[REPORT FROM "BONUS HOMO" AT FLORAL.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 18, 1879. Front Page.
Wheat is looking fine. Mr. McKee is very sick.
Nute Yarbrow and Mr. Goodwell ran thieves from their stables recently.
Mr. D. Read is doing a good business in his store.
Better take a box at the post-office.
The doctor's horse says "neigh" when young ladies attempt to ride him.
The foundation of the new church is laid, and the greater part of the material for the edifice is on the ground. We hope the building may be finished ere many months as the school house is very inconvenient in size and congregations remaining outdoors receive little good preaching.
The Cottingham brothers have received intelligence of their father's dangerous illness, and Mr. John W. and family have gone to Kentucky to visit their parents.
[WIRT W. WALTON.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Wirt W. Walton commences in his new field of operations at Clay Center, the editorial management of the Dispatch, on the first day of January. This paper, under the management of Mr. Campbell, brother of our Judge, has been ably edited, and is one of the best in the state. We think that Wirt will sustain its reputation and add something to its brightness. Mr. Campbell retains a half interest in the paper, but will devote his attention mainly to banking.
[COURIER: NEW OFFICE.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
On Saturday and Monday we succeeded in moving into our new office, and now we have plenty of room and very pleasant quarters. We have not got the rooms entirely fitted up yet, but think we will have them in trim by Christmas. We shall arrange to place our exchanges on file in the office, which will constitute quite a large variety of reading matter and will make an attraction to our friends when they have a spare hour, and we invite them all to avail themselves of this list.
We have to thank our friends throughout the county for their very liberal patronage, and especially the businessmen of Winfield, in that they have enabled us to run the best printing establishment in the state.
If any of our contemporaries doubt this fact, let them call and see. We shall be happy to meet them at any time and show them the elephant. Come and see us, ladies and gentlemen. The basement of the new bank building is not the worst place in Winfield to visit.
[WIRT WALTON: ATTENDS BALL GIVEN BY CAPITAL GUARDS.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
On the evening of the 15th, at Topeka, at a ball given by the Capital Guards, that company was presented with a very heavy silver pitcher elaborately inscribed and ornamented, by the National Temperance Camp Meeting as a Bismarck Grove memorial. Gov. St. John made the presentation address, to which Wirt Walton responded in a happy manner.
[REPORT FROM "GRAPE VINE TELEGRAPH" - VERNON.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Still they come, and there is always room for more. Mr. P. M. Waite's brother and sister are here visiting from Illinois. Also, a brother-in-law of Mr. Rupp, Wm. Powell and son, from Henry, Illinois, who are viewing the country preparatory to purchasing, if satisfied with the inducements offered.
Mr. Kellogg and daughter contemplate a pleasure trip to Chicago. About 25 of our jolly young people met at their residence last week, doubtless for a sweet good-bye, judging from the equestrians of the male persuasion seen going to Winfield for a lb. of candy each.
On going to church a short time ago, we noticed about a dozen Indians on their way to Wichita. Occasionally they stop at our homes. Some of the boys cannot see why they are allowed to traverse the country, as they are not permitted to go down to the Territory to make a raid on nuts, fish, and wood. A nice buffalo robe would suit us pretty well.
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
A fire alarm and a runaway made things lively Saturday evening.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Jap Cochran has resigned his position as foreman of Bliss' mills. He wants to rest.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Mr. G. W. Rogers has purchased the building of A. A. Jackson, on Main street, and will refit and refurnish it and run it as a restaurant.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Last Saturday a farmer was arrested and fined $12.25 for hitching his team to a shade tree on Ninth avenue.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Last Friday night Messrs. Wallis & Wallis had their delivery wagon and team stolen. They offer a reward of $100 for the return of the property.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Closing sale of Millinery at less than first cost for the next thirty days. I will sell felt hats, untrimmed, 25, 50, and 75 cents; felt hats, trimmed, 50, 75, and $1.00. These goods must be sold. MRS. KRETSINGER.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The artillery company is making fine progress with the organization. The influence of Hon. Thos. Ryan has been secured to assist in getting the guns, and the officers are working unceasingly. Winfield, with a company of infantry and one of artillery, will make things "boom" in reality.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The excavation for the buildings of Messrs. Morehouse and Baird Bros. is being pushed forward, notwithstanding the frosty weather.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
A. A. Jackson has sold out his restaurant to George W. Rogers, and will soon take charge as station agent at Barstow, eight miles and a half north of this place, on the railroad. Jackson is enterprising; and will make a good station agent. We wish him success.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Ed. Bedillion does not like to keep his office on wheels, so he has concluded to stick to the courtroom, Manning's opera house, until after the court in January.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Will Allison is bound to have more room. The Telegram is in a crowded condition, and he proposes to move his office into the rooms now occupied by Pryor & Pryor, over Read's Bank; take out the partitions and vault foundation in the basement, and convert the whole room into a printing shop. This will be an improvement. TELEGRAM
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
It is expected that the railroad track will be laid into Arkansas City next week.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
M. L. Bangs has added a new `bus and baggage wagon to the southwestern transfer line at this place.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
On last Friday eighteen car loads of wheat were shipped from Winfield station.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Court adjourned Saturday evening to January 12th, when an extra session will be held.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The plate glass windows for the Winfield Bank have been put in and also the stained transoms.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
C. A. Bliss has shipped several car loads of brick to Wellington during the past week.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
A cooper shop has been started on South Main street in the old blacksmith shop opposite Mater & Son's.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The addition to the Central Hotel is being pushed forward in spite of the inclemency of the weather, as the room is badly needed.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
On Saturday evening the trial of Charles H. Payson was concluded and the court issued an order of disbarment against him.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
George Miller has removed all his meat interests to Main Street and now occupies the stand which he purchased of James Allen. He says his say in another column.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Mr. W. N. Harding, of the firm of Harding & Pence, went back last week to his home in Indianapolis. We are sorry to know that Mr. Harding will not return to Winfield.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
At the council meeting on Monday evening a resolution was passed requesting the Mayor to instruct the Marshal to strictly enforce ordinances against gambling, and to promptly arrest persons violating the same for each offense.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
A very pleasant little dinner party was given by Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor on last Thursday at their pleasnat home on South Manning street.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The city dads propose to pass an ordinance prohibiting boys from playing around in the vicinity of the depot, a violation of which will be a fine or imprisonment against the parents. If enforced this measure will be the means of saving the lives of some of these youngsters.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
A laborer on the A., T. & S. F. road was in town Friday trying to learn the whereabouts of his wife, who had skipped out with another fellow a few days before, taking with her their little son, aged five years. The man seemed to be in a very unhappy state of mind and was swearing vengeance on the guilty pair should anything befall the child. The A., T. & S. F. furnished him a pass over their line of road.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Our enterprising citizen, J. F. Miller, has put up at a cost of $175, a most superb monument at Oxford to mark the last resting place of the late Dr. Coldwell. The base of the monument is of our Winfield marble, worked in Winfield, and is a model of fine work. The shaft is of Italian marble furnished by a firm in Topeka. If any of our citizens want to erect something fine and elegant in this line, they should, by all means, consult with Mr. Miller.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Last Monday a son of Mr. Weeks, living on South Main street, was run over by a freight car, and had his leg badly bruised. He, with other boys, was playing around the track, while the workmen were moving the cars, and in attempting to cross the track in front of them, his foot caught, and he was struck by the car before he could get out of the way. This will, perhaps, be a lesson to the swarm of boys who are continually hazarding their lives by jumping from car to car while the trains are being made up.
[BURDEN: NOTES OF THE NEW TOWN.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Having heard a great deal of talk in regard to the new town of Burden, we concluded to make a visit to that place and see for ourselves. After 10 miles drive through one of the most beautiful and fertile countries we have ever seen, we arrived there. The first thing that impresses one on coming in view of it is the fine location, the site being an elevated piece of prairie, with gradual slope in all directions.
On entering the town we noticed a large pile of rock, and upon inquiring as to what they were for were informed that they were taken from a well which has just been put down. The well is 45 feet deep, and they have struck an abundant supply of the water.
The store of Messrs. Ford & Leonard next engaged our attention. It is built of handsome white limestone, and with its finely-cut stone front and French glass windows makes a store which will put to shame many buildings in many larger and more pretentious towns.
Upon entering we were greeted by the proprietors and their gentlemanly and accommo dating clerks, one of whom, Mr. Tanner, is an old acquaintance of ours, we having known him when he had charge of a large general store in Elk Falls.
Mr. Tim Sullivan, another clerk, has had a large experience in mercantile business in St. Louis. He has full charge of the famous hydraulic, double-acting, brass-beam, anti-cat machine, and takes much pleasure in explaining the workings of the machine to all visitors. Don't forget to ask him for it.
Messrs. Ford & Leonard will put up an elevator, and open a large and complete lumber yard as soon as the railroad reaches the town.
Mr. Johnson of Eldorado, is having his large warehouse moved down, and will soon be ready to buy wheat and corn.
Mr. Hooker's large, two-story stone store is nearly ready for the roof.
A large frame building is being added to, painted, and put in thorough order for a hotel, and as a good landlord has already engaged it, they will soon have that most desirable of all things for a town, a good hotel.
Mr. E. M. Ford is agent of the Town company, and he informs us that many lots have been sold to parties contemplating building in the spring, and we predict a great "Burden Boom" at that time.
The growth of the town has been much retarded by the circulation of reports that no water could be found, and that a station would be located upon Grouse creek, three miles east; but as the first has been stopped by the well, and the second by the definite location of a town on Cedar creek, three miles east of Grouse creek, there will now be nothing to interfere with its very rapid growth.
Success, say we, to Burden.
[ADS FOR FORD & LEONARD: BURDEN]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
If you have anything to sell see Ford & Leonard, and if you want to buy anything, be sure you call at the big stone store in Burden.
If you want anything in the line of dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, hats and caps, ready-made clothing, hardware, queensware, glassware, or tinware, go to Ford & Leonard, Burden.
16 yards of print for $1.00 at Ford & Leonard, Burden.
A good suit of Cassimere for $8.00, at Ford & Leonard.
A good Saxony wool hat for 50 cents, at Ford & Leonard.
Everything in the Notion line, from a toothpick to a seven dollar Doll, at Ford & Leonard, Burden.
Good Cassimere suitings at Ford & Leonard's big stone store, for 25 cents per yard.
A good Canton flannel for 8-1/2 cents per yard at Ford & Leonard's Big Stone Store, in Burden.
Don't forget those fine Wool Shawls, at Ford & Leonard's, in the new town of Burden.
For Table and Pocket Cutlery, go to Ford & Leonard, Burden.
Ford & Leonard will furnish you anything you want in the Hardware line.
Go to Ford & Leonard, in Burden, and get a kit of No. 1 Whitefish for 90 cents.
Go to the big stone store, in Burden, and buy your Cranberries for 12-1/2 cents a quart.
Ford & Leonard will sell you a good Kip boot for $2.25, at Burden.
2 can Oysters, only 20 cents, at the big stone store, Burden.
If you want a set of teas, plates, goblets, coffee-boiler, tin cup, or stove-boiler, or, in fact, anything in the hardware, queensware, glassware, or tinware line, call on Ford & Lenoard, at Burden.
Best Coffee, 4 P for 1$, at Ford & Leonard's, Burden.
A Sugar, 9 P for 1$, at the big stone store, Burden.
All kinds of Dried Fruit at Ford & Leonard's, Burden.
Buy your Paints and Oils of Ford & Leonard, at Burden.
Building Paper at Ford & Leonard's big stone store, in Burden.
If you want to water your "hoss," go to Ford & Leonard, at Burden, and get one of those paper pails, that never leaks nor fails to stand, at Burden.
THERE WERE MORE...I SKIPPED.
[GEORGE MILLER: WINFIELD'S FAVORITE BUTCHER.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
Mr. George Miller has removed from Ninth Avenue and consolidated his shops on Main street. He is refitting and refurnishing the shops throughout, and intends to make his meat market second to none in the country. George, from his long connection with this business in Winfield, has won the confidence and patronage of a large part of our citizens. He furnishes the best meats at the most reasonable prices.
[ADELPHI LODGE, NO. 110: OFFICERS FOR 1880.]
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1879.
The officers of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M., for 1880, are
W. M.: James McDermott.
S. W.: M. G. Troup.
J. W.: E. P. Kinne.
Treas.: C. C. Black.
Sec.: W. W. Perkins.
S. D.: R. C. Story.
J. D.: James Simpson.
S. S.: S. H. Myton.
J. S.: J. C. Roberts.
C.: E. T. Trimble.
T.: S. E. Berger.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "S. E. B." RE BRIDGE BONDS, ETC.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 25, 1879. Front Page.
EDITOR COURIER: In your issue of the 11th inst., under the head of "Bridge Bonds," you say things that are liable to mislead, and with your permission I will give all the facts in the case so far as I known them, and I was connected with the movement from first to last, and ought to know the motives which actuated those whom you are pleased to call "timid citizens."
The reasons for our actions are as follows.
1. Winfield township had built four bridges, issuing bonds and scrip to the amount of $25,000: $5,000 of which was scrip or township orders. (This is not claimed to be the exact amounts, but near enough to illustrate.)
2. Winfield City became a city of the second class, and by the law none but the real estate within the corporate limits of the city could be directly held for the indebtedness of Winfield township, thus leaving all that class of indebtedness known as scrip to be raised by the remainder of the townshipsay about $5,000and assuming that the real estate in the township and the real estate in the city were equal, then the taxpayer in the township would have to pay in addition a tax on his personal property which would make the taxes relatively about as follows.
A, being a citizen of the city, would pay on his real estate $1.00, and on his personal property, $0.00.
B, living in the township, would pay on his real estate $1.00, and on his personal property, $1.00. In addition thereto, B would pay 25 or 50 cents on his real property and 25 cents on his personal property for the purpose of liquidating the $5,000 of township orders.
Thus, they would stand:
A. bond tax: $1.00
B. bond tax: $2.00
B. order tax: $.50
These sums are only approximately correct and would vary only as the relative ratio of the different classes of property within the two corporations varied at the time the proper authorities apportioned the debt to each.
3. There were four bridges to maintain at an annual cost, taking 1878 as a criterion, of about $800, for the use of the whole county. It was useless to think of trying the county for assistance; the township had lost half or more of its taxable property, and was saddled with a heavy bonded debt and a large floating debtwhat could we do but as we did? Here was Vernon township on the west, with a large area of the best agricultural land in the state, and filled with an intelligent, go-ahead class of people that were, per force of location, compelled to use two of these four bridges all the year round. The same remarks are applicable to Pleasant Valley on the south with reference to one of the bridges, except that Pleasant Valley accepted the present of a new bridge with the best possible grace, while Vernon did not seem to appreciate the munificence of the donors in allotting two and a large additional territory to her domain.
4. After having made up our minds, the "coterie" went to work, got up a petition in legal form, made copies, and gave them to friends of the project. The petitions were duly circu-lated, and at the next meeting of the County Commissioners they were presented, and after laying the situation before that honorable body, they saw fit to grant the petition, and created a new township, giving two of the bridges to Vernon, which township by virtue of use ought to by right be compelled to maintain them, one to Pleasant Valley, and leaving one to the new township; thus dividing the cost of maintaining the four bridges among the three townships most interested in their use.
And now, as this article is already too long, I will close with a word as to the manner of circulating those petitions, as that seems to be a great "eye sore." Those who had charge of the project acted upon the principle that you only receive help from friends, and that enemies are at liberty to get all the information they can. This is a world in which all work for their own interests as they understand them, and neither do they publish all their projects broad- cast, but having made up their minds that a certain action is just and would result in bettering their condition, they set about to accomplish it in a legal (if you please) way, and he who says least does most. S. E. B.
[EDITORIAL: AGE OF MILLINGTON.]
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
If the editors of the Eagle and Telegram are particularly anxious about the age of "Grandpa Millington," they are informed that he is fifty-six years old, just one year younger than General Grant, and younger by from one to twenty-five years than any prominent candidate for the presidency, save perhaps one, so if he should run for the presidency next year, he would expect the hearty support of the aforesaid editors, unless, indeed, they are too old to take interest in politics.
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
George Walker came up from the territory last Friday. He looks like a veritable "Texas ranger."
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Seventeen car loads of wheat were shipped from the depot at this place Saturday.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
John D. Maurer, ex-county commissioner, and J. V. Hines, postmaster at Dexter, made our new office a pleasant visit last Friday.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The post office known as "Polo," in the north part of the county, is to be discontinued by order of the P. O. Department at Washington.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Mr. James Vance and A. W. Davis, of New Salem, have purchased the livery stable and stock of A. G. Wilson. Jim Vance is one of the most popular young men in town, an old liveryman, and will undoubtedly catch "the boys." We wish the new firm success.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
NOTICE: The dry goods firm of W. E. Chapman & Co., Newton, Kansas, have taken the agency for E. Butterick & Co.'s celebrated paper patterns. Catalogues mailed free of charge to any address.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The military ball to be given ty the Winfield Rifles, at the Opera House New Year's Eve, promises to be a grand affair. The committee are sparing no pains to make it a success.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The following named gentlemen are the commissioned officers of St. John Battery No. 1, at Winfield. Captain: Eugene E. Bacon; First Lieutenant and Chief of Caissons: N. A. Haight; First Lieutenant of the Line: John F. Burrows; Second Lieutenant Senior: John Hoenscheidt; Second Lieutenant Junior: Geo. W. Anderson. Commonwealth.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
S. H. Myton intends fitting his business house with gas.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Gilbert & Jarvis have completed a handsome insurance Map of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Fifteen bushels of good lime wanted. Enquire at this office.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
John Moffitt has gone to Peoria, Illinois, on business and pleasure.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
E. S. Torrance and E. C. Manning are in New Mexico buying up the mines and railroads.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The city pumps would be very effective in case of fire; provided the fire was started around the pumps.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Mr. A. P. Johnson has bought Frank Gallotti's residence property on 8th avenue.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Frank Shock, the young man who carved Foster at Frank Davis' recently, was admitted to bail last Monday, and is now at liberty.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The upper part of the Maris building back of the stairs is to be thrown into one room for the use of the Odd Fellow's Lodge.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
S. H. Myton has his new addition about ready for business. His hardware store is now the largest south of Topeka, being one hundred and thirty feet deep.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
A. T. Shenneman has sold the Bradish lot to John Witherspoon for $500. Mr. Witherspoon purchased the lot as a site for a livery stable.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
On Tuesday Mr. C. W. Jordan injured himself quite severely while descending the stairs in Baird's store. He cut a large gash in his head, and will be laid up for repairs for some time to come.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Pursuant to the instructions of the Mayor, Marshal Stevens closed all the gambling establishments in the city last week, and the "gentlemen of the green," have been compelled to hunt new fields for their labors.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The eight foot stone sidewalk on 10th avenue, between the Presbyterian church and the Courthouse, has been completed. This gives a first class sidewalk from Main street to the Courthouse.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The railroad has reached Arkansas City. We congratulate our wide awake friends of the seaport. By the way, cannot we have a celebration and go down there and help our neighbors shout.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Tuesday morning J. C. Walters, the restaurant man, stepped into our office and made ye local happy with a can of "extra selects." J. C. knows well how to gain the good grace of a printer man, and that nothing opens his heart so much as the prospect of an oyster fry.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Last week Mr. William Shrieves was thrown from a load of hay, severely fracturing his skull, and for a time it was feared his injuries would result fatally. He was placed under the care of Dr. Wright, and is now recovering slowly.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
A young man by the name of Frank Hay was arrested here, last week, by the Sheriff of Harper county, charged with having a hand in the murder of Prof. Harnest, at Harper, in October. His trial is now in progress at that place.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The Catholics of this city will hold a festival on January 13th, 14th, and 15th to raise funds to finish their church. We do not doubt this will be an enjoyable affair and a grand suc cess, for the Catholics are famous for getting up good festivals.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Last Tuesday W. G. Hodges purchased the Curns store room, being the north room in the union building on North Main street, paying $1900 cash for the same. We understand that Mr. Hodges has rented the building for two years to Brotherton & Silvers for fifty dollars per month.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
The three orders connected with Masonry, together with the Knights of Honor, have decided to have a grand banquet on Thursday evening, the 25th, at Manning's Hall. At that time a Public Installation of the officers of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M., will take place. Every preparation is being made to make this the finest entertainment of kind ever given in Southern Kansas.
[T. W. HUGHS: ANOTHER THIEF CAUGHT.]
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
We learn from the Emporia News of last week of the arrest of one T. W. Hughs, who for some time peddled pianos and organs in this and Sumner county. It appears that he had committed peculations while in the employ of Messrs. Fox & Co., of Emporia to the amount of over fifteen hundred dollars, and then left the country. After a most diligent search he was arrested in Arkansas, and is now lying in jail at Emporia.
He had mortgaged the team, wagon, and harness, which belonged to Fox & Co., to James Dewar of Eldorado, for $120; had sold a sample organ that cost $169 for $55 cash; sold another for $100; another for $65; sold a mare which the firm was having kept in the country, which cost $55, for $35, taking therefor a note payable to Fox & Co., and had sold the note to the Winfield bank, forging the endorsement; had made and forged a note on B. S. Phillips, of Oxford, for $250, on which he secured a loan of $75 from L. Gower, of Douglass, Butler County; forged a note on H. T. Dally of Belle Plaine, Kansas, for $175, which he left as se- curity for a livery bill at Douglass; had forged a note for $90 on T. Walker, of Goldore, Cowley county, which he sold to James Dewar, of Eldorado. He collected $147 of B. S. Phillips, of Oxford; $117.15 from J. J. Benepe, of Douglass, and $100 from Emeline True, of Douglass. This is the fellow who married Jessie True, of Douglass, for some time a page in the House of Representatives.
[MARRIED: ROSEBERRY/HOSTUTTLER.]
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1879.
Married at the residence of C. J. Brane, Pleasant Valley, Dec. 21st, 1879, by Rev. J. A. Rupp, Mr. Cassius Roseberry, and Miss Hattie Hostuttler, of Pleasant Valley.
[REPORT FROM "ALEXANDER" OF OMNIA.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Mr. E. A. Henthorn, of this township, received notice this week from Washington of his appointment as post master at Burden. He and his brother, A. N., have formed a partnership and will immediately establish a real estate, insurance, and loan agency at Burden.
We hear talk of naming the new town on Cedar creek "Grumble." Correct! Stand up again.
[CORRESPONDENT "VERNON" REPLIES TO S. E. B. COMMUNICATION.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
ED. COURIER: A communication signed S. E. B. in your issue of Dec. 25th, seems, under the circumstances, to require a few words of comment from someone. The writer sets out with the assertion that "in your issue of Dec. 11th, under the head of "Bridge Bonds," you say things liable to mislead."
He may have proved this charge to his own satisfaction, but no one reading his article would be able to perceive how. On the contrary, his statement of "facts" (already patent to everyone who has examined the subject), and the complications growing out of the action taken on these facts, more than justify your editorial in every essential particular.
The argument he makes to justify the course pursued, amounts to simply this: That himself, and a few others, becoming restive under a burden they had voluntarily assumed in the past, with full knowledge of the contingencies that might arise in the future, resolved to shift the same to other shoulders, by any means, fair or foul, so that it might be "legal," (if you please.)" In doing this, he has but used the means that have done "Yeoman's service" in plastering over the acts, and soothing the conscience, of every wrong doer since the days of Cain. Selfish interest, caprice, and passion are potent influences, and have swayed the minds and warped the judgment of greater men than those engaged in the "Gift" conern of which we complain.
The light in which the people of Vernon regard this matter is about this: If Winfield city and township, first settled, and possessing superior advantages, think that it will best serve and advance their interests to vote bonds and build bridges, thus attracting trade and travel; well, it is their undoubted right to do so, and displays commendable enterprise in their own behalf and public spirit as well.
And if the people of Vernon township, exercising their own judgment and from motives of prudence, prefer to suffer some inconvenience for a time rather than add to present embarrassments by building bridges, decline to do so, who shall say that it is not their undoubted right to so decide?
And if the people of Vernon object to accepting such responsibilities, on what rule of law or equity does S. E. B. base the right to "compel" such acceptance.
The people of Vernon township are not deficient in public spirit, nor do they lack enterprise, governed by prudence; but the remarks of S. E. B. on that point must be slightly ironical. There is a manifest lack of intelligence somewhere "there anent," and a disclaimer on his part at once convicts him of insincerity. Had this matter been gotten up in an open, manly manner, and on the principle that "it takes two to make a bargain," and after a fair hearing had been decided against us, whatever we might have thought, there would have been no opposition made.
But done as it was, by a few parties in the furtherance of their own selfish interests, and utterly regardless of the means employed to effect their purpose, we think we have good reason to object and shall not very soon cease to do so. VERNON.
[MORE DISTRICTS SUBMIT SCHOOL REPORTS.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
ED. COURIER: Seeing in your paper reports from several of the districts in the country, I concluded to send you the report of district No. 81 for the month ending Dec. 23d. No. of days school was in session, 17; No. of pupils enrolled, 32; average daily attendance, 23. The following are the names of those whose average standing at our last examination was 90 and upward.
Kate Martin: 95
Maggie Martin: 93
Ed. Kinnaman: 90
Belle Martin: 92
John Olmstead: 92
George Hopkins: 90
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The following are the names of scholars in district 48, who have an average standing of 90 percent, and upwards, in scholarship, deportment, and attendance, for the month ending Dec. 19th, 1879.
Anna McClung: 98
Virgil Taylor: 96
John Hess: 94
Charley McClung: 93
Godfrey Ward: 91
Rush McClung: 90
Mollie Taylor: 90
Arcadia Taylor: 90
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
George Miller has just put an elegant counter in his meat market.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
E. S. Torrance returned from his New Mexico trip last week.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Read's Bank is fencing in its bookkeepers with an additional railing.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The keno men who were so summarily fired out of Winfield have taken refuge in Arkansas City.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Ed. Bedilion is talking of moving the District Clerk's office into the upper story of the new bank building.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
On Saturday, Ed. Walker pretty well cleaned out the balance of the B. E. Johnston bankrupt stock at auction sale.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Mr. Frank Greer, one of the clerks at Baird Bros., starts for a visit in the north part of the State Thursday morning.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Hon. J. W. McDonald, and family, and Miss Emma Thompson, spent several days last week in Wichita as guests of Judge and Mrs. Campbell.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Rev. C. J. Adams and wife left here on Christmas Day for their new home at Crystal Lake, Illinois. The best wishes of their numerous friends go with them.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
R. L. Walker rushed in upon us last Saturday evening, and as quickly disappeared. He is so full of business that he cannot stay long in a place. The Walker boys have sold their farm over toward Oxford, for $1,800.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Mr. Sadler has opened a large stock of clothing and gent's furnishing goods in the old Boyle building. Mr. Sadler is an old hand at the business, buys goods cheap and sells them cheaper.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Last Tuesday the C. S. & F. S. railroad company received its second installment of Cowley county bonds, $50,000, the amount due on the completion of the road to Arkansas City. This makes the total amount issued to that company $128,000.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Wirt W. Walton has been appointed Adjutant First Regiment Kansas State Militia. Wirt evidently has not read Prentis' squib on the "average militiaman," or he wouldn't be so rash about throwing himself among the dangers that beset their paths.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The "accommodation" train is becoming proverbial for its slowness; so much so, that an old lady en route from Wichita to Winfield last week, upon the appearance of darkness mildly asked conductor Simmons if "he would be kind enough to inform her where they would camp that night."
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Geo. Melville has appeared again upon our streets looking better than ever. He seems to have abandoned his Leadville mines for the present, while arctic winter reigns there supreme, to enjoy the mild climate of this Italy of America. George has sold out about $25,000 of his mining stock for cash in hand, but he has a plenty more of same sort. Boyle and Melville have made a very remarkable mining campaign, and their good fortune is due to good judgment, perseverance, and work.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The marble monument which has attracted so much attention at Oxford, which was erected by J. F. Miller, of this city, was furnished by P. Geraughty, of Leavenworth, who has probably the most extensive marble shop in the State, and which does the finest work. With the fine stone from our Winfield quarries for bases, and such fine work as he procures from Geraughty for the upper works, Mr. Miller is likely to work a revolution in that line for this vicinity.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Miss Capps is over from Wellington spending the holidays with Mrs. W. P. Hackney.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The moulder for the foundry of Clark & Dysert has arrived, and the foundry will soon be in operation.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
A large amount of flour is being shipped from here to points in New Mexico and Colorado.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The ice men have been reaping a rich harvest for the past few weeks. Ice to the thickness of seven inches has been taken out, and every available house filled with it.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The counters for the Winfield Bank are being put in and are certainly the finest in any bank in the country. They are of solid black walnut, paneled, and surmounted by a two-foot wire screen.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The S. K. & W. road would gain much in the estimation of the people of Winfield and Cowley county if its contractors were a little higher in the plane of morality. The class of thieves and blacklegs at present operating in this county under its management could be improved upon without much effort.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The Winfield Bank is now moved from its "one horse" frame building into its new and magnificent building on the corner. If you cannot find the place, please remember that it is over the COURIER office. The internal structure, fixtures, and furniture of the bank are more magnificent than even its outward appearance would indicate.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
M. G. Troup has secured one of the offices in the new bank building, and is completing his arrangements to step down and out and into a first-class law practice after the 12th day of January. His intimate knowledge of titles, together with his clear and concise ideas of law will soon place him in the foremost rank of attorneys at our bar.
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
A Mrs. Hanson, wife of a well-to-do German farmer, living about ten miles southeast of this place, was arrested by Marshal Stevens last week for stealing goods from the counters and front of various dry goods stores in town. After her arrest the wagon was searched and a flour sack full of stolen articles was recovered. Our merchants have for some time missed various articles, and the Marshal has had an eye open for "shop-lifters." Mrs. Hanson begged piteously to be allowed to "go home to her babies," and was released on $300 bail. Her husband owns considerable property, and raised a large crop of wheat this year.
[BOLD THIEVES: RHONIMUS AND HIRED MAN.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Mr. Rhonimus, proprietor of the "North end meat market," and a hired man, Henry, were arrested last week for stealing cattle. It seems that these gentlemen, in order to make the meat business as profitable as possible, have for some time been systematically stealing the beeves that supplied their market. It has been known among the stock men of this and Elk counties for some time that thieves were operating among their herds, and the matter was placed in the hands of Sheriff-elect Shenneman, who shadowed the above-named gentlemen, and at last caught them killing one of the missing beeves near the fair ground and promptly arrested them. Mr. Jones, of Windsor, has lost fourteen head of cattle by these depredations, and parties on the line of Elk county have missed as many more. It seems that the gentlemen were not partial as to the kind of meat taken, and sometimes stepped aside from their regular line of business to gobble a hog or two, and sometimes three, from the large herds of W. J. Hodges, at the stock yards, near the depot.
A preliminary trial was held before Justice Buckman, last Friday, but the case was continued till this week, and the prisoners remanded to jail in default of bail.
[BLACKLEGS: S. K. & W. RAILROAD CONTRACTORS.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
The bold and daring manner with which the contractors on the S. K. & W. railroad have been attempting to beat our merchants out of the money due them for goods advanced on time checks brand them as thieves and rogues of the first water. The indignation of our citizens is justly excited against them, which, if these matters are not fixed up in some manner will work incalculable damage to the road. Everything seems to indicate that the scheme was premeditated and concocted for the special purpose of beating everybody out of every possible cent that could be extorted from them, and not from the miscalculation of contractors who took the work too low and were not able to pay out. The chief complaints seem to be laid to Corrigan, the principal contractor, through whose hands the money for the work had to pass, and whose duty certainly was to see that the debts of the sub-contractors were settled, and that they then received the balance. This was the course pursued by the chief contractor on the A. T. & S. F. road, every cent of indebtedness having been paid before the final settlement with the sub-contractors was made.
Suits are now pending against Corrigan and others for about $10,000.
We would advise our Sumner county exchanges to pass these fellows around and thereby put their people on their guard should the same game be attempted in that county.
[NEW YEAR RECEPTIONS.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880..
Mrs. W. C. Root, at her residence, corner of Millington and Sixth Sts., assisted by Misses Mattie and Jennie Coldwell.
Mrs. M. L. Robinson, on Mencrest, between Twelfth and Blanden, assisted by Misses Ella Holmes, Sarah Hodges, and Allie Klingman.
Mrs. Brown, on Elm Row, assisted by Mrs. Dr. Black and Mrs. E. P. Hickok.
Miss Maggie Dever, at the residence of J. M. Dever, on the corner of Millington and Tenth sts., assisted by Misses Jennie Hane and Clara Brass.
Mrs. J. C. Fuller, on Fuller and 10th sts., assisted by Mrs. A. T. Spotswood and Misses Jessie Millington and May Roland.
Mrs. Dr. Emerson, corner Eleventh and Fuller sts., assisted by Miss Jessie Meech.
Mrs. J. W. McDonald, corner Sixth and Manning sts., assisted by Miss Emma Thompson.
Mrs. J. E. Platter, on Fuller st., between 9th and 10th sts., assisted by Miss Nettie McCoy.
Mrs. W. P. Hackney, corner Millington and 12th sts., assisted by Miss Minnie Capps.
Mrs. B. F. Baldwin, 7th street, between Millington and Loomis sts., assisted by Mrs. Geo. A. Rhodes.
Mrs. C. A. Bliss, at her residence, corner of 10th and Fuller sts., assisted by Miss Allie Bull and Miss Celina Bliss.
Mrs. O. H. Herrington, at her residence, corner of 6th and Manning sts., assisted by Miss Ella Hodges and Miss Allie Herrington.
[JUDGE GANS: WATCHING A JUDGE.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
On Christmas eve a couple called at the residence of Judge Gans to be married, and the judge proceeded to perform the ceremony, but whether in his judicial or clerical capacity we are not informed. Be that as it may, during the performance a goodly number of other persons headed by Treasurer Bryan, filed in and stood witnessing the proceedings, and Rev. Gans, supposing that they were present only to witness the marriage, after tying the knot, dismissed the congregation. "But hold on, Mr. Gans," said Bryan, "we have got something to say to you. We have been watching you for some time in your daily walk, as our pastor, and we have concluded that you need watching. We have therefore come here on purpose to watch you." During this speech the judge was searching over the leaves of memory to discover what he had done to deserve a reprimand from his parishioners, but his surprise was not less when the speaker produced a heavy and beautiful watch and chain of superb workmanship which he presented to the judge. We failed to get a report of the speech of Judge Gans on the occasion, but he intimates that he was just then taken with such a swelling of the throat that his speech would not come out except at his eyes.
[DEATH OF AN OLD SETTLER: JUDGE T. B. ROSS OF WALNUT TOWNSHIP.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Just as we go to press we learn with pain of the death of Judge T. B. Ross, of Walnut township, in this county. Judge Ross was, we believe, the first settler in Cowley county, and the only man who dared to remain when the Indians drove out the few settlers in the fall of 1869. He has been a prominent and highly respected citizens of this county ever since, and had arrived at the ripe age of eighty-four, preserving his faculties in an eminent degree to the last. The immediate cause of his death was a violent cold.
[CORRESPONDENCE FROM "SIMON" AT ROCK.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The stone work of the Walnut Valley Presbyterian Church, two miles north of Little Dutch, is completed. The last rock was layed at half past four yesterday by Archie Stewart, of Winfield. They have worked faithfully to accomplish their ends. There was Rev. Graham riding north, south, east, and west drumming up money and material, and Coon with his water wagon, cold or hot, wet or dry, has stuck to his post. The neighbors are highly delighted with the building. We think it has the best walls for a church building in Southern Kansas, and that is saying a good deal for the builder, Archie Stewart. The lumber is on the ground for the roof and the carpenters were to commence work this morning. We must say something about the building committee. It is the first time that we ever saw a church built by subscription that the workmen were not delayed. But not a moment were they delayed by anything but cold weather. The people of the vicinity are to be praised for their faithfulness and courage in the cold weather, in drawing material, and last but not least, is our well- known boarding bosses, R. Hanlan and others, who have discommoded themselves to accommodate the workmen. Now one word to the committee. We will tell their names: Rev. Graham, Messrs. Coon, and Larkins. May prosperity follow them through this world and may they have better care in the next is our wish. We board at home and live at the same place. SIMON.
[RAILROAD MEETING: VALVERDI, WALTON, AND BOLTON TOWNSHIPS.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
A meeting of the citizens of Valverdi, Walton, and Bolton townships was held at Salt City, on the 27th of December, 1879, to take into consideration the subject of a railroad from some point to that place. The meeting was called to order by A. W. Burkey, and organized by the choice of T. C. Fernald for president and James M. Woodbury for secretary.
After a careful discussion of the subject, a committee of three, consisting of Messrs. Woodbury, Snyder, and Davis, representing the towns above named, were chosen to correspond and personally confer, if necessary, with railroad officials asking for a survey of the route from Winfield or Oxford to a point at or near the salt and mineral springs near Salt City. Thence south or southwesterly, if it should be deemed practicable, to the north boundry of the Indian Territory. The committee has power to invite propositions from any railroad company, and confer with town authorities relating to the issue of bonds. Also, the authority to call future meetings in towns above named. T. C. FERNALD, Pres.
J. M. WOODBURY, Sec'y.
[SOME WINFIELD STREET CROSSINGS "MAN TRAPS."]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
We do not propose to assume the role of chronic grumbler, nor do we intend to call our city government hard names because we think something is not done as it should be. We suppose that they are acting their own judgment of what is the best interests of the city.
We now wish to call their attention to the crossings of Loomis street on the south side of 9th and the north side of 10th avenues. These crossings we pronounce "man traps" of a very serious character. They are located in the low place known as "the slough" next west of the courthouse block. The owners of lots along the south side of 9th and north side of 10th avenues have at considerable expense, graded up two or three feet, and constructed stone flag sidewalks eight feet wide up to Loomis street on each side. The city has connected these walks with a stingy crossing, only four feet wide. At the ends of the eight foot walks next to Loomis street are deep ditches which the city has bridged with flag stones only four feet wide, so that a person coming along the eight foot walk must travel in the middle of it or run into the ditch on one side or the other of the four foot bridge.
There is constant danger, in the night, of plunging off the ends of these 8 feet walks into a muddy ditch three feet deep, and even in the day-time, a blind man, or one whose thoughts are busy with some other subject, is liable to go down.
Now we want to ask the city authorities of this enterprising city of Winfield to remedy this evil at once, by at least making the ditch bridges eight feet wide. They tell us that these bridges are as wide as those along Main street. Well, what has that to do with it? The only question to consider is: Are the crossings on Loomis street sufficient for the situation? If not, they should be made so. If the crossings along Main street are sufficient, all right; but if not, they should also be made sufficient.
[COURT DOCKET.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the adjourned December, 1879 term of the district court, beginning on Monday, the 15th day of January, 1880.
State vs. Frank Schock.
State vs. Daniel O'Leary.
State vs. Fames Fahey.
State vs. Charles H. Payson.
AMONG THE CIVIL DOCKETS....
C. C. Harris vs. Sanford Day et. al.
C. C. Harris vs. J. B. Lynn.
W. H. H. Maris vs. T. W. Gant et. al.
James Kelly vs. Frank Manny.
T. C. Bird vs. H. C. Merrick et al.
J. A. Myton vs. S. H. Myton et. al.
Hackney & McDonald vs. T. E. Reed.
J. L. Burkey vs. A. T. & S. F. R. R. Co.
MANY MORE...I SKIPPED.
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Court meets Monday in Manning's Hall.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Fred Hunt is "taking lessons" in the County Clerk's office, preparatory to taking charge of the clerical work.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Herman Jochems leaves this week for a visit to friends in Leavenworth.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The firm of Brown & Glass has been dissolved, Mr. Glass retiring, and Messrs. Brown & Son continuing the business.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
L. H. Hope has closed up his business at this place, and James G. Hope, his father, has taken charge of the balance of the stock.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Swain & Watkins have completed plans in detail for J. B. Lynn's new business building. They are first-class and reflect credit on the architects.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Henry, one of the cattle thieves, was tried last week and bound over to the District Court. Rhonimus' trial was postponed to the 23rd inst.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The school-house in district 53, Bolton township, was struck by lightning not long since, and the school stopped one week for repairs.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Prof. Farringer has three fine pianos which will be sold cheap for cash. They can be seen at his music rooms on South Main street.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
C. W. Jordan started Sunday morning for Las Vegas, New Mexico. He will remain there several months and return during the summer.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Chas. Bahntge and lady returned last Saturday evening, and will take up their residence among us. Mr. Bahntge has been engaged as assistant bookkeeper in Read's bank.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Ed. G. Cole, during his recent visit East, purchased the finest prescription scales in the market. One pair is so delicately constructed that one-twentieth of a gram can be weighed.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The contractors on the excavation for the new building next to Bliss & Co.'s, must be men of indomitable perseverence. They stop for neither cold nor wet, but keep digging away in spite of the weather.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Major Thompson has purchased the Winfield Restaurant from Mr. Hitchcok. This is one of the neatest and pleasantest places in the city, and under the management of Mr. Thompson, will soon be a popular resort.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
J. F. Miller is a success with trees. On Tuesday he hauled through town a wagon load of trees from ten to fifteen feet tall, dug up on the river bank for transplanting to several front yards about town.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The residence of C. A. Bliss was the scene of a pleasant social gathering on New Year's evening. A large number of their friends were present, and several hours were spent in conversation, music, and in disposing of the splendid line of refreshments prepared.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Major H. W. Lewis, one of the principal bankers of the Great City of Wichita, gave us a call last Monday. He is an enterprising, successful businessman, whom Wichita could not well spare, but it will not be strange if he should move to the live town of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
George Miller is an artist in the decorating line. New Year's day he had his shop trimmed with evergreens and festooned with Bologna sausages till it looked as tempting as a millinery shop. He even went so far as to draw a crayon portrait of the "Village Parson" with which to adorn the walls.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The Hawkeye man says that lightning doesn't strike twice in the same place. While he is good authority on most subjects, he is "off wrong" on this. A Mr. Newton Wilson, living in Maple township, has a stone stable, which has been struck three times by the lightning. A couple of miles south of this stable is a stone quarry which has been struck by lightning some five or six times within the last two or three years.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Died. Captain A. A. Buck, who lately moved to this place from Cleveland, Tennessee, died at his residence last Sunday evening. His death, which was caused by consumption, is deeply mourned by a large circle of friends. The funeral took place from the Methodist church and was participated in by the Winfield Rifles, in token of respect for the brave soldier and honorable man. He leaves a wife and five children.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
For some time Deputy Finch has suspected that the prisoners in the jail were working to make their escape, and last Sunday evening he "laid for them" and discovered them drilling the bolts which hold the door. They had filed the cavities where they had been drilling with soap and blackened it with coal dust to look like the bolt head, and were only waiting for a favorable opportunity to make their escape.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Our young friend, Chas. E. Fuller, goes into the Winfield Bank as bookkeeper. He is a young man of unexceptional habits and an accomplished bookkeeper. It is a good place for him and we doubt not he will please his employers.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The artillery company was mustered into service by Lieutenant Kretsinger, A. A. G., Saturday evening. Capt. Bacon has received word that six guns and cassons have been shipped by the government direct from Washington to the company and that the side arms will be shipped from Fort Riley soon.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Quincy A. Glass, late of Brown & Glass, will in a short time open a drug store in the Martin building, next to Aubuchon's. He started east on Tuesday to purchase his stock. Mr. Glass is one of our most popular druggists and will be followed to his new quarters by many of his old customers.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mrs. Hanson, whose arrest we spoke of last week, was tried before Judge Boyer last Friday. She plead guilty, begged the leniency of the court, and was fined $25 and costs. This should be a warning to several other parties who are suspected of a like offense, and who, if detected, may not escape so easily.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Joel Mason, of Pleasant Valley, is one of our model farmers, and has demonstrated the fact that money can be made off of any farm in Cowley county, if gone at in the right manner. He is at present turning the proceeds of this year's wheat crop into a commodious barn and will in the spring begin the erection of a large addition to his dwelling.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Mr. Will R. Stivers, one of Winfield's brightest young men, left last week for Topeka, where he has accepted a position in State Supt. Lemmon's office. Will has been Deputy County Clerk for over six years.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The Arkansas City Democrat published an account of the discovery of gold bearing quartz in immense quantities about two miles from that place. We do not see what is the use of inventing such frauds. Is it possible that anyone is found fool enough to actually buy any land in the vicinity for more than it is worth because of the gold or silver story? What good will a temporary rush of visitors do when you know that they will be disappointed, and go away cursing the place and neighborhood?
[MARRIED: IRA McCOMMON AND NINA JOHNSON.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Married at the residence of the bride's mother, on New Year's eve, by Rev. J. E. Platter, Mr. Ira McCommon and Miss Nina Johnson.
[WINFIELD RIFLES: THE MILITARY BALL.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
New Year's eve the Winfield Rifles held their first grand military ball, which was even more successful than the most sanguine of the members anticipated. The hall was tastefully decorated with flags, with the stage arranged to represent a company encampment. The crowd in attendance was immense, over a hundred tickets being sold.
At 12 o'clock an election for "Daughter of the Regiment" was announced, which was the most exciting feature of the evening. Five ladies were placed in nomination, and after a lively contest of half an hour, the friends of Miss Clara Brass carried the day and their favorite was declared "Daughter of the Regiment." The receipts of the entertainment amounted to two hundred dollars.
[A SUGGESTION: PURCHASING A FARM FOR PAUPERS.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Would it not be a matter of economy for the county commissioners to purchase a farm, somewhere in the neighborhood of the county seat, on which to keep the paupers that the county is compelled to support? The present system is a disgrace to the community, besides being a great expense to the county. By buying a good farm, erecting suitable buildings, and placing the whole in the hands of some good man, as superintendent, the institution would soon become self-supporting. With the advent of railroads, pauperism is largely on the increase, and before long, the cost of keeping them will be no small item.
[REVIEWING NEW YEAR'S DAY.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The liveliest crowd we encountered during the rounds was the "Pickwick Club." Their immense pasteboard cards, embellished with "original photographs" of the members, with the inimitable Nat. Snyder as "Mr. Pickwick," was the talk of all we met. Taken altogether, this was the biggest day, socially, Winfield has ever seen. It may be said, greatly to the credit of the ladies receiving, that no wines were served, and that no disturbances occurred to mar the pleasures of the day.
[REPORT FROM "PLANTUS" AT BURDEN.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Ford & Leonard have completed the well of which we have heard so much, and now have an abundant supply of water for man and beast.
Mr. Hooker's fine two story stone building is about completed and will be filled with drugs about the first of February.
A substantial frame building, two stories, has just been completed on Main street, and will be occupied in a day or two by Mr. McCumber, who will furnish board and lodging to the weary traveler or gentleman resident.
Workmen are engaged on the hotel building to be completed in ten days. This building is a frame, 25 feet front and 70 feet deep, and will be occupied as soon as completed by a competent "Landlord," and supplied with all that is required to make it a first class hotel.
Messrs. Cunningham & Lane are doing a lively business in their restaurant and confectionery. They are preparing to build a large stable and put in a stock of fine horses and carriages to do a first class livery business.
Mr. E. A. Henthorn is putting the lumber on his lots for building the post office, in connection with which he will conduct a real estate and insurance business.
We notice the arrival from Eldorado of the elevator owned by Mr. Johnson, who will be ready in a few days to buy all the wheat in Cowley county. Mr. Johnson will erect corn bins sufficient to take care of all the surplus corn to be found.
Mr. E. M. Ford, agent for Burden town company, is selling a great many lots on which houses will be built as soon as the winter weather will admit.
Mr. West will erect a large stone building on the corner of Main and Fifth streets and put in a large stock of dry goods.
Ford & Leonard have contracted for a stone building duplicate of the one now occupied by them, and will put in a large stock of hardware, stoves, and agricultural implements.
[REPORT FROM "RUDY" IN SALT CITY.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Mr. Berkey has built a warehouse in the rear of his store, to make room for more goods. Still his room looks as full as ever, thus showing the increase in his trade.
Mr. Holloway has worked up a good trade and is selling good goods at fair prices.
Mr. Berkey has also put in a pair of hay and stock scales to accommodate those who visit the springs and gain in flesh so rapidly as to be unable to weigh on the ordinary kind.
A new building has also been erected opposite the Salt City Hotel, and furnishes the public with hot meals, as well as fresh meat, by small or large quantities, being what is commonly called in the west a combination "restaurant and meat market."
Mitchell & Newman still continue to bring forward material for the improvement of the springs, and whenever the weather will permit, are at work.
Mr. Royal has returned from his trip to Indiana, where he has been for several weeks. He reports everything "booming."
Mr. Furgeson and wife, of Goschockton, Ohio, are here visiting their relatives, Messrs. Abram and Isaac Shurtz. The latter has been suffering of late with rheumatism.
Robert Mills will shortly move his command to his farm, where he intends to make a vigorous campaign against sunflowers, etc. But his place will be filled, in name at least, by another mill, to be built and operated by a Mr. Flemming. Work is to begin at once and the mill to be in running order by March 1st, 1880. The buhrs to be a new invention in the line of wind mills, said to have greater capacity than anything of the kind ever manufacturered.
The railroad meeting appointed a committee Dec. 27th to confer with the railroad officials with regard to the matter of running a line through here and on to the line of the state.
District 79 has built a school-house and have a full, interesting school now in operation, under the management of Mr. Sam. Gilbert.
[MINES NEAR DEXTER.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Someone has handed in the following assay of ores said to have been taken from new discovered mines near Dexter. We did not see the person who handed it in, and have no knowledge of the matter. As is probably well known by this time, we do not believe there are gold or silver mines in this county. The way to get gold and silver here is to raise wheat, stock, and other farm produce.
This is to certify that we have made careful assays of the ore you left with us by S. N. Harden and find it to yield to the ton of ore as follows in silver and gold.
No. 1, small lot silver 1/4 oz. 1.16 ........... $ .87
No. 1, small lot gold 1/4 oz. 20 ................ $5.00
Total value No. 1: $5.87
No. 2, large lot silver, 1-1/4 oz. 1.16 ........ $1.45
No. 2, large lot gold, 1/2 oz. 20 ................ $6.66
Total value No. 2: $8.11
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
The S. D. Oliver farm, west of town, has been sold to Mr. S. D. Perry, of Ohio.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Mr. R. R. Phelps, the accommodating clerk at Giles Bros., is making arrangements to go into the drug business at Burden.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Bliss & Co., last week, sold their store building and lot to Mrs. Linticum for $1,575. The former owners hold possession until the first of May.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Mr. Will Root, our popular boot and shoe man, has been absent for several days, visiting his parents at Independence.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Ed. G. Cole has purchased the building now occupied by the Golden Eagle clothing house, of J. C. Fuller, paying therefor $2,200.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Simpson & Fowler have about completed their elevator, and will be running at the rate of a car-load an hour in a short time.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
W. W. Perkins, esq., att'y., etc., can "whip his weight in wild cats," and the one which came singly to steal his chieckens "stood no show."
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Our local left for Topeka Tuesday morning. He goes as a delegate from the Winfield Rifles to the military convention which convenes at that place on Wednesday.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Court convened Monday, and Judge Campbell not being able to be present until Wednesday, the members of the bar elected J. Wade McDonald Judge pro tem, and proceeded with business.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Tell W. Walton came over from Sumner last Tuesday and gave us a call. These Waltons naturally gravitate towards a printing office.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Read Robinson, who likes traveling too well to confine his usefulness to any one city, is in Winfield inspecting the banking business of the Read's and Robinson's.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Messrs. Hackney & McDonald on last Monday purchased Col. Alexander's office property on Ninth avenue. They will fit the upper story up for their office. They have also purchased Dan. Miller's property on South Main street.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Col. McMullen left on the 3 o'clock train Monday morning for Kansas City. He will be absent several weeks and will take in Denver during his rounds. Miss Nellie and Master Robbin accompanied him.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
The people of Little Dutch are making an effort to have their school graded, and Prof. Story was up last week looking after the matter. The district contains 76 scholars, and the present room is insufficient to accommodate them.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
CAPT. C. L. HARTER has vacated the office of Sheriff of this county, in which position he has served for two years with honor and urbanity. These qualities he will transfer to the Central Hotel, and add to its already wide popularity.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
The army is well represented at Topeka this week. Gen. Green, Captains Bacon aand Steuven, Lieutenants Finch, Friend, Hoenscheidt, Greer, and Crapster represent the troops stationed at Winfield. In case war is declared before they return, they will go right in and not wait for the consent of their wives and sweethearts.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
W. A. Lee is taking time by the forelock. He proposes to supply the reapers of this county for the year 1880 and has made arrangements for the best to be had in unlimited numbers, viz., the Empire and Excelsior, and he now comes before the farmers to inform them of these facts.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
W. M. Sleeth retires from the office of County Commissioner, in which he has served his county faithfully and efficiently. His own district has been especially well represented. He will now partake of the business prosperity of his town and county, which he has done much to promote, and we wish him abundant business and success.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
We are informed that Ed. Holloway and Ed. Lemmon have gone to Salt City to run Baird Bros.' store in that place. They are bright, active, reliable young men.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
We desire to call the attention of our readers to the new ad in this issue of Mr. B. Sadler, of the Famous Clothing House, in O. F. Boyle's building on South Main street.
DID NOT BOTHER WITH AD...JUST PLAYS UP CLOTHING FOR MEN!
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
From all accounts the boarders at the Hotel de Finch are getting a little unruly. Last Saturday evening they took pieces of wood and plugged up the padlocks to the cells so they could not be locked in. The result was that deputy Finch had to sit up all night in order to keep his birds caged.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Last Saturday Sheriff Shenneman returned from Missouri, bringing with him a horse and a mule stolen from Mr. Robinson, of Floral, recently. He received news of the theft while traveling in the east part of the county, and immediately started in pursuit. When A. T. goes for stolen property, it generally comes.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Last Saturday the Southwestern Machine works drew off the first blast from their new furnace, and cast the first metal in the history of Cowley county, within its limits. They are highly pleased with the working of their furnace and are satisfied that they can turn out casting equally as good as can be had at Atchison or Leavenworth.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
We are informed that Justin B. Porter has made an assignment for the benefit of his creditors. We regret to hear it, for we consider him a bright, active young man and one that would succeed, though quite young and inexperienced. It needs age and experience to grapple with the complexities of commercial pursuits, and we think this experience will help in future.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
M. G. Troup steps down and out of the County Clerk's office this week to give place to his successor. He has held the office for six years and leaves it with an honorable record. He has been one of the most accomplished and obliging officers we ever had. He will carry his energy and efficiency into this law and collection business and make it a success.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
E. P. Kinne has retired from the office of Register of Deeds with the respect and good will of all. He goes into the loan and real estate business and will make it a success.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Our readers will please note the new ad of Jenkins & Madden. Mr. Jenkins is well known as the former register of the land office at Wichita, where he achieved a wide popularity as a clear headed businessman and an obliging gentleman. Mr. Madden is a young gentleman of talent and reliability.
AD: JENKINS & MADDEN [W. S. JENKINS/P. H. MADDEN]
General Stock, Mining, Real Estate and Commercial Brokers,
LOAN AND COLLECTION AGENTS
No. 17 EXCHANGE BUILDING, KANSAS CITY, MO.
NOTE: NOT A WINFIELD FIRM.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Dr. W. T. Wright is getting up a big reputation throughout the country by his success in surgery. Some time ago he commenced treating a son of Mr. Hon, of Pleasant Valley, who has been a cripple for several years, and was unable to walk without crutches. In six weeks the boy has so far recovered as to be able to stand alone, and the doctor expects before long to have his limbs as serviceable as ever. The gratification of the parents at the recovery of their son, which had seemed almost hopeless, is incalculable.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
There is confined in the county jail an insane woman by the name of Mary Noalla, from near Arkansas City. She was refused admittance to the asylum because the authorities thought her case hopeless. Judge Gans made another application last week, stating the difficulties of keeping her here, and urging that they should receive her. It is to be hoped that the judge will be successful in his efforts to get her into the asylum, for her present gloomy quarters not only increase her malady but is ruining her health.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
There are a large number of deeds and mortgages lying in the recorder's office uncalled for. They have been recorded and paid for but the owners keep neglecting to call for them. This is something that should not be neglected. If the records should be destroyed by fire, all the deeds in the office would go with them, leaving no clue to the titles, whereas if the parties had the deeds in their possession they would be safe. We would again urge that parties having deeds at the recorder's office should call and get them, and thereby save endless litigation in case of fire.
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
"St. John's Battery is making large preparations to celebrate Washington's birthday. They propose to give a grand entertainment in the opera house, at which will be rendered the military drama of the `Union Spy,' followed by a banquet and ball. The company will spare no expense to make the occasion one of the biggest Winfield has yet seen. The committees have been appointed and the preparations are being rapidly completed. One of the chief attractions will be a grand military drill and parade in which the Winfield Rifles will take part."
[ISAAC J. HENRY: NORTH END MEAT MARKET CASE.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
The District Court convened on Tuesday. Judge Campbell was detained at Wichita to finish up a criminal case on trial in that city, and had not arrived, therefore, the members of the bar elected J. Wade McDonald, Judge pro tem., who proceeded to try the case of the State vs. Isaac J. Henry, known as the North End Meat Market case. Torrance appeared for the prosecution and C. H. Payson for the defense. The case was ably conducted and resulted in the acquittal of the defendant. Mr. Payson's plea before the jury is spoken of as a very able argument and one of the finest oratorical efforts that have been presented in our courts.
[AN APPROPRIATE GIFT FOR CAPT. E. E. BACON.]
Winfield Courier, January 15, 1880.
Last week the members of St. John's Battery, No. 1, made Captain Bacon a handsome present in the shape of a sword, with belt and sash. The adjutant then read the following resolutions.
WHEREAS, Capt. E. E. Bacon has, by his gentlemanly conduct and efficiency, won the respect and admiration of St. John's Battery, No. 1, of the State of Kansas; and
WHEREAS, The Battery desire to confer upon him some testimonial of their appre- ciation of him as an officer and as a man; therefore be it
Resolved, That the members of St. John's Battery, No. 1, K. S. M., present this sword and sash to Capt. E. E. Bacon, with the hope that he will ever be reminded by it of the friendly regard felt for him by his comrades. . . .
[REPORT FROM "MUGGINS" AT BURDEN.]
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The railroad has struck us; came into the city limits about 5 o'clock, p.m.; will lay track through town tomorrow, put in side track or switch, and build a G. to turn the "iron horse" round on.
Mr. Henthorn has about completed his post-office building, and commenced a residence.
Mr. Legg, of Winfield, is putting the finishing touches to a large store building on Main street.
Mr. Bedell is here with his "Photo" Machine.
McAndrew is chiseling out the stone for a two-story business house, south of Hooker's drug store. The lower room will be used as a store, and the upper room as a public hall, where the preacher, the showman, the dancing men and women, or stump orator, can alike disport.
Messrs. Ford & Leonard commence, today, a new stone building, 25 x 80 ft.
James Fitzgerald sold five acres to Harvey Smith at $50 per acre.
Miss Kate Fitzgerald bought one acre just north of the town site, paying for it $100 cash.
Mike Ginley and Mike Dooley met with a severe accident which will disfigure both for life. In preparing for a blast, Dooley used a steel drill to pack the powder in the drill hole. The foreman told him not to use the drill, as there was flint in the rock. In spite of the warning, Dooley picked up the drill and lunged it in the hole, striking flint, and igniting the powder, which blew him several feet in the air. He will lose his eye sight. McGinley escaped with some slight bruises. Both were sent to Kansas City for treatment.
Thomas J. O'Connor died recently at Burden City, of pneumonia. Among the papers found were a check on an Indianapolis bank for $20, and some tax receipts of a farm near Independence. He was unknown: a quiet, unassuming man; about 45 years old; 5 feet 6 or 7 inches; light complexion. Supposed to have relatives in Connecticut.
Some fiend placed a plank 2 x 12 along the rail near Blueville, and by a mere chance the engineer discovered it in time to stop the train, loaded with men, only half a rail length from the obstruction.
Some imp of the devil stole the well-bucket and rope from the town well, and not satisfied with that, threw empty barrels and rubbish therein. I don't think it would be healthy for the cowardly miscreant if the Burden people could find him. MUGGINS.
[For want of space we are compelled to compress and suppress "Muggins," somewhat. Communications, to secure publication the same week, should reach this office not later than Monday evening.]
[INFORMATION ABOUT E. T. JOHNSON - IN ARIZONA.]
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Most of our readers will be interested in the letter on the first page of this paper from Mr. Ed. T. Johnson, in Arizona, giving a vivid pen picture of life and mining in that state. Mr. Johnson is a son of Mrs. S. D. Johnson, and the late Rev. Johnson, formerly pastor of the Congregational church of Winfield, a brother of Warner and Will. Johnson and of Mrs. McCommon and Mrs. Peadody. Ed. married Miss Eugenia Ward, a niece of Mrs. S. B. Bruner of this place, and owner of the Matthewson farm east of town. She is with her husband in the wilds of Arizona. We are glad that civilization is approaching them, and hope their venture will realize them untold sums of gold and silver.
[LETTER FROM ARIZONA.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 22, 1880. Front Page.
ED. COURIER: Having had letters of inquiry about this far-off territory, and thinking that more of your many readers might, perhaps, like to hear something of the country, I take this means of answering their several inquiries.
We are here situated in what will ere long be as good a mining section as is found anywhere, but as in California, Nevada, Colorado, and elsewhere, it requires time and capital to develop the mines.
There are gold mines within half a mile of our cabin, that have kept their owners in plenty for years, by simply packing a few loads of quartz on two burros, from the ledge, which is several hundred feet up the side of the mountain, down to the arastra, the most primitive way of pulverizing quarts, and taking out by this crude process $500 a month, when they work steadily, which they seldom do. When questioned by me as to why they didn't keep the old horses going, they replied that they took out enough gold to keep them in grub and clothes, and that was all that they wanted. They were slowly developing their mines, and after awhile somebody would come along and give them a good price for them; and I suppose their logic was good for they are now in Prescott to receive $35,000 from a Chicago company for some of them, and say they have others just as good left.
A Mexican arastra is a circular bed of rock with an upright shaft in the center, to which arms are attached and to which heavy rocks are tied; to the upper arm an old horse is hitched, and dragging the rocks tied to the lower arms over the rock bed pulverizes the quartz, which is broken up into pieces about the size of Walnuts. Quicksilver is put in the cracks of the bed, and water thrown in to form a pulp, which causes the fine gold to sink and coming in contact with the quicksilver, is held there.
There are sevral silver mines that will work from $200 to $300 per ton. It seems almost incredible that such riches should be lying dormant, but considering the inaccessibility of the country a few months since, it is not to be wondered at. The murdering Apaches, too, a few years ago, made mining a very risky business, as several graves not far off conclusively show; but that is over now, and Mr. Indian is about as scarce here as with you in Winfield; and if the Santa Fe road runs through as the talk now is, the country will develop amazingly, and who knows but some time in the future, when Arizona's stores of gold, silver, copper, lead, etc., are opened out and her population more dense than it is at present, that Cowley will not contribute of her surplus wheat, corn, etc., in exchange.
This is not an agricultural country, nor will it ever be, though there is considerable good farming land, but farmers are never sure of a crop except by irrigating, and even that is uncertain as the streams often give out just when the water is most needed. There has already fallen more rain this winter than for any winter for several years, and the mountains are covered with a foot or two of snow; so there are hopes of better times for both farmers and miners another season.
It is a good deal harder pioneering here than it was in Cowley, for there a person could drive with a team nearly anywhere. Here, no roads; nothing but mountain trails that even a burro is squeamish about traveling over. My "pard" and I have managed to build a comfortable cabin of three rooms over two miles from the end of the wagon road, and had to pack everything on our shoulders; building materials, eatables, cooking utensils, etc. Your readers may judge this hunting for gold and silver is not all pleasure. Still there is a fascinating excitement about it, unexplainable to those who have never engage in it. Even the little ones soon learn it. Yesterday my little daugher (4 years old), picked up an old tin can and went down to the creek, saying she was going to "wash out some gold." Having seen me pan out some, she thought that she must.
We have a placer or gravel claim at which we are about ready to commence work. We have had to pack our lumber for sluices over two miles, but hope to get paid for it before long.
The climate here is very healthy and invigorating. Excellent drinking water, and any amount of timber; the hills are all covered with good pine timber, oak, walnut, juniper, alder, and ash: the latter all rather diminutive. Flour is $6.50 per sack of 98 lbs., butter 50 to 60 cents per lb., Bacon 25 cents, eggs, $1.25 per dozen, when they are to be had, potatoes 4 to 5 cents per lb., and green apples 25 cents per lb. So we don't have many green apple pies.
We are located on Big Bug Creek, 14 miles by mountain trail from Prescott, but over 30 miles by wagon road. Ladies are a scarce commodity: my wife and a lady four miles down the creek, being the only ladies in this section. Two or three companies are going to extensive operations in the spring, when population will come in, but it is a barbarous country, and as soon as we can sell out some mines for a good round figure, we want to go back to Winfield, and have some happy times with the old friends, "as in bright days of yore." E. T. JOHNSON.
[LETTER FROM J. O. WILKERSON - SILVERDALE]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 22, 1880. Front Page.
ED. COURIER: I have noticed in some of my papers lately, articles written in favor of organizing the Indian Territory into a territory like the other territories of Uncle Sam's domain.
It seems to me, and no doubt to thousands of others, that this would be a step in the right direction.
Here we have a vast extent of the finest country within the limits of the United States, given over to a pack of landless vagabonds. A country surpassing in the beauty of the climate, the fertility of its soil, and in general features, any State in the federal union, or in the world, abandoned and turned over to make hunting grounds for a few lazy savages.
Let us take into consideration the extent of this magnificent country, reveling in the luxuriousness of a semi-tropical climate, and see if there are not homes for every Indian old enough to need one.
The Indian Territory contains 68,991 square miles, or 44,154,240 acres, a larger area, by 410,520 acres than the six New England States together.
The population of the Territory was, in 1870, 68,152.
We find by division, that there are in the Territory 276,964 farms of 160 acres each, or 633 acres for every man, woman, and child in it. Just think of it! 633 acres of the finest land in the world parceled out to one Indian, and you without a foot that you can call your own.
How long is this going to last?
Just so long as the people will let it.
Why not give each Indian 80 acres of land for a home, and let him live on it, or die on it, just as he likes.
There is no provision made to feed and clothe a white man. It seems to us that he must do this himself, or, like the Dutchman's horse, he will die; or, like the man in Winfield, he will be kicked out of doors to lie in the cold, sick or well.
We say, let each Indian have a deed of 80 acres of land; let him make of it a home, just the same as thousands of white people have done and are doing. Do this, and still there are 38,702,080 acres left which might be thrown open for settlement.
The Territory as it is now is a great curse to the law-abiding citizens of the five states which join it. Robbers, cutthroats, and outlaws of all kinds, after committing deviltries of every description in the adjoining states, find a safe and convenient retreat in the territory. It is really the house of a vast number of plug-uglies, thugs, sharpers, swindlers, murderers, and horse-thieves, of every grade and color.
Now if we were telling a lie about this, I would say, hang us for it, but everyone knows that we are telling the unvarnished truth.
I hope someone else will come out on this subject, for or against; let us have the sentiment of the people all around. Remember that a white man must work or die.
Only a few days ago an old man in Wisconsin was taken up as a tramp simply because he was walking along the public highway. That was the only reason the man could give, when asked what he was doing. He was old and careworn. The cold winds of many a hard winter had blown over his poor old head, and had helped to silver his hair. Yes, he was somebody's grandpa, too, very likely, but the merciless tramp-law of that state condemned the innocent old man to be taken to Madison.
The rough usage on the road, combined with the cold weather, was too much for the old man.
So he died!
Oh! What a lasting disgrace this is to the law-making body of Wisconsin! May the curse of Almighty God be on such a law as that, is my prayer; but then, he was a white man, you know. He had $12.00 in his pocket, which was found after his death. The idiots did not have sense enough to ask the old man his condition.
Had he been an Indian he would have been taken in, sheltered, and fed, and sent on his way.
Now, I am not writing this because I hate the Indian. On the contrary, I respect him. But then, I certainly think the white man is as good as an Indian, but the way they are treated now (that is to say, the way the government intends to treat them), I think it a fine thing to be an Indian.
Yes, it looks as if they were getting royalty paid them for being Indians.
I am certain they would be in far better condition, in a short time, than they are now, were they given this land and made to stay on it, the same as they are on the reservations; then that infernal big fraud and swindle, the Indian Department, would be dead, DEAD! DEAD!!
[PERSONALS.]
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Prof. Smith, a nephew of E. E. Bacon, is at present stopping in Winfield.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Major Thompson has built an addition to his restaurant.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The office of the engineer of the S. K. & W. railroad has been established in the old Winfield Bank Building. This road has reached Burden, and the track-layers are pushing this way at the rate of a mile a day.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The handsome gilt sign in town now swings over the entrance to Henry Brown's drug store.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Col. Alexander has commenced excavating for a new business block near the north depot.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Baird Bros. let the contract for the stone work on their new store building last Monday to Messrs. Bullene & Co.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Mrs. Mansfield is getting the material on the ground for her new building. She has already had several offers for the lower story as soon as completed.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
On Monday Messrs. Pryor & Kinne moved their office into the second story of the new Bank building. They now have the finest office in town.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Mr. Wm. Shrieves was on the street Monday evening; the first time since the accident which came so near proving fatal.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Tuesday morning Simpson & Fowler started up their elevator, and ran through two car- loads of wheat. They are now ready to handle all the wheat that is brought to them.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
As a photographic artist D. Rodocker can't be beat in this country. He has some cabinet size pictures now on exhibition that equal, in style of work and finish, anything we have ever seen.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The State Journal, of Topeka, pays our young townsman, Henry E. Asp, a deserved compliment. Mr. Asp is one of our brightest lights and is bound to make his mark.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The authorities of the asylum have again refused admission to Mary Noalla. Something should be done to find her a suitable place, as she raves continually about having to stay in jail.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Quincy Glass has received his stock of drugs and with a corps of assistants is marking and shelving the goods. He will be ready for business the first of next week.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Judge Campbell has returned to Wichita, but Judge McDonald will keep right on with the court, trying all cases in which he has not been interested as counsel.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Charley Black, on Saturday night, was awakened by a burglar trying to raise his windows. He got out his pistol as soon as convenient and fired it twice to hurry up the retreating burglar.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Will. Hyden has taken a position with Hahn & Co., merchants of Winfield. Mr. Hyden is a good salesman and a popular gentleman, whose services are always valuable. Beacon.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The Shock case proved to be a long-winded affair. Over forty witnesses were examined, and the attorneys upon both sides have sifted the case thoroughly.
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
The new station on the railroad, one mile east of the Grouse crossing, is named "Cambridge." It is 1-1/4 miles south of Lazette, and the buildings of Lazette are to be moved over to Cambridge.
Winfield Courier, January 22