Winfield Courier, February 18, 1875.

The Traveler says that Samuel Darrah, W. J. Keffer, and J. G. Titus start down the Arkansas in a flatboat with J. C. Lillie, managing Editor.

Winfield Courier, February 25, 1875.

Samuel Darrah and J. G. Titus of this place, and Mr. Keffer of Pleasant Valley, started last Monday down the Arkansas River in a flat-boat bound for Fort Smith. We wish those hardy sailors a pleasant voyage.

Winfield Courier, March 18, 1875.

Sam Darrah, J. G. Titus, and Jake Keffer, the three hardy mariners who left Arkansas City a few weeks ago to test the navigability of the Arkansas River, returned home last Saturday. They report the navigation of the river impracticable for boats larger than the Great Eastern. The party floated down in a skiff as far as Fort Gibson, where they bought ponies to bring them back.

Winfield Courier, April 29, 1875.

Titus and Darrah, of Winfield, who went down the Arkansas River to Fort Gibson in a flat boat in February last, report the route practicable, and intend to ship grain that way this fall. Give us a rest. [Newspaper source not given.]

Winfield Courier, July 29, 1875.

By request of Mr. Berkey, of Arkansas City, on the 14th of this month we wrote Mr. Enoch Hoag, inquiring whether it would be any violation to existing government regulations of Indian Affairs to sell flour or wheat at the intermediate points along the Arkansas River in the territory should flat boating prove successful down said river. The following letter is an answer to ours.

T. A. WILKINSON, Supt. Pub. Instruction, Winfield, Kansas.

I am in receipt of the communication of 14th instant, inquiring whether the sale of wheat and flour along the Arkansas River, in the Indian Territory at points where the demand and price would be sufficient to induce such sale, would be any violation of Government regulations, etc.

In reply I have to call thy attention to the 2nd section of the "Intercourse Law," the first clause of which I quote, to-wit:

"That no person shall be permitted to trade with any of the Indians (in the Indian country), without a license therefor from a Superintendent of Indian Affairs, or Indian Agent, or Sub Agent," etc.

Section 4 says: "And be it further enacted, That any person, other than an Indian, who shall attempt to reside in the Indian country as a trader, or to introduce goods, or to trade therein without such license, shall forfeit all merchandise offered for sale to the Indians or found in his possession, and shall moreover forfeit and pay the sum of five hundred dollars."

I am of the opinion that the traffic proposed would be a violation of the foregoing, and perhaps other clauses of the "Intercourse Law." Very Respectfully, ENOCH HOAG, Supt.

Winfield Courier, September 2, 1875.

Bowen & Berkey, of the flat-boat expedition, have returned to the City. They report the "Arkansaw" navigable 80 miles, as far as they went, and now say if Arkansas City will raise them $1,000 they will put a steamboat on the river in running order. They stopped their boat at the Pawnee Agency, as there they learned that flour in Little Rock, Arkansas, was selling at $2 per cwt. and wheat at 60 cents per bushel. They will probably attempt to turn the river "end for end," and ship wheat and flour down here next.

Excerpt...

[ARKANSAS CITY TRAVELER ITEMS.]

Winfield Courier, September 9, 1875.

Word was brought from the flat boat last Sunday, which is now near the Pawnee Agency, almost one hundred miles from this place, by the river. They report no less than three feet of water in the channel of the river, and are fully satisfied that a small steam tug could be run between Little Rock and this place. They have experienced considerable difficulty in managing the boat so as to keep it in the channel, but claim they can make a successful voyage.

Winfield Courier, January 13, 1876.

The Wellington Press claims that the Arkansas River is navigable for light draft steam boats as far up as Oxford. Mr. Aldridge, a river pilot of twenty-five years experience, offers to bring a boat of one hundred tons capacity, from Fort Smith to Oxford. Said steamer not to cost over four thousand dollars. He wants a guarantee of two thousand dollars and two hundred dollars in hand.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 9, 1876.

We have received another letter from J. G. Titus, now at Muskogee, Indian Territory, asking when the Parker Brothers' boat would be up the river. He has a lot of baled hay he intends shipping to Fort Smith.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 16, 1876.

The following letter was received by E. B. Kager from a gentleman in Wisconsin, of some experience in boat building.

I noticed in the papers you sent me a communication signed "P. H. Aldridge," relative to the navigation of the Arkansas River above Ft. Smith. This is a subject in which I have taken a great deal of interest. I have for some years thought of starting a light draft steamer, and purchased a couple of engines two years ago for that purpose, and have been negotiating for some time for the building of the boat.

Six or seven years ago I was up the Arkansas River to Van Buren, and paid close attention to that stream, and also to the White River, and was told that the Arkansas River was not navigable above that place, as the river was closed by flood wood, which could not be removed.

Now, if what Aldridge said is correct, I think there is a fair chance for someone to open up a trade. How far is Oxford from your place and how near your place could I run with a boat drawing not over twenty inches of water? I could run up to Van Buren without difficulty, if I could get from there, up.

Please write me what you can ascertain in relation to the matter, what the river distance will be as near as you can, and what inducements, if any, are held out. I can build a boat here much cheaper than it can be built in your country. C. R. GODFREY.

Excerpt reflecting steamboat navigation began in 1795...

Winfield Courier, February 17, 1876.

Another historical picture is "Collect Pond and its vicinity," as it was in 1795, when Robert Fulton and John Fitch first tried their experiments in steamboat navigation. Their little yawl is holding two men, and a steam engine that one could carry off under his arm is in full view. Collect Pond was at that time where the center of New York City now stands. Center street and the Tombs now occupy the historical navigable lake.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 22, 1876.

ENOUGH stock has been subscribed by the citizens of this place to purchase a half interest in a steamboat for the Arkansas River. Parties will be sent to make the purchase, soon. A number of propositions have been received, and if the first boat makes a successful trip, others will follow. Arkansas City is the head of navigation on the Arkansas.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 22, 1876.

Parties are talking of sending another flat boat, loaded with corn and potatoes, down to Little Rock, Arkansas. The river is full to the banks now, and will continue to be for four months, if it does not vary from preceding years.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 29, 1876.

Parties at Plainfield, Ohio, are constructing a boat with the intention of putting in on the Arkansas River this spring, to ply between Little Rock, Ark., and this place. It will be of light draught, but capable of carrying sufficient burden to make the trips pay. Hay and corn are in good demand in Arkansas, and lumber and southern products are staple articles here. We expect to see a boat launched at this place within the next three months. The Arkansas River is the third largest river in the United States, and with proper effort can be made a navigable stream.

Winfield Courier, March 30, 1876.

The people of Arkansas City are in earnest about navigating the Arkansas River. They have raised considerable money to be invested in a steamboat and one is expected to arrive at that place from Little Rock before long. The venture shows them to be an enterprising people. They believe in doing something for themselves and the country. Should the project prove favorable, the whole county will rejoice and be benefitted by the pluck of our neighbor. It would also give additional importance to the town. It already has the best public buildings in the county and the largest business house will soon be there. Should it become a shipping point, it will add a new impetus to its prosperity.

Winfield Courier, March 30, 1876.

ARKANSAS CITY capitalists will not invest their surplus this year in the attempt to navigate a stream the Lord declared not navigable. Because, Chamberlain's instructions are to tax all "steamboat and gas company shares." That lets them out.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 5, 1876.

A BOAT drawing four feet of water could run up the Arkansas River now, without any trouble. The river is full from bank to bank. Corn could be purchased at fifteen cents per bushel, and floated down to Little Rock, where it would readily sell for seventy-five cents. If a boat should come up now, and pay cash for corn, the farmers would be hauling corn to town for a week after the boat had left in hopes of getting rid of the stale product.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 5, 1876.

From parties formerly near Plainfield, Ohio, we learn that the company now building a boat for the Arkansas, is composed of reliable men of means, who will no doubt carry out the project.

Cowley County Democrat, Thursday, April 6, 1876.

Mr. Hoyt has started from Arkansas City to make a purchase of a steamboat to navigate the Arkansas River. This looks like business.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 12, 1876.

Mr. Samuel Hoyt started last Sunday for Cincinnati, Zanesville, Plainfield, and the upper Ohio River, to make a purchase or offer a bonus for a boat for the Arkansas River. A company has been formed and chartered, under the laws of this State, and the matter will soon be demonstrated whether the river is navigable above Fort Gibson. If it proves a success, it will be one of the greatest blessings Cowley County and Southern Kansas has ever had. Thousands of bushels of corn, potatoes, and other products, now a drug on the market, could be sold for cash, and southern products laid down at our doors at a much lower rate, besides it will eventually open up the great lumber regions of Arkansas, and develop a section of country now scarcely inhabited.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1876.

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 26, 1876.

Mr. Hoyt writes from Plainfield, Ohio, to C. R. Mitchell that the Arkansas River boat will be completed and landed at this place by the first of June.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.

Are on hand with the Largest Stock of Staple and Fancy Groceries, Provisions, Stoneware, etc., you have seen in the City.

Our stock of Teas is the largest ever brought to this market, and will be sold lower than ever before, and cheaper than any house in the Valley. Drop in and see us.

Store at J. H. Sherburne's old stand, one door south of City Hotel, and opposite the Cowley County Bank.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.

A small boat has been constructed at the Water Mills to cross the Walnut.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.

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, May 17, 1876.

A young girl of sweet sixteen was seen running up and down the banks of the Walnut in a frantic manner last Saturday, exclaiming "I'd give five dollars to see that show." The river was up and the bridge down; she on one side of the raging Walnut while her sweetness was on the other. Her efforts were finally crowned with success by securing the aid of a boat, but lo, when they arrived in town to their moral horror they found the show was at Winfield, and again she gave vent to: "I'd give five dollars to see that show."

Excerpt...

Cowley County Democrat, May 18, 1876.

Mr. Hoyt says that the boat has moved down to Zanesville to put in the machinery, and will be along in June. He says a boat shall come up the river to Arkansas City, and when old man Hoyt says anything, he means it.

[NAVIGATING THE ARKANSAS RIVER.]

Winfield Courier, May 18, 1876. Editorial Page.

In regard to the scheme for navigating the Arkansas River, the Chautauqua News of the 29th, ult., says: Mr. Graverock passed through here last week on his way to St. Louis for the purpose of securing boats to run on the Arkansas River from its mouth as far up as Wichita or Arkansas City at least. If this can be accomplished, it will be a grand thing for all the country bordering upon that river. The immense amount of wheat grown in that country would then have a cheap outlet to the best markets in the world, and build up a trade rarely equaled anywhere. This would make Arkansas City an important, and soon, a very large city.

Elk Falls Ledger.

Winfield Courier, May 18, 1876.

FRED KROPP has completed his excursion boat, launched her above the bridge, and is now ready to accommodate all webb-footed pleasure seekers. For 25 cents he will carry you up the river to Island No. 10 and swim you back for nothing. The boat will carry eight persons. It is propelled by an Archimedes lever. Oars are dispensed with.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 24, 1876.

In regard to the scheme for navigating the Arkansas river, the Chautauqua News of the 29th, ult., says: Mr. Graverock passed through here last week on his way to St. Louis for the purpose of securing boats to run on the Arkansas River from its mouth as far up as Wichita or Arkansas City at least. If this can be accomplished, it will be a grand thing for all the country bordering upon that river. The immense amount of wheat growing in that country would then have a cheap outlet to the best markets in the world, and build up a trade rarely equaled anywhere. This would make Arkansas City an important, and soon a very large city. Elk Ledger.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 24, 1876.

The steamboat for this place leaves Zanesville, Ohio, June 29th. It will take three weeks or more to make the trip. Preparations are being made to ship corn and potatoes during the summer, and hay and flour in the fall.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 31, 1876.

Last Monday was the day for the Arkansas City boat to leave Zanesville, Ohio. It will probably take four weeks to make the trip, going via the Ohio to Cairo, then down the Mississippi to the mouth of the Arkansas, then up the Arkansas: a total distance of probably 3,000 miles.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 31, 1876.

The boat started from Zanesville, Ohio, last Monday, if nothing interfered. The types made us say the start was to be in June, last week, when it should have been May.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1876.

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 14, 1876.

The steamboat for this place left Zanesville, Ohio, June 3rd, and is now on the way. The name of the boat is "Gen. G. F. Wiles," named for a prominent boat builder of Zanesville.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, June 21, 1876.

The damage to the wheel was repaired at Gallipolis, and the boat is on the way again. Mr. Samuel Hoyt is the Captain, and is determined to bring it through if it takes all summer. At Gallipolis he was arrested and fined $55 for not registering the boat, according to law. Being new men at the business, they were not aware of the rules. July 15th is the time set for the arrival of the "Gen. G. F. Wiles" at this place. It should be renamed "Samuel Hoyt," "Arkansas Traveler," "Wash-a-wa ha" (the Osage meaning for "brave white man,") or the "Relief," from the fact that the boat is to relieve us of the burden of hauling our products fifty miles to market. The present name has no meaning to us.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.

The Indians are willing to have boats on the river, but object to railroads.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.

ARRANGEMENTS are endeavored to be made to send some parties to Little Rock, Arkansas, to meet and come up on the Arkansas City boat.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.

S. C. WINTIN and M. A. FELTON are about to build a flat boat, and load it with corn for the Little Rock market. Mr. Wintin made one trip before with flour, and thinks corn will pay.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.

A man across the Walnut saw the box of a header machine, near the Arkansas River, and thinking it was a steamboat, left his plow and ran a hundred yards toward it, when he thought there was no smoke, and taking a closer view saw his mistake. He is a Granger too.

Winfield Courier, June 29, 1876.

The steam boat, Gen.'l Wiles, now on its way to Arkansas City, while passing down the Ohio river near Gallipolis, Ohio, was overhauled and its managers made to pay a fine of $55 for failing to register it before going "down the Ohio." It is probably on the stormy Mississippi by this time.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 5, 1876.

STEAMBOAT! The steamboat, "Gen. Wiles," passed Cincinnati on the 23rd ult., making seventy miles per day. Everything is in working order, and progress will be made without further delay if no accidents occur.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 5, 1876.

Last week William Fowler completed his sail boat, measuring sixteen feet long, and started for Little Rock, Arkansas, with his carpenter tools, provisions, and worldly possessions. He had his boat made with a wheel on each side, to turn with a crank, while sitting on the front seat facing the bow, and an attachment made to the rudder so as to steer with his feet, besides a strong sail to be used when the wind is favorable. He returns to Arkansas to remain permanently, as mechanics' wages are good and work plenty; besides, he has made the necessary arrangements to take unto himself a rib, to share the toils and privations of a life in the swamps.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1876.

HURRAH! The boat is on the Arkansas, and coming right along.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1876.

We expect to announce the arrival of the "Gen. Wiles" steamboat at this place within the next three weeks.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1876.

The Arkansas City boat is now stemming the current of the Arkansas River, not a great distance from Little Rock. If they take on coal in the Territory, it will delay them two weeks, as it has to be dug yet.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1876.

The following, from the Cowley County Telegram, gives an unbiased expression and feeling of gratitude in behalf of the farmers, and general progress of all.

It gives us pleasure from time to time, to give all the information in regard to the Arkansas City steamboat that we can glean from the "TRAVELER." We look upon this experiment as one in which the whole of Cowley County is deeply interested--and for the success of which each and everyone of her citizens should pray. The successful navigation of the Arkansas River as far north as Cowley County is the next best thing to a railroad--in fact, we believe that it would be much better for the county as it would present a much cheaper outlet for surplus produce than we could possibly get through the medium of any road. And the arrival of the boat now coming should be the signal for a general rejoicing throughout the entire county. We suggest that when our neighbors can have the exact day of its arrival that they notify the county so that the farmers may be there en masse to send up a shout of joy when the smoke stack first rises in view, and send up cheer after cheer in answer to the tones of its whistle and peal of its bell. What say you, Scott? Can't you make that a "big day" for the little city?

Cowley County Democrat, July 13, 1876.

The last report from the steam boat was that it had reached Little Rock, Arkansas, and was making rapid strides for its destination. It is thought it will arrive at Arkansas City by the 20th of this month.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1876.

In looking over the county papers, and talking with gentlemen from different sections of the county, we find it is generally expected that Arkansas City will have a grand celebration when the steamboat arrives. The people of Winfield and Oxford have asked us to notify them as to the exact time of its arrival, when they will endeavor to come down and help us out in our jollification. To this we say, we will do our best to notify all, but the probabilities are the whistle will be the first warning we will have of its approach--in which case the fandango can be postponed until the day following, when we want everybody in the county here to yell, and we promise them the demonstration will eclipse anything of its kind ever witnessed in Cowley County.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1876.

C. R. MITCHELL received a letter from Wm. Fowler, who left this place June 24, for Little Rock, Arkansas, in a small sail boat, in which he reports his safe arrival at Russellville, some seventy miles below Fort Smith. He had a rough time of it, as the river was constantly raising and filled with driftwood; but he made good speed, traveling 150 miles in one day, and being but six days in making the distance. He made inquiry concerning the "Gen. Wiles," but it had not at that time reached Little Rock, though it must be near Ft. Smith now.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1876.

Mr. M. A. Felton started for Wichita, last Saturday morning, with the intention of building a flatboat there and floating pine lumber down the Arkansas to this place. He thinks he can come down in one day at the present stage of the water.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1876.

The money has been subscribed, and a sail and row boat fitted out to go down the Arkansas, with Messrs. McLaughlin and Chamberlain as voyageurs. Their purpose is to meet Mr. Hoyt and the steamboat, and return with them.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1876.

We learn that Messrs. Tolles and Endicott, of Grouse Creek, built a flatboat, twenty-five feet long by six feet wide, and loading it with 4,000 pounds of flour, started on Sunday morning down the Arkansas to find a market. This is just a trial trip; but if successful, it is their intention to ship all their flour in that direction.

Winfield Courier, July 27, 1876.

The steamboat that has been expected at Arkansas City, at last accounts was detained at the mouth of the Arkansas River because the engines were not strong enough to stem the current.

Winfield Courier, July 27, 1876.

We learn that Messrs. Tolles and Endicott, of Grouse Creek, built a flatboat twenty-five feet long by six feet wide, and loaded it with 4,000 pounds of flour, started on Sunday morning down the Arkansas to find a market. This is just a trial trip, but if successful, it is their intention to ship all their flour in that direction. Traveler.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 2, 1876.

A. O. HOYT received another letter from his father last Monday night. At the time of writing (July 24) he was at Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where they had been further detained by sickness of the crew. He now thinks the power of their engine is sufficient to bring the boat up to this place.

Winfield Courier, August 3, 1876.

The heavy firing heard the other morning south of town was supposed to be at Arkansas City. It was thought the steamboat had arrived. It proved to be two modern Nimrods that went out early to head off the game law.

Excerpt...

Winfield Courier, August 3, 1876.

A. O. Hoyt received another letter from his father last Monday night. At the time of writing (July 24) he was at Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where they had been further detained by sickness of the crew. He now thinks the power of their engine is sufficient to bring the boat up to this place.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

A LETTER from the steamboat men informs us that they were at Little Rock on the 31st of July. They are coming right along, don't forget it.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

The latest news from the steamboat is to the effect that a new engine is being bargained for, which will cause a further delay of about two weeks.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

The Oxford people are taking a lively interest in the navigation of the Arkansas River, knowing that the success of the experiment is the success of the farmers and businessmen.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

Messrs. McLaughlin and Chamberlain, who left this place in a sail and row boat the 25th of July, arrived at Fort Gibson August 1st. They intend coming back with the "Gen. Wiles."

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

The people of Arkansas City are enterprising and industrious. For nearly half a year they have expected a small steamboat up the Arkansas River. We admire their pluck, and do not wonder at the growth, beauty, and order noticeable in this border town. Indian Herald.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 16, 1876.

On Friday afternoon another boat left this place, having on board Mr. Barnes, Al. Mowry, and Frank Speers. They intend to come back with the steamboat, Mr. Barnes as pilot, with Al. and Frank as engineers. A letter was received from the parties in Little Rock last Thursday, stating that they purposed starting from that place with the steamer yesterday.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 23, 1876.

L. McLaughlin writes from Little Rock, Arkansas, that they would "fire up and start the boat for this place in one hour." We suppose that by this time they are well on the way.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 30, 1876.

Mr. Hoyt, A. Chamberlain, and L. McLaughlin returned from Little Rock last week, and Allen Mowry and the pilot are expected soon. It was found that the boat with its present power could not come farther on account of the strong current over the rapids above Little Rock. A new engine is to be put on and another trial made soon. The pilot reports good water all the way down, and the only difficulty is insufficient power. Parties at Little Rock offer to put on the additional engine, and take an interest in the boat in order to make the enterprise a success, or put a boat of their own on the river as soon as one can be built, and run the two. Mr. Hoyt deserves great credit for the effort made to bring the boat up. His health failing, he was compelled to come home, and is at present down with the Arkansas chills.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 30, 1876.

A railroad and steamboat meeting was held at Kager's office Monday evening, and it was determined to offer an inducement to parties at Little Rock to come up with one of their large boats.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 6, 1876.

Mr. E. B. Kager received a letter last night from Mr. H. O. Barnes, the pilot who explored the Arkansas River from this place to Little Rock, in which he says there is plenty of water, and a larger boat with a more powerful engine will start for this place in two days. She gets $300 when he lands at this place and a load back. The name of the boat is the "Inspector." In side of four weeks we expect to see her.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 13, 1876.

STEAMBOAT meetings will be held in the different school districts this month for the purpose of organizing a company whereby the farmers can ship their own products.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 13, 1876.

The Baird Brothers are building a skiff boat to convey two passengers down the Arkansas. The parties hire the boat built, and expect to make a voyage to the Mississippi.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1876.

Meetings will be held at the schoolhouses in the several school districts, to discuss the question of steamboat navigation on the Arkansas River, as follows:

At Salt City Schoolhouse, Parker's Schoolhouse, South Bend Schoolhouse, Bland's Schoolhouse, Coburn's Schoolhouse, Wednesday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m.

At Theaker's Schoolhouse, Hunt's Schoolhouse, Holland's Schoolhouse, Spring Side Schoolhouse, Thomasville Schoolhouse, Maple City Schoolhouse, and the store at Silverdale, Thursday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m.

Speakers will be in attendance, and all are requested to be present and express their views.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1876.

REMEMBER the steamboat meetings.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1876.

MR. HOYT's report of his steamboat trip was made in full, at the meeting, last Monday.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1876.

Chas. McIntire and Will. Leonard are having a boat built to make a voyage down the Arkansas. They are to engage in the rubber stamp business on the way.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 27, 1876.

CHARLES McINTIRE and WILL LEONARD started from Harmon's ford yesterday, for the voyage down the Arkansas. They have a good boat, covered with oil cloth, with a portable stove in it to do their cooking, and expect to float all the way to New Orleans.

Arkansas City Traveler, September 27, 1876.

FRANK SPEERS, AL. MOWRY, MR. BARNES, and WILL ALEXANDER returned last night from Little Rock, where they have been looking after the Arkansas City boat. Most all of the number had been sick, and had a rough time of it.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 4, 1876.

The boys tell some amusing anecdotes of their trip down the Arkansas. To avoid mosquitoes, they generally slept on a sand bar, and were almost certain to hear the steamboat coming every night. Nothing can be done until a new engine is put in, and our citizens are endeavoring to have it done, so that the boat can come up.

Arkansas City Traveler, October 11, 1876

A meeting was held at Salt City yesterday in the interest of the steamboat enterprise. Speakers from abroad were present and much was said but little was done. If a sail-boat was built and these blowers from Arkansas City and Little Rock would take charge of it, drift sand would be but little bother. Sumner Co. Democrat.

Come boys, Sumner County is as much interested in the navigation of the Arkansas River as Arkansas City; if she is not, she should be. It requires no bonds for a steamboat.

Excerpt from long article...

Arkansas City Traveler, December 13, 1876. Front Page.

The Arkansas River is navigable as far as Ft. Gibson, and the recent exploration by Capt. Barnes, and his party, proved it could be navigated as far north as this county. A test is being made at the present writing.

Excerpt...

Arkansas City Traveler, January 3, 1877.

Efforts are being made to clear the Arkansas River for steamboat navigation to this point. It is expected this object will be realized. Its consummation will bring a happy day to Arkansas City.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1877.

A proposition has been made, and accepted by a steamboat man, for the bringing of the "General Wiles" from Little Rock, Arkansas, to this place.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1877.

Mr. Graverock, an engineer of Kansas City, of some reputation, has accepted the proposition of the Boat Company of this place to bring the steamboat "Gen. Wiles," from Little Rock to this place, and says it is only a question of time when he will reach here. He owns one small boat that was built for, and is being used, on the Neosho River for carrying rock for bridge purposes, and intends to bring it up also.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1877. Front Page.

Editor Traveler:

DEAR SIR: Shortly after the 7th of November last, we started up the Arkansas River on the steamer Gen. Wiles for Washington, to look after the post office at your city. After traveling for several weeks, with prospects the brightest, on nearing an island opposite Big Bend, we saw an armed force, and supposed they were friends, but afterwards found them to be enemies, strongly fortified. They ordered us not to attempt to pass. We finally laid siege, and after several weeks of most bitter struggling, they sent out a flag of truce with the following: "You can't take an eight spot with a seven." They went back and opened out on us with all vengeance, and we soon finding ourselves overpowered by numbers, dropped back, and off to the left to the mouth of Salt water. In order to save ourselves, we ran up Salt water some distance, and on examination found the water was getting hot. Fearing some evil ahead, we dropped back and made for land, and on nearing land we were met by friends, who welcomed us among them, even offering us the post office of this city. Now that the struggle is over, we feel safe, happy, and contented. The country is lovely, with good lands and cheap homes for all that may wish to come among us. W. M. BERKEY.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 2, 1877.

MR. GRAVEROCK, who has contracted to bring the "General Wiles" steamboat, belonging to the company at this place, from Little Rock, says he will make the start in about thirty days. He asked for more time so as to allow him to finish erecting a bridge in Neosho County that he has the contract for.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 30, 1877.

Last week Thos. Baird, Will Alexander, Chester Loveland, and a stranger lashed 15,000 feet of pine lumber together, at Wichita, making three rafts of it, and started for this place.

For awhile everything was a success, but as the lumber became soaked and the lashing more slack, trouble began to grow apparent. They followed the current, making time at the rate of ten miles an hour, until the river made a sudden bend, when one of the rafts struck a tree. The man jumped off of it and tied the rope, but the current was too swift, and it sped on down the river. When the others came along they tied up for the night, and in the morning went in search of the missing raft, which they found in a corn field not far away. The result of the experiment was, one raft left seven miles from Wichita, one left twelve miles above Oxford, and one that came through all right. The boys think if they were to try it again, they could come through safely.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 30, 1877.

CHESTER LOVELAND, formerly a resident of this place, made a short call last week. He came down from Wichita on Thomas Baird's lumber raft.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 6, 1877.

VOYAGERS. Tom and Jake Haney and Hallett, with their wives, started on a journey to Arkansas in a small boat last week. They were making twelve miles an hour when last seen.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 13, 1877.

The Haney brothers and Mr. Hallett started down the river last Tuesday, the 31st of May. Their boat was well made, and large enough to carry 20 tons. It was 12 x 80 feet, with gunnels 4 x 16 inches, with an additional plank, 2 x 10, pinned down four inches on the outside of the main gunnel, giving a depth of 22 inches. When loaded with their household goods, it drew about six inches of water. The good wishes of all their friends accompany them on their way. Mr. Haney intends to work at his trade in Arkansas.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 27, 1877.

Another boat for the Lower Arkansas is now tied up at the bridge. It is sixty feet long, and provided with two cabins all complete and painted. Wichita Eagle.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1877.

ANOTHER BOAT, about thirty-five feet long by twelve feet eight inches in width, is lying at the west ferry with a load of drugs, bound for Fort Smith. It has a cabin on each end, and contains thirteen persons and five tons of chattels. Dr. Trichen, of Wichita, has command of the vessel, and is moving his entire drug store from the railroad terminus of Sedgwick County.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1877.

MANSON REXFORD started from this place last Thursday morning, and reached Kaw Agency Friday morning with a load of machinery for the Agency, weighing 1,820 pounds.

His boat was six by sixteen feet.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1877.

THREE MEN STOLE CHARLES GALLERT'S BOAT and went down the Arkansas River.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1877.

ANOTHER BOAT from Hutchinson is making a trip down the Arkansas. It was anchored at the bridge last Sunday.

Arkansas City Traveler, November 21, 1877.

Thomas Ryan, representative in Congress from the third district of Kansas, introduced a bill in the House on the morning of No. 14th, to provide for an examination and survey of the Arkansas River from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to the mouth of the Little Arkansas, in Sedgwick County, Kansas, to ascertain whether it is practical and what it will cost to improve the same that it will be suitable for navigation of commercial boats and vessels. Mr. Ryan has been advised by men familiar with the river that it is susceptible of such improvement at a cost not exceeding two hundred thousand dollars. Parties who have made the voyage from this place to Little Rock say the river can be made navigable at a comparatively small expense.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1877.

Capt. Peter Myers and J. Reed, Chief Clerk of the stern oar, started for Pawnee Agency last week with a cargo of corn. When last heard from they were doing well--(on a sand bar).

Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1877.

Mr. Bacon, a gentleman who has been engaged in running a steamboat on Lake Michigan for the past four years, is here to make a proposition to run a boat from Little Rock to this place, for a bonus of one thousand dollars, to be paid when the boat has made the second trip. He has examined the river, and claims a boat can be run without difficulty if the power is sufficient. The money will be subscribed and a contract entered into for the boat to be here next spring.

Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.

Steam boating is the order of the day again. A man, calling himself Bacon, agrees to bring a steamboat up the Arkansas for the modest sum of one thousand dollars, payable when he arrives at our dock. Our people are not quite as anxious for a steamboat ride as they were a year or two ago.

Winfield Courier, January 17, 1878.

A man named Bacon has examined the Arkansas River from Little Rock to Newton, Kansas, and proposes for a bonus of a thousand dollars to run a steamboat to the latter place.

Journal of Commerce.

We would suggest to our friend of the Journal that he post himself in the geography of Kansas in the contemplation of a trip to Newton via steamer. Eagle.

Winfield Courier, January 17, 1878.

The Journal of Commerce is all right on geography. The twenty-five miles of prairie from Newton to the old sand bed, called the Arkansas River, is quite level and sandy, and we don't see why a steamboat could not navigate it as well as it could from Wichita down through the sand of that old river bed.

Winfield Courier, January 17, 1878.

C. M. Scott, of the Traveler, has found time to visit this city twice within a week, which is pretty well for him considering his other work. Here is what the Traveler says he has to do.

"Besides the every day pursuit of publishing a newspaper, attending post office, making collections, or rather trying to, soliciting subscribers, etc., he is a notary public, agent of some Ohio capitalists, buys and sells corn, oats and flour, deals heavily in and makes a specialty of cord wood, posts, and rails, buys, trades, and sells Texas and Indian ponies, is a member of two railroad companies, a director in the Arkansas River Navigation Company, deacon in a new church organization, is interested in a racing pony, contractor for buildings, and other minor enterprises too numerous to mention, all to make both ends meet."

And we are informed that he visits his girl two nights a week in addition.

Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1878.

A SMALL FLAT BOTTOMED BOAT was built and placed on the river last week; bound for Fort Smith.

Winfield Courier, February 7, 1878. Editorial.

The house has passed a resolution, ayes 179, naes, 95, that in its judgment no subsidies in money, bonds, public land endowments, or by the pledge of public credit, should be granted or renewed by congress to any person or association to engage in public or private enterprises, but that all appropriations should be limited to such purposes and amounts as shall be imperatively demanded by the public service.

We believe this is the true doctrine if the term public service includes removing obstructions to navigation and communication. We hold it to be proper and right that the government should, for instance, keep an open channel for navigating the Mississippi; but we do not hold that it should allow a private association to own the river and control it for private or corporate profit.

It might have been well enough that the government should have constructed the first road to the Pacific (it did do so in fact for the subsidies it furnished in aid, if judiciously applied, would have built and equipped the road and have left a large margin for profit), but it is not right that a private corporation should own or control the road for the profit of such corporation after the government has built or even aided in building it.

Whatever the government aids in building, clearing, or repairing, it should control for the public benefit and no person or corporation should have any special interest or control therein. It should either be for the exclusive use of the government or be open for the use of all citizens of the United States on equal terms.

The Union Pacific has been a public benefit, of course, but it has been the greatest swindle that was perpetrated on the nation. One-half of the swindle, if judiciously applied by the government, would have made a better road and better equipments, and then the government would have been in a condition to control it and keep it open to the whole public on equal terms, regulating its use and collecting a revenue on its business. It would belong to the public just as the Mississippi does.

We hold that as the government is expending large sums of money on the Eads's jetties to provide for the passage of the mouths of the Mississippi by large vessels, she has the entire control of these channels and it would be right and proper for her to collect a revenue therefrom.

The Tom Scott Texas Pacific subsidy scheme is another projected swindle, second only to the Union Pacific and should be at once stamped with the condemnation of every member of congress and all thinking, honest men. The principle of the resolution adopted by the house is right and should be crystallized into and become a part of the constitution of the United States.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 20, 1878.

Lippmann is running on full time. During the last week there were two rafts of lumber, of ten thousand feet each, landed at Lippmann's landing on the Walnut. The Murphy movement has reached the mill. They have also formed an anti-tobacco society. The Ragamuffins and Advance had a boat race on Saturday. The Ragamuffins came out victorious, they challenge any two men in Creswell township for a race. If accepted, leave word at the mill. Strayed or stolen from the mill, three jacks, two blacks, and one red one. Persons finding the above will be rewarded by calling at the mill and leaving the property.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 27, 1878.

The papers have it now that "A man named Newton has examined the Little Rock as far as Arkansas, and proposes for a thousand pounds of Bacon to run a river from Arkansas City to the Journal of Commerce." The item originally was as follows.

A man named Bacon has examined the Arkansas River from Little Rock to Arkansas City, Kansas, and proposes for a bonus of a thousand dollars to run a steamboat to that place.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 10, 1878.

The following letter from our energetic representative in Congress, shows that the "improbable" survey of the Arkansas is to be made. Thanks to our wide awake member.

Friend Scott: The House Committee on Commerce has agreed to provide for a survey of the Arkansas river from Fort Smith up to the mouth of the Little Arkansas, to determine the practicability and cost of making it navigable for commercial boats. The survey will be thorough, embracing the subjects of river, slack water, and casual navigation.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 17, 1878.

ED. STANDARD: In the past 48 hours we have had copious showers. The ground is now soaking wet, and it is pouring down rain. This insures our wheat crop, unless some unforeseen event happens to injure or destroy our prospects. Our wheat crop never looked better at this season of the year. In many places it is two feet high, much of it jointing. But the oldest inhabitant never heard, saw, or dreamed of such a season as this. Our peach trees are nearly all out of bloom, and the leaves are out quite green in the woods; some trees, as the maples, are almost in full leaf. The prairies are quite green--as much so as I have seen them in May. Our farmers are preparing for harvest already, selecting their reapers, harvesters, and headers. This season nearly all the harvesters are supplied with self-binders. In a few years, if our agricultural machinists keep on inventing, our farmers will have nothing to do but oversee and give instructions, ring a little bell, and the horses will hitch up themselves and go to work, plow and sow, reap and mow, and haul the grain to market.

Our implement dealers have the sidewalks encumbered with plows of all descriptions--

breakers, stirrers, sulky, and gang plows of all kinds, patterns, patents, and descriptions, besides a lot of implements that I don't know the use of.

With such machinery skillfully handled in our productive soil, with seasonable weather, who can contemplate the amount of produce that Cowley County might raise and export? Oh, if we only had an outlet down the Arkansas river to New Orleans direct, instead of going 1,100 miles around by way of Kansas City and St. Louis to get there! It is exactly the same distance from this place to Fort Smith, Arkansas, as it is to Kansas City, Missouri, and precisely the same distance to Napoleon, at the mouth of the Arkansas, that it is to St. Louis. At Napoleon we are only 615 miles above New Orleans--48 hours by steamer--while St. Louis is 1,240 miles, usually six days by steamer.

With the Arkansas River open for navigation from this place or Wichita to the mouth, there need be no famine in China, India, or elsewhere. The fertile valley of the Arkansas, like the Nile of old, would be the granary of the world. Its mild and healthful climate, rich and productive soil, must soon attract the attention of emigrants to its mines of hidden wealth. If our Government would spend one-fifth the amount in the cleaning and improving of our noble river that she does on some eastern harbor or ocean project, our most sanguine hopes would be more than realized, and it would pay the world at large in getting cheap food for the starving millions.

We want no protection from the Government for our labor. All we ask is a cheap outlet to the sea, the highway of nations, down to the Father of Waters. Broad or narrow gauge railroad bonds may, like physic, be thrown to the dogs.

I see your people and Kansas City are on the right track--the agitation of river navigation and improvement. It is the poor man's best hold. No pooling or combination in that. The mud scow and the floating palace have the same rights there. It is open to all, like the king's highway--the rich man's coach or the tinker's cart. Keep the ball rolling. Hurrah for Eads and river navigation. JAMES CHRISTIAN.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

A company of old settlers at Arkansas City are constructing a small flat bottomed steamboat, to play upon the Arkansas River below Wichita. That this enterprise is practicable, has never been questioned by river men who are acquainted with this stream. The Arkansas at all stages flows a sufficient volume of water.

The only obstacle to the navigation of this river, that has ever been apprehended, arises from the numerous bars of light sand, which it has been argued, were liable at any time to effect sudden changes in the current or channel. These men (one of whom is an old river boatman) says that every trip made with a boat has a tendency to draw the water to the proper channel, and to assist in removing or washing away these, by no means formidable, bars of light and floating sand. These parties are the first who have proposed to make a practical test, and we now hope the matter will be thoroughly tested, and have full faith in final success.

With the Arkansas River navigable even for small craft, it will secure to this part of the valley a position, and commercial advantages which can be acquired from no other source. Let the people take hold of this enterprise with a will, and extend the necessary aid and encouragement, and doubtless ere many months the people of this valley may receive their freight and ship their produce from points within their own borders. Sumner Co. Democrat.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

Mr. A. Walton, of Arkansas City, was in town last Friday. Mr. Walton came up to ascertain how much the Oxford people would subscribe to a project, now on foot, to construct a boat, to be propelled by steam, to navigate the Arkansas river between Wichita and Arkansas City. Mr. Walton says that the subscribers will not be requested to pay their subscription until one trip has been made between those points. Mr. Walton proposes to use a flat boat now at Arkansas City, and by using an ordinary steam engine and stern wheel, intends to experiment on the navigation of the Arkansas River. This sounds like business, and our people should give it a careful consideration before passing it by. Democrat.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

Messrs. Speers and Walton, of Arkansas City, are endeavoring to obtain the aid of the towns on the Arkansas River for the purpose of running a light draft boat between that point and Wichita. The boat is built, the machinery spoken, and everything in readiness to push the experiment. Mr. Walton was in town on the 12th looking after their interests. The citizens of this place will hold a meeting on the night of the 17th, to hear the gentleman's plans and objects, and to discuss the feasibility of the project. Independent.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

Oxford is agitating the question of steamboat navigation on the Arkansas River, between Arkansas City and Wichita. The project looks feasible. Ex.

Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.

SPEERS and WALTON will have their steam ferry boat ready to run this week, and before long will make a trial trip to Oxford, El Paso, and Wichita.

Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878. Editorial Page.

The steamboat spoken of on our second page is expected to reach Wichita about the 15th of next month. T. M. Lane and other gentlemen are enthusiastic in the belief that the enterprise will succeed. Messrs. Walton & Spears, who are putting their money into it, say they know they can navigate the Rackensack to the mouth of the Little river. If the government survey should determine Wichita to be the head of navigation and experience should determine the same thing, why--Wichita will be the biggest city in the west.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 1, 1878.

Thomas Ryan, our Member of Congress, writes, under date of April 2, that the House Committee have agreed to a survey of the Arkansas River. The following is the letter written to Scott, of Arkansas City.

FRIEND SCOTT: The House Committee on Commerce has agreed to provide for a survey of the Arkansas from Fort Smith up to the mouth of the Little Arkansas, to determine the cost and practicability of making it navigable for commercial boats. The survey will be thorough, embracing the subjects of river, slack water, and canal investigation.

In this connection Messrs. Walton and Speers, of Arkansas City, are building a light draught boat, of fifty feet length by sixteen feet beam, capable of carrying twenty ton of freight, drawing about seventeen inches of water. The boat is about ready to receive its engines, and the proprietors propose to visit Wichita within two or three weeks, we believe. These gentlemen are satisfied that after once learning the channel, they will find no difficulty in making regular trips, and to that end they were interviewing our businessmen on Monday.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 2, 1878. Front Page.

Messrs. Speers & Walton, of Arkansas City, are proposing to open navigation between Arkansas City and Wichita. They have a boat already built 16 x 50 feet with a draft of ten inches, and a carrying capacity of 40 tons. They will ask of our city and citizens the sum of $500; $250 to be paid upon the completion of two round trips between the above places. The trial trip will be made within the month. T. M. Lane will shortly circulate a petition for a subscription. There is no money to be paid until the feasibility of the navigation is demonstrated; our citizens should not withhold the sign manual.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.

A steamboat is plying the waters between this place and Wichita.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.

SPEERS and WALTON are going to name the steamboat the "Arkansas Traveler."

Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.

The steamboat made a trip to Salt City last Sunday evening without trouble. Becoming too confident, they then endeavored to go on after dark, and stuck on a bar, on which they remained until morning, compelling many of the anxious excursionists to return home on foot.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.

The steamboat made the trip from Salt City to this place in three quarters of an hour last Monday morning--a distance of seven miles.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.

The steamboat, "Arkansas Traveler," made another voyage several miles up the river last Sunday, loaded with excursionists.

Winfield Courier, May 9, 1878.

Saw S. P. Channell yesterday. He says the steamboat runs nicely between Arkansas City and Salt City. Salt will come down of course. He says the steamer took on a new pilot at Salt City, who ran the steamer aground. The piles are being driven for the bridge across to Bolton.

[BEAVER CORRESPONDENT: "LITTLE BEAVER."]

Winfield Courier, May 9, 1878.

We watch the big sandy for the steamboat, and listen for the shrill whistle, but see and hear it not. Suppose they are putting trucks under it to navigate dry places.

The Daily Winfield Courier, Saturday Morning, May 11, 1878.

Arkansas City has quietly built a steamboat that will carry fifteen tons, and it has made a successful trip to Salt City and return at the lowest stage of water for more than a year, and yet they seem to think this is nothing to what they are to do in the steamboat line when the river is surveyed.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 15, 1878.

That steamboat is a verity; the navigation of the raging Rackensack an assured triumph. The new steamer spoken of two weeks since has been launched at Arkansas City, and made a successful trip from the latter point to Oxford, twenty miles up the river. We are told that the reason the "new and elegant steamer" failed to "come up" to Wichita is because Wichita failed to "come down" to her. Wichita Eagle.

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 15, 1878.

The steamboat carries cord wood and saw logs from a point ten miles up the river to this place. The captain informs us he will make a trip to Wichita in a week or two. When the roads are bad and travel impeded, the boat will be found a very desirable way of shipping goods. It is thought the trip can be made from Wichita to this place, when the water is at an ordinary stage, within twenty-four hours, and with no more risk than with a wagon.

[KANSAS NEWS.]

Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878. Front Page.

Arkansas City has quietly built a steamboat that will carry fifteen tons, and it has made a successful trip to Salt Creek and returned at the lowest stage of water for more than a year. Winfield Courier.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878.

The steamboat took a number of excursionists down the Walnut and back Sunday afternoon for 25 cents for the round trip. There is more pretty scenery on the Walnut than most people are aware of, and those that made the trip enjoyed it very much.

Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878.

The steamboat, after making a voyage of twenty-five miles down the Arkansas last week, came up the Walnut River as far as Harmon's ford. A trip will be made to a point about eight miles east of Pawnee Agency in a few days, and a contract entered into on their return for delivering freight at the same place.

Winfield Courier, May 23, 1878.

The steamboat started yesterday for the Pawnee Agency.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 5, 1878.

ANOTHER boat excursion down the Walnut last Sunday.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 5, 1878.

THERE were twenty-seven persons on the steamboat last Tuesday week. They were conveyed to the river in a wagon, and from the ford at Harmon's went to the large island about three miles below the mouth of the Walnut. The trip was enjoyed by all. A. A. Newman and R. A. Houghton unfortunately were tipped from the small row boat into the river while attempting to get on the boat.

Winfield Courier, June 6, 1878.

A gentleman navigated the "Rackensack" from Wichita to Arkansas City in a flatboat recently. It took him two days to make the trip. He brought in two catfish weighing 70 pounds, which he found stranded on a bar, and shot.

Winfield Courier, June 13, 1878.

ED. COURIER: Supposing that you would be interested in common with the citizens of Cowley County in an experiment which we have been making with what the K. C. Journal calls a "sorghum pan," to develop the capacity of the Arkansas River for transportation, I send you this brief history of the attempt as far as developed.

Our boat is 16 x 50 feet, our engine 12 horsepower, our draft about ten inches. Our first attempt was up the river; from Arkansas City, the river at a very low stage, we succeeded in finding sufficient channel as far as Salt City ferry, and left the investigation there in good water. But as we desired to know the channel below Arkansas City while the water was low, and we were expecting a rise, we turned down the stream and below the mouth of the Walnut. Our first trip was below the mouth of Grouse into the Indian Territory and about twenty-five miles. We found the river channel, after passing the mouth of the Walnut, a great deal better.

The obstructions or hindrances to navigation, I think, can mainly be set down under three heads. The rocky chutes where rocks on top and underneath have to be avoided, and where the water runs very swiftly. Three of these occur between the mouth of Walnut and Deer Creek, but in all of them the water is amply sufficient to float a light draught boat.

The next difficulty is the crossings where the channel crosses from one side of the river to the other, and in these are the principal difficulties, as the water divides, and you must follow the main body or strike a bar; but I think we found no place that the deepest water in the main channel would not go 15 inches, or sufficient to carry a light draught. These crossings could be greatly improved by a very little aid in turning and directing the current. The only other obstructions are the snags. They are generally in deep water, and sometimes they seem to have piled in together to keep each other company, and the mariner has to do considerable dodging to keep from shaking hands.

As I wrote, we made our first trip 25 miles down, and we felt considerable anxiety as to how our little craft, geared with belt and pulley, would drive us up stream. But when we turned our little engine in against the Arkansas, we soon had our confidence restored. It showed us from the first mile that it had the power and the will to take us back home, and I thought the little fellow kept saying, "Now if you will only make those old belts stand, I'll put you through." We made home in less than a day without any trouble.

Our next trip was 50 miles down the river. We ran 45 miles from 1 o'clock, and the rest next morning. I think the river grows better and the channel deeper as you go down. This trip was made without meeting any difficulties. There is some beautiful scenery as you pass down where the scattering trees stand out on the hill slopes and remind one of the gentlemen parks of merry old England, of which we have read, and a trip up and down is worth taking, for there is certainly some of the fairest country that ever laid out of doors in the possession of the noble red man along the waters of the "Big Sandy."

In conclusion, if we have only taken the initiative step that will make useful the waters of this grand highway that will open the doors to a cheaper transportation and a better market, we have done something. Our reward so far has been laughter; our encouragement nix, but we shall hold out faithful to the end, as we try a freight trip to Pawnee Agency on Tuesday. Yours truly, A. W. [Believe this was Amos Walton.]

Arkansas City Traveler, June 26, 1878.

"OLD AUNT SALLY is good enough for anybody; Old Aunt Sally is good enough for me," is the tune the farmers will sing when "AUNT SALLY" arrives and makes a cash market for wheat. The boat by that name left Little Rock, Arkansas, last week, and is expected here in ten days.

Arkansas City Traveler, June 26, 1878.

Hon. Thos Ryan is not the only man who thinks there is a future for the Great Arkansas River.

President Grant, in one of his messages, called the attention of Congress to the feasibility and immense importance of rendering the stream navigable and to the practicability of utilizing its waters in a great canal that would successfully and cheaply transfer the entire surplus products of the valley to the headwaters of ship navigation on the Mississippi River. The river might be either successfully "jettied" or "locked," but we think there could be no doubt of the success of a canal. Grant was not only a good President and a great General, but a successful civil engineer, and we believe he knew what he was talking about when he told Congress that there was something in the Great Arkansas River besides catfish, sandbars, and water snakes. Eagle.

Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, July 3, 1878.

For years our people have talked of navigation on the Arkansas River from Little Rock or Fort Smith to this place. The columns of this paper have been freely used by numerous parties in attempting to prove the practicability of running a line of steamboats on the "raging Arkansas," and in these communications statistics from all over the country have been put forth to convince the people that the saving in the cost of transportation was of such magnitude as to justify the outlay of a good round sum in experimenting. The "shovers of the quill" pictured in glowing colors the immense advantages river navigation would give the town, county, and the whole of Southern Kansas--the entire State, we may say, for that which benefits one portion of the State benefits all, directly or indirectly.

Railroads were desirable, it is true, for the building up of a town, and for carrying away the surplus of farm products; but transportation by water was the "consummation devoutly to be wished," as thereby the farmers would be enabled to sell their produce at a nearer and much better market. It has been clearly proved that where one town prospers through the means of a railroad, half a dozen excel it through the advantages possessed in having a water outlet.

In all the efforts of our people to satisfactorily demonstrate that the Arkansas is a navigable stream for boats of light draught, they have met with most bitter opposition and ridicule at times from the towns remote from the river's banks--and even the press from some of the towns have seen fit to hurl lance after lance at the handful of men at the mouth of the Walnut who were struggling for the advancement of the whole country as well as for the good of the city of Arkansas City.

Our citizens have sent representatives to Washington, in order to enlist the sympathies of our Congressional delegates, but until quite recently these Congressmen have displayed a singular apathy in a question of such commercial importance.

They preferred to vote yes on the appropriation bills before that August body, whether it be for draining some man's cow yard in the East, or for building a cordwood landing on the Missouri or Mississippi, but would not try for an appropriation to help the thousands of people who would be benefitted by the improvement of the Arkansas.

One tenth of the useless expenditures on wild cat railroads which have been sanctioned by Congress would put a line of steamers on this river and build all the landings between our city and the mouth of the river. Still those in power remained inactive and apparently disinterested.

Nearly three years ago Messrs. Berkey, now of Salt City, and Wintin built a pine flat boat at this place, loaded it with flour, and started for Little Rock. It was purely a venture, and a private one. Both parties were satisfied that a boat could go down the river with a good load, and they realized that the best way to demonstrate this to the satisfaction of everyone was to make the trip, or trial. It would furthermore serve to draw the attention of the people of Arkansas to the incalculable good to be drawn from the success of those engaged in the work. The boat started in low water, but after the first two or three days little or no trouble was experienced in making the trip.

Well can we remember the Sunday morning when they were advertised to start. The bridge over the Arkansas was crowded with spectators eager to see the first boat from Arkansas City start for the South, and the churches were mainly filled with empty benches.

News from that unassuming flat boat was watched for with as intense interest as though the lives of all on board were in peril. This enterprise was not a success financially, but it was the cause of sending Mr. Samuel Hoyt east the following summer--the Centennial Summer--with instructions to do all in his power to get a boat to come up to this point. Mr. Hoyt went to Ohio, where he purchased a light draught steamboat, and engaged a captain and crew to make the trip.

They steamed down the Ohio and into the Mississippi, the father of rivers, and thence down to the mouth of the Arkansas. Here they experienced considerable trouble with high water, as the engine was not powerful enough to work against the strong current of the Arkansas, but after a delay of several weeks they got as far up as Little Rock, where the boat was abandoned, it having become evident that it was not the right sort of a boat for this river.

The failure of this enterprise was a damper on the spirits of our people, and the enemies of the project crowed louder than ever over our loss. It was considerable of a loss, as the boat cost three thousand dollars, and only sold for three hundred--not to mention the expenses of Mr. Hoyt during the many weeks of his absence.

Not entirely discouraged, however, several parties in this vicinity have been constantly writing to prominent men in Little Rock, in the hopes of reviving the interest in this great project, and our representative in Congress, the Hon. Thomas Ryan, has taken the trouble to work up an appropriation of $30,000 for the purpose of a survey of the river from Little Rock to Wichita--the result of which was, an enterprising and wealthy firm of that city, Messrs. Eisenmayer & Co., together with other gentlemen, exerted themselves in the cause, and chartered a steamboat to make the trip. To do this, quite a sum was made up to protect the boat from loss, and an agent of the firm, Mr. Charles Schierholz, was sent up here to buy old wheat for shipment.

The news that the steamboat "Aunt Sally" had started from Little Rock reached here Tuesday, the 25th of June, and from that time the topic of conversation has been nothing but steamboat. Even now there were many who openly laughed at the idea of a steamboat coming to our city, and considerately informed us that if we held our breath until that boat arrived, it would be a long while ere we breathed.

Those who had been friends to the enterprise hoped on, though hardly daring to express their convictions that their hopes would be realized. "Have you heard anything from the steamboat?" was asked every minute in the day almost, and though the answer was always in the negative, their expectations continued to raise with each passing day.

Last Saturday an Indian brought the startling news that the boat was seen to pass the Osage Agency on Friday, and that it was then past Kaw Agency without a doubt. Still those of little faith ridiculed the possibility of such a thing. Saturday afternoon some even claimed that they heard the whistle of the steamer and everybody was on the qui vive for news. On Sunday morning groups of men could be seen on the houses, with strong field glasses, looking for the tell tale smoke, and at about 9 o'clock, while many were leisurely taking their late Sabbath breakfasts, their ears were startled by a loud, though hoarse, sound in the direction of the river, which men familiar with such sounds instantly recognized as the whistle of a steamboat.

For a space of a minute or two, probably, nothing was heard, when one of the wildest yells that ever ascended to the empyrean rose from all over the town. Everything was confusion, and the men engaged in a mad race for the livery stables, each anxious to secure a conveyance. Soon another and louder whistle from dear old "Aunt Sally" nearly upset everybody within hearing, and the town just cut loose and ran for Harmon's ford, where the great column of smoke told us the precious receptacle was resting.

Excitement! There wasn't a sane person in the crowd of three hundred men, women, and children who went stringing down to the water. Arrived at the ford, we saw the long looked for "Aunt Sally."

There may be nothing wonderful in the appearance of a small river packet, built for the plantation business of the south. Many of the spectators on that Sunday morning have seen some of the handsomest crafts that ever rested on water; have spent days and nights in those magnificent vessels that sail in the great chain of northern lakes, and have crossed the mighty ocean, the while taking their ease in the most superb staterooms that can be fitted up for the convenience of mortals; but we seriously doubt if any of them ever experienced so much pleasure as they did when they gazed on the form of "Aunt Sally," and realized that the navigation of the Arkansas River was no longer problematical, but an accomplished fact.

Cheer after cheer rent the air, and the crew of eight that had been first to make this trip were received with open arms. Men, who heretofore had been first to church, forgot that this was the Lord's day, and that the preacher stood in the pulpit waiting to break the bread of life to their hungry souls. For once their spiritual appetites were appeased, and for fear that gnawing sensation, peculiar to famishing souls, would assert itself before they were through with the hand shaking, several buggies were supplied with enough "spirits" to revive the fainting ones. This was a better sermon to the lost of our community than was ever thundered from any pulpit in the land, and one whose effect would be lasting.

After an hour of talking with the river men, everybody was invited on board, and in a few minutes we were placidly gliding along the smooth surface of our beautiful Walnut River. And just imagine our sensations! We felt deliciously; felt as if "our back was buttered, and a convoy of angels, with rainbow-tinted wings, were pouring golden syrup upon our head until it trickled down even into our brogans;" or as if we had been intended for peach marmalade and spoiled in the cooking. Thrills of ecstasying joy coursed through our system like a two-year-old goat going uphill. We felt as though we had been let loose at a picnic dinner before anybody else was in sight. Felt better than after a Saturday night with Col. Bennett, Capt. Leach, and Evarts, the Secretary. In fact, we were felled, stunned, overwhelmed, and dum-fuzzled.

We wanted to see the man who said our river wasn't navigable, and then wanted to see him slapped into a straight-jacket for lunacy. We wanted to see him kicked by a jackass, though we were willing to let the contract out to someone else. We wanted--pshaw! We didn't want anything, only to be let severely alone, that we might contemplate upon the future of Arkansas City, that sits on a hill, and from her throne of beauty is yet destined to rule the commercial world of Southern Kansas.

Glancing down the vista of time, and gazing into the now almost certain future, we saw a glorious fulfillment of the promises made in our emigration circulars, and felt that though we had fought for this for years, and against home opposition, too, still we were blessed beyond our desserts. Time and again had our faith weakened, and in despairing tones, we could cry out, "How long, O Lord, how long?" and then we would read a few kind and friendly (!) notices in the Winfield, El Dorado, and Wichita papers relative to a tub at Arkansas City that could float on a heavy dew.

But "he laughs best who laughs last." Sneak into your holes, you insignificant, twinkling, inland towns, and never dare to stand in the broad, effulgent rays sent forth by a seaport city. Yes, pull your holes in after you, and leave not a trace of your miserable hamlets on the face of the earth. To fetch your metropolitan sportsman down here, and ere he returns he can "a tale unfold that will harrow up your soul, and make each individual hair stand up like quills upon the fretful porcupine." Then come down yourself and you will go back firm in the belief that "verily, the half had not been told," you will feel like pulling the "blue gingham apron of the sky" over your pale, dim little phizzes and keeping dark. The supply of greens will even fail, and the dilapidated carcass of the old woman with a case knife will breathe her last in one of your mud puddles, and rolling up her eyes like a dying duck in a thunderstorm, will pass o'er the jasper sea, and her history and yours will be as a tale that is told.

After the trip in the morning, the gentlemen connected with the boat, viz: Captains Barker and Lewis, proprietors; Messrs. Chapman and Smith, pilots; Mr. Colton, citizen of Little Rock, and Mr. Baird were driven uptown, and the crowd stopping at Schiffbauer's store, the doors were thrown open, and they filed in to partake of--well, there was a general good feeling pervading the people, and they did justice to all that was handed out. By this time the hotel man warned them that it was time for attending to the "solids" required by the inner man, and they repaired to the Central Avenue, the guests of Mr. Chas. Schiffbauer, who sustained the reputation for liberality that this firm has gained.

In the afternoon the country people poured in from all quarters, as the news spread like wild fire that the steamboat was here, and that an excursion would be given at four o'clock.

At the appointed time the banks on either side of the river were lined with those anxious for a trip on the first steamboat that ever came up to Arkansas City.

At five o'clock the boat shoved off, with three hundred and seventeen persons aboard, and gave them a delightful voyage, while our brass band favored them with some of the finest music they had. Truly it was a pleasant sight, and an occasion long to be remembered by the participants.

The day ended as quietly as it had begun, and with the exception that the people were gathered in groups, earnestly discussing the pros and cons of the case, no one would have supposed anything unusual had occurred.

And now for the boat and the trip from Little Rock. The "Aunt Sally" (God bless her!) is a regular river packet heretofore plying between Perryville, Arkansas, and Little Rock, carrying cotton mostly. Her length is 85 feet, width 18 feet, and she draws 12 inches light and 18 inches loaded. At the registering office at Memphis she is registered at a capacity of 65 tons. She is owned by Captains Barker and Lewis, both of whom are river men of large experience. They left Little Rock on Tuesday, 18th inst., and reached Ft. Smith the Friday following, a distance of 280 or 300 miles. Left Ft. Smith on Friday, the 21st, and reached this place Sunday morning, the 31st of June, though they could have been here Saturday night as well. The report of every man on board the boat is that they had no difficulty in coming up, and they were surprised a steamer had not been up here years ago. The current is strong and swift, but with a boat built especially for a trade with this part of the country, they could make a round trip in eighteen days. In coming from Ft. Smith here they ran but 107 hours, and estimate the distance at about 450 or 500 miles.

The plan in navigating this river is to run a line of barges. A solid, compact boat, with a powerful engine, could make a fortune soon in plying between this point and Little Rock. The fact is self-evident, yet a few figures may not be uninteresting. The pine flooring which our people buy costs but $15 per thousand in Little Rock, and we have to pay $60 for the same quality at Wichita. Pressed hay cannot be bought there for less than $15 or $18 per ton, while we can lay it down at the wharf here for $5. Corn is worth 60 cents per bushel there, and in two months you can buy all you want for fifteen cents per bushel. Again, the towns around here and the agencies south of us in the Territory create a demand for an immense amount of groceries, etc., which trade Little Rock may as well have as to let St. Louis have it, while the saving in freight would buy a boat or two in a little while.

But there is no need of enlarging upon the benefits from an outlet by water. The people must see it in this light, and ere long we shall see a regular line of steamers plying between Little Rock and Arkansas City. Amen.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

The fast "flat" WICHITA loosed her moorings at island No. three, last Saturday after-noon, headed for Arkansas City, sailing master, Finely Ross; steer, who had the rudder hung for the occasion, Tom Woodman; cook, W. D. Russell; cabin passengers, Will Woodman, Capt. Cornell, and several others.

This boat will touch all the intermediate points and probably some others not in her shipping log. We hope she will never meet with the mishap that will compel her master to order the helm hard too, on account of the cooks being taken short, on provision, or the order issued to throw out her grappling irons and take reef around the cook's shirt tail. Beacon.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

Commodore Berkey made another successful voyage down the raging Arkansas, with less water than Columbus started to sail on. His boat was launched at the post called Oxford, and we are informed they took a load of fruit and lumber to Salt City. His enterprise and perseverance as a navigator is commendable to all. BILLY BARLOW.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

KANSAS CITY shipped 100,000 bushels of corn to St. Louis, last week, on the first line of barges run between those two cities. Barge navigation on the Missouri River promises to be a success, and will result in making Kansas City the city of the West--that is, until a line of steamers is established between this point and Little Rock.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

The boat that came up from Arkansas City, last Wednesday evening, attracting the citizens of the city almost unanimously, to the foot of the long bridge, was propelled by a belt and windlass. Her apparatus broke when near here, and the Captain hove to for the purpose of repairs. He said he came here to get shafting. Beacon.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

Aunt Sally will take your wheat, and H. Godehard will sell you groceries at bed rock prices. Remember this.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

THINGS WERE LIVELY on the Walnut soon after the arrival of the steamer "Aunt Sally" on Sunday, but nothing compared with the rush to Schiffbauer Bros. & Co. after the arrival of their caravan of new goods.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

TOM. CALLAHAN gazed in speechless astonishment for fifteen minutes at the steamer, "Aunt Sally," and then finding his tongue he burst out with, "Be Jasus, I can sell me hogs at me own door now."

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

YOU TRAVELER man: Send us up your steamboat, now you have a chance. We want to look at the thing. Eldorado Press.

Couldn't think of it for a moment. There isn't business enough up there to justify the proprietors in making the trip. But come down and see the Little Rock steamer, and then prepare to move your hamlets down here at the head of navigation.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.

The entire day tomorrow. We expect people from every town in Cowley and Sumner counties. Let everybody turn out and see the first Steamboat ever in this country. The

Winfield Courier, July 4, 1878.

C. A. Bliss, G. S. Manser, A. B. Lemmon, E. P. Kinne, J. C. Fuller, M. L. Read, T. R. Bryan, W. M. Allison, J. W. Curns, C. C. Black, D. A. Millington, E. S. Bliss, E. S. Torrance, A. E. Baird, J. B. Lynn, M. G. Troup, M. L. Robinson, J. C. McMullen, E. C. Manning, and probably many others, all with their wives, will make a raid upon Arkansas City, the steam boats, and Newman's dam on the Fourth. They will seize all the provisions they can find in the city, capture both the "Aunt Sally" and the--the--well, Amos' steamship, will rip out Newman's dam, and steam up the Walnut to Winfield, driving a large herd of catfish. Bliss and Harter & Harris will load the steamers with flour at their mills. The party will start at about 9 o'clock a.m.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

FRIEND MURDOCK: The steamer "Aunt Sally," from Little Rock, arrived this morning. Our town is mad with excitement. Men, women, and children, some on foot, some on horseback, others in buggies and wagons, rushed "pell mell" for Harmon's Ford on the Walnut, to witness a sight that our people have thought of, dreamed of, and prayed for the last six or seven years: a real, living, breathing steamboat; as the children sometimes say, "a sure enough steamboat."

There she was, puffing and blowing like a thing of life. Some two hundred people rushed on board and examined her all over, from deck to Texas--cabin, engine, boiler, water wheel--all were scrutinized. They were in her and all over her.

Steam being up, the captain invited all hands to a ride up the Walnut as far as Newman's mill and back. The bank was lined with people and the yells and cheers of those on deck and those on shore made the welkin ring. It was hip!--rip!--huzzah!--one after another. A general good time was had.

In the afternoon three hundred persons went aboard by invitation, for a ride down the river. Our cornet band did their best tooting on the occasion. Everything was hilarity and joy.

Little preaching was heard in Arkansas City today, you may depend. "Aunt Sally" was in everybody's mouth.

She will stay until after the 4th, and will try to get up and see Wichita, if possible. The boat is owned by Captains Burke and Lewis, of Little Rock; is 85 feet long, 18 feet wide, and draws 14 inches light, and about two feet when fully loaded; carries 40 tons; made the run from Ft. Smith to this place in six days; met with no difficulty or obstructions on the way; the pilot thinks the river even better above than below Ft. Smith.

At this stage of water a railroad is nowhere alongside of a steamboat. Hurrah for the navigation of the Arkansas! It is no longer a matter of speculation, but is now a fixed fact--a reality. The "Aunt Sally," the pioneer steamer of this great Southwestern river, has proved it. JAMES CHRISTIAN.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

The receipts of the steamboat excursion on the Fourth amounted to $160.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

We will have extra sheets again this week, containing Judge Christian's account of the steamboat, as published in the Wichita Eagle.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

Farmers and all interested in the steamboat question are requested to attend a meeting in Pearson's Hall, next Saturday, at 3 p.m.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

The Telegram last week spoke handsomely of our steamboat and of the benefits which river navigation would give to the entire county. Allison is always foremost in speaking for the good of Cowley. Now we would like to hear from the Courier man.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

A paper was drawn up and signed by all the principal businessmen in town, last Monday, the tenor of which was an expression of thanks to Messrs. Eisenmayer & Co., of Little Rock, Arkansas, for the interest they had taken in the navigation of the Arkansas River.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

Messrs. Seymour and McClaskey say that if the town will buy the ferryboat west of town, they will put a 20-horsepower engine on it, and take a load of wheat to Little Rock. Mr. Henry Pruden also makes a good offer: He would buy this boat and the one at Salt City, and putting 1,200 bushels of wheat on the two, take the load down to Little Rock. Here he would sell the barges for what he could get, and only ask the town to pay the deficiency, as they are worth much less there than here.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

The steamboat men desired us to express their thanks to the unknown person or persons who supplied them with that bountiful dinner on the Fourth. They were loud in the praise of Kansas hospitality, and declare they were never treated better in their lives than during their stay in Arkansas City.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

The editor of the El Dorado Press says that "a little steamboat capable of carrying ten tons penetrated the sand of the Arkansas" as far as this place. There wasn't any sand penetrating done, Mister. That isn't the kind of a steamboat we have down here--and then you missed your guess on the tonnage amazingly.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.

The steamboat started for Little Rock last Saturday, and the captain thinks they can make the trip in seven days, without trouble. Hon. C. R. Mitchell and Mr. Harter went as passengers, the former to represent Arkansas City, and the latter to look after the interests of his mills in Winfield.

Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.

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.

Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.

The "Arkansas Traveler" navigated by Messrs. Speers and Walton have demonstrated that the Arkansas River from the Pawnee Agency to Oxford is navigable for steamboats, and the "Aunt Sally" has removed all doubt from that part of the river from Pawnee Agency to Fort Smith. Boats of 150 tons burden and two feet draft can run all the way from New Orleans to Arkansas City for a part of the year without doubt.

The "Aunt Sally" is not one of the lightest draft boats. It draws about 14 inches light and 20 inches loaded. It is an old clumsy concern of very little value and was chosen to make the trial trip because if it should succeed in getting up the river and fail to get back, its loss would scarcely be felt. Its owners have a much larger boat that draws less water which they will now send up for a load. Other boats will follow and the present outlook is that a great deal of wheat is to be shipped from Arkansas City this year.

If this commerce proves to be what is promised, it will be a "great thing" for Cowley County; even if boats can run only three or four months in a year, it will be a great help. Twenty boats, each carrying 5,000 bushels of wheat to a trip, and each making fifteen trips in a year, would carry off our surplus crop and bring up our heavy groceries, lumber, and machinery, at a total saving of not less than $200,000 a year to our farmers.

If this proves a success, it will be due to our enterprising friends at Arkansas City who have struggled and labored, and spent their money freely for years to accomplish this result and they will justly reap the advantages of a large trade and an extraordinary impetus to the growth and importance of their town. We heartily congratulate them on their present flattering prospects and would gladly aid them by any means in our power, not only for themselves but for the benefit it will be to the whole county. Three cheers for Arkansas City!

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

STEAMBOAT NAVIGATION up the Arkansas River is the great cause of good quality and great bargains at Hoyt & Speers' Athletic Grocery. Down we come, passing bed rock to Little Rock prices. 5 lbs. coffee for one dollar; 4 lbs. tea, $1; 18 bars of soap, $1; 13 lbs. soda, $1; fruit jars almost at your own price. From this time we are in hopes to get our goods direct from St. Louis and Little Rock, via steamboat up the Arkansas River, which will enable us to start a wholesale house for the benefit of smaller towns in our county, such as Winfield, Maple City, Thomasville, Salt City, Webb Center, etc.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

The Pruden boys take 700 bushels of wheat down the river this morning on the barge.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

MR. O. J. PALMER will go down the river with the Pruden boys on the flat boat.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

THE PRUDEN BROTHERS, of Salt City, have loaded the boat formerly used as a ferry west of town, and intend taking their wheat down to Little Rock, if it can be done by mortal hands. Success to you, boys.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

When the navigation of the Arkansas River is a settled thing, and grain is regularly shipped by boats or barges, it will cost less than one-half to ship wheat to New Orleans than it costs to ship it to Kansas City from Wichita by rail.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

The parties who are circulating the report that "Aunt Sally" stuck in the Arkansas, on the morning of her return, would do better to confine themselves strictly to the truth. It was not in the Arkansas, but on the bar at the "cut-off," the worst place between here and Little Rock, that the boat stuck; and this can be avoided when the parties are more familiar with the river. Come, gentlemen, give the old man a chance, and throw your cold water on our heated citizens. They need it worse than the steamboat enterprise.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

New wheat only 55 cents at Wichita. Twenty cents off for freighting leaves the farmers of Cowley County only 35 cents per bushel for their crops this year, if they intend feeding the railroad magnates. Your only alternative is to unite on some steamboat project, and put your grain down south. No farmer can raise wheat and make a living by selling it at fifty cents.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.

At a meeting held at the Bland schoolhouse, July 13, for the purpose of making arrangements with D. B. Hartsock to carry our produce down the Arkansas River to Little Rock, Capt. R. Hoffmaster was called to the chair, and A. H. Buckwalter was chosen Secretary.

On motion the following six men were appointed to solicit subscriptions in aiding Mr. Hartsock in building a boat: E. Bowen, Lyman Herrick, G. O. Herbert, W. Chambers, Frank Lorry, and Wm. Trimble. Moved and seconded that the proceedings of this meeting be published in the TRAVELER. R. HOFFMASTER, Chairman.

A. H. BUCKWALTER, Secretary.

In connection with the above, we will state that Mr. Hartsock's plan is to raise money on the wheat solicited from the farmers, and then build or purchase a steamboat at Little Rock, or some other river town where boat building is carried on. Mr. Hartsock is a river man of large experience, having spent most of his life on the water, and if successful in raising the wheat, he will put a boat on this river as soon as one can be built. It will pay our farmers to contribute liberally to this enterprise, as they can more than save the amount of their donations in the price they will get for their grain shipped south. As we said last week, the surest means of success is in unity of action, and the farmers cannot do better than to join in advancing this project. Mr. Hartsock is a thoroughly reliable, honest, and upright man, and has only taken hold of this at the earnest solicitation of numerous friends in Bolton Township, who are alive to the necessity of a water outlet for their grain, and he proves his confidence in the practicability of the scheme from the fact that he puts all his own wheat (the product of a hundred acres) in with the rest.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878.

AL. PRUDEN left the flat boat at the mouth of Deer Creek last Thursday noon, and returned home by wagon. He reports the boys are all in good spirits, and having better success every day.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878.

A couple of bold navigators passed down the raging Arkansas last Sunday, bound for Little Rock, and hailing from Dodge City.

[BEAVER CORRESPONDENT: "HORATIUS."]

Winfield Courier, July 25, 1878.

As we have survived another celebration of the day of our National Independence, and the delightful excursion on the "Aunt Sally" on the bosom of the placid Walnut on the 4th, and not perceiving anything special in your columns from this locality since my previous communication of three or four weeks ago, I once more endeavor to note the casualties and progress of this vicinity. Before I proceed any further, allow me to interpose an apology for irregular correspondence, viz: the pressure of business makes it almost impossible for your humble servant to find sufficient time to keep you informed in regard to the doings of this vicinity.

It is unnecessary for me to expatiate on the celebration of the 4th and the steamboat excursion, as the COURIER was strongly represented on that occasion. Our good people enjoyed the steamboat ride with great pleasure and satisfaction, and wish the enterprising people of Arkansas City success in their efforts to make the river navigable.

Winfield Courier, July 25, 1878.

I. H. Bonsall made a good picture of the "Aunt Sally" and her living load of freight, notwithstanding the fact that neither the boat nor the people would hold still a moment. He has our thanks for two copies. Bonsall is one of the finest artists in the state.

Winfield Courier, July 25, 1878.

Henry Pruden and O. J. Palmer started from Salt City down the Arkansas River with 700 bushels of wheat in their boat last week Wednesday. The farmers in that vicinity intend to ship their wheat in that way. David Maricle says he intends to ship the proceeds of his 700 acres of wheat on flat boats.

Arkansas City Traveler, July 31, 1878.

Hon. C. R. Mitchell returned from Little Rock last Friday night, after an absence of about twenty days. It will be remembered that Mr. Mitchell went down the river on the "Aunt Sally," in company with Mr. Harter, of Winfield, to talk up the navigation of the Arkansas with the businessmen of Little Rock, and see what could be done in the way of putting a line of boats on the river between Arkansas City and Little Rock.

On Saturday morning a meeting was called at Pearson's hall to hear his report, and the house was crowded to its utmost capacity.

Mr. Mitchell stated that they found low water among the islands at the mouth of the Salt Fork, and down in the Creek Nation, but that the greatest difficulty in finding a channel lay in the fact that the water was constantly falling, which made it impossible to tell exactly where to go. This is the case in any river where there are sand bars, or where the channel is liable to change. Even below Little Rock, after a rise the boats either wait until the water falls to its natural stage before attempting a trip, or are careful to sound the entire way in order to avoid the bars, as there are numerous "shoots" or false channels created by the water during its fall. Mr. Mitchell further reports that with but little improvement, the river above Fort Gibson is better than below it, except probably in extreme low water, and is navigable the greater portion of the year.

By a system of jetties, the difficulties at the Salt Fork and in the Creek country could be removed with but very little cost, when the river from Arkansas City to Little Rock would furnish better facilities for navigation than the lower portion of the river does.

Arriving at Little Rock, Mr. Mitchell conversed with the businessmen of that place, prominent among whom are C. F. Penzel, Eisenmayer & Co., W. B. Cotton, M. D. Pritchard, Charter & Pfeiffer, and Mr. Geyer. These gentlemen all express a willingness and determination to push the matter, and will invest money in boats next year. Mr. Penzel is a generous, public-spirited man, and will put a thousand dollars in the enterprise, satisfied that the "up-river trade" will be an immense thing for that country. Our wheat will bring from ninety cents to $1.10 per bushel, instead of only seventy-five cents, as has been reported. It is far superior to Texas wheat, the latter being dried and shriveled.

Mr. Mitchell then interviewed the steamboat men with reference to coming up here, but found none willing to make the trip this year, for fear of losing the cotton trade, which commences in September, and furnishes a large business to boats during the winter months. Below will be found a list of boats, whose owners intend sending up in the spring.

In the first place Capt. Lewis says he will be the first one up here, bringing the "Aunt Sally." As our readers are familiar with the boat, no description of it is necessary.

The "Rose City," James Bowlin, captain and owner, is 130 feet long, 30 feet beam; cylinders, 10 in. in diameter and 36 in. stroke; boilers 18 ft. long, 3-1/2 ft. in diameter; draws 10 in. light; will carry 100 tons on 18 in. of water, and 150 tons on 20 inches. Her registered capacity is 250 tons.

The "Big Rock," Captains Brodie and Hattaway, is 119 ft. long, 25 ft. beam; cylinders 9 in. in diameter, 30 in. stroke; boilers 18 ft. long, 38 in. diameter; allowable pressure of steam, 140 pounds; wheel 9 ft. in diameter, 16-1/2 ft. long; Registered 180 tons.

The "Fletcher" is a regular packet plying between Little Rock and Fort Smith, is 135 feet long, 34 ft. beam, and has the strongest power of any boat on this river.

The owners of the above boat have assured Mr. Mitchell that they will positively come up in the spring. In addition to these, a Mr. John Darrow intends sending two or three small boats up, he owning a complete line of them.

Mr. Mitchell then went to St. Louis, to obtain estimates in boat building, and found that many river men of that city were manifesting considerable interest in this project, and who propose sending boats next spring.

In conclusion, we would say that C. R. Mitchell has done all that any man could under the same circumstances. To the objections urged by some, that he knew nothing about the river, we answer that his ignorance was more than equaled by his determination to find out, as is proved by his stripping, and wading the river when they were in search of deeper water. To the slurs and accusations of others, to the effect that he was "bought off," we make no reply, other than they are beneath the notice of a man, and have no weight among the better class of citizens.

Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.

L. C. Harter returned from Little Rock last Saturday evening. We have since interviewed him and now give his account of the trip.

He went from Arkansas City to Little Rock down the Arkansas River on the "Aunt Sally" in twelve days. Some three or four days of this time was spent in laying up and delays which were not necessary had the boat desired to make the trip in as short a time as possible.

The boat went down without any load because the captain had doubts about being able to get through with any loading. The channel was very erratic and difficult to trace. Many times in following what appeared to be the main channel, the boat traced the windings until it ran onto the sand in water not more than six or eight inches deep. They then had to work off and return upstream until they found a better "shute." In each case, however, they succeeded in finding a passage with at least 20 inches of water. The mode of hunting for the best channel was by getting off the boat and wading. Mr. Harter relates some of his exploits in that line.

He thinks the main difficulties of taking down a load at this stage of the water are the snags, which are somewhat dangerous. The sand is not very troublesome, for when they run on a bar they usually work off by the use of the cable and wheel in 15 or 20 minutes. He thinks that if the stage of water was still lower, the channel would be better, more distinctly marked, and much more easily traced than it was when he went down.

The "Aunt Sally" did not come up early enough. Had she come up two weeks earlier, she might have returned with a good load. She is far from being the kind of a boat that should come up here. She draws too much water and is in other ways unsuitable.

Mr. Harter thinks that a boat constructed like one he saw on the river named the "Big Rock" would be much better. It is about 120 feet long and wide in proportion, with engine and machinery on the bottom. He believes such a boat could run up to Arkansas City and take good loads both ways for three or four months in the year. It will draw 10 ½ inches light and 18 inches loaded. At present it would be difficult to get boats of that class to come up to Arkansas City, were the stage of water ever so good, because they are engaged in the cotton trade on the river below.

After awhile the large boats will be up and take this trade from them; and then if the stage of water is right, they will doubtless be glad to come up. Mr. Harter is of the opinion that a steamer of the class he speaks of as the best for this trade could tow six or seven barges, each loaded with about 30 tons, and at the same time carry 50 tons itself.

He says that the Little Rock millers and some steamboat men estimated that a stock company with $14,000 capital could get up and run such a fleet and make it pay. To insure business and interest in the project, they would require that one-third of the stock should be taken in this vicinity; and if that was done, they would venture the other two-thirds. The Little Rock millers will agree to take all the wheat that such a fleet can bring down at ten cents a bushel higher prices than is paid at St. Louis at the same time. If the fleet could make six trips a year, it could take off half a million bushels. Should it only take 300,000 bushels, it would be wonderful help to the farmers of Cowley. The present price of wheat at Little Rock is 95 cents; corn, 65 cents.

Mr. Harter fears that Pruden's flat-boat will not get through and that they will suffer loss. He thinks it would be safer to load a flat-boat with flour because if they should get stuck, there is a market for flour at various places all the way down, the flour could be readily removed from the boat at almost any place and sold, while wheat would be a loss.

Mr. Harter returned by railroad via St. Louis. He is enthusiastic for river navigation and thinks it will be made a success.

[CORRESPONDENT FROM BETHEL: "ORLANDO."]

Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.

Mr. John Anderson, Captain Barker, Peter Paugh, and Mr. Lyons, four of Bethel's most substantial farmers, visited the seaport town of Arkansas City last week to see what arrangements they could make to ship their wheat down the Arkansas River. They went on board the steamboat to interview the captain. They talked and discussed such subjects as finding Symme's Hole and uniting the Atlantic with the Pacific ocean by cutting a canal through the Isthmus of Panama. Our farmer friends finally ventured to ask the captain if he expected to run a steamer between Arkansas City and Little Rock; and if so, what he would load with. The captain said he would, perhaps, load with sugar and molasses seed. The boys left that steamboat sadder if not wiser men. ORLANDO.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.

The people interested should see to it that a boat is put on this river before Congress meets and kept on it while Congress is in session, as this would insure an appropriation of half a million dollars for the improvement of the Arkansas from Gibson or Little Rock to Wichita.

From Hon. Thomas Ryan we learn that the entire Southern delegation in Congress is working for the opening up of the Arkansas River. They realize the magnitude of the trade that will spring up with the success of this project, and they stood by Mr. Ryan to a man in his efforts to secure the appropriation for the survey, which will commence next month.

In view of the many improvements made on Western rivers in the last few years, New York has become aroused on the subject, and seeks to hold a great portion of the trade that is going to Southern markets, by deepening the Erie canal twelve feet, and making it absolutely free--so that one can get bills of lading from Chicago to Liverpool through this canal.

The report of the surveying corps will doubtless determine the appropriation, but keeping a boat on the river, plying between our town and the agencies, would have an immense influence for good.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.

The people of Cowley County, Kansas, are excited just now over the recent trip of a steamboat up the Arkansas River to Arkansas City. They want a line of barges established on the Arkansas River, which flows through one of the most productive portions of the State. They believe, and correctly, too, that if they could make the Arkansas River the outlet for the shipment of their surplus crops, it would be worth millions of dollars to the people of that great valley.

[REPORT FROM "ARCANUM"--BEAVER TOWNSHIP.]

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.

Our farmers are highly jubilant over the prospects of the successful navigation of the Arkansas River. God speed the time when Cowley will no longer be under obligation to pay tribute to the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.

Now that there has been so much said pro and con, concerning the navigation of the Arkansas River, allow your correspondent to say a few words in favor of navigating the "Big Useless," as some call it.

We have heard it stated frequently since the "Aunt Sally" made the trip that her Captain was paid by the A., T. & S. F. R. R. Co. for reporting the trip up the river a failure, and now we hear the same report again concerning this last boat, now on the river.

Now let us look at this matter squarely in the face and see if there is any reason for believing this report. The managers of the above mentioned railroad have already made the statement that they expected to transport over their road the snug little sum of 3,000,000 bushels of wheat from this section of Kansas. Out of that vast amount, I think it fair to state that Cowley County will furnish 500,000 bushels. Let us now see what the railroad will make on this wheat by shipping it over their road, from Wichita to Kansas City, at 16 cents per bushel, the rate charged. The freight on 500,000 bushels of wheat at 16 cents amounts to the sum of $80,000. Now wouldn't it pay them well to keep all other transportation out of the country, if they can possibly do it? Would $10,000 or $12,000 be any great loss to them, as long as they can secure to themselves such a sum of money as that, by expending so little? It is reasonable enough to suppose that the company did do it, whether they did or not. All reading people believe that the A., T. & S. F. R. R. are keeping out all other railroads. If such is the case, they would try to keep boats from navigating the river. If there is reason in one case, there is in the other.

Now that it has been proven that the river can be navigated, why not navigate it? Why not improve the opportunity? It is because we all have a different idea of navigating the river, or of building the boat. If such is the case, let us put our ideas together, and go ahead and do something. We must act, and act together if we intend to make use of this natural outlet for our produce.

If men of capital will not build a boat, let us do it ourselves. Ten farmers of Bolton Township can build a small boat that will take all the surplus grain away, in the county. If you can't go with the boat, there are plenty of good men who will, and one or two of the farmers can go along and see how the selling is conducted.

Don't let us talk anymore, but let us do something. The river can be made to serve us if we will make it. We have only to reach out our hand and catch the prize, or we can stand off and growl like a dog with a sore head, and discourage all who try to do something.

If men of money can't be induced to invest a dollar, because they think they can't make five hundred percent, on their money, let men of brains, "sand" and wheat, come forward and do it.

Let us hear from the wheat-growers, the ones most interested.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.

MR. L. H. GARDNER received a letter from a Mr. Bacon, of South Frankfort, Michigan, who proposes to bring a boat up this river. The dimensions of the boat are 70 feet keel, 20 feet beam, drawing 9 inches light, and 18 in. loaded.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 14, 1878.

BONSAL