[THE OSAGE LAND CASE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
WASHINGTON, April 10. The Supreme Court today rendered a very important decision in the Osage land case, in which is involved the title to 960,000 acres of land in Kansas. This is the largest and perhaps most important land case ever presented for adjudication. Under certain acts of Congress passed in March, 1863, and July, 1866, grants of land in Kansas were made in the usual form in aid of the Missouri, Kansas and Texas, and the Leavenworth, Lawrence and Galveston Railroad Companies. At the time these grants were made, the Osage Indians held a large tract of rich and valuable land in Kansas known as the Osage Reservation. The Osages
by a treaty proclaimed Jan. 21, 1866, the Government undertaking to sell that portion known as the Osage treaty land, about 960,000 acres, the proceeds to be applied to the general civili zation of the Indians. Another portion of the land was called the Osage trust land, and this was to be sold for the benefit of the Osages themselves. A third portion was called the diminished reservation, which remained in possession of the Osages until recently, when, by an arrangement with the tribe, this diminished portion was also sold, and the Osages went to the Indian Territory. On April 10, 1869, Congress passed an act authorizing the sale of the Osage ceded lands to actual settlers at $1.25 per acre, and under this act settlers entered the ceded lands. The railroad then set up a claim that these lands belonged to them by virtue of the act of March, 1863, and July 1866. They claim that, although when the acts were passed these lands did not pass under the grant, that the grant attached when the Indian title was extinguished. Attorney General Williams, at the instance of Congressman Lawrence, of Ohio,
in the name of the United States against the railroad companies, to adjudge that they were not entitled to the lands.
The case was decided by Justice Miller, of the Supreme Court, and Judge Dillon, of the Kansas District Court, January, 1874, the decision being against the railroad and in favor of the settlers, to protect whom the suit was brought by the Government. The railroads appealed the case to the Supreme Court, before which it was argued last October by Judge Black and Mr. Lawrence for the settlers and Colonel Phillips and Senator Edmunds for the railroad companies.
There are on these ceded lands a population of at least 15,000 people, possessing schools, churches, and various industrial establishments. The decision, which was read by Justice Davis, affirmed the judgment of the lower court in favor of the settlers. Politicians say Judge Davis' opinion in this case is a good campaign argument for him as a Presidential candidate.
[LOOKING FOR RELATIVES: FREDERICK BROWN, OF COWLEY COUNTY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
I, Frederick Brown, was born in Vermillion County, Illinois, in the year 1827. My mother died when I was very young. My father's name was William. I had two brothers: one by the name of Eli, and one by the name of Washington. As near as my recollection serves me, I also had two sisters: the name of one, I think, was Elizabeth, though I was so young I may be mistaken in the names given.
My father gave me away to Robert Osborn and his wife, Mary, four years after the death of my mother, and moved East with the other four children. Robert Osborn moved to Bates County, Missouri, in 1838, where he now sleeps. There I lived thirty-four years, and finally moved to Cowley County, Kansas, where I now live.
If any person has any record or knowledge of the above named people, they would confer a favor by giving me notice. My address is Winfield, Cowley County, Kansas. All papers in this and other States are requested to copy this notice once, and oblige
[COMMUNICATION FROM H. B. NORTON, SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Dear Traveler:
We were up before the dawn yesterday, to spend a day in the mountains among the trout. There were four of us, including two businessmen of San Francisco. We had driven fifteen miles before 8 o'clock, and found ourselves at the opening of a mountain gorge, out of which flowed a foaming torrent. Here we left our team, and started on foot up the pass.
It was a wild landscape: Our path was along the stream, under the granite cliffs which rose abruptly one and two thousand feet above. In every available spot the great pines and redwoods were growing. The largest standing trees were inaccessible, and I was unable to get exact measurements; but I stood by new stumps more than ten feet in diameter, and was assured that many of the trees in sight upon the slopes were over two hundred feet high. However, such are not "big trees" according to California standards. There was a wonderful variety of ferns and flowering plants, and, all in all, it was a landscape hard to describe by one accustomed only to the plains of Kansas. The great clouds were pouring over the mountains from the Pacific, wrapping and hiding the tops of the cliffs. At their foot flowed such a stream as I have sometimes dreamed of, but hardly expected ever to see: a clear, cold, crystal torrent, whirling around great boulders, pouring in waterfalls over granite ledges, sometimes forming deep pools where great salmon were lying.
We clambered some miles up the pass, in orthodox sportsman's rig, the most important feature of which was the leg long rubber boot for wading. We at last stepped into the water, and began our work, fishing as we waded down stream. I had soon stepped into the deep water, and was carrying several gallons of the icy fluid in my huge boots. The fish lay in the swift, shallow waters; not a bite could we get in the deep pools. The salmon gave no heed to our bait, and the trout were all on the "riffles." The rain soon came down heavily, but couldn't make us any wetter; so we fished on philosophically. It was hard, chilly, exciting work, but we had soon bagged over a hundred trout: each one a live jewel. Above and below us, men were killing fifteen pound salmon with spears, but we stuck to our little trout, and were content.
Lunch, dry clothing, and the drive home followed in due course. I am sorry to add to this a bad cold and stiff joints for a few days; nevertheless, it was a novel and pleasing experi ence, which I feel like repeating before long.
Deer are still numerous in the Coast Range, and our sportsmen are occasionally hunted by grizzlies. The amount of redwood and pine in these inaccessible mountains is enormous, but there is little or no grass, and the soil is rocky and sterile.
All goes well with me, and mine. My life is very busy, but health and prospects are good. With kind remembrance, H. B. NORTON.
SAN JOSE, CAL., April 8, 1876.
[COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS: ARKANSAS CITY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Called meeting. Present, S. P. Channell, Mayor; H. D. Kellogg, J. A. Loomis, J. I. Mitchell, Councilmen.
Moved and seconded that Dr. J. A. Loomis be elected President of the Council; carried.
I. H. Bonsall was recommended as City Clerk by S. P. Channell, and confirmed by unanimous vote of Council.
E. D. Eddy was elected Treasurer by a unanimous vote.
The following committees were appointed.
Finance Committee: T. H. McLaughlin, W. M. Sleeth.
Committee on Ways and Means: Dr. Kellogg, J. I. Mitchell, J. A. Loomis.
Committee on Public Improvements: T. H. McLaughlin, Dr. H. D. Kellogg, J. I. Mitchell.
Adjourned to meet at 8 o'clock Thursday evening, April 20th, to receive report on sidewalks from Committee on Public Improvements, and all other business of a general nature that may be brought forward.
[INTERESTING STORY ABOUT BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Tradition has it that years ago, when Benjamin Franklin was a lad, he began to study philosophy, and soon became fond of applying technical names to common objects.
One evening when he mentioned to his father that he had swallowed some acephalous mollusks, the old man was much alarmed, and suddenly seizing him called loudly for help. Mrs. Franklin came with warm water, and the hired man rushed in with the garden pump. They forced half a gallon down Benjamin's throat, then held him over the edge of the porch and shook him, while the old man said: "If we don't get them out of Benny, he will be pizened, sure."
When they were out, and Benjamin explained that the articles alluded to were oysters, his father fondled him for an hour with a trunk strap for scaring the family. After this Franklin's language was simple.
[RUM AND THE CENTENNIAL.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
A man will not see in Paris a raving drunkard on the streets once a week. It may be from better police relationsso much the better that the ruinous example is restrained; but we believe that while drinking is more general, weaker stimulants are taken, and less of them. Certainly no such shocking exhibitions are seen, unless it be in Britain. But we are in a fair way to lose all sense of decency here. The city of the centennial teems with it; the park is literally girdled by run houses; and there seems no one to speak or act for the weak when tempted. Our statute books are loaded with enactments, which are of no more restraining power than a dam of straws. We blush for our national jubilee when we think of the shocking exhibit of our servitude.
[STATE/LOCAL NEWS.]
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, April 26, 1876.
Judge Waters, attorney for the A. T. & S. F. Railroad, in a recent conversation with Rev. B. C. Swarts, said that it was the intention of the Santa Fe Company to extend their line down the Arkansas to this place within the next eighteen months.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Nothing of much importance has occurred in Congress during the last ten days, except the investigations of defrauding parties.
The bill to open the Indian Territory meets with considerable favor in the House, but could not pass the Senate.
In reference to the Black Hills, Senator Morrill, of Maine, submitted a resolution directing the Secretary of the Interior to communicate to the Senate any information in relation to the situation and disturbances on the Sioux reservation; and whether the military forces have been interposed therein, and if so, if it was by the authority of the Department of the Interior, and the reason for such interposition, which was agreed to. Much time has been consumed on the question of transferring the Indians to the War Department, and it is believed the motion will finally prevail. It is said they could be maintained at an expense of one and one half million less than the present plan.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
So much sugar has been sent through the mails from Vermont since the opening of the season that the department has had to issue an order directing postmasters to refuse to receive any more.
[THIRD SEMI-ANNUAL SESSION OF THE WICHITA DISTRICT CONFERENCE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Wichita District Conference, held at Arkansas City, Kansas, April 19, A. D. 1876, was opened by Brother Wrenn by reading and prayer. Brother Wingar, at 10-1/2 o'clock, moved that, in the absence of Rev. Buckner, Brother Oakly be appointed temporary chairman, and M. C. Green, secretary; carried.
Rev. S. B. Fleming, of the First Presbyterian Church; Rev. David Thompson, of United Presbyterian Church; C. M. Scott, and Rev. P. W. Matthew were introduced to the Conference.
RECAP OF PERTINENT ITEMS ONLY.
There are but two organized classes on the Dexter charge: one at Dexter, and one at Maple City...report from Rev. R. R. Brady. There are 68 names on the two class books, about 18 of which will be stricken off, as they have already left the county. This will leave 50 members, some 8 or 10 of whom are still on probation.
RESOLUTION:
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Conference that the interests of Methodism in Arkansas City demand the practical sympathy and cooperation of the Presiding Elder and ministers of the Wichita District; therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Conference Board of Church Extension be earnestly requested to use its influence toward promptly securing from the Parent Board a donation of $200 and a loan of $400 towards building a Methodist church in this city.
Resolved, That the members of the District Conference of the Wichita District, now in session at Arkansas City, do hereby tender their thanks to Mr. C. M. Scott, editor and publisher of the Arkansas City TRAVELER, for favors shown to the members of this conference in publishing notices of this assembly, offering them free use of his sanctum during their stay, and his efforts generally to make their sojourn pleasant. May he ever prosper in his useful enterprise.
Resolved, That we appreciate the Christian courtesy of Rev. Mr. Fleming, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, in granting this Conference the use of their church in which to hold its sessions, and we heartily thank him for the same.
Resolved, That we are laid under renewed obligation to Rev. J. J. Wingar for the courteous manner in which he has received and provided for us during the Conference sessions.
Resolved, That we present our thanks to the choir for the excellent music rendered during the Conference.
Resolved, That we, the members of the Wichita District Conference, do return our hearty thanks to the citizens of Arkansas City and vicinity for their kindness in caring for our temporal wants during our sojourn among them. M. C. GREEN, Secretary.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "C. C. H."PLEASANT VALLEY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
The Union Sabbath School was reorganized at the Holland schoolhouse Sunday, April 16. Rev. Mason was chosen to act in the capacity of Superintendent; Mr. Al. Hon was elected
librarian, and Mrs. Amy Chapin, treasurer.
Mr. W. R. Constant met with a severe loss last Thursday morningthe destruction of his house and nearly the entire contents by fire. A defective stove pipe was the cause of the fire, which was not perceived until too late to stay the flames.
Peter Retherford and Samuel Waugh have purchased a two-thirds interest in the Vibrator threshing machine owned and run last season by Messrs. Frederick and Hays. Art Holland has ordered a Battle Creek Vibrator from Kansas City, and intends to try the virtue of the machine on Mr. T. A. Wilkinson's farm about the 15th of June. Mr. Holtby, Mr. White, and Mr. Huff talk of buying harvesters this season.
Last Friday evening, about 7 o'clock, our township was visited by a severe hail storm, but on account of the mild wind which accompanied it, there was no great damage done.
Mr. Frank Chapin is building a very good residence one mile south of Holland school- house. It is to be 16 x 20 feet, and made of pine lumber.
It is understood that 'Squire Forbes, on Sunday, April 22, at his residence, bound in the bonds of matrimony Miss Maizie Smalley, of Beaver Township, and Mr. William Eckles, of Pleasant Valley. The happy couple have the congratulations of a host of friends.
Will. Hostetler and Will. Seeley contemplate starting to Washington Territory in a few days. Success to them. C. C. H.
[POST TRADERS IN INDIAN TERRITORY: NEVER PAID BABCOCK.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Washington, April 19. The Committee on Expenditures in the War Department today heard A. E. Reynolds, of the firm of Lee & Reynolds, post-traders at Camp Supply, Indian Territory. Reynolds testified that he secured the appointment through Gen. Hedrick, and paid him $4,500. Witness never paid a dollar to General Babcock or his brother.
Mr. Geo. W. Bregs, of Geo. W. Cowles & Co., read a statement in regard to their processes for the preservation of tents and clothing for the War Department. Gen. Meags favored the process, but the Secretary of War opposed it. They had paid nobody to work for them except Col. Don Piatt, editor of the Washington Capitol. Witness thinks the contract with Piatt was for 5 percent of gross proceeds of the work in 1874. Col. Piatt put in a claim against Cowles & Co. for $11,000 or $12,000, but the company refused to pay him on the ground that he had been paid in full for his services. Piatt then threatened to have their work stopped. Piatt has been employed to use his influence with the Secretary of War. The 19th July, 1874, work of Cowles & Co. was stopped through Piatt's efforts. Witness went to see the Secretary of War and asked for a copy of the charges against Cowles & Co.; the Secretary gave him no satisfaction and said that he would be d_____d if he would gratify his request; witness then went to Long Branch to see the President; was not acquainted with either the President or General Babcock; saw General Babcock and told his story; witness was told that there must be some mistake, that the Secretary of War would be there in a few days, and he had better wait till Gen. Belknap came before going to see the President. Witness did wait, and a few days afterward received a copy of the charges through Gen. Babcock. The amount of money paid to the company was about $400,000. The company put in an answer to the charges.
[ABOUT INDIANS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Omaha, April 19. An official telegram to Gen. Crook from Fort Laramie yesterday, conveys that no Indians have left either Red Cloud or Spotted Tail agencies with their families. Some fighting with Crazy Horse on Powder River. A few men went out to bring in their own people and some of them have returned accompanied by northern Sioux. The Cheyennes at Red Cloud are alarmed and talk of going south. Indications are that the thrashing given Crazy Horse has affected the Oglala so favorably that they will likely keep quiet. Maj. Jordan is of the opinion that three hundred Oglala would go with the expedition against the northern Indians, if they were allowed to keep what they captured. The Northern Sioux have stolen their stock lately. The Indians at the agencies are remarkably docile. A few miners have been killed near Hill's lately.
[PERSONALS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Trees in bloom.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Cherry trees are in bloom.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Plows are going on almost every farm.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Township Assessors are busy with their reports.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
HENRY WORK is assisting the barber at Winfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Strangers and new faces appear on our streets every day.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
JAMES I. MITCHELL received a new lot of oak tan leather last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
BORN. Saturday, April 22, to Mr. and Mrs. P. B. Andrews, a 9 lb. girl.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Only printed matter can be sent in open envelopes for one cent postage.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
JOHN BROWN has a field of barley headed out, and will be ready to cut in three weeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
PURCHASED. Dr. Houston has purchased D. J. Bright's farm on the Arkansas 1-1/2 miles from town for $2,800.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
An arrangement has been made for the mail to go out Monday morning now. There will be no mail Sunday evening.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
HAIL. On Friday evening at 7-1/2 o'clock a shower of rain fell at this place, accompa nied with hail as large as hazel nuts.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
A new burying ground has been laid out on the east side of the Walnut which will be known as "Prairie View Cemetery."
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
We publish a communication from Prof. Norton, of California.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Mr. Wm. R. Sheen, is taking orders today for rubber hand stamps. They are not the old gum stamp, but of a quality that will last.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
We noticed two wagon loads of new furniture coming in last Saturday for L. McLaughlin. He can furnish a full outfit of parlor and kitchen furniture.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
A. O. PORTER sold his blacksmith shop to Mr. Henry Franklin, late of Muscatine, Iowa. Mr. Franklin comes well recommended as a workman and shoer.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Last Thursday Mr. H. Constant, living about six miles north of town, lost his house and property by fire. The fire originated from the stove pipe.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
A SUNDAY SCHOOL was organized on Sunday last in School District 32, which will meet every Sabbath hereafter in the Parker schoolhouse at 3 o'clock p.m. C. M. Henshaw was elected Superintendent.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
MR. T. C. BIRD has some rye on his farm east of town that is eighteen inches in height and completely headed out. He also has several apple trees that are in full blossom notwithstanding the recent storms.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Mr. D. J. Bright, having sold his farm on the Arkansas, will dispose of the following property at auction May 6, 1876, at his residence: 1 cow, 2 yearlings, farming implements, and household furniture. Terms, one year with approved security.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Messrs. Hoffmaster and Franklin have bought out Mr. A. O. Porter's blacksmith shop, which they will hereafter run as a blacksmith, wagon, and shoeing shop. The above are practical workmen and guarantee satisfaction. See their ad in this issue.
AD: CENTENNIAL BLACKSMITH SHOP!
HOFFMASTER & FRANKLIN
Are prepared to do all kinds of BLACKSMITH, WAGON & PLOW WORK. Special attention paid to Machinery. -ALSO- HORSESHOEING. All work warranted to give satisfaction before leaving the shop. At K. F. Smith's Old Stand.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
More new houses are under construction in this place now than we have seen since the second year of its settlement.
NEWMAN and CHANNELL & HAYWOOD are building two two-story store rooms, with fifty feet front by 100 feet deep, of brick.
S. C. WINTIN: A two-story cut stone house.
J. W. HUTCHINSON: A brick residence.
REV. FLEMING: A two-story brick dwelling.
O. P. HOUGHTON: A two-story brick.
Thompson and Rexford, a commodious frame dwelling.
A. C. WELLS: small frame.
P. J. DAVIS: a small frame.
THERE ARE OTHERS, WHOSE NAMES WE HAVE NOT YET LEARNED.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
One of the heaviest hail storms ever known in this section passed over a portion of this county last Friday evening, doing considerable damage to windows.
Near Salt City, Henry and Alfred Pruden had over fifty glasses broken out, and many of the neighbors suffered similar losses. One man lost six calves, and others pigs and chickens. Quite often prairie chickens and small birds were found dead. All agree the hail stones to be as large as walnuts.
At this place the fall was much lighter, and few stones were found to exceed a hazelnut in size.
The roaring of the storm could be heard some distance; yet the wind was not so very strong.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
We were pleased to entertain a call from Mr. Beede, Agent of the Osage and Kaw Indians, and Mr. Gay, of Osage Agency. Many persons of this place were happy to meet Mr. Beede, whom they found to be a practical, sensible, and efficient man. He assumed control of the affairs of the Agency under embarrassing circumstances, caused by the blunders of the former Agent; yet beneath all has proven himself a man equal to the responsible position he has been appointed to fill. The wives of Mr. Beede and Mr. Gay accompanied them to this place.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Most members of the Conference made many friends while at this place that will cherish their memory. Everything passed off very pleasantly, and we believe from the expression of many of the ministers that they were well entertained and favorably impressed with our people and the community. After the adjournment of the Conference, a visit to the Kaw Agency was participated in to the general enjoyment of all who attended it.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
MRS. FITCH wishes to inform the ladies of Arkansas City and vicinity that she has just opened a large stock of millinery goods at her old stand, at the north end of Summit street. She wishes the ladies to call and examine them.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
The ladies of the First Presbyterian Social Society will meet at the house of O. P. Houghton, at 2 o'clock p.m., today. All are invited to attend.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
THE BAND BOYS are requested to meet at Pearson's Hall, Thursday evening at 7 o'clock, as business of importance is to be transacted.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
See the card of Hoffmaster & Franklin, blacksmith's. They can be found at the shop at east Summit Street, always ready for work.
[AFRAID OF INDIANS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
A letter was received at the Governor's office yesterday from residents of Sappa, Decatur County. A delegation was sent from that place to Leota, Norton County, to meet Gov. Osborn, but he had left that place before they reached there; and so they made out a statement and forwarded it here. They state that a number of parties of Indians are prowling about the country, and evince no desire to communicate with the whites, and that the settlers are uneasy. They wish to be furnished with arms and ammunition. Decatur is an unorganized County lying west of Norton County.
[BUSINESS NOTICES.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
I have four or five sets of new harness I will trade for breaking. JAS. I. MITCHELL.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
The contract for laying the plank on the north half of the Arkansas River Bridge, will be let to the lowest bidder. Bids received until May 15th. WILL MOWRY, Clerk.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
HOUSE TO RENT, and one acre of ground. A. A. DAVIS.
[MISCELLANEOUS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
The President has signed the bill authorizing the sale of the Pawnee reservation.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Cowley County has twenty church organizations or one to every 480 inhabitants.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
Extending the railroad west from Independence to Arkansas City is being much talked of by those interested.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 26, 1876.
The United States Treasury order for the exchange of the fractional paper currency for silver coin was issued on Monday last.
Bushels of silver dimes, quarters, and half dollars are being shipped out from Washington daily, to take the place of the fractional currency now in circulation.
[ABOUT INDIANS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876. Front Page.
Mr. Milligan, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, who arrived at Fort Laramie, April 20, says that while coming in on the morning of the 16th, his party were attacked by Indians in the Rio Canon, near the Cheyenne River Ranche, about fifty miles from Custer. A few of the party escaped to the ranche. Mr. and Mrs. Metz, of Laramie City, were killed; a colored woman was taken prisoner; a man named Simpson was also killed. The bodies were buried next day. Mrs. Metz had been ravished. Three men were wounded: Grisham, from Missouri, mortally; Felton, from Missouri, and C. W. Bergesser, from Virginia City, Nevada, seriously wounded. The men are at Cheyenne River Ranche.
A party from the Black Hills today says that about five days ago three wagons were found at the entrance to Buffalo Gap on the Yankton road destroyed and the stock gone. Signs of a fight were numerous. Indians had undoubtedly attacked and destroyed the entire outfit.
[RAILROAD MEETING.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876. Front Page.
The meeting was organized by the election of Mr. Fleming, of Arkansas City, Chairman.
The object of the meeting having been stated, a committee of three was appointed, consisting of N. B. Cartmell and M. S. Manwell, of Elk County, and Mr. Platter, of Cowley, to examine credentials of directors.
The following directors were present.
Longton: N. B. Cartmell and J. C. Pinney.
Elk City: Mr. Wm. Wright.
Elk Falls: R. R. Roberts and L. J. Johnson.
Wild Cat: H. E. Hitchinson.
Greenfield: A. A. Toby.
Lazette: Mr. Fall.
Tisdale: Mr. Young.
Winfield: Messrs Robinson and Platter.
Arkansas City: Messrs. Fleming and Sleeth.
On motion, a committee of three was appointed to draft a charter. The committee consisted of N. B. Cartmell, L. J. Johnson, and Mr. Platter.
After careful consideration the charter as reported was adopted and signed by the directors and forwarded to the Secretary of State for record.
The company is to be known as the "Parsons, Walnut Valley & South-Western Railway Company." The points to be traversed in Elk County are the Townships of Longton, Elk Falls, Wild Cat and Greenfield. The objective points are Arkansas City, via Lazette, Tisdale, and Winfield in Cowley County.
The prospects for the early construction of the road are considered by the directors to be very flattering.
We are indebted to Mr. L. J. Johnson for the above. We shall probably have a more lengthy report from the Secretary for publication next week. Elk County Ledger.
[EDITORIAL COLUMN.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
MAJOR SLEETH and Rev. Fleming attended a meeting of the Parsons, Elk River and Walnut Valley railroad Co. at Tisdale yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
The Centennial Exhibition opens May 10th. A space has been assigned in the pavilion for Newspaper Exhibition, and each paper is placed on file, as it is received, and given a number. The number given the TRAVELER is 2,228. Parties in the city desiring to see the paper will have to give the number.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Are we going to the Centennial? You bet! You won't find a Buckeye newspaper man in Kansas but what intends going. It was the custom, among the clay hills of Ohio, for boys to get up at three o'clock in the morning, walk five miles to the highest hill, climb the highest tree, and look for the elephant, when a show was coming to town; and the same desire lingers with them still, and will cause them to seek Philadelphia and the big elephant.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
We did not make a report of our recent trip to the Territory, as Rev. Green promises to write it for our next. We found everything about as we expected, except the additions that had been made of a mill and a large stone barn. The Indians too, were doing more work on their farms, and have taken claims up the Arkansas, almost to the State line. The school is progressing under the directorship of Barclay Ratcliff, and matters generally about the Agency evince a spirit of enterprise. Our company was cordially entertained, and partook of the hospitality by Dr. Hunt and his good wife. It is a pleasant place to visit and generally attended with considerable information.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "C." RE RAILROAD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
We notice with pleasure the proceedings of a meeting held at Lawrence a few days ago, by the friends of the L., L. & G. railroad, with a view to the extension of that road westward. There can be no doubt but the movement of the people of Arkansas City and Cowley County, to have an outlet for our surplus grain and produce, opened the eyes of the managers and operators of the L., L. & G. R. R. to the necessity of extending their line from Independence westward to this place. We are pleased to see such an unanimity of response from the editors and publishers all along the road in favor of the new movement. Although not at present on the line of that road, we hope soon to be able to give the movement our hearty support, and should the company be able to complete the gap between Independence and Arkansas City this fall, we would insure them a million bushels of wheat alone for transportation east. There are now three roads aiming to tap this place: one from the east, one from the north, and one from the northwest. It does not require a philosopher to tell which of the three is our best outlet; but an outlet we must and will have, and ere long. So railroad managers, take due notice. C.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "H. S."DEXTER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Dexter is going in on her muscle more than usual, now having three good stores here. Mr. John Harden has just set up a new stock of goods in Will Merydith's building; McDorman is fitting up the Dexter House in grand style, and will be ready to move his stock in within ten days. F. Henrion has just received a large supply of dry goods, clothing, etc., from New York and Boston, and by the way he is having his store repaired and painted up, one would think he meant business.
Service and Darts have bought the Dexter mills, and those who have been fasting so long, on account of not getting their grists ground, have assumed more cheerful countenances. When such substantial businessmen as Service & Darst take hold of such an enterprise, we have room to rejoice. They will commence grinding on Monday. Come on, farmers; you needn't be afraid of losing your sacks now.
The new blacksmith shop is running two fires. Mr. Day, the proprietor, says he has more work than he can do, while Johnnie, the old reliable, is as busy as ever. We haven't got the spreading chestnut tree, but Oh, my! how the anvils ring and the bellows roar!
J. A. Bryan is building an addition to his dwelling, and several others are preparing to build.
The wheat looks splendidly, both on the bottom and upland. The year will decide the question whether the uplands will be valuable or not. Some of the lowlanders tuck their heads a little when they cast their eyes over the broad acres of the splendid wheat of the highlanders. Some of the farmers are a little behind with corn planting, because of the wet spring.
Our worthy citizen, Mr. T. Henrion, has started on a trip to Europe. We just received the intelligence that the steamer had arrived safe at Plymouth. He will return in July. Mrs. Darst started yesterday to visit her friends in Illinois. H. S.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "R."CALDWELL.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
I find while visiting other portions of the country that many have a great antipathy towards Caldwell, on account of its being, as they say, a den of thieves.
A few weeks ago a couple of gentlemen were on their way to this place with the intention of engaging in the cattle business, but before reaching here they were accosted by a man who lives not far from Wichita, who said it would be impossible for them to keep horses or cattle with any safety in the vicinity of Caldwell, as the town was infested with thieves who were always on the alert for an opportunity to steal.
This so startled and discouraged the emigrants that the next morning they left to seek a location elsewhere.
Now, while I do not deny the fact that in Caldwell two saloons are daily blazing with the flames of vice and corruption, which scorch and wither the hopes and prospects of many who once bid fair to become useful members of society, I do claim that Caldwell is not by any means a rendezvous of thieves and robbers. I have been living in this vicinity about four years, during which time I have heard of only four horses and two mules being stolen within twenty miles of Caldwell, and they were all recovered but one. And I have not heard of any cattle being stolen, with the exception of a few head which were run off by the Indians. I have traveled much through this region on horse backnot only through the State, but along the border of the Territoryand have often left my horse during the night in the most suspicious looking places, more than once tied to a sun-flower stalk; and at the present time, I consider my horse as safe at or near Caldwell as in any other part of Southern Kansas. I have no idea that a gang of horse thieves would be harbored or tolerated in this place any more than in Arkansas City or Wellington, and if the time ever was when horse thieves had their headquarters at Caldwell, that time has most assuredly passed. R.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "C. C. H."PLEASANT VALLEY TOWNSHIP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Our township was favored with a copious shower last night, which was very acceptable among our farmers. The prospects for a good wheat crop are so favorable that our farmers expect to harvest forty bushels per acre.
The summer term of school in District No. 10 was called to order this morning by Miss Moore, who bears the reputation of being a well qualified and energetic teacher.
I had the pleasure of attending a neck-tie Sociable, at Odessa schoolhouse, given by the Sabbath school of that vicinity. It was well attended and conducted in such a manner that all who were present enjoyed themselves splendidly. The proceeds of the evening were about $23, which are to be expended for a Sabbath school library.
Rev. Wingar delivered an eloquent sermon to a large and attentive congregation last Sabbath evening. Mr. Wingar has been preaching to us more than a year, in which time he has gained the confidence of many friends. Revs. Reese and McDonald, the ministers who were to preach for us some time ago, passed the neighborhood last week, on their way to Sumner County. They said they would be back and hold a protracted meeting with us in two or three weeks. We would rather see them than to hear from them.
[ANDRES EISING, INDIAN SCOUT AND INTERPRETER, ARRESTED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Andres Eising, the Indian scout and interpreter, who loafed around the saloons of Wichita during the winter, was arrested on the 12th inst. at Fort Reno, Indian Territory, and will be here in the course of a day or so to appear and answer to the charge of stealing a horse. He stole the horse in the upper end of town some six weeks since, and a saddle and bridle belonging to Sheriff Dunning, then started for that thief harbor, the Territory. He traded the horse for a pony, in Wellington, and was recognized by some of the citizens who had some suspicion that the horse was stolen. J. O. Kincaid has been on his track and captured his man on the above date. Beacon.
[KANSAS ITEMS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
The Iola well is 736 feet deep.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Arkansas City folks are eating new potatoes.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Three feet of snow fell during the month of March.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
One Cherokee outfit sold 1,603 kegs of beer last year.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Kansas wheat crop this year will be worth $9,500,000.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
There are thirty-three lodges of colored Masons in Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Independence is bored with a lot of dirty, sneaking, begging, stealing Indians.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Wirt W. Walton, of the Winfield Courier, and Dornblaster will make a match of it yet.
[STARVING INDIANS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Chicago, April 27. A dispatch was received by Gen. Sheridan from Gen. Crook, which says: The Indians at Red Cloud are on the verge of starving, owing to neglect in forwarding supplies. Unless immediate steps are taken to supply them, they will all leave the reservation. Fears are entertained that in their present temper, they will make a raid on the whites.
[AD: C. L. PARKER, BLACKSMITH AND WAGON SHOP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
On south end of Summit Street. The first building on the east side of the street as you enter town from the Arkansas River bridge. Work warranted.
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.
[INDIAN HERALD ITEMS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
Three fully grown centipedes were found under the carpet at Agent Beede's residence the other day.
Indian Odd Fellows will have a public demonstration at Caddo, Indian Territory, on the 26th inst.
The Osage Indian doctor never makes a charge for his professional services, but accepts whatever is given him.
Judge Murdock, a student of Indian antiquities, will construct facsimiles of the work of mound builders at the Centennial.
On Thursday of last week friend Larson, the shoemaker, mistook poke root for parsnip and came near losing his life in consequence.
Osage men of physic never treat a case for a longer time than four days. The patient, if not cured, is then left to wrestle with death unaided.
Agent Beede was out looking over the Agency wheat field Thursday morning. R. W. Hopkins, his clerk, was out on the same occasion.
The Pawnees and Osages are now on friendly terms with each other, and Pawnees are frequently visitors here. They talk with Osages by signs.
The House passed the bill to transfer the Indian Bureau to the War Department, on the 21st inst., by the large vote of 139 yeas to 64 nays.
The stipulated fees for the lawyers employed by the Osage settlers in that great land suit were $40,000, and of this sum Governor Shannon will receive $13,000.
[NATIONAL NEWS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
The bill to transfer the Indian Bureau to the War Department was then taken up.
Mr. Hunton moved an amendment allowing officers on the retired list to be employed as Indian agents. Adopted.
Mr. Sparks offered an additional section providing for the admission to the United States citizenship of any Indian who may prove to the satisfaction of any court nearest to the reservation of his tribe or nation, that he is sufficiently intelligent and prudent to conduct his own affairs and interests, and that he has adopted the habits of civilization, and has for five years been able to support himself and family; but such Indian shall not, on that account, forfeit his interest in the property of the tribe. Adopted.
[INDIAN MASSACRE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
An Indian massacre took place on the flat between the Prairie Dog and the north fork of the Solomon, some time last winter. Last November Newton Lyle, of Jewell Centre, camped on the spot, which by the way, is an old camping ground for buffalo hunters, and there was no evidence of any trouble ever having taken place there. Two weeks ago he camped on the same ground with a gentleman by the name of George Beauchamp from Jewell Centre, and they found the skeletons of ten men and the charred remains of two wagons. Besides these there were quite a number of carbine cartridge shells scattered all around over the ground, the barrels of two carbines, several frying pans and skillets, and two mules running loose over the prairie with rope halters or lariats attached to their necks, and every indication that a bloody conflict of some kind had taken place there. The bodies were perfectly nude, and there were no books or papers to be found to indicate who the unfortunate men were or where they were from. This story, as improbable as it may seem, can be substantiated by David Blank and George Beauchamp, of Jewell Centre, Kansas; and yet some folks say it is all nonsense and buncombe to arm the frontier settlers against the Indians.
[THE TEXAS CATTLE DRIVE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1876.
The Kansas City Price Current publishes further advices regarding the coming season's drive of Texas cattle. Seventy seven thousand head are added to the number previously reported, making a total of 335,000 head. Probably one fourth of these cattle will stop in northern Texas, some for shipping, but the largest portion will go to stock the new ranches. The other three fourths will go to Wichita, Dodge City, Hays City, and the Platte River. The bulk of this vast herd is composed of cows, yearlings, two-year old steers, and heifers. The proportion of the three and four year old steers is excessively small.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "CHARLIE"ONE OF THE BLACK HILLS BOYS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876. Front Page.
Old Traveler:
Here we are at last at the last railroad point. We have been expecting to leave the railroad at every point since leaving Plum Creek. Everything is lovely, "and the goose hangs high" in camp. Every day we meet Black Hillers on the return, and everyone "bested." One man will call you aside and tell you of the trials and difficulties of life in the Hillstelling you not to go; while another will button-hole you, and with apparently as much sincerity tell you what he knows, and advise you to go on. It is needless to say we always take the latter advice, because it suits us. Indian stories are all the go here, but "we boys" have seen one or two "Injuns."
From six men and one wagon, our crowd has grown to sixteen wagons and forty-eight men. We have had a very pleasant trip, with but two stormy days in all. It is 169 miles from this point to Custer City. Everything in the outfitting line is cheap here: flour, $2.90 for the best; bacon, 50 cents, etc. Our old friend Berkey has been elected Captain of this outfit. Joe Reckle shot himself through the hand, but is all O. K. now. In two weeks we will be in the Hills, there to try for ourselves if there is any gold.
The boys all bid me say they are "mighty worse," and bound for the Hills.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "FREIGHTER"IN THE TERRITORY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876. Front Page.
Editor Traveler:
DEAR SIR: Thinking that perhaps the readers of your paper would like to hear from this section, I send the following.
Last Fall, Mayberry, Drirkill, and Lackeridge, Texas cattle men, went into camp near me with 6,100 cattle, where they were wintered. Day before yesterday they left their winter quarters and started for Kansas. At their count on the morning of starting, they were "out" but about 300 head, dead and missing. Perhaps 100 of the strays may yet be found. They consider it a small loss. These are the first cattle that have passed up the trail. Through cattle will be at this place tomorrow. It is estimated the drive will be a large one.
Have you seen spring yet? Here the woods and prairies are green; countless millions of wild flowers are in bloom, and birds whose colors are as varied asasas, I don't know what, are singing, and I suppose are happy.
Can everybody go to the Centennial, and who runs the concern? What if Bill Hackney did thresh Folks? A lot of us boys used to get black eyes every few weeks, over there in Wellington, but they never called us bullies through the papers.
Success to the R. R. and boat.
Will write again if anything is invented. FREIGHTER.
[MILITARY PROTECTION DEMANDED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Omaha, April 29. Governor Thayer, of Wyoming, has arrived to confer with General Crook, relative to military protection to be afforded to the Black Hill stage line. He wants some of the stations on the route thoroughly protected, especially Red Canon and Hot Creek. The former is very deep, and when travelers pass through it, the Indians crawl up its sides and shoot down or throw down rocks upon them. The General has promised all the protection possible, and an order has been issued today to that effect.
A traveler from the west today says it is currently reported about Cheyenne that H. E. Brown was not shot by Indians, but by some persons he had put out of the train, and who revenged themselves by ambushing and shooting at the train, which resulted in the killing of Brown.
[MARRIAGE AMONG OSAGES.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876. Front Page.
Marriageable parties have but little to say, and in fact, not half of those who marry ever converse with each other previous to the performance of the marriage ceremony. Osage parents raise their children with great care, and feel that no member of the tribe can upon just grounds object to the union of his daughter to another's son, or his son to another's daughter. Such being the case, the parents, or whoever else may have the care of children, feel it obligatory upon them to make selections most desirable and without regard to the feelings of the parties to be united.
The girls are brought up with the same care that is given their brothers, and the selections of husbands are nearly as frequent as the selections of wives, and the rule that governs the one regulates the other.
After the parents have determined upon the woman who shall be a wife of their son, a large quantity of the choicest buffalo, elk, antelope, bear, or other fresh meatfood for the savageis prepared after their most inviting manner and taken to the wigwam of the girl's parents where the object of the visit is made known and if it meets their approbation they are feasted upon the richest and most sought articles of food which nourishes the aboriginal race. But if the girl has a brother or sister who is absent, or some valued friend in the distance, the food is not accepted, but the projectors of the marriage scheme are advised to return home, where the food is kept until the girl's most intimate friends have arrived at her residence, when and where the before mentioned delicacies, in conjunction with a number of ponies are again presented, and if the proposed marriage meets the approbation of the parties, the food is then accepted and the feast enjoyed.
After the feast is over a distribution of the ponies among the woman's relatives and friends takes place. This occurrence is invariably in the latter part of the day. The proceed- ings now stop until the afternoon of the following day when she is attired in all the gaudy colors of which they have commanded, and placed upon the finest steed of which her brother may be possessed. Her father's sister, we-che-me in the Osage language, acts the part of bride's maid, and by the lariat leads the pony from the home of her childhood. Her brother accompanies them with a loaded rifle a distance from the lodge and fires a signal, when the young man's mother and sisters advance and upon a new red blanket stretched from its four corners, receive the woman from the back of the proud buffalo horse.
While the young woman's soon-to-be father-in-law takes possession of the horse and rifle, she is carried into the young man's lodge, where she is redressed. After the rearrange ments in her costume are announced, the "Town crier" or "Kettle-tender" calls the young man from a neighboring bush or lodge, and he is seated beside her in the presence of two or more clans of their people assembled for the occasion.
They now partake of luxuries prepared for the occasion and then comes a performance on the part of the elders of clans assembled, and the exercises for the day now close.
Early in the morning of the next day all the goods owned by the young husband are packed and transported to the lodge of the bride's father, where they are distributed by her mother among those of her friends who failed to get horses in the beginning of the ceremony. The young couple are also mounted upon a pair of the best horses to be commanded and escorted to the home of the bride by clans that participated in the ceremonies of the day before. The bridegroom is now redressed, and this lodge is made the home of the newly married warrior. He is accorded privileges that no other of the family is allowed to enjoy. If his newly made wife has sisters, they too, become wives of him as they arrive at the age of maturity. Osage New Year's Gift.
[LOCAL/STATE NEWS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
A general cry is now made for the County to put up and sustain bridges across the Walnut, Dutch, and Grouse Creeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Thousands of acres of land can be had in Cowley County by actual settlement, and paying the Government $1.25 per acre.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Railroad Meeting held at Tisdale, last week, was well attended, and the delegates entertained by the people without charge. Tisdale will become noted for its hospitality.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
We have just received word from Hon. W. R. Brown, saying that he expects to get the Cherokee Strip lands brought into market, to actual settlers only, soon. We shall hear from him again, and will know the result before many weeks. They will probably be brought in as before, at $1.50 and $1.25 per acre.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Many papers of the State express surprise at the border people speaking in high terms of Indian Agent Beede. The people of the border are always fair in their expressions, and had the former Agent treated them with half-way civility and respect, they would never have acquired the hatred heretofore manifested.
[SCOTT ANSWERS MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT COWLEY COUNTY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The following questions are asked us by a young lawyer, just graduated, at Lebanon, Tennessee, and may prove beneficial to others.
1. How many lawyers are there in your place? Three.
2. Is there much litigation in your County? A great deal more than there should be.
3. Is the place healthy? Emphatically, yes. We have less sickness in Arkansas City than in any other town we know of, of the same size.
4. Is the price of living cheap or high? Board can be obtained at first-class hotels for $5 per week. If you are a married man your living expenses need not exceed $5 per week for two persons.
5. If you do not think Arkansas City and Cowley County a good place to locate at, can you direct me to a better place where the prospects are better? We have, like most printers, traveled over the greater portion of the United States and Territories, and a portion of Canada; over Kansas from the north line of the State to the Indian Territory, and from the east line to Coloradoand are free to say that if a working man cannot find a location to suit him here, he will be ready to complain if he ever reaches the golden shore.
[PARSONS, WALNUT VALLEY & SOUTHWESTERN RAILROAD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Pursuant to adjournment, the Directors of the above road met at Tisdale on the 2nd inst. All present but Mr. Platter and Mr. Posten. The meeting was called to order by Mr. Fleming, and proceeded to perfect the organization by the election of officers. An informal ballot was taken, after which the following were unanimously elected: President, James E. Platter; Vice President, S. B. Fleming; Secretary, W. D. Wright; Treasurer, S. M. Fall. The officers were then sworn in by Judge Gans, and provision made for procuring the necessary company books. The President, Secretary, and Judge Cartmell were then appointed a committee to visit Kansas City, and interview railroad men in the interest of this road, and report. The local organization is now completed, and ready to accept or make propositions relative to the building and operating of the proposed line.
The meeting was harmonious and enthusiastic, and from the interest manifested by those along the line of the road, it is fair to infer that they are in earnest on the railroad question, and when an opportunity is offered they will contribute their support to the speedy construction of a road through this rich and, as yet, untraversed region of Southern Kansas
[MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Grand Jury of the District of Columbia have agreed to return an indictment against Belknap for bribery. When Mrs. Marsh was looked for to give her testimony she was non est.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Six men, Arrow Wilson, a full blooded negro; Gibson Ishladubkee, Isham Sealy, and McGhee, full blooded Choctaws; O. Sanders, full blooded Cherokee, and W. Leach, a white man, were hung at Fort Smith on the 21st of April. They were all sentenced at the late term of the United States Court for the Western District of Arkansas, on the 3rd of September last. Six others were hung there and these six were executed on the same scaffold.
[PERSONALS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Plant your Centennial tree.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Where are the May parties?
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
JOHN GOOCH lost one of his horses this week by colic.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
WIND or rain don't stop the work on the new brick block.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
A very heavy rain fall took place here on last Saturday morning.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
A small boat has been constructed at the Water Mills to cross the Walnut.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
NEW GOODS this week at Houghton & McLaughlin's and A. A. Newman's.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The big show will be in town tomorrow. Be careful how you bet, boys.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The water at Winfield took the board walk between the courthouse and town.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Beethoven meets at the First Church next Saturday evening. Bear it in mind.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
WATER one foot in depth flowed in the streets of Winfield during the late flood.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
BENEDICT & CO., make the new patent colt and calf weaning bit. It is a success.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The M. E. social was held at the parsonage, last Monday evening, and was well attended.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Thompson's and Rexford's new house is almost completed. It is large and commodious.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
DOGS that are taken up on account of the tax not being paid are put in the calaboose.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The demand for horses and mules is growing more and more. Wichita is the only market.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Delegate Convention for this Representative District will be held at Dexter next Saturday.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
L. J. WEBB, of Winfield, is a prominent officer in the Good Templar's Lodge and member of church.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Ladies' Society of the Presbyterian Church will meet at Mr. A. A. Newman's this afternoon at 2 o'clock.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
R. HOFFMASTER announces himself ready to feed, care for, and hire stock at his stable on West Central Avenue.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
We measured a twelve-inch growth of a sprig of a maple tree, and a twenty-inch growth of this year's alfalfa.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
We saw on the town site, last Monday evening, five jack rabbits. The lowlands were probably too moist for them.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
MR. ELDRIDGE, of Coffeyville, passed through this place last Saturday, on his way to the San Juan mines of Colorado.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
SPECIMENS of grain, root crops, fruit, etc., left at this office will be forwarded to the Centennial. Bring them in, friends.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The west wing of the mill dam on the Walnut near this place was partially washed away. It was only that portion that was built of logs.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
As most are aware, Castello's Double Circus and Zoological Aggregation will give two exhibitions at this place tomorrow, at 1 o'clock p.m., and at 7 in the evening. The troupe is recommended as a first-class circus, with a collection of wild animals accompanying it. The price of admission is 50 cents for adults, and 25 cents for children.
An additional feature of the show on Thursday will be a number of Kaw and Pawnee Indians, who will be on hand with bows and arrows to sell.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
REV. SWARTS and part of his family departed for Hutchinson this week. Cal. and Charley will remain to work the farm. The best wishes of the community go with him.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
By request of several parties, Dr. Hughes obtained some new virus, and has inoculated a number of persons. Parties visiting the Centennial should take the precaution.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
MASTER WILLIAM SCOTT, of Melissa, Collin County, Texas, son of Col. Thomas A. Scott, has passed a successful examination and been admitted as a cadet to West Point Military Academy. We congratulate the parents on the progress of their son.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
MISS MATTIE H. THOMPSON, daughter of Rev. David Thompson, has arrived from Ohio, with the design of residing with her parents. His son, Rev. R. J. Thompson, of Halsey, Oregon, has lately found a helpmeet for himself. May this prove a happy union.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The house of Dr. Alexander, of this place, was struck by lightning during the storm last Friday night. The flash followed down the stove pipe, passing through the floor into the cellar, and set fire to an old umbrella. No material damage was done.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The post office of Walnut, Butler County, has been discontinued; also, Park City, Sedgwick County. Peace, in Rice County, has had its name changed to Sterling. They lost the County seat and want something more than Peace, now. Mrs. Mahala T. Covert, of this County, has been appointed postmistress of Little Dutch.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
WHETHER the report is true or not, we cannot say, but it is generally reported that houses for half a mile on each side of Rock Creek, this County, were swept away by the late flood. The amount of water was fearful. On the bottom lands east of town on Harmon's farm, in some places, it compelled cattle to swim.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
MR. JAMES E. FOSTER, a commercial traveling man, who was at this place but a short time ago, was thrown from his buggy and killed, near Eureka, not long since. Mr. J. C. Bennett was with him at the time, and both had stopped and got out of their buggies to kill a snake. Upon entering the buggy, Mr. Foster cracked his whip, at which the horses took fright and ran before he was thoroughly seated, throwing him out, his head striking a fence, and fracturing his skull. He lingered a few hours, unconscious, and died. The Traveling Association of St. Joseph, of which he was a member, passed a number of resolutions upon his tragic death.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
NUMBER OF INHABITANTS: 740.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN CULTIVATION: 7,553.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN WHEAT: 2,760.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN CORN: 1,760.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN MILLET: 167.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN SORGHUM: 10.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN IRISH POTATOES: 54.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN OATS: 424.
NUMBER OF ACRES IN RYE: 90.
NUMBER OF FRUIT TREES SET OUT IN ALL: 29,000.
NO. POUNDS OF BUTTER MADE IN FAMILY: 13,550.
VALUE OF ANIMALS SLAUGHTERED: $3,089.00.
NUMBER OF HORSES ON MARCH 1, 1876: 397.
NUMBER OF MULES ON MARCH 1, 1876: 57.
NUMBER OF HOGS ON MARCH 1, 1876: 496.
NUMBER OF SHEEP ON MARCH 1, 1876: 13.
NUMBER OF COWS ON MARCH 1, 1876: 311.
NUMBER OF CATTLE OF OTHER KINDS IN 1876: 386.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
JIBBER JABBER. It raineth as the farmer wishesth.
A. O. Hoyt and wife board at the Central Avenue.
Cuss the Marshal, now, and put in a cut at the Police Judge, for the dorg tax must be paid.
No one drunk for a coon's age.
The boys go swimming now.
Marriages slacking up.
Work on the brick block is lively.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
One man in Arkansas City paints. It's George Allen.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Frank Speer is going to have a running horse.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Fresh ingins now.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
H. P. Standley has a "farm" near Grouse.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
There will be animals at the show, so that church members can go. They needn't stay for the funny part.
[WALNUT OUT OF ITS BANKS! THREE BRIDGES WASHED AWAY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The greatest rise of the Walnut River ever known by the residents of this place was last Saturday afternoon and night. It is asserted by those who watched it that the river rose four feet in one hour, and the amount of drift wood, saw logs, rails, etc., carried down was immense. Not until late in the day was any danger apprehended to the bridge at the Water Mills, but Sunday morning brought the news that the bridge had been washed away. The loss will be greatly felt, as it is doubtful whether another will replace it soon. It cost this township $4,500 only three years ago, besides the additional expense of repairs since and interest on the bonds. The abutments remain, however, and to replace it now would not cost more than one-half what it did before.
Particles of the structure lodged on Callahan's farm and on the island at the mouth of the Walnut, but we do not know what condition they are in. The bottoms from the east edge of the town site nearly to the river are under water, and the water in the woods at the mill would swim a horse. In many places large patches of wheat are entirely submerged, and fences, wood, and lumber have been washed away.
At Winfield we learn the lower bridge across the Walnut was taken down the stream; also, the bridge across Dutch Creek. The fall of rain at this place was but three and one-half inches, but it had the appearance of being much more up the Walnut.
Near Salt City they experienced another hail storm, entirely destroying two fields of wheat. We have not heard from Grouse Creek and other localities, but expect the damage will be considerable. It seems as though the bridge across the Walnut at this place cannot be dispensed with, as nearly one-fourth of the year the river is not fordable, yet there is a strong prejudice against bonding the township for any purpose.
[LOTTERY CASES TRIED IN U. S. COURTROOM.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The United States Courtroom was filled this morning to witness the trial of the lottery cases. Five of the Atchison Lottery men have been indicted, among whom are Hon. J. M. Price, Hon. G. W. Glick, S. M. Strickler, and Luther Challiss. There are three counts in the indictment. The first alleges substantially that the defendants sent letters and advertisements of an illegal lottery through the U. S. mail. The second, that they sent letters, circulars, etc., of a certain Gift Enterprise, similar to an illegal lottery through the mails. The third, that they advertised through the U. S. mails, a scheme to distribute certain real estate purporting to belong to the Kansas Land and Immigration Association, of which they were managers, while said association did not own a foot of land.
[BUSINESS NOTICES.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
For Sale or Trade Cheap. A good second-hand reaper and mower. J. T. SHEPARD.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Strayed or Stolen. One blazed-face, spotted horse pony, 2 years old; white feet and white eyes. Also one spotted mare pony, blazed-faced; white feet; supposed to be about 6 years old; lump on back, caused by saddle. Anyone returning the same, or giving information that will lead to their recovery, will be liberally rewarded.
[FROM INDIAN HERALD: OSAGE INDIAN ARRESTED, ETC.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876. [From Indian Herald.]
Lewis Grayblanket, a young full blood Osage, was arrested in this place on Tuesday last. He was charged with theft, and, though for some time after his arrest his manner was somewhat defiant, he at last comprehended an odd reality, when he confessed having stolen a jacket, a smoothing iron, shoes, etc., from the school, and a revolver, leather, whetstone, etc., from the shoe-shop. These confessions gave his troubled heart so much relief that it was hard for him to resist the temptation to tell more, so he acknowledged having stolen a $10 note from a Mexican in the tribe, John Twogiver, which he said had been spent at the stores, excepting fifty cents, which he claimed had been returned. He next put on a coat, when at the school, and wore it away; but he says the Osage boys took it from him, thus showing that others of the tribe may at times enjoy a nature similar to his own.
He says that he also stole a comb, but inasmuch as he had nothing but a "roach" on his head it was of but little use to him, so he lost it. When speaking of his last theft, he said that he went into the mill building through the "saw-dust hole" and got Hard Rope's flour, and that it was natural for him to lie, and that it accorded with no one's advice, which facts leave Louis lone responsible for this much-to-be deplored habit. The young man was before a jury of Osage chiefs and counselors, who realize that in matters of this kind it is folly to be Indians any longer. From the subjoined paragraph the reader will learn how hard these Indians are trying to imitate their white brothers in the execution of a civil custom of law, and this, too, be it remembered, is not being done within a hundred miles of a soldier of the United States.
Resolved, That the chiefs and counselors of the Osage Nation earnestly pray our Agent, Cyrus Beede, to sentence Louis Grayblanket to thirty days' hard labor, and not to exceed thirty days unless he, our Agent, in his judgment, thinks that justice demands it. Blackhorse will have charge of prisoner, and will be paid one dollar per day for his service as guard.
[CREEKS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Creeks constitute one of the largest tribes in the Territory, and are located south and contiguous to the Osages. Nearly twenty-five years ago a missionary, a Mr. Lockridge, succeeded in writing their language and ours, together and at the same time, in twenty-four districts and two high schools. About seven hundred are now in school, and about one hundred and sixty, males and females, attend the two academies. Many of the district schools are conducted by Indians themselves, though one language is not taught to the exclusion of the other, and when a Creek pupil can read one language, he is expected to be able to read the other also. About one half of the tribe talk English, and one-third read the same, with their own, though a child brought up and familiarized alike with both languages will, if left to itself, read Creek first.
About one half of the tribe are now members of some religious nomination, and they have about fifty itinerant preachers who superintend the various "camp meetings" for religious worship, in the autumn of each year. A goodly number of Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists may here be found, and from the manner in which the Lord's praises are shouted, white visitors would believe most of the tribe to be religiously inclined.
The three religious denominations above mentioned are so enthusiastic in the christianizing of these people that their missionary laborers are yet kept in the field, and kept, too, at the expense of the churches, instead of making it an expense to be paid out of Indian funds. Indian Herald.
[MISCELLANEOUS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
The Governor, yesterday, commissioned J. N. Campbell, captain, P. E. Bacon, first lieutenant, and G. W. Watson second lieutenant of the Norton County militia.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
John Roe, the young man who stole Samuel Endicott's mare, was convicted and sentenced to one year's imprisonment in the penitentiary. Winfield Courier.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "R."CALDWELL.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876. Front Page.
The storm on Friday night was the most terrific ever known in this place. The constant flash of lightning, together with the successive peals of thunder, made the night one long to be remembered. About 2 o'clock the air was so full of water that to one looking out of a window it resembled an old fashioned snow storm. At daylight the little branch east of town in many places was more than a quarter of a mile wide. It was a grand old sight to see the water flowing through the green branches of large cottonwood trees. Gardens and fields were several feet under water, and in some cases are very much damaged. Several families were compelled to leave their houses, which fortunately were not swept away, but the floors were washed without mop or brush. How is that for drouthy Kansas?
Sain's new drug store is a great improvement to Caldwell.
J. A. Blair & Co. have purchased the old log store formerly occupied by C. H. Stone. The old logs have become new, except the roof and floor.
Several claims have been taken recently, and still there is room; plenty of vacant land within three miles of town. R.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "RED BUD"MAPLE TOWNSHIP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
We have a surplus of rain here. The ground will be too wet to plow for several days. Very little corn planted; wheat and oats doing finely; clover and grass the same.
A good deal of hedging and forest tree planting has been done, and several large peach and apple orchards set out.
Several breaking teams are running, and have all the work engaged they can do this season. According to present indications, the area of wheat in this township will be increased one half this fall. An early harvest is certain, and some farmers are already engaging help. Harvest hands will be in demand at good wages.
The schoolhouse in District No. 72, which has hung fire so long, is in process of construction, and will probably be completed in time to be named Centennial. Prof. T. A. Wilkinson has the contract, and is putting it through with a rush.
The general health is good.
The population of this township was increased one recently. Mr. and Mrs. S. F. Gould are happy in entertaining the new comer. It is a girl. RED BUD.
[SELLING LIQUOR TO INDIANS OFF THEIR RESERVATIONS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Judge Foster, of the U. S. District Court, in a case tried before him last week at Topeka, has decided that it is no violation of the United States law to sell liquor to Indians when off their reservations. This is quite an important decision, and will shut out nearly all the Indian whiskey cases which consumes so much of the time in the court, as nearly all of them are prosecutions for selling to Indians when off their reservations.
[A RIDE OUTSIDE THE U. S.: VISIT TO KAW AGENCY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876. Front Page.
On the morning of the 24th day of April last, the Arkansas City session of the Wichita District Conference of the M. E. Church having closed, its members, accompanied by a hospitable and intelligent company of citizens, started on a trip to the Kaw Agency, taking the ridge road.
The citizens consisted of Rev. J. J. Wingar, Rev. B. C. Swarts and lady, Rev. Rawson, C. M. Scott, Miss Eva Swarts, Mrs. C. R. Mitchell, Mrs. Jas. I. Mitchell, and Miss T. Bowersall comfortably seated in buggies, with a number of well filled baskets. The first eight miles of the way presented to the eye the most delightful landscape scenery I ever beheld, comprising hills and vales, and the rock edged ravines of the Arkansas River. Reaching Grouse creek at noon, we halted and partook of an excellent dinner, such as only the Arkansas City ladies can prepare, and which was decidedly the best meal I ever enjoyed upon the banks of the Grouse.
We gathered up the fragments that remained, and after climbing a limestone hill some 75 feet above the river bed, we soon reached the Indian country, passing over, as a general thing, a very good quality of land, with small ravines and running water, and occasionally a high narrow ridge or peak, covered with magnesian limestone. Mile after mile we passed along, with the "TRAVELER" disappearing in the distance, doubtlessly feeling that
"_______ I am the chief of Uliva's Isle,
And this Lord Ullin's daughter."
Reaching the last summit, we unexpectedly beheld three stone buildings, surrounded by beautiful oak timber. My companion, Miss B_____, upon having her attention called to the fact that we were fast nearing our destination, manifested considerable "surprise" (not to say timidity). Discovering the "daughter" at the first building, we halted, and being informed by her that our lodging had been engaged there, we alighted, the Indian boys assisting in caring for our teams. Someone placed a "nickel" in the bark off a tree and told a little four-year-old to shoot for it. He began to shoot, when they would put him nearer and nearer, until he finally conceived the idea of certainty, and placing his drawn arrow upon the money, let go, to his own joy and the entertainment of the company.
Dr. Hunt called us to supper, where we were as well entertained as in the States. At 7 o'clock the collection bell called the Indian children to a room in the Industrial Mission boarding house, where also were Cyrus Beede and lady, Mr. Spray, Jr., and lady, of Indianapolis, and our own party. Mr. Beede is Agent for the Kaws and Osages. The Superintendent, Mr. Spray, Sr., read a part of the fifth chapter of Matthew, including the Lord's Prayer, which the children repeated with him, when they sang "Hold the Fort." The Superintendent then invited us to talk to the children. Rev. J. J. Wingar talked with them to the edification of all present, when they sang "All to Christ I owe." The Superintendent made a few remarks, after which the services were closed with a prayer by Mrs. Spray. The children filed into the hall and then upstairs to their sleeping rooms. We were invited into the parlor, where we spent the evening very pleasantly, conversing and singing.
The morning dawned brightly, and partaking of a good breakfast, we were ready to pay our bills, after which we visited some of the villages. It was amusing to see with what nicety and precision the ladies of our party adjusted each ribbon before entering those wigwams. Returning, we visited the school of nine girls and eighteen boys, from four to sixteen years of age. Upon being asked if they ever felt like fighting, they blushed and said it was wrong.
One of our party asked them if they had heard of Jesus, and received a quiet "Yes, sir," for an answer. The "TRAVELER" also made a good speech. Most of the school can read and write. Quite a number aspire to teach school, to make money, and do good. In their opinion, the Bible is a good book, and good children go to heaven and vice versa. Mr. Barclay Ratliff, the teacher, understands the peculiarities of his scholars, and has good control over them in every respect. In their out-door amusements he makes himself one of them, but in the school room preserves law and order. After the usual Quaker farewell salutations, we started for our mother country, with many kindly remembrances, and hoping to meet again.
The buildings of this Agency are located on second bottom land, about one mile north of the Arkansas river, on the west bank of a small branch. Approaching from the north, the first building is the sub-Agent's, a two-story stone, occupied by Dr. Hunt and lady. The Doctor's duties are to issue the provisions to the various Indian families about once each week, and superintend their farming. The tribe is divided into different lodges, each having their chief and wigwam village. Each lodge, or collection of families, farms together, but separate from other lodges. They have 1,200 acres in cultivation, 550 of which were broken last year. They have 27 breaking plows and teams, and $1,700 of available appropriation for the year 1876. Everyone wants a team, but there is not a sufficient number of teams to cultivate the broken ground, hence some will have no corn. It looks as though the Kaws would do some good if they could have money and supervision a few years.
The broken lands are generally fenced with rails, of which they have 75,000, all split by themselves. They have a mill, and grind corn for bread. Some of the squaws have white husbands, and live in log houses. Most of the Indians are dressed in shirts, muslin pants, and moccasins, with a large blanket thrown around them, while some adopt the white man's uniform. Some speak our language, and will greet you with a "How!" if they meet you on foot anywhere near the buildings; they need no introduction. A furnishing store, council room, and blacksmith shop are also here.
The Mission comprises three stone buildings, the first being the Mission boarding house, three stories high besides the basement. It is occupied by the Superintendent, Uriah Spray, by whom the children are boarded and lodged, and called together every evening for Bible reading and worship. The second is a school room, some 30 x 40 feet, well seated.
The third building is the barn, three stories high, and built upon a side hill. The stables are in the basement, five horse stalls and ten cow troughs, where the Indian boys tie the cows every evening and milk them. There are three sheet iron lined grain bins, with a capacity of 2,000 bushels each; hay shoots and pullies for filling the mows; in fact, all the modern improvements, making the best barn I ever say.
The Mission has separate farming lands: 100 acres fenced as a pasture, besides cultivating lands; has twenty head of cattle, and about the same of hogs.
We left the Agency at about half past 10, taking the river road. The gradually rising uplands are covered with a variety of oak timber, 12 to 24 inches in diameter, and one to three rail cuts in length. The river timber is black walnut, hickory, sycamore, ash, hackberry, and cottonwood, some of the trees being three feet in diameter. Sometimes the upland makes a near approach to the river, and presents a 150 feet perpendicular rock face, near the top of which are to be seen beautiful cedars, and underneath, the water gushing forth in the western sunlight, following its mossy, rock covered course to the river.
As the other teams drove on, our individual party, consisting of Miss B_____, Revs. Wingar and Rawson, and myself, was gradually left in the rear. Presently, we passed into a wood, through which a stream ran with steep banks on either side. We passed down the hill into a narrow channel, and turned abruptly to the right upon the sideling of the river bank. The left bolt in the spring bar being broken, and the seat not being fastened to the bed, I was in consequence thereof gently deposited head foremost into two feet of water, while Miss B____ and Rev. Rawson quickly fell into line. Bro. Wingar was lost: said he didn't know where he was. Miss B. gasped for breath, and looked as disconsolate as one well could look. Bro. Wingar had by this time found himself, and promptly came to the rescue by leading the team out of the way. Bro. Rawson now came up with the relics, and seeing the result to be only a good ducking, and that no one was hurt, his exuberant spirits found vent in a succession of shouts, in which we were disposed to join. Bro. Swarts' acute ear having caught our notes of joy, returned to learn the cause of this unseemly levity. No one knew, but our dripping garments betrayed us, and while we hung ourselves up to dry, he made a fire from the only match in the company, it, too, having shared our fate in being dipped. After administering to the wants of our inner selves, we were much refreshed, and hitching up were again on our way, passing over the timber covered upland, adapted to the pasturage of all kinds of stock.
We were soon passing along the banks of Osage creek, which have a height of some fifteen feet until we reached the almost bankless, rock bottom ford, just below which is a fall of about six feet over and under huge rocks of several tons weight. They doubtless once formed the bed of the river, until the water moved the earth beneath, leaving them edged one upon another, forming various little lakes or pools. These, with the twenty-feet projection of the unfallen bed from several points below, present quite a novel and interesting view. We spent some time in gathering petrified moss, shells, ferns, etc.
Feeling rested, we pursued our homeward way, arriving in the evening, and feeling well paid for our time. And I wish to take this opportunity to tender my kindest regards to my acquaintances in Arkansas City for their most generous hospitality. M. C. GREEN.
[EDITORIAL COLUMN.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
C. M. McIntire has assumed entire control of the Cowley County Democrat, and will be alone responsible for its action hereafter.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
The delegates from Creswell, Pleasant Valley, and other townships, were prevented from attending the Convention at Dexter, on account of high water, and no bridge across 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.
Mr. Todd, formerly of this city, but for some years a resident of Wichita, has been boring for coal at Salt City, Cowley County, for about eighteen months. Week before last, at the depth of four hundred feet, he struck a good vein. This is within four feet of the depth that geologists have stated that coal would be found in that region. It is supposed that the vein struck is the same as the one discovered on the Canadian River in the Indian Territory. If so, it will be about four feet six inches.
Mr. Todd keeps the thickness of the vein to himself. He has shut up the hole and is at Wichita making arrangements for mining. It is said that he is offered a large price for an interest in the mine. If it proves that there is such a vein, it is of great importance. It is in the immediate vicinity of the salt wells. It is also in a section of the State that has no coal, except this. Every month seems to open up something new and rich for southwestern Kansas. What helps one part of the State helps all parts. Commonwealth.
The above cannot be altogether credited. The hole has been drilled; but our information is they have not struck coal yet.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Notice is hereby given that the board of Commissioners of Cowley County, Kansas, will meet at the office of the County Clerk in the city of Winfield on Monday the 5th day of June, 1876, as a County Board of Equalization, at which time and place all persons feeling themselves aggrieved can appear and have all errors in the assessors' returns corrected.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "C. C. H."PLEASANT VALLEY TOWNSHIP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Revs. McDonald and Reese have arrived, and have been holding a series of meetings at the Holland schoolhouse.
The Union Sabbath School is progressing finely, being composed of one superintendent, five teachers, and about eighty students.
Mr. R. Holcomb sold to J. L. Hon 80 acres of land for $350. Judging from the arrangements now being made, it looks as if Jim was to be the next lucky man.
Mr. Frank Bott, late of Iowa, is having the sod turned at a rapid rate. Mr. Bott is an energetic man, and says he is going to have his whole farm broken and sown in wheat this fall.
Mr. Teeters has built an addition to his house, which is evidence of his being tired of living in close quarters.
The school in District No. 10 is progressing finely under the supervision of Miss Moore.
The circus at Winfield last Saturday was a grand humbug, with two gambling side shows connected with it. C. C. H.
[JAMES CHRISTIAN WRITES TO THE STANDARD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
DEAR STANDARD: Of late I have been somewhat remiss in giving you items from this section of the State. In fact, there was but little to write about, and items of news are like cat feathers, few and far between.
Our town is decidedly dull; you can scarcely see a farmer in town, and when they do come, all the talk is about wheat harvesters, reapers, droppers, headers, and such like.
Our merchants are doing little, except Channell & Haywood, and the Benedict Brothers, agricultural implement dealers. They seem busy putting up machinery for the farmers. Our streets are blocked up with great big things that look like walking wind mills, but there will be a demand for them all. You can have no conception of the enormous amount of wheat to be cut in this county, besides rye and barley. I have no doubt but that hundreds of men and machines from the northern parts of the State could find profitable employment during the harvest in this county. There must and will be a scarcity of hands and machines, there is so much to cut and so little time to do it in.
Our weather is now very warm and grain coming on rapidly. Rye, barley, and wheat are now heading out. The rye and barley will be ready to cut in three weeks from this time, and wheat from the 1st to the 10th of June. In riding over the country, you will see wheat in all stages of height, from eighteen inches to four feet. A better prospect for a full crop was never seen in Southern Kansas than at present.
I meet a farmer, asking him how much wheat he has in this year, his answer is, "Well, I have only about 120 acres myself, but my neighbor A has 170 acres, and B., just east of me, 150 acres, and a man across the creek has over 200 acres all looking splendid."
One man on the Walnut has 430 acres in wheat, old Mr. Holmes. How is that for high in a five year old county? JAMES CHRISTIAN.
[PERSONALS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Corn four inches high.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Wanted. Harvest hands.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
D. J. BRIGHT starts for the Centennial this week.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
HARVESTING will be in full vogue in three weeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
There are three Grangers in the Cherokee Nation.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
E. P. KINNE and wife paid this place a visit last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Rev. Fleming has probably seen Philadelphia by this time.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
The Zoological Aggravation did not come last Thursday.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
The Centennial pins at H. & Mc. are the pride and comfort of all the ladies.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
J. L. STUBBS and Miss Amelia Mowry returned last week from their visits.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
JOURNEYMEN saddlers could find employment at the shops in this county.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
One man broke 23 acres of sod in five days with a Deere gang plow. Who can beat it?
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
MR. AND MRS. CHANNELL will rusticate this summer in the East. Also, Mrs. Newman.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
The show fulfilled its appointment at Winfield last Saturday, and dodged its bills here.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
Now the question arises shall the bridge be built east of town or put up on the old piers?
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
FOOT BALL has broken out again. It makes fun for the boys and work for the shoemakers.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1876.
We noticed some volunteer corn eight inches in length from the ground to the tip of the blade.