Major William M. Sleeth Family.
Kansas 1875 Census Creswell Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
William Sleeth 41 m w Ohio, Tennessee
Mary Sleeth 27 f w Ohio, Ohio
Maggie Sleeth 1/12 f w Kansas
David Sleeth 49 m w Ohio, Tennessee
David Sleeth, the father of William M. Sleeth, was born in Londonderry, County Donegal, Ireland, in 1800, and was an infant when his parents, in 1801, came to America and located in Guernsey County, Ohio. David Sleeth spent his active life as a farmer in Ohio and died at Cambridge, Ohio, in 1849. He married Margaret McCracken, who was born in County Donegal, Ireland, in 1801, and died at Cambridge, Ohio, in 1881. David and Margaret had two children, David Sleeth Jr. and William Sleeth.
William M. Sleeth was born near Cambridge in Guernsey County, Ohio, in 1832. His boyhood and youth were spent as a farmer and rural resident.
In 1861, he enlisted in Company A, Seventy-eighth Ohio Regiment as a second Lieutenant. Sleeth was promoted to First Lieutenant in 1863. He was detailed as acting commissary of Subsistence of the Third division of the Seventeenth Army Corps with the temporary rank of Major. He participated in the engagements of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Resaca, Kennesaw Mountain, Atlanta, and Sherman's march to the sea.
[As noted later, Major Sleeth was under John A. Logan for three months during the Civil War. See Arkansas City Republican, October 4, 1884.]
[From Civil War Dictionary by Mark M. Boatner III.]
LOGAN, John Alexander. Union General 1826-86, Ill. A lawyer, he fought in the Mexican War and then served in the state legislature and US Congress. He was a Democrat and believed by many to be a Southern sympathizer. Although not in the army, he marched to 1st Bull Run with a Michigan regiment and was then commissioned Col. 31st Ill. 18 Sept 1861. He was wounded leading his regiment at Fort Donelson and commissioned B.G. USV 21 March 1862. He commanded, in the Army of the Tennessee, 1st Brig., 1st Div. (19 April-July1862); 1st Brig., 1st Div., Dist. of Jackson (July-September 1862); and Dist. Of Jackson (September 1862). As Maj. Gen. USV (29 November 1862), he commanded 3d Div. Right Wing, XIII, Tenn. (1 Nov.-18 Dec. 1862) and 3rd Div., XVII (18 Dec. 1862-20 July 1863) during the Vicksburg campaign as well as Sept. 17-November 1863. He commanded the XV Corps 11 Dec. 1863-22 July 1864, succeeding McPherson as commander of the Army of the Tennessee. He was, however, relieved by Lincoln five days later upon Sherman’s recommendation. The latter, while feeling that Logan was a first-rate combat soldier, said that he expressed deep contempt for the necessary though tedious logistical preparation of an army. He returned to the XV Corps, leading it 27 July-23 Sept. 1864 and 8 Jan.-23 May 1865 during the remainder of the Atlanta campaign and on the March to the Sea and through the Carolinas. He again commanded the Army of the Tennessee 19 May-1 Aug. 1865. Resigning 17 Aug. 1865, he re-entered politics as a Republican, serving as US Congressman and Senator for many years. He was the unsuccessful nominee for V.P. with Blaine against Cleveland in 1884. He was one of the organizers of the G.A.R. and was three times its president; helped found the Society of the Army of the Tennessee, and began the observance of Memorial Day. Wrote The Volunteer Soldier of America (1887).
Sleeth mustered out in 1865. Returned to Ohio. Then Moved to Tennessee.
Mr. Sleeth mustered out in 1865 and returned to his home state where he taught school for a year. He moved to Fayetteville, Tennessee, where he engaged in the lumber business for three years. There he met A. A. Newman and T. H. McLaughlin, Arkansas City pioneers, who were in business there. Going back to his native town of Cambridge, he married Mary B. Hutchinson on September 6, 1869.
[Note: Mistakes were made relative to Sleeth in some accounts pertaining to him. I have gone digging for correct data and believe the following reflects his movements better in the early years. MAW September 16, 2000.]
[Letter dated October 20, 1869, to Major Sleeth’s brother, David, from Emporia.]
Brother Dave: We arrived here on the next Tuesday after we left Mr. Hastings, being one week on the way. Had to stop at Nashville and then got a ticket to St. Louis and our baggage checked to that place but when we got there our baggage had not come with us. I then got tickets to Topeka and ordered the baggage to be sent to that place as soon as it came up and it did not come to Topeka till Saturday, and then we had to remain there till Monday.
We have had quite a winter since we came here. Monday night it snowed—about two inches on the ground, last Tuesday morning, and the weather has been very cold ever since. Last night it froze pretty smart. It is much warmer today. It has been the coldest weather that I ever felt in any country in the middle of October. The citizens here make great apologies about the cold. They say they never saw the like before. They hold out the idea that this is a very mild climate, especially to persons coming from the north.
I found Newman, Houghton, and company here. They are in the dry goods and grocery business, have two houses, and are doing a very heavy trade. Newman told me that Houghton and himself had cleared about $4,000 apiece in the last year.
I also found Jim Harris at Topeka. He used to work for Bill Johnson and was in the 78th O. V. I. during the war. He said he had been here about a month. He came out to look at the country and was so well pleased he was going to stay. Since the war he has been foreman in Blandy’s machine shop at Zanesville. He is going down to Wichita on the Arkansas river next week and I expect to go with him.
I like the appearance of the country very much but timber is very scarce, none at all, only on the streams. In many places you might look as far as you could see in every direction and not discover a stick or twig of any kind. But the land is the richest and prettiest I ever saw and they have the finest crops of corn I ever saw grow in any country. Don’t think I saw any (unless it was sod corn) that would yield less than 50 bushels per acre and much of it 75 or 100, and they claim to make from 20 to 45 bushels of wheat per acre and other productions in proportion.
There is a great immigration here and the country is just full of land buyers and speculators and land is going up rapidly. We had to travel 45 miles by stage and the country we passed over I don’t think one acre in every two hundred had ever been cultivated, but it was all taken up and held by speculators and they ask from $2 to $10 per acre for it according to quality, etc. Many are going farther south and west.
I think this a very good point, even better than Topeka, the capital of the state. Two railroads will soon be built to this place and both very important ones. And others are in contemplation. I have no doubt but this will be the railroad center of the state. Property, land, etc., is advancing very rapidly here. Yesterday in conversation with a real estate agent, he advised me to go into the stock business. Men can follow it and not own a foot of land. Pasture and hay is free to everybody. But when he found out that I was a mill man, he had a chance by which I could make $10,000 in one year. He had a farm of 284 acres of which 100 acres had the finest timber in the country. He asked $35 per acre for it and claimed that timber land would make 35,000 feet of lumber and 60 cords of wood per acre. Lumber is worth from $3 to $5 per hundred feet, and wood is about $6 per cord. He would engage it all at $5 per cord.
Everybody is busy here and all appear satisfied and say they are doing well. All with whom I have talked say the milling business is the best of the country—they buy wheat at from eight cents to one dollar and grind it and sell the flour at $5 and $6 per hundred pounds.
I wish you were here. I think we would do much better here now than any place else I have been. Harris has been talking to me about milling. I did not give him much satisfaction. McLaughlin is here and is going to stay. I presume we will stay in Kansas too, for a while at least, and I am very anxious to get at some business. Maybe I am too anxious.
Newspaper articles show Sleeth was in El Dorado before coming to Arkansas City in 1870. He and his brother, David, got claims near Arkansas City. Major Sleeth also erected a residence at 325 South Summit Street in Arkansas City.
MAW SEPTEMBER 18, 2000
[NOTE: RKW DETERMINED THAT MAJOR SLEETH’S CLAIM OF 160 ACRES NEAR ARKANSAS CITY WOULD NOW BE BOUNDED BY BIRCH AVENUE ON THE NORTH, F STREET ON THE WEST, CHESTNUT AVENUE ON THE SOUTH AND GREEN FARM ROAD ON THE EAST.]
RKW found that the following story (which came from an oral source) was not true.
Albert A. Newman was also was a very early settler. After coming to Arkansas City, Mr. Newman ordered a grist mill and a saw mill to be delivered from the east. When they were delivered, they were to be placed at the Walnut River on East Kansas Avenue. The saw mill became mired on the crude dirt road and Newman tried to extract it for two weeks. Newman became so disgusted that he sold it to William Sleeth who extracted it.
Little information has been gathered relative to Sleeth in the early years...
Major Sleeth erected his saw mill east of Chestnut Avenue on the bank of the Walnut River and engaged in the lumber business before the end of 1870. This saw mill was water powered and also the first saw mill operating in Cowley County. His brother, David Sleeth, was a partner in the saw mill. David Sleeth took a claim northeast of Major Wm. Sleeth.
Major Sleeth remained in the milling business for two years before selling in 1872 so he could spend more time farming and following other pursuits.
Mistakes occur relative to first bank Sleeth was involved with.
The following is correct...
Albert A. Newman helped to organize the second bank, the Cowley County Bank. This bank became the first organized under state laws. Newman was the President of the Cowley County Bank from 1874 for a number of years. It appears that Sleeth took over as President of bank in 1878. A. A. Newman was one of the founders of the Home National Bank, when it was created later.
An ad placed by the "Cowley County Bank" in 1876 follows...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 26, 1876.
COWLEY COUNTY BANK, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
A. A. Newman, President. W. M. Sleeth, Vice President.
H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
Does a General Banking Business. Interest Allowed on Time Deposits. Domestic and Foreign Exchange Bought and Sold. School Bonds a Specialty. Collections promptly attended to.
Directors: A. A. Newman, Wm. M. Sleeth, T. H. McLaughlin, H. O. Meigs,
R. C. Haywood.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 9, 1876. At the annual meeting of the stockholders of the Cowley County Bank yesterday W. M. Sleeth, T. H. McLaughlin, R. C. Haywood, H. O. Meigs, and A. A. Newman were elected Directors for the year: A. A. Newman, President; W. M. Sleeth, Vice President; H. P. Farrar, Cashier and Secretary.
By 1878 Sleeth and Farrar were in charge of Cowley County Bank...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 18, 1878. Front Page.
ARKANSAS CITY.
[Special Correspondent Kansas City Times.]
The Cowley County Bank is a safe and reliable institution, presided over by Major Wm. Sleeth, with Capt. H. P. Farrar, as Cashier.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.
List of Advertising Business Houses of Arkansas City
Cowley County Bank: W. M. Sleeth, President; H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
First National Bank of Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 11, 1885.
The following are the directors of the First National Bank of Arkansas City: A. B. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, J. P. Johnson, F. W. Farrar, Wm. Sleeth, and H. P. Farrar.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 19, 1885.
W. M. SLEETH, President. ESTABLISHED 1872. H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK, -OF ARKANSAS CITY-
(SUCCESSOR TO COWLEY COUNTY BANK.)
YOUR BUSINESS SOLICITED.
DIRECTORS: A. B. JOHNSON, FRED W. FARRAR, A. D. PRESCOTT,
J. P. JOHNSON, W. M. SLEETH, H. P. FARRAR.
The very last change I had in name of bank and officers follows...MAW 9/11/2000...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 19, 1887.
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK, NO. 3360.
WM. SLEETH, Pres.
CALVIN DEAN, Vice-Pres.
H. P. FARRAR, Cashier.
F. W. FARRAR, Asst. Cashier.
PAID UP CAPITAL: $125,000.
SURPLUS: $15,000.
UNDIVIDED PROFITS: $10,000.
[NEWSPAPER ITEMS STARTS ON PAGE 7.]
[GO TO PAGE 28 FOR BANK ROBBERY IN 1878.]
RKW picked up the following information concerning second bank, part of which is incorrect!
In 1883, Sleeth erected the banks’ building which is at the northwest corner of Summit Street and Fifth Avenue. This building was later occupied by the Citizens State Bank and is now occupied by the Union State Bank.
The following contains the facts about erection of the second bank...
[COWLEY COUNTY BANK.]
Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1884.
COWLEY COUNTY BANK.
The Finest Bank Building in Southern Kansas.
Last Monday morning the Cowley County Bank, one of the oldest and most substantial financial institutions of this county, opened up in their new building on the northwest corner of Summit Street and Fifth Avenue. The progress of this building has been watched with unflagging interest by all of our citizens, as from the first it gave promise of being the finest thing of its kind in the southwest, and is something of which our city may justly feel proud. It is a two-story building with basement, built of the finest pressed brick and dressed stone, surmounted by a tower twenty feet in height, the whole presenting a most imposing appearance. Every detail of its construction points to superior workmanship, good judgment, and taste, with a most admirable arrangement for the transaction of the bank’s business and for the accommodation of those renting the office departments upstairs and down.
The basement (half of which is above ground) consists of two large, well lighted and ventilated rooms, with none of the drawbacks of an ordinary basement. One of these rooms is already rented. The first floor proper consists of three rooms. The front room is 25 x 37 feet, and is used for the public business of the bank. The interior finish of this room is in keeping with the general neatness of the entire building, the office furniture, counters, etc., being of cherry wood finished in finest French plate and ornamental tops. In the southeast corner of this room is a neat alcove compartment handsomely carpeted and separated from the main room by a heavy, low railing, for the accommodation of customers desiring to wait a few minutes. In the rear of the main room is the bank’s private room, 25 x 18 feet, and adjoining this room, with its entrance on Fifth Avenue, is an office room, 20 x 25 feet, which will be for rent when finished. The second story contains seven commodious office rooms, which for the use of professional men have no equal in this county.
Altogether it is the finest bank edifice in Southern Kansas, not excepting those of Wichita even, and speaks volumes for the credit, stability, and enterprise of Messrs. Farrar and Sleeth. The expenses of its construction so far has been about $12,000, in return for which outlay these gentlemen have now a building that would do credit to any city in the land, and one whose rental will bring in a handsome revenue.
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
Walnut Valley Times, Friday, March 4, 1870.
Messrs. Sleeth Bro.’s have located their saw mill at the north end of Main street, on West Branch (in Eldorado). Their machinery is all new and in good running order. We speak for them a full share of the public patronage.
Walnut Valley Times, March 18, 1870.
Our friend, Wm. M. Sleeth, is taking a trip to the mouth of the Walnut. We are afraid the Creswell fever will "get him down" there, and his mill too.
Walnut Valley Times, April 1, 1870.
Mr. Wm. M. Sleeth has gone to move his family to Eldorado.
Excerpt...
Emporia News, April 1, 1870.
FROM CRESWELL. [Header had only one "s".]
Cresswell is just beginning to assume the form of a town. The following are some of the latest sensations: Major Sleeth [they had Sleath] & Co. will move their new steam saw mill from El Dorado to Cresswell by the middle of May, and propose to add a shingle machine at once.
Daniel Beedy, of Emporia, will put in a water saw mill, shingle machine, and planing mill this summer and add a flouring mill as soon as there is a prospect of having anything to grind. This will be on the Walnut one mile northeast of town.
Two stores will be opened at once, one a grocery and provision store, the other a general assortment. A hardware and tinware and a drug store will be opened by June 1st.
Negotiations are now in progress which will undoubtedly give us a weekly newspaper and one of the best job offices in southern Kansas, within the next sixty days.
A solid rock-bottomed ford has lately been discovered across the Arkansas River, one half mile below the mouth of the Walnut. This we think will when improved make one of the best water-powers in the State; and now it gives us a good ford in low water and an opportunity to a ferry boat in high water, or perhaps in any stage.
The State Legislature at its last session ordered that a State road be opened from Emporia to Cresswell by the most direct route by the first of August next.
These are only a portion of the enterprises now on foot, but will serve to give you some idea of our progress and prospects. The weather has been fine most of the spring, and building, plowing, etc., is being vigorously pushed. Three buffalo were seen from Cresswell last week feeding on the bluffs south of the Arkansas. But enough for this time.
Respectfully, G. HYDE NORTON.
Excerpts...
Emporia News, April 8, 1870.
[Written for THE NEWS.]
FROM CRESWELL.
Creswell is named as a point upon four chartered lines of railroad, viz: The Walnut Valley Branch of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe road; the Preston, Salina & Denver road; the Emporia & Holden road; and the Arkansas Valley, or Fort Smith & Hays City road. It is also confidently expected that this will be the point of crossing for the Fort Scott & Santa Fe road. The Legislature, at its recent session, ordered the immediate survey of a State road, by the most direct route, from Emporia to Creswell.
The company have determined to spare no expense or effort to make Creswell the metropolis of the Arkansas Valley. The following are among the enterprises already inaugurated.
Sleeth & Co., of El Dorado, have contracted to put their steam saw-mill and a shingle-machine in operation at Creswell by the 15th of May.
Daniel Beedy, now resident at Emporia, has contracted to build a grist-mill, saw-mill, and planing-mill upon the Creswell water-power; work to commence by July 1st, 1870.
G. H. Norton & Co. have opened a general stock of groceries, dry goods, boots and shoes, which they pledge themselves to sell at El Dorado prices.
[PETITION: FORMATION OF NEW COUNTY FROM BUTLER/COWLEY.]
Walnut Valley Times, April 22, 1870.
We the undersigned, voters of Butler County, Kansas, hereby express our willingness to aid all in our power in the formation of a new county out of the territory now composing the counties of Butler and Cowley; and to that end we will vote to spare from the county of Butler a fair, equal, and just proportion of our territory to form said new county, taking into consideration the arable land in the county.
D. H. Sleeth was one of the parties to sign this petition.
Walnut Valley Times, May 13, 1870.
Sleeth’s mill has gone to Creswell.
Excerpt...
[LETTER FROM CRESWELL: T. A. WILKINSON.]
Walnut Valley Times, June 3, 1870. Front Page.
[Correspondence of the Times.]
The teams, we understand, have gone to your town to aid Mr. Sleeth in bringing down his mill, and we hope soon to manufacture our own lumber, which will certainly enhance the energy already manifested among businessmen here.
Excerpt...
Emporia News, June 10, 1870.
ARKANSAS CITY.
It now has a splendid steam mill in successful operation, owned by Major Sleeth, late of El Dorado. A shingle manufactory will be in running order in a very few days.
Excerpt from article written by Max Fawcett...
Emporia News, June 24, 1870.
FROM ARKANSAS CITY.
ARKANSAS CITY, (formerly Creswell), June 9th, 1870.
EDITORS NEWS: We have had more rain here this spring than we have needed, but of course it is all right—"better too much than too little"—but at times it makes things considerably juicy. Our gardens and unfenced small fields of corn are growing finely. The Arkansas River is rising gradually, caused by the snow melting at its sources in the Rocky Mountains, but it is still fordable. Things are livelier here now since the arrival of Sleeth & Co.’s mill. We will soon have one or two more mills to supply the increasing demand for lumber. There are six nearly finished houses on the town site now, and several others commenced, including Col. Wolsey’s [Woolsey’s] hotel.
Excerpt from article written by Max Fawcett...
Emporia News, July 15, 1870.
ARKANSAS CITY ITEMS.
ARKANSAS CITY, COWLEY CO., KANSAS, July 6th, 1870.
The following are among the more than fifty houses now being built, or under contract to be built in Arkansas City.
Norton & Co., a dry goods and grocery store.
Mr. Sleeth, one neat residence finished and another commenced.
[REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS.]
Winfield Courier, August 7, 1874.
Real Estate Transfers.
The following are the transfers of real estate, as handed us by Curns and Manser of this city.
William M. Sleeth and wife to Rev. David Thompson, lots 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, Block 42, Arkansas City.
Excerpt...
[ITEMS FROM THE TRAVELER.]
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1874.
Major Sleeth, Mr. Maxwell, and a number of others have corn on the Arkansas that will yield forty bushels to the acre.
Excerpts from long article...
Winfield Courier, October 7, 1875.
THE TICKET.
The ticket nominated last Saturday by the Republican County Convention is, all things, considered, one of the strongest and best ever nominated in the county.
The most important office by far is that of Commissioner. For this office we have three gentlemen in every respect perfectly capable of managing the affairs of the county.
William White, of Rock, although still young, is a man of mature judgment, good qualifications, and with a little experience will make a splendid Commissioner.
Of Mr. Sleeth we know but little, but his friends in whom we have full confidence, assure us that he is a gentleman of acknowledged ability and experience, who will bring to the discharge of his duties that practical business knowledge which is so essential a requisite in a County Commissioner.
R. F. Burden is the present Chairman of the County Board, whose services are before the public. He is a gentleman of good heart and sound judgment, and with an experience of two years cannot fail to give entire satisfaction, at least as much so as mortal man could give on the Board of County Commissioners of Cowley County.
We have neither the time nor space this week which we would like to devote to the different candidates, but will have more to say in the future.
REPUBLICAN TICKET.
FOR COMMISSIONERS:
1ST DIST. - WILLIAM WHITE OF ROCK.
2ND DIST. - WILLIAM SLEETH OF CRESWELL.
3RD DIST. - R. F. BURDEN OF WINDSOR.
CENTENNIAL ISSUE.
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.
ELECTED. EXPIRED.
T. A. BLANCHARD Nov. 8, 1870. Jan. 8, 1872.
G. H. NORTON Nov. 8, 1870. Jan. 8, 1872.
E. SIMPSON Nov. 8, 1870. Jan. 8, 1872.
FRANK COX Nov. 7, 1871. Jan. 11, 1874.
O. C. SMITH Nov. 7, 1871. Jan. 11, 1874.
J. D. MAURER Nov. 7, 1871. Jan. 11, 1874.
R. F. BURDEN Nov. 4, 1873. Jan. 10, 1876.
M. S. ROSEBERRY Nov. 4, 1873. Jan. 10, 1876.
JOHN MANLEY Nov. 4, 1873. Jan. 10, 1876.
R. F. BURDEN Nov. 2, 1875.
WM. WHITE Nov. 2, 1875.
W. M. SLEETH Nov. 2, 1875.
Following covers first day of meeting by County Commissioners...
Winfield Courier, January 13, 1876.
Commissioners’ Proceedings.
OFFICE OF COUNTY CLERK.
Winfield, Kansas, January 10, 1876.
New Board of County Commissioners met in regular session. Present: R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, and Wm. White.
On motion of W. M. Sleeth, R. F. Burden was elected chairman of the board for the ensuing year.
J. S. Hunt, trustee of Winfield Township, appeared and asked the board to repair a bridge built by Winfield Township across the Walnut River south of Winfield. The board, after being fully advised in the matter, agreed to lay the matter over for the present.
W. B. Turner appeared and asked the board to remit his personal property tax for the year 1876, and after being fully advised of the facts in the matter, the board agreed to lay the matter over until the next session of the board.
Petition of R. D. Ford and others, of Vernon Township, for section line road presented, and the board being satisfied that all the resident claim owners had agreed to the location of said road, and that said road is practicable, the same is hereby ordered opened, recorded, and platted; said road to be 50 feet wide.
E. B. Kager, County Treasurer of Cowley County, appeared and asked the board to revoke an order made at the last session of the board requiring the County Attorney to commence an action against said Kager for a fine as provided for in section 6, chapter 8, special laws 1874. The board after being fully advised in the matter agreed to revoke said order upon the following vote: W. M. Sleeth and Wm. White voting aye to the proposition to revoke and R. F. Burden voting nay to said proposition.
The board hereby agrees to appropriate enough money out of the general county fund to pay for the abstract of entries of lands required by law, to be obtained by the county after the 1st day of March, 1876; and the County Treasurer is hereby ordered to pay the amount of money necessary to obtain said abstract.
On motion of W. M. Sleeth, board adjourned till tomorrow at 9 o’clock A. M.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 26, 1876.
COWLEY COUNTY BANK, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
A. A. NEWMAN, PRESIDENT.
W. M. SLEETH, VICE PRESIDENT.
H. P. FARRAR, CASHIER.
Does a General Banking Business. Interest Allowed on Time Deposits. Domestic and Foreign Exchange Bought and Sold. School Bonds a Specialty.
Collections promptly attended to.
DIRECTORS: A. A. NEWMAN, WM. M. SLEETH, T. H. McLAUGHLIN, H. O. MEIGS, R. C HAYWOOD.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 9, 1876.
At the annual meeting of the stockholders of the Cowley County Bank yesterday W. M. Sleeth, T. H. McLaughlin, R. C. Haywood, H. O. Meigs, and A. A. Newman were elected Directors for the year: A. A. Newman, President; W. M. Sleeth, Vice President; H. P. Farrar, Cashier and Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 23, 1876.
PRAIRIE FIRE. The grass north of town was set on fire last Friday, and spread to such a width before it was noticed that it could not be checked until it had burned six stacks of hay and about one mile of Major Sleeth’s fence. Other fires have occurred east of the Walnut, burning over a wide scope of country.
Cowley County Democrat, April 6, 1876.
Arkansas City Items.
The school is having a vacation, and Prof. Hulse and pupils are having a few weeks recreation.
The Arkansas River is higher than it has ever been since the white man settled in its valleys. In some places it only lacks a few feet of running over its banks, and is still rising. It is thought if it rises much more, the bridge south of town will be materially damaged.
After some little excitement, caused by the whiskey ring of this place, the following officers were elected to the respective offices.
Mayor: S. P. Channell.
Councilmen: T. H. McLaughlin, W. M. Sleeth, H. D. Kellogg, Dr. J. A. Loomis, J. I. Mitchell.
Police Judge: Judge Christian.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 8, 1876.
MAJOR SLEETH is confined to his duties at the Cowley County Bank as Vice President.
[COUNTY OFFICIALS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 22, 1876.
Judge 13th Judicial District: W. P. Campbell.
Board of County Commissioners: R. F. Burden, Robert White, Wm. Sleeth.
County Clerk: M. G. Troup.
County Treasurer: E. B. Kager.
Deputy Treasurer: Jas. L. Huey.
Probate Judge: H. D. Gans.
Registrar of Deeds: E. P. Kinne.
Supt. Pub. Inst.: T. A. Wilkinson.
Sheriff: R. L. Walker.
Coroner: Sim. Moore.
County Attorney: A. J. Pyburn.
Clerk District Court: E. S. Bedilion.
County Surveyor: W. W. Walton.
Examining Surgeon U. S. Pensioners: W. Q. Mansfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 29, 1876.
FIRE. Some clothing and other articles took fire at Mr. Coombs’ house, last Saturday, and for awhile required considerable exertion to subdue it. Mr. Coombs is living on Major Sleeth’s farm, in what is known as Pat Somers’ house.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 5, 1876.
The election of city officers passed off very quietly last Monday, with the following result.
FOR MAYOR: S. P. CHANNELL, 49 VOTES.
H. D. KELLOGG, 24 VOTES.
FOR COUNCILMEN:
T. H. McLAUGHLIN, 48 VOTES.
W. M. SLEETH, 48 VOTES.
H. D. KELLOGG, 48 VOTES.
J. A. LOOMIS, 45 VOTES.
J. I. MITCHELL, 49 VOTES.
R. HOFFMASTER, 26 VOTES.
JAS. BENEDICT, 27 VOTES.
L. C. CURRIER, 21 VOTES.
L. C. WOOD, 23 VOTES.
FRANK SPEERS, 24 VOTES.
I. H. BONSALL, 1 VOTE.
FOR POLICE JUDGE:
JAMES CHRISTIAN, 71 VOTES.
Whole number of votes cast: 73.
The city officers now are: S. P. Channell, Mayor; T. H. McLaughlin, W. M. Sleeth, Dr. H. D. Kellogg, Dr. J. A. Loomis, and James I. Mitchell, Councilmen; Jas. Christian, Police Judge.
Excerpts from meeting...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1876. Front Page.
Full Report of All the Business Transacted by the Board of County Commissioners Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, April 10, 11, and 12.
COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE,
WINFIELD, KANSAS, April 10, 1876.
Board met in regular session. Present, R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, Commissioners; A. J. Pyburn, County Attorney, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk. Journal of last regular session read and adopted.
Bills were presented and disposed of as follows.
W. M. Sleeth, Commissioner: $15.00
Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1876.
The Arkansas River Boat.
Mr. W. M. Sleeth received a letter last week from the parties in Ohio who are building the light draught boat for the Arkansas River, stating that they had employed five additional men, and were pushing the work as rapidly as possible. Mr. Hoyt is now in the East, and will complete all the necessary arrangements soon for the trial trip. Mr. Graverock, of Kansas City, Civil Engineer of the M. K. & T. Railway Company, paid us a visit of several days this week, working up a project for two tow boats to make regular trips from St. Louis. He also visited Wichita, where he received encouragement from some of the most prominent citizens, and a promise of aid towards the project. There is enough corn in Cowley County to load a boat all summer, besides wheat, potatoes, and general produce. The matter has received considerable attention of late and will be thoroughly tested during this year.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1876.
Railroad Meeting.
Last Saturday we had the pleasure of meeting Judge N. B. Cartwell and J. C. Pinney, of Longton, Kansas, and M. S. Manwell, of Greenfield Township, Elk County. They came over to Cowley to work up an interest in, and to organize a local company, for the purpose of securing aid to build a branch of the L. L. & G. railroad from Independence to Arkansas City, via Elk River. After talking with our citizens in a called meeting, of which Major Sleeth was Chairman and Joseph Sherburne, Secretary, a party was invited to attend the meeting at Winfield in the afternoon, where Directors of the local company were elected to meet at Canola, Elk County, today. Rev. Fleming and Wm. Sleeth were selected as Directors, from this place, Rev. Platter and M. L. Robinson of Winfield, and Tisdale and Lazette were to elect one each. There are to be thirteen Directors in all: Six in Cowley, six in Elk, and one in Montgomery. After the meeting held at Canola today, we shall know more of it. The line as proposed, is the one needed most, and would meet with more favor in this county than any other proposed route, as it unites the eastern portion of the county with the west. The L. L. & G. Company gives the assurance that if the road bed is graded and culverts put in, they will iron and operate the road. As is generally known, the above company is bankrupt, but the bondholders of the road give the assurance that with what capital they possess and what can be induced, they will build the line. From present indications Cowley County will lend aid to but one project, and that will be the first practical one submitted to the people.
Winfield Courier, April 20, 1876.
Maj. Sleeth and Rev. Fleming were sent to the Canola railroad meeting from Arkansas City.
Excerpt from article...
Winfield Courier, April 20, 1876.
From the Railroad Meeting.
CANOLA, KANSAS, April 18th, 1876.
EDITOR COURIER: The delegates selected in Cowley County met at this point today with the Elk County men, and a railroad company was organized. L. B. Fleming of Arkansas City was selected as Chairman, and R. C. Story, of Lazette, was made Secretary of the meeting. S. M. Fall, E. P. Young, J. E. Platter, M. L. Robinson, S. B. Fleming, and W. M. Sleeth were the delegates from Cowley County. The title "Parsons, Walnut Valley and Southwestern," was given the road, and a committee of three was appointed to draft a charter for the same. By vote of the meeting the capital stock was placed $1,500,000 dollars, and shares at fifty dollars each. The road is to be in at Parsons, run west to Independence, thence to Longton, Elk Falls, Greenfield, Lazette, Tisdale, Winfield, and terminate at Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
COUNCIL ROOMS,
ARKANSAS CITY, April 19, 1876.
Called meeting. Present, S. P. Channell, Mayor; H. D. Kellogg, J. A. Loomis, J. I. Mitchell, Councilmen.
Moved and seconded that Dr. J. A. Loomis be elected President of the Council; carried.
I. H. Bonsall was recommended as City Clerk by S. P. Channell, and confirmed by unanimous vote of Council.
E. D. Eddy was elected Treasurer by a unanimous vote.
The following committees were appointed.
Finance Committee: T. H. McLaughlin, W. M. Sleeth.
Committee on Ways and Means: Dr. Kellogg, J. I. Mitchell, J. A. Loomis.
Committee on Public Improvements: T. H. McLaughlin, Dr. H. D. Kellogg, J. I. Mitchell.
Adjourned to meet at 8 o’clock Thursday evening, April 20th, to receive report on sidewalks from Committee on Public Improvements, and all other business of a general nature that may be brought forward.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
MAJOR SLEETH and Rev. Fleming attended a meeting of the Parsons, Elk River and Walnut Valley railroad Co. at Tisdale yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876. Front Page.
Proceedings of a Railroad Meeting Held
At Canola, April, 1876.
The meeting was organized by the election of Mr. Fleming, of Arkansas City, Chairman.
The object of the meeting having been stated, a committee of three was appointed, consisting of N. B. Cartmell and M. S. Manwell, of Elk County, and Mr. Platter, of Cowley, to examine credentials of directors.
The following directors were present.
Longton: N. B. Cartmell and J. C. Pinney.
Elk City: Mr. Wm. Wright.
Elk Falls: R. R. Roberts and L. J. Johnson.
Wild Cat: H. E. Hitchinson.
Greenfield: A. A. Toby.
Lazette: Mr. Fall.
Tisdale: Mr. Young.
Winfield: Messrs. Robinson and Platter.
Arkansas City: Messrs. Fleming and Sleeth.
On motion, a committee of three was appointed to draft a charter. The committee consisted of N. B. Cartmell, L. J. Johnson, and Mr. Platter.
After careful consideration the charter as reported was adopted and signed by the directors and forwarded to the Secretary of State for record.
The company is to be known as the "Parsons, Walnut Valley & South-Western Railway Company." The points to be traversed in Elk County are the Townships of Longton, Elk Falls, Wild Cat and Greenfield. The objective points are Arkansas City, via Lazette, Tisdale, and Winfield in Cowley County.
The prospects for the early construction of the road are considered by the directors to be very flattering.
We are indebted to Mr. L. J. Johnson for the above. We shall probably have a more lengthy report from the Secretary for publication next week. Elk County Ledger.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
STEAMBOAT.
W. M. Sleeth received a letter from Mr. Hoyt, written at Zanesville, Ohio, in which he stated he had been detained longer than he expected, and would not be ready to start again before two weeks. The boat was built at Plainfield, and had to be taken to Zanesville for final completion. It is 90 feet long, 30 feet beam, and has 19 feet deck, and three foot hole. It draws from eight to nine inches of water, and is capable of carrying fifty tons on two feet of water. The first cargo brought up will probably be salt and lumber.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1876.
FROM THE STEAMBOAT.
Major Sleeth has just heard from Mr. Hoyt again, on the steamboat question. The letter was dated Parkersburg, West Virginia, June 5th, and stated they were coming along all right, until near Gallipolis, Ohio, where the wheel received some injury, and they were compelled to stop six days for repairs. They expect to reach Little Rock, Arkansas, by July 1st, or within the next two weeks. Boats run to Little Rock and Fort Smith, without difficulty, and the only experiment will be from those points to this place, during low waters. When the river is full, a boat of any ordinary size could run on the Arkansas. This enterprise offers the only outlet for our immense grain crop, and is looked forward to with great anxiety by all.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS meet Monday, July 3rd. It is a regular meeting, and will probably last several days, as they will have considerable to attend to. The Commissioners are R. F. Burden, near Lazette; Robert White, of Rock Creek; and William Sleeth, of Arkansas City.
Winfield Courier, August 10, 1876.
Delegates.
The following is a list of the delegates to the republican county convention, from the nine townships heard from.
Winfield: R. L. Walker, James Kelly, E. P. Kinne, M. G. Troup, T. B. Myres, C. C. Pierce, Nels Newell, Jno. Mentch, E. S. Torrance, and A. B. Lemmon.
Creswell: I. H. Bonsall, W. M. Sleeth, O. P. Houghton, Geo. McIntire, and Dr. Hughes.
Richland: D. Maher, M. C. Headrick, Alex Kelly, and Dr. Phelps.
Vernon: J. S. Woolley, Fred Schwantes, and J. W. Millspaugh.
Beaver: T. W. Morris and L. Bonnewell.
Pleasant Valley: C. J. Brane and S. H. Sparks.
Nennescah: A. B. Odell and Wm. Bartlow.
Liberty: Sam Pitt and E. C. Clay.
Omnia: E. A. Henthorn.
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Winfield Courier, August 17, 1876. Editorial Page.
COUNTY CONVENTION.
The Republican county convention convened at the Courthouse, in Winfield, on Saturday, August 12th, at 1 o’clock p.m., and was called to order by A. B. Lemmon, chairman of the Republican county central committee. R. C. Story was elected temporary chairman and James Kelly secretary. A committee on credentials was appointed, consisting of Messrs. E. S. Torrance, J. W. Tull, A. B. Odell, T. R. Bryan, and S. M. Jarvis. The committee reported the following persons as having been duly elected as delegates and alternates to the convention.
Creswell: Delegates, I. H. Bonsall, Nathan Hughes, Geo. McIntire, O. P. Houghton, H. D. Kellogg, and Wm. M. Sleeth. Alternates, A. A. Newman, R. A. Houghton, T. C. Bird, W. H. Speers, Elisha Parker, and W. S. Hunt.
[HAYES AND WHEELER CLUB.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 6, 1876.
A meeting was called to form a Hayes and Wheeler club on Friday evening, September 1, at E. B. Kager’s office. Wm. Sleeth was chosen chairman of the meeting. On motion S. P. Channell was elected President of the club; C. M. Scott, Vice President; C. R. Mitchell, Secretary; I. H. Bonsall, Corresponding Secretary; W. S. Hunt, Treasurer.
Wm. Sleeth, E. R. Thompson, and H. P. Farrar were appointed as committee on constitution and by laws.
On motion E. B. Kager, Geo. Allen, Wm. Sleeth, A. W. Patterson, and W. D. Mowry were appointed an executive committee.
On motion E. R. Thompson, H. G. Bentley, and W. D. Mowry were appointed a committee on music, with power to form a glee club.
Moved and seconded that the proceedings of this meeting be published in the TRAVELER; also a notice of the next meeting of the club, and an invitation extended to all Republicans in the country adjoining to join the club.
After listening to remarks from Messrs. Kager, Scott, Rev. Thompson and others, the meeting adjourned, to meet Thursday night, September 7. S. P. CHANNELL, Pres.
C. R. MITCHELL, Sec’y.
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Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876. Editorial Page.
PROCEEDINGS OF REPUBLICAN CONVENTION.
Pursuant to call of the County Central Committee, the delegates to the county convention met in the courthouse, in Winfield, on Saturday, Sept. 16th, at 11 o’clock a.m., and organized by electing Capt. J. S. Hunt temporary chairman and C. H. Eagin temporary secretary.
On motion the convention adjourned to meet at 2 o’clock p.m.
2 p.m.; convention called to order; Capt. Hunt in the chair.
The committee on credentials being called submitted the following report: Your committee on credentials find that the following named gentlemen were duly elected as delegates to this convention, and all are entitled to seats therein.
Creswell: N. Hughes, I. H. Bonsall, Geo. McIntire, O. P. Houghton, H. Kellogg, and W. M. Sleeth.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 29, 1876.
MRS. SLEETH returned from Cambridge, Ohio, last Thursday, after a visit of many weeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 24, 1877.
VISITING. Major Sleeth left yesterday morning to visit his friends in Illinois and Ohio. He will be absent about a month.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877.
WM. SLEETH returned from a visit to Ohio, last Friday.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1877.
MAJOR SLEETH and T. H. McLAUGHLIN visited Elk County last week on matters pertaining to the narrow gauge railway from Kansas City.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
CITY ELECTION.
The election of city officers took place last Monday, quietly and peaceably, with the following result.
Mayor: Dr. Kellogg.
Police Judge: Jas. Christian.
Councilmen: James Benedict, H. P. Farrar, James I. Mitchell, H. Godehard, I. H. Bonsall.
There was another ticket in the field, composed of Wm. Sleeth for Mayor, Judge Christian for Police Judge, and A. A. Newman, O. P. Houghton, E. D. Eddy, J. A. Loomis, and J. T. Shepard, for Councilmen; but as one was composed of, or was generally understood to be "license" men, the issue was made "license" and "anti-license," and the vote stood 70 for the former and 41 for the latter. Both tickets were composed of the best men of the community.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
In the race for Mayor last Monday, H. D. Kellogg received 72 votes, Major Sleeth 40, and Rev. Thompson 1.
For Police Judge, James Christian received 112 votes, and Rev. David Thompson 1.
For Councilmen, Jas. Benedict received 72, E. P. Farrar 72, Jas. I. Mitchell 72, H. Godehard 71, I. H. Bonsall 71, A. A. Newman 40, O. P. Houghton 40, E. D. Eddy 40, J. A. Loomis 40, Dr. J. T. Shepard 40, Rev. Wingar 1, Rev. Swarts 1, Rev. Will York 1, L. C. Norton 1, J. C. Topliff 3, Sherb Hunt 1.
[RAILROAD REJECTED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
The County to be Deprived of a Railroad
On Account of Local Jealousies.
The following letter from the representatives of the Kansas City, Emporia and Southern Railway, to the committee who were sent from this place to overtake and confer with them, explains itself, and it is plain to all under the present disposition of some parties who claim to represent communities, if their course of action is not changed, the county will be deprived of a railroad.
HOWARD CITY, KAS., March 17th, 1877.
Messrs. W. M. Sleeth and T. H. McLaughlin:
GENTLEMEN: As representatives of the company proposing to construct the Kansas City, Emporia and Southern R. R., we thought it unadvisable to submit the matter to the further consideration of the people of your county, owing to divisions arising from local jealousies. In this view we may be mistaken. As you desire, however, to have an expression of your county, we will say that if you act promptly and favorably upon the proposition, the company will build the road. (Signed) C. V. ESKRIDGE. AND J. K. FINLEY.
Excerpts...
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PROCEEDINGS.]
Winfield Courier, April 19, 1877.
Board of County Commissioners met in regular session. All the Board present with James McDermott, County Attorney, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk. Among other proceedings had, sundry claims were presented and passed upon as follows:
W. M. Sleeth, Co. commissioner: $9.00
Arkansas City Traveler, April 25, 1877.
The City Council met and organized last Saturday. Wm. Sleeth was appointed Treasurer and I. H. Bonsall City Clerk. No Marshal or Street Commissioner was appointed. The officers are: Mayor, H. D. Kellogg; Police Judge, Jas. Christian; Councilmen: James Benedict, H. P. Farrar, J. I. Mitchell, H. Godehard, and I. H. Bonsall.
[CRESWELL TOWNSHIP STATISTICS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 16, 1877.
Number of bushels of corn on hand the first day of March, 1877, in Creswell Township, 12,535.
Wm. Sleeth and James I. Mitchell have the greatest number of bushels of corn. Mr. Sleeth has 1,500 and Mr. Mitchell 1,200.
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Winfield Courier, July 12, 1877.
County Commissioners’ Proceedings.
OFFICE OF COUNTY CLERK,
Winfield, Kansas, July 5th, 1877.
Board of County Commissioners met in regular session. Present: R. F. Burden, Chairman, W. M. Sleeth and William White, members of the board, with James McDermott, County Attorney, R. L. Walker, Sheriff, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk. Among other proceedings claims against the county were presented to the board and passed upon as follows, viz.
County Commissioner Salary:
R. F. Burden, $24.00; W. M. Sleeth, $24.00; and Wm. White, $24.00.
Excerpts...
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS: THE CONVENTION.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 26, 1877.
On last Saturday the delegates of the several townships, chosen to nominate officers for the Republican ticket, gathered together at Winfield. As considerable interest and strife was manifested among several of the candidates, the members of the convention met early to organize. After considerable dispute, the temporary organization was completed and Mr. Callison, of Spring Creek Township, chosen Chairman, Chas. Eagin, Secretary, with R. A. Houghton and L. J. Webb, tellers.
Dr. Graham was elected Coroner, E. P. Kinne, Registrar of Deeds; Thomas Bryan, County Treasurer; Capt. Hunt, County Clerk; N. A. Haight, Surveyor; Geo. L. Gale, County Commissioner of the first district of Rock, Maple, Vernon, Beaver, and Winfield Townships; Major Wm. Sleeth, Commissioner of the second district, comprised of Creswell, Bolton, Pleasant Valley, Silverdale, Liberty, Spring Creek, Cedar, and Otter Townships; R. F. Burden, Commissioner of the third district of Tisdale, Windsor, Dexter, Silver Creek, and Sheridan Townships.
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Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
THE CONVENTION.
WINFIELD, KANSAS, Sept. 22, 1877.
The following named gentlemen were nominated by the delegates from their respective districts as candidates for County Commissioners:
1st District: Geo. L. Gale.
2nd District: W. M. Sleeth.
3rd District: R. F. Burden.
On motion convention adjourned.
J. B. CALLISON, Chairman.
CHAS. H. EAGIN, Secretary.
R. A. HOUGHTON, Assistant Secretary.
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Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.
COWLEY COUNTY CONTENTED.
WINFIELD, Sept. 24, 1877.
To the Editor of the Commonwealth.
Peace and harmony prevails once more in the ranks of the Republicans of Cowley. They met last Saturday, and from the many good men presented, selected the following straight Republican ticket:
For sheriff, Leon Lippmann; clerk, Capt. J. S. Hunt; treasurer, the present incumbent, Thos. R. Bryan; register, present incumbent, E. P. Kinne; surveyor, N. A. Haight; coroner, Dr. W. G. Graham; commissioners, G. L. Gall, and the present incumbents. W. M. Sleeth, and R. F. Burden.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.
The opposite side of this supplement is taken from matter printed in the Commonwealth. The article headed "Cowley County Contented," should be corrected as follows: The nominations for Commissioners should read, G. L. Gale, W. M. Sleeth, and R. F. Burden.
Excerpts...
Winfield Courier, October 11, 1877.
Of the County Commissioners we scarcely need speak. Messrs. Burden and Sleeth will be elected without opposition, and Mr. Gale, of this district, should and will poll the entire strength of the party. He is well known and esteemed as a citizen of Rock Township.
This is the ticket—our ticket, and we shall use all honorable means to secure its election in November.
[PROS AND CONS ON M. G. TROUP RUNNING INDEPENDENTLY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1877.
Troup was in office for four years as County Clerk. The Republicans did not choose him as their nominee—the Democrats repudiated him also as a nominee. COURIER came out with an article attacking Troup. This was denounced by county commissioners:
"This is to certify that we, the undersigned, Commissioners of Cowley County, Kansas, have read an article in the editorial columns of the Winfield Courier, entitled "Crookedness," and find the same to be a gross misrepresentation of Mr. Troup’s official acts concerning the final statement and settlement of Mr. Kager’s account as County Treasurer of said county. Believing in the motto, "honor to whom honor is due," we would further say that no official act of Mr. Troup, in connection with Mr. Kager’s final settlement, would in the least degree indicate in the mind of any fair-minded person that he (Troup) was dishonest, inefficient, or unfaithful in the trust confided to his care; but, on the contrary, his every act in that matter but serves to confirm us in the belief that he has been, and is, a faithful, efficient and honorable public servant." R. F. BURDEN, WM. WHITE, W. M. SLEETH.
October 27, 1877.
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Winfield Courier, November 1, 1877.
TROUP AGAIN.
The following editorial appeared in the COURIER of last week.
"CROOKEDNESS."
Mr. Troup asserts that during his term he has saved this county ten thousand dollars. How, Mr. Troup? When were we in danger of sustaining such a heavy loss? Have you done any more than your sworn duty as an officer? On the contrary, we have just come into possession of evidence that satisfies us that this county did sustain a loss of at least $2,561.20, that is directly charged to either your inefficiency or neglect.
October 23rd, 1876, the retiring county treasurer filed in your office a statement of his business during his term. The board of county commissioners intrusted you to examine that statement in detail, and ordered the county treasurer to refund to Mr. Kager any sum of money you should find due him. You have, or should have, in your office such checks and balances as would enable you to detect at once any error in the county treasurer’s accounts. On the 7th of last December, after examining the statement with Mr. Kager’s attorney, you reported to Mr. Bryan that Mr. Kinne had overpaid the county $522.17, and that that sum should be repaid to him as ordered by the county board. Sometime after this county attorney McDermott called your attention to the fact that Dist. No. 5 had sustained a loss of about $300, and said that it must be an error in your settlement with the county treasurer. You denied this emphatically, and said you knew the statement was correct. Mr. McDermott showed you after your efficient (?) service of three years as county clerk, how to detect such errors, looked up with you the affairs of Dist. No. 5, convinced you that a mistake of over $300 had been made in that instance, and left you to examine the accounts of other districts and see if other blunders had been made.
You then proceeded to make the examination and discovered that in your statement to Mr. Bryan you had made a mistake of $2,561.30, and you reported that blunder to the county board April 11th, 1877. Would the mistake ever have been discovered had it not been for the efficiency of the county attorney? Does not the county attorney deserve the credit for the detection of your blunder and the recovery to this county of the lost $2,561.30? We think so.
Did you save the balance of the ten thousand dollars in the same way?
You are invited to make your defense through the columns of the COURIER.
To this Mr. Troup replies as follows:
TROUP’S DEFENSE.
This is to certify that we, the undersigned Commissioners of Cowley County, Kansas, have read an article in the editorial columns of the Winfield COURIER, entitled "Crookedness," and find the same to be a gross misrepresentation of Mr. Troup’s official acts concerning the final statement and settlement of Mr. Kager’s account vs. county treasurer of said county. Believing in the motto of "honor to whom honor is due," we would further say that no official act of Mr. Troup’s in connection with Mr. Kager’s final settlement would, in the least degree, indicate to the mind of any fair-minded person that he (Troup) was dishonest, inefficient, or unfaithful in the trust confided to his care, but on the contrary, his every act in that matter but serves to confirm us in the belief that he has been, and is, a faithful, efficient, and honorable public servant.
(Signed) R. F. BURDEN, WM. WHITE, W. M. SLEETH.
October 27th, 1877.
Now, Mr. Editor, I deem the foregoing to be a sufficient answer to the villainous article you published last week, and do not care to trespass further on your space with that matter. However, I desire to say that you must be supporting a most odious ticket indeed, if it requires such dirty work to carry it, as you had made use of, in your last issue. Does it not strike you as being a little ridiculous, Mr. Editors, for you to resort to such infamous measures to carry a ticket, that is as worthy of support as you say yours is, in a county where you have a straight majority of 700 votes? Do you not think you could lend more dignity to the exalted position which you hold, at the head of the public education of this great commonwealth, if you were to devote more time to the educational interests of the state, and less to the publication of such articles, as emanated from your fertile brain last week? Is it not, in fine, just a little degrading to the Office of State Superintendent of Public Instruction, for you to come down here, 200 miles, to do the dirty work for a few political shysters, in a local canvass for county officers? I leave you to answer these interrogations at your leisure.
Now, Mr. Editor, having performed my duties honestly and faithfully, I feel confident that all future discoveries of "crookedness" will have the same foundation of fact, as the one mentioned last week. Having nothing to fear from a strict and impartial inquiry into my official career, I invite you to try again, in your search for "crookedness."
Yours respectfully, M. G. TROUP.
There is no principle of newspaper courtesy that would require us to publish the above strictures on Mr. Lemmon. On the contrary, under the rules of the press we would be justified in refusing to publish the communication, because Mr. Troup has so forgotten that he should be a gentleman, as to call us hard names. However, we waive the discourtesy and publish the article entire. . . .
Arkansas City Traveler, November 7, 1877.
We took from a wagon, a turnip, weighing 6-3/4 pounds, grown by David Sleeth on the Walnut bottom. There were many others in the load just as large.
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.
We have been unable to obtain before going to press the full returns of the election in this county last Tuesday, but we can give the result with sufficient certainty. Troup, Independent, is elected county clerk by about 150 majority; Harter, democrat, is elected sheriff by over 100 majority; the republican candidates, Kinne for register of deeds, Haight for surveyor, Graham for coroner, and Gale, Sleeth, and Burden for commissioners are elected by large majorities, and Bryan, republican, is elected treasurer without opposition.
Excerpt...
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1877.
Winfield did not support the Republican nominee for Commissioner of District No. 1, as well as might have been expected, but Mr. Gale, of Rock Township, was elected "all the same, all the while."
Major Sleeth and Mr. Burden take it as a matter of course proceeding and don’t seem much elated either way.
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[CORRESPONDENCE.]
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877. Editorial Page.
LITTLE DUTCH, Nov. 3, 1877.
Now, Mr. Editor, you would like to make the people of Cowley County believe there was something wrong about the commissioners. You say that but for the efficiency of the County Attorney, the county would have lost so much money, and in another column you attempt to show dishonesty on the part of Mr. Troup and the board of commissioners in the matter of the duplicate tax roll.
It is a little strange that, lawyer as you are, you are not aware that you are getting your efficient County Attorney in a fix, as he is the legal adviser of the board who indorsed the claim "County liable." I believe that better men than Messrs. Sleeth and Burden for commissioners never were or will be elected to that office in this county, and such stuff as the COURIER contained in relation to them is mere trash fabricated for electioneering purposes.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 21, 1877.
TWENTY-SIX BUILDINGS UNDER WAY.
A BUILDING ASSOCIATION WAS FORMED A FEW WEEKS AGO, and entered into by twelve parties, agreeing to build a house each. Since then fourteen more have declared their intention to build. The original twelve were: S. P. Channell, W. M. Sleeth, A. A. Newman, L. H. Gardner. O. P. Houghton, Gardner Mott, H. P. Farrar, Silas Parker, J. L. Huey, C. R. Sipes, R. C. Haywood, and James Wilson
The additional fourteen are: J. C. McMullen, Thomas Baird, J. Dodwell, Mrs. Dean, C. C. Wolf, E. J. Fitch, Mr. Ray, Wm. Speers, T. A. Gaskill, D. Logan, J. T. Shepard, Kendall Smith, Jas. Benedict, David Finney
Mr. Gaskill has his house almost enclosed, and the foundations and preparations are being made for several others.
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Winfield Courier, November 22, 1877.
Claims Presented for Election Services.
OFFICE OF COUNTY CLERK,
WINFIELD, KANSAS, Nov. 9, 1877.
The Board of Commissioners met in special session. Present: R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, and William White, Commissioners; James McDermott, County Attorney, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk.
Winfield Courier, January 10, 1878.
The present board of county commissioners have been in regular session this week for the last time, and in reviewing their proceedings for the past year we are impressed with the good judgment they have displayed in the disposition of a great variety of difficult cases, and their general efficiency in conducting the business of the county. We do not believe there is a county in the state that has been better served by its board of county commissioners. Mr. White retires with the approval and confidence of the people, while Messrs. Burden and Sleeth, together with Mr. G. L. Gale, will constitute the board for the ensuing term, which gives the assurance that the affairs of the county will be equally well managed for two years to come.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1878.
[For the Traveler.]
The U. P. Congregation of Arkansas City.
About five years ago this congregation was organized with a membership of eleven in full communion. Wm. M. Sleeth and W. Shaw were elected ruling elders. In 1874 the congregation, with aid from the Board of Church Extension, and the generous assistance of friends of religion here and elsewhere, erected a fine church edifice at a cost of about $3,000. Under the fostering care of the Presbytery of Neosho, in furnishing supplies of gospel ordinances, the congregation has increased in numbers and wealth so as to justify them in calling one to take the charge and oversight of their spiritual interests.
Their choice fell on R. S. McClanahan, a licenciate of Monmouth Presbytery, after they had had a trial of his qualifications to edify them for upwards of eight months. The presbytery having ordained and installed him as pastor, it is hoped that the pleasure of the Lord will prosper through his instrumentality. He has the confidence of the congregation and the community, as a man of fair gifts and decided piety. May the relation lately formed between him and them be prosperous and happy.
Two good men, Mr. Leander Finley and Mr. R. L. Marshall, were added to the session or eldership of the congregation last week, and a comfortable communion was held here yesterday, Rev. J. A. Collins, of Americus, assisting.
A good Sabbath school and weekly prayer meeting are kept up in the congregation. The congregation, being in such good working order and situated in one of the best parts of the State, with a fair prospect of new accessions of members, it is hoped that the congregation will take root downward and bear fruit upward, to the praise of God and the salvation of man.
DAVID THOMPSON.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1878.
The new Board of Commissioners met last Monday and organized. Mr. Gale is the only new member, as Major Sleeth and R. F. Burden were re-elected.
Excerpt...
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1878.
Commissioners’ Proceedings.
Monday, the 14th. New board: R. F. Burden, chairman; W. M. Sleeth and G. L. Gale. Appointed John B. Lynn and Frank Williams to assist Judge Gans in counting the county funds; appointed Jas. L. Huey trustee of Creswell Township, vice Leonard, resigned; let the pauper contract to Butterfield, of Silverdale Township; let the medical attendance to Dr. Shepard, of Arkansas City.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1878.
[From the Winfield Courier.]
Monday, the 14th. New Board: R. F. Burden, chairman, W. M. Sleeth, and G. L. Gale. Appointed John Lynn and Frank Williams to assist Judge Gans in counting the county funds; appointed Jas. L. Huey trustee of Creswell township, vice Leonard, resigned; let the pauper contract to Butterfield, of Silverdale township; let the medical attendance to Dr. Shepard, of Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1878.
Maj. Sleeth sent three loads of hogs to Wichita yesterday.
Excerpt...
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. Claims allowed Jan. 10.
Co. Commissioners: W. M. Sleeth, $30; W. White $45; R. F. Burden, $45.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1878.
The election of city officers took place last Monday with the following result.
MAYOR: JAMES BENEDICT, 61; W. M. SLEETH, 37.
COUNCILMEN: J. T. SHEPARD, 63; WM. SPEERS, 59; THOS. BERRY, 63; C. R. SIPES, 58; I. H. BONSALL, 61; S. P. CHANNELL, 40; A. A. NEWMAN, 37; H. P. FARRAR, 37; E. D. EDDY, 37; T. H. McLAUGHLIN, 40.
POLICE JUDGE: JAMES CHRISTIAN, 84; TIMOTHY McINTIRE, 12.
Total number of votes cast: 98.
It is generally supposed that the officers elected will favor granting a saloon license on a proper petition.
Excerpt...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 18, 1878. Front Page.
ARKANSAS CITY.
[Special Correspondent Kansas City Times.]
The Cowley County Bank is a safe and reliable institution, presided over by Major Wm. Sleeth, with Capt. H. P. Farrar, as Cashier.
Excerpt...
Winfield Courier, April 18, 1878.
Commissioners’ Proceedings.
We are indebted to W. R. Stivers, the efficient assistant of the county clerk, for the following report.
The board of commissioners of Cowley County met in regular session at the county clerk’s office on the 8th day of April, 1878. Present: R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, and George L. Gale, commissioners; James McDermott, county attorney, and M. G. Troup, county clerk.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.
The young folks had a May picnic in Sleeth’s woods last Saturday, and a merry time was had. Swings were fixed for those who delighted in such sport, and the boys were ready to swing the fairer ones; a croquet set was on the ground, and the mallets and balls were in constant use—added to which, and of far greater importance, was the bountiful dinner prepared by the young ladies, washed down with lemonade. Though "ye local" did not reach the grounds until long after the dinner hour, he and his friend were left in undisputed possession of the "scraps" in the baskets, and they managed to make out a meal. We would again solemnly declare, however, that, to the best of our knowledge and belief, neither one of the gentlemen swallowed that apron.
P. S. We have been told that there was a fishing party, on the same day, further up the river, near Newman’s mill. They succeeded in catching a bob-tailed fish and shooting a small snake, after six hours of steady application, and are inclined to think the average fishing party a snare and a delusion.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 15, 1878.
MAJOR WM. SLEETH is one of the delegates to the National Presbytery, to be held at Cambridge, Ohio, and is now on his way to that place, with his pockets full of Cowley County wheat and hands full of Travelers and circulars describing this wonderful wheat growing region. His wife and child accompany him. Mrs. Sleeth will remain during the summer, but the Major will return within four weeks, probably by the way of Little Rock, Arkansas, in order to have a talk with the steamboat men of that place.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878.
Our town at this time faithfully illustrates the lines of the Irish poet:
"The rich may ride in chaises,
But the poor must stay at home, be J____s."
During the past week some ten of our leading businessmen’s wives have gone east and north to spend the summer: Mrs. O. P. Houghton, Mrs. J. L. Huey, Mrs. R. C. Haywood, Mrs. A. A. Newman, Mrs. H. P. Farrar, Mrs. M. Rexford, Mrs. David Thompson, Mrs. Ed. Thompson, Mrs. Wm. Sleeth, Mrs. S. P. Channell.
In about a month from now, what a rich harvest it would be for a traveling show to come along that had attractive female performers. The poor women that are left will have to confine themselves to such home pleasures as picnics and yachting up and down the river on Speers & Walton’s elegant little steamer, while their more favored sisters are inhaling the cool breezes of Lake George and the St. Lawrence River, and feasting on codfish and New England herring.
MRS. JUDGE CHRISTIAN has gone north (to Winfield), also, for a few days, on a visit to her daughter, Mrs. A. W. Berkey.
Mrs. Cramer has got married and gone East also (across the Walnut).
Winfield Courier, May 23, 1878.
Arkansas City takes a holiday trip today. Maj. Sleeth and wife go to Ohio, Mrs. Channell, Mrs. Thompson, and David Thompson go to Canada, Mrs. Newman and Mrs. Haywood go to New England, Charles Gallert and others to California, S. P. Channell goes to Oregon, Dr. Shepard and wife go to Missouri.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 5, 1878.
Arkansas City takes a holiday trip today. Maj. Sleeth and wife go to Ohio; Mrs. Channell, Mrs. Thompson, and David Thompson go to Canada; Mrs. Newman and Mrs. Haywood go to New England; Charles Gallert and others go to California; S. P. Channell goes to Oregon; and Dr. Shepard and wife go to Missouri. Courier.
What a lonesome time Scott will have now he is left are all alone. Eldorado Times.
We don’t propose to be left. We’ll excurt and visit the sunny clime of the Lone Star State. You had better come along, Mr. Times. We’ll sleep you in the open air and share our grubs with you, for the sake of your company.
Winfield Courier, June 6, 1878.
Mr. G. L. Gale and Mr. R. F. Burden were in town last Monday and Tuesday to equalize the assessments. Mr. Sleeth was absent.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.
List of Advertising Business Houses of Arkansas City
Cowley County Bank: W. M. Sleeth, President; H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 19, 1878.
MAJOR SLEETH returned this week from Cambridge, Ohio, where he has been for several weeks past.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 19, 1878.
FOURTH OF JULY!
A Grand Union Sunday School Picnic.
A general invitation is extended to the Sunday schools in this vicinity and surrounding country to unite in holding a basket picnic in Sleeth’s woods, on July 4th. The committee on general arrangements appointed the following committees, who are requested to enter at once upon their respective duties.
Committee on Programme.
Wm. Sleeth, Miss Clara Finley, Miss Ella Grimes, Miss Eva Swarts, Mrs. Wm. Wilson, Mrs. Alexander, Mrs. L. McLaughlin, Cal. Swarts, R. J. Maxwell, and W. L. Mowry.
Committee on programme are requested to meet at the M. E. Church on Friday evening at 8 o’clock, to arrange programme for the day.
Winfield Courier, July 4, 1878.
The County Commissioners have been in session this week. We are not able to get a report of their proceedings for this issue. It will appear next week. Mr. Gale is in feeble health, but Messrs. Burden and Sleeth are in good condition.
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
That Trip on the "Aunt Sally."
We "let off" our surplus patriotism on the Fourth by going to Arkansas City and taking a ride on the "Aunt Sally" beneath the classic shades of the "raging Walnut." The said "Aunt Sally" is not exactly like the Sound steamers that ply between Fall River and New York. We did not see the elegant staterooms, dining-hall, furniture, and such; but she paddled along just as well as though arrayed in gay plumage. The passengers stood up on deck and sweltered in the heat; taking two or three small showers for variety; then the whistle made most unearthly screams and the band played patriotic airs. The boat was manned by Channell, Sleeth, Swarts, Farrar, Mowry, and many others of the old sailors of Arkansas City. Many Winfield ladies and gentlemen were on board with us, exhibiting more enthusiasm, we thought, than did our "seaport" friends. When we returned to the landing, Bonsall was on hand with his camera to take a picture of the boat and its passengers, but we shall never believe he got a good picture until he furnishes us with a copy. When that infernal whistle shrieked, it was with difficulty that we prevented our unsophisticated Winfielders from following the example of the Indians down the river by jumping off and wading ashore. Troup jumped about 18 feet, Harris 14, Baird 12, Bliss 10, McMullen & Lemmon 3, Hudson 2. The rest of them were on the other side of the boat and we were not able to record their feats of ground and lofty tumbling.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.
BANK ROBBED!
THE COWLEY COUNTY BANK ROBBED OF $2,000!
IS IT THE JAMES BOYS?
A SECOND NORTHFIELD.
No Blood Shed, But Everything Done Quietly in Broad Daylight.
Generally speaking, there is little to create an excitement in our town, though we live on the border of the Indian Territory, the harbor for all horse thieves and desperadoes who are fleeing from State Justice.
Last Wednesday, however, our people were rudely awakened from their dream of security from invasions by lawless characters, by the report that the Cowley County Bank had been robbed in broad daylight, and that the robbers were heading west with their booty as fast as their horses could carry them. The particulars, as near as we can gather, from the thousand-and-one statements afloat, are as follows.
At ten minutes of ten o’clock on that morning, four horsemen rode into town, two of whom put up at Finney’s livery stable, and gave orders to have their horses fed immediately, but not unsaddled, as they would want them soon. Behind each saddle was a two-bushel seamless sack and a pair of over-alls, and small saddle bags were attached. They inquired particularly as to the time of day, and also were anxious to gain all the information they could concerning a herd of ponies near Caldwell—the exact location, condition of ponies, etc.
The other two ponies were taken to a different portion of the town, and left standing.
One of the two men who stopped at the stable was known by Mr. Finney as a person who used to herd for Mr. Smythia several miles south of here, who went by the name of Jim Kennedy. This man is about five feet, eight or nine inches in height, dark complexion, with dark brown moustache and chin whiskers trimmed short, and is probably between thirty and thirty-five years of age. The other one was nearly six feet in height, sandy complexion, with light brown moustache.
At five minutes after 12, just after Major Sleeth, president of the bank, had gone to dinner, a man stepped into the bank and requested Mr. Fred Farrar (who, in the absence of his brother, H. P. Farrar, acts in the capacity of cashier) to change a twenty-dollar bill. Mr. Farrar seeing that the bill was genuine, turned to make the change, when the man exclaimed roughly: "Here! Hand that bill back!" Naturally a little surprised, Farrar looked up, only to see the muzzle of a large seven-shooter staring him in the face; and before he could recover from the shock, two men, each with their revolvers cocked and pointed at him, stepped around the counter and politely invited him to come into the back room. Realizing in a moment that resistance was more than useless, Mr. Farrar coolly replied: "All right, sir," and walked back, when one man guarded him, while the other went through the safe, taking all the money that he could find, the third man standing guard at the door. By the time the money was taken, the fourth man, who had been standing with the other two horses on the corner some fifty yards south, walked into the bank, and two of the robbers waited with Mr. Farrar while the other two went for the horses. Bringing the horses up to the door, they all mounted, turned to Farrar, and with a polite "Good day, sir," they galloped off. The whole proceedings in the bank had not occupied over five minutes’ time.
Mr. Farrar immediately gave the alarm, and in an instant all was confusion. Men rushed up and down the streets in search of horses and fire arms, seemingly bereft of their senses. C. R. Mitchell and J. A. Stafford were first in the saddles, and started after them in the direction of Salt City. Stafford caught a glimpse of them, and cutting across the country, came near enough to them to fire, which he did. The leader looked around at him and coolly remarking, "You G_d d____d son-of-a-b___h," leveled his gun and returned fire, the bullet singing past Stafford’s ear, but not striking him. As all the party stopped, Stafford thought he had better go behind a small mound of sand, and just as he dropped down, another bullet from the robbers threw the sand all over his face. Mr. Stafford returned this shot, when the men touched up their horses and galloped easily off. By this time a crowd of our citizens had arrived on the spot and all joined in the chase.
After they had passed the "jack oaks" northwest of town, the pursuers could find no trace of them, and concluded they were hiding in the oaks, when they turned back and sent word to town for more men and guns—that they had the robbers corralled in the oaks.
Here is where the great mistake was made, as the thieves were still going toward Salt City, and crossed the ferry at that place shortly after 1 o’clock.
By this time Bolton Township was aroused, and Frank Lorry, with two more farmers, in company with Mr. Knight, of this place, started west, keeping near the line. They soon struck the trail of the robbers, and hearing that they were not more than a mile ahead, Mr. Lorry told a Mrs. Lucky to send her husband to town for reenforcements. Mrs. Lucky ran half a mile, with her baby in her arms, to where her husband was plowing, but for some reason he did not come in.
When this party arrived at Peters’ ranch, on the Shakaska, some 20 miles west, Mr. George Peters turned out with them and rendered most valuable assistance in the pursuit, besides furnishing feed for the worn-out horses.
They followed them until Thursday night, when the robbers gave them the slip at midnight, and got away, though the party would have chased them to Fort Sill had the reenforcements been sent. But not meeting these, and their own horses being completely worn out, the party of four were compelled to return. They desire to return hearty thanks to Mr. Peters for his assistance, and are enthusiastic in his praises.
Our men did not discover their mistake until too late to catch up with them, though the party in pursuit crossed the Salt City ferry one hour and a half behind them.
Mr. Farrar described the man who presented the bill as being 5 feet, 10 or 11 inches in height, well built, dark complexion, black moustache and goatee, and with a scar on his right cheek. Another man was described as being about 5 feet, 7 inches, light complexion and smooth face. The fourth man was described as being nearly 6 feet tall, and wore a moustache.
Some think the leader was one of the notorious James boys, but there is nothing reliable as to this. However that may be, it was about the coolest piece of business our citizens ever witnessed, and despite the hot weather, they are not desirous of seeing another.
A reward of $100 each for the robbers, dead or alive, has been offered; and $500 for the return of the money, or a proportionate sum for what can be regained.
Winfield Courier, August 8, 1878.
The county commissioners have been in session this week. Present: Burden, Sleeth, and Gale.
Winfield Courier, August 8, 1878.
A BOLD ROBBERY.
Unknown Robbers Go Through a Bank at Noonday.
The James Boys Outdone.
On Wednesday, July 31, 1878, at about half past 12 o’clock, four strangers effected the robbery of the Cowley County Bank at Arkansas City. The amount of money obtained is said to be $2,300. The robbers were seen in town during the forenoon; two of them entered a saloon, called for beer, drank, and sat down in the saloon for some time. The other two walked around town together; and at one time came into the saloon and called for beer, but pretended not to recognize their pals sitting there.
At dinner time two brought out their horses from a stable and hitched them not far from the bank. The two others came towards the bank from another direction and hitched their horses in another place. A drug store is next door to the bank and the salesman was at the door. One of the robbers called for quinine, saying he would step in and get it in a few moments, and the druggist went into his store to weigh it out while the customer patrolled the sidewalk.
Another robber went into the bank, where Mr. Farrar was alone in attendance, Mr. Sleeth having just gone to dinner, and presented a $20 bill, requesting small bills for it. Mr. Farrar proceeded to make the change, but immediately a revolver was presented at his head and silence commanded; at the same time two other robbers appeared with cocked revolvers. One of them led Mr. Farrar into the back room while the other two went through the safe, which was open. They took what money there was to be readily found and then Mr. Farrar was brought out to the door and required to sit down. The robbers made some jokes, thanked him for his kind attention, and promised to call again when they wanted more money. They bade him good-bye, mounted their horses, and rode together out the south side of town, then around to the west side and north past the cemetery. They were each armed with revolvers and a long range rifle.
The alarm was immediately given, and in a very few minutes a large number of men were on horseback, with such arms they could get hold of quickly, in pursuit. Messengers were at once sent over the river into Bolton Township to notify Frank Lorry and Rudolph Hoffmaster and rouse the people with the view of cutting off the retreat into the Territory. Others, including Mr. Sleeth, the president of the bank, rode rapidly up to Winfield for help to head them off in case the robbers should go north toward Wichita. A considerable numbered followed rapidly on the track of the robbers.
Mr. Stafford nearly overtook the robbers and got two shots at them; but they turned on him and fired a rifle shot, just scratching his cheek, and another throwing dirt over him, as he lay close to the ground in the grass to avoid their shots. The robbers then rode on, as other pursuers were coming up. At one place they rode into a grove or ticket and the pursuers immediately surrounded the grove and believed they had corralled their game. They spent a hour or more in searching the thicket, and finally determined that the robbers were not there. They then pursued on to the Salt City ferry. There they learned that the robbers had crossed more than an hour before and had turned southwest through Salt City in the direction of the Territory.
Messrs. Lorry and Hoffmaster had collected a number of men in Bolton and were patrolling the road all the way from Arkansas City to South Haven, two of their men having crossed the robbers’ tracks nearly half an hour before they got along; but their place of crossing this line was so uncertain, it was scarcely possible that Lorry’s men should be at the right place at the right time, so the robbers crossed their line and passed on into the Territory; but Lorry and his men soon got together and pursued.
Burt Covert and others, of Winfield, started out west from Winfield to intercept the robbers, if they went north. They rode over to the Arkansas River and discovered that the robbers had escaped across the Salt City ferry going southwest. Covert and C. G. Holland, of Beaver, having first-class horses and courage, pursued some thirty miles into the Territory and long into the night, until Covert’s horse got so sprained in crossing a bog that he was unable to proceed except at a slow and limping gait. They therefore abandoned the pursuit.
On Friday following Frank Lorry returned. It appears that they got a long ways ahead of the robbers in the Territory and therefore lost all track of them. They therefore abandoned the pursuit and probably passed them on their return.
It is believed that at least one of the robbers was a James. It is evident that they are experienced hands at the business.
Humorous story relative to Sheriff Harter at time of Arkansas City Bank robbery was told one year later...
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1879.
A good joke is told on Charley Harter about the Arkansas City bank robbery. After the news had arrived, Charley met Burt Covert on the crossing of Main street and Ninth Avenue, his face pale and hair disheveled, and grabbing him by the arm, said: "B___; B __Burt; Read’s Bank has been robbed; five hun__hundred dollars reward, get Dick Walker and go after them quick." Burt and Dick went after them while Charley, after his "excitement" had subsided, learned that it was Arkansas City, instead of Winfield, that had been raided, and immediately took steps to capture them if they came within two blocks of Main street.
Back to correct sequence of newspapers in 1878...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 11, 1878.
SORROWFUL NEWS.
Major Sleeth received news last night from Mrs. Sleeth, now visiting in Cambridge, Ohio, that their child was about to die.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "I. H. B."—CORRESPONDENT.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 25, 1878.
Arkansas City, Sept. 23rd, 1878.
Dear Traveler,
In company with R. A. Houghton, Wm. Sleeth, and Jas. Christian, your correspondent paid a flying visit to the ship yard on the west bank of the Arkansas River opposite the town, and there found Cyrus Wilson busily engaged in building a steam boat for John McClaskey and J. H. Seymour. The boat is intended to run between Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas, and Little Rock, Arkansas. The boat is a trifle larger than Aunt Sally. The ribs and hull are constructed of good oak lumber and will be a good substantial boat, 85 feet long and 22 feet beam. The hull is 83 feet by 16 feet on the bottom, and 85 feet by 18 feet on the deck, and with the machinery on board, will draw less than eight inches; the bow is not square like the Aunt Sally, but built with a "Model bow." Messrs. McClaskey & Seymour deserve a great deal of credit for rushing this enterprise as they have. Being men of limited means, they have shown true western pluck in taking hold and working out of almost nothing this boat, and the public should give them all the aid in their power to enable them to put on a good and serviceable piece of machinery.
Their intentions are to put on McClaskey’s saw mill engine and load the hull with wheat and go to Little Rock and with the proceeds of the sale of the load of wheat purchase two good engines suitable for the work and finish the upper part of the boat down at some saw mill where good pine lumber can be had at reasonable figures.
I think it would be a good plan for the different parties holding wheat notes given to induce boat building to sign them over to Messrs. McClaskey & Seymour to apply to finishing this boat and make sure of having one boat at least on the river this fall.
Most all signing these notes would consent to their transfer to the first boat as that was the object in donating the wheat. Now is the time to push this work on to a successful issue and it should not be allowed to fail for want of means to finish the boat and put on board good powerful engines that will enable them to handle the boat in all stages of water. Bring along your wheat and put this work on a sure basis. I. H. B.
Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.
Our County Board.
We cannot forbear a word of commendation for the fearless, just, and manly course of action of our county commissioners in relation to the two railroad petitions which were presented to them last Monday. There was a struggle between the partisans of the two roads for priority in the time of holding the elections. The advocates of the road whose petition was first presented were present in force, demanded immediate action, and got hot and clamorous. They indulged in insinuations and threats against the board, and more particularly against Mr. Burden, who told them to go ahead and execute their threats for he would not act until he had time to consider the matter and to advise with the county attorney, who was absent that day. The matter was postponed until the next morning, when the county attorney was present and the board had carefully examined and considered the matter. The order for the election was then made under the condition and understanding that a stipulation should be filed limiting the amount of bonds to be voted to that road to $144,000. The board did right, as they always do.
Burden cannot be persuaded or intimidated into any action until he is sure it is right, and will do right and for the best interests of his county whether it suits his personal interests or not. The same may be said of Gale and Sleeth. A better, truer, more efficient board of county commissioners no county ever had.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 27, 1878.
A fire that had been started in a rubbish pile back of Dr. Shepard’s on Saturday afternoon broke away and ran towards Mr. Sleeth’s house, creating some alarm, but no damage.
[COUNTY OFFICERS.]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
Judge 13th Judicial District.—Hon. W. Campbell.
Board of County Commissioners.—R. F. Burden, G. L. Gale, W. M. Sleeth.
County Clerk.—M. G. Troup.
County Treasurer.—T. B. Bryan.
Probate Judge.—H. D. Gans.
Register of Deeds.—E. P. Kinne.
Supt. Pub. Inst.—R. C. Story.
Sheriff.—C. L. Harter.
Coroner.—M. G. Graham.
County Attorney.—James McDermott.
Clerk District Court.—B. S. Bedilion.
County Surveyor.—N. A. Haight.
Deputy County Surveyor.—J. Hoenscheidt.
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1879.
Arkansas City Items.
Our Representative, M. R. Leonard, W. M. Sleeth, of the county board, and Col. W. M. Whiteman, Ponca agent, passed up to Wichita on Friday.
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1879.
Board of County Commissioners met in regular session [January 6, 1879]. Present: R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, and G. L. Gale, commissioners, James McDermott, county attorney, and M. G. Troup, county clerk.
Among other proceedings had, bills against the county were presented and passed upon by the board as follows.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS: PAID $51.00 EACH.
Winfield Courier, March 20, 1879.
COWLEY COUNTY SABBATH SCHOOL CONVENTION.
The following are the officers of the Cowley County Sabbath School Convention.
President: R. C. Story.
Vice President: W. M. Sleeth.
Secretary: F. S. Jennings.
Assistant Secretary: H. E. Asp.
Treasurer: James Harden.
Executive Committee: R. C. Story, F. S. Jennings, T. R. Bryan, Will Mowry, E. W. Jones, John R. Thompson, and A. S. Williams.
Winfield Courier, March 20, 1879.
NOTICE: SPECIAL RAILROAD BOND ELECTION.
Whereas, the county commissioners of the county of Cowley, State of Kansas, at a special meeting, held March 10th, 1879, made an order of which the following is a copy.
"At a special meeting of the county commissioners of Cowley County, holden at the office of the county clerk in the courthouse in the City of Winfield in said county on the 10th day of March A. D. 1879, there were present: R. F. Burden, Chairman; W. M. Sleeth and Geo. L. Gale, Commissioners; with E. S. Torrance, County Attorney, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk; a petition was presented to the Board, signed by two-fifths of the resident taxpayers of said county which, with the signatures omitted is as follows: to wit:
"To the Honorable the Board of County Commissioners of the county of Cowley and State of Kansas:
"Inasmuch as the Southern Kansas and Western Railroad Company proposes to construct a line of railroad into and through the county of Cowley, in the State of Kansas, the undersigned, being more than two-fifths of the resident tax payers of said county, respectfully petition your Honorable Board to call a special election in said county at as early a day as is practicable, and legal, and at such special election to submit to the qualified electors of said county, a proposition to subscribe 68 thousand (68,000) dollars to the capital stock of said Southern Kansas and Western Railroad Company, a corporation duly organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Kansas, and to issue the bonds of said county in the like amount of sixty-eight thousand (68,000) dollars, in payment of said subscriptions, said bonds to be delivered to said railroad company for like amounts of the capital stock thereof as follows: Fifty-one thousand (51,000) dollars when said railroad is in operation to the point herein after named, near the city of Winfield in said county, and the remaining seventeen thousand (17,000) dollars when the said railroad is in operation to the western line of said county.
THIS GOES ON AND ON...SIMILAR TO WHAT WAS OUTLINED TO BEGIN WITH...MAIN THING: SPECIAL ELECTION: TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 1879.
ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT EDITIONS, THUS FAR...SHOWS PICTURES OR SKETCHES OF SOME OF THE BUILDINGS: READ’S BANK, WINFIELD; THE "AUNT SALLY;" ARKANSAS CITY SCHOOL BUILDING; COURT HOUSE AT WINFIELD; AND LATEST REVISED MAP OF COWLEY COUNTY ON FRONT PAGE.
[COURT HOUSE NOTES.]
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1879.
REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS [CITY ONLY].
W. M. Sleeth and wife to W. S. Houghton, lots 5 and 6, blk. 142, Arkansas City. $40.
Winfield Courier, May 22, 1879.
REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS [IN THE CITY]
D. H. Sleeth to W. M. Sleeth, lot 26, blk 81, Arkansas City. $600.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1879.
Real Estate Transfers.
D. H. Sleeth to W. M. Sleeth, lt. 26, blk. 81, Ark. City.
Abbie Tales et al to W. M. Sleeth, lot 8, blk. 71, Ark. City.
M. G. Troup to W. M. Sleeth and H. P. Farrar, lot 11, blk. 80, lots 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, blk. 19, and lots 1, 2, 3, and 4, blk. 16 and lot 9, blk. 55, Ark. City.
M. G. Troup to W. M. Sleeth and H. P. Farrar, lot 11, blk. 80, lots 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14, blk. 10, and lots 1, 2, 3, and 4, blk. 16 and lot 9, blk. 55, Ark. City.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 16, 1879.
Mr. Sleeth is erecting three new houses west of town for renting purposes. Messrs. Parker and Canfield have the contract.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 16, 1879.
Persons having subscribed aid to the cyclone sufferers in Butler County and not yet paid the same will please call at Cowley County Bank and pay, so that the funds may be sent at once. W. M. SLEETH, Treasurer.
Excerpt...
[ARTICLE RE ARKANSAS CITY FROM CHICAGO PAPER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1879 - Front Page.
The Cowley County Bank, organized in 1872, and conducted with marked ability by its founders up to 1877, is a strong concern, and has a very high standing in business circles. Its capital and franchises were purchased in 1877 by Wm. M. Sleeth, its President, and H. P. Farrar, Cashier, who have continued its management up to the present, with distinguished ability and success. It has ample capital, a large and growing local patronage, a liberal line of collections; like Read’s bank at Winfield, has burglar proof safes, secured by Yale time locks, and is firmly entrenched in the faith of the business community. Both of the gentlemen named are closely and largely identified with the city and county, are men of rare business tact, decided public spirit, and sterling personal character.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1879.
Today at 1:30 p.m., Ed Bouton will give an exhibition of the merits of the Hapgood sulky plow on W. M. Sleeth’s farm east of town, and all farmers interested should make it a point to be on hand.
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1879.
The delegates from the Second Commissioner District met and organized with H. L. C. Gilstrap in the chair.
W. M. Sleeth, the present commissioner from that district, was put in nomination, but declined to be a candidate.
A vote was then taken, resulting as follows.
Henry Harbaugh, 18; T. H. McLaughlin, 9; W. E. Chenoweth, 2.
Mr. Harbaugh was declared the nominee.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
Hon. M. R. Leonard, Hon. C. R. Mitchell, Maj. Sleeth, and Col. Haywood are at Topeka, looking after railroad interests.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879.
On Friday night last, a man giving his name as ______, drove down to David Sleeth’s wheat-bin and attempted to "lift" a load of wheat from David. But David always sleeps with one eye open, and soon discovered that the fellow had made a hole in his bin without lawful authority. David and the man took a night walk up to town in search of a Justice, but failing to find one, the fellow was allowed to go on parole, to appear the next morning. But the next morning the fellow was non est, though it is said that he resides east of the Walnut.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1880.
The new County Board of Commissioners met at the courthouse on Monday. Commissioner Sleeth retired and Commissioner Harbaugh took his place. Indications are that Mr. Harbaugh will make a first-class commissioner. The county printing was let to the Semi-Weekly, at legal rates.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
W. M. Sleeth retires from the office of County Commissioner, in which he has served his county faithfully and efficiently. His own district has been especially well represented. He will now partake of the business prosperity of his town and county, which he has done much to promote, and we wish him abundant business and success.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 4, 1880.
Wedding Bells.
GOOCH - HOUGHTON. Married on Wednesday evening, February 4th, at the First Presbyterian Church in Arkansas City, Mr. Wyatt Gooch and Miss Hattie Houghton, by Rev. McClung.
LIST OF PRESENTS.
Dr. and Mrs. Shepard and Maj. Sleeth and wife, willow chair.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 24, 1880
At a meeting on Tuesday night convened for the purpose of nominating a strict temperance ticket for the city election, the following nominations were made:
Mayor, William Sleeth; Councilmen, O. P. Houghton, T. H. McLaughlin, Charles Searing, Leander Findley, D. Berger. Police Judge, M. Stanton.
[Note: Am uncertain about Leander Findley. Believe it should be "Finley." MAW]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 19, 1880.
The ladies’ union temperance meeting will be held at Major Sleeth’s tomorrow at 3 o’clock.
[REPORT OF CITY TREASURER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, June 30, 1880.
Report of City Treasurer for the Month
Ending June 21, 1880.
Received from Co. Treasurer Bryan—
City Tax: $466.20, Sidewalk Tax: $43.50. Total: $509.70
Received from City Treasurer Sleeth, 1879 balance: $772.59
Received from Sanford, balance on license: $100.00
From sale of bonds: $4,600.00
From A. Chapel, Mayor, on license: $6.00
From A. Walton, license: $3.00
Total: $5,991.29
By City Scrip issued for trade and commerce: $4,576.97
BALANCE IN TREASURY: $1,414.32 H. P. FARRAR, Treasurer.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 18, 1880.
Messrs. Farrar & Sleeth have hitherto confined themselves to a strictly banking business, loaning but little money on real estate. As will be seen by their announcement in another column, they are now prepared to loan home money on real estate at the low rate of ten percent. No more favorable terms can be had anywhere in this part of the State than at the Cowley County Bank.
AD: W. M. SLEETH, H. P. FARRAR,
COWLEY COUNTY BANK,
ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
DOES A
GENERAL BANKING BUSINESS.
Interest Allowed on Time Deposits,
DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN
EXCHANGES BOUGHT AND SOLD.
COLLECTIONS PROMPTLY ATTENDED TO.
CORRESPONDENTS:
THIRD NATIONAL BANK, New York.
BANK OF KANSAS CITY, Kansas City, Mo.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 29, 1880.
Major Sleeth and brother, David, are in Kansas City. The latter gentleman has been suffering severely from catarrhal affection, and is undergoing treatment for the same in the above city.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1880.
We take much pleasure in drawing attention to the new "ad" of the Cowley County Bank. This is one of the oldest as well as most reliable banking firms in the county and under the management of Major Sleeth as president, and H. P. Farrar as cashier, enjoys a large and lucrative patronage.
AD: COWLEY COUNTY BANK,
W. M. SLEETH, President. H. P. FARRAR, Cashier.
Arkansas City, Kansas.
A GENERAL BANKING BUSINESS TRANSACTED.
INTEREST ALLOWED ON TIME DEPOSITS.
EXCHANGE ON ALL EASTERN CITIES.
COLLECTIONS PROMPTLY ATTENDED TO.
Your business solicited.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 17, 1880.
We had the pleasure of meeting Dr. A. B. McCandlass, of Columbia City, Iowa, an old friend of Major Sleeth, who has been visiting in this city during the past week and looking after his landed interests in this vicinity. The Doctor is a good Republican as well as a genial gentleman.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 24, 1880.
The contract for putting up the tank, windmill, and other apparatus for the city waterworks has been let to a Mr. Mason, who is connected with the Fairbanks scale firm. As we understand it, it has been decided to put up an "Eclipse" windmill over the well which will work a force pump that will throw the water into a one thousand barrel tank, to be placed near Major Sleeth’s residence, from whence a pipe will be laid down Summit street to Central avenue. A fire and house hydrant will be placed on the corners of Summit and Fifth and Central Avenues, thus affording an ample supply of water in case of a fire in the business portion of the city. The stone foundations for the windmill and tank and digging trenches for the pipes are to be executed by the city outside of the contract.
[CHRISTMAS TREE ACTIVITIES: PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.]
Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1880.
CHRISTMAS TIME.
The names of the various committees having in charge the Christmas tree festivities to be held at the Presbyterian church, were handed in last week, but were unavoidably crowded out, and are presented in this issue, as follows.
Committee on Procuring Tree: Messrs. John Walker, M. B. Vawter, S. B. Reed, A. Gardner, R. Hutchison, C. L. Swarts.
Committee on Receiving Presents: Misses Clara Finley, Alma Dixon, Kate Hawkins, May Roland, May Benedict, Lizzie Guthrie, Mary Thomas, and Messrs. F. W. Farrar, C. M. Swarts, Dr. Vawter, Robert Maxwell.
Decorating Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Searing, Mr. and Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Haywood, Mrs. Shepard, Mrs. Cypher, Misses Mary Parker, Angie Mantor, Carrie Benedict, Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Linnie Peed, Flora Finley, Albertine Maxwell, Sadie Thomas, Linda Christian, Annie Hutchison, Mary Theaker, Emma and Susie Hunt, Ada Easterday; Messrs. E. G. Gray, W. D. Mowry, John Kroenert, J. D. Houston, George Howard, D. Cunningham, James Leonard, Will Peed, J. C. Topliff, Dick Chamberlain, Irving French.
Distributing Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Standley, Mr. and Mrs. Bonsall, Mr. and Mrs. Gooch, Mr. and Mrs. Sleeth, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mantor.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881.
The following was the ticket put in nomination at the Republican township caucus held last Saturday in this city.
Trustee: Uriah Spray.
Treasurer: William Sleeth.
Clerk: W. D. Mowry.
Justice of the Peace: S. J. Mantor.
Constables: G. H. McIntire, E. M. Bird.
[TOWNSHIP OFFICERS.]
Winfield Courier, February 17, 1881.
Below we give a list of township officers elected at the February election. In some of the townships the Justices hold over.
BOLTON: Trustee, J. M. Sample; treasurer, A. Mowry; Justice, J. H. Titus; clerk, A. Buzzi.
CRESSWELL: Trustee, U. Spray; treasurer, W. M. Sleeth; clerk, W. D. Mowry; Justice, T. McIntire.
[ARKANSAS CITY WATER WORKS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 27, 1881.
OUR WATER WORKS.
A GRAND SUCCESS AND A NOTABLE ACQUISITION TO
ARKANSAS CITY.
There are few things more conducive to the well-being of a community than a plentiful supply of pure water, for domestic and public use, as well as for the protection afforded against the spreading of destructive fires. Situated as we have hitherto been, dependent for our supply of this necessity of life upon several deep wells, which, although fully adequate for all ordinary wants were of necessity almost useless as a protection to property from fire, made the urgency of our need for something more effective than the existing supply more and more apparent each day.
But the old has given place to the new, and today Arkansas City can boast the possession of as fine and effective a system of water works as can, of the like caliber, be found anywhere. It is now scarcely a year since the project of supplying the city with water was first broached, yet that short time has sufficed, thanks to the energy and public spirit of the ex-Mayor and City Council, in conferring upon the city the inestimable advantages of an unlimited supply of pure spring water. The works, of which a short description is herein given, were put in at a total cost to the city of about $1,700, counting in the $300 expended on the well. This outlay will be far more than recompensed in the event of its preventing one destructive fire, let alone the advantages daily conferred upon our citizens.
The machinery necessary to the pumping of the water into the tank consists of an "Eclipse Windmill," supplied by the Fairbanks Co. This windmill, which is run by a wheel 14 feet in diameter, is automatic in its action, and therefore needs no attention or regulation other than to be started and stopped.
This part of the works is located near W. H. Speers’ mill, and the supply of water is furnished from a spring that has never, in the past twelve years, been known to fail. It may be well to mention, that though the pumps were kept constantly going last week, no visible effect was observed in the level of the water of the spring.
The tank, or reservoir, is located on South Summit Street, and has a capacity of 993 barrels. It is constructed substantially of pine, is fourteen feet in height, well painted and mounted upon a stone foundation, also fourteen feet in height. It is estimated that the level of the water is forty feet above the road level at the fire plug on Matlack’s corner. There are three fire plugs on Summit street, at the intersection of Central, Fifth, and Sixth Avenues, with three family hydrants between them.
Messrs. O. P. Houghton, W. E. Gooch, and Maj. Sleeth have already laid the water into their residences, and as soon as the pipes are laid on other thoroughfares, a matter now under consideration, we think the expense of running the works will be more than covered by the amount paid for this privilege alone.
At this writing the tank, which has been gradually soaking, is full to its utmost capacity, in which condition it will in the future be kept.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 15, 1881.
O. P. Houghton traded the one-half of the Cowley County bank site to Messrs. Farrar and Sleeth for a house and two lots in the northwest part of town.
Excerpts from a lengthy article...
[OPINIONS RELATIVE TO THE CANAL IN ARKANSAS CITY.]
Winfield Courier, August 11, 1881.
For a few days there has been "music in the air" and charges flying thick about that the Arkansas City Water Power Company was making an attempt to freeze out the city’s interest and get full control of the canal property. The feeling seemed to be that there was a swindle out somewhere and for the past week we have been receiving communications and questions from subscribers at Arkansas City asking for information on the subject. We resolved at once to investigate and publish the facts.
Monday morning a reporter examined the records relating to the different transfers between the city, the canal company, and the stockholders.
We found that the principal instruments on file were: First, a deed from the City to the Arkansas City Water Power Company covering the right of way for the canal. The consideration named is $327.25 in cash, and 800 shares of $25 each, of stock in the company.
Second, a trust deed, executed in favor of Calvin Hood and Geo. A. Newman, of Emporia, covering the canal, right of way, and all the property pertaining thereto and improvements made in the future thereon.
The trust deed is executed for the purpose of securing fifty $1,000 first mortgage bonds, drawing seven percent interest and payable in twenty years. The deed also pledges the revenues derived from the property first to the payment of interest, and the residue to the creation of a sinking fund for the redemption of the bonds.
This trust deed, executed as it is, annihilates the stock, as it takes the dividend from the stock and applies it to the payment of, and interest on, the mortgage bonds. It is, in effect, collecting the revenue for years to come in advance.
After an examination of the records, it looked very much as if the city held $20,000 of worthless stock, which could in no event bring any revenue. At noon we took the train for the city to interview the parties interested and gather such facts as might be learned of the condition of affairs.
Upon arrival there we found much uneasiness among the people, and the city government and canal company at swords points. Every citizen we met had a different theory as to the "intentions and designs" of the canal company. One asserted that the company had built the canal with the citizens money and had enough left to pay handsomely for their trouble, and that now they had mortgaged the concern for $50,000 and pocketed the proceeds. The opinion of this calculating citizen was that the five members of the canal company had cleared about $10,500 each on the transaction. Another, a very vehement gentleman, who looked wise and talked "around the corner" told us, with a "wink and two nods," that the "scheme" was to let the interest payments go by default, the property be sold, and the company would buy it in for a song and thereby wipe out the city’s interest.
MAJOR SLEETH,
Another of the canal company, was found in his office. He greeted us cordially and talked frankly, fairly, and earnestly about the matter. He said that he had taken hold of the matter because he felt that it would be a benefit to the city; and that he had, aside from investing money of his own in the enterprise, entered into bonds and contracts for the creation of the water power. That he and other members of the company were perhaps as large property holders as any in the city, that a large share of the burden of taxation would fall upon them, and that they had every interest of the city as well as the enterprise at heart. He further said that he regretted the feeling of distrust existing in the community, that the canal must be made a success or everything would be lost, as the string of public credit and private subscription has been drawn to its fullest tension, and a recoil would snap it asunder. That under such circumstances, it behooved every citizen to put his shoulder to the wheel and help push, instead of throwing cold water on those who did. The major’s talk was forcible and logical and convinced us that he, at least, was true to the public cause, which, if successful, will be of lasting benefit to the city.
MR. HILL.
In the afternoon we drove with Mr. Sleeth to the works, and found Mr. Hill hard at work by the dam site, superintending the repairs being made on the structure. An appointment for the evening was made to talk over the situation.
Mr. Hill was on hand promptly at the appointed hour, and in a clear and vivid manner gave us a complete history of the scheme from the beginning. He said that he came to Arkansas City, not to work, but to rest. When he came the possible existence of water power was being talked of. Knowing that he had experience in such work, he was asked to take the water level. He did so, and reported about a twenty feet fall from the Arkansas to the Walnut. An engineer was then brought from Kansas City, who again took the level, with the same result.
Mr. Hill, the engineer, thought a canal would be practicable and that 500 horse power could be secured. He then told the city that if they would issue $20,000 bonds, he would take them, furnish the balance of the funds needed, and enter into a contract, secured by a $20,000 bond to be approved by the city officers, to furnish 500 horse power. The bonds were voted, he took them, and commenced operations.
He approached the leading men of the town to take interest with him and they did so; a stock company was organized, the city receiving $20,000, and the company retaining $30,000, or a controlling interest.
Regarding the cost of the work, Mr. Hill said that the total cost up to this time was about $40,000; $18,000 of which had been realized from the city’s bonds.
The matter of the trust deed was then mentioned, when Mr. Hill said: "Herein lies the whole difficulty with the city. Although I have talked to the council for hours, I have failed to make them understand the necessity of issuing mortgage bonds.
"In the first place, we have yet to make a tail race before the power is available, which was not contemplated by the contract with the city. In the next place, mills must be got here to utilize the power or no revenue can be derived from it. Many of these enterprises will need assistance, and as the city is in no condition to do so, we must either do it ourselves and carry the city’s stock, or let the enterprise go, with the revenue which might be derived from it.
"To get out of this difficulty, we resolved to issue mortgage bonds and hold them in the treasury to be used for this purpose. The mortgage would cover the city’s interest in the canal as well as ours, and all would bear the burden alike. We have the bonds, all signed up, in the treasury, ready to be used whenever, and wherever, the interests of the project demands. Now this is all there is in this trust deed. It was certainly the best and only policy to pursue.
"The city’s interests are as fully protected as those of any other stockholder. Twenty thousand of the fifty thousand bonds now in our safe belong, in a certain sense, to it, to be used for the purposes specified in this trust deed: namely, the improvement and embetterment of the property.
"The only trouble with the city officers and the people is, that they do not understand it. They seem to think that this mortgage business is a scheme to wipe out the city’s interest in the canal; and this is about all the thanks we get for pushing the matter through.
"We have contracted to furnish 500 horse power, and we propose to do it. Already we have leased power to two mills for $3,100 per annum, and have 400 horse power left to be used as fast as we can get mills to use it. If we succeed in disposing of the full power, at say, fifty horse power to the mill, it will give us ten mills and an annual revenue of $15,000. This will pay interest on the bonds, provide for the sinking fund, and leave a handsome dividend on the stock. This is all there is of it. If the city acts fairly in this matter, all will be well. If it does not, I shall not answer for the consequences."
Winfield Courier, September 22, 1881.
Mr. Henry Karnes, of Cresswell township, brought us a sample of his wheat, raised on Major Sleeth’s farm. He had 40 acres of Walker wheat, which yielded 32 bushels to the acre. The wheat was bright and plump, and as fine as any we have ever seen.
Winfield Courier, November 17, 1881.
Major Sleeth spent several days of last week in the city as a witness before the court on the Lennox forgery case.
Cowley County Courant, November 17, 1881.
Maj. Sleeth is up from the head of nation, shaking hands with his many friends in this city.
Cowley County Courant, December 22, 1881.
W. M. Sleeth was appointed administrator of the estate of C. W. Drennan, deceased.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 30, 1881.
Building Association.
The above Association held a meeting last Friday evening and proceeded to organize forthwith into working shape. The results of the meeting being too voluminous for insertion in this body of paper, will be found embodied in the Supplement which is published this week, and to which we direct the attention of our readers.
CHARTER.
FIRST. The name of the corporation shall be "The Arkansas City Building and Loan Association of Arkansas City, in Cowley County, Kansas."
SECOND. The object of this association is the accumulation and loan of funds, the erection of buildings, and purchase and sale of real estate for the benefit of its members.
THIRD. The place where its business shall be transacted, shall be in Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas.
FOURTH. It shall exist until the monthly installments and interest, fines, and profits shall amount to one hundred dollars per share for each share of stock which shall be issued under its charter, and not to exceed twenty-one years.
FIFTH. The number of its directors shall be nine. Those elected for the first year shall be W. M. Sleeth, T. McIntire, H. D. Kellogg, I. H. Bonsall, J. T. Shepard, Wm. Kreamer, John Williams, Marshall Felton, and Jas. Benedict.
SIXTH. The amount of its capital stock shall be $50,000, to be divided into two series of two hundred and fifty shares of $100 each, to be paid in monthly installments of one dollar per share. The capital stock shall be issued in two series of twenty-five thousand dollars each, at such times as the association by its by-laws may provide and direct.
NOTE: BY-LAWS HAD 13 ARTICLES.
Winfield Courier, December 15, 1881.
Major Sleeth took in our city again last week.
Excerpts from a long article...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 21, 1881.
OUR CANAL.
Last week witnessed the completion of an undertaking that will exert an influence on the future of Arkansas City, and raise her to a pinnacle of commercial prosperity far beyond what even the most sanguine of our citizens dared to hope for but one short year ago.
It is now nearly a year since the canal project, now so successfully completed, was broached, and the accomplished fact of today, at that time, was deemed by many, a dream of Utopia. The undertaking of a scheme of such engineering and financial magnitude by so small a corporation is almost without a precedent, and the canal today is a living witness to the pluck, energy, and skill of the citizens of Arkansas City, . . . .
A description of this undertaking we think will be of interest to all our readers, and we, therefore, present, in as concise a form as possible, the facts in connection therewith. As was said before, the project was inaugurated by the procuring of a charter, bearing date of
January 12th, 1881,
with Messrs. James Hill, R. C. Haywood, W. M. Sleeth, A. A. Newman, and S. Matlack, all citizens of this city, as the charter members. The capital stock of the company was
FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS,
that being the estimate, and the sequel has proved the actual cost of the enterprise. . . .
Cowley County Courant, January 5, 1882.
W. M. Sleeth appointed administrator of the estate of Thos. Hart, deceased.
Cowley County Courant, February 9, 1882.
Wm. M. Sleeth, administrator of the estate of Calvin W. Drennan, deceased, has filed an inventory of the effects.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 8, 1882.
Creswell Primary.
At the primary held in this city last Saturday, the following ticket was put in nomination for Creswell Township.
Trustee: U. Spray.
Clerk: W. D. Mowry.
Treasurer: W. M. Sleeth.
Justices: I. H. Bonsall and T. McIntire.
Constables: G. H. McIntire and J. J. Breene.
This ticket was elected by a large majority.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 15, 1882.
Creswell Township Officers.
The following shows the result of the election, held February 7th, 1882, for Township officers. There were 190 votes polled as follows.
Trustee—U. Spray, 189.
Clerk—W. D. Mowry, 186.
Treasurer—W. M. Sleeth, 188.
Justices—I. H. Bonsall, 179. T. McIntire, 166.
Constables—G. H. McIntire, 197. J. J. Breene, 136.
There were some scattering votes cast for different parties, but there being only one ticket in the field it is needless to publish them.
Excerpt...
Cowley County Courant, May 18, 1882.
The Republican county convention to elect delegates to the congressional convention to be held at Emporia on the 24th inst., met at Manning’s Hall at 11 o’clock Saturday. The convention was called to order by D. A. Millington, chairman of the county central committee, who read the call. On motion of T. H. Soward, H. D. Gans was elected temporary chairman and J. V. Hines temporary secretary.
Excerpt...
[COUNTY CONVENTION.]
Winfield Courier, May 18, 1882.
On motion, committees were appointed as follows.
Permanent Organization: S. Matlack, N. W. Dressie, R. M. Patten, S. Phoenix, and W. M. Sleeth.
Creswell Township, Delegates: G. S. Rorick, W. M. Sleeth, Theo. Fairclo, R. H. Reed, Uriah Spray, W. H. Speers, S. Matlack. Alternates: A. Dunn, O. J. Pickering, J. Barnett, R. J. Maxwell, Chas. France, J. L. Huey, John Williams.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 24, 1882.
Several Lies Nailed.
CRESWELL TOWNSHIP, May 20th, 1882.
Ed. Traveler: Permit me space in your paper to reply to an article which appeared in last week’s Democrat. It is so evidently the work of spleen, and comes so near to downright intentional lying that I do not feel it right to let it pass. The article referred to is headed "A Pretty Kettle of Fish," but it is too wordy for reproduction here.
In the first place the issue was not Hackney, or anti-Hackney, but Whiskey, or anti-Whiskey—such issue being made secretly by a few persons; and some good temperance men put on the ticket to give it tone, and the Democrat know such to be the case.
Secondly—Creswell Township was represented in the Convention by the ticket elected with the exceptions shown below, the reason of which exceptions will be seen by the following extracts from the report of the Committee on Credentials.
Creswell Township: Delegates—G. S. Rarick, W. M. Sleeth, T. Fairclo, R. H. Reed, U. Spray, W. H. Speers, S. Matlack. Alternates—A. Dunn, A. J. Pickering, I. Barnett, R. J. Maxwell, Chas. France, J. L. Huey, John Williams.
We further recommend that J. B. Nipp cast the vote for R. H. Reed, that C. M. Scott cast the vote for U. Spray, and Calvin Swarts cast the vote for W. H. Speers for Creswell Township in this convention, those delegates and their alternates being absent.
Why the Democrat is so worked up on a Republican issue, and goes for Mr. Bonsall by name, is more than we can tell, unless it is on account of its editor being so badly scooped by the people when he ran against Bonsall for Police Judge a few weeks since.
ONE OF THE PEOPLE.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 31, 1882.
Election Notice.
To the qualified voters of Creswell Township, Cowley County, Kansas.
NOTICE is hereby given in pursuance of a petition heretofore duly presented to the Township Board of said township, that on the 24th day of June, A. D., 1882, between the hours of 8 o’clock A. M. and 6 o’clock P. M., of said day at the usual place of holding elections in, and for said Creswell Township, Cowley County, Kansas, a special election of the qualified voters of the said township will be held for the purpose of voting upon a proposition to issue the bonds of said Creswell Township, in the amount of two thousand dollars ($2,000) payable with the interest thereon at the Fiscal Agency of the State of Kansas, in the city of New York City, New York. Said bonds to bear interest at the rate of seven percentum per annum, payable semi-annually and said bonds to be payable in not less than five nor more than thirty years, and said bonds to be issued and used for the purpose of building a bridge across the Arkansas River in said Creswell Township, at the following point, to-wit: From the south end of the new portion of the bridge commonly known as the Arkansas River bridge, now extending partly across said Arkansas River, about three-eights of one mile west from the range line, between ranges three and four east, in Cowley County, Kansas, to the south and right bank of said river. Said special election to be conducted according to the general election laws of this State, and those voting in favor of building the bridge as aforesaid shall have written or printed on their ballots "For the bridge and bonds," and those opposed, "Against the bridge and bonds." By order of township Board, Arkansas City, Kansas. Uriah Spray, Trustee. Wm. Sleeth, Treasurer, W. C. Mowry, Clerk.
May 30th, 1882.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 2, 1882.
Major Haworth, U. S. Inspector of Indian schools, was in the city last week, and in company with Messrs. A. A. Newman and Sleeth, drove into the Territory south of town, to spy out the country with a view to the selection of a 1,280 tract of good farming land for the location of the Indian Industrial School, for which the necessary appropriation of $25,000 has been made.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 16, 1882.
REED-HUTCHISON.
MARRIED. Last Thursday evening was consummated one of the expected events in our society—the marriage of Saml. B. Reed and Anna M. Hutchison. The ceremony was performed at 9 o’clock by Rev. S. B. Fleming, at the residence of the bride’s parents, in the presence of a few of the relatives and friends. The TRAVELER only re-echoes the many kind wishes for life long happiness.
Below is given a list of the presents as far as could be obtained.
Silk embroidered easy chair: Mr. and Mrs. W. M. Sleeth.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 23, 1882.
DIED. David Sleeth died on last Monday at 11 o’clock p.m., at the residence of his brother, Maj. W. M. Sleeth, and was buried on yesterday at 2 o’clock p.m. Mr. Sleeth was one of the oldest settlers of Arkansas City, and was well known by all the readers of the TRAVELER.
Winfield Courier, August 31, 1882.
Arkansas City News.
EDS. COURIER: A rather unusual occurrence happened in our city August 22nd. Two funeral services took place in the First Presbyterian Church, S. B. Fleming officiating. The first, at 10 a.m., was over the remains of Mrs. E. Watson, who has resided in this place for the last five or six years and carried on the business of a milliner. I believe she had no relatives in this country, was a widow, and somewhat advanced in years. Her disease was consumption.
The other, at 2 p.m., was that of David Sleeth, the brother of Major William Sleeth, our banker. He was an old resident. The Sleeth brothers came to Cowley in 1869, I believe. The deceased was a bachelor between 45 and 50 years of age. His disease was catarrh of the head. His death was not unexpected, as he has been in bad health for a year or two.
[August 8, 1883, issue: monument placed on grave of David Sleeth. See item.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 1, 1882.
The following pupils were neither absent nor tardy during the last school month: Willie Davis, Lorenzo Gilbert, Purley Clifton, Arthur Ware, Nettie Jordan, Carry Fairclo, Ida Beecham, Allie Davis, Eddie Mott, Byron Hubbard, Cliff Hardy, Cora McIntire, Maggie Sleeth, Willie Barnett. SUSIE L. HUNT, Teacher.
[ELECTION: BONDS TO BUILD A BRIDGE ACROSS ARKANSAS RIVER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1882.
Election Notice.
To the qualified voters of Creswell Township, Cowley County, Kansas.
NOTICE is hereby given in pursuance of a petition hereunto duly presented to the Township Board of said township, that on the 7th day of December, A. D., 1882, between the hours of 8 o’clock a.m. and 6 o’clock p.m. of said day at the usual place of holding elections in and for said Creswell township, Cowley County, Kansas, a special election of the qualified voters of the said township will be held for the purpose of voting upon a proposition to issue the bonds of said Creswell township, in the amount of four thousand dollars ($4,000), payable with the interest thereon at the Fiscal Agency of the State of Kansas, in the city of New York City, New York. Said bonds bear interest at the rate of seven per centum per annum, payable semi-annually, and said bonds not to be payable in not less than five years nor more than thirty years, and said bonds to be issued and used for the purpose of building a bridge across the Arkansas river in said Creswell township, at the following point, to-wit: At or near the Southwest corner of section twenty-five (25) of township thirty four (34) south of Range three (3) east or as near thereto as practicable.
Said special election to be conducted according to the general election laws of this State, and those voting in favor of building of the bridge as aforesaid shall have written or printed on their ballot: "For the bridge and bonds," and those opposed "Against the bridge and bonds." By order of township Board, Arkansas City, Kansas.
S. J. Mantor, Trustee. Wm. Sleeth, Treasurer. W. D. Mowry, Clerk.
Nov. 12, 1882.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 6, 1882.
The following pupils were neither absent nor tardy, without an excuse, during the last school month: Willie Davis, Robbie Gaskill, Purley Clifton, Charlie Smith, Cliff Hardy, Lenna Taylor, Attie Fairclo, Ida Beecham, Jamie Fleming, Allie Davis, Eddie Mott, Lee Crebbs, Arthur Ware, Nettie Jordon, Carry Fairclo, Maggie Sleeth, Johnnie Young, Curtis Cooper. SUSIE L. HUNT, Teacher.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1882.
Maj. Sleeth was in the city Saturday.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 27, 1882.
Bennett Chapter No. 41, R. A. M., at its meeting last Tuesday evening, elected the following gentlemen as officers for the ensuing year.
ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO READ NAMES LET ALONE TITLES.
WILL TRY FOR NAMES ONLY: J. L. Huey, A. A. Newman, L. McLaughlin, O. P. Houghton, W. D. Mowry, Jas. Benedict, J. Ridenour, C. Hutchins, H. P. Farrar. W. M. Sleeth, A. T. Shepard, N. W. Kimmel.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 7, 1883.
At the Republican caucus held in this city last Saturday, the following gentlemen were put in nomination for township officers.
For Trustee: J. B. Nipp.
For Treasurer: W. M. Sleeth.
For Clerk: W. D. Mowry.
Constables: G. H. McIntire; J. J. Breene.
As we go to press we learn the ticket was elected.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 14, 1883.
The following are the Creswell Township Officers for the current year: J. B. Nipp, Trustee; W. M. Sleeth, Treasurer; W. D. Mowry, Clerk; G. H. McIntire and J. J. Breene, Constables.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, April 18, 1883.
Railroad Meeting.
There was a call for the businessmen of the city and country to meet at McLaughlin’s Hall at 4 o’clock, April 13th, to take into consideration the building of a railroad from Arkansas City, Kansas, to Coffeyville, Kansas, and west as far as Caldwell, and farther, if desired.
Meeting called to order by Dr. Chapel; T. H. McLaughlin appointed Chairman and Wm. Blakeney, Secretary. Chair called for remarks.
James Hill being asked to state, in full, the object of the meeting, spoke in a clear and forcible manner of the great advantages that a railroad would do us, as a city and country, running along so near the Territory line, making a direct road from this city to St. Louis, thereby saving much time and expense in getting our stock and grain to a good market. Mr. Hill also stated that if we were not up and doing, other cities would take all the things of advantage to themselves, building up their cities and counties, and we would be left out in the cold.
Rev. Fleming spoke on the question with much earnestness, advising that whatever was done be done at once. Many spoke very freely on the question, all taking a deep interest in doing something to help make our city a better city and our county a better county.
After the project being understood, a committee, comprising James Hill and Dr. Chapel, was appointed to solicit bonds, along the line, from the cities and counties. Another committee was also appointed to solicit funds to meet the expense of surveying. Committee: James Huey, E. D. Eddy, N. T. Snyder, and Wm. Sleeth. Motion made to adjourn.
WM. BLAKENEY, Secretary.
[RAILROAD MEETING.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 9, 1883.
In accordance with notice duly given a number of our citizens gathered at McLaughlin’s Hall last Monday evening to talk over railroad matters in general, and to take the necessary steps towards securing an east and west railroad to this point in particular. The meeting was called to order and T. H. McLaughlin was called to take the Chair, and N. T. Snyder to act as Secretary of the meeting. About the first thing brought before the attention of the meeting was a proposition from Winfield stating what they desired in order to enable them to work with us in securing county bonds in aid of an eastern road. The proposition, which was signed by several leading citizens of Winfield, was in substance as follows.
"That Winfield would do all in her power to aid us in working for said road and in securing county bonds in aid of the enterprise, provided that said road should enter the county in the vicinity of Cedarvale, then running on the most practicable route to WINFIELD from there to GEUDA SPRINGS and then to Arkansas City."
This proposition was received with tremendous cheers, but after quite a lengthy talk, failing to elicit whether it was submitted as a joke or in sober earnest, it was unanimously resolved by the meeting that it be tabled. Mr. A. A. Newman then submitted a resolution in substance as follows.
Resolved. That the citizens of Arkansas City would pledge themselves to do all in their power to secure county aid in bonds to a railroad which would enter the county from the east in the vicinity of Cedarvale, thence proceed towards Dexter, near which, and at a point equidistant from Winfield and Arkansas City, the road should divide into two branches, one of which should go to each town, both towns to be named as temporary terminal points, and the further westward course of the road, whether from Winfield or Arkansas City, to be decided by the interests of the road as developed in the future.
The resolution was unanimously adopted by the meeting, and Messrs. James Hill and Wm. P. Sleeth were appointed as a committee to lay the same before the citizens of Winfield at an early day. It was further taken as the sentiment of the meeting that no time be lost in prosecuting the matter towards securing an east and west railroad, and the two gentlemen last named were delegated to see that all steps necessary to be taken, with this end in view, be promptly attended to. The meeting also authorized a per centum of the money subscribed for a preliminary survey to be appropriated for the payment of the incidental expenses of the committee. The meeting adjourned after being in session about two hours.
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
Proceedings have been inaugurated by J. Wade McDonald, attorney, to condemn the water in the river above the Winfield Mills for the purposes of the City Waterworks, and Judge Torrance has appointed to appraise the damages R. F. Burden, G. L. Gale, and W. M. Sleeth.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1883.
U. P. Social at Mrs. Sleeth’s residence next Friday night.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1883.
The ladies of the U. P. Church will give a social in honor of the arrival of Rev. J. O. Campbell, Friday evening, June 22nd, at the residence of Maj. Sleeth. Everybody invited.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 27, 1883.
We understand that the social at Mrs. Sleeth’s last Friday was unusually well attended and that a most pleasant and social time was enjoyed.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1883.
Messrs. Gale, Burden, and Sleeth, the commissioners appointed to condemn the water privilege for the Water Company, met Thursday and made the awards. Bliss & Wood were allowed twenty dollars as their share of the damage, the Tunnel Mill ten dollars. None of the mills were present to put forward their claims and it is understood will contest in the courts the right of the Water Company to take what they have before legally acquired.
[VIEWING ARKANSAS CITY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1883.
We took a trip Friday to Arkansas City—the first for a number of months. The improvement was striking. Through the courtesy of Major Sleeth, we viewed the city from the top of "Highland Hall," a splendid new opera house in process of erection. The scenery was lovely. Spreading out at our feet was the little city, with its hundreds of pleasant homes embowered in leafy clouds of maple and cottonwood, while away in the distance the courses of the Walnut and Arkansas, marked by a dark green line through which their waters gleamed like sheets of silver, came crawling along down past the town until the two met below. Back of this were the green prairies, dotted now with a darker spot of waving corn, again broken by a stretch of trembling gold, already falling before a busy harvester. It was a scene which only Kansans can enjoy, and a scene at its best only in our favored State. The city is enjoying a "boom" of no small dimensions. Many new residences are going up and new business blocks are being projected. Messrs. Sleeth and Farrar have plans completed for a large and handsome bank. The designs are elaborate and the building will be one of the finest of the kind in the State. Winfield Courier.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 8, 1883.
A very elegant monument has been placed over the grave of the late David Sleeth in the Parker Cemetery, which takes the form of a column twelve feet in height surmounted by an urn. The base of the monument bears the name, age, and date of death of the sleeper who reposes beneath. The monument was supplied by Mr. W. B. Caton, of Winfield, and as a work of art is much to be admired.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 10, 1883.
HIGHLAND HALL.
Grand Opening of the New Opera House.
For many years the need of a public hall large enough to accommodate the rapidly growing population of our city, and to serve as an inducement to the best class of opera and theatrical entertainments traveling through this state, has constantly presented itself to our citizens, and many have been the suggestions pointing toward securing such an institution. It was not until the latter part of May, 1882, however, that the movements began to assume tangible shape, when a stock company of nearly all our businessmen was organized with an authorized capital of $10,000, for the purpose of erecting and furnishing a first-class opera house. H. P. Farrar, to whom probably more than any other one man, is due especial credit for the admirable manner in which the work has been carried on, was chosen as secretary and treasurer, the multitudinous cares of which office he has conducted with signal ability. The contract for building the hall was let to Sargent & Smith, of Topeka, for the sum of $12,400, which figures included but the building and stage. To this expense has been added that of such necessaries as chairs, scenery, gas machinery, piping, fixtures, etc., for the hall upstairs, and the expense of fitting out the three large store rooms underneath, with their excavations, basements, counters, sidewalks, awnings, plate glass, and the countless items contingent upon such a structure, until now the entire cost of our beautiful hall foots up the neat little sum of $19,700. For this amount our citizens have the finest opera house outside of Emporia or Topeka, with a stage large enough to accommodate the largest troupes traveling, the finest and most elaborate scenery, acoustic properties second to none in the country, and an auditorium capable of comfortably seating 700 people.
The stock in the Highland Hall company, which was at first held by nearly all our businessmen, is now owned by some twelve or fifteen parties; the heavier owners being Messrs. J. L. Huey, H. P. Farrar, T. H. McLaughlin, W. M. Sleeth, Stacy Matlack, O. P. Houghton, J. B. Nipp, Schiffbauer Bros., and J. T. Shepard. The other stockholders, and the citizens in general, have never let their interest flag in this enterprise from the first up to last Saturday night, when the opera house was thrown open for its initial entertainment, and the pride and joy in this valuable acquisition to our city is universal.
THE OPENING.
Though the gas machine, chairs, and reflector for the ceiling have not yet arrived, the chance for opening the hall with a good entertainment, so opportunely presented by the Union Square Theater company, was accepted, and every effort made to supply all deficiencies. The result was all that could have been wished. Though the afternoon was rainy, and darkness ushered in a terrific storm, the hall was filled last Saturday night to witness the excellent presentation of "Uncle Reuben Lowder" by the Union Square Theater company, whose performance was a credit to themselves, to the large and fashionable audience, and to the signal event of opening such a house. Monday night was a repeater in the way of attendance and satisfaction, when the ever ready "French Spy" was admirably placed before our people, preceded by the laughable farce, "Barnaby Bibbs." Last night was given up to the enjoyment of "Widow Bedott," and followed by a grand ball. Tonight we will have "Rip Van Winkle," a play that always holds a strong place in the hearts of Americans, and in which Mr. Jay Carner unquestionably rivals the renowned Jefferson. Let the attendance tonight equal that of the three preceding nights, and let the opening of our magnificent hall end as it began—in a blaze of light and glory.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 2, 1884.
The Fuller ranch of 3,000 acres of land on Rock Creek, south of Maple City, was sold last week to Messrs. Taylor, Wilkie, Martin, and others, of Cambridge, Ohio, for $21,000. The same gentlemen got Messrs. Libby & Moody to "set a price" on their farm of 800 acres, which was "set" at $10,000. They purchased that also. Also a ranch in Greenwood County. The gentlemen are friends of Maj. Sleeth, C. M. Scott, and others here and are good substantial men.
Winfield Courier, January 10, 1884.
From the Traveler we learn that the Fuller Ranch of 3,000 acres of land on Rock Creek, south of Maple City, was sold last week to Messrs. Taylor, Wilkie, Martin, and others, of Cambridge, Ohio, for $21,000. The same gentleman got Messrs. Libby and Moody to "set a price" on their farm of 800 acres, which was "set" at $10,000. They purchased that also. Also a ranch in Greenwood County. The gentlemen are friends of Maj. Sleeth, C. M. Scott, and others there and are good, substantial men. This is the old Hackney & McDonald tract, which they sold some two years ago to Mr. Fuller for $8,000.
[COWLEY COUNTY BANK.]
Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1884.
COWLEY COUNTY BANK.
The Finest Bank Building in Southern Kansas.
Last Monday morning the Cowley County Bank, one of the oldest and most substantial financial institutions of this county, opened up in their new building on the northwest corner of Summit Street and Fifth Avenue. The progress of this building has been watched with unflagging interest by all of our citizens, as from the first it gave promise of being the finest thing of its kind in the southwest, and is something of which our city may justly feel proud. It is a two-story building with basement, built of the finest pressed brick and dressed stone, surmounted by a tower twenty feet in height, the whole presenting a most imposing appearance. Every detail of its construction points to superior workmanship, good judgment, and taste, with a most admirable arrangement for the transaction of the bank’s business and for the accommodation of those renting the office departments upstairs and down.
The basement (half of which is above ground) consists of two large, well lighted and ventilated rooms, with none of the drawbacks of an ordinary basement. One of these rooms is already rented. The first floor proper consists of three rooms. The front room is 25 x 37 feet, and is used for the public business of the bank. The interior finish of this room is in keeping with the general neatness of the entire building, the office furniture, counters, etc., being of cherry wood finished in finest French plate and ornamental tops. In the southeast corner of this room is a neat alcove compartment handsomely carpeted and separated from the main room by a heavy, low railing, for the accommodation of customers desiring to wait a few minutes. In the rear of the main room is the bank’s private room, 25 x 18 feet, and adjoining this room, with its entrance on Fifth Avenue, is an office room, 20 x 25 feet, which will be for rent when finished. The second story contains seven commodious office rooms, which for the use of professional men have no equal in this county.
Altogether it is the finest bank edifice in Southern Kansas, not excepting those of Wichita even, and speaks volumes for the credit, stability, and enterprise of Messrs. Farrar and Sleeth. The expenses of its construction so far has been about $12,000, in return for which outlay these gentlemen have now a building that would do credit to any city in the land, and one whose rental will bring in a handsome revenue.
[TOWNSHIP ELECTION RESULTS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 13, 1884.
Township Election.
The following shows the result of the election held on the 5th inst. There were eight tickets in the field, and the total vote polled was 444.
TRUSTEE: M. N. Sinnott, 288; Uriah Spray, 152.
CLERK: W. D. Mowry, 348; M. B. Vawter, 88.
TREASURER: J. L. Huey, 184; H. P. Farrar, 125; W. M. Sleeth, 122.
JUSTICES: Frank Schiffbauer, 264; W. D. Kreamer, 208; P. F. Endicott, 133; J. B. Tucker, 130; I. H. Bonsall, 107.
CONSTABLES: J. J. Breene, 257; J. S. Lewis, 202; J. E. Beck, 178; J. N. Huston, 118; W. J. Gray, 113.
Excerpt from very long article...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 16, 1884.
ARKANSAS CITY AND SURROUNDINGS.
Her Facilities for Manufactures and Inducements to Capitalists.
Her Live Businessmen.
Between the confluence of the Walnut and Arkansas Rivers, in the southern part of Cowley County, Kansas, and possessing about three thousand inhabitants, lies Arkansas City, destined at no very future day to be the city of distribution for the great southwest. It is no idle saying which causes this to be asserted. Her natural advantages are equaled by no other city in this quarter of the globe. Passing along her southern boundary, from the Arkansas to the Walnut Rivers, is a canal, whose water power capacity is unsurpassed in the entire west. This enterprise was inaugurated in 1881, by the Arkansas City Water Power Company, consisting of A. A. Newman, Jas. Hill, W. M. Sleeth, and S. Matlack.
[STOCK COMPANY FORMED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 20, 1884.
Commercial Building Association.
The above is the name of a new stock company formed in this city last week, the charter members of which are M. S. Hasie, George E. Hasie, W. M. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, A. A. Newman, T. H. McLaughlin, George W. Cunningham, and T. R. Houghton. The immediate object of this company is the erection of a building on Summit street, just south of Cunningham’s new implement house, 125 feet front, 132 feet deep, and three stories high. The TRAVELER mentioned last week the fact that the Messrs. Hasie were to put up a commodious business structure, and when these gentlemen showed the design of their building to the gentlemen directly interested in the lots, and the suggestion was made that one solid block be built, the plan at once commended itself to all parties as one in keeping with the growth of our city. We have seen the plans for Messrs. Hasie’s part of the block, and must say they are very elaborate. It is of the style now most generally adopted by the San Francisco builders, known as the bay front style, above the first story. On the second story front are three bay windows, the center one square and the side windows octagonal. The front and rear of the first story will be almost entirely of glass, in order to get sufficient light to accommodate the great length. The height of the first story from ceiling to floor will be seventeen feet, the second fourteen, and the third twelve, and a ten foot basement runs the entire length. This will doubtless be the style adopted for the complete block, which, taken with the admirable interior arrangements, will make the Commercial and Hasie blocks the finest in Southern Kansas. The enterprise of the eight gentlemen comprising the Commercial Building Association speaks loudly to their credit, and will be a sure means of profit to themselves, not to mention the advantage accruing to the city in the way of advertising its business vim and prosperity.
Arkansas City Republican, February 23, 1884.
The Commercial Building Association.
On the 20th of this month, the Commercial Building Association of Arkansas City, Kansas, sprang into existence. Its incorporators: M. S. and Geo. E. Hasie, A. A. Newman, W. M. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, T. H. McLaughlin, T. R. Houghton, and G. W. Cunningham. At the first meeting Geo. E. Hasie was elected president, and H. P. Farrar, secretary and treasurer. The first work of the association will be the erection of a building 75 feet in frontage, 132 feet in depth, and three stories high, between the business houses of the Hasie Bros., and G. W. Cunningham. In connection with the storeroom of the Hasie Bros., this will make the finest building in our city. The two structures—the association’s and the Messrs. Hasie’s—will form one solid building 125 feet in frontage, 132 feet in depth, and three stories high. This enterprise displays the energy of our businessmen and the importance, to capitalists, of our rapidly growing city.
Arkansas City Republican, March 1, 1884.
If there be one who doubts the military ability of Major W. M. Sleeth, that one is not the editor of THE REPUBLICAN. With a celerity that would have done credit to a Sheridan, last Monday evening, he swooped down on our sanctum with a force to whom brave old Gen. Sherman would have surrendered unconditionally. Having stationed his forces satisfactorily to himself, he adopted the Joe Johnson method and disappeared from the field. The editor was on the point of hasty capitulation, when Mr. Geo. E. Hasie opportunely descended. Embracing the opportunity, he introduced him to the ladies, Mrs. Sleeth, Mrs. Shepherd, Mrs. Kellogg, and Mrs. Alexander. With the grace of a Chesterfield, he acknowledged the compliment, and materially aided us in entertaining our fair visitors. After expressing their loyalty to that section, whence each came, they departed leaving our place of abode more gloomy, by contrast, than before. We trust their visits will not be like those of angels—few and far between.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth sold his land adjoining the townsite on the east, containing 866 acres, last Saturday, to Messrs. J. P. and A. B. Johnson, for $12,000 spot cash.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Stockholders of the Commercial Building Association, Arkansas City.
This association, of which we gave particulars in a former issue, is now in readiness for active work, all its shares being taken, as will be seen by the following list of stockholders.
Name, Shares, Amount.
Geo. E. Hasie, 20, $2,000
M. S. Hasie, 20, $2,000
A. A. Newman, 20, $2,000
G. W. Cunningham, 20, $2,000
H. P. Farrar, 20, $2,000
W. M. Sleeth, 20, $2,000
T. R. Houghton, 20, $2,000
J. L. Huey, 20, $2,000
T. H. McLaughlin, 10, $1,000
F. J. Hess, 5, $500
J. C. Topliff, 5, $500
W. S. Houghton, 5, $500
Kimmel & Moore, 5, $500
Howard Bros., 5, $500
A. J. Chapel, 5, $500
TOTAL SHARES: 200. TOTAL AMOUNT: $20,000
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Railroad Meeting.
A railroad meeting was called on last Monday, March 3, at I. H. Bonsall’s office, for the purpose of considering the narrow gauge proposition now before the people and taking steps to insure its defeat. Mr. T. McIntire was made chairman and I. H. Bonsall secretary. A resolution to the effect that the interests of Cowley County demanded the defeat of this proposition was read and unanimously endorsed, and the following committee was appointed to raise funds to defray the expenses of canvassing the county: A. A. Newman, W. M. Sleeth, James Benedict, T. H. McLaughlin, and J. L. Huey. Messrs. A. A. Wiley, J. B. Nipp, A. J. Chapel, O. S. Rarick, T. H. McLaughlin, and N. T. Snyder were appointed as committee on arrangements with power to select sub-committees, to take whatever steps may be deemed necessary to accomplish the object of the meeting. The meeting then adjourned to next Saturday at 2 p.m. at Highland Hall, when we hope to see a general turn out of businessmen and farmers.
Arkansas City Republican, March 8, 1884.
Railroad Meeting.
A railroad meeting was called last Monday, March 3, to take measures for defeating the proposition to vote county bonds for the narrow gauge railroad next Tuesday. A motion was made that the voters of Creswell Township vote against said proposition, and was carried unanimously. On motion, the following committees were appointed by the chair:
A. A. Newman, Wm. M. Sleeth, Jas. Benedict, T. H. McLaughlin, and Jas. L. Huey were appointed as a committee to raise funds to pay the expenses of canvassing the county.
A. A. Wiley, J. B. Nipp, A. J. Chapel, O. S. Rarick, T. H. McLaughlin, and N. T. Snyder were appointed a committee on arrangements, with power to select sub-committees to canvass and make any arrangements necessary to accomplish the object of the meeting.
The meeting then adjourned to convene today, at 2 p.m., at Highland Hall, when we hope to see a good crowd assembled.
Arkansas City Republican, March 15, 1884.
The late musical convention, held by Prof. Seager, has thoroughly aroused our people to the importance of musical culture. . . .
We most heartily welcome this new enterprise, the Arkansas City Choral society, perfected at a meeting held in the U. P. Church on last Wednesday evening.
The following is a list of the officers and executive committee: Pres., Wm. M. Sleeth; Vice Pres., Rev. S. B. Fleming; Sec. and Treas., J. O. Campbell; Musical Director, W. D. Mowry; Asst. Musical Director, Rev. Harris. Executive Committee: Geo. E. Hasie, Rev. Harris, R. L. Marshall, Mrs. Cunningham, Miss Ella Love.
The society starts out with fifty-six charter members. It meets on next Wednesday evening in the Presbyterian Church at 7:30 o’clock.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 26, 1884.
The Arkansas City Choral Society.
The above society met at the First Presbyterian Church on last Wednesday evening and perfected its organization by the election of the following officers.
President: W. M. Sleeth.
Vice President: S. B. Fleming.
Secretary and Treasurer: J. O. Campbell.
Musical Director: W. D. Mowry.
Assistant Directors: H. H. Harris, S. G. Phillips.
Pianist: Miss Grace Medbury.
Assistant Pianist. Mrs. G. W. Cunningham.
Librarian: Andrew Dalzell.
THIS WAS FOLLOWED BY CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS, WHICH I SKIPPED.
Arkansas City Republican, April 5, 1884.
Hon. A. J. Pyburn: Though aware of your repeated refusal to become a candidate for any office; and the determination to devote your time to your profession, and although cognizant of the fact that an election and acceptance would involve to a certain extent the sacrifice of personal interests, yet we request and urge that you permit your name to be used in nomination for the position of mayor of Arkansas City, feeling as we do, that in your election, you will represent the whole people regardless of politics, issues, or business, and have only at heart the best interests of the place, and welfare of the citizens.
One of those who signed petition for Pyburn to serve: W. M. Sleeth.
GENTLEMEN: Your call upon me to allow my name to be used in nomination for mayor of the city, is before me. Coming as it does from representative businessmen of our city, irrespective of party, I assure you of my profound appreciation of the motives that prompted it. And could I, in duty to my private and personal business interests, I should feel bound to accede to your demands, but this I can not do, and must therefore, respectfully decline to become a candidate. Very Respectfully, A. J. PYBURN.
[BRIDGE MEETING.]
Winfield Courier, April 24, 1884.
On last Saturday afternoon a large meeting was held in the Courthouse for the purpose of discussing the feasibility of the County purchasing the various bridges built over the Walnut and Arkansas Rivers and one over Timber Creek, all of which have been built by the Townships and by individual subscriptions; and also building some others much needed in different portions of the county. It being a fact that all the costly bridges built in the County up to the present time having been built exclusively by the townships and by individual subscriptions, the county itself never having invested a single dollar in any of them, cannot under our present laws expend a single dollar in repair on said bridges, and the burden of keeping them in repair by the townships has become a very onerous one and in consideration of the fact that several townships having control of said bridges, are desirous of selling said bridges to the county for a normal sum, say for one dollar ($1.00) apiece, and thus shift the responsibility of keeping them in repair onto the county. It was thought best by many of the leading citizens, both of the city of Winfield, and also of the several townships, to call a meeting of citizens and discuss the feasibility of the change. The meeting was organized by calling C. A. Bliss to the chair, with H. H. Martin as secretary. A motion being carried that a committee of three be appointed by the chair to draft resolutions expressive of the sense of the meeting, Col. McMullen, William Moore, and Jessie Isenagle were appointed as said committee, who after some deliberation reported the following.
WHEREAS, There are many valuable bridges already built in the county, and
WHEREAS, These bridges have been erected at great cost by the townships building the same, and
WHEREAS, These bridges are kept in repair at the expense of said townships, and the same have become burdensome to the people by whom they were built, and in justice to the taxpayers of said locations ought to be transferred to the county,
Therefore, Resolved, That the county ought to own all the bridges within its limits valued at $500 dollars and over, and further,
Resolved, That it is the sense of this meeting—1st: That the county purchase and own all bridges of the value of $500 and over, and—2nd: erect others when the same may be necessary in the county, having in view the greatest good to the greatest number of people.
The above report of the committee was received and unanimously adopted.
A motion was then made, and carried, that it is the sense of this meeting, that a special election be called to submit to the qualified electors of Cowley County, Kansas, the question of the county purchasing all the bridges of the various townships owning bridges of the value of $500 and over at a nominal sum of, say one dollar ($1.00) each, and of building some others, and if the same cannot be done at a special election, that it be submitted to a vote of the qualified electors of the county at the next general election; if it is found upon further investigation that the county has the power under the law to purchase the same.
A motion being put and carried that a committee of three be appointed to confer with the county attorney in regard to the legality of calling a special election, or of submitting to the qualified electors of the county, the question of purchasing the bridges, and also to ascertain whether the county has the power under the law to purchase said bridges, and if so, to prepare through legal advice petitions to the county commissioners to call said election. L. F. Johnson, of Beaver, W. M. Sleeth, of Creswell, and H. H. Martin, of Vernon, were appointed as said committee, with instructions, if necessary, to call another meeting after such meeting adjourned sine die. C. A. BLISS, Chairman. H. H. MARTIN, Secretary.
[BRIDGES.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 26, 1884.
At a meeting last Saturday at the courthouse, in Winfield, held for the purpose of discussing the project of the county’s purchasing all the bridges built by the several townships, and costing $500 or over, for the nominal sum of $1.00, it was decided to be the sense of the persons assembled that such action be taken. A committee of three, consisting of L. F. Johnson, of Beaver; W. M. Sleeth, of Creswell; and H. H. Martin, of Vernon, were appointed to confer with the county attorney concerning the legality of calling a special election, or of submitting to the qualified electors of the county the question of purchasing the bridges and also to ascertain whether the county has the power under the law to purchase said bridges, and if so, to prepare through legal advice petitions to the county commissioners to call said election, and with instructions, if necessary, to call another meeting.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1884.
W. M. Sleeth was up from Arkansas City Wednesday, on business.
Arkansas City Republican, May 24, 1884.
Major W. M. Sleeth will go as a delegate to the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church, which convenes at St. Louis next Wednesday.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1884.
A lot on South Summit Street, opposite Major Sleeth’s residence, sold yesterday for $1,000. It was owned by I. H. Bonsall.
[SCHOOL FESTIVAL.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 7, 1884.
The teachers, patrons, friends, and pupils of our schools have decided to dispense with the literary entertainment, for the present, and substitute a social and festival. Accordingly the Perry House has been secured and active preparations are making for an agreeable and pleasant time. The young ladies of the school secured a considerable sum from our businessmen. This amount will be expended in strawberries, ice cream, lemonade, and other delicacies. The following committee on arrangements has been secured: Mrs. W. M. Sleeth, Mrs. A. Worthley, Mrs. H. P. Farrar, Mrs. J. L. Huey, Mrs. Beall, Mrs. C. T. Atkinson, Mrs. J. C. Loveland, and Mrs. C. A. Howard. The committee itself is sufficient guarantee for an excellent supper.
The supper, consisting of cold meats, cold chicken, cold turkey, light bread, rolls, buns, pickles, etc., will be served for 25 cents for each person. Ice cream and strawberries will be 10 cents a dish, extra. Gentlemen are requested not to wear buttonholes bouquets, as Misses Edna Worthley and Lida Whitney will preside over the flower stand, and be able to supply all wants. All are cordially invited to attend.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
Major Sleeth is erecting a fine stone curbing around his residence.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
Mrs. Sawyer and children, of Colorado, are visiting their relatives, Mr. Sleeth’s and Mrs. Theaker’s families.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
Major Sleeth returned a few days ago from St. Louis where he had been attending the General Assembly of the U. P. Church.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
The other day we came into possession of a copy of the Commercial Indicator, of Kansas City, dated December 25, 1879. We found within it the following, which as viewed in the light of today, seems well nigh prophetic.
Mr. W. M. Sleeth, president of the Cowley County Bank, Arkansas City, Kansas, writes to a gentleman of this city as follows.
"The railroad is all graded and the track is now laid to within six miles of our city, and will be all done and cars running in less than ten days. Our place will be the terminus till the right of way can be obtained through the Territory. We are now doing a fine business and the city is improving rapidly and our future prospects are bright. Next year the Texas cattle shipping will be from here and this point is most accessible to most of the agencies in the Territory and is sure of that business. If the Territory is opened for settlement as is now recommended, we are all right still, being at the junction of the Walnut and Arkansas rivers, and close to the Territory; a relation to it similar to that of Kansas City to Kansas, and Arkansas City will be to the Territory what Kansas City is to Kansas."
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
We are under obligations to Mrs. Sleeth and her aunt, Mrs. Sawyer, for the pleasure obtained from reading a war record and diary of Lieut. David Bell, an uncle of Mrs. Sleeth, and a brother of Mrs. Sawyer. The recruiting record is of especial interest to us, as it contains the names of many of the boys of 1861 to 1865, from our native place. The diary is a series of adventures undergone by Lieut. Bell after the war, while he was in the West. It contains a description of the survey of the southern boundary of Kansas, and what is of especial interest, so describes the land and streams that we readily recognize the places. One 4th of July was spent between two streams, one of which is the Arkansas; the other we infer to be the Walnut. They probably spent the day upon the town site, and then were the first to celebrate the birth of the republic on Arkansas City soil. The diary is well written; gives pleasure in the perusal, and well deserves printing for the preservation of the many interesting events contained within it.
Arkansas City Republican, June 21, 1884.
Major Sleeth has placed upon his stone curbing a handsome iron fence.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 2, 1884.
At the school meeting last Wednesday, Mrs. H. P. Farrar was elected to the position of director, by an almost unanimous vote. Major Sleeth, Dr. Kellogg, and Mrs. Worthley received one vote each, the balance being cast for Mrs. Farrar.
Arkansas City Republican, July 5, 1884.
Mr. A. M. Amos, of Caldwell, Ohio, through the politeness of Major Sleeth, favored us with a pleasant call Tuesday. He was former editor of the Citizen’s Press, but now is a member of the Caldwell Live Stock Association. This company recently purchased 30,000 acres of land near Maple City, and 18,000 acres in Greenwood County; and Mr. Amos was here investigating the tracts. He is so well pleased with Cowley that he has thought of making this his home.
Arkansas City Republican, August 2, 1884.
One of Major Sleeth’s children has been quite ill this week.
[DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, September 25, 1884.
CIVIL DOCKET. SECOND DAY.
13. Wm. M. Sleeth vs. Sarah A. Drennan et al.
14. Byron Farrar vs. Sarah A. Drennan et al.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1884.
Arkansas City Woolen Manufacturing Company.
A meeting of the stockholders in the above enterprise was held in the Cowley County Bank Monday evening, and a stock company formed for the purpose of erecting and operating a woolen mill on our canal. The capital stock is $40,000. Mr. J. H. Gordon, who with Mr. Sanborn visited this city a few weeks since in the interest of a woolen mill, has been here about two weeks talking up the matter, and left yesterday morning for his home in Missouri. A charter for the company will be secured at once. The stockholders in this enterprise comprise our most solid businessmen. The directors for the first year are James Hill, J. H. Gordon, J. L. Huey, H. P. Farrar, W. M. Sleeth, A. A. Newman, and T. H. McLaughlin. The work will be pushed as rapidly as possible, and in a few months the busy hum of our woolen mill will be heard by the finest water power in the state, furnishing employment to more than forty operatives and starting Arkansas City firmly on the road as a manufacturing city.
One of the Stockholders: W. M. Sleeth.
Details relative to John A. Logan mentioned earlier...
Arkansas City Republican, October 4, 1884.
Maj. Sleeth was under John A. Logan for three months during the Rebellion.
Arkansas City Republican, October 4, 1884.
Mrs. Maj. Sleeth and little son, who have been visiting in Ohio, returned home last Saturday. Master Sleeth saw John A. Logan and pronounced him a much handsomer man than his photo, which we see so often.
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
Frank Dunham, manager of the New Jersey Cattle Company, with Maj. Sleeth, gave the REPUBLICAN a call Thursday. Mr. Dunham informs us that the company at present has 1,200 cattle, but are buying all the time. He came here two weeks ago from New Jersey. The ranch is located 30 miles southeast of Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, November 15, 1884.
Mac Hammond, a cattle man of Harrison County, Ohio, was in the city the first of the week. Mr. Hammond is a friend of Maj. Sleeth and was here looking up a location. He was very much pleased with our city and surrounding country. He may possibly conclude to return here and become a permanent resident in a short time.
Arkansas City Republican, November 22, 1884.
Several days ago Major Sleeth wrote to Messrs. Gordon & Sanborn, our woolen mill projectors to report here. The first of the week the Major received word from Mr. Gordon that he would be here in a few days. We can almost hear the hum of the spindle. But a short time now remains until work will be commenced and pushed with a vim.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
A Wheelbarrow Ride.
According to some agreement made between Mr. Wm. Krebs and P. B. Andrews in regard to the election, the former gentleman will give the latter a ride on a wheelbarrow. The ride will take place next Saturday at 2 o’clock p.m., starting from South Summit street, opposite the residence of Major Sleeth, and continue to Central Avenue and return.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 10, 1884.
The wheelbarrow ride to be given P. B. Andrews by Wm. Krebs in consequence of an election bet, and which should have come off some time since, is set for next Saturday at 2 p.m. The course will be on Summit Street from Central Avenue to Major Sleeth’s residence.
Winfield Courier, December 11, 1884.
A Mistaken Idea.
From a squib published in the Arkansas City Republican some weeks ago we clip the following.
"The COURIER has always ignored Arkansas City and made fun of her. Arkansas City can get along without Winfield, but can the COURIER get along without Arkansas City?"
If the person who wrote the squib knew anything of the history of Cowley County, and especially of the COURIER, he would not have penned it. The COURIER has never since the old matters of County Seat and other purely local feuds were settled, said ought adverse to the growth and prosperity of any portion of our splendid county. On the other hand it has taken great pride and assisted not a little in promoting the growth and advancement of Arkansas City, Burden, Udall, and every other portion of the county. The COURIER recognizes the fact that no community can build permanent prosperity by tearing others down. Such policy is pursued only by narrow-minded bigots, and not by persons of sound mind and liberal views. Arkansas City has enjoyed its full share of our general advancement. This has been brought about by the indomitable energy of such men as Sleeth, Newman, Matlack, Hill, Huey, Cunningham, Hess, Scott, and a score of others whose faith in the future of their city has been shown in works, the successful prosecution of which left no time, if the inclination existed, to snarl and growl at their neighbors. This is indulged in only by the lesser lights who come in to enjoy the benefits of other’s industry and find a fruitful field in promoting discord where harmony should prevail. We are glad to know that no respectable portion of the people of our own sister city indulge in the small and contemptible feelings which seem to inspire the Republican man.
Arkansas City Republican, December 6, 1884.
J. C. Douglass, an old army friend of Maj. Sleeth, with his family, is en route for Kansas from New Castle, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Douglass will stop at Olathe while Mr. Douglass pays Arkansas City a visit next week. He desires to locate here on account of his wife’s health. In all probability Mr. Douglass will locate in Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, December 13, 1884.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth went to St. Louis yesterday. He will meet Jas. Hill there. We suppose the Major went there on business connected with both the railroad and navigation schemes.
Arkansas City Republican, December 13, 1884.
The Courier accuses us of being inspired by a "contemptible spirit" because of our persistency in requesting that she at least treat Arkansas City squarely and that we are trying to promote discord. You are wrong again, friend Courier. We were inspired by a careful perusal of your columns. Thanks, to the compliment paid to "Messrs. Sleeth, Newman, Matlack, Hill, Huey, Cunningham, Hess, Scott, and a score of others." They are deserving of every word. To them may be attributed to a great degree the prosperity of Arkansas City. They have been the life of the city. We will now be content for a time at least for this kind notice.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
W. M. Sleeth started to St. Louis last Friday to meet James Hill. These gentlemen expect to purchase the boat for the river while there.
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
Col. J. C. Douglass, the friend of Maj. W. M. Sleeth, spoken of in the REPUBLICAN several issues since as coming to Arkansas City, arrived here yesterday. Col. Douglass was formerly in the newspaper business in Newcastle, Pennsylvania. He came west seeking a new home and for the benefit of his wife’s health. He will remain here several days viewing our city and country, and may decide to locate with us. Mrs. Douglass is stopping at Olathe.
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth and Jas. Hill returned from St. Louis Thursday. They inspected a number of boats for use on the Arkansas, and then came home to report to the Navigation Company. A boat which had been used on the Red River in Texas proved conclusively that a like boat could be used on the Arkansas. It was 18 x 100 feet, with 100 horsepower and drew 12 inches of water. Messrs. Sleeth and Hill thought it was best to be on the safe side and came to the wise conclusion to try a boat of smaller capacity but the same propelling power. A boat drawing ten inches of water and 15 x 75 feet. These gentlemen are going to make sure this time in getting the right kind of a boat; demonstrating that small steamers can be made to pay and then larger ones will be utilized.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
Real Estate Transfers.
The following are the real estate transfers of Arkansas City for December 12 to December 19, as reported by Miss Anna Meigs.
Wm. M. Sleeth and wife to John S. Curry, 17, b 129, Arkansas City, $35.
Wm. Sleeth and wife and H. P. Farrar and wife to Edward L. Kingsbury, 1 8, b 22 [?], Arkansas City, $300.
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
ARKANSAS CITY.
Her Business Firms and Their Establishments.
The Holidays are Here and the Republican Indites a Letter to Santa Claus,
Telling Him of the City and the Merchants.
OUR ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE CITY AND BUSINESS FIRMS.
Soon we witness the demise of the fruitful year of 1884. By her death 1885 will be born. Already the holiday season, the happiest time on earth—is upon us. When this festive season comes, little hearts as well as big ones, are filled with joy by presents from Santa Claus. To the people of the world who contemplate having a visit from that ever welcome individual and more especially to Santa Claus himself do we desire to present the claims of Arkansas City and her live businessmen on his holiday patronage. That our kind-hearted Kris Kringle may know where, what, and when to buy the magnificent gifts which annually laden his sleigh, we indite him a letter, presenting a brief history of Arkansas City, her businessmen, and their establishments, as seen by a REPUBLICAN representative in his rounds just before the holiday trade opens.
ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS, December 20, 1884.
Santa Claus, Dear Old Friend:
We have met you several holiday seasons in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, and last of all in Sunny Kansas. And now once more we are about to greet you. This time in Arkansas City. You will find here a city reaching up to 2,500 inhabitants within its corporate limits. Should our population be increased in numbers as great during 1885 as 1884 we will have 4,700 people by the time you pay your next annual visit. The last year has added 1,200 people to our city. We will be thrice blessed should good fortune favor us thus kindly during the year 1885. Our thriving city is located on the divide between the Arkansas and the Walnut rivers, about three miles from where the latter empties in the former. Thus you will see we are surrounded by broad fertile bottom land—in fact, the most fertile of the world. Four miles south lies the Indian Territory, which is dotted here and there with herds of cattle belonging to stockmen residing there. The trade with the Indian Territory is almost incredible. Having secured the payment of their annuity, the Indians come to Arkansas City to marvel in the sweets of civilization. Thousands of dollars are thus transferred yearly, to the tills of our merchants. Within the radius of two hundred miles, are numerous Indian reservations. White men are stationed at those points as traders. Their agencies annually purchase, from our merchants, thousands of dollars worth of goods. In addition to these, Arkansas City is surrounded by a country whose land is exceedingly fertile. The husbandman, each season, is able to glean from his farm of 160 or 240 acres, one or two thousand of dollars. This agricultural prosperity causes our farmers to rear elegant homes, and affords them all the luxuries they may desire. All these are purchased in Arkansas City, and thus both country and city are growing in wealth. At no distant day, a railroad will be constructed, running from Arkansas City to Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Another undoubtedly will be constructed, running southwest into Texas and New Mexico. From the cotton and sugar fields of the south will come the material to be woven into cloth, and to be manufactured into a purer article, and both will then seek a market in the surrounding states. Thus will be verified the prediction "that Arkansas City at no very distant day, will be the great distributing point of the west and southwest."
Our city commenced its career as far back as 1869. The town site was laid out by settlers from Emporia, and three log huts built. This was the then foundation of our now great city. One by one dwellings were erected slowly until our growth demanded better shipping facilities. In 1879 by persistent efforts the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe was induced to extend its line to Arkansas City. Less than 500 people were here then. Since then, we have grown and prospered. But the horizon of our prosperity was not reached until 1882. Passing along her southern boundary from the Arkansas to the Walnut rivers, is a canal, whose water power capacity is unsurpassed in the entire west. This enterprise was inaugurated in 1881, by the Arkansas City Water Power Company, consisting of A. A. Newman, Jas. Hill, W. M. Sleeth, and S. Matlack, and completed in 1882. Immediately three flouring mills sprang up. These are the mills of Landes, Beall & Co., V. M. Ayres, and W. H. Speers. By a widening and deepening of the channel, the volume of water can be made sufficient for any demand that may be desired. Then on the banks of the Walnut, we have Searing & Mead’s. These four mills average the manufacture of about 1,000 barrels per day. The wheat and corn for a radius of forty miles is made into flour here. Thus we have a home market for our farm products. Wheat brings a higher price here than in any other portion of the state.
Another industry will soon be in operation. A stock company with $50,000 capital will build a woolen mill on the canal. This will be completed during the year of 1885, and perhaps a machine shop and foundry will also be constructed.
The latest scheme is to make the Arkansas River navigable. We reprint a former report published in the REPUBLICAN November 19.
"The scheme of navigating the Arkansas River between this city and Little Rock has proven better than the most sanguine had anticipated. Some two weeks ago a flat boat and crew with Engineer Moorhead in command started down the Arkansas River for the purpose of ascertaining the feasibility of navigating the stream. This was brought about by a desire of cheap freight rates to the south on the flour by our millers. The cruise down the river was easily accomplished, and plenty of water was found all the way. From here to the mouth of the Cimarron River, boats drawing eighteen inches of water can be used. From there on down the water is sufficient to carry any boat that may be utilized. The crew and boat returned Tuesday night and Engineer Moorhead has sent in his report. On Wednesday the projectors met and talked the matter over. Thursday at another meeting the following directors were elected: Jas. Hill, W. M. Sleeth, C. A. Bliss of Winfield, V. M. Ayres, and C. H. Searing. A charter has been granted in the name of the Arkansas River Navigation company. Thursday morning it was decided by the stockholders to send Jas. Hill and Maj. W. M. Sleeth east for the purpose of purchasing the power boat, and enough lighters to form a fleet. They left on the afternoon train. The flat boats will be built as quickly as possible, capable of carrying thirteen tons of flour each. Messrs. Sleeth and Hill are in the east negotiating for the power boat.
Since the construction of the canal, our boom has been rapid and substantial. About 250 residences and store rooms have been erected since the holidays of 1883 and carpenters are still busy building more. Town property is advancing instead of receding as some predicted. Good houses can be purchased from $500 to $2,000. It is next to an impossibility to rent one. Our real estate agents have at the least calculation on their books some 150 houses which they rent. They inform us if they were agents for as many more, they could find tenants. There is not an empty store room in the city. All are occupied and the merchants doing an excellent business. The Hasie and Commercial block, the largest and handsomest building in the state, is almost complete. Three of the store rooms are already occupied and the remaining two will be as soon as finished. Traveling men inform us that it eclipses any building outside of Kansas City. The frontage of the block is 128 feet; the depth 132 feet; and four stories high. There are three business rooms 25 x 132 feet, and one 50 x 132 feet. The upstairs portion of this block would afford superior advantages for a hotel.
We have numerous church denominations. As a rule our citizens are a church-going people. The Presbyterians, the United Presbyterians, the Methodists, the Free Methodists, the Christians, and the Baptists have each a house of worship. Our school facilities are unequaled. Two large buildings accommodate the 900 pupils of this district.
The Central school building is just completed. It is a large stone structure. The east building is of brick. Prof. J. C. Weir is the superintendent, and, friend Santa, if you desire to know anything about the good boys and girls, pen a few lines to him at Arkansas City.
Now, we will make a few remarks about the climate and water and then perhaps you will know enough of Arkansas City to wish to learn something of her merchants. The climate is mild; winter commences seldom until December 20, and rarely lasts longer than February 15. The air has proven very beneficial to persons afflicted with lung diseases. The healthfulness of the country is fully equal to any new country known.
The water obtained here is superior to any in Kansas. It is obtainable at the depth of 15 to 40 feet. It is pure crystal water, known only in the Arkansas valley. The alkali taste is not in the slightest degree noticeable, which is a peculiarity to the water in most portions of the state.
Now that we have told you of our city, we present to you our business firms and their establishments.
D. BRUNSWICK
is the proprietor of the Arcade Clothing house. The Arcade is located in the north room of the Commercial block. Several months ago Mr. Brunswick’s attention was attracted to Arkansas City by her wonderful growth. He came here and investigated and was so thoroughly convinced of the town’s great future that he invested his idle capital—some $40,000—in the Arcade. Mr. Brunswick is a thorough businessman and is up to the times. He never misses a chance when one is offered to benefit his customers. He saw an opening here for a first-class clothing house, and has established it. Last October he opened up the Arcade. The time of opening was a gala day. People for miles around came and visited the Arcade, and were agreeably surprised at the immensity of the enterprise. They did not expect to have their eyes behold a store-room 132 feet deep by 25 feet in width, equipped with patent shelving on both sides of the room and it loaded up to the seventeen foot ceilings with a well selected stock. In addition, some sixty table counters serve to pile a portion of their clothing on. As you enter the door of the Arcade, your eyes are greeted with beautiful visions of gent’s furnishing goods on one side and hats and caps on the other. A cheerful and courteous salutation reaches your ears either from Sam Wile or Albert Levy, the managers. Always on the alert, ready to accommodate you and sell you clothing at one price to all. No discretion is made at the Arcade between the rich or poor, plebeian or yeomanry, but all are treated alike. The prices are marked on the goods. No deviation is allowed by Mr. Brunswick. He buys such large quantities of clothing, paying the cash therefor, that he is enabled to sell it cheaper than any of his competitors. He attaches such a small advance to the cost mark of his clothing that his competitors wonder how he can afford to carry on business. But he does it and with profit to himself and his customers. For the holidays Mr. Brunswick has provided the Arcade with hundreds of different styles of overcoats from $2.50 up to the costliest. Since the cold snap set in, Mr. Brunswick ordered a "mark down" on these goods. The man of a large family of boys can now purchase each a new overcoat and still have means left to defray the other Christmas festivities. We are glad to say many are availing themselves of the benefit of Mr. Brunswick’s generosity. Overcoats are not all that is displayed at the Arcade. In addition, beautiful silk handkerchiefs, gloves, mitts, the handsomest neckties we ever saw in a showcase, slippers, boots, shoes, trunks, valises, etc. This is not one-half. Go and see the boys at the Arcade even if you do not make any purchases. In the evening when the Arcade is lighted up, it is a marvel of beauty. Their numerous large electric lamps, placed in various parts of the room, give out a light almost equal to the radiancy of the sun. The laborer can get just as good a bargain at the Arcade at night as in the daytime. The room is well lighted for this purpose. Before closing our eulogy on the Arcade, we desire to pay a compliment to the managers, Sam Wile and Albert Levy, for their beautifully adorned show-windows and their civility to customers. Every article has a place, and it is always found there. Messrs. Wile and Levy can instantly set their hands on it. Customers do not grow impatient at waiting for the clerks to look up what they want. Call for what you want and you get it immediately at the Arcade. Coming to Arkansas City a few months ago as strangers, they by their gentlemanly bearing and business qualifications now count their friends by the score. Don’t forget the Arcade in your holiday rounds.
THE DIAMOND FRONT.
This well known institution was founded by John Kroenert in 1878 with Kroenert & Woods as proprietors. Early in 1879 Mr. Kroenert purchased Mr. Woods’ interest, and formed a partnership with F. D. Austin, who was traveling for a wholesale house in Leavenworth. Messrs. Kroenert & Austin, by reason of their long experience in business and large trade, know just exactly what to buy to please the patronizing public. The Diamond Front is one of THE institutions of Arkansas City. In fact, it is a bona fide Arkansas City child. Starting in with a small business and as Arkansas City and surrounding country have grown, so has the Diamond Front’s fame spread. Today her head is high among the leading institutions of our town. There is nothing in the line of staple and fancy groceries, and provisions, which it does not keep, and it fills all orders with great promptness and the most satisfactory manner. It is always important in the holiday season, if not at other times, to know where to get just what is needed in preparing the feast expected of such a time, and in this respect the Diamond Front may be regarded as a public benefactor. Messrs. Kroenert & Austin take great pride in keeping up their stock to a high standard, and in consequence are handsomely rewarded by a lucrative trade. A fine stock of candies, not that which is composed of paint and clay, but the real genuine article, which is as healthful as it is good, is now displayed for the holidays. Nuts, of all kinds, sufficient to supply every social gathering in the county. The Diamond Front is also becoming renowned for her large wholesale trade; it extends for miles in the surrounding country, and the merchants located at the many different trading posts in the Indian Territory all recognize the Diamond Front as one of the leading wholesale grocery houses of our city. The promptness, the attention, the civility shown to their customers, be they rich or poor, by the proprietors of the Diamond Front is noticeable. Courteous to one and all, they make the Diamond Front a popular resort. Hand in hand the Diamond Front and Arkansas City march along the path of time. Each an advertisement of the other. Mention the name of one and the other will be sure to follow. The present quarters are becoming too small for the mammoth business of this establishment. We hope these gentlemen will get their business erected by spring and thus give them a better chance to show their enterprise. It wouldn’t surprise us if in a few years, Messrs. Kroenert & Austin were at the head of the leading wholesale house in Southern Kansas. As yet they are comparatively young men. Just in the prime of life and have years of labor before them. We are proud of the Diamond Front. Long may its front glitter with Diamonds.
MOWRY & SOLLITT’S DRUG STORE.
The holidays have come and they caught these gentlemen just as we expected—with the largest and handsomest stock of holiday goods in the city. No other firm displays as large a line of goods as they. This house is fully equipped for the large holiday trade which its proprietors had anticipated and have commenced realizing. Extra shelving, and a mammoth double deck holiday table was created on which to display their stock. Judging by the large quantity of holiday goods, one would suppose Messrs. Mowry & Sollitt were running a wholesale house. They are slashing right and left on their stock this year. They bought them for the benefit of their customers and they are bound to sell them. Penniless we wandered into this Elysium of holiday goods viewing them at a distance, but when informed of the low prices, our arms hungered to be burdened with some of the beautiful things which we saw. There were all kinds of toys for the children, beautiful plush photo albums suited to adorn the center table of any parlor, hanging lamps that would cause any wife to love her husband ten-fold more on receiving one for a present, handsome work baskets, boys, that would make your sweethearts smile on you sweetly for a decade, elegant solid china mustache cups, girls, to protect the boys’ mustache during its rise and fall, some of the most unique vases, toilet sets, perfumery cases, and a thousand and one other articles suitable for making presents. Do not think for an instant that Messrs. Mowry & Sollitt will neglect their drug trade by the rush for holiday presents. They are fully prepared to meet this exigency. Lately they secured the valuable services of Mr. J. F. Hull, a druggist of twenty years experience. No fears need be entertained of a mistake when Mr. Hull compounds your prescription. Messrs. Mowry & Sollitt are also both experienced druggists. Each have spent almost a lifetime at the business. By the way, something almost slipped our memory. They also have in stock a large assortment of books. Read! Educate! Is the popular cry. A man cannot remain in ignorance all of his life, so if he desires to be learned, he should educate his mind by reading. Therefore, the question naturally arises, what shall I read? This is easily decided by going and looking through Mowry & Sollitt’s mammoth stock of books consisting of poems, and other books, both of history and fiction. Visit them and you will find that half has not been told you.
RIDENOUR & THOMPSON’S JEWELRY STORE.
Here extensive preparations have been made for the holiday trade. Goods have been arriving almost daily for the past month. Nothing is more popular among the ladies for a present than jewelry. This fact inspires their gentlemen friends with the idea of a gift of some kind of a jewelry ornament. Superb gold watches and chains fit to grace a queen are plentifully displayed in their handsome show cases. Beautiful finger rings, necklaces, brooches, and other ornaments suitable for a present to your sweetheart, wife, mother, sister, or daughter. For the gentlemen they have rings, watches, clocks, charms, chains, etc. For Young America they have the best thing on earth as a reminder of the time to go to school—The Rockford watch. It keeps the correct time. You need have no fear of your son being tardy at school, provided he has a Rockford movement watch. Now is the time to buy one and at Ridenour & Thompson’s is the place to make the purchase. There is silverware in superabundance on their shelves. Table cutlery, spoons, castors, card-receivers, that makes the eyes of the spectator glisten with pleasure by their wondrous beauty. Located in the mammoth new store room of the post office, they have a splendid opportunity to show their stock to an advantage. One whole side of the room—some 100 feet—is occupied with their goods. The same distance is occupied by their handsome show-cases, seventeen inches in the clear. They are filled chock full of jewelry. Now a few good words for the proprietors and we will pass on. The REPUBLICAN never tires of saying good words for such good-natured, courteous gentlemen. Jas. Ridenour, the senior member, has been in the jewelry business over eight years in Arkansas City. Jim, as he is familiarly known, is so jolly that it is really a pleasure to buy a big bill of goods from him. You feel when you get through with him that you could pay twice the sum demanded for the goods. Will Thompson is an Arkansas City boy. All know him to be a man of sterling worth to any community. Rather quiet, but sociable, he is quite a favorite among their patrons, especially the ladies. All of the above facts combined, we predict a large holiday trade for Ridenour & Thompson.
YOUNGHEIM & CO.
The ready made clothing business has been revolutionized in Arkansas City and vicinity by this house. The firm is able to offer unusual inducements to purchasers, and its system is such that it is now possible for a man with a slim purse to secure a neat-fitting and durable suit of clothing. At the same time there are more expensive goods for those who are able or inclined to spend more money. It is a mammoth stock, embracing every variety of style, quality, and material, and size from the little boy of three years, to the well matured and full-grown man of six feet seven, weighing three hundred pounds or more. It is a great relief to overworked mothers to be able to buy ready made suits for the romping urchins, as it take a burden off them which sometimes, when added to their other numerous duties, becomes too heavy to be borne with equanimity. Overcoats are being sold at cost during the holidays. Gloves, boots, and shoes, hats and caps, neck-ties, suspenders, shirts, underwear, trunks, overalls, notions, and everything else sold at reasonable prices. The firm is composed of Eli Youngheim and Joe Finkleburg; the latter being the manager. Although located in our city but a few months as stated above this firm has created a revolution. Joe has become so well-acquainted that hundreds of customers grasp him by the hand daily, and the little children run to him with upturned faces for his greeting kiss, when they visit his store. Kind, sociable, honest, and upright, Joe is respected by everyone.
G. W. MILLER.
This is the name of our 4-eyed, jolly, whole-souled hardware merchant. He was born on the shores of Lake Erie several years ago, and at an early age he mastered the tinsmith trade. After the war he drifted westward. For a number of years he was in the hardware and implement business in Missouri. Mr. Miller has encountered many reverses in life and has surmounted all, at one time losing all earthly possessions except a three-cent postage stamp. But by his indomitable will, his sterling qualities, and his quiet, unassuming "get there Eli" and bound to succeed spirit, has kept climbing up the ladder round by round, until he is nearing the topmost. He came to Kansas in 1878, landing at Wichita. In 1881 Mr. Miller decided that Arkansas City was destined to be the metropolis of the southwest at no distant day, and accordingly cast his lot here. In that year he founded his present mammoth establishment in a little room 16 x 18. He worked day and night, pounding tin, with a determination to win the esteem of everybody and their money by fair dealings. His efforts have been crowned with success. By his persistency, he has won the esteem of all. But more than all, a happy home and a good paying business—his mammoth hardware establishment, second to none. Mr. Miller handles everything in the way of hardware stores, tinware, and house furnishing goods. Three first-class tinsmiths are employed the year round to do the tin work on the many fine residences that grace our beautiful city and county. He has not been neglectful of the holiday season. He has for presents toilet sets, a fine line of silver-plated teapots, the largest and best selected stock of pocket cutlery in the city, a handsome stock of silverware, and last of all but not least the universal Base-Burner stove. Surprise your family with one of these elegant heaters and make your home pleasant. We can consistently recommend to the generous public, when wanting anything in this line, to go and see G. W. Miller, and he will give you a square deal.
A. V. ALEXANDER & CO.,
are the proprietors of the lumber yard on South Summit Street. This is the firm of which we are all proud. Coming here but a few short months, Mr. A. V. Alexander has worked up a patronage in the lumber trade second to no other yard in the city. He handles the best lumber the market affords, selling it at but a slight advance. He treats everyone so politely that the first thing you realize after entering his sanctum at the lumber yard is that you have purchased a bill of lumber for your house. Since making his home in Arkansas City, Mr. Alexander has been prominently connected with all the public enterprises which would be of benefit to our town. Of the Arkansas City Building Association, Mr. Alexander is the secretary. This association has been one of the prime factors in the up-building of the south part of the town. The five handsome cottages which this association erected some time ago was the nucleus for the erection of other buildings. Property has advanced in that neighborhood and it has been principally through the instrumentality of Mr. Alexander, but we are afraid we are digressing from their lumber yard business, and yet we cannot help mentioning these facts when a man is so deserving. But to return. What Arkansas City has needed for a long time is a lumber yard that would supply our citizens with a good quality of lumber at a reasonable figure. Since the opening of this yard, over 200 houses have been erected. Alexander & Co., have assisted in their building. They have aided the poor man with a small sum of money in getting cheaper lumber, thus allowing them to build a home for their family and little ones. Our limited space will not allow us to do this firm the justice which we desire. Among the first in all of the public enterprises, Mr. Alexander is a valuable citizen and as such we recommend him to the public.
P.S. You can make orders by telephone at this yard.
J. W. HUTCHISON & SONS
are the proprietors of one of the leading wholesale and retail grocery and queensware establishments in the city. It is located in the south room under the Highland Hall. F. B. Hutchison is the manager. By his long residence in the territory before engaging in business, Frank formed many acquaintances and made lifetime friends, both among the noble redmen and the many merchants located at the different Indian trading posts. He now enjoys the fruits of his territorial residence. When in Arkansas City these traders call at J. W. Hutchison & Sons’ store for Frank to figure on a bill of goods. Now, this is his especial delight. If there is anything in which Frank excels, it is in figuring on a bill of goods. He never fails to make the sale. Any time you may drop into their establishment, you are likely to see Frank busily engaged in various gyrations before "Spotted Tail," "Big Alex," or some other Indian. This habit was also acquired while in the territory. He enjoys a large and lucrative Indian trade. Especially for the holiday trade, Messrs. Hutchison & Sons have laid in a magnificent stock of queensware and glassware. Throw away your old cracked dishes, do not keep them stuck together any longer with glue, but make your table shine with splendor, by purchasing a new outfit of J. W. Hutchison & Sons. An old adage says the way to reach a man’s heart is by way of his stomach. In order to do this, you must have the dinner table looking neat and inviting. Hanging lamps, mustache cups, dishes and pitchers in endless variety. A specialty made of Hutchison’s Darling cigar. Wives, a box of them would make a splendid present for your husband. On staple and fancy groceries, Messrs. Hutchison & Sons are offering extraordinary inducements during the holiday season.
A. G. HEITKAM
is Arkansas City’s leading merchant tailor. Mr. Heitkam came here last Spring. Since then he has worked up a wonderful trade. He is a young man and is full of enterprise. The weather and the season are both suggestive of a new suit of clothing. It is poor economy to go badly clothed, and ill-fitting garments are an abomination both to the wearer and the beholder. A man always feels more like being a christian when he knows that he is making a good appearance. This being true, consider what Mr. Heitkam has done for the benefit of his fellow citizens in this part of the moral vineyard. Those who pass from under his skillful hands have assurance that they are presentable, in whatever company they may be thrown, be it Kings, Queens, or Presidents, and this consciousness gives them an ease of bearing, which adds greatly to their dignity and captivating appearance, essentials particularly requisite in young men who wish to make a favorable impression upon the opposite sex. You can obtain of Mr. Heitkam besides a neat fitting suit everything in the gent’s furnishing line. Neck-ties, collars, cuffs, pins, shirts, underwear, etc., are all obtainable here. He has all of the new styles of pantings and suits. Mr. Heitkam’s store is so advantageously situated that he keeps a first-class tailoring establishment. He invites the gentlemen of Cowley and adjoining counties to examine his goods and leave orders for suits. He is satisfied that they will be both pleased and benefitted. He is continually adding new goods, therefore any selection you may make of him will not be out of style after the first wearing.
LANDES, BEALL & CO.
are the proprietors of the lower stone flouring mill on the canal. This mill was built during 1883. The building is five stories high, all of stone. It cost some $65,000, for machinery and building. About $55,000 capital is required to keep this huge piece of machinery in operation. It is the flouring mill of the southwest. An average daily run of 250 barrels of flour is turned out. The Crescent Patent is their leading brand. The Morning Star is the favorite, and the third brand is Old Gold. As to the merits of these different grades of flour, the large wholesale trade carried on by Messrs. Landes, Beall & Co., simply testifies. Daily they make large shipments to the west and southwest: Kansas, Arkansas, Texas, and many other states are supplied with flour by the mill. Owing to their large southern trade, the demand for lower freight rates to that region has caused these gentlemen to enter prominently in the scheme of navigating the Arkansas River between here and Little Rock. Should the height of their ambition be reached and a line of steamers be kept constantly plying between the two above named points, then their southern wholesale trade will be increased three fold. This firm alone averages shipments of 200 barrels of flour per day, and as the demand for their flour grows, so will the firm of Landes, Beall & Co., increase their facilities for making it. They are men of enterprise and will succeed when others fail. To the world at large, the REPUBLICAN cheerfully recommends this firm and their flour.
GEO. W. CUNNINGHAM.
One of our best businessmen in the city is Geo. W. Cunningham. In the make-up of Arkansas City’s list of businessmen, Mr. Cunningham is near the top. He is an implement dealer. His establishment is the largest of this kind in Arkansas City. It is a double-room, two-story brick. It is filled already with implements, wagons, buggies, windmills, corn shellers, etc. He handles nothing but the best goods. For enterprise Mr. Cunningham is not surpassed in Southern Kansas. There are a few weeks in the year that the implement business lags, but a visit to Mr. Cunningham’s establishment would never have divulged that fact. Words of commendation from us of Mr. Cunningham are almost useless, for who is it of our farmer friends that are not well acquainted with the above gentleman; but we would like to whisper a few words into your ear, toilers of the soil. Mr. Cunningham is making greater preparations accordingly. He handles the boss line of cultivators, plows, rakes, and other farm implements. His line of wagons for general use are second to none. All the above facts coupled with his great popularity with the patronizing public, appears to make his store room the center of attraction for people who desire anything in the implement line.
BROWN & PELL
are the proprietors of the leading boot and shoe house in Arkansas City. The ladies will be delighted to learn that Mr. Brown has just returned from the east with a stock of shoes and slippers, especially for the holiday trade that will make their beautiful eyes glisten with pleasure. A neat fitting shoe or slipper is the ladies’ delight. It will not be the fault of Messrs. Brown & Pell that all the ladies are not re-shod during the holidays at their establishment. Nor have they been unmindful of the wants of the gentlemen and boys. All the leading manufacturers are represented. Fine boots and shoes they take pride in having constantly in stock. For heavier wear they have coarser stock. They flatter themselves that they have the best selected stock of boots and shoes of any house in the city. They handle boots and shoes exclusively. Their attention is not detracted from this line of business by any other branch. As the holidays are generally accompanied by a cold wave, they have laid in a mammoth stock of overshoes, especially for this season. They can save you 50 percent on all goods purchased of them. Should they fail in fitting you out of their stock, they can easily manufacture what you desire. Give them a call and take our word for it they will please you.
STEDMAN BROS.
are the proprietors of the Arkansas City gun-shop. Work guaranteed.
S. F. STEINBERGER
is the latest acquisition to the City in the drug line. He came from Indiana several months ago and concluded to open up a first class drug store. He is one of those energetic Hoosiers who can never rest but are always rustling their business. Since the opening up of his store, he has been doing an excellent business. At the rear of his room he has partitioned off an office for Dr. E. Y. Baker, who will assist him in the drug business during the leisure hours of his practice. Mr. Steinberger has an exceedingly large prescription case filled with the purest of drugs. His stock is all new and fresh. It has not been on the shelves for months. For the holidays he will have a large stock of confections, just received. He handles none but the best brands of cigars. Tobacco he has plenty and if variety is spice, you can find both at this drug store. Combined with his drug stock, Mr. Steinberger has a fine line of pocket cutlery, nickle-plated shears, silver spoons, knives and forks, and revolvers which he will sell at a bargain. He desires to close them out at a bargain in order to make room for his new drug stock which he has arriving daily. He also carries the best brands of razors in the market. You will find his room on South Summit Street near the skating rink.
GOULD & SNYDER,
Proprietors of the City Book Store, will greet you this season with the handsomest line of holiday goods in Kansas. S. P. Gould commenced his career as a book dealer in 1883. His business increased so much that a partner became necessary. Several months ago N. T. Snyder associated himself with Mr. Gould. By the partnership the stock was about trebled. Now their shelves and display tables are creaking with the load of beautiful things for the holidays. There are albums that will be an acquisition to the centre table of any parlor. Books of poems of all the principal authors. Histories, works of fiction. Writing desks. Boxes of fancy stationery, Paper knives, Sewing baskets, Cigar cases, Perfumery, Lamps. This is only a partial enumeration, and to these are added vases, harmonicas, toys, pictures, scrap-books, and many minor articles which we cannot mention on account of our limited space. We have often heard of Paradise Lost, but if you will step into Gould & Snyder’s book store, you will have it found.
P. PEARSON.
What is there more appropriate for a present at this season of the year than a handsome parlor set, bed room suit, or something that is substantial, besides beautifying your home. For the holidays Mr. Pearson has received almost three carloads of furniture. He buys directly from the manufacturer and pays spot cash. In this way he is enabled to sell goods cheaper than anyone else. Mr. Pearson has been in the furniture business for a long time in Arkansas City. His present establishment is growing entirely too small for his increasing patronage. He has the basement chock full, the business room so full that you cannot turn around without jostling against furniture, and the upstairs so full that you are unable to get your head in the doorway. All this furniture Mr. Pearson has purchased for his customers during the holidays and mark our words, Peter will get rid of it and don’t you forget it. Pictures he has in endless variety, and everything in a first-class furniture store. Kind readers, you cannot afford to allow the holidays to pass by without visiting Peter Pearson’s furniture store.
O. P. HOUGHTON.
The quiet and gentlemanly proprietor of the Green Front is the oldest dry goods merchant in Arkansas City. For fourteen long years, Mr. Houghton has handled dry goods here; no one now can show a longer continuous business in the place than he. And what he doesn’t know about the dry goods business is not worth knowing. He knows where and what to buy and how to sell. As the city has increased in population and wealth, so has Mr. Houghton’s trade grown. He has become a permanent fixture in Arkansas City’s circle of businessmen and it would be an impossibility to do without him. Located in one of the most prominent places, first door north of Cowley County Bank, every man, woman, and child knows where to find him. For the holidays he is offering superior inducements in dry goods, carpets, ladies’ wraps, boots and shoes, notions, etc. Something that will be of use to you as well as ornamental is what you should buy to make presents during the holidays and the Green Front is the place to make your purchases. You will be deftly waited on by Mr. Houghton or any of his corps of assistants.
J. A. McCORMICK
is the youthful artist who has lately leased Mrs. D. W. Stevens’ art gallery. There is one thing which is welcome in every household, and that is the picture of a friend. Though absent in flesh, the counterfeit presentment keeps his memory bright and fresh in our minds. What a comfort it is to open the album and look upon the portraits of those whom we cannot have with us! Without the modern art gallery, the most of us would be denied this satisfaction. The gentleman mentioned above takes pride in granting your friends this satisfaction. His works are his recommendations. A glance at his samples will convince you, as an artist, he ranks second to none in the state.
THE CITY MILLINERY.
Here is a large and well-selected stock of almost everything pertaining to a lady’s wardrobe—hats, trimmings, laces, handkerchiefs, collars, ribbons of every shade, Jersey caps, embroidery, silks, and notions of every kind. The winter season is almost over and special bargains are offered her in hats, Saxony yarns, zephyrs, etc., at the City Millinery. It is the ladies’ paradise. Stamping done on short notice. Mrs. May Huyck is the lady who presides over the City Millinery and she is adept in the art of making ladies look beautiful under their head-gear.
NO. 33,
located in Newman’s corner brick, is one of the neatest arranged drug stores in the state of Kansas. It will not do to pass by this house in search for presents. No. 33 has a splendid selected stock of goods. It affords the gentlemenly proprietors much pleasure to be able to supply their customers with a superior class of goods. There are odor and dressing cases, plush mirrors, pocket-books, albums, writing desks, vases, lamps, cologne sets, ink stands, and various other articles suitable for a present. Their holiday goods consists of presents that are useful as well as ornamental. A lady or gentleman can easily find a present at No. 33 that will suit the taste of the most fastidious. Dr. H. D. Kellogg and L. V. Coombs are the gentlemanly proprietors. Messrs. Kellogg & Coombs are so well known to our readers that it is almost unnecessary for the REPUBLICAN to endorse them. They have been in the business so long, especially the senior member of the firm. Call and examine the stock of No. 33 and you will discover that we have not told the one-tenth part. You will find it a pleasure as well as a benefit to stop at No. 33.
THE CANAL ROLLER MILLS
was built about three years ago by Mr. V. M. Ayres. He is the pioneer in the mill business on the canal. He was the first to utilize Arkansas City’s water power. He erected first a combination mill of burrs and rolls and had a capacity of 125 barrels. Lately owing to his brisk trade, he enlarged and remodeled his mill into the complete roller system, including all the latest improvements. By this improvement the capacity of the Canal Roller Mills was almost doubled. They now rank with the best flouring mills of the state. Their new facilities also created a better grade of flour, and now they are turning out flour second to none manufactured in the southwest. Mr. Ayres’ leading brands are Roller Patent, Venus or Half Patent, and Zenith. As the result of Mr. Ayres making these grades of flour, it has given him a name in the principal cities of Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, Georgia, and the Indian Territory, as being one of the leading millers in the southwest. In these states he does a mammoth wholesale business.
ARKANSAS CITY LUMBER YARD.
Edward Grady, proprietor, is still in the ring, not in the least disfigured by having so much competition in the lumber trade. The sale of building material in this community the past year has been very large and he has sold his share. During the dull season this yard has done a thriving business. This lumber yard is now chock full of all kinds of builders’ material, and of the best quality. He does not make a big blow about the amount of business done in the days gone by, but generally rolls over into the new year by having disposed of many thousands of dollars worth of material between the first and last day. Mr. Grady’s customers have learned that he always gives them the benefit of the very lowest prices possible, and after the first transaction, they always "come again." Lately he has added coal to his lumber business, owing to the incessant demand of his customers for that article. Mr. Grady is business and is well recompensed for his efforts to please his customers.
T. R. HOUGHTON
is the proprietor of the "old reliable" harness shop of Arkansas City. He has been tried by the citizens of this community and found not wanting. He came here a number of years ago to make our town his home. Since then he has built up a lucrative trade. He has a large stock of harness, saddles, bridles, whips, spurs, etc.; in fact, his room is so full of stock that it is almost impossible to turn around. His room is much too small to accommodate his wants and his customers. Mr. Houghton does not try to build up his trade by tearing someone else’s down; nor does he make a great ado but proceeds quietly along in the even tenor of his way, making friends and augmenting his trade. He is busy now preparing for next season’s custom for which he will make a lively competition. A man among men is T. R. Houghton and this fact has been discovered by his customers and they stay with him.
E. L. McDOWELL.
Among the latest but by no means less important of our business establishments is that of E. L. McDowell, the jeweler. He came out here last spring to take charge of the jewelry establishment of Fitch & Barron’s store, but is so well pleased with the country and the kind treatment he has received at the hands of the people of this place, that he has decided to locate permanently, and accordingly rented part of Kellogg & Coombs’ room December 1, where he has displayed a very fine stock of clocks, watches, jewelry, etc. Mr. McDowell learned his trade in the east and is a practical workman, and having had experience in both the wholesale and retail jewelry trade, is enabled to keep up with the times. He hopes by fair and honest dealings to gain a foothold among us, and we wish him success. He has a handsome line of holiday goods.
I. H. BONSALL.
Mr. Bonsall is the oldest and the best known photographer in Arkansas City. He was a citizen here long before we knew of this beautiful town. He served during the war as a U. S. Government photographer with credit to himself and profession. In the art of picture taking, he has had more experience than any artist in Cowley County. His gallery is furnished with all the modern fixtures, the latest improved camera, and he never fails to produce an exact likeness of his subject. There is nothing nicer for a distant friend than your photograph and Judge Bonsall is the artist to take it. Geins [?], photos, cabinets, and panel pictures especially. Mr. Bonsall is also U. S. Circuit Court Commissioner for this district.
THE ARCADE RESTAURANT
is the place to get a lunch or a square meal. Stedman Bros, are the proprietors. Cigars, canned goods, cider, etc., can be obtained here. Fresh oysters received daily and gotten up in first-class style.
J. H. PUNSHON
extends to his many friends and customers a hearty welcome, and desires to tender you his sincere thanks for your past liberal patronage and hope by fair and honest dealing to merit your confidence and support in the future; confident that thereby we may be mutually benefitted. He is determined to keep a full and complete stock of everything kept in a first-class furniture store. Buying his goods of the most reliable eastern firms, he can offer them to his customers, feeling that they speak for themselves as to quality and beauty. It is not his custom to try and build up a trade by running down goods bought of other parties, but by fair and honest dealing. Again extending his thanks for your kind and liberal patronage, he wishes you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
A. E. KIRKPATRICK.
Mr. Kirkpatrick is the proprietor of a neat grocery and bakery combined. Now a bakery during the holidays is especially needed to prepare the many good things designed for the numerous festive gatherings. Here is the place to supply this want. He has a Noal [?] baker, who thoroughly understands his business. Mr. Kirkpatrick always keeps on hand an ample stock of staple and fancy groceries and during 1885 he proposes to furnish the larders of many families in this vicinity. The report noised around and strengthened by publication that Mr. Kirkpatrick was going to retire from business is untrue. He intends to be a giant of usefulness to the public the remaining years of his life in furnishing their groceries and the products of the oven.
D. L. MEANS
is the proprietor of one of the leading agricultural implement establishments in Arkansas City. He occupies Benedict & Owen’s old stand and is successor to them in the implement business. Mr. Means is a young and energetic businessman, and if his opening trade is an indication of what his trade will be when it has reached its maturity, he will do twice the business of his predecessors. All the latest improved farming machinery he has for sale. Pumps, windmills, corn shellers, wagons, buggies, garden and grass seed, gas supplies, etc., fills his store room to repletion. Possessed of the vim and energy which Mr. Means has, we have no fear but what he will create a vast amount of rustling among his competitors.
FITCH & BARRON.
The proprietors of the Notion Store is headquarters for Santa Claus. They are not exactly Santa Claus themselves, but they love to gladden the hearts of everyone. Toys of every description for the children, vases, toilet sets for the girls and boys, sewing machines for the mother, musical instruments for the family. In fact, there is nothing usually kept in a first-class notion store that they are not displaying for the holidays. At present they are closing out their dry goods at greatly reduced rates. Everything to please you will be found in this establishment arranged neatly and at prices to suit the times.
THE ARKANSAS CITY COAL COMPANY
with Ivan Robinson as proprietor. For a long time our town has felt the want of a coal yard. Mr. Robinson, on his own responsibility, came down from Winfield a few weeks ago and opened up a first-class yard. He has risked his capital in the investment and we are glad to see that our citizens are not backward in showing their appreciation of Mr. Robinson’s enterprise. They welcome him so warmly that already his business has reached such proportions as to require an assistant. You can get all kinds of coal of Mr. Robinson at any time. He keeps some ten carloads in stock.
HOMER DEETS
is the aesthetic knight of the razor who presides in the parlors of the Red Front tonsorial palace. Homer is king and reigns supreme and his subjects must bow down for mercy. But avaunt with nonsense and tell the truth. To our notion Mr. Deets is the easiest shaving barber in Arkansas City. He is ably assisted by Sir Knight Peecher. The shop is kept clean, which is a great item in barbering. Shampooing, sea foams, and hair cutting a specialty. Bath rooms in connection. Warm, cold, or shower baths given.
E. D. EDDY’S DRUG STORE.
Mr. Eddy has a good selected stock for the holiday trade. There are toilet sets, dressing cases, pocket books, albums, vases, and a variety of other articles calculated to please. He has a novelty in the way of Pampas grass and bouquets made of winter flowers. They are immense for holiday decorations. Mr. Eddy is an old citizen here and has been in the drug business a number of years. The holiday season has always found him ready for business and he is not lacking this time.
URIAH SPRAY & CO.
This is the appellation of a new real estate firm doing business over the post office. Uriah Spray is well known to our citizens and is doing a good business in the effecting of sales of lands. They have a number of choice farms for sale at a bargain, lots in all parts of the city, horses, cattle ranches, and in fact anything usually for sale at a real estate agency. One thing characteristic of Mr. Spray is his truthfulness. He has had a great deal of experience as a land agent and his word once passed may be counted on as reliable.
KIMMEL & MOORE
are the proprietors of one of the leading wholesale and retail grocery houses of Arkansas City. They keep a select stock of staple and fancy groceries, the finest line of glass and queensware in town. Beautiful hanging lamps adorn their show windows, such as would be an attraction in any lady’s parlor. Messrs. Kimmel & Moore are good men to deal with. Accommodating, sociable, and generous, they await you at their store. You will find it a pleasure to deal with them.
WM. M. JENKINS,
Attorney-at-law, practices in all the courts. Mr. Jenkins lately removed here and is rapidly polishing up his reputation as a lawyer. We advise those desiring legal advice to call on Mr. Jenkins over the post office.
WARD & WALLACE,
the genial draymen, do not desire to be left out in the cold in our "write-up." These gentlemen do the greater portion of the hauling for the businessmen mentioned in this review. They have several teams which are constantly on the go from early morn till late at night. If it were not for these enterprising gentlemen and their draying outfits, our merchants would be in a sad predicament indeed. They are especially fitted up for holiday hauling.
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
NOTE: THE REPUBLICAN REPEATED ITS ARTICLE ON BUSINESSES IN ARKANSAS CITY IN THIS ISSUE. THEN THEY ADDED SOME MORE!
Sweeney & SMITH.
Don’t think readers because we failed to mention this firm in our review of last week that they are a minor institution of Arkansas City, for they are not. Messrs. Sweeney & Smith are the proprietors of a wholesale and retail grocery located in the old post office. Their room is not half large enough to accommodate their big trade. Not to be outdone by any competitors in the grocery business, they make it lively for them in wholesaling as well as retailing. They have a very large trade in the former. We see almost daily wagon load after wagon load leaving Sweeney & Smith’s establishment and great smiles wreathe the countenance of the purchaser as he thinks of the handsome bargains he has secured by buying his bill of goods of Sweeney & Smith. Their wholesale business has grown so large that it will necessitate the building of an addition to their business room, which we are informed will be done immediately. Both Messrs. Sweeney & Smith are grocerymen of long experience. They know how to sell their goods. They are at the head of the list of our grocery firms. These gentlemen propose to furnish the larders of their fellow citizens during 1885; but can easily do it from their ample stock, which is at all times replete with the best there is in the market. While groceries is their specialty, they have also found room on their shelves for a large stock of candies for the holidays. They always give their patrons the inside track on prices. Their stock of confections was not all consumed by the Christmas trade. Plenty is left for New Years. Messrs. Sweeney & Smith endeavor to please everyone by doing business on business principles. This is one good reason why they are so successful. We cannot speak too highly of this institution.]
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
McLAUGHLIN BROS.
All our old citizens know McLaughlin Bros. But for the benefit of newcomers, the REPUBLICAN would bespeak a word of praise for them. For years McLaughlin Bros., have been identified with Arkansas City. Probably no man has ever done more for general prosperity of his town than T. H. McLaughlin. In all public enterprises McLaughlin is one of the leaders. When he puts his shoulder to the wheel, something has got to move. But to return to the firm. They are the proprietors of one of the leading grocery houses of the city. The city is proud of an institution such as McLaughlin Bros. It is seldom an article is called for there which is not in stock. They keep everything in the grocery line for which there is any demand, and their experience in buying and small expense in selling enables them to put their prices at the lowest figure. To those buying their annual stock, we would suggest that they give McLaughlin Bros., a trial for 1885. A large stock of glass and queensware always in stock.
H. H. PERRY
is the proprietor of the Leland Hotel. The festive season always brings many citizens of the country to town, on business or pleasure bent, and at such a time it is not pleasant to sleep out doors, or to go home hungry. The well fed and handsome landlord of the Leland Hotel is the best testimonial of the excellence of the culinary department, while his neat and comfortable rooms show for themselves.
Sleeth and Farrar ran the following ad in the December 27th issue...
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
WM. SLEETH, PRESIDENT. H. P. FARRAR, CASHIER.
Established 1872.
COWLEY COUNTY BANK
Arkansas City, Kansas.
Does a General Banking Business. Your Business Solicited.
CASH CAPITAL $100,000.
Correspondence Solicited.
Following items concerning Sleeth/Col. Douglass are not in date order...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 24, 1884.
Col. Douglass, of New Castle, Pennsylvania, is here visiting his old army comrade, Maj. W. M. Sleeth. This gentleman has been in the newspaper business for years, publishing the Cambridge Times, and other newspapers in Ohio, and lately located in Pennsylvania. The colonel is footloose now and came here to locate, if he finds anything suitable. We prophesy that he will remain with us.
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
Col. J. C. Douglass left Tuesday. He did not locate in Arkansas City, although he was highly pleased. Col. Douglass predicted that Arkansas City would be a large city. Maj. Sleeth accompanied him to Winfield.
Arkansas City Republican, January 3, 1885.
H. P. Standley has sold the Arkansas City Traveler to Col. Douglass, late of Ohio. The colonel is a republican. During the war he served in the 78th Ohio, as did also Maj. Sleeth, of Arkansas City. Just what Standley will do with the vast wealth he has accumulated, we have not heard, but most probably he will make an extended tour of Europe and Oklahoma.
Winfield Telegram.
Col. Douglass did not take over paper from Standley.]
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
Stock-holders’ Meeting.
The annual meeting of the stock-holders of the Arkansas City Water Power Company will be held at the Cowley Co. Bank on the 9th day of February, 1885, at 8 p.m.
W. M. SLEETH; Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
Messrs. Wood, of Winfield, Ayres, Mead, Landes, Beall, and Sleeth met at the Leland Hotel Wednesday last, to perfect drawings and specifications for the Arkansas River boat, soon to be built in St. Louis. The size of this boat will be 16 feet wide and 75 feet long, being forty horsepower. The boat will be completed in about sixty days.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
W. M. Sleeth made a short business trip to the hub Thursday.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 28, 1885.
Do We Want a New Rail Road?
Major C. H. Searing received the following letter this week, which he handed us for publication.
WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, January 21, 1885.
Major C. H. Searing, Arkansas City.
DEAR SIR: Our citizens are agitating the question of a railroad connecting with some terminus of the A. T. & Santa Fe R. R. in Southern Kansas, and I was delegated to correspond with parties in your town to see their desire in the matter. Congress is now in session and quick action will be necessary to get anything before the House this session. We have good available water power here and a through R. R. connection to Kansas City will make this the most important point in North Texas except Denison. Please reply soon.
Yours, W. A. KNOTT.
If our citizens want our road extended through the Territory, an opportunity is now offered. This is something we have long desired, something we absolutely need, and, in time, must have. Our citizens should take immediate action, as suggested in the letter, as Congress soon adjourns and what is to be done should be done before that time.
Should C. H. Searing, James Hill, W. M. Sleeth, A. A. Newman, S. Matlack, T. H. McLaughlin and other of our leading citizens put their shoulder to the wheel now, we may soon have a road to the South by which we may dispose of surplus grain and at the same time get cheaper lumber and other supplies.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1885.
In view of the fact that the west bridge is down and that this in consequence cuts off a large amount of trade from our city, it is pertinent to ask what is to be done. It is not likely that the township will be in any hurry to rebuild it. It will not benefit the township, so much as it will the city. For this reason we think the township will hardly be very energetic in the matter. As to Bolton’s cooperation, we think there is little hope judging from the past. The rebuilding of the bridge then falls on to the city, unjustly but necessarily. The proposition by Major Sleeth presents the quickest solution of this question. It is in effect this: The businessmen of Arkansas City are the ones to be most directly benefitted. Let them contribute the amount necessary—not more than $100 or $500. This amount would, when divided proportionally, amount to $25 each. This is the quickest solution. A more just one would be for the businessmen to contribute half the amount necessary, and the city to furnish the other half; for what benefits one class, also helps the city. Of the amount to be given by the City, the businessmen will, of course, pay a large proportion, as they pay more taxes a great deal than other citizens. This will in the end amount to the businessmen paying three fourths, or, at least three fifths, of the amount—a very fair proposition. Our city cannot afford to wait on the dilatory action of the township. Every day the bridge is down means dollars out of the pockets of our businessmen, consequently so much from the prosperity of the City. If our businessmen and citizens take a proper view of the matter, the west bridge will soon be ready for crossing.
Arkansas City Republican, March 7, 1885.
WM. SLEETH, PRESIDENT. H. P. FARRAR, CASHIER.
Established 1872.
Cowley County Bank
Arkansas City, Kansas.
Does a General Banking Business.
Your Business Solicited.
Cash Capital $100,000.
Correspondence Solicited.
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
Maj. Sleeth and H. P. Farrar sold to G. W. Miller & Co., a business lot Wednesday for $3,000. The lot adjoins Miller & Co.’s hardware store on the north and is at present occupied by Geo. Haysel with his Model Lunch counter. Messrs. Miller & Co., will as soon as they can get possession, erect a handsome two-story business room of stone with brick front. The building will be 100 x 25 feet and the first floor will be occupied by this firm with their hardware stock. The building will cost about $6,000. G. W. Miller & Co., have prospered and the REPUBLICAN congratulates them on their success.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 25, 1885.
BEETHOVEN CLUB.
Initial steps were taken a week ago last Wednesday for the formation of a musical society, and culminated last Wednesday in the formation of the Beethoven Club. The officers elected are as follows.
Geo. E. Hasie, President.
Mrs. Frank Beall, Vice President.
Mrs. Geo. W. Cunningham, Treasurer.
Stacy Matlack, Secretary.
R. W. Campbell, Librarian.
The following is the constitution and by-laws adopted.
CONSTITUTION.
1. The name of the society shall be the Beethoven Club, and be limited to 40 members.
2. The officers shall be President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Librarian, all of whom shall be elected annually by a majority of the members in good standing. There shall also be appointed by the officers of the Club an Executive Committee, which shall serve for one year, unless removed before such time by a majority vote of said officers.
3. The President shall preside at all the deliberations of the society. The Vice President shall preside in the absence of the President. The Secretary shall keep the minutes of the Society. The Treasurer shall take charge of all the funds and pay out same only on bills approved by chairman of Executive Committee. The Librarian shall take charge and safely keep music books and music belonging to the society and have them when needed at the places of rehearsal. The Executive Committee shall have general management of the affairs of the society, and constitute a board of directors with the President and Vice President, who shall be ex-officio members thereof.
BY-LAWS.
1. Any member of the Executive Committee shall receive applications for membership from singers only; and, if approved by a majority of said committee, shall present same at the next meeting of the Club for its action; and it will require a majority of the members present and in good standing to elect anyone to the privileges of the society.
2. The membership fee shall be $1.00, payable in advance, with quarterly dues of 25 cents.
3. Rehearsals will be held from 7:30 to 10.
4. Order of Business: Reading and approval of minutes of last Meeting.
New Business.
Rehearsal.
5. Members absent for two regular meetings without excuse from Executive Committee will be fined 25 cents; and for an absence extending over four meetings, will be dropped from the roll unless otherwise determined by a vote of the directors.
6. Members two quarterly dues in arrears will be suspended until they can present the Treasurer’s receipt for said dues paid in full.
7. Fifteen members will constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.
8. The Constitution and By-Laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the members of the Club.
The executive committee appointed are S. B. Fleming, C. L. Swarts, F. K. Grosscup, Mrs. H. P. Farrar, Mrs. E. D. Eddy.
The charter members are: Wm. M. Sleeth, F. K. Grosscup, Mrs. Geo. Cunningham, J. O. Campbell, Mrs. C. H. Searing, Mrs. E. A. Barron, Miss Rosa Morse, C. L. Swarts, S. Matlack, R. W. Campbell, Mrs. Morse, Allen Ayres, Miss Peterson, S. B. Fleming, W. D. Mowry, Ella Love, Mrs. Allen Ayres, Mrs. Chas. Howard, Mrs. N. T. Snyder, Mrs. E. D. Eddy, F. B. Hutchison, Mrs. W. E. Gooch, Mrs. A. A. Newman, Mrs. H. P. Farrar, Mrs. N. S. Martin, Geo. E. Hasie.
THE KANSAS CITY AND SOUTHWESTERN RAILWAY COMPANY.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 1, 1885.
THE KANSAS CITY AND SOUTHWESTERN.
An Enthusiastic Meeting Held at Highland Hall Sunday Night
And Proposition of the Company Accepted.
Now, All Pulling Together, "a Long Pull, a Strong Pull, a Pull Altogether;" and Cowley County will Double in Population and Wealth in the Next Two Years.
A meeting of our citizens was called Monday night to hear the proposition of the K. C. & S. W. Ry. Co. J. Q. Ashton was elected chairman and Wm. Jenkins, secretary. The proposition, as read by the secretary, was submitted in the form of a petition to the board of county commissioners, and tenor of it was as follows.
The undersigned resident tax payers respectfully petition for a special election to be called for the purpose of accepting a proposition to subscribe $160,000 to the capital stock of the K. C. & S. W. R. R. Co., and to issue bonds to that amount, to aid in securing said road to be constructed from Kansas City, in the state of Missouri, to the south line of the state of Kansas, through said county, the Co. first promising to construct that portion from the St. L. & S. F. R. R. north or northeast from said Cowley County into and through said county by the way of the City of Winfield and the city of Arkansas City to the south line of the state.
The bonds to be issued to be of the denomination of $1,000 each, to run 30 years (redeemable at the expiration of 10 years at the will of the county), to bear 6 percent interest, the interest payable semi-annually at the fiscal agency of the state of Kansas to the city of New York.
The said railroad shall enter the said Cowley County on the north side thereof, and extend through said county in a southwesterly direction, and through the townships of Omnia, Richland, Fairview, and Walnut, to Winfield, and thence by the most practicable route to Arkansas City, and touching its corporate limits, and thence to the south or west line of said Cowley County, with suitable passenger and freight depots located—one in Omnia Township, two in Richland Township, one within 3/4 of a mile by an air line from the crossing of Main Street and Ninth Avenue in the city of Winfield; one in Pleasant Valley Township; one within 3/4 of a mile of the intersection of Central Avenue and Summit Street, in Arkansas City; and one in Bolton Township.
The railroad to be of standard gauge, to be a first-class road, and to be built and completed and have cars running thereon, for the transaction of business to Arkansas City on or before six months from date of election, and to the south or west line of Bolton Township, on or before nine months.
Provided, That before any election shall be called, the said company shall give security either by depositing with the county treasurer a sum sufficient to defray the expenses of said election or by executing a bond to the State of Kansas for the benefit of said county to pay the costs of such election, in case the said company fails to build said road.
When the company shall have built 10 miles of road and fully equipped the same, bonds to the amount of $30,000 are to be issued to them; when they reach Winfield, bonds to the amount of $30,000 more shall be issued; when they shall reach Arkansas City, $40,000 more, and the balance when completed.
The form of the ballots to be "For the railroad stock and bonds of the K. C. & S. W. R. R. Co.," and "Against the railroad stock and bonds of the K. C. & S. W. R. R. Co."
With very little discussion the proposition was adopted. The following committee was appointed to work in the interest of the road to the outlying townships: Maj. W. M. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, J. L. Huey, C. Mead, Rev. S. B. Fleming, J. Q. Ashton, Wm. Jenkins, S. Matlack, N. T. Snyder, Maj. M. S. Hasie, Judge T. McIntire; and they were empowered to add others to the committee at their discretion.
The first steps have now been taken toward securing this road, a good beginning made. But our people must realize that it is only a beginning, a small one at that. Before us lies a great deal of hard, persistent work. The eastern portion of this county, through the mistaken idea that if the road does not traverse their townships, it will be of no benefit to them, will oppose the bonds to a man. The northwest will go equally as strong the same way. We take the following statistics from the last report of the Board of Agriculture, because we have not the vote of the townships at hand.
The population of concerned townships in 1884.
Omnia Township: 458
Richland Township: 905
Walnut Township: 1,285
Pleasant Valley: 936
Creswell Township: 879
Bolton Township: 1,228
Winfield, City: 3,617
Arkansas City: 2,838
TOTAL: 12,186
Population of county in 1884, 26,149.
Difference: 14,018
Leaving a majority against us in 1884 of 1,977. This, of course, is allowing that everyone is in favor of the road in the townships named and all the rest against us. We presume that this relation between the total population and the number of voters remains the same relatively all over the county.
The additional fact must also be kept in mind that while Winfield and Arkansas City have increased in population at from 25 to 40 percent since the above census was taken, the rest of the county has in a very small percent. Looking at it in this light, the most favorable we can allow, the total population of the townships mentioned above is less than the balance of the county, and the voters in proportion. The difference and a sufficient number more must be obtained by hard work. Not by the holding of an occasional meeting in the outlying townships, but by meeting six nights in the week, and twelve hours a day. If this road will be of any benefit to us, it will be of thousands of dollars in benefit. This will take time, money, and dogged persistence. If our city wants to do this work, or its share of it, well and good. If not, then the county bonds can be counted on as defeated from the beginning.
Johnson Loan and Trust Company Formed.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 11, 1885.
Thursday morning the Johnson Loan and Trust Company was formed. The company starts off with a cash capital of $100,000. The incorporators are: A. B. Johnson, J. P. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, H. P. Farrar, Maj. W. M. Sleeth, Calvin Dean, J. L. Huey, and C. A. Howard. The company is formed for the purpose of making loans on real estate and to negotiate loans in the New England states. Several of the incorporators reside in that section. The company’s office will be in the vacant room in the rear portion of the Cowley County Bank building. They will be ready for business about May 1, 1885.
Arkansas City Republican, April 11, 1885.
Mrs. W. M. Sleeth is convalescing from her attack of pneumonia. She has been sick some four weeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
DIED. Died on Saturday, the 16th inst., Maggie, eldest daughter of Major and Mrs. William Sleeth, aged 11 years. Funeral services were held on Monday morning.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
A Blighted Bud.
DIED. We regret to announce the death of the oldest daughter of Major and Mrs. Sleeth, on Saturday evening, notice of which is given in another column. Maggie was a bright child, the pet of the household, and a favorite among her schoolmates. But fell disease had seized hold upon her, and during the last few months had blighted her young life. The funeral took place Monday forenoon at the residence of the bereaved parents, and many friends of the family were present to hear testimony to their grief.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 27, 1885.
Thanks.
We shall always remember with feelings of gratitude and thankfulness the many acts of kindness shown in our last sad bereavement—the death of our darling Maggie—and the kind and thoughtful ones who prepared and laid her away in her resting place among the flowers.
WM. M. SLEETH. MARY M. H. SLEETH.
[SHERIFF’S SALES: RECAP OF THE TWO SALES LISTED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 27, 1885.
1) Byron Farrar vs. Sarah A. Drennan, Noah Griffen as the guardian of Olive E. Griffen, a lunatic, Samuel E. Maxwell, et al.
Real estate property to be sold June 29, 1885, at the south door of the courthouse in Winfield by GEO. H. McINTIRE, SHERIFF.
A. J. Pyburn, Plaintiff’s attorney.
2) Wm. M. Sleeth vs. Sarah A. Drennan, Noah Griffen as the guardian of Olive E. Griffen, a lunatic, Samuel E. Maxwell, et al.
SAME AS #1....Sheriff McIntire to sell real estate property on June 29, 1885, to settle claim. Pyburn, Plaintiff’s attorney.
[In above article "Gribben" and "Griffen" were both used.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 20, 1885.
A Fire.
Thursday afternoon at about 2 p.m., the dreaded alarm of fire was sounded. Smoke was seen issuing from the Fifth Avenue Laundry and here the excited multitude wended its way very quickly. In the course of five minutes, there were 300 persons at the scene of the conflagration. A goodly number came around with hand grenades and buckets. Everybody worked with a will to aid in the extinguishing of the fire, for everybody realized that if the dreaded element got the least headway, our town would go.
Within five feet of the building was another frame building, occupied by C. E. Butterfield as a drug store. It was soon realized that the laundry building was past saving from the flames. Men with axes fell to and hewed it down while other willing hands fastened ropes to it and pulled it out into the street. By thus scattering the debris, the flames were kept down and a liberal supply of water saved the adjoining building.
For a time water had to be packed almost a half a square which kept the flames subdued until the water works were put in operation. Judge Bonsall and Ery Miller with their hand extinguishers did noble service. The flames had gotten too much of a start for the grenades to do much service. The building was very dry and burned like so much tinder. The fire originated from the flue, it is thought, because the smoke was first seen issuing from the roof. No one knows how it commenced. Calef, one of the proprietors of the laundry, was the first to discover it, and he gave the alarm. The clothing which was there to be laundered was all about saved; about 200 collars and cuffs were lost. Nearly all the furniture belonging to Calef & Holden was destroyed. Their loss was about $200. The loss on the building was about $500. It was the property of Maj. Sleeth and H. P. Farrar. No insurance.
This is the first fire Arkansas City has been visited by for a number of years. We were unprepared for it, and if had not been for the excellent services rendered by our citizens, our town would now be in ashes. If the wind had been the least bit strong, nothing the citizens could have done would have saved us. We have no protection under the sun against fire. We have not even an organization by which some system could be adopted in subduing the dreaded element. Everybody was excited and it is ten thousand wonders that someone was not killed or severely injured. We should have an organization at least, by which something could be done without danger to life. The accident will again cause the council to take up the subject of water works. It is hoped by the public in general that they will take steps towards putting in a first class water works, a system that can be depended upon. Neighbors across the way lend a helping hand towards securing a protection against fire.
Arkansas City Republican, July 4, 1885.
Mrs. W. M. Sleeth came home Wednesday. Mrs. Sleeth has been visiting relatives in Ohio for several weeks past.
First National Bank of Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 11, 1885.
The following are the directors of the First National Bank of Arkansas City: A. B. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, J. P. Johnson, F. W. Farrar, Wm. Sleeth, and H. P. Farrar.
STEAMBOAT: "KANSAS MILLERS."
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 18, 1885.
DOWN THE ARKANSAS.
The "Kansas Millers" Takes a Delegation of Businessmen Down the River
Tuesday.
Monday an excursion on the "Kansas Millers" down the Arkansas by the businessmen was originated as the next day’s programme. Bright and early two bus loads of our citizens wended their way to the Harmon’s Ford landing and boarded the steamer. All together there were some 60 passengers. At 8:10 the steamer heaved anchor and in a very few moments we were out of sight of the many spectators who came down to see the excursionists start. We steamed down the river at a lively rate. In twenty minutes we were out of the mouth of the Walnut. On entering the Arkansas the speed of the vessel was increased and in a few minutes we were steaming along at the rate of 18 miles per hour. The passengers gave themselves up entirely to the enjoyment of the trip. All were inclined to be jolly and forget business cares one day at least. Cracking jokes, perpetrating harmless tricks, enjoying the beautiful trip down the Rackensack. The steamer had a canvas awning put up to keep out the scorching rays of the sun, and as the cool breezes came up the river, one and all felt it was good to be there.
At 9:15 we landed at the Grouse Creek ferry, about 20 miles downstream, to put off some freight which V. M. Ayres had shipped to Gilbert’s and Newman’s ranches. This was the first consignment of freight to the "Kansas Millers." It consisted of 50 bushels of corn and several hundred weight of flour. The passengers, full of life, took the place of deck hands and soon had the cargo landed.
Once more we heaved anchor and steamed down the river about five miles, and landed in a beautiful grove on the Kaw reservation. When the steamer had been made fast, all clambered ashore, and ran and jumped like school boys. While ashore C. A. Burnett took advantage of our absence and in a short time had spread a picnic lunch. All ate their fill. It was a splendid bill of fare, and Charley and his efficient cook deserve mention for their efforts to refresh the inner man. After partaking of the bounteous feast and the remnants being cleared away, we steamed up the river for home.
Capt. Moorhead ran the boat across several sand bars to show the passengers that it was impossible to stick the steel-bottomed steamer. After this had been fully demonstrated, the passengers were called to order by A. V. Alexander and a meeting was held for the purpose of organizing a stock company to build steel-bottomed barges. Mayor Schiffbauer was chosen to preside and N. T. Snyder was chosen to be secretary. Mayor Schiffbauer made a few remarks stating what great advantages Arkansas City would gain by having navigation opened on the Arkansas. He stated that Capt. T. S. Moorhead informed him that coal could be bought in quantities for $2, and laid down in Arkansas City so that it could be sold by dealers for $5 or $6 per ton. It was good coal, better than that which we had been paying $8 per ton for. Over 12 tons of the coal had been burned on the "Kansas Millers" and out of that not a clinker had been found. He spoke also of lumber trade with Arkansas. Jim Hill next occupied the attention of the passengers. He was followed by T. S. Moorhead, Dr. Kellogg, Judge McIntire, and several others who spoke in glowing terms of the steamer and the navigation of the river. After the question of building barges had been thoroughly discussed, the meeting proceeded to subscribe stock. Shares were taken until over $2,000 had been subscribed. The sum needed was $5,000. The meeting adjourned then until 7:30 p.m., when they met in Meigs & Nelson’s real estate office to finish up the $5,000 stock company.
After the adjournment of the meeting, the crowd gave themselves up once more to enjoyment. At five o’clock we anchored at Harmon’s Ford. Getting aboard Archie Dunn’s busses, we were soon uptown. And thus ended a day of great recreation and profitable pleasure.
NOTES.
The sun was very warm coming upstream, compelling all passengers to seek shady nooks.
Alexander was the story-teller. He was not a success—cause audience went to sleep.
Spencer Bliss, Dr. Evans, and J. W. Millspaugh of Winfield were down and took in the excursion.
Frank Greer, of the Courier, and Prof. B. T. Davis, of the Tribune, were the representatives of the Winfield press and were busy all day with paper and pencil.
The REPUBLICAN office furnished the bill of fare cards.
NAVIGATION COMPANY.
Searing & Mead, Wood & Bliss, of Winfield, V. M. Ayres and the Arkansas City Roller Mill Company compose the navigation company. V. M. Ayres is president and C. H. Searing Secretary. These four milling firms, having practicably demonstrated that the Arkansas is navigable by steamers on the pattern of the "Kansas Millers," and having used $7,000 to further the enterprise already, naturally turn to the town most benefitted for assistance in the furthering of the enterprise. The directors are B. F. Wood, Maj. W. M. Sleeth, and James Hill.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 25, 1885.
SKIPPED BIG ARTICLE ON FRONT PAGE RE DEATH OF GEN. U. S. GRANT. DETAILS RE GRANT’S SERVICE AS GENERAL AND PRESIDENT ARE GIVEN.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 25, 1885.
In Honor of the Dead Hero.
The Grant mass meeting of the citizens at Highland Opera House Thursday evening was well attended. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Schiffbauer and Judge Sumner was chosen chairman and Frederick Lockley secretary. The meeting was held in respect of the dead hero, Gen. Grant, and to make preparations for the observance of his funeral. Remarks were made by Chairman Sumner, Revs. Fleming, Campbell, and Buckner, T. J. Stafford, and others. Committees were appointed as follows.
On arrangements: A. J. Pyburn, Cal. Dean, Frederic Lockley, Revs. Campbell, and Buckner, Al. Mowry, and Maj. Sleeth.
On resolutions: Frederic Lockley, Judge McIntire, and Maj. Sleeth.
The G. A. R. appointed the following committee on arrangements, which unites with the citizen’s committee. Dr. C. R. Fowler, J. P. Musselman, Jim Ridenour, S. J. Rice, S. C. Lindsay, D. D. Bishop, and Col. E. Neff. The committee were instructed to meet at the Mayor’s office yesterday morning at 9 o’clock and report, and the meeting adjourned.
At 9:30 yesterday Mayor Schiffbauer called the committees to order and presided over the meeting. R. C. Howard was chosen secretary.
It was moved and seconded that the Opera House be utilized to hold the exercises in, and if that proved too small to accommodate the crowd that one of the churches of the city be held in reserve, and have memorial exercises at both places. And also that the military exercises be turned over to the Grand Army.
It was decided not to have an orator of the day, but that each speaker be limited to ten minutes’ time, and that an invitation be extended to the ministry of the city and the legal fraternity and others to furnish these speeches.
The secretary was requested to inform Prof. J. W. Duncan that he had been selected by the committee to take charge of the singing exercises and that he also be instructed to extend an invitation to each church choir to join him in the furnishing of the music.
It was thought best to do nothing further until it was ascertained when the funeral would occur and see if a proclamation would not be issued directing the arrangement of the programme either from the president or commander-in-chief of the Grand Army.
On motion the meeting adjourned to meet at the call of the chairman.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 5, 1885.
Law and Order Association.
Union services were held in the Baptist Church on Sabbath evening, which were attended by a crowded audience. After some excellent music by the choir, Rev. J. O. Campbell announced that the meeting was held in the interest of law and order, and to give permanency and effect to the movement, an organization should be effected by the election of officers. The meeting then elected the following officers.
President: W. M. Sleeth.
Secretary: N. T. Snyder.
Executive committee: Messrs. Adams, Barron, Jenkins, and O. P. Houghton.
Prayer was offered by J. P. Witt.
The following resolutions were read and adopted.
Resolved, That we call the attention of the county attorney and the probate judge to the necessity of an immediate investigation of the open and notorious violation of the prohibition law in our city.
Resolved, That we respectfully ask our municipal authority to use all diligence in the enforcement of all Sabbatarian laws on the statute book.
Resolved, That these resolutions be published in the city papers, and forwarded to the proper persons.
Brief and effective addresses were made by Revs. Campbell and Buckner, W. M. Jenkins’, and Councilman Jacob Hight. Great interest in the proceedings was manifested by the entire audience.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 8, 1885.
Law and Order Meeting.
A large and enthusiastic meeting was held in the Baptist Church, last Sabbath evening, in the interest of law and order in our community. The meeting was organized by calling Maj. Sleeth to the chair, and appointing N. T. Snyder, secretary.
Some excellent music was rendered by the choir, after which Rev. Fleming read the Law of Mt. Sinai and the thirteenth chapter of Romans, and Rev. Witt led in prayer. Short speeches were made by Messrs. Hill, Jenkins, Campbell, Fleming, Buckner, Witt, Kreamer, Hight, and others.
The meeting developed the fact that there is a deep and wide-spread feeling bordering on indignation in the hearts of the people at the lawlessness apparent on every hand. Notable in connection with the Sabbath and prohibition laws was this spirit developed. While law-abiding citizens have nothing to fear, and can rely upon the moral strength of the community; yet the individual who wilfully and wantonly violates the laws upon our statute books need ask no favors or quarter as this will not be shown. That this is the case seemed to be the conviction of those who were present in the meeting. There is unquestionably a wicked and wanton violation of both the prohibition and Sabbath laws which is fast giving to our fair young city an unenviable reputation abroad; and against this wholesale iniquity the combined moral force of the community will make itself felt.
It is not the disposition of outraged public feeling to be lenient toward those who have so flagrantly violated not only the spirit but the letter of the law and therefore all law breakers must take the consequences if caught in the toils of an outraged public sentiment when it rises to enforce the law.
As expressing the sense of the meeting, the following resolutions were read and adopted.
Resolved, That we call the attention of the county attorney and the probate judge to the necessity of an immediate investigation of the open and notorious violations of the prohibition law in our city.
Resolved, That we respectfully ask our municipal authorities to use all diligence in the enforcement of all sabbatical laws on the statute books.
Resolved, That these resolutions be published in the city papers, and forwarded to the proper persons.
The meeting was adjourned to meet the next Sabbath evening in September, place to be announced hereafter.
Arkansas City Republican, August 15, 1885.
Stockholders Meeting. There will be a meeting of the Stockholders of the Arkansas Water Power Company at the First National Bank of Arkansas City on September 19th, 1885, at the hour of 7 o’clock P.M. WM. SLEETH, Sec.
WATER AND GAS PROPOSED FOR ARKANSAS CITY.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 19, 1885.
THE WATER QUESTION.
A Proposition to Erect Water and Gas Works Considered in a Citizens’ Meeting.
Agreeable to the call of the mayor, about one hundred of our citizens assembled at Highland Hall on Friday evening, to listen to the proposals of Theodore Plate, of St. Louis, and J. B. Quigley, of Belleville, Illinois, to construct gas and waterworks in this city, and to express their views on the same. Precisely at 8 o’clock, Mayor Schiffbauer called the meeting to order and proposed that James L. Huey be appointed chairman. This motion being approved, N. T. Snyder was then chosen secretary of the meeting.
Mayor Schiffbauer being called on to explain the object of the gathering, said he had been corresponding with the gentlemen above named for some time, and since their arrival in the city, at noon the previous day, had been put full in possession of the nature of their offer. They were men of ample means, fully able to carry out any undertaking with our citizens they might embark in, and experienced in the construction and conduct of gas and waterworks. They proposed to furnish the city both water and gas, and asked no aid in erecting the machinery. He (the speaker) had been favorably impressed with the offer made by the gentlemen, and he would describe it as well as he was able to the citizens present.
For the supply of water they propose to put in two duplex compound pumps, so arranged as to be run separately or together, and capable of raising one million gallons of water every twenty-four hours. These pumps will be run by two boilers, also to run separately or together, capable of running both pumps at their full capacity with easy firing. They agree to furnish 14,000 feet of standard iron water pipe, 2,250 feet of which is 8 inches bore, to be laid along Summit street, the size of the remainder of the pipe to be determined by the requirement. The stand pipe will be made of the best boiler iron, 8 feet in diameter and 100 feet high. The city is required to take sixty fire plugs at a yearly rental of $50 each.
The quality of the gas to be furnished by these gentlemen will be standard, or 16 candle power, and the city will be required to take thirty street lamps at a yearly cost of $30 each. The price of the gas to private consumers will be $2.75 per 1,000 feet for the first 5,000 feet daily consumption, and this price to decrease two cents per 1,000 feet until the daily consumption shall reach 55,000 feet, when the price will be and remain at $1.75 per 1,000 feet.
The parties ask fifteen days to file an unencumbered real estate bond in the amount of $20,000 in each franchise of the contract, and as a guaranty that the works shall perform the requirements of the test. They engage to throw a stream of water 50 feet high from any fire hydrants the council may select, from the standpipe pressure alone, the pumps not to run at the time of the test, and to throw water 85 feet high, with 65 lbs. of steam, independent of the standpipe pressure.
They further engage to have both gas and water works completed and ready for testing by the first of January next.
A pause followed this statement of the mayor, and the chair then asked for an expression of opinion.
Major Sleeth arose and said the great want of the community was pure water; but it was necessary first to determine where shall be the source of supply, before we build our water works. He would like a chemical analysis made of the water before it is adopted for use, in order that we may proceed with some certainty. Gas, he thought, was in advance of our present wants; we have enough of that commodity around already. He was pleased to see his fellow citizens assembled to deliberate on this matter, the city council had wrestled with it to slight purpose. He wanted to hear others speak.
Major Searing said the unfortunate experience of our neighbor cities in the construction of water works should teach us caution on the present occasion. In Wichita the mistake had been made of not getting elevation enough. He favored an elevation of at least fifty feet. Also, he would not have the main pipe less than 12 inches in diameter, and the distributing pipes should never be less than four inches.
Mr. T. H. McLaughlin wanted this work prosecuted with caution. The proposition before the meeting would cause an outlay of $3,000 a year, and it might not give a corresponding benefit. Other parties might be willing to furnish a water system for less than the offer made by these men.
Mr. A. D. Prescott favored competition, and did not approve of determining this matter hastily. Before we build water works, we must make up our minds where we are to get our water from. But he did not favor both propositions.
Mr. Plate being called for, said before he and his friend, Mr. Quigley, started for this city, they were under the impression that our water works were constructed. Mr. O’Neil had called several times at their office, who represented that he had built our water works, and he offered the franchise to build gas works for sale at a low price. This franchise allows till September 24th to begin their construction, and requires that they be completed by November 21st. He had been suspicious of the gentleman from the low price he asked for his franchise, and on arriving here found that he had misrepresented facts. He called the attention of those present to the fact that the proposition submitted to our citizens required no bonus, no expenditure of money to build the works from the city. The only privilege he and his partner asked was leave to put in the works and lay the pipes at their own expense, and to sell water and gas to consumers at the lowest price it could be afforded. They had put down the price of the plugs $10 below Mr. O’Neil’s offer. No profit was to be derived from furnishing a city of our present size, and they expected to make no profit for two or three years. But they proposed to erect works of adequate capacity to supply a city of 20,000 to 25,000 inhabitants, and if our city attained to any such size then our contract with them would be remunerative. But they declined to furnish water on the terms offered unless their gas proposition was also accepted. As a matter of fact, he believed the gas franchise given to O’Neil was still valid and could be held to, but he and his friend had no thought of undertaking any work that was not sustained by the good will of the people.
Several other speakers having urged deliberation, Mayor Schiffbauer inquired if in going as slow as was recommended, there was not danger of going down. We had paid a heavy penalty for slowness in the recent fire, and it was necessary to bestir ourselves if we would avoid another such a calamity. The contract he would make with these parties would bind them to supply a sufficient amount of good wholesome water, and we could safely trust to their judgment in locating their works. But no one is going to dig around and prospect and plat unless some assurance is offered them that their time and money will not be wasted. The machinery these men engaged to put up would furnish a barrel of water a day to every man, woman, and child, and then leave enough to put out fires.
Some mechanical details having been entered into by Mr. J. G. Danks and others, Mr. Quigley explained that the works he proposed to build, with a cut off from the main, and a pressure of fifty pounds, would throw a stream fifty feet. The pressure increased to 150 pounds would give a stream 192 feet high. He thought there would be no trouble experienced in procuring a supply of pure water, as in these western rivers there is always an undercurrent which is comparatively free from impurities. He understood there was a stratum of rock underlying this city, beneath which there was a constant flow of water. To test whether this would suffice for a supply, he would take three or four threshing machines and pump continuously several million gallons of water. If no exhaustion [?] was produced, he would consider that source adapted for the city use. The speaker explained his plans at some length, which it is not necessary to report here.
The mayor said as a number of our citizens was gathered to discuss the water question, he desired an expression of their will to aid the deliberations of the city council. After a long discussion of the matter, Messrs. Sleeth, McLaughlin, and J. G. Danks were appointed a committee to act with a committee of the city council, and combine in a report recommending a plan of action to the city council. The meeting then adjourned.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 19, 1885.
W. M. SLEETH, President. ESTABLISHED 1872. H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK, -OF ARKANSAS CITY-
(SUCCESSOR TO COWLEY COUNTY BANK.)
YOUR BUSINESS SOLICITED.
DIRECTORS: A. B. JOHNSON, FRED W. FARRAR, A. D. PRESCOTT,
J. P. JOHNSON, W. M. SLEETH, H. P. FARRAR.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 22, 1885.
The Water Works.
A good representation was had of the businessmen at the water works meeting in Highland Opera House last Friday evening. Mayor Schiffbauer called the meeting to order at 8 p.m., and J. L. Huey was chosen chairman and N. T. Snyder, secretary. Mayor Schiffbauer stated that the meeting had been called to discuss the water works question; that Messrs. Plate and Quigley were here from St. Louis with a proposition which they wished to submit to the citizens of Arkansas City for putting in gas and water works. The proposition was to the effect that they put them in for the franchise, the city agreeing to take 60 fire plugs, at a rental of $50 a year and also take 30 street lights at $30 each per annum. Speeches were made on the subject by Maj. Sleeth, J. G. Danks, A. D. Prescott, J. P. Johnson, O. P. Houghton, Maj. Searing, Mayor Schiffbauer, and others. The gist of their remarks was that we needed and must have water works; but at present we were unable to put in gas works.
Messrs. Quigley and Plate did not want one without the other on this proposition so the matter was ended in regard to it. These gentlemen desire to put in a bid when we have water works put in. They propose what we think is a good system, and by their talk they showed that they were perfectly conversant with the water works question. They propose the stand-pipe system and explained it in detail to those present.
During the meeting a motion was made and carried that a committee be appointed from the citizens meeting and city council to investigate the different systems of water works of our neighboring cities and report which they thought was the best. J. G. Danks and Maj. Sleeth were selected to represent the citizens, and Monday night Councilmen Dean, Dunn, Thompson, and Mayor Schiffbauer were taken from the city council. On motion the meeting was adjourned to await the report of the committee.
The time has come for some action to be taken. The citizens of Arkansas City have expressed their desire for water works. The start has been made to get them. Let the ball be pushed forward rapidly. Protection from fire for our town we must have and right now is the accepted time to get it.
Arkansas City Republican, August 22, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Isaac Griffin, from Belmont County, Ohio, were in the city the first of the week. They are acquaintances of Mr. and Mrs. Maj. Sleeth. Mr. Griffin is out west prospecting and may conclude to locate in this vicinity.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 29, 1885.
Our New Business Blocks.
From time to time the REPUBLICAN has made mention of the various handsome business blocks as they commenced erection, but we have never gone into details.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Co., Maj. Sleeth, and H. P. Farrar will put up two business blocks next spring.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 29, 1885.
Sleeping.
That is just what we are doing. We are letting the golden opportunities pass and are not reaping our reward. We shall wake up some fine day to find that our city is left and badly left.
About a year ago we had a chance to secure the location of a woolen mill here, and later on parties came here looking for a location for a hominy mill; following this comes a proposition for the location of a canning factory, and last but not the least, a proposition to put in operation here a wagon factory. Have we secured any of the above? No. Again I repeat—we are sleeping. And while we have been doing nothing, other cities have taken up what we refused. Wichita took in the corn or hominy mill; Independence the canning factory; and now Winfield is building for the woolen and cotton mill, and will get it, and we will be left to take the tag ends as they come floating down the Walnut River.
Are we to remain in this "don’t care" attitude and let all our chances for a large and prosperous city pass by?
I do not need to fill the space in the REPUBLICAN by setting forth our advantages over other cities. Every businessman, every citizen of Arkansas City knows that our natural advantages are excelled by no city in the state; with a little money and work we could corral anything we needed to improve and promote the prosperity of Arkansas City. As a citizen, and one who desires to see Arkansas City in the near future with a population of 10,000 people, I would suggest that a meeting be called to look after our woolen mills, which Mr. Sleeth has in charge, and resurrect it, if possible, and locate it where it ought to be on our own canal. Let us rise up and do something. Let our motto be onward and upward, with the progress of time. TICE.
WATER WORKS.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 2, 1885.
SHALL WE HAVE WATER WORKS?
Meeting of Citizens To Determine the Question.
An Indifferent Crowd Who Have No Will To Express.
The citizens’ meeting on Friday to provide water works for the city, called by the committee appointed at a previous meeting, was slightly attended. At 8 o’clock, the hour designated, less than a score of persons were in the hall. Half an hour after about sixty had assembled, and the meeting was called to order by the appointment of J. P. Johnson for chairman and Frederic Lockley secretary.
The committee was called upon for the reading of its report. In the absence of Major Sleeth, chairman of the committee, Mayor Schiffbauer explained that at the former meeting of citizens, Messrs. Sleeth, Searing, and J. G. Danks had been appointed a committee on behalf of the citizens, to act with three members of the city council to be chosen at the next meeting of that body. He had appointed Messrs. Thompson, Dean, and Dunn, and the committee had added himself to the number. It was contemplated that visits should be paid to neighboring cities to inquire into their systems of water works; but as this would involve expense, and the methods in use supplying water in Winfield, Wichita, Wellington, and Newton were pretty well known to the committee, they had contented themselves with formulating a plan adapted to the needs of our city which they had embodied in a report. The reading of the same being called for, the mayor read as follows.
REPORT OF THE WATER WORKS COMMITTEE.
To the citizens of Arkansas City.
GENTLEMEN: We, the committee to whom was referred the matter of water works, would respectfully submit the following report.
1st. In our judgment the supply should be obtained at the springs now used by the city for water supply; provided, that after being subjected to a thorough test, the supply shall be found adequate to meet all demands, and the quality to be pure and wholesome, and provided further, that the company securing the franchise will guarantee to exclude all surface matter from said springs.
2nd. That in case the supply at the springs shall be found to be inadequate, or that the surface matter cannot be excluded, then in our opinion, the supply should be obtained from a filter basin near the Arkansas River.
3rd. The system should be standpipe and holly combined; that is to say, the works to be so arranged that the standpipe can be shut off from the main and give direct pressure from the pumps into the mains.
4th. The standpipe is to be of iron, to be 25 feet in diameter, and sixty feet high, placed on a tower 50 feet high, built of stone laid in cement.
5th. There shall be two pumps, each capable of pumping one million gallons every 24 hours, so arranged as to be run either separately or together; and two boilers arranged the same as pumps, and each capable to run the pumps at full capacity with easy firing.
6th. In our opinion there will be required 5,630 feet of 12 inch main, running from the works, if situated where the present works stand, through Third Avenue east to Fourth Street, and from Third Avenue north through Summit Street to Ninth Avenue; 8,310 feet of 8 inch main to be placed in Sixth and Eighth Streets, running from Third Avenue north To Seventh Avenue and through Ninth Avenue, running from Fourth Street west to Tenth Street; 12,470 feet of 4 inch pipe to be placed in Fourth, Fifth, Ninth, and Tenth Streets, and running from Third Avenue north to Ninth Avenue, and from Tenth Street west to Eleventh Street, thence south to Eighth Avenue, thence east to Tenth Street.
7th. That in order to give proper fire protection for the territory covered by this plant, it will require 59 fire plugs to be placed along this system, which plugs we have located as per map, which can be seen at the city office. We therefore recommend that the city take 60 hydrants, and in lieu of the additional hydrant, the city cause to be contracted a watering and drinking fountain for the use and benefit of the public, which should be open and free at all times. Said fountain to be placed on Fifth Avenue, near Summit Street.
8th. We would further recommend that the city solicit bids for the construction of such a system of works, taking the number of hydrants as a basis, and that the successful bidder be required to furnish bonds to the city in the penal sum of $20,000 for the faithful performance of the contract, and guaranteeing that the work, when completed, shall be capable of throwing water from 5 hydrants at the same time from standpipe pressure alone a distance of 65 feet high; and by direct pressure from pumps, 100 feet high.
Your committee desire to state that as the city council made no appropriation to defray expenses, they have not made any effort to visit other works, and from the most reliable information we have been able to gather, we are of the opinion that the standpipe and holly system is the only feasible system for our city to adopt, and in the system we have herein suggested both these are combined.
W. M. SLEETH,
CHAS. H. SEARING,
J. G. DANKS,
C. G. THOMPSON,
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER,
CALVIN DEAN,
ARCHIE DUNN.
The chair inquired what should be done with the report. A pause ensued. The secretary moved that the report be accepted, but he found no second to his motion. To remove the chilling apathy, Mr. Lockley explained that his motion was necessary to bring the report before the meeting for discussion, but it did not involve its adoption. The disposal of the report would be effected by a subsequent motion. This brought out a weak-voiced second to the motion. On the motion being put by the chair, not a voice was raised in support or disapproval.
Judge Kreamer in reproof of this deathlike apathy said he thought the meeting should take interest enough in the proceedings to express its will on the question before it. The committee had devoted time and labor to perform the duty assigned it, and now that its report was submitted, it was the business of those present to accept or reject, not to let the matter go by default.
The motion of the secretary being again put to the meeting, it was adopted by an emphatic vote.
Mayor Schiffbauer went over the report and explained its provisions in a detailed commentary.
Jacob Hight said he would like to know something about this funeral; it was inexplicable to him because he saw no corpse. He had listened to the report of the committee with interest; they had reduced the question of a water supply for the city to tangible shape, and he for one thanked them for their intelligent labors. A good and efficient system of water works was not only of interest at the present time, but it affected the welfare and happiness of our children and our children’s children. The proposition set forth in the report appeared to him reasonable and adapted to our wants, but he hoped to hear it discussed with becoming spirit. No city could prosper and present a good bill of health that was not provided with an adequate system of pure water. He was aware the city was not able to put in its own water works, and hence it must contract with other parties to supply the machinery. It was agreed by all that our want was a pressing one, and now was the time to do something definite and decisive toward the accomplishment of that end. The committee was to be commended for spending no money at the expense of the city treasury in running about the country.
A. D. Prescott was much gratified with the report; he agreed with the last speaker that it entitled the committee to the thanks of the people in whose interest they had labored. The question of expense was first to be considered, and he desired to know whether the outlay involved in the plan proposed could not be cut down. Any company that undertakes to build water works for a city, does so with a view to the profit to be made; and their charge would be based on the sum of money expended. He thought provision was made for an unnecessary length of 12-inch pipe. The size of the standpipe might also be reduced. He would like to hear some estimate of the probable cost of the system sketched in the committee’s report.
J. G. Danks said the main that was proposed to be laid might be larger than the present wants of the city; but the committee thought it best to lay pipes big enough to answer future needs and save the expense of tearing them up five or ten years from now to substitute others of larger capacity. An efficient water supply in case of fire must be provided at all cost. An 8-inch main might answer all purposes for the next five or six years, but if the city attains the growth we expect, at the end of that time it will be inadequate. Iron pipe laid down here would cost from $35 to $40 a ton. The cost of the tower, the standpipe, the engine, and pumps could only be learned from the bids to be sent in. He thought the total expense of the system proposed in the committee’s report would be about $50,000. Sixty hydrants were proposed, and for this reason, the rent of 40 hydrants would aggregate as much as the rent of the larger number. The first contract also sets the standard of rents; and if more hydrants should be required at any future time, the rent will be the same as of those already in use. And he believed the city could not be properly protected from fire with a smaller number.
Judge Kreamer moved as the sense of the meeting that the committee be authorized to advertise for bids, and report the result at a future meeting, which was adopted. Adjourned.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 5, 1885.
Report of Water Works Committee.
At the meeting of the citizens in Highland Hall last Friday evening the committee who were to get up the plans on water works reported as follows, which was accepted.
To the Citizens of Arkansas City:
GENTLEMEN: We, the committee to whom you referred the matter of water works, would respectfully submit the following report.
1st. In our judgment the supply should be obtained at the springs now used by the city for water supply; provided, that after being subjected to a thorough test, the supply shall be found adequate to meet all demands, and the quality to be pure and wholesome, and provided further, that the company securing the franchise will guarantee to exclude all surface matter from said springs.
2nd. That in case the supply at the springs should be found to be inadequate, or that surface matter cannot be excluded, then in our opinion the supply should be obtained from a filter basis near the Arkansas river.
[Note: This article covered eight items altogether. However, it was in such small print that I could not read items 3 through 8. MAW]
Your committee desires to state that as the city council made no appropriation to defray expenses, they have not made any effort to visit works, and from the most reliable information we have been able to gather we are of the opinion that the standpipe and holly system is the only feasible system for our city to accept, and in the system we have herein suggested so these are combined.
W. M. SLEETH.
CHAS. H. SEARING.
J. G. DANKS.
C. G. THOMPSON.
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER.
CALVIN DEAN.
ARCHIE DUNN.
Arkansas City Republican, September 5, 1885.
Mrs. Wm. Sleeth is on the sick list this week.
Major Sleeth was not present at the following meeting...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 16, 1885.
WATER WORKS QUESTION.
The Citizens Reject Mr. Quigley’s Second Proposition.
The meeting of citizens held in Highland Hall on Thursday evening was called by the water works committee to learn their views on the proposition submitted by Mr. J. B. Quigley, of St. Louis. This gentleman was here some months ago with his partner, Mr. Platter, and then the pair submitted a proposition to build gas and water works for the city, owning the franchise, and charging $4,000 for the public use of the water and gas. That is, they agreed to furnish a water system, which was generally approved by those competent to form an opinion, on condition that the city pay $50 a year rental for 60 fire hydrants, making an annual tax of $3,000. They also offered to build gas works, and furnish consumers with an excellent quality of illuminating gas for $2.50 a thousand feet, the city being required to pay for 30 street lamps, at the rate of $30 a year each. This would be an additional charge of $900. They refused, for good reasons given at the time, and repeated by Mr. Quigley at the meeting on Thursday evening, to accept one franchise without the other.
The matter was debated with due deliberation at the former meeting, and the conclusion arrived at was that the city was not then ready to bear the burden of lighting the streets, and before the offer to build water works was adopted, they preferred to invite bids from other responsible parties. A committee was appointed to formulate a plan for the water supply, and advertise in the proper channels for proposals to construct the same.
The work assigned the committee was being intelligently and diligently performed, when Mr. Quigley, who happened to be in Hutchinson, and hearing that our citizens were still laboring on a water works system, inquired of Mayor Schiffbauer by telegram whether a modified proposition would be received. The latter expressed his doubt, in a reply, but invited the gentleman to come and make his offer. He arrived here on the Wednesday train, and that evening laid his proposition before that body. It may be briefly given as follows.
An iron standpipe, ten feet in diameter and 110 feet high. Two compound duplex pumps, each capable of raising 1,000,000 gallons of water in 24 hours. Two boilers capable of running the machinery with easy firing. The main to consist of 5,800 feet of 10-inch pipe, 3,200 feet of 8-inch, 6,200 feet of 6-inch, and 7,400 feet of 4-inch pipe. The machinery is guaranteed to throw water from five plugs 65 feet high by standpipe pressure alone, and 100 feet from pump power. Mr. Quigley asks 30 days to file a bond for $20,000 for the satisfactory fulfillment of his contract. The city will be required to take 65 fire plugs and a rental of $50 a plug per annum. All the mains to be standard condition, and to be extended 600 feet for every six consumers.
The committee was favorably impressed with the offer, but feeling that their instructions did not warrant them to act without authority, they thought it proper to call another public meeting and take the sense of the people. The meeting was held on Thursday evening, about 150 persons being in attendance.
All of the committee was there, except Major Sleeth, and several of the members set forth their reasons for recommending the acceptance of Mr. Quigley’s offer. They may be summarized as follows. The plan originally proposed, the details of which were in print for mailing to pump makers and contractors, involved too great an outlay, and would impose too heavy cost on the city. The standpipe of the dimensions given above, and the water mains graduated from ten to four inches, would suffice for a city of 30,000 to 40,000 inhabitants, and would certainly answer our wants for many years to come. It would be well to accept the offer now because there was the prospect of a dull winter before us; the erection of the machinery and the laying of the pipes would afford employment to scores of our workmen, and the evidence of progress and enterprise, made manifest by such a work, would give our city a good name abroad and be apt to attract capital and population hither. While to decline this offer and advertise for this would cause a delay of two months, the winter is a bad time to prosecute such an undertaking, and it was most likely that nothing would be done in the way of procuring a water supply till next year.
These statements were met by arguments from Messrs. Meigs, T. H. McLaughlin, Prescott, Cunningham, and others, that as the city had waited so long, the further delay of a few weeks would not be detrimental. Mr. Quigley had made his offer, but there might be others who were willing to do the work for less. It would be in conformity with business rules to put it up to competition and take the lowest bidder. Mr. Quigley’s present one was nearly $1,000 a year better than the offer he made before; under the spur of a little wholesome competition, he might find it to his interest to make a still better offer, and the delay involved would be fully justified by the possible advantage to be gained.
The above is the substance of the reasoning used on both sides, until to bring the matter to an issue. Mr. J. P. Johnson moved that the committee be held to their former instructions to advertise for bids, which was amended by G. W. Cunningham restraining that body from opening any bids before October 12th. Both amendment and the original motion were negatived by the meeting. Judge Kreamer then moved that Mr. Quigley’s offer be accepted, which was submitted to a rising vote. The chair and the secretary (James L. Huey and N. T. Snyder) counted noses and pronounced the vote a tie. It was then proposed that the vote be taken by ballot, but on Mr. Dean’s suggestion that so indeterminate an expression of public sentiment would have no weight with him as a councilman, but he should be left to the exercise of his own judgment, a motion to adjourn was entertained and the meeting broke up leaving the committee to act as they thought best in the matter. As their instructions were not modified by the citizens they called together to consult with, we cannot see that they can act in any other way than to go on and advertise for bids.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 23, 1885.
On the adjournment of the county convention, the delegates from the second commissioner district met in the same hall, to choose a candidate to succeed Commissioner Walton. Louis P. King presided, N. T. Snyder was appointed secretary. The names of J. D. Guthrie, of Bolton, and W. M. Sleeth, of Arkansas City, were presented, the choice rested on the former by a vote of 42 to 8. This closed the business of the day.
Excerpt from lengthy meeting...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 26, 1885.
Republican County Convention.
After the election of the Central Committee, the convention adjourned, and the delegates from the 2nd district proceeded to nominate a commissioner. Louis P. King was chosen chairman, and N. T. Snyder, secretary. J. D. Guthrie of Bolton Township and William Sleeth were named for commissioners. A vote being taken resulted 42 for the former and 8 for the latter, and Mr. Guthrie was declared the nominee, which, upon motion, was made unanimous.
Arkansas City Republican, October 3, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Sleeth left Wednesday for Cleveland, Ohio. They go for the benefit of Mrs. Sleeth’s health.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, October 21, 1885.
Water Works Committee.
ARKANSAS CITY, COWLEY CO., KANSAS, October 19th, 1885.
To the citizens of Arkansas City.
GENTLEMEN: In the absence of Mr. W. M. Sleeth, chairman of your water works committee, I have been requested by a member of said committee to cause to be published the following statement.
We acted under your instruction and advertised for bids on the system of works adopted by your committee, giving 30 days notice, and the bids were to be opened at 12 o’clock noon, on the 12th inst.; when the time came no bids had been received, nor has any come to hand since, neither has any water works man appeared to make any offer in the matter. Therefore, we can only conclude that our duties have been performed and the whole matter again reverts back to where we commenced. Any further action on our part would be without instruction; we therefore recommend that the citizens make their further pleasure in the matter known to the city council. Hoping this mode of making our report will meet your approval, we remain yours to command. F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, For Committee.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 28, 1885.
Major Sleeth returned on Saturday from Ohio, leaving his wife to recuperate by change of air.
Arkansas City Republican, October 31, 1885.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth returned home Tuesday, leaving Mrs. Sleeth at Cleveland to regain her impaired health.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.
A Citizens Committee.
Last Monday evening several of our leading citizens met in the office of Judge Pyburn, for the purpose of organizing a citizens committee, its object to be to protect and promote the interest of Arkansas City, in any way that would tend to help and sustain the rapid growth of the Border City. A. J. Pyburn was called to the chair, and M. N. Sinnott was elected secretary. A temporary organization was made and an adjournment was taken until Tuesday evening at the same place, when a permanent organization was made by electing A. J. Pyburn, president; H. D. Kellogg, vice president; M. N. Sinnott, secretary; N. T. Snyder, assistant secretary; W. D. Mowry, treasurer. A finance committee was also appointed consisting of the following: A. A. Newman, H. O. Meigs, and W. D. Kreamer. Also an executive committee as follows: G. W. Cunningham, Wm. Sleeth, Amos Walton, H. D. Kellogg, N. T. Snyder, T. H. McLaughlin, W. D. Mowry, A. D. Prescott, and F. P. Schiffbauer. Committee made an assessment of $5.00 on all members and it was also decided that any citizen of good standing could become a member by paying the same fee.
The following are the charter members.
Names selected by the committee: Chas. Sipes, Geo. Howard, Geo. Cunningham, Wm. Mowry, Rev. Fleming, F. P. Schiffbauer, A. J. Pyburn, H. O. Meigs, Jas. L. Huey, Wm. Sleeth, W. D. Kreamer, A. A. Newman, A. D. Prescott, Jacob Hight, T. H. McLaughlin, O. S. Rarick, Jamison Vawter, J. P. Johnson, H. D. Kellogg, Ed. Grady, O. P. Houghton, M. N. Sinnott, Geo. W. Miller, N. T. Snyder, Amos Walton, Jas. Ridenour.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.
The Citizen’s Executive Committee was called together yesterday and met in Judge Pyburn’s office for the purpose of taking steps to plank the west bridge over the Arkansas. A. A. Newman, Maj. Sleeth, and T. H. McLaughlin were appointed as a committee to solicit aid, and were instructed to purchase lumber and repair the bridge. Our friends west of the city will in a few days be able to communicate again with us over a new bridge.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 4, 1885.
CITIZENS’ COMMITTEE.
A Popular Movement to Advance the City’s Interests.
On Monday evening of last week, about a score of our prominent citizens held a meeting in Judge Pyburn’s office to consider the most practicable means of advancing the interests of this city. The views expressed were that in a rapidly growing country, where incoming population is apt to seek new channels, and business interests are created by the changing tide of affairs, it is necessary for every city that seeks growth and prosperity to be on the alert and lend its hand in shaping matters to its own advantage. It was agreed that to put the forces of a community to the best avail, it is necessary to have some organization to depute some number of men of good judgment and business acumen to watch the changes in the kaleidoscope of social life, and suggest means for turning them to proper advantage; to perform the duty of a picket guard in the army. In fact, holding themselves in an advanced position, and watching every movement that comes under their notice. As an initial step to the organization sought after, the meeting chose of the persons present, Messrs. A. A. Newman, A. D. Prescott, G. W. Miller, N. T. Snyder, and Amos Walton as an executive committee, with power to add to their number, and report to a public meeting to be held in the Opera house the following evening.
On Tuesday the Buckskin Border Band stationed outside that popular place of amusement, gave notice to the public that business was to be done by playing several choice airs in their usual artistic style. Several score of people gave heed to the summons, and by 8 o’clock there were about a hundred assembled. The meeting was called to order, Mayor Schiffbauer was chosen chairman, and our new postmaster, M. N. Sinnott, appointed secretary. Amos Walton, on behalf of the originators of the movement, was called on to explain the object of the meeting. He told what had been done the evening before, and handed to the secretary a list of names selected by the committee to add to their number, and said he would then ask the sense of the meeting on the choice made. The secretary read the following names.
C. R. Sipes; G. W. Cunningham; Rev. S. B. Fleming; A. J. Pyburn; H. O. Meigs; W. M. Sleeth; Jacob Hight; O. S. Rarick; J. P. Johnson; Ed Grady; Geo. Howard; D. Mowry; F. P. Schiffbauer; James Ridenour; Jas. L. Huey; W. D. Kreamer; T. H. McLaughlin; Dr. Jamison Vawter; Dr. H. D. Kellogg; O. P. Houghton; M. N. Sinnott.
Mr. Walton said he commended the object of the proposed organization because it gave our citizens the benefit of the counsel and services of two dozen of our most experienced citizens (He wished to exclude himself from self commendation.) who would be on the lookout for opportunities to turn to the public good. The plan as he sketched it was for those two dozen sagacious men to mature among themselves whatever movements would advance the public good, and then call a public meeting to whom their plans could be unfolded and action taken on them. On motion the list of names read by the secretary was approved.
Several other speakers followed in like strain.
Frank Austin preferred to have the organization placed on a broader basis. It had been called a board of trade by some speakers, and he wanted it made one in fact. He wanted membership thrown open to all eligible persons, and stated times of meeting. To create a fund for any sudden use he would have an initiation fee and an annual subscription.
But this proposition was generally opposed on the ground that it was taking the organization out of the hands of those who framed it. The meeting having nothing further before it, adjourned.
At a subsequent meeting of the executive committee, on the 29th, an organization was effected by electing A. J. Pyburn, president; H. D. Kellogg, vice president; M. N. Sinnott, secretary; N. T. Snyder, assistant secretary; W. D. Mowry, treasurer. It was also decided to increase the membership by admitting any fitting person on payment of $5 initiation fee. The following committees were appointed.
Finance Committee: A. A. Newman, H. O. Meigs, W. D. Kreamer.
Executive Committee: G. W. Cunningham, W. M. Sleeth, Amos Walton, H. D. Kellogg, N. T. Snyder, T. H. McLaughlin, W. D. Mowry, A. D. Prescott, F. P. Schiffbauer.
Arkansas City Republican, November 7, 1885.
Maj. Sleeth and N. T. Snyder visited Wellington Monday and Tuesday in the interest of the Ft. Smith & Wellington road. They met the president of the company, who assured them that the road would positively be built in the next 16 months. Messrs. Sleeth and Snyder were also informed that the railroad desired to come to Arkansas City; but since the defeat of their bonds in Walton Township, had had some notion of changing the route to go through Guelph Township. Surveyors are making this way from Ft. Smith through the territory. A survey will be run on the north side of the Arkansas first, and then on the south, in order to ascertain which is the most available route to Ft. Smith. In four townships in Sumner County bonds have already been voted and an election will occur in another on the 11th. The company asks for $4,000 per mile, from the county through which it passes. We should get this railroad connection. It is a trunk line, and since our citizens have ascertained that the road is a certainty, they will make a mighty strong pull to get it.
Arkansas City Republican, November 7, 1885.
T. G. Brown, of Cambridge, Ohio, is in the city visiting. He is a friend of Maj. Sleeth. Mr. Brown has been visiting in the Cherokee Nation since June 4, and says the Cherokees are opposed to opening Oklahoma. Mr. Brown is well posted on matters pertaining to the Indian Nation. He will remain in Arkansas City until next week.
Arkansas City Republican, November 14, 1885.
Yesterday morning a railroad meeting was held in Judge Pyburn’s office. Mayor Schiffbauer stated that the object of the meeting was to hear what Mr. Wood had to say in regard to the Ft. Smith, Wellington & Northwestern railway. The latter gentleman is the general manager of the Arkansas Valley route, and stated that he was in favor of building the road from Ft. Smith to Arkansas City, if bonds to the amount of $4,000 per mile were voted to aid in its construction. He also stated that Ingalls, Peters, and Perkins were in favor of this route and had agreed to aid in procuring the right of way through to Arkansas City. A motion was made by Maj. Sleeth that we work up the necessary aid. We want the road and there is no doubt that everything will be satisfactorily arranged.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
BOOMING BEAUMONT
VISITED BY SOME OF OUR CITIZENS TUESDAY.
An Excursion Over the K. C. & S. W., that Long Fought For Railroad.
Beaumont Found to be a Booming Metropolis (?),
Fast Growing in Opulence upon the Flint Hills of Butler County.
Early on last Tuesday morning, two omnibuses drew up to the Leland Hotel and took on board the following gentlemen, who had been invited by the managers of the K. C. & S. W., to take a pleasure trip over that road to the famous and booming Beaumont: Mayor Schiffbauer, Councilmen Hight, Davis, Thompson, Bailey, Dean, and Dunn, and their friends whom they invited, H. H. Perry, J. Frank Smith, J. H. Hilliard, Frank Thompson, and City Clerk Benedict; also, the railroad committee, consisting of A. A. Newman, N. T. Snyder, Major Sleeth, G. W. Cunningham, W. D. Mowry, and T. H. McLaughlin. Bro. Lockley, too, was among the honored ones, and was to chronicle the thrilling incidents of the trip, furnish intellectual food for the party, and report the impressive appearance, the "sights" and widely spread influence, of flourishing Beaumont. After a drive of about three miles, the gleeful party reached the end of the track, where over 200 railroad hands were busy at work, rapidly advancing the "iron bands" towards Arkansas City.
It was after 8 o’clock before they heard the distant whistling of the excursion train, towards which they at once started, and which they reached after a brisk walk of nearly a mile. Had it not been for Councilman Davis, who has only one natural leg to work with, they probably would have continued their journey on foot, and thus economized time. As it was, Mr. Davis was conveyed to the cars in a carriage to avoid the fatigue of walking. All having gotten on board, the train moved slowly up the track. They had a jolly, rollicking time.
Having arrived at Winfield, the passengers allowed the engine to rest a little, although it caused them much weariness to be delayed in a village of such few attractions when vivid pictures of enterprising Beaumont occupied their excited minds. Mr. Latham joined the party at Winfield, and when the train pulled out, the officers of the road suspended from the rear end of the last car a banner, bearing the inscription, "The town we left behind us." From that railroad station onto the end of the journey, the train swept over the track at a rapid rate, passing through Floral, Wilmot, Atlanta, and Latham. Beaumont (a French word meaning "the fashionable world") was reached at 11:30 a.m., and the party evacuated the cars and proceeded at once to the central part of the city. On either side, as they walked up main street, tall and magnificent buildings met their view, and the hearts of the rustic excursionists almost ceased to beat on account of the grandeur they beheld. Councilman Dunn had purchased a bran new hat that morning, and in trying to pass in under one of the lofty awnings, it was completely crushed. [N.B. This incident occurred before the drugstore was visited.] They found that the city consists of fourteen houses, which have been standing for 14 years, and the inhabitants number about 75. This is conclusive evidence that the town is still booming. When one of the natives was asked why he did not move to a better locality, he proudly pointed to the barren flint hills, and, with Kansas enthusiasm, maintained that Beaumont was the garden-spot of the world. After dinner, which was served in the spacious dining hall of Noah Herring, some of the party, for amusement, played at billiards and pigeon-hole. Bro. Lockley and Geo. Cunningham leveled down the flint hills and bombarded the town pitching horseshoes. Some of them went into one of the two drugstores in the place and consulted the "holy record" in order to procure some remedy for their ailments. The druggist showed them a full "soda pop" barrel, the greater portion of whose contents they consumed.
While in the drug store they made the following invoice of the stock it contained.
1 small stove: $2.00
1 old keg: $0.00
1 old box: $0.00
1 counter: $10.00
10 boxes of candy: $10.00
1 pail of tobacco: $4.00
2 boxes of nuts: $.50
1 barrel of whiskey: $8.00
TOTAL: $34.50
The excursionists returned to Arkansas City at about 9 o’clock p.m., full of joy and "soda water." There will be another excursion over this road soon and everybody here will then have a chance to see Beaumont.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
More Glad Tidings.
A special dispatch from Vinita, Indian Territory, in regard to the proceedings of the Cherokee National Council, to the Kansas City Times, of Tuesday, says:
"The railroad interests are not unrepresented. Governor Brockmeyer, agent of Jay Gould’s interests in the Indian Territory, has been present; Judge Allen, of Little Rock, is still on the field. The latter is interested in an act granting the right of way to the Kansas and Arkansas Valley railroad. The bill provides for a railway, telegraph, and telephone line, beginning near Arkansas City, down the Valley of the Arkansas River on the north to a point opposite Ft. Smith, with a branch at or near the Verdigris River, to the Kansas line near Coffeyville. The bill guarantees safety to the nation in the present tenure of its lands, and in its present form of government, as far as the company or their successors are concerned. The closing section provides that the railroad company shall accept the right of way and grant, upon the express condition that it will neither aid, advise, or assist in any effort looking or tending toward the changing or extinguishment of the present tenure of this nation in its land, and will occupy the right of way solely for railway purposes."
The REPUBLICAN would suggest that our railroad committee place itself in correspondence with Judge Allen and see if any assistance could be rendered him from the citizens in this community in regard to the matter. It is best to strike while the iron is hot. If Arkansas City gets that road, her future as the metropolis of the Arkansas Valley is fixed. The city getting the first railroad through the Territory will be the Kansas City of Kansas. In Kansas this road is known as the Ft. Smith & Wellington.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
The Mite Society of the U. P. Church met Tuesday evening at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict, Miss Emma Campbell doing the honors of the occasion. Lee Warren presided over the meeting, and Miss Lizzie Wilson acted as secretary. Many of the members were absent, but those who were there gave an excellent entertainment. The exercises consisted of declamations, select readings, and music. Those who were to read essays failed to perform. Prof. J. C. Bryan, who joined the society that evening, delivered a declamation which clearly made manifest his ability and excellence as an elocutionist. After the exercises were over, a good "social time" was indulged in. This society is instructive and entertaining, and is beneficial morally and intellectually.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
Thanksgiving services at the Gilstrap schoolhouse by Elders F. L. Walker and J. J. Prowse. A large number gathered with their baskets. After the religious services, tables were extemporized, and filled with choice provisions and delicacies, which the ladies know so well how to prepare. Ball playing among the boys, music by the singers, and sociability by all helped to make it an occasion to be remembered, and will naturally call for its repetition.
[Note: I believe the following was the first "Board of Trade"in Arkansas City.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
BOARD OF TRADE, OF ARKANSAS CITY.
The Constitution and By-Laws Adopted.
PREAMBLE.
Believing in the necessity of an association of citizens to give tone and energy to their efforts in securing the advantages which the position of the city offers to commerce, trade, and manufacturers, as well as to promote unity of action and to cultivate a more intimate and friendly acquaintance among the businessmen of the city, and to maintain a commercial exchange to promote uniformity in the customs and usages of merchants, and to inculcate principles of justice and equity in trade, and to facilitate the speedy adjustment of business dispute, to acquire and disseminate valuable commercial and economic information, and generally to secure to its numbers the benefits of co-operation in furtherance of their legitimate pursuits, and to use our influence, energies, and means for the furtherance of all enterprises that we believe will add to the prosperity of our city, and that these ends may be obtained by the establishment of a board of trade; we, the citizens of Arkansas City, do therefore agree to form such an association, and to be governed by the following constitution and code of by-laws.
CONSTITUTION.
OFFICERS.
ARTICLE 1. The officers of this Board of Trade shall consist of a president, two vice-presidents, ten directors, two secretaries, and a treasurer, who shall constitute its board of managers. They shall be chosen semi-annually, on the second Monday of January and July of each year. Their election shall be by ballot and they shall hold their office until their successors are duly elected and qualified.
ANNUAL AND SPECIAL MEETINGS.
ARTICLE 2. This association shall hold semi-annual meetings on the second Mondays of January and July at half past 7 o’clock, p.m. But special meetings may be called by order of a majority of the managers whenever they may deem it proper, and upon the written application of not less than ten members, the managers shall call said meeting at the time so requested.
MONTHLY MEETINGS OF MANAGERS.
ARTICLE 3. The managers shall meet steadily on the first Thursday or every month for the transaction of such business as may come before them and at the annual meeting shall present to the association a report of the proceedings of the past year.
COMMITTEE OF ARBITRATION.
ARTICLE 4. There shall be appointed semi-annually, by the managers, a committee of arbitration to consist of five members, two of whom may be rejected by the parties submitting the case and their places supplied by two other members to be appointed by the managers. The chairman of said committee shall be designated by the managers at the time of its appointment.
DUTIES OF COMMITTEE OF ARBITRATION.
ARTICLE 5. The duties of the committee of arbitration shall be to arbitrate and decide all disputed accounts and contracts and all controversies of a mercantile character which may be brought before them by the members, the parties having previously signed a bond for such an amount as the committee may require to abide by the decision of the same. The assistant secretary shall serve as clerk of the committee of arbitration. Any member who does not abide by, and comply with, the decision of the committee, shall be expelled from this association by order of the managers.
COMMITTEE ON RAILROADS AND STEAMBOATS.
ARTICLE 6. There shall also be appointed by the managers, at the regular semi-annual meetings, a standing committee on railroads and steamboats, to consist of five members, to whom shall be referred all matters relating to the transportation of merchandise and passengers to and from the city. They shall semi-annually and whenever they deem it expedient make reports to the managers or board all such subjects relating to the various railroad and steamboat lines connected with our city, with such recommendations for the action of the managers or board as they may deem advisable.
MANUFACTURERS COMMITTEE.
ARTICLE 7. There shall be appointed by the managers at their regular semi-annual meetings a standing committee on manufactories, whose duties it shall be to look to the interests and welfare of the city at all times, with the view of securing any and all manufacturing interests possible within our city, and to whom shall be referred any matters tending in that direction that may come to the knowledge of any member of the board, and said committee shall make out and submit at least once during their term of office, a full and detailed report of their labors, and submit the same to a regular meeting of the board.
DUTIES OF THE SECRETARIES.
ARTICLE 8. The secretary shall keep a list of all the members of the association and also an accurate report of the transactions of the managers at their monthly meetings and of the annual meeting of the members. The assistant secretary shall attend the sittings of the committee of arbitration, record their decisions, give notice to said committee when their services are required, render a copy of their verdict to the parties in the case, collect the fees of arbitration and all other moneys due the board, and pay the same over to the treasurer, read the minutes of the last meeting at the monthly meetings of the directors and annual meetings of the directors, and report the proceedings of the committee of arbitration at each meeting of the managers.
DUTIES OF TREASURER.
ARTICLE 9. The treasurer shall receive from the secretary all moneys belonging to the board, shall disburse the same upon order of the secretary when approved by the president or one of the vice-presidents, and shall report the receipts and expenditures at each monthly meeting of the managers and annual meetings of the association.
FUNDS AND ASSESSMENTS.
ARTICLE 10. The funds of the association shall at all times be subject to the control of managers.
ADMISSION OF MEMBERS.
ARTICLE 11. Any individual a resident of Arkansas City, Kansas, may become a member of this association on payment of five dollars in advance. Annual assessments, not exceeding $5.00, may be made and any refusal to pay such assessments for 60 days, upon written notice, shall be considered as a withdrawal from the association and the name of the party shall be stricken from the same.
BY-LAWS AND CONSTITUTION—HOW AMENDED.
ARTICLE 12. The by-laws and constitution of this association shall not be altered or amended, except at a special meeting called for that purpose by order of a majority of the managers, a written or printed notice of which meeting and the proposed alteration shall be transmitted by the secretary to each member of the association.
BY-LAWS.
ARTICLE 1. This association shall be known as the Board of Trade, of Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas.
ARTICLE 2. Its place of business shall be Arkansas City.
QUORUM.
ARTICLE 3. The president, or one of the vice-presidents, shall preside at all meetings of the board and also of the managers. A quorum of the board shall consist of not less than fifteen members and a quorum of the managers of not less than four directors together with the presiding officer, but in the absence of the president and all the vice-presidents, a president protem may be chosen.
SPECIAL MEETINGS.
ARTICLE 4. The president, or, in his absence, either of the vice-presidents, shall have the power, on any emergency, to call a special meeting of the board, but the business to be acted upon at such special meeting, shall be given in the notice of said meeting, and no other acted upon but by unanimous consent.
ADMISSION OF MEMBERS.
ARTICLE 5. Every person desirous of becoming a member of this association shall be proposed at a stated meeting; and if five or more negative votes shall appear against any candidate, he shall not be admitted as a member. Nor shall his name again appear before the board for membership until after the expiration of six months from the date of such rejection. On becoming a member, he shall sign the constitution and by-laws. No application to be acted upon less accompanied by a membership fee of five dollars.
REGULAR MEETINGS.
ARTICLE 6. The monthly meetings of the managers shall be held on the first Thursday of every month at the chambers of the board, at such hour as may be ordered by the president, written notice of which meeting shall be given to each member of the board.
EXPULSION OF MEMBERS.
ARTICLE 7. Any member who shall refuse or neglect to sign the constitution and by-laws of the association, may be expelled by the vote of three-fourths of the members present. But a notice of said motion shall be served on him, by the secretary, previous to said meeting. Any members failing to attend any regular meeting, having been notified of such meeting being called in writing by the secretary, may be expelled upon a majority vote of all members present. And any member failing to attend for three consecutive meetings of said board, after having been notified as required, shall be declared expelled from the association, Provided that sickness or wholly unavoidable causes of his absence, may work a reasonable excuse.
WITHDRAWAL OF MEMBERS.
ARTICLE 8. Any member who may wish to withdraw from the association shall give written notice thereof, together with his reasons therefor. But no member shall be permitted to withdraw, unless he shall have paid his yearly subscription.
FEES AND ASSESSMENTS.
ARTICLE 9. In addition to the admission fee of five dollars, an annual assessment, to be fixed by the managers, shall be collected by the secretary, and by him deposited with the treasurer.
OFFICERS.
A. J. PYBURN, President.
H. D. KELLOGG, 1st Vice-President.
WM. M. SLEETH, 2nd Vice-President.
M. N. SINNOTT, Secretary.
N. T. SNYDER, Assistant Secretary.
A. D. MOWRY, Treasurer.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
A. J. PYBURN, Chairman.
W. M. SLEETH.
H. D. KELLOGG.
T. H. McLAUGHLIN.
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER.
JAMES HILL.
C. S. BURROUGHS.
G. W. CUNNINGHAM.
AMOS WALTON.
N. T. SNYDER.
W. D. MOWRY.
A. D. PRESCOTT.
J. L. HUEY.
A. A. NEWMAN.
JAMES HILL HONORED BY BUSINESSMEN.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 5, 1885.
A BANQUET
Tendered the Hon. James Hill Thursday Evening By The
Businessmen of Arkansas City.
He Was Also Watched.
Last Thursday evening between the hours of 7 and 8 o’clock, the businessmen began to assemble at the Leland Hotel. When a fair representation had congregated, the crowd repaired to the Leland parlors, where everyone was treated to cigars. By the time the smokers had reduced their Havanas to ashes and indulged in a sociable and animated conversation, the feast was announced ready for devourment. At this moment 47 businessmen of Arkansas City showed an inclination to move towards the spacious dining halls of the Leland. The march was commenced, and when we entered, ye gods! What a sight was presented to the vision of 47 hungry businessmen of Arkansas City. A long table, the entire length of the dining room, was loaded to its uttermost capacity with refreshments for the inner man. Mine Host Perry undoubtedly acquired great fame as a caterer on this occasion. The invited guests filled the long rows of chairs on either side of the table, with Maj. W. M. Sleeth presiding and Jas. Hill occupying a seat at the opposite end of the table. Henry E. Asp and Contractor Moore were present and enjoyed the hospitality of the sturdy businessmen. It was an interesting study to the writer to note the faces present. Here and there among the assembly we recognized faces of the old land-marks. There were thirteen who came to the city on the sand hill in 1870—fifteen years ago. What a mammoth municipality has been constructed upon that small foundation which was laid fifteen years ago. All honor to that noble thirteen who were then present, for the many able efforts they have set forth to build up Arkansas City within the last fifteen years. We will call them the corner stones of the municipality. Then, again, in other places there were faces that have appeared upon the scene later, and by untiring zeal and hard work have aided very materially in the advancement of Arkansas City. They were here when the sunflower was rank in the streets, and the stalks grew so large that they were used for hitching posts, and the festival raccoon climbed up them and hid his carcass in the branches. They came later on, having heard of the many natural advantages here for making a city. From far-off climes they came, and they came to stay. Behold, what a city has grown! But to return to the banquet. In the language of the immortal poet, "The big, the small, the lean, the tall, ate a half ton each and all." And yet the half of it remains to be told. When the "task" of feasting was over, Maj. Sleeth arose and, in one of the most able and touching addresses we have ever heard, handed to Hon. James Hill a handsome gold watch and chain. It was a gift from those there assembled as a token of appreciation for the efforts Mr. Hill put forth in bringing the K. C. & S. W. Railroad here, and also, in behalf of what he has done for the prosperity of Arkansas City. Mr. Hill responded in a very neat speech. Henry E. Asp, being called for, arose and made an excellent little speech. He was followed by Judge A. J. Pyburn, who toasted in behalf of Arkansas City; and kind readers, let it suffice for us to say that the Judge did his subject justice. Judge McIntire, also, made a few interesting and telling remarks very suitable to the occasion. By motion it was unanimously declared that it was the will of those present to adjourn to the parlors once more and "schmoke."
As we have stated above, the banquet was given in honor of Hon. James Hill. Mr. Hill has done much for Arkansas City. We will not attempt to enumerate what he has done, for our readers have known the honorable gentleman many years more than the writer. But we believe he is deserving of the honor conferred upon him last Thursday evening. Long may he live to do good to our thriving little city.
Arkansas City Republican, December 5, 1885.
Maj. Sleeth went up to Topeka the latter part of the week on a business trip.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 19, 1885.
Jas. Lisle, of Belmont County, who has been visiting in the city for a couple of weeks past, returned to the Buckeye state Thursday. Mr. Lisle is a relative of Maj. Sleeth and John Love. He will most likely return and locate in this vicinity in the spring.
Arkansas City Republican, January 2, 1886.
Last week Maj. Sleeth went to Cleveland, Ohio, after his wife. Wednesday evening he came home again with Mrs. Sleeth. She is yet quite feeble in health.
Arkansas City Republican, January 16, 1886.
Death of Mrs. Mary Sleeth.
DIED. Mrs. Mary Sleeth, wife of W. M. Sleeth, died Tuesday morning at 7 o’clock. The deceased had been ailing for 18 months past from that dreaded disease of consumption. Several weeks ago her husband removed her to Cleveland, Ohio, for medical treatment, and it has been only about two weeks since her return home. She was very feeble then, but was better than when she went east. Only the latter part of last week was she taken to her bed, and her demise was more sudden than expected by her friends and relatives.
The funeral took place from the Presbyterian Church Wednesday, January 13, at 10 a.m., and the remains were interred in Riverview Cemetery. A few minutes before the hour, the relatives and a few of the more immediate friends assembled at the home of the departed and after a few comforting words of scripture read by Rev. J. O. Campbell and prayer by Rev. S. B. Fleming, the remains were taken to the church where a large concourse of sympathizing friends had assembled. Rev. J. O. Campbell, pastor of the deceased, conducted the services in the church. The order of exercises was as follows.
First, the singing of the 25th Psalm. [PAPER PRINTED IT.]
Memorial services, consisting of scripture reading, followed next.
Rev. S. B. Fleming then gave a short review of the life of the deceased. He said that as death was a solemn thing under any circumstances, the demise of our friend is peculiarly so. Not only are we assembled to pay our respects to the memory of a friend, but we are now paying tribute to the memory of the lady who has been here the longest of any of the present inhabitants, who have remained during all the years of trial and struggle through which this country has passed in its settlement. It had been the speaker’s privilege to know her for 12 years almost, and in all those years his admiration for her Christian integrity and sterling character has increased with the years. To her faith in God and earnest prayers and indefatigable labor, more than to any other human instrumentality, do we owe the founding and establishment of the U. P. Church of this city.
She united with the U. P. Church at Cambridge, Ohio, September 15, 1869, at the age of 22 years. She was born April 8, 1847, and was united in marriage to W. M. Sleeth, at Cambridge, Ohio, September 8, 1869. It was but a short time after the marriage till they moved to Emporia, Kansas. In 1870 they moved to Arkansas City. The issue of their marriage was five children, three of whom survive and two who have preceded the mother to the grave. Alvie, a bright little boy, died November 15, 1872, and Maggie, May 17, 1885. The three surviving children are Watt, a boy eight years; Pauline, aged five; and Eula, two and a half years.
After the memorial services, another Psalm was sung by the congregation.
[PAPER GAVE IT...I SKIPPED.]
Then followed the reading of Scriptures by Rev. Campbell and an appropriate prayer by Rev. N. S. Buckner, pastor of the M. E. Church. The signing of the following Psalm was followed by the sermon by Rev. J. O. Campbell from 11.Tho., 9th and 10th verses.
[I skipped this as well as a brief synopsis of the sermon. MAW]
After the sermon prayer was offered up by Rev. J. P. Witt, followed by the singing of Psalm 23.
At the conclusion of the singing of this Psalm, the whole congregation passed in a quiet and orderly way to take a last view of the face of the beloved dead.
A very touching scene in connection with this part of the service was the "leave taking" by the aged mother, scarcely able on account of her infirmities of age, to totter to the coffin.
The pall bearers were Drs. Reed and Shepard, T. V. McConn, A. C. Gould, H. P. Farrar, and Peter Pearson.
Arkansas City Republican, January 23, 1886.
Resolution.
Adopted by the Ladies’ Missionary Society of U. P. Church relative to the death of Mrs. Mary M. Sleeth.
WHEREAS, It has pleased our Heavenly Father to remove by death our lamented sister, Mrs. Mary M. Sleeth, a charter member of this church and long a faithful member of this society.
Resolved, That we humbly bow in submission to the will of Him who causes all things to work together for good to them who love Him.
That in her death this society mourns the loss of an earnest, energetic worker in its Master’s cause, a wise counselor, and a generous benefactor. . . .
Signed by Committee: Mrs. J. O. Campbell, Mrs. Dr. Reed, Miss Otto Maxwell.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.
[ILLUSTRATION OF CROWING ROOSTER...LOOKS LIKE!]
Almost $100,000
Worth of Property Change Ownership in Arkansas City
Since Monday, May 3, 1886.
Farms Adjoining the Townsite Selling for $150 per Acre.
Resident and Business Lots Selling to Capitalists
As Rapidly As a Price Can Be Fixed Upon them.
HOW WE BOOM!!
Since the bonds have been voted in the border townships for the Kansas State Line road, real estate has changed hands at an astonishing rate and at exceedingly good prices. Our town has been alive this week with capitalists seeking purchases.
The ball was started rolling Monday by the sale of a business lot to C. H. Shoenut, a capitalist from New York City. The lot was the property of Dr. Shepard and is located on Summit Street south of the post office. The consideration was $3,250.
Thursday D. G. Carder sold 60 acres of his farm adjoining the city limits, just across the canal, for $9,000 to J. H. McNair, of Halstead, Kansas. This was at the rate of $150 per acre. The consideration was paid in full. Until lately Mr. Carder never asked more than $80 per acre.
John Carder, the father of D. G. Carder, also sold his 67 acre plat of ground south of the flouring mills for $10,000. The purchasers were Jas. Hill, A. A. Newman, W. M. Sleeth, S. Matlack, T. H. McLaughlin, and G. N. Newman.
T. H. McLaughlin, A. A. Newman, G. N. Newman, Jas. Hill, and Maj. Sleeth purchased the Godfrey addition of 86 acres south of town. The consideration was $13,000 or $150 per acre.
Wm. Sleeth made the purchase of five acres of land belonging to Wm. Kirtley yesterday; the consideration was $2,500.
T. H. McLaughlin, Jas. Hill, Maj. Sleeth, S. Matlack, A. A. Newman, and G. N. Newman purchased the Huey property, northwest of the city, yesterday morning; the consideration was $10,500.
Messrs. Hill, Newman, McLaughlin, Matlack, Sleeth, and Newman paid $1,500 to L. W. Currier for his property.
Ephraim Carder transferred his 67 acres of land south of town yesterday to Hill, Newman, Sleeth, Matlack, McLaughlin, and Newman. The consideration was $10,000.
The above are actual trades made. We know of considerable property bargained for, but has not been consummated. This sudden boom in real estate is partly due to the carrying of the State Line propositions, and to other causes which we are not yet at liberty to make public. How we boom!
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.
The Jubilee.
Yesterday was a gala day in Arkansas City. Our friends from the eastern townships along the State Line road had been invited to come to our city and partake of the hospitality of our citizens, and assist in the celebration. It was a grand celebration, indeed. It surpassed anything we have ever had in commemoration of July 4.
Yesterday was a beautiful day. Bright and early our merchants and citizens began the decorations of their stores and homes. Everybody decorated. After one o’clock the visitors began arriving. About 3:30 the delegation from Cedar and Spring Creek Townships came in a body. They were met by the bands of the city and escorted along our main thoroughfares, and citizens falling in the procession to the Opera House, where a most sumptuous feast awaited them, which was prepared by the ladies of Arkansas City. After one and all had eaten heartily, they adjourned to the streets. At 7:30 a grand procession was formed, everybody falling in. After the procession came the pyrotechnic display and the firing of anvils and then our citizens and their guests repaired to the opera house to give vent to their enthusiastic feeling.
The vast assemblage was called to order at 8:30 by Maj. Sleeth and the following gentlemen responded to toasts.
Rev. J. O. Campbell, "Cowley County and her Railroads."
A. A. Newman, "State Line Railroad."
Rev. S. B. Fleming, "The Campaign."
F. P. Schiffbauer, "Arkansas City."
Arthur Smith, "Cedar Township."
A. L. Andrews, "Spring Creek Township."
Robt. Howe, "Maple City."
Dr. H. D. Cooper, "The long-haired Men from the Irish Flats."
Ike Harkleroad, "Silverdale Township."
Rev. W. W. Harris, "Creswell Township."
Dick Courtright, "Rock Creek."
Amos Walton, "Ignoramus."
Rev. J. P. Witt, "Winfield telegrams."
A. D. Prescott, "The Missouri Pacific R. R."
Col. Sumner, "That Spoon hook."
Mr. Neal, of Wellington, "The Ft. Smith, Wellington & Northwestern."
Wm. Jenkins, "The Waterloo of Cowley County."
Mr. Manahan, of Cedar, "Blessed are the Peacemakers."
James Hill made the final response, choosing his own subject.
At the close of the exercises, our guests were taken care of for the night. The most enthusiastic and friendly feeling exists in southern Cowley. Never before in our existence have we ever seen as many happy souls as there are now in the townships of Cedar, Spring Creek, Silverdale, and Creswell, and the city of Arkansas City. One cause has bound our hearts together and soon the link will be more welded by the bands of steel.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
H. P. Farrar and Maj. Sleeth sold their two business lots on west Fifth Avenue for $3,500 to E. J. Coleman, of Wichita. Mr. Coleman is a wealthy cattleman.
[MAPLE CITY TOWN COMPANY.]
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
A. L. Andrews and Dr. Cooper, of Maple City, were in the metropolis, Monday and Tuesday, for the purpose of organizing the Maple City Town Company. Tuesday night the organization was partly effected: Maj. W. M. Sleeth, Jas. Hill, and A. A. Newman were selected as directors of the town company from Arkansas City; A. L. Andrews, Robt. Howe, Philip Hoffman, G. A. Sutton, and Dr. Cooper, as directors from Maple City. The charter has been sent for and will be here in a few days.
The citizens of Maple City, since the carrying of the bonds for the State Line road, have put their heads together with more determination than ever, to increase the importance of their town. As it has been heretofore, Maple City has not had the prospects of obtaining a railroad. She now has, and the efforts of our friends over east to build up their home city will not go unrewarded.
At present the incorporated limits of Maple City contain only an area of six blocks. But surrounding A. L. Andrews owns 320 acres of as fine land as the sun ever shone upon. A portion of this will be platted and converted into town lots and placed upon the market. There is no reason why Maple City should not grow to be a city of from 1,500 to 2,500. She is surrounded by a most fertile farming country, as well as considerable grazing land. Her citizens are enterprising and patriotic; they will leave no stone unturned in the upbuilding of their town. They have a scope of country for 20 miles around to draw trade from. No town of importance is nearer than Arkansas City, and our citizens will lend our neighbors a helping hand. The REPUBLICAN rejoices with our friends in their boom.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 22, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Maj. Sleeth sold one resident lot to F. B. Hutchison for $350.
[ARKANSAS CITY REAL ESTATE.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 27, 1886.
A very old deed was filed yesterday conveying seven lots in Arkansas City from the Arkansas City Town Co., to T. B. Murdock, on the 28th day of April, 1873. The consideration of that deed was $40. The same lots were conveyed yesterday by T. B. Murdock to Frank J. Hess; consideration, $1,000. Over thirteen years have elapsed since the first deed was executed; and that length of time before its filing, but during that time his property got sand enough drifted upon its surface to make it bring the snug little sum of $1,000. T. B. Murdock is known throughout the state as Bent Murdock, of the El Dorado Republican. By the way, if the citizens of Arkansas City are all new, with an occasional "oldest inhabitant," it may be of interest to record the fact that H. B. Newman was president and W. M. Sleeth secretary of the aforesaid Town Company. Winfield Visitor.
The above is hardly a fair sample of the advance in real estate in Arkansas City. Three years ago when we arrived in the city, lots on North Summit street could be bought for $20 to $50 per lot. Today they are selling right along for $2,000 and $3,000. Three years ago the lots were sold as resident lots. Today they are bought and sold as business lots. Again, many farms, three years ago, could be bought at from $11 to $25 per acre. Today the same farms are selling for $100 and $300 per acre. These are facts which the records of Cowley County will bear us out in.
[Note: Winfield Visitor had "H. B. Newman." Correct Name: "A. A. Newman.]
DRAINING THE SLOUGH.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1886.
Recommendations of Mayor Schiffbauer to the Council.
At a special meeting of the city council, held on Monday evening, Aug. 30th, the following communication was read.
To the commission council of Arkansas City, Kansas.
GENTLEMEN: I find, upon examination of the records, that a meeting of the council held July 19th last, Acting Mayor Thompson appointed a committee consisting of Messrs. Wingate, Davis, and Thurston, to investigate and report on the feasibility of draining the slough west of the city. The report of this committee is herewith attached. I further find that on Aug. 2nd the city clerk was ordered to secure the right of way, and that at the same sitting the city engineer was ordered to advertise for bids to excavate a ditch for draining the slough, said ditch to be ten feet at the bottom with 2 to 1 slope. The bids to be opened and considered in ten days.
Now I submit that this system of draining said slough will entail a heavy expense, and become an onerous burden on the taxpayers of the city.
I also hand you herewith an approximate estimate of the cost of the plan proposed, and also the cost of the tile system of drainage, which will answer every required purpose; and this with an eye single to the health and pecuniary interest of the citizens and taxpayers of the city.
From the committee’s report you will see that Messrs. Hill, Newman, and Sleeth offer to give the right of way free of cost; but from the engineer’s diagram, you will find that the survey runs where the right of way will have to be purchased or condemned.
Why a right of way 100 feet wide and a ditch 10 feet wide at the bottom should be wanted for the purpose stated, I am at a loss to understand, when it is a conceded fact that a six inch drain would carry off all the water accumulating in said slough.
You are, therefore, asked to give this matter your candid and careful consideration, and let your action tend to the advantage of your constituents.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER.
ESTIMATED COST OF THE LARGE DITCH.
Cost of right of way: $1,080.00
Cost of excavating: $2,640.00
Cost of fencing: $432.29
Cost of bridge: $500.00
TOTAL: $4,652.29
To this will be added a yearly expense for the maintenance of the bridge and the erection of other bridges as the needs of the city require, and for their maintenance for all time.
ESTIMATED COST OF THE TILE SYSTEM.
2,436 feet of the 10 in. tiling at 20 cents: $487.20
Laying the same at 10 cents: $243.60
TOTAL: $730.80
The right of way for this would be freely given, as there would be no obstruction; no fencing would be required, no bridging would be necessary, and in this item alone a great saving would be secured to the taxpayers.
The matter was debated awhile by the council, and laid over till the next meeting.
[RUMPUS OVER TELEPHONE POLE.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 27, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
A TEMPEST.
Not in a Tea-pot, but in a Hole Made for the Reception of a Telephone Pole.
An exciting rumpus occurred in front of the First National bank this morning between the telephone gang, who are setting poles in the city, and F. W. Farrar and Calvin Dean. This morning they began a hole on the edge of the sidewalk in front of the bank. It was a narrow place in the walk and as this corner is one of the most prominent in the city, the pole would be a serious obstruction to pedestrians passing up and down the street. The telephone gang insisted on putting the pole in at that place. They refused to put it up in the gutter and sank the hole and were in the act of raising the pole when Messrs. Farrar and Dean appeared on the scene. They demanded that the pole be not put in the hole and Mr. Farrar jumped in to prevent it. Members of the gang attempted to pull him out and roll the end of the pole in. Both sides were getting madder than "wet hornets," and at the moment the telephone boys laid their hands on Mr. Farrar, he pulled a revolver and commanded them to remove them. After Fred had remained in the hole as long as he desired, he crawled out. Then the war commenced again. Mr. Dean attempted to remove the end of the pole from the sidewalk and about as fast as he would push it off, the telephone boys pushed it back. This was stopped by Policeman Johnnie Breene and Maj. Sleeth. The former proceeded to arrest the disputed hole; and the latter gained possession of the revolver and endeavored to cool the excited men by reasoning with them. No sooner had Messrs. Farrar and Dean stopped than the workmen again attempted to put the end of the pole in the hole, but Policeman Breene stopped them. For some time an excited crowd remained on the sidewalk discussing the matter. From what we ascertain the ordinance granting the franchise to the telephone company says the poles shall be erected on the outside of the sidewalk, and it further says that their erection shall create no obstruction to the passers-by. This was pointed out to the foreman of the gang and he was asked to observe it, but it appears he would not do so. Mr. Farrar acted unwisely in drawing a revolver and handling it in the manner he did. He was liable to have shot some uninterested and innocent person. But he evidently thought a seven-shot revolver and the possession of the hole were more effective than the slow resort to law. Then, again, if the employees of the company had wished to do right, they would have put other poles up until the question was settled. It is right our citizens should be protected from the unjust infringements by foreign companies and their employees. These workmen were entirely too aggressive for their own interests as well as the company’s. The question as to where the pole will stand will most likely be settled in the courts.
[Note: In Friday’s daily the following was printed: "We are told that the telephone line could have been run down the alley and supplied the city equally as well as it will by its erection on main street."]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
The Winfield Visitor made an outrageous mistake when it stated that Major Sleeth was the "hero" of the telephone pole tragedy in this city. The Major endeavored to make peace.
[ARKANSAS CITY LAND AND INVESTMENT COMPANY.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 25, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
The following article of incorporation was filed in the office of the secretary of state Friday. "The Arkansas City Land and Investment Company." Directors: Albert A. Newman, Wm. Sleeth, T. H. McLaughlin, and Jas. Hill, all of Arkansas City, Cowley County. Capital stock, $300,000.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 1, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Maj. Sleeth, of this city, served under Gen. Logan’s command during the war. Besides the Major there are several other old soldiers who did the same.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 29, 1887. From Saturday’s Daily.
Major Sleeth was appointed a delegate by the Business Men’s Club, at the meeting last evening, to go to Topeka Monday to attend the convention of delegates from cities of the second class. Mayor Schiffbauer has been delegated to go by the council.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 29, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Maj. Sleeth and Mayor Schiffbauer went to Topeka last evening to attend the meeting of the representatives of cities of the second class.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 29, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.
Major Sleeth and Mayor Schiffbauer have returned from their trip to Topeka.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 19, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
The Manufacturing Committee of the Business Men’s Club organized last evening. Maj. Sleeth was made chairman; Capt. C. G. Thompson vice-president; and F. W. Farrar, secretary. This committee has several manufacturing enterprises on hand which will develop shortly.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 26, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth returned from his trip back in Illinois.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 12, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
Major Sleeth and Rev. J. O. Campbell went to Sterling this afternoon to attend the U. P. Presbytery. They will return Wednesday.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 19, 1887.
THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK, NO. 3360.
WM. SLEETH, Pres.
CALVIN DEAN, Vice-Pres.
H. P. FARRAR, Cashier.
F. W. FARRAR, Asst. Cashier.
PAID UP CAPITAL: $125,000.
SURPLUS: $15,000.
UNDIVIDED PROFITS: $10,000.
[At this point my coverage of newspapers skips to a later period. MAW]
I do not know which "Miss Sleeth" the next item refers to...
Arkansas City Traveler, Monday, February 17, 1919.
The First Vesper Service.
The first of a series of vesper teas given at the Y. W. C. A. Sunday afternoon proved a very attractive affair. The Y. W. C. A. orchestra gave some brilliant numbers and the High School Glee club proved its right to the splendid reputation it has made for itself. It is under the direction of Miss Sleeth and the members include Miss Bertha Butler, Miss Vera Pickett, Miss Marguerite Brown, and Miss Ramona Abrams. Mrs. W. M. Gardner presided at the meeting, with Mrs. George Wheeler as hostess of the afternoon. Miss Amy Gordon Bruce made a most interesting talk. About 50 people were present at this service.
Arkansas City Daily Traveler, Wednesday, September 7, 1921.
Buys in Daisy Denton Shop
Mrs. Watt Sleeth is now a partner in the Daisy Denton Cantillon, located in the Osage hotel building, she having purchased an interest in this shop the first of the present month. Mrs. Sleeth is well known in this city and her friends will wish her success in the new business venture. Today the Daisy Denton is advertising the fall and winter opening, which will take place on Thursday and Friday of this week and they invite the people of this city to call and see them on those dates.
[PAULINE SLEETH]
Arkansas City Daily Traveler, Thursday, October 27, 1921.
Miss Pauline Sleeth, well known former teacher in the local high school, who is now making her home in Wichita, is in Arkansas City at the present visiting relatives and her many friends here.
[PAULINE AND EULA SLEETH.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Monday, March 20, 1922.
Recent reports in the Wichita papers give an account of the play given by the two societies of Friends University, the play being entitled, "Close to Nature," and which was put on under the supervision of Miss Pauline Sleeth, formerly of this city. The play was wonderfully portrayed, according to all reports, and the students taking part demonstrated the fact that they are being well trained in dramatic art. Miss Sleeth is at present an instructor in dramatics, in the city of Wichita; and her sister, Miss Eula Sleeth, is teaching in the high school in that city.
[INSTRUCTORS FOR SENIOR AND JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Thursday, August 17, 1922.
Instructors for the coming fall and winter term of school in the senior and junior high schools have been appointed and they are all expected to be on hand at the opening day, Monday, September 11.
The teaching staff for the Junior High School.
Olive Ramage, teacher of citizenship.
Mary Hume, English.
Pearl Lock, English.
Natilla Darby, Spanish and English.
Enola Miller, English and Dramatics.
Lora Ward, Mathematics.
Elta B. Fretz, Mathematics and English.
Ethelle Ireton, History.
Ida Holt, History.
Dorothy Cane, Science.
Willetta Dickson, Geography.
Ruth Moore, Sewing.
L. A. Chaplin, Wood work.
Chas. S. Huey, Manual training.
Lloyd Hakes, Printing.
H. G. Leet, Mechanical drawing.
Helen Neiman, Sewing.
Florence Harrison, Cooking.
Elma Stewart, Cooking.
Mary J. Skidmore, Latin.
Lurine Skidmore, Mathematics.
Marie Helm, Mathematics.
Edith J. Davis, Girls Physical Training.
Mason Wynne, Boys Physical Training.
Lillie Anderson, Music.
Gladys Cusac, Secretary.
E. A. Funk, Principal.
[As yet there are no teachers for penmanship and art, and study hall and library.]
The following are the teachers for the senior high school.
Edith Warnick, English and Public Speaking.
Florence Waddell, English.
Pauline Sleeth, English.
F. H. Tooney, American History, economics and debate.
Edna Gustafson, Physiology and history.
Gaye Iden, Chemistry and Physics.
Ernest Uhrlaub, Biology and coach of all athletics.
Euphrasia Kirk, Spanish.
Wm. McCort, Mathematics.
Phoebe Machin, Mathematics and normal training.
Francis Davidson, Librarian.
A. F. Kountz, Commerce.
Kathryn B. Fitch, Typewriting.
Mary J. Skidmore, Latin.
Chas. S. Huey, Manual training.
H. G. Leet, Mechanical drawing.
W. R. Sheff, Vocational agriculture.
Faye Orelup, Home economics.
Howard Feldman, Music supervisor.
Esther Reynolds, Secretary.
J. F. Gilliland, Principal.
C. E. St. John, Superintendent.
[CITY SCHOOL FACULTY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Monday, September 11, 1922.
Following is a complete list of the instructors for the city schools of Arkansas City, who will be employed here during the present fall and winter term and who began their duties this morning.
Senior High School Facility.
J. F. Gilliland, principal.
Edith Warnick, English and public speaking.
Florence Waddell, English.
Pauline Sleeth, English.
F. H. Tooney, history, economics, and debate.
Gaye Iden, chemistry and physics.
Ernest Uhrlaub, biology and athletics.
Euphrasia Kirk, Spanish.
Wm. McCort, mathematics.
Phoebe Machin, mathematics and normal training.
Frances Davidson, English and normal training.
Edna Johnson, librarian.
A. F. Koontz, commerce.
Kathryn B. Fitch, typewriting.
Carrie Reed, commerce.
Mary J. Skidmore, Latin.
C. S. Huey, woodwork.
H. G. Leet, mechanical drawing.
W. R. Sheff, vocational agriculture.
Faye Orelup, home economics.
Byron Fletcher, printing.
Howard Feldman, music.
Esther Reynolds, secretary
Junior High School Faculty.
E. A. Funk, principal.
Gladys Cusac, secretary.
Olive Ramage, citizenship and European history.
Ida Holt, United States history.
Estelle Ireton, American beginnings in Europe.
Lora Ward, mathematics.
Lurine Skidmore, mathematics.
Marie Helm, mathematics.
Elta B. Fretz, opportunity classes in English and mathematics.
Mary Hume, English.
Pearl Lock, English.
Enola Miller, English and dramatics.
Natilla Darby, Spanish and English.
Welletta Dickinson, geography.
Ada Ford, art and penmanship.
Mary J. Skidmore, Latin and debate.
Florence Harrison, director of domestic science.
Elma Stewart, cookery.
Ruth Moore, sewing.
Helen Neiman, sewing.
Dorothy Crane, general science.
Chas. S. Huey, director of shops.
Lawrence Chaplin, woodwork.
H. G. Leet, mechanical drawing.
Myrtle Johnson, librarian.
Mason Wynne, director of physical education for boys.
Edith J. Davis, director of physical education for girls.
Howard Feldman, director of music.
Lillie Anderson, music.
W. R. Sheff, director of vocational agriculture.
Albert Lamb, chief custodian.
Elementary Teachers.
Edith Mullett, Elizabeth Boyd, Emma Fisher, Lucile Hefley, Mrs. D. E. Smith, Edith Ellenberger, Gladys Perryman, Mary Abbott, Mae J. Peck, Della White, Callie Coyne, Jean Lintecum, Julia Farrar, Mateel Wynkoop, Ferne Reynolds, Helen Comegys, Helen McEvoy, Esther Henry, Maude Ramsey, Ruth Sloan, Marie Lillis, Ida Woolley, Delia Vawter, Emily Hyatt, Irma Suderman, Mildred Mayne, Florence Garringer, Stella Hall, Bella Smith, Alta Burkett, Marie Colburn, Anna Hight, Lucile Phillips, Clara Rothfus, Alice Mellor, Valeria Johnson, Gladys Ecroyd, Elea Christenson, Ruth Catlin, Glenn Sullivan, Lucile Roberts, Lois MacAllister, kindergarten assistant; Emily Main, school nurse.
[The above ends bits and pieces of newspapers I covered. MAW]
ADDITIONAL NOTES RELATIVE TO MAJOR SLEETH.
Second Marriage of Major Wm. M. Sleeth.
Mrs. Mary B. Sleeth died in 1886 and Major Sleeth married Miss Emma DeKnight September 5, 1893, at Chilocco Indian School.
Bank Failure in 1893.
During the panic of 1893 Major Sleeth’s bank (The First National Bank) failed, and its failure severely crippled him financially. Major Sleeth gave up everything he possessed to liquidate the debts of the bank which as a result paid 100 percent to all its depositors. After the failure of the First National Bank, Major Sleeth served as manager of the Water Power Company, and filled that position until his death.
Death of Major William M. Sleeth.
Major William Sleeth died Friday, September 28, 1906. He was 74 years old and died of Bright’s disease of the kidneys.
R. C. Howard wrote the following in the May 1, 1925, edition of the Arkansas City Traveler, which gives us a glimpse of the character of Major William E. Sleeth.
"Soon after I came to Arkansas City in 1884 we had the spring floods. My first remembrance of Major Wm. E. Sleeth was during these floods. The first time I ever saw him was on South Sixth Street, where I happened to go in the capacity of a reporter for the Arkansas City Republican to view the flood and report it. Major Sleeth was at the South Sixth street wooden bridge and was engaged in tieing the north end of it to the big tree at the side of the road on the north side of the river at Sixth street. He had the rope fastened to the end of the bridge and was tieing the rope around the tree to hold the bridge in place when I came along on a cow pony, which I had borrowed for the occasion. The Major was just finishing the job as I rode up. The water was out of the banks of the river and was rapidly getting higher all the time. I will say it was the action of Major Sleeth that saved the Sixth Street bridge at that time. He was doing the work by himself. No one else was in sight except myself. I relate this instance just to show that Major Sleeth had the good of Arkansas City at Heart in those early days. This was true of him until death claimed him."
Sleeth was a pioneer member of the United Presbyterian Church and was active in this church all his life. He held the office of county commissioner for two terms, and city and township treasurer for six years, and was a member of the city council in 1876.
He was one of the few men who stood for the gold standard. He was the only man in the community who claimed that the opening of the Cherokee strip would be an injury to Arkansas City and that it would take many years for the city to get over it.
Second Wife of Major William M. Sleeth.
Miss Emma DeKnight was born September 26, 1851, at Wilmington, Deleware. She was reared in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she started her teaching career. Both she and her sister, Miss Annie DeKnight taught in that city
In 1881 she and her sister, Miss Annie DeKnight, made a cross-continental trip by train from their home in Pitsburgh, to Sacramento, California. In that time, it was very unusual for unescorted women to travel. They traveled by 'emigrant train' where the passengers furnished their bedding and food, cooking it in a compartment furnished for that purpose by the railroad. They arrived at Sacramento, tired and grimy. They changed their clothes and tidied themselves, and then journeyed on to visit relatives in Napa, California.
For the return trip, they decided on a new adventure. They notified school officials in Pittsburgh that they would be late and journeyed home by water, crossing the Isthmus of Panama by land and thence by ship to New York, arriving home in October that year. The sisters continued teaching in Pittsburg until Miss Emma felt the call of the west and came to Chilocco, Indian Territory, to teach in 1884.
Chilocco Indian School opened in 1884, and Miss DeKnight was a member of the first faculity. After two months she informed the Superintendent that she decided to return to her home in the east. The students soon learned of her decision. One little Indian boy told her "Miss DeKnight, I hear you not stay here. Please for us, stay and teach Indian boy and girl the white man's ways." The appeal in the boys's eyes melted her determination to leave and she devoted her life to work. She remained at Chilocco till 1891.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1886.
The Democrat takes occasion to cavil with a statement made by this journal in regard to the enforced retirement of Miss DeKnight from her position of teacher in the Chilocco school. We said the lady "had been rotated out." Our capricious cotem declares she left of her own volition to accept a position in the Haskell school at Lawrence. The item was written without thought or design, but we distinctly remember that Miss DeKnight, in a conversation with this writer, impressed her great reluctance to leave the Chilocco school; she felt her special fitness to teach Indian children, and she regretted to leave her work half done. We gathered from her conversation that she had resigned to escape removal, and such is our belief now. By the bye, is it Superintendent Branham or our [? NEXT WORD ?] neighbor who is so extremely susceptible to newspaper criticism?
During her service with the Indian schools, she made many trips over the plains of Oklahoma in wagons to pick up students for the school.
In 1891, Miss DeKnight transferred to the Otoe Indian agency where Mr. and Mrs Andrew P. Hutchison were superintendent and matron. Their son, Walter Hutchison (who later became a Traveler reporter), became one of her pupils.
Miss DeKnight married Major Sleeth in 1893. She continued working for several years as matron of the small boys' home at Chilocco.
After Major Sleeth’s death, Mrs. Sleeth was appointed assistant Postmistress and served from February 1, 1907, to December 31, 1917.
In 1929, the two sisters, then Mrs. Sleeth, aged 76, and Mrs. Robinson, aged 78, made a tour which included Palestine. In Egypt, they rode camels to see the pyramids.
Mrs. Sleeth died Saturday, April 28, 1951, at the age of 99. She remained mentally alert till the end. She was survived by her step-children, Pauline and Watt Sleeth.
Children of Major Sleeth by First Wife.
Eula Sleeth was born in Arkansas City, married, and moved to Oklahoma City. She died in July 1948.
Watt Sleeth was the only son of Major Sleeth. He was born in Arkansas City on December 14, 1877. He was educated in the Arkansas City school system. After school, he engaged in the sand and gravel business. He also was a well known band leader of the area.
In 1911, Watt married May Gavin and they made their home in Arkansas City. He managed the Douglass, Kansas, gravel plant for eleven years. Seven years before his death, he was employed by the State Highway Department at the local port of entry.
In 1947, Watt Sleeth became ill and resigned from the State Highway Department. His illness continued for six years and he died July 20, 1953, in Arkansas City.
Miss Pauline B. Sleeth was the youngest child of Major Sleeth. She was born in Arkansas City April 5, 1880. Pauline and her sister, Eula, both graduated with the 1898 class of Arkansas City High School.
The laws of the time allowed graduates of High School to teach the primary grades. Miss Pauline started teaching that fall at the Sleeth school. She taught grades one through five in the same room. She taught two years and then went to the College of Emporia for two years. She returned to Arkansas City and taught for two years at Roosevelt school. She then returned to Emporia to study two more years in order to receive her bachelor of arts degree.
Pauline then taught in the Chase County High School at Cottonwood Falls. She left there to take her masters degree at the University of Kansas.
Miss Sleeth then taught in the public school system in Abilene, Kansas. One of her ninth grade students was Dwight D. Eisenhower. When the Eisenhower Museum was opened in Abilene in 1959, Miss Pauline was one of the invited guests who visited with the General after the ceremonies. She took a year’s leave of absence to do post-graduate work at the University of Chicago.
Miss Sleeth returned to her home town in 1916 to become head of the English Department. She started journalism and speech classes in 1916-1917 as extra curriculum activities. The interested students stayed after school to attend. She held this position until 1926 when she transferred to the Junior College.
She remained at the Junior College, where she taught English, speech, and teacher training until she retired in May of 1951.
Pauline Sleeth died Monday, July 27, 1964.