EZRA MEECH.

Walnut Township.

[Sheep Raiser.]

Walnut Township 1881: Ezra Meech, 65; spouse, C. H., 63.

Walnut Township 1881: E. F. Meech, 23; spouse, Camie, 21.

Walnut Township 1881: (Miss) Jessie Meech, 32.

Walnut Township 1882: Ezra Meech, 66; spouse, C. H., 64.

Walnut Township 1882: E. F. Meech, 23.

Walnut Township 1882: (Miss) Jessie Meech, 32.

FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.

Winfield Courier, May 8, 1879.

Mr. Ezra Meech has a fine Jersey bull and two heifers of the same stock which can be seen by visiting his premises in the north part of this city. They are pure blooded, of the very best pedigree and are of the best milking stock in the world. These cows, when properly cared for, will produce twenty pounds of butter each per week. The dam of the animal first mentioned produced in June, 1877, 2 lbs. and 14 oz. of butter per day.

Mr. Meech has also one hundred fine Paular Merino bucks and some two hundred ewes. We visited him last week in shearing time and saw clippings of fifteen to twenty-three pounds of fine wool per head. He proposes to cross these with the native sheep and thereby raise a hardy race of sheep, producing heavy fleeces of fine long staple wool.

Mr. Meech is a genuine Vermonter and understands the sheep business to perfection. His fine stock and large experience will prove of inestimable value to the farmers of this county.

Winfield Courier, May 15, 1879.

WINFIELD, KANS., May 12, 1879. D. A. MILLINGTON, ESQ.—Dear Sir: Having learned that several flocks of the sheep of this county are afflicted more or less with the scab, and believing that the disease is spread more by shearer’s clothes than by any other source, I would suggest that it would be wise in flock masters to adopt some precautionary measure, either that the shearers boil their shearing clothes in a decoction of strong tobacco or get new ones. Perhaps a word of warning from you might profit some of your readers.

Truly yours, EZRA MEECH.

Winfield Courier, June 12, 1879.

J. W. Thomas, of Tisdale, sheared this year fifty Paular merino bucks, from two to four years old, which averaged twenty-three pounds of wool to the head. Mr. Meech thinks this was the heaviest lot of fleeces ever sheared in America. The heaviest weighed 29½ pounds, the next 28½ pounds. Beat this who can.

[SHEEP CULTURE.]

Winfield Courier, June 26, 1879.

MILLINGTON GOES ON AND ON ABOUT SHEEP RAISING...PLAYING UP MR. EZRA MEECH, EXPERIENCED SHEEP RAISER. THEN HE PRINTS A LETTER FROM MEECH, WHICH CORRECTS STATEMENTS MADE BY MILLINGTON IN A PREVIOUS ARTICLE...ONLY PUTTING DOWN LETTER FROM MEECH!

D. A. MILLINGTON, Dear Sir: The article published in your last week’s paper in relation to the lot of bucks, shorn by Mr. J. W. Thomas of Tisdale, needs a little correction. It is stated that fifty Paular Marino bucks, from two to four years old, sheared an average of twenty-three pounds per head.

The number was forty-two instead of fifty. Their ages are two and three years, with the exception of four or five that are five years old, there being no four year olds in the lot.

The average weight of fleece as certified to by Mr. Thomas and W. H. H. McKinnon, who sheared and weighed them, was 22-8½ to 23 pounds per head. Weighing was not thought of until one half the flock was sheared, when the balance were accurately weighted, as shown, and the average taken from the twenty-one last shown. Mr. Thomas and McKinnon both state that no selection was made in weighing, with regard weight of fleece, but taken as they came to hand.

The four heaviest fleeces weighed in the aggregate 110¼ pounds as follows, 29¼, 18½, 27, and 25¼ pounds, but one fleece fell under 18 pounds; that weighed 15 pounds, taken from a male two years old.

These sheep are of the same blood and style of those yourself and Mr. Moffitt witnessed the shearing of, at my place in Winfield, early last month, of which you made mention of in your paper at the time. These sheep were (with a few exceptions) bought of Mr. Geo. Hammond of Middlebury, Vermont, son of the late Erwin Hammond, the great sheep breeder, and pure bred, direct from the celebrated Hammond flock, of which so much has been said and written in years past. The lot of sheep shown in your presence, I consider the better of the two, if any difference, they being a little better grown, and shall expect heavier fleeces from them next shearing.

We need in Kansas just what they have in New York—A state sheep show.

Truly yours, EZRA MEECH.

Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.

Mr. Ezra Meech passed through the town on Monday, on the road to the Wichita fair, with two heifers and a bull from his herd. They were of the famous “Jersey” breed.

Winfield Courier, September 25, 1879.

Mr. Meech returned from Wichita on Monday with his stock, having taken seven premiums on the lot. His Jersey bull took first premium for best bull of three years old and upward. The Jersey heifers both took premiums. He also took a Merino ram, three ewes, and a lamb, with which he took four premiums. This isn’t so bad for Cowley.

[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR.]

Winfield Courier, October 9, 1879.

Last Saturday ended the most successful fair ever held in Cowley County. The display, especially of blooded stock, was large, and shows that our people are awake to the advantage of well-bred over common scrub stock. We hope this may result in rooting out the old scrubby breeds that are so numerous at present.

The department allotted to Thoroughbred Cattle was well filled. The thoroughbred Devonshire bull, “Red Bird,” owned by Mr. James W. Hunt, attracted much attention, and was truly a fine animal. He carried several premiums, for best thoroughbred bull and sweepstakes. Mr. Ezra Meech’s herd of thoroughbred Jerseys were admired by all. They were the only ones of that breed on the ground, and were not entered.

SHEEP. Mr. Meech exhibited several of his Merinos, and carried off two premiums. He recently sold from his flock over twenty thoroughbred bucks, which will be scattered throughout the county.

[EZRA MEECH: SHEEP RAISING ON CHEAP CORN IN COWLEY COUNTY.]

Winfield Courier, October 30, 1879.

I have been engaged in the sheep business more than thirty years in Vermont, keeping from 1,000 to 5,000 much of the earlier part of the time, battling with the different diseases that sheep flesh is heir to, such as scab, foot-rot, grub-in-the-head, etc., with long winter, high-priced land, with a good shipping demand for hay, and grain high. Under these circum-stances I was led to investigate the matter of a location where there were few hindrances in the way of profit, and for that purpose traveled somewhat extensively over this Western country, visiting the flocks both summer and winter; those feeding on the buffalo grass, as well as those further east on the prairie grass; and am fully persuaded that this portion of Kansas offers a more inviting field for sheep husbandry than any other I have seen. Though the grazing season is much shorter here than further west, where sheep ordinarily winter with very little feed other than grass, yet we have an abundance of fine pasturage, high and rolling, in the immediate vicinity of some of the richest corn lands to be found anywhere: all the bottom lands on the streams, which are numerous, being of that kind. These facilities, with splendid natural shelter and plenty of good water, render this section peculiarly adapted to sheep raising. The few who are now engaged in the business here realize much larger profits than any flock owner claimed whom I met in my travels.

Most of them feed all the corn that the sheep will eat, beginning as soon as the grass fails in the fall and continuing until grass in spring; which requires about three bushels of corn to the sheep, and unquestionably adds to the weight of fleece in sufficient amount to pay the entire expense of winter feed above what the same sheep would shear if fed on buffalo grass without grain. This, coupled with the fact that the corn-fed wethers, as well as all the non-breeders of the flock, come out of the winter ready for the butcher, is what makes this place the place for sheep raising. Some of the sheep men turn their flocks into the corn about the 1st of August, after having sowed the field with rye; the sheep tread in the rye and trim up the corn, disposing of any weeds that may remain. After a short time the sheep are taken out until the rye gets a good start, when they are returned for winter, the stalks furnishing shelter and the rye green feed.

Each day sufficient corn is broken down, with a horse attached to an implement made for the purpose, to supply their wants. Others cut up their corn while the stalks are green and feed nothing but corn, which is said to give as good results as the other course, yet the best conditioned flock that I have seen was fed on green rye and standing corn, and I am satisfied that the product of wool and lambs from said flock will equal any in Kansas of the same number, the entire flock of 400 or more averaging over twelve pounds of wool per head, and averaging ninety-five lambs to the one hundred ewes. Some larger flocks clip from eight to twelve pounds per head.

I have 300 pure merino sheep, which I brought from Vermont during the past year, that are doing well on Kansas feed; one of which was seventeen years old last spring. Corn is generally sold here for 15 cents per bushel.

Ezra Meech, Cowley Co., Ks., in New York Tribune.

Jessie Meech, daughter...

[NEW YEAR RECEPTIONS.]

Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880..

Mrs. Dr. Emerson, corner Eleventh and Fuller Sts., assisted by Miss Jessie Meech.

Winfield Courier, June 17, 1880.

Last August Mr. Meech of this county sold to G. H. Wadsworth, of Pawnee County, twelve Merino Bucks out of his flock in this county. Mr. Wadsworth reports the weight of fleeces sheared recently from them as follows: Highest 45½ lbs.; lightest, 34½, average 41-6/10. This will do pretty well for this country. For further particulars, call on Mr. Ezra Meech. Mr. Meech proposes to visit Vermont this summer to get more of the same stock of which his flock is composed. These sheep do better and shear a great deal more wool in this state than in Vermont, the champion sheep and wool state.

[EZRA MEECH TELLS ABOUT SHEEP.]

Winfield Courier, July 15, 1880.

WINFIELD, June 18th, 1880.

Agreeable to request in the COURIER, I will give a little of my short experience in sheep and wool growing in Kansas.

I came to Cowley County in November 1878, bringing with me 60 pure bred Merino sheep from Vermont, having previously shipped two car loads from the same place; in all 309 head, 100 of which consisted of one and two year old bucks with a few exceptions that were four years old. Said bucks were bred by Mr. Hammond, of Middlebury, Vermont, and myself from stock purchased of him. Their first and second fleeces weighed in Vermont from 10 to 18 pounds. Sixty-eight of them came out by the first shipment in February 1878, and were sheared here in May following, producing from 15 to 19 pounds of wool per head. In 1879 they were clipped in May, a part of them the first week and a part ran until the last of the month. At this time there remained but 42 head of the first shipment, which were thin in flesh yet gave an average yield of 22½ pounds of wool per head, about 2½ pounds per head more than 30 head of like quality and age yielded that came out in November 1878, though the latter were in high condition. During the season of 1879 I sold from my flock of bucks (after reserving 15 of those that I considered the most valuable) all but my yearlings and a few older ones. The first sale was made on the 19th of August to Mr. G. H. Wadsworth, of Larned, Kansas, who had the choice of 20, after the yearlings and 15 reserved ones were taken out. He after getting them home sold 8 head, leaving 12 which he now has, and are the same bucks noticed in the COURIER of the 17th.

HE THEN GIVES COMPARISONS BETWEEN 1880 AND 1879..I SKIPPED.

The bucks reserved by myself sheared from 23 to 32 pounds.

Now there are two important questions concerning these sheep to be answered. First, why do they shear so much heavier than ordinary sheep? And how can the difference of more than 10 pounds per head be accounted for between the bucks reserved and those sold, the reserved being without question the best. As a whole, the first question is answered in the fact that the wool covers the entire body, many of them clipping more on the belly than some larger bucks shear on the whole body. Mr. Hammond, the gentleman to whose flock the pedigree of some of the best Merino sheep of the world may be traced, spent his long life in improving the Merino sheep, not only making two spears of wool grow where but one grew, but making wool grow where none grew before. He had in his mind a model sheep, and for a period of 50 years labored to produce it. In his start he purchased the best sheep then to be had, imported by Mr. Atwood, of Connecticut, after which he seldom, if ever, purchased a sheep, keeping the different families distinct, crossing from one to the other. A sheep showing a defect such as bare-belly or bare-face, etc., would be coupled with a sheep excelling in that point, thus the fault would be corrected. I have no doubt now that if Mr. Hammond had got in his mind a different model to breed to when he first set out; we might today have had a Merino sheep (buck) weighing 200 pounds and shearing 50 pounds. But he ignored large boned sheep altogether, and selected short legged, compact, strong constitutioned sheep.

As to the second question, much of it is explained in the treatment given the sheep. Mr. Wadsworth’s 20 bucks after reaching Larned had free access to a 40 acre field of green rye, with a stack of early cut millet and an overflowing water trough near at hand, which from the time he took them until winter wrought such a change in them that they would hardly be recognized as the same sheep, and were unfit for service until reduced by dry feed. He writes me that for quite awhile before shearing that if one laid down and got a little on his side, he could not get up. My experience with my thoroughbred ewes is about the same as regards weight of fleeces, increasing on Vermont weight in about the same proportion.

Aside from these Merino sheep of which I have written, I have between seventeen and eighteen hundred of different grades, mostly first and second crosses from the Mexican and Missouri sheep, excepting the lambs, which are from said grade ewes crossed with my best bucks. From 700 grade Mexican ewes, purchased last fall of Mr. Wright at Brown’s Grove, Kansas, we have raised over 600 lambs; from 220 grade Missouri ewes we have raised 175 lambs. The Mexican grade yielded an average of 4½ pounds of wool per head; the 200 grade Missouri clipped an average of 5½ per head.

The 700 grade Mexican ewes were wintered in three different lots and cared for by different men, there being two lots of 250 each and one of 200. One lot of 250 yielded an average of 5½ pounds, the other of the same number yielded but 4½, while the lot of 200 yielded a trifle less than 3½ pounds. The said sheep were all of one class and same age, and the difference in weight of fleeces can only be attributed to the difference in the care and feed given them.

The first consideration to be taken into account by those contemplating sheep husbandry is to make a good selection of sheep, then make them always comfortable with plenty of feed and dry quarters. Following this rule, the result will be satisfactory. EZRA MEECH.

Winfield Courier, August 5, 1880.

Telegram: Among the large sheep herders of Cowley County are: A. D. Crowell, Winfield, 4,000; George E. Raymond, Winfield, 1,700; Ezra Meech, Walnut, 1,200; S. C. Smith, Winfield, 1,000; Jake Stalter, Rock, 2,500; Mr. Parks, Grouse Creek, 2,440; Dr. Wright, Omnia, 2,400. Besides these there are a number of persons who have flocks, ranging from 100 to 1,000, which will bring the aggregate well up to 40,000.

Winfield Courier, September 16, 1880.

FOR SALE. 130 Merino rams purchased from some of the best breeders of Addison County, Vermont. Mostly registered stock, all pure bred and free from disease. Prices reasonable. Four miles east of Winfield. EZRA MEECH.

[THE WOOL GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION.]

Winfield Courier, January 13, 1881.

At an adjourned meeting of the Cowley Co. Wool Growers’ Association, held at Winfield January 8th, 1881, the following business was transacted.

Mr. Service being temporary chairman, secretary’s report of last meeting was read and adopted.

Names of members read and fourteen others added.

The following officers were elected by ballot for the ensuing year.

President: N. L. Rigby.

First Vice President: S. P. Strong.

Second Vice President: John Stalter.

Recording Secretary: A. D. Crowell.

Corresponding Secretary: S. C. Smith.

Treasurer: A. H. Doane.

Messrs. Smith, Silliman, and Chafey were appointed by the chair to act as a committee to select one from each township in the county to act as an executive committee.

Messrs. Stalter and Eastman were appointed by the chair to act as a committee to select and assign subjects to be discussed at the next regular meeting.

Motion was made and carried that Mr. Ezra Meech be appointed as a delegate to the State Wool Growers’ Association that is to be held at Topeka on the 18th inst., and Mr. Rigby as alternate.

Motion was made and carried that three and not more than five be appointed by the chair as a committee to visit the various flocks of sheep throughout the county and report regarding their condition, management, etc.

Messrs. Chafey, Meech, Smith, Eastman, and Crowell were so appointed.

After remarks by Mr. Lynn regarding the Eaton Tariff Bill now before Congress, a motion was made and carried that the corresponding secretary be instructed to request our representatives to Congress to favor said bill.

Motion was made and carried that the first clause of the constitution be so amended as to read, “Cowley County Wool Growers and Sheep Breeders’ Association.”

Motion was made and carried that the corresponding secretary be instructed to collect the petitions already distributed and present them through our Senator to the State Legislature.

Adjourned to meet at 10 o’clock, m., March 5th, 1881. A. D. CROWELL, Sec’y.

[THE MONITOR’S LOCALS.]

Winfield Courier, January 27, 1881.

Wm. Newton called our attention to the fact that we were considerably off on the wool clip of this last year for this and Sumner counties. That it is very much in excess of the figures that we gave. The truth of it is that Kansas editors are so often accused of exaggeration, that owing to our natural modesty, we would much prefer to be below the real figures than above, but we have no intention of letting our scruples do an injustice to one of our most important industries. Another reason for our error was the report of the Kansas state board of agriculture, which is wrong in its figures. The wool clip of Cowley County last year, instead of being thirty thousand pounds, was upwards of two hundred thousand, and Sumner, instead of fifteen, was upwards of a hundred thousand pounds. George E. Raymond alone had twelve thousand pounds, Mr. Meech ten thousand, Youle Brothers fifteen thousand, Yarbrough nine thousand, Parks, of Cambridge, about the same amount, and lots of fellows yet to hear from. The truth of it is, the sheep interest in Cowley has in three years sprung from nothing until it has reached such proportions that none of us can keep the run of it.

[RECAP: STATE WOOL-GROWERS CONVENTION, TOPEKA.]

Winfield Courier, February 3, 1881.

The wool growers of the state assembled in mass meeting at Odd Fellow’s Hall, Topeka, at 3 o’clock Tuesday afternoon, the 18^th. The minutes of the meeting held at Junction City on October 12th, 1880, and the constitution and by-laws were read, after which the meeting took a recess of ten minutes, in order that those present who wished might come forward and sign the constitution and become members of the association. Among those who signed the constitution and paid the required fee: Ezra Meech, Winfield. It was moved that a committee of three be appointed to revise the constitution and by-laws. The motion prevailed. They passed the following motion: That a committee of five be appointed by the chair to draft and present a memorial to the present legislature, setting forth the wants and wishes of the wool growers of the state.

AT THE EVENING SESSION BASIC DISCUSSION WAS ABOUT SCAB IN SHEEP. Mr. H. R. Matthews, Kansas City, who had a large herd of sheep in Edwards County, Kansas, explained that scabs was first caused by an insect, a parasite, and that tobacco juice would cure it. In the matter of petitioning the legislature to pass a law making owners of dogs liable for damages, and to prevent the spread of disease, he sustained the action of the meeting in urging such a law, stating that there had been brought into Kansas this year over 300,000 sheep, and that the demands for such a law would grow more urgent every year. Mr. G. H. Wadsworth, of Pawnee County, said he dipped his sheep for scab in two pints of arsenic, five pounds of sulphur, and seventy-five pounds of tobacco, and that it was the best cure he had found.

Mr. Meech, of Cowley County, had used “Ladd’s” dip, and didn’t think much of it. He stated that fine wooled sheep were more difficult to cure than coarse wooled ones.

Mr. Wellington, of Ellsworth County, said in Russell County a man dipped in arsenic water alone, so strong that it killed the scab and half the sheep. Mr. Kilbourne, of Osage County, believed in “Ladd’s” dip and that it was a very good cure for the disease.

Mr. Detwiller, of Pottawatomie County, thought the best way to cure scab in sheep was to have a law protecting themselves against bringing the scab in.

Winfield Courier, February 10, 1881.

Mr. and Mrs. Shrieves celebrated the 15th anniversary of their marriage by inviting their friends to attend their crystal wedding on Tuesday evening, February 8th. Accordingly a merry party filled the omnibuses and proceeded to their residence, one mile east of town, and spent an evening of unalloyed pleasure. Mrs. Shrieves, assisted by her sisters, Mrs. Cummings and Mrs. Wm. Shrieves, entertained their guests in a graceful and pleasant manner. Although invitation cards announced no presents, a few of the most intimate friends presented some choice little articles in remembrance of the occasion.

The following were present: Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Butler, Miss Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Kinne, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Spotswood, Dr. and Mrs. Van Doren, Mr. and Mrs. Earnest, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Rev. and Mrs. Hyden, Rev. and Mrs. Platter, Mrs. Houston, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson, Rev. and Mrs. Borchers, Mr. and Mrs. Meech, Mr. and Mrs. Millhouse, Mr. and Mrs. S. S. Linn, Mr. and Mrs. Snyder, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Mr. Hendricks, and John Roberts.

[THE PUBLIC SHEEP SHEARING.]

Winfield Courier, May 12, 1881.

Eight of our Cowley County flocks were represented. Messrs. Meech & Blue brought several thoroughbred two-year-old Merino bucks and three yearling lambs, a first cross between Merino buck and Colorado ewes. Two of these lambs were sheared and showed remarkable results. The first one weighed after shearing 51 pounds, and fleeced 9 pounds. The second weighed 48 pounds and fleeced 6¾. These lambs being from ewes which fleece at best from effect of the cross is apparent. One of their two-year-old bucks weighed after shearing 89 pounds and fleeced 24½, the second best, according to weight of carcass, sheared on the grounds. Another of their two-year-old Merino bucks weighed 82½ pounds, fleece 21½..

Mr. Meech showed second best heaviest fleece to weight of mutton. In this respect our Cowley County folks laid it over Butler nicely.

Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.

Ezra Meech, the great sheep man of this country, has concluded to do all his selling of bucks at once to save the bother of continual attention to the business. He has named October 12th as the day for the great sale for this year and persons wishing to improve their flocks had better be on hand.

Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.

Ezra Meech left Tuesday for Vermont on a visit to his old tramping grounds and will buy any sheep he finds there which will come up to the required standard for Cowley County.

E. F. Meech (Ezra Meech’s son)...

Winfield Courier, November 10, 1881.

The Grand Hunt proved a grand success. Several catastrophes are reported. Jake Nixon burst a barrel of his fine breech-loading gun, Tom Soward lost a “plunger,” and Deacon Harris got soaking wet. The score was a very fair one!

J. N. Harter: 830 A. D. Speed: 170

J. M. Keck: 1,000 B. F. Cox: 290

G. A. Rhodes: 975 C. C. Black: 90

T. H. Soward: 335 G. L. Eastman: 2,375

S. Burkhalter: 480 Dr. Davis: 450

Jacob Nixon: 80 E. Meech, Jr.: 285

Fred Whitney: 765 Q. A. Glass: 180

____ Chapman: 980 Deacon Harris: 500

Total: 5,445 Total: 4,360

The defeated party gave a big banquet at the Brettun Friday evening and the tired and hungry sportsmen fed their friends and told of the hair breadth escapes of “mud-hen” and turtle-dove. Skunks counted fifty, but none were brought in.

Ezra Meech...

Cowley County Courant, February 2, 1882.

The Walnut Township Republican convention met according to published notice at Frank Manny’s stone building. Ezra Meech was appointed chairman and F. S. Jennings, secretary. The following nominations were made: For Trustee: J. C. Roberts. For Clerk: T. A. Blanchard. Treasurer: Joel Mack. Justice of the Peace: S. E. Burger. Constables: Henry Perry, colored, and Jethro Cochran. Road Overseers: District No. 1, George Brown; District No. 2, Perry Hill.

S. S. Lynn wrote a letter that Meech paid attention to. As a result, a wool grower association was finally started in Cowley County. Lynn letter next...

Winfield Courier, February 9, 1882.

Sheep Association. MR. EDITOR: In the COURIER of week before last, you suggested that the wool growers of Cowley, Sedgwick, Sumner, and Butler counties organize a district wool growers association. The writer, for one, most heartily endorses that suggestion. The sheep interests of Cowley and adjoining counties is rapidly assuming giant proportions. We think we are safe in predicting that in less than three years Cowley County alone will contain 300,000 head of sheep representing a capital of near a million dollars. This being the fact, the most obtuse can see the necessity of some organization, not only for mutual improvement to stimulate us by a friendly competition to improve our herds, but to bring united influence to bear upon our “solons” at Topeka when next they meet, and thus secure some needed legislation to protect us from the ravages of worthless dogs. The writer of this has had all the experience he wants in the way of feeding ten cent dogs on a five dollar sheep and no way to secure any remuneration.

In order to give your readers some idea of the loss to wool growers from this cause, I will state that I have before me the reports of the secretary of state for the state of Ohio, with the statistics for the last twenty years, wherein I find that the average annual destruction of sheep by dogs in that state is over 40,000, valued at over $100,000, but the fund raised there by a tax on dogs is ample to compensate owners of sheep for all losses.

What say you, “sheep men,” shall we organize?

So soon as a sufficient number manifest a desire for such an organization, either through the press or by communicating with the writer, we will make arrangements for a meeting at some convenient point. S. S. LYNN.

Winfield Courier, March 23, 1882.

TO SHEEP MEN. EDS. COURIER: I have been expecting to see some response to the good suggestion of Mr. S. S. Lynn, published in the COURIER a few weeks ago, urging to the sheep men the importance of forming a district association embracing Cowley and the adjoining counties. I would now suggest that a meeting be called of the sheep breeders and wool growers’ association of Cowley County, already organized, at which meeting we can either re-organize upon the old basis or enlarge, in accordance with Mr. Lynn’s plan. Any association which will bring the sheep men together that they may discuss their different modes of breeding and handling their flocks, giving their experience and observations, would, if properly improved, be of much benefit to those engaged in the business, also to those contemplating engaging in it.

While this part of Kansas is particularly adapted to sheep husbandry, and a well managed flocks show as much net profit, if not much more, than any other branch of business connected with farming, it is a lamentable fact that at least one-half of those who engage in the business fail to make it a success and abandon it. The cause of these failures is apparent in many cases from the first start, to the eye of those who have had experience in sheep raising. Many make a serious mistake in selecting their sheep, getting a poor, low grade of Mexican sheep, which at best yields very light fleece and the wool of a grade that does not command a price within several cents per pound of the best wool. Some go to the extreme and select their sheep from some high fed flock, paying generally high prices; one lot of 500 (two or three crosses from the Missouri) selling in the fall of 1880 at $6 per head or $3,000 for the 500. Many other lots that have come under my observation during the past two years have sold from $5 to $8 per head and those common grade sheep. The price is the only difficulty with this class of sheep, provided they are kept up to their accustomed feed and care. Some that I know of have failed to give this class of sheep their accustomed care and feed and the result has been disastrous. While sheep men differ about which class of sheep it is best to buy, all I think who have owned the first named class will agree with me that they are not the sheep for Cowley County, while the selection of the sheep at the start, fixes the end in some cases. There is another cause of failure that is quite as common and as sure in its results: that is lack of feed. As a rule the sheep of this county do not get to exceed one-half the food their needs require to keep them in a thriving condition or a profitable one. It is not because sheep require less feed in Kansas than elsewhere, that renders sheep breeding and wool growing profitable, but because of the general cheapness of the feed. Many flocks of sheep are comfortably fed in the stock fields in the early part of the winter, but when they are approaching the lambing season, and they require the best care and feed of the year, they are in many cases fed on short allowance, ranging on prairie grass, with perhaps a half feed of corn. A flock of sheep that comes through poor, with numbers lessened by heavy losses, will raise but few lambs and give but little milk; consequently, the lambs are small, and if they survive the first winter (which is doubtful), they will be dwarfed for life.

Some think the scab is the greatest drawback to the sheep business, but it ought not to be as it is easily and surely cured. A bad start, short feed, scab or poor care, either if persisted in, will work ruin, and when all combined the end is near.

When I commenced, my object was to second Mr. Lynn’s suggestion in regard to organizing a Sheep Breeders & Wool Growers’ Association, but have run off the track, which you will please excuse, and tell the sheep men that the motto is, “Feed, or Fail.”

EZRA MEECH.

Winfield Courier, March 23, 1882.

Ezra Meech furnished some excellent points on sheep husbandry in an article on the first page this week. Mr. Meech is one of the best sheep men in the county.

Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.

Big Wool. Ezra Meech has brought us a sample of wool from a fleece of 60 pounds, a growth of 16 months on a French sheep belonging to Jewett of Vermont. The wool is fine, about equal to the merino. If that kind of sheep will produce 60 pounds in Vermont, we should expect 100 pounds from them in Kansas.

Cowley County Courant, April 13, 1882.

The Board of County Commissioners met in regular session Monday morning, and have been busy transacting the usual routine of business. All three members of the Board were in attendance. The personal property tax of Ezra Meech has been remitted in each township where he is taxed with sheep, except in Walnut.

Winfield Courier, April 20, 1882.

BOLTON TOWNSHIP, April 17, 1882. EDS. COURIER: Thousands of sheep are being driven to the state line and Indian Territory for the purpose of grazing them in the Nation. The Cherokees, who control all the lands west of the Arkansas River, north of the Cimarron River, and as far west as the Pan Handle of Texas, charge the sheep men 15 cents per head for grazing privilege, and cattle owners but 50 cents. The sheep men in consequence thereat are complaining, inasmuch as a cow or steer requires ten acres to one for a sheep. The Cherokee authorities don’t seem to heed the complaints and order them to pay or leave, and many will leave, for when 15 cents a head is added to 15 cents more of Kansas tax, it makes a considerable sum on from two to four thousand sheep. (About $600, or $1,200). Grass is abundant and affords good feed for all kinds of stock. It contains much nutriment this year, owing to the slow and steady growth before the late rains. Water is plentiful and the buffalo wallows and small streams are full. People living along the state line who refused to pay the Cherokee tax last year will be indicted for trespass and tried before the U. S. Court. A list of the offenders has been sent Hon. W. A. Phillips, their attorney, also a list to the Interior Department at Washington, and to the U. S. Marshal at Fort Smith. There are now, within a radius of ten miles of Arkansas City, over 25,000 sheep, which will give on an average four pounds of wool each, making 100,000 pounds of wool to be sold in this market. A little understanding exists among the large flock owners to hold for a fair price, or combine and ship to the best market. The late cold rains destroyed the chinch bugs, but had a chilling effect on the thousands of young lambs only a few days old, that were out on the prairies unprotected. Many will die in consequence thereof.

Let me say, while talking of sheep, the remarks from Father Meech a few weeks since were worth reading. Have him write again. C. M. SCOTT.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1882. Editorial Page.

TOBACCO AGAIN. In conversation with Mr. Ezra Meech, a sheep man of fifty years experience, he said “We might as well raise our own tobacco in Cowley County as not.” During this summer and fall fully 50,000 pounds will be used for dipping sheep to cure scab, at a cost of ten cents per pound, making $5,000 in money to be expended. With a little experience tobacco can be raised with corn with little more trouble than other crops. One acre contains 4,000 stalks, planted 3½ feet one way and 2 feet the other, and will yield one ton per acre worth $200. Then the suckers will yield equally as much, making a total of $400 per acre. The St. Louis Tobacco Association publishes a pamphlet that is issued free to all who desire it, that contains much valuable information, and those who want plants can secure them by leaving orders at the Post Office at 40 cents per 100, or $1 for 1,000.

Inasmuch as Mr. Meech has had fifty years of experience in sheep raising, we believe that his advice is worth heeding. He has befriended the flock owners many times with his articles in the Courier.

Winfield Courier, May 11, 1882.

The Traveler, quoting from one of the COURIER correspondents, says: “Inasmuch as Mr. Meech has had fifty years experience in sheep raising, we believe that his advice is worth heeding. He has befriended the flock owners many times with his articles in the COURIER.” Mr. Meech is perhaps one of the best posted men on sheep raising in Kansas.

Jessie Meech, daughter of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, May 18, 1882.

On last Thursday evening Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson entertained a large company of their young friends at their elegant residence, which they have been fitting up with new paper of a very beautiful and expensive pattern. Having the carpets up in the parlors, it was considered a good time to give a party and take the opportunity to indulge in a dance. The evening was just the one for a dancing party, for although “May was advancing,” it was very cool and pleasant, and several hours were spent in that exercise, after which an excellent repast consisting of ice cream, strawberries, and cakes was served, and although quite late the dancing continued some hours, and two o’clock had struck ere the last guest had lingeringly departed. No entertainments are more enjoyed by our young folks than those given by Mr. Robinson and his estimable wife. We append a list of those persons on this occasion: Misses Jackson, Roberts, Josie Bard, Jessie Meech, Florence Beeny, Jennie Hane, Kate Millington, Jessie Millington, Scothorn, Margie Wallis, Lizzie Wallis, Curry, Klingman, McCoy, Berkey; Mr. and Mrs. George Rhodes, Mr. and Mrs. Jo Harter, Mrs. and Dr. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Bahntge, Mr. and Mrs. George Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hunt; Messrs. W. A. Smith, C. C. Harris, Charles Fuller, Lou Zenor, James Lorton, Lovell Webb, Sam E. Davis, Eugene Wallis, C. H. Connell, Dr. Jones, Campbell, Ivan Robinson, W. C. Robinson.

Winfield Courier, August 3, 1882.

A number of young folks gathered at the residence of Ezra Meech in Walnut Township Tuesday evening and had a splendid time.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1882.

SALES OF SHEEP. The number of sheep that are offered for sale this fall is remarkable; and we can hardly account for the cause when we learn that the sheep offered are owned by men long enough in the business, as well as those of only a few year’s experience. The Courier advertises 6,150 head, owned as follows. Lands Bros., 4,000; Ezra Meech, 1,100; Conkright, 125; and Gregory, 925; besides others that have been sold. The TRAVELER has effected sales of about 5,000 in this vicinity; and now we see Caldwell offering 7,300. In the counties north of us many want to sell. In Ohio and the Eastern States they are sold for nearly half what they were held at a few years ago. The only reasons we can see for the desire to close out is, wool is quoted at only 39 and 40 cents in Boston, Mass., for the best qualities; and 22 to 23 cents for Territory wool. The fact has been demonstrated that to make wool growing pay in the West, the grade must be improved. The cause of no profit in Ohio and the East seems to be they cannot keep sufficient numbers. Here in Kansas where flocks of from one to five thousand are held together, wool growing will pay, even though wool is worth but twenty cents per pound.

Winfield Courier, September 21, 1882.

For Sale: 1,000 first class graded Merino sheep, and 100 pure bred Merino rams—mostly registered in the Vermont Sheep Breeders’ Association. Also four thoroughbred young Jersey bulls, from as good milking stock as there is in the United States. Four miles east of Winfield. EZRA MEECH.

Ezra F. Meech, son of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, November 9, 1882.

Sporting News. The Grand Annual hunt of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club took place last Thursday. The club met at the Brettun House Monday evening and elected J. N. Harter and Fred Whitney captains. Each hunter, with the advice of his captain, selected his route, and most of them went out to the field the evening before.

The following is the score. J. N. Harter, Capt., 2,700; Jas. Vance, 1,400; Frank Clark, 1,140; Frank Manny, 200; Jacob Nixon, 1,780; Ezra Meech, 620; Sol Burkhalter, 610; Dr. Davis, 310; C. Trump, 150; Ed. P. Greer, 160; E. C. Stewart, 120; G. L. Rinker, 360. TOTAL: 9,550.

Fred Whitney, Capt., 110; G. W. Prater, 290; J. S. Hunt, 1,130; C. C. Black, 1,070; Jas. McLain, 1,000; A. S. Davis, 100; H. Saunders, 130; Q. A. Glass, 240; A. D. Speed, 240; Dr. Emerson, 190; J. S. Mann, 100; J. B. Lynn, 000. TOTAL: 4,660.

The gold medal was won by Mr. Harter. The tin medal will be won by J. B. Lynn. On next Wednesday evening the nimrods will banquet at the Brettun, at the expense of the losing side. The score made by Mr. Harter has never been equaled in this county.

[ROCK CORRESPONDENT: “JIM.”]

Winfield Courier, December 14, 1882.

A Mr. Meech has about 1,000 head of sheep in the neighborhood feeding them.

The Misses Meech: (Caro and Jessie), daughters of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, January 4, 1883.

What Our People Did During the Holidays. The Misses Meech were with Mrs. Emerson on New Years day, where they received calls informally.

Meech and Andrew Dawson: lose sheep...

Winfield Courier, February 22, 1883.

A BIG DISASTER.

Five Hundred Sheep Drowned.

From Mr. Ezra Meech we learn of a very strange disaster which occurred on Rock Creek last Tuesday week. Mr. Andrew Dawson was crossing a flock of seven hundred sheep, over Rock Creek near his house. He had taken some wagons, removed the end gates from the beds, put them end to end and was running the sheep through. They had been taken trough to an island and the wagons were taken to the other side, placed in position, and the sheep started on across. About two hundred had got through when a roaring noise was heard and the men on the island looked up and saw a wall of ice and water about four feet high rushing down upon them. In an instant they were engulfed, with the five hundred sheep remaining on the island. The two men, Mr. Dawson and his son, succeeded in getting out, but the sheep were swept away and not a vestige of them has since been seen. Mr. Meech owned about three hundred of the sheep and his loss is upwards of a thousand dollars. Mr. Dawson owned the balance. The parties had no thought of danger until the ice wall rushed upon them. It was probably the breaking of an ice gorge farther up the creek.

A. H. Baker: Profits from raising sheep...

Winfield Courier, March 8, 1883.

Profits of Sheep Raising.

Mr. A. H. Baker, who has been living on the Brooks’ farm near Grouse Creek in this county for the last three years, has been handling a few sheep during that time with the following remarkable results.

1879 paid for 185 ewes and 95 wethers: $392.00

1880 paid for 447 stock sheep: $112.25

1881 paid Meech for 4 rams: $140.00

Total cost: $644.25

1880 sold 280 fleeces of wool for $300.00

1880 sold 65 wethers for $195.00

1880 sold 26 ewes for $52.00

1881 sold wool: $400.00

1881 sold 100 wethers for $300.00

1882 sold wool: $600.00

1882 sold 740 sheep: $2,600.00

Total sales: $4,447.00

Less cost: 644.25

NET PROFIT: $3,802.75

[COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]

Winfield Courier, April 19, 1883.

The Board remitted all tax on Ezra Meech’s sheep except in Walnut Township.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1883.

At a meeting of the Wool Growers’ Protective Union, or association, held at Winfield, on June 17th, I was requested, or rather instructed, to call the attention of the wool growers of Cowley County to the importance of united, universal, and prompt action to secure our just and much needed protection at the hands of our representatives in Congress. Horace Greeley remarked (when imprisoned for debt in the city of Paris) that he had always been opposed to imprisonment for debt, but never knew just why until now. Many of us have always been in favor of a tariff for protection against cheap labor and wool of other nations as well as for revenue, and like Horace Greeley we now know just why.

The change in the tariff made last winter, reducing the price of our wool from three to five cents per pound, brings the matter home to us. Selling wool at from 12 to 10 cents per pound is not agreeable, to say the least, and I may add unnecessary. There is no question but the wool growers of the United States have it in their power to secure just and discriminating protection at the hands of the next Congress and this can only be secured through a united and harmonious organization, having but the one object in view, and I would most respectfully urge upon every wool grower in Cowley County, and all interested in wool growing, to attend the meeting to be held at the Courthouse in Winfield on the 14th day of July, at which time a committee appointed at the meeting held June 17, will present a constitution and by-laws for the consideration of the wool men who may attend, and I trust none will be absent. EZRA MEECH.

[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR.]

Winfield Courier, October 4, 1883.

JERSEYS.

Best bull 1 year and under 2, E. Meech, Walnut, 1st premium. Also, 2nd.

Best heifer calf, E. Meech, Walnut, 1st premium; J. O. Taylor, of same place, 2nd.

Ezra F. Meech, son of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, November 8, 1883.

The grand annual hunt of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club came off last Thursday. The captains were Jas. H. Vance and Jas. McLain. There were twelve hunters on each side, but several could not go, leaving ten on Capt. Vance’s side and only eight on Capt. McLain’s. The count was as follows: Jas. Vance, Captain: 1,520; Frank Clark: 1,910; J. S. Hunt: 1,835; Kyle McClung: 1,130; J. Cochran: 1,855; W. P. Beaumont: 1,010; Frank Lockwood: 370; A. T. Spotswood: 205; A. S. Davis: 1,125. TOTAL FOR VANCE TEAM: 10,970.

Jas. McLain, Captain: 1,230; J. N. Harter: 1,120; C. C. Black: 715; G. W. Prater: 970; Fred Whiting: 1,245; Ezra Meech: 3,420; Judge E. S. Torrance: 865; Wilson Foster: 1,380. TOTAL McLAIN TEAM: 10,945.

Capt. Vance’s side having made 25 points the most was declared the victor.

The annual Banquet and presentation of the medals was held at the Brettun Saturday evening. It was an elegant affair and one of the most enjoyable of the season. In a neat and appropriate speech, Mr. C. C. Black presented the gold medal, awarded for the highest score, to Mr. Ezra Meech, who responded to the toast “How did you catch ’em?” with a full description of his days report and the methods he so successfully employed in bagging the festive little “cotton tail.” Next came the presentation of the tin medal, by M. G. Troup, which was done in that gentleman’s happiest vein. The recipient, A. T. Spotswood, responded in a short speech. After other toasts the company adjourned for business at which it was decided to hunt again with the same sides, on November 22nd. This is the third annual hunt of the club, and has been more successful than its predecessors.

Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, November 22, 1883.

The Jersey cow which Mr. Meech sold to a Canada gentleman last week for $500 was a full sister to “Stoke Pogis 3rd,” who sired “Mary Ann 3rd,” which cow made 209 pounds of butter in sixty days.

Winfield Courier, November 22, 1883.

Mr. Ezra Meech made a splendid stock sale last week. He sold on an order from Canada a thoroughbred Jersey cow and two calves for eight hundred dollars, the purchasers paying the freight clear to Canada. Mr. Meech’s Jerseys are the finest strain of that breed of stock in the United States. Col. McMullen also owns some members of this famous family.

Jessie and Caro Meech, daughters of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, November 29, 1883.

The most delightful entertainment of the season was given by Dr. & Mrs. Geo. Emerson on Tuesday evening of this week. The guests present were: Mr. & Mrs. Geo. Ordway, Mr. & Mrs. J. Wade McDonald, Mr. & Mrs. E. A. Baird, Mr. & Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. & Mrs.

M. L. Robinson, Mr. & Mrs. A. T. Spotswood, Mr. & Mrs. G. H. Allen, Mr. & Mrs. A. H. Doane, Mr. & Mrs. C. F. Bahntge, Mr. & Mrs. W. J. Wilson, Mr. & Mrs. D. A. Millington; Mrs. F. Mendell of Texas, Mrs. H. P. Mansfield of Burden, Mrs. Perkins, late of Australia, Mrs. Frank Barclay, Mrs. C. L. Harter; Misses Lizzie Wallis, Margie Wallis, Jennie Hane, Florence Beeny, Nettie R. McCoy, Huldah Goldsmith, Clara Brass, Sadie French, Julia Smith, Jessie Meech, Caro Meech, Jesse Millington; Messrs. M. J. O’Meara, D. L. Kretsinger, W. H. Smith, W. A. Smith of Wichita, E. H. Nixon, L. D. Zenor, W. C. Robinson, Geo. W. Robinson, E. Wallis, G. Headrick, F. F. Leland, H. Bahntge, E. Meech, Jr. It was an exceedingly lively party and the host and hostess had omitted nothing which could add to the general enjoyment. Mr. and Mrs. Emerson stand at the head of the list of those in Winfield who know how to entertain their friends.

Caro Meech, teacher, daughter of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, May 15, 1884.

The Opera House was crowded on last Thursday evening for the annual Commencement exercises of the Winfield High School. At the proper hour the curtain rose, disclosing a class of six young ladies, all beautifully robed in white, and countenances aglow with expectation, with their teachers, Prof. A. Gridley and Miss Caro Meech, at the head of the class.

Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, May 29, 1884.

H. G. Fuller has gone into the cow business on a small scale, having bought one of Mr. Meech’s fine Jerseys. These Jerseys take the lead as milkers.

Jessie Meech, daughter of Ezra Meech...

[VISIT TO BURDEN.]

Winfield Courier, June 12, 1884.

We noticed several Winfield ladies there, who were in attendance upon a convention of the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Societies of Southwest Kansas conference, among whom were Mrs. S. S. Holloway, Mrs. Gridley, Mrs. John C. Curry, and Misses Jessie Meech and Ida Byers.

Winfield Courier, September 18, 1884.

Mr. Ezra Meech came in from a two weeks visit in Norwood, Michigan, Sunday. Mrs. Meech and daughters are still in the east and Mr. Meech, with Ezra, Jr., will “batchit” for some time yet.

Winfield Courier, October 23, 1884.

Strayed. From a pasture 4 miles east of Winfield the thirteenth inst., a grade Jersey heifer calf 8 months old. Any information will be suitably rewarded. EZRA MEECH, Winfield, Kansas.

E. F. Meech, son of Ezra Meech...

Winfield Courier, November 13, 1884.

The annual hunt of the Sportsmen’s Club came off last Friday. The annual banquet came off Monday evening at the Brettun, and was a very pleasant affair. The banquet was presided over by Mr. C. C. Black, president of the club. The gold medal was presented to Mr. Ezra Meech, the winner, by Mr. G. H. Allen in a neat speech. This was followed by the presentation of the tin medal to Ed. P. Greer, by Judge T. H. Soward. Mr. Soward’s speech was a happy effort and was received by rounds of applause. After a reply from the recipient, the club resolved itself into an experience meeting, and the various haps and mishaps were recited by the participants. About a thousand rabbits, more or less, were exterminated by the hunters. But very few quail were killed, the count being purposely placed very low. These annual hunts and banquets are becoming more popular year by year.

It appears that E. F. Meech, son, was the only Meech to attend next event...

Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 8, 1885.

On Wednesday evening of last week, Mayor Emerson and lady threw their pleasant home open for the entertainment of invited guests, it being the tenth anniversary of their wedding. Among those present were: Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Spotswood, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. O. Branham, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Miller, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Harter, Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Webb, Mr. and Mrs. W. L. Webb, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ordway, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Schuler, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Williams, Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mrs. J. E. Saint, Mrs. Perkins; Misses Sadie French, Margie Wallis, Jessie Millington, Josie Baird, Nettie McCoy, Anna McCoy, Mattie Harrison of Hannibal, Mo.; Messrs. E. H. Nixon, R. B. Rudolf, M. H. Ewart, M. J. O’Meara, and Ezra Meech. Each bore a token of respect and good will. Under the royal entertainment of Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, all passed the evening most enjoyably and departed with the old year, heartily wishing the “bride and groom” many anniversaries of their wedding, down to the one of diamonds, with its silver tresses.

Ezra Meech...

[COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]

Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 15, 1885.

Personal property tax of Ezra Meech, Dexter township, valuation $1221, sheep, was remitted.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 11, 1885.

Mr. E. Meech returned Sunday from a month in N. Y.

Ezra F. Meech, son, severely injured in accident...

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.

Dr. Emerson and O. M. Seward went out Friday and spent the night with Ezra Meech. The Doctor says Ez. has been entirely unconscious ever since the accident. He only exhibits restlessness occasionally. The Doctor says the blow that caused the concussion was received on and just above the temple. His long unconsciousness, without a rally, makes his recovery very improbable. His father, in answer to a telegram, said he would start from Michigan immediately, and will probably arrive Sunday. Of course, it is impossible to remove Ez. from Dr. Emerson’s ranch, but he is receiving all the attention the people of that neighborhood and friends from here can give.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.

Ezra Meech, Jr., met with a very bad accident yesterday morning at Dr. Emerson’s ranch on Silver creek. He intended to start to Michigan Friday, to a family reunion, taking along a number of horses. He was rounding the animals up in a rough pasture, assisted by a small boy, both mounted. Ez. sent the boy around a steeply inclined mound, while he went straight over. Both were at full tilt and collided at the other side, knocking both horses down and throwing Ez. to the ground on his head, it is supposed. He was unconscious, and the boy brought in assistance, had Ez. taken to a house on a stretcher, and a physician from Burden summoned. Dr. Emerson was also sent for. He went out Thursday afternoon and returned late last night, reporting Ez. still unconscious and almost motionless. The Doctor thinks it either very serious brain concussion or nerve paralysis, more probably the latter. No scars were visible. The case is undoubtedly very dangerous. Dr. Emerson went out again Friday.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.

Ezra Meech was brought in from Silver Creek early Monday and is now receiving every attention at the home of Dr. Emerson. He was brought in on a cot in a spring wagon. Yesterday afternoon he began to exhibit consciousness and can now recognize everyone, though his mind wanders and has no definite hold on anything. He seems to know nothing of his accident, and imagines it is Thursday and he must rush to get the horses on the car for a start for Michigan. Dr. Emerson says he will recover, but it will likely be sometime before his mind entirely gets its equilibrium. Miss Jessie Meech, his sister, arrived today. The father was sick and unable to come.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 13, 1885.

Very little change is noticed in Ezra Meech’s condition since he was brought in from Dr. Emerson’s ranch last Saturday. His injury is much worse than expected when he first returned to consciousness, and his friends greatly fear the injury to his mind will be permanent. His left side is paralyzed—he only being able to move his arm a little. While he recognizes everyone, his mind won’t stay for a moment on one subject. The Doctor, however, sees some change for the better. In the pleasant home of Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, with his sister, Miss Jessie, and kind friends at his side, he receives every attention. The accident broke not a bone—scarcely left an outward scar. The jar did it.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.

Ezra Meech has almost recovered from the terrible accident that made two weeks blank in his memory. His mind is almost entirely restored and he sits up and is rapidly gaining in strength. A few weeks more will bring him out all right.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.

Ezra Meech and sister, Miss Jessie, left Wednesday for Michigan, Ezra having almost entirely recovered from the terrible accident that made a week in his life a blank. His friends rejoice at his recovery, and regret the family’s permanent departure.