WINFIELD MESSENGER
MARCH 15, 1872 - NOVEMBER 8, 1872.

THEY MADE NOTE THAT JAN. - MAR 1, 1872 WERE MISSING FROM THEIR FILES!

BEGINNING MARCH 15, 1872 - NOVEMBER 8, 1872.

[COWLEY COUNTY.]

Winfield Messenger, Friday, March 15, 1872.

This is the fifth county west of the Missouri State line in the southern border tier of Kansas.

The east line of Cowley County is 105 miles west of the west line of Missouri.

It lies between 37 and 37-1/2 degrees of north latitude, and the meridian of 97 degrees of longitude west from Washington, passes through Winfield Township in this county.

It is bounded on the East by Howard County, on the North by Butler County, on the West by Sumner County, and on the South by the Indian Territory.

It is the largest and most attractive county in the famous Osage Diminished Reservation, which was opened for settlement by the act of Congress of July 15th, 1870.

Up to October, 1870, Cowley County was the home and the hunting ground of the Osages. It was the haunt of herds of Deer, Antelope, Buffaloes, and flocks of wild turkeys, and the Paradise of the red man.

The counties on the east and north of the Diminished Reserve had been in process of settlement for some years.

During the year 1869 a great number of settlers poured into Montgomery, the eastern county of this reservation, trespassing upon the Osages occupying their lands, building cabins, and founding towns. In the fall of 1869 a few settlers following down the Walnut made claims along its valley, in Cowley County, and others followed in the spring of 1870, and when the U. S. Census was taken in June, 1870, the population of Cowley was 750, located principally in the Walnut Valley. During this summer the county was organized and Winfield named as the county seat, and at an election for that purpose, soon after, the county seat was located at Winfield by a two thirds vote.

At the time of the passage of the act of July 15, 1870, there were three towns laid out in the county: Arkansas City, Dexter, and Winfield. Arkansas City then had about fifty build ings, Winfield two, Dexter two. Since that time population has poured rapidly into the county, and at the present time probably exceeds 7,500.

The east line of Cowley County passes along the summit of the high range known as the flint hills. From this summit westward the surface slopes gradually to Grouse Creek, an average distance of nine miles. From this creek westward fifteen miles to the Walnut River the land is mostly rolling prairie. Along the Walnut Valley are bottom lands of considerable width, and westward the land is rolling. From this valley to the Arkansas River and west line of the county, the distance is about nine miles. Along the Arkansas River is another wide bottom.

The general surface of the county is undulating, with frequent rocky bluffs, ridges, or mounds which relieve the landscape and give a picturesque appearance. Some of these elevations are very beautiful and attractive. They are formed of magnesian limestone, sometimes interspersed with flint, mostly covered with sand. The uplands and slopes are very fertile, producing a heavy growth of fine grass for the mower.

The bottoms produce thick grass three to five feet high, with stalks of "blue joint" more thinly interspersed, which rise to the height of seven to ten feet. There are no marshes, sloughs, or stagnant pools of water in the county, but there are a few small ponds of clear spring water.

At least five-sixths of the county is excellent arable land and the balance is valuable for grazing purposes.

The experience of two summers and three winters since the "oldest inhabitant" entered Cowley County shows it to have a most delightful climate. During the winter of 1870 and 1871, which may be considered at least as cold as an average winter, the thermometer never indicated below zero; snow fell but twice to the depth of not over two inches, and remained not over two days. The thickest ice formed was about three inches. The weather most of the time is bright and pleasant, with occasional showers of rain, very like April weather in New England. The winter just passed has been noted for its great severity throughout the entire west, and ice has been formed at one time seven or eight inches thick. Snow has fallen three times; once to the depth of four inches, remaining three days, and the mercury in two or three instances descended below zero. In other respects it resembled the former winter, and farmers were engaged in plowing as early as February 12th.

In summer the weather is warm, the mercury sometimes rises to 96 but there is always a light breeze which prevents the heat from becoming oppressive.

Storms or showers of rain occur quite regularly once in about seven to twelve days at all seasons of the year; there has been no interval of drouth and crops have not suffered for want of rain. In the driest time the dews are heavy and regular every clear night. The skies are usually clear and the nights are always cool. The winds are sometimes very strong, but nothing like a tornado has occurred, and no damage has been done by the winds.

The soil of Cowley County is mostly a mellow clay loam, interspersed with sand, and enriched by the disintegration and washings of the magnesian limestone of the hills and ridges. The sand, however, is not in any considerable percentage except in the subsoil, and in the formation made by the deposits of the Arkansas River.

Along this river the soil is largely sand, which has been transplanted by the stream from the sand bluffs of Colorado. The soil in all other parts of the county is black on the surface, shading into mulatto and red as you go downwards into the earth. Small spots of gray clay sometimes occur, but spots of what is called "hard pan" or "alkali," if they occur at all, are very small and very rare. The soil is usually very deep, from two to fifteen feet. If the soil should ever get old and worn out, there is plenty of gypsum, or plaster of Paris handy (which the eastern farmers will readily appreciate) with which to stimulate it.

Cowley is as yet too new to have been thoroughly tried by experience as to its capabilities of producing many kinds of grasses, cereals, vegetables, and fruits. From its superior soil and climate, however, it is safe to assume that everything that flourishes in the same latitudes to the eastward in Kansas or Missouri will do at least as well here. It is in the belt which produces the best crops of wheat, corn, blue grass, apples, peaches, pears, grapes, strawberries, etc., that are obtained in the United States.

Every species of agricultural or horticultural production that has been sufficiently tried, has proved a success. Corn yields on the soil even on the uplands 20 to 40 bushels per acres. In the bottoms on cultivated land the corn crop is equal to that of any section of the Union; stalks sometimes growing to the height of seventeen feet, and ten feet up to the first ear.

Cowley County is beautifully supplied with a beautiful white magnesian limestone in convenient layers, which is easily quarried and readily shaped and cut with the chisel, band saw, or hatchet. It is whiter and more compact, but in other respects the same as the famous Junction City stone, which is readily sawed up into slabs of any desired dimensions, in a saw mill. Arrangements are in progress to work a saw mill for this purpose at Winfield. The best of building sand is found in inexhaustible quantities. This magnesian limestone makes a lime of unusual coherence and whiteness. Ledges of Gypsum of the finest quality and excellent water lime are found within twenty miles of Winfield.

There is plenty of good brick clay in various parts of the county and some brick have been manufactured of good quality. It is expected that enough brick will be made at Winfield this year to supply all demands.

Plenty of hardwood lumber can be had at the various saw mills in the county at $2.00 to $2.50 per 100 feet. Good Walnut and Cottonwood shingles are sold at $4 to $5 per M. Pine shingles are sold at Winfield at $6 to $10 per M.

Large stocks of pine lumber are kept at Winfield and sold at $3 to $10 per 100 feet. Hardware, glass, sash, doors, oils, paints, etc., are also in full stocks at low prices.

You will require but little fence for some time, as the herd law will be in force. The streams are lined with a supply of oak, walnut, mulberry and other kinds of timber, and rails and posts can be obtained at reasonable prices. Convenient rocky bluffs and quarries will readily supply any amount of enduring material for fences. Osage Orange grows rapidly and will make a good fence in three years at very small expense. Oak, walnut, and even pine boards are not excessively expensive.

The timber along the streams afford a full supply of fuel which can be obtained with slight expense besides the labor of cutting and hauling. Cord word is delivered in Winfield at $3 per cord. Coal is found in some places, but not yet in noticeable quantities except in the eastern part of the county, but there is much geological evidence that it underlies the whole county. Early measures will be taken to test this matter at Winfield.

Water is obtained in abundance in almost every part of the county by digging to the depth of 10 to 40 feet. At Winfield, the county seat, many wells have been made to the depth of about twenty feet, and the supply of water seems inexhaustible.

Here is found a black and red soil 15 feet deep, then clay and gravel and sand two feet, then bed rock. The gravel and sand strata contains the supply of water, which is pure and clear. There are numerous springs and spring branches in all parts of the county; in fact, when traveling in any direction, you cross a clear stream in every two to four miles.

This stream is perhaps the most beautiful in Kansas. Rising in the upland in the southern part of Chase and Marion counties, fed by numerous branches from the flint range on the east, and the Arkansas divide on the west, and running nearly due south their entire length, it constitutes the main artery of Butler and Cowley counties.

Its length is over 100 miles and it enters the Arkansas River near the south line of the State. Its average distance from the west line of Cowley County is nine or ten miles, and in this county it is 150 feet wide and two feet deep at the lowest stage of water. Its tributaries being fed by thousands of springs, it always flows with a good, strong, clear current. It passes over a pebbly, stony bed, and has several rapids and first-class mill sites. It is beautifully lined with timber in large bodies, and the best varieties; in fact, it is the best timbered stream in Southern Kansas. Among the varieties of timber along its banks are found plenty of walnut, oak, mulberry, pecan, elm, hackberry, sycamore, cottonwood, and locust. Adjacent to this stream are some of the richest bottom lands in the State. These bottoms lie about forty to fifty feet higher than the usual surface of the water in the river; they are not wet; have no pools of standing water, and they never get too dry, and the soil is of such a nature as to give them not only underdrainage, but sub irrigation. This stream, like all other streams in the county, affords plenty of excellent fish.

This stream. though much the largest, is only second to the Walnut in importance in this section of the country. It is a wide stream filled with shifting sands, its channel shifting often and its current turbid; it is a disagreeable stream to cross; yet it is forded for the most part of the year. When at its lowest stage of water, it almost entirely disappears in the sand. Its banks have considerable cottonwood timber, and occasionally are found trees of elm, oak, and other varieties.

The soil of the bottoms along this river is mostly of a sandy loam to a great depth, yet very productive; but the second bottoms and slopes being retired from the stream are considered much more valuable.

This stream, the third in importance, is 45 miles long; rises in the southwest corner of Greenwood County, runs in a direction S., S. W., through the eastern part of Cowley County, and enters the Arkansas at the south line. It is lined with timber and bottom lands, and like all the smaller streams of this county, runs in a clear, rapid current, over a stony bed.

Silver Creek is its principal tributary from the north, and Crab Creek from the east.

Timber Creek rises in the southeast corner of Butler County, and running southwest, enters the Walnut at Winfield. It is 35 miles long, and is a clear stream, lined with timber and bottom lands. Dutch Creek is its principal tributary from the north, and enters Timber Creek 8 miles above Winfield, and partakes of its character. Rock Creek is a considerable stream, which rises in Butler County, and running southwest, enters the Walnut 11 miles above Winfield. Many other smaller streams and branches of like characters might be noticed.

This town is the county seat of Cowley, and if we except Independence, it is much the largest and liveliest town on the Diminished Reserve, is the largest town in the Great Walnut Valley, and if we except Wichita, Winfield is the largest town in southwestern Kansas.

Eldorado and Wichita, though the county seats of splendid counties, larger than Cowley, and marvels of growth, and though one to three years older, are scarcely larger and not near so lively as Winfield. Independence, the wonder of southern Kansas, is one year older than Winfield, and the county seat of a splendid county, settled one year earlier than Cowley, was not larger a year ago than Winfield is today.

Winfield is 75 miles west of Independence, 45 miles south of Eldorado, 32 miles south of Augusta, and 45 miles S., S. E. of Wichita.

Winfield has, in the last eighteen months, grown up from an open prairie to a town of 160 business and residence buildings, and a population of about 700.

Winfield has 8 dry goods stores, 8 grocery stores, 3 drug stores, 3 hardware stores, 1 auction store, 3 meat shops, 3 saloons, 3 hotels, 2 tin shops, 1 harness shop, 2 shoe shops, 3 livery stables, 3 blacksmith shops, 3 bakeries, 3 wagon shops, 5 carpenter shops, 3 paint shops, 1 photograph hall, 1 bank, 2 churches, 1 clothing store, 2 cabinet shops, 1 millinery shop, 1 news depot, 1 silversmith shop, 1 wholesale liquor store, 4 land offices, 1 barber shop, a temporary courthouse, 2 lumber yards; and in fact, nearly all the trades and professions are liberally represented. There are 5 church organizations, 1 Masonic lodge, 1 odd fellows lodge, besides literary and other societies. There is an excellent and large public school, besides Sunday schools and other means of instruction.

The buildings of Winfield are of a good, substantial class, and well painted: most of them white. Some of the buildings are of magnesian limestone, from the adjacent quarries, and several others are about to be erected of the same material. Among the buildings to be erected this season is a schoolhouse to cost $5,000, a courthouse, a flour mill, a large first class hotel, and many fine business and residence structures.

Winfield has one of the most beautiful sites in the west.

It is located on the east side of Walnut River, near the confluence of Timber Creek, on smooth rising ground, gently undulating, in an open space two miles square, bounded on the north, west, and south by fine groves of timber along Walnut River and Timber Creek, and the east by a line of beautiful mounds.

There are no less than 5 excellent water power mill sites within one mile of the center of the Winfield town site.

Winfield has an intelligent and wide awake class of businessmen who keep full stocks of various kinds of merchandise, and do a large business. The streets are usually crowded with teams on almost every day of the week.

Winfield is midway between the north and south lines of the county in the best part of the Walnut Valley, and about 9 miles east of the west line of the county. It is supplied with several daily, tri-weekly, and weekly mails.

This is the second town in size in the county, and is situated near the confluence of the Walnut with the Arkansas River, 13 miles S., S. W., of Winfield. It is 4 miles north of the Indian Territory, and six miles east of the west line of the county. It is beautifully situated on a fine sandy eminence, and presents an attractive appearance.

The third town in importance, is located on Grouse Creek, 15 miles E., S. E. of Winfield. It has good stores, and good substantial buildings, among which is a fine Masonic hall just completed, and a schoolhouse to cost $3,000, is soon to be erected.

Silverdale is a post town at the confluence of Silver Creek with the Grouse, 14 miles southeast of Winfield. It has a good store and other buildings.

Lazette is a town just laid out on Grouse Creek 20 miles E. N. E. of Winfield. A saw mill is at work there, a store and other buildings are commenced, and a representation of nearly all kinds of business are expected.

Ninescah is a post town, near the Arkansas River, 12 miles northwest of Winfield. It has several substantial buildings.

Tisdale is a post town on the rolling prairie 8 miles east of Winfield. It has a store, blacksmith shop, and other buildings.

Floral is a post office at the junction of Dutch and Timber Creeks, 8 miles northeast of Winfield.

Omnia is a post office on Timber Creek 20 miles northeast of Winfield.

Little Dutch is a post office in the Walnut Valley 11 miles north of Winfield.

Thomasville is a new town site, located near the Arkansas River 8 miles southwest of Winfield.

These places are, of course, only incipient towns at this early day, but some of them are likely to become places of some importance.

Cowley County is divided into convenient school districts and in all or nearly all of them good schoolhouses are in process of erection. The settlers of this county believe in schools and show a determination that the young Cowleyites shall have the means of good education within their reach.

Most Christian sects are represented, and there are church organizations in various parts of the county.

Two weekly papers are published in this county, the Winfield MESSENGER and the Arkansas TRAVELER, and are well edited. The MESSENGER is a seven column paper and is in a flourishing condition.

There are excellent salt springs near the Arkansas River 12 miles southwest of Winfield, which will doubtless be developed and become a great convenience and source of revenue.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

Come to Cowley County, select 160 acres of land from the 300,000 acres yet unclaimed, camp on it, and go to work. Raise plenty of vegetables and corn the first year on the sod without culture or fence, protected by the herd law.

Fence a field with stone, rails, or boards to yard your stock in, and if you have but little stock, large enough to pasture them. If you have much stock, you can afford to join with your neighbors and herd them. Set out plenty of fruit, shade, and forest trees and you will soon have plenty of fruit and timber.

Put out your hedge rows and grow your fence in three years. Within three months of settlement file a declaratory statement at the United States Land Office, and within a year prove up and pay $200, and you are the owner of a valuable farm. In selecting your claim, do not fear being long without neighbors. Doubtless nearly every quarter section in the county will be occupied within a year.

Do not fear that the surrounding country will fall into the hands of speculators, for these lands are only sold to actual settlers, and to no one more than 160 acres, so you are sure of being immediately surrounded by neighbors. If you desire the choice of locations in the county, you can buy choice farms at low prices.

There are always many of the earliest settlers of any new country who have secured the claims having the extra advantages of timber, streams flowing perpetually, rich bottom lands, and nearness to some important town, who have no means to improve their farms, or who are of a roving disposition and desire frequent change, or who dislike to live among neighbors, or who are homesick or in ill health, and have friends in the East, urging their return, who will sell their farms at comparatively low prices. Such farms may be sometimes bought at $4 to $6 per acre. Other farms with less extra advantages can be bought at $2 to $4. It is true, however, that some persons would ask fancy prices for their farms, and some who would not sell at any figures that any sane man would offer.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

If you come by public conveyance from the East or Northeast, take the L. L. & G. and M. K. & T. R. R. to Independence, and thence by daily stage 75 miles West to Winfield. If you come via Topeka, take the A. T. & S. F. R. R. to Florence, and thence by daily stage 75 miles South to Winfield.

It is expected that this railroad will be completed to Wichita early in April; when this is done, you will proceed by rail to Wichita, thence by stage, 45 miles, S. S. E. to Winfield.

There are good wagon roads converging at Winfield from Wichita Southeast, from Eldorado and Augusta South, from Eureka Southwest, from Humboldt West, Southwest, and from Independence, Neodosha, Fredonia, and Elk Falls nearly West.

Bring all the GREENBACKS you can.

They will buy for you almost anything you want at less cost than you can buy elsewhere and transport to this county. You can buy in Winfield most kinds of merchandise at about the same prices that you would pay in the older States and towns, and then you have the advantage of knowing precisely what you want before you invest, for many things that are very useful where you have been living, will be found of so little use here, that you would not buy.

Do not bring heavy or bulky articles of furniture if you can sell them at an approximation to their value, nor if of little value, though you have otherwise to give them away. If you come from contiguous States, bring your team and wagon, and as much fine and blooded stock as you can. Bring your wife and children; you will readily find temporary shelter for them, or they will enjoy camping in the warm spring and summer months, until you can get your cabin covered. You will be astonished to find yourself immediately surrounded by plenty of neighbors, good society, good schools and churches.

There is no lack of projected railroads, and no doubt that the country will be supplied with them in a reasonable time. From the East, Northeast, and North, through this county are several routes on which railroads can be built at not unusual cost, and the rapidly increasing importance of the business of this county will soon enlist the capital for that purpose. Already a dozen different railroad companies have made propositions to build through the county, and several roads are progressing rapidly in this direction.

Among the routes most likely to be occupied with roads are, the Walnut Valley road, passing through Eldorado, Augusta, Douglass, Winfield, and Arkansas City; the L. L. & G. from Kansas City, via Ottawa, Burlington, Eureka, and Independence, being almost an air line; the New Chicago & Fredonia, via Lazette, Winfield, and Thomasville, almost an air line; the M. & S. K., from Carthage, Mo., via Columbus, Oswego, Independence, Elk Falls, Winfield, and the county seats west, and the road via Baxter, Chetopa, Coffeyville, Cedarvale, Dexter, Tisdale, and Winfield westward.

This is destined soon to become one of the most populous and opulent counties in the State.

Aside from its great natural advantages, it has elements of greatness found nowhere else but on this Osage Diminished Reservation, and the Osage strip lying immediately north of it.

In other parts of Kansas, and throughout the west, the lands have been largely entered, in any quantity by whoever desired, and therefore large bodies of land are entered by speculators and being held by them at high prices, the lands remain unsettled, or having only a few scattered settlers, away from society or markets, who would gladly sell out and leave.

In other parts also the government has made large land grants to railroads, and these lands are withheld from settlement, or only offered at prices ranging at $5 to $50 per acre. But here no land grants have been made, and no one can enter more than 160 acres, nor without proof of having occupied it six months and having made valuable improvements; the result is that the country fills up at once with a family on nearly every quarter section of land.

Montgomery, on this Reserve, is an example of this state of things. It being the most eastern of these counties, was earliest invaded by the settlers; and though only about half the size of Cowley, it has now a population greater than anyone of the old counties of the State, except those containing large commercial cities, and Independence, its county seat, is one of the large towns of Kansas. Cowley County is only a year younger and has every natural advantage possessed by the otherand even greaterand the day when Cowley shall contain a population of 40,000, and Winfield a population in proportion, cannot be very distant. The advantages of living in a thickly populated country can hardly be overestimated.

In Union there is strength. There you have markets, schools, and all the appliances of civilization. There, whatever you produce, whatever you have to sell, whether labor or skill, the productions of the farm or the garden; whether it be mineral or land, it always finds a ready market at round prices, and yields a large profit. There railroads, mills, factories, and bridges are built; there laborers, mechanics, farmers, men in every calling and profession are prosperous.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

The Cowley County Agricultural Society was fully organized by representatives from all parts of the county August 17th, 1871, with the following offices.

President, M. M. Jewett; Vice Presidents, A. T. Stewart and B. C. Swarts, Secretary, D. N. Egbert, Jr.; Assistant Secretary, A. B. Lemmon; Corresponding Secretary, J. B. Fairbanks; Treasurer, J. D. Cochran; General Superintendent, C. M. Wood; Assistant General Superintendent, A. D. Speed; and with a Board of thirteen Directors.

Its first annual fair commenced October 12th, 1871, though late in the season and attended with very inclement weather, was a very creditable affair, and attested the fact that the Society was a success.

The land consisting of twenty acres, the gift of Messrs. W. W. Andrews and A. D. Speed, situated three-fourths of a mile from Winfield, is admirably adapted for the purposes of the society. The society has been in correspondence with farmers in all parts of the county, and the report has invariably been that all crops were a success the past season, and that the present grain crops promise well.

At this date many farmers are plowing and otherwise preparing for spring. On looking over our prairies in all parts of the county we notice a numberless growth of young trees of all our native kinds.

The introduction of forest, fruit, and fancy trees has been very great, and almost every farmer that has not done so already will, the coming spring, set out an orchard. The laws of the State give every man $2 a year for each acre of forest trees for twenty-five years, and the same amount for every half-mile of the same planted along the public highway, not more than one rod apart, provided the trees shall be cultivated, growing three years before the bounty begins.

The next annual fair will be held in September, at the above named grounds.

The limited space allotted to us cannot be better employed than append a price list of articles that most interest farmers and others intending to emigrate.

Apple trees (1 year) $8 per 100.

Apple trees (2 year) $15 per 100.

Pear and Plum trees, 40 cents each.

Peach trees, 10 cents a piece.

Quince trees, 50 cents.

Grape vines, $2 per dozen.

Raspberries, $1.50 per dozen.

Strawberries, $2.00 per dozen.

Honey, 25 cents per pound.

Osage Orange seed, 30 cents per pound.

Lime, 40 cents per bushel.

Plows, breaking, 18 inch, $36.

Plows, stirring, 14 inch, $19.

Harness, double, $25 to $30.

Horses, $75 to $125; Oxen $10 to $15.

Milch cows, $35 to $45; wagons $50 to $110.

Potatoes (best seed), $1.50.

Tomatoes, cooking, 75 cents to $1.00.

Turnips, 25 cents.

Corn, 35 to 55 cents.

Oats, 55 cents.

Cornmeal, $1.50.

Flour, $5.

Beans, per bushel, $2.00 to $2.50.

Butter, best, 35 cents.

Eggs, 20 cents.

Hay, per ton, $2.50.

Solid walnut furniture, from first-class mechanics, are as low in price here as in the East, and better made.

The above prices include the best in the market.

Winfield, Kans. Feb. 20, 1872.

[WINFIELD MESSENGER: FIRST PAPER LISTED BY HISTORICAL SOCIETY.]

VOLUME 2. WINFIELD, KANSAS, FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 1872. NUMBER 28.

OFFICIAL PAPER OF COWLEY COUNTY.

W. H. KERNS, EDITOR.

[EDITORIAL.]

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

The Commissioners will meet on the 18th of this month, to consider this subject; and it could be well for all in favor of such a law to have their petitions ready for the Commissioners to consider. That we need such a law is desired, but by a comparative few; yet we doubt not but that they will be prepared to fight against having such a law. When men will stop to consider the great benefits that will naturally follow from having such a law, they will find that it will increase immigration to this county; it will give our farmers a chance to raise large crops the coming seasonit will encourage industry among the farmers insofar that they can devote all their time and attention to the improvement of their farms, and they will endeavor each year to fence as much of their land as they can in order that their stock may have a larger range; and that it will raise our county's standard for being one of energy, home protection, and enterprise, will not be denied by those who are the most bitter against such law. All these things will naturally follow. At the present the people wanting this law must convince the Commissioners next Monday of that fact.

[ANOTHER EDITORIAL.]

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

The prospects of Winfield at this time are, indeed, flattering. An election will soon be called in the township for voting bonds to build two bridges over the Walnut; and a bridge will be constructed over Timber Creek without bonds. The bonds will be voted, and the bridges will be built.

A large four-story Flouring Mill, containing four run of stone, is to be built the present season. The admirable water power at "Knowle's ford," has been purchased for the site, and the gentlemen controlling it have the capital and experience to make it first class. It is to be built of stone, like our splendid school buildings, and will, with other improvements to be made this season, fill the people of Cowley County with pride of their capital town. The citizens of Winfield are full of enterprise. They spend no time in envious bickerings with neighboring towns. They do not expect to build up a town by pulling down a rival.

And this course of action has already placed their town, Winfield, beyond the pale of rivalry. Our leading men possess both ability and indefatigable perseverance.

Our merchants, though carrying stock which would honor Fort Scott, are honorable men and pay their debts. The mercantile agents who travel the county for the wholesale firms of eastern cities, report Winfield is the banner town in the county for trade and pay. And in addition to this, some new firms are coming in with stocks of goods that would do credit to Leavenworth, or Kansas City.

Among our mechanics, of all kinds, we have those who are first class. The same may be said of the profession. Our bar will probably compare favorably with that of any county in Southern Kansas.

We learn that Alexander & Saffold will purchase one thousand dollars worth of Law books in Philadelphia soon, to add to their already fair library. This will be a great help to the whole bar.

An extensive brick yard has already been started, and several are making their plans to erect brick buildings at once. In fact, we feel enthusiastic over our prospects. And we desire the people of the whole county to rejoice with us.

For to the farmers we say that, here is your market, and the larger your town becomes, the cheaper you will be able to purchase goods, and the better will be the market for your productions. And again, in proportion as your market town grows into importance will it be sought by the railroad interests of the county.

Gentleman Farmers, you cannot subserve your interests better than to give your friendship and aid to help us make up a great commercial town.

NOTE: FROM A LETTER WRITTEN BY JAS. B. EVANS, VERNON TOWNSHIP, FEB. 31, 1872, WHO WAS FOR THE HERD LAW, I GATHER THAT THIS WAS DEFINITELY THE FIRST ISSUE OF THE MESSENGER NEWSPAPER.

THERE WERE A LOT OF ROAD NOTICES, SCHOOL LAND SALES, NOTICES OF ATTACHMENT, ETC. IN PAPER...I DID NOT COPY.

[ITEMS ABOUT HOME.] (NAME OF COLUMN)

Winfield Messenger, Friday, March 15, 1872.

Windy as usual.

Last Saturday was a busy day.

We will publish the Herd Law next week.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

See the notice of a meeting of the County Commissioners to take action upon the Herd Law on the 18th of March.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

AT WORK. The stone masons are at work laying stone on the foundation of our new stone schoolhouse. The work is progressing rapidly.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

Elder Womack, of the Christian Church, will preach on Sunday, March 25th, at 11 o'clock a.m. Services will be held at the M. E. Church in Winfield.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

NEW STONE HOUSE. We notice that another new stone dwelling house is in progress of erection by SOMEBODY (?) on Tenth avenue east of Main street.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

CITIES OF THE THIRD CLASS. An amendment to the old law will now let cities of the third class organize at any time during the year. Winfield will be on hand at an early day.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

A BLOW OVER. Mr. J. Smiley's carpenter shop that he erected but partially, blew over on last Tuesday. It was a small building and was not braced. The wind did not need to exert its strength very hard to blow it over.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

The Winfield Dramatic and Literary Association is still in full blast and affords a very pleasant evening's entertainment. They meet every Friday evening at 7-1/2 o'clock. All are invited to attend.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

A protracted meeting of the Christian Church will commence on Sunday, the 27th of March, 1872, conducted by J. H. Irvin and T. W. Cottingham, at the residence of Capt. H. L. Barker, seven miles north of Winfield, on Timber Creek.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

THE NEW GRIST MILL. Winfield can soon claim one of the finest mills in the State. Mr. Blanden, of this place, and Mr. Myers, of Paola, are the gentlemen who have it in hand and they will soon start to work on the erection of a fine four story stone building.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

THE NEW BRIDGES. Two new bridges across the Walnut will be built the coming spring at this place. The people in this Township will all vote for the bonds and they all recognize that we must have these bridges, for they will not only benefit the town but will benefit all who live in the township and trade at Winfield.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

FIRE! FIRE! Mr. Bartlow's saw mill caught on fire last Tuesday while the hands in charge of the mill were at dinner. The alarm was quickly given and the fire speedily extinguished. It was rather lucky that the mill was on low ground for the day was one of the most windy that we have had this spring.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

The Christians hold prayer meetings every Sunday afternoon at the different members' residences. The meeting was held on last Sabbath at the residence of Mr. W. H. H. Maris. ________ then given out, with a cordial invitation for all who desired to participate in the worship of Christ to meet at the residence of W. H. Kerns, at half past 3 o'clock p.m., on next Sabbath, March 17th, 1872.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

THE MOUNDS. East of town a mile and a half there are beautiful rows of gentle uprising mounds. The people owning this land are burning off the grass, and the fire, after night, illuminates the town beautifully. These same mounds will one day be the pride of Winfield. Let the persons owning them plant out hedges and trees, and they will not only ornament the town and surroundings, but they will bring three-fold more money to their possessors than the labor would be worth.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

CITIZENS MEETINGS. These are still in progress, they meet every Saturday evening, and are doing a good work. From these meetings we have the improvements of the town and its surroundings kept in continual progress. Do not let your interests in these projects abate, but all turn out next Saturday evening and forward the good work thus begun.

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

Persons in setting out shade trees on the street, should set them nine feet from the lot on all streets except Main street, and on Main street they should be set fifteen feet from the lot.

THOSE CIRCULARS. We have published over four thousand of them at the present, and people in the county are clamoring for more. Some of the settlers mailed as high as fifty at one time. It would be well if the committee who had charge of collecting the funds and distributing the circulars would make some arrangement for the printing of the balance of the ten thousand. At the present we are waiting for paper which should have been here before this.

PERSONAL. Our old boy, I. L. Comfort, called on us the other day, good-natured, happy, and contented as ever, and says he did not feel better at twelve than he does now at sixty-one. He thinks the Winfield House is a good place to live. He is in house-joiner business: saws wood for gentlemen. We heartily recommend him as a good mechanic, who can fit a small stove as well as a large one.

THE BAPTIST CHURCH. We are glad to announce to the public that this fine stone building will soon be completed. The carpenters have laid the floor, the windows will all be in this week, and the plasterers will finish their work very soon. There are some of our citizens who have labored hard for the completion of this edifice of worship, and they merit the best wishes of the public, for the church is certainly one that the citizens will feel proud in having to adorn their town.

[DEATHS.]

Winfield Messenger, March 15, 1872.

D. Howard Hawkins [?], of Vernon Township, Cowley Co., Kansas, aged 27 years and 11 months...Jan. 9th, 1872. GAVE UP ON TRYING TO READ THIS ONE!

[NOTE: WINFIELD MESSENGER...MARCH 22, 1872 - JUNE 21, 1872...

IS MISSING! ACCORDING TO MICROFILM SENT!]

NEXT ISSUE THAT APPEARS:

WINFIELD MESSENGER.

VOL. 2 WINFIELD, KANSAS, FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 1872. NO. 43.

W. H. KERNS, EDITOR.

[EDITORIAL.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The Traveler in commenting upon the fact that the Winfield merchants sell cheaper than the Arkansas City merchants has the following:

"We understand that the enemies of Arkansas City are industriously circulating the report that goods can be purchased at Winfield and at Oxford cheaper than they can be bought here. We don't believe there is a word of truth in the report. Goods of a good quality are sold in Arkansas City and sold as cheaply as anywhere else in the county. During the late high water, which prevented many of the people east of the Walnut from coming here to do their trading, some were compelled to go to Winfield, and, we are told, received special favor from the merchants, for the purpose of inducing them to return. They were indecently fawned upon, and in some instances goods were sold at less than cost, to create this false impression. We trust that our friends will not be deceived by these pretenses. Such inducements held out, and for such dishonest purposes, will be looked upon by all right thinking people as they deserve. And, besides, it don't pay to trade with such people. What they lose by this excessive generosity they are always sure to make up on other goods at other times."

It is rather a bitter pill for them, to know that the Winfield merchants are men of more business than they possess in their little hamlet. Our leading merchants have but one price and when the Editor of that juicy sheet informs the people that "they were indecently fawned upon," he tells a malicious falsehood. We will inform the people of that renounced and famous sand hill village, that people come here from your section oftener in low water than in high, and they always pay the same price for the same goods. Our merchants are all respectable gentlemen and they do not try to "fleece" a man out of all the money he may have, besides none of them have been closed up or sold out at sheriffs' sale as yet. That's the difference between the Winfield and Arkansas City merchants.

[CITIZEN'S MEETING.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Agreeable to appointment a number of citizens met at the courthouse in Winfield to take measures for holding a celebration. After considerable discussion it was decided not to celebrate at Winfield, whereupon a committee, consisting of Messrs. Walton, Boyle, and Bryant, was appointed to procure teams for the accommodation of persons wishing to attend celebrations elsewhere.

A sufficient quality of powder was donated for the national salute, to be given at day- break on the morning of the fourth, and a committee was appointed to superintend the firing.

The meeting then took into consideration the subject of

in which much interest was manifested by all present. On motion, J. B. Fairbank, S. H. Myton, and A. T. Stewart were appointed as a committee to draft petitions and circulate them.

On motion the meeting adjourned. J. D. COCHRAN, Chairman.

ALBERT YALE, Secretary.

[ITEM OF INTEREST TO SETTLERS.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

EDITOR MESSENGER: I fear many of the settlers, through a misunderstanding of the late act of Congress, will allow the time to pass at which they should prove up and enter their lands.

All parties whose date of settlement is subsequent to July 15th, 1870, and before the filing of the Government township plat in the local Land Office, must make proof within one year from the date of such filing of the plats. The plats of the Osage Diminished Reserve, as far east, and including range four, were filed in the Land Office then at Augusta July 10th, 1871.

This is as I understand the law, and as it is understood at the Land Office at Wichita.

[LETTER FROM WALTON.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Some forty or fifty legal voters and land owners living in town and in the Walnut Valley north of town, some weeks ago petitioned for a county road commencing at the northwest corner of section 16, at a point on the Oxford road, immediately north of Winfield, thence running south to the southwest corner of Judge T. H. Johnson's farm, thence east on his south line to a point north of the present ford on Timber Creek, thence south till it intersects the Winfield and Augusta State road, thence on said road to Winfield.

Viewers were duly appointed who viewed the route as petitioned for, and reported that the route was a good and practical one, but of no public utility, not convenient for the use of the general traveling community, because the present State road running so near and parallel with it would answer every purpose that the proposed County road would.

But when we take in view the fact that the State road runs diagonally thro' section 16, entering at the northwest and leaving at the southeast corner, and that a heavy petition is before the "Board" to move that road to the east or west line of said section 16, then we must admit that the farmers living in the bend of the Walnut north and west of Mr. Johnson's farm must have a road by which to come to town, and the shortest route by one mile is on the line petitioned for.

Mr. Johnson claimed heavy damage, and we think very justly too, for running the road on his west and south line, as it cuts off an 80 acre lot recently added to his home place, and causes him to build three fourths of a mile of extra fence, and injures a very fine farm by having a public road run through it.

Now the question is, can we of Winfield afford to lose the custom and patronage of twenty or thirty of our best farmers, living so near and yet so far away from us, for the simple reason that they can't have a direct road to town?

Three fourths of the wood we burn in winter is hauled from the valley north of town. Now must we pay for hauling it one or two miles farther, when we haven't a more direct road? Certainly we must, or do without it.

Then again, Oxford is bridging the Arkansas River, and a high, dry road connects that place with the starting point mentioned in the petition. Her businessmen are doing all they can to draw custom away from Winfield, and our friends up the Walnut feeling a little sore over the failure of their road project, are going en masse to Oxford to spend the 4th, where they can and will be treated with all the respect due to the farmer, "the lord of the soil."

Now to be brief, we have the interests of one individual on one side and that of several of our best farmers in the county, and the businessmen of the town, and the town interests generally upon the other to look after and take into consideration. Had we better not then allow Judge Johnson liberal damages and have a good and direct road to town and keep peace and harmony between town and country, than to have continual strife between citizens whose interests are one and the same? I think we had. Then I would suggest that at the July meeting of the County Commissioners, they appoint a new board of viewers, to take that matter into consideration, and act as in their judgment they may deem best for all parties interested. Respectfully, WALTON.

Winfield, June 25th, 1872.

[TOWN AND COUNTY.] (NAME OF COLUMN HAS BEEN CHANGED)

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

WEATHER. Hot, hotter, hottest.

The irrepressible Speed has returned from Emporia.

Another meat market has opened in the south end of town.

Many of our citizens propose spending the fourth at Oxford.

Prospective county officers are already throwing out "feelers."

Judge Saffold has gone East. He will attend the Baltimore Convention.

A great many farmers are cutting their oats: they are a good crop this season.

Three loads of new furniture for the Winfield House came in last Wednesday.

Mr. A. T. Stewart went to Wichita yesterday on business for the Agricultural Society.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

"To Kansas or bust" was painted on several wagons that passed through town last Tuesday.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The County Commissioners will meet next Monday, and will probably sit two or three days.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

M. P. Dale starts for Topeka next Monday. His wife will go from there to her old home in Indiana.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

McClure, the heavy lumberman of Wichita, was in town last Saturday. He thinks of starting a yard here.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Samples of fall wheat are being brought in. The heads are well filled and the straw is clear and bright.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Mr. Greenlee has been in Independence to receive his family. He installs them in their new home in Cowley.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The rafters were raised on the schoolhouse this week, and the carpenters will have it completed within a month.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Capt. Hunt came up from South Haven last Tuesday. He reports everything lovely in that el dorado of Southern Kansas.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Land in different parts of the county that has heretofore been regarded as too rough to be settled is all being taken up.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Twenty teams are continually passing through town loaded with rock for the new mill foundations and the bridge piers.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

FATAL ACCIDENT. Mr. C. A. Louis, of Oxford, was killed last Tuesday near that place, by the falling in of a well in which he was at work.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Mr. Bisbee has built himself a neat shoe shop on Main street near Bliss & Co.'s store. It looks very cozy, and we expect he will make the shoe-pegs hop around lively.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Mrs. Mansfield would have the person who wrote her an anonymous letter to distinctly understand that she shall never peruse a communication from anyone in cognito.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Messrs. Blandin & Bliss are going ahead with their mill project and will have it completed early next winter. From five to twenty loads of rock for it passes our office every day.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

DIED. A child of A. A. Jackson and lady, died yesterday, June 27th, 1872. Funeral services took place this afternoon. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson have the sympathy of many friends.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Mr. C. A. Bliss has returned from a trip to the Territory, and has brought with him a fine lot of horses and ponies. Persons needing such should avail themselves of this opportunity.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

There are now seventy-five school districts established in this county, thirty of which have schools in successful operation. Eighteen months ago the county contained nothing of the kind.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

J. B. Fairbank will address the people of Pleasant Valley on the fourth. Judge Johnson and other legal lights have been called on to orate to the people of surrounding towns on that glorious day.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Several businessmen from Wichita, who were in town last Saturday, expressed their surprise at seeing so many teams and people on our streets. They were all very favorably impressed with Winfield.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

NEW MAILS. After the first of July there will be two additional mails a week between Elk Falls and Winfield, making five mails per week from Elk Falls. There will also be a weekly mail from Winfield to Oxford, beginning July first.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Rev. Mr. Parmelee will preach at the M. E. Church next Sunday, at 11 o'clock. All members of the Congregational Church are requested to be present, and remain after services to attend to some matters concerning the organization.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The frame of a building being erected by Mrs. Bullen for a millinery establishment was torn down last Monday night and part of it carried out into the street. The structure was put up again on Tuesday and parties interested hoped that a repetition of the previous night's work would be attempted, but the villains failed to make their appearance.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

AN OCTOGENARIAN'S BIRTHDAY. We have had the pleasure of reading a very interesting notice of a birthday party of Mrs. Mansfield's father, Mr. John Crocker, of Syracuse, New York, who is eighty-three years of age, and in good health. He is a veteran of the war of 1812, and several of his old comrades were present on the occasion. What changes and what marvelous progress has he seen during all these years. Not a railroad, canal, steamboat or telegraph was brought to any perfection, and little known in the early part of his life. Mr. Crocker and his men laid the first rail ever laid in the state of New York, in June, 1831. This was the Mohawk & Hudson River Railroad, and for many years the only road in the State. He had charge of important works in constructing the Chenango canal, and remained in business for the State several years following. The daughter with whom he lives is evidently desirous to cheer his declining years, and as a token of her faithfulness, she has sumptuously entertained a large company for his pleasure. The united age of twelve persons who sat at the first table was 921 years.

[MORE PERSONALS.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The Cowley County Agricultural Society are preparing a pamphlet containing the premium lists and other items connected with the Fair. It will also contain advertisements of the leading business houses of Southern Kansas.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

The Frontier Base Ball Club of this place has challenged the Rackensacks of Arkansas City, to play them a matched game at Oxford, on the fourth.

LATER. The Rackensacks concluded it wasn't "the game for them to win at," so they did not accept the invitation. The Frontiers received a challenge from the Augusta base ball club and will play there the 4th. From there they go to Eldorado and Wichita.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Persons wishing to go to Oxford or Pleasant Valley to spend the 4th will find transportation by calling at Bliss's store. There will be a few teams going to the above named places that have reported, and if there are any others going to the places named or to other points, by calling for passengers will do a kindness to those who have no way of going, and greatly oblige the COMMITTEE.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

FREELAND HOUSE. Mr. Freeland, the landlord of the Winfield House, is now in other quarters. He is fitted up nicely in his new building just north of the Winfield House, and is prepared to accommodate all of his old customers and as many new ones as come to the country. The new house is fitly named the Freeland House; and the landlord's reputation for keeping a first class hotel will always make this hotel sought after by strangers.

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

SCHONEAN OATS. A stalk of oats was left at our office this week, raised on the farm of W. adjoining town, which measured half an inch in diameter, with head eighteen inches in length, and full grain. The stalk is about three feet and a half in length. The seed was imported from Hamburg, Germany, and was not received until quite late in the season, but from appearance we think it an excellent variety for this climate and soil, and the stem being short and strong, would not be likely to lodge.

[DEATH OF DR. C. L. FLINT.]

Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.

Dr. C. L. Flint, formerly of this city, died at Winfield, Cowley County, in this State, on Saturday, the 15th inst., and was buried the following Sabbath. He was aged about thirty-one years.

The Doctor resided for several years in Fort Scott and in company with Dr. Fuller was engaged in the practice of his profession, dentistry. About two years and a half ago he married Miss Clara Millington, daughter of D. A. Millington, then a merchant in this city.

A year ago last he removed to Winfield, where his father-in-law with his family had previously settled, and has since resided there. His health had been poor for a year or more, but he was seriously ill but a short time, his death being caused by an acute pulmonic attack. He leaves one child, a boy, some over one year old.

The Doctor spent the flower of his early manhood in Fort Scott, and his agreeable social qualities and manly and correct moral principles won him many warm and sincere friends, and in his large circle of acquaintances, he was universally esteemed and respected. His family and friends have the heartfelt sympathy of our entire community in their irreparable bereavement. Fort Scott Monitor.

NEXT ISSUE OF THE WINFIELD MESSENGER APPEARS TWO WEEKS AFTER WARDS, I DO BELIEVE!

Winfield Messenger, Friday. July 12, 1872. [Editorial.]

One pretended objection to the courthouse and jail bonds is, that the county seat might be removed. This is simply ridiculous. The Walnut Valley will always be the center of population, east and west, in Cowley County. In the Walnut Valley will be flourishing stations (for a railroad will soon certainly be built down the valley), and towns along the Walnut River in this county will be built, of which, of course, Winfield and Arkansas City will be chief. And while the Grouse is an excellent valley and will sustain two good towns, the Arkansas Valley is much broader, and will contain the heaviest population.

What object then, outside of the immediate locality of an aspirant for county seat, and outside of enmities founded upon envy and malice, could the people have in changing the county seat? What would be the consequence in so doing? We will tell you. Winfield, alone, will pay for one fourth of the taxes of the whole county the coming year. The faster she grows, the more she lightens the county of taxation. Would it be wise now to kill the goose that lays the golden egg? Why try to cripple and stop the growth of the best town in the county, and one of the best (and soon will be the best), in southern Kansas? What is Winfield doing for the county? She is building bridges for the county, which justly belonged to the county to build, and which the county has the benefit of, which will cost her not less than $13,000. Has Winfield no claim upon the good will of the county? Where can the farmer find a better market in which to buy and sell?

Is it wise for the farmer to destroy his own market? Two splendid grist and flouring mills are being erected at Winfield, where every farmer in time will want to bring his grain. And manufactories will soon follow.

Is it wise for the people to spread a wet blanket on all this prosperity, when they are the direct recipients of all the good and evil done to Winfield?

Bah! The people are not such fools. And the envious discontents can organize an expedition to the planets in a balloon with as much hope of success, as to expect the people of this county to prefer the town of Tisdale to Winfield for county seat. And the people will prefer to apply the $1,000 which a county seat election would cost them to the building of county buildings in Winfield.

[ANOTHER EDITORIAL.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

We have men in this county who become as rabid at the mention of the word bond, as a mad dog at sight of water, and yet those very men find it very convenient to obtain credit some times, on their promise to pay. A bond is no more than a promise to pay and we know of no more harm in a collective number uniting to obtain credit, than for a single individual. The law provides three ways, and only three, by which a county can erect permanent public buildings. One is by a direct tax, and taking a vote upon it, in which case the elector votes a ballot for the erection of public buildings, or against the erection of public buildings. Another is by raising the money by a loan, in which case an election must also be had, and the elector votes "for the loan, or against the loan." The third way is by an election to vote "for the bonds, or against the bonds," and if carried, issue bonds for the purpose.

Now we desire the electors of this county to take a sensible and practical view of this question. This is a great county rapidly filling up with population and wealth. Public buildings are a positive necessity, the idea of building them by a direct tax, no one could stand or tolerate for a moment, to make a "loan" in this county of high interest, and with nothing but county warrants to offer in security, would be impossible. The only way we could borrow, would be to issue bonds to pay the loan, which would be more complicated, and more expensive than to issue bonds directly for the purpose. We think our commissioners know our needs, and have, in the exercise of sound judgments, wisely adopted the best method to procure them.

[JUDICIAL CONVENTION.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

A Convention of the Attorneys of the 13th Judicial District will be held at Winfield, in Cowley County, on the 25th day of July, A. D. 1872, for the purpose of recommending to the District Convention, or Conventions, to be held for that purpose, a Candidate for nomina- tion for Judge of said District to be voted for at the next general election.

W. S. TUCKER. J. T. SHOWALTER.

M. W. SUTTON. J. M. HOOVER.

D. F. BAYLESS. J. B. FAIRBANK.

THOMAS MASON. W. H. KERN.

J. M. McCOLLEN. JOHN REED.

J. J. WINGAR. E. B. KAGER.

R. B. SAFFOLD. E. L. AKIN.

D. N. CALDWELL. A. H. GREEN.

T. T. TILLOTSON. D. S. HEISHEY [?HEISNEY].

L. J. WEBB. JOHN G. TUCKER.

E. S. TORRANCE. REUBEN RIGGS.

J. M. ALEXANDER. S. D. PRYOR.

E. C. MANNING. T. H. JOHNSON.

H. D. LAMB. G. P. GARLAND.

D. DODGE. J. McDERMOTT.

and many others, attorneys of said district.

[A. T. & S. F. R. R.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

This road is within 40 miles of Winfield, and it would be but natural to suppose that goods could be shipped to this place by that route a great deal cheaper than it has cost heretofore, when the railroad was 75 to 80 miles distant. We have been told by some of our businessmen here that it costs less to get goods to Winfield by way of Independence, than it does to Wichita, over the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Road. With the present management Independence is carrying off the laurels that Wichita as a shipping point, ought to wear. It would be well for the men who have the interests of Wichita at heart to look into this matter, and bring about a change, that will be beneficial to their welfare as well as ours.

[COWLEY COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Mr. A. T. Stewart and Mr. Wood of Winfield were in town last week on their way to Wichita in the interests of the Cowley County Agricultural Society.

These gentlemen talk very encouragingly of the prospect of their praiseworthy enterprise, and we doubt not but their Fair fall will be a grand success. The managers of the affair are men of experience in such matters and the people of the county seem to be thoroughly awakened to the importance of making the Agricultural Society a permanent success. The Society have secured a donation of twenty acres of beautiful land adjoining the city of Winfield and lying in the valley of Walnut, as permanent location of their Fair grounds. The society starts out with a capital stock of $2,000. If there ever was an Agricultural society established under favorable circumstances that of our neighbor county is certainly the one.

The citizens of Winfield, and, indeed, of the entire county, are characteristic of energy and enterprise and will reserve none of that very necessary element on such a question as this. The soil of Cowley is rich and productive and consequently her citizens are prosperous, and encouraged to go on in their labor for the development of their great resources. The valley of the Walnut is as rich a country as can be found anywhere, and numerous creeks and rivulets are a great advantage to the county. We are glad to see our friends in Cowley making a successful attempt to advance the interests of our farming and stock raising communities and trust their efforts will be duly appreciated and the gratitude of the people be manifested by a general patronage at the Fair this fall. Other counties and other states are invited to bring in any article or animal which they may wish to exhibit. Success to the work.

Belle Plaine Herald.

[INDIAN RAID ON SEWELL RANCH - BELOW CALDWELL.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

An Indian raid was made upon Sewell ranch, twenty-five miles below Caldwell, one day last week. Sewell's ranch is on Pond Creek, where the Osages sometimes come to trade. There were five hundred Osages there on business, when thirty Kiowas rode into the corral and ran off Sewell's stock, killing Tommy Best, the herder. The Osages went out and met them, and tried to persuade them to return the stock, but "no come goodie." Instead, they said they would run off stock from and kill every white man in that section of country. They wanted it distinctly understood that they were on the "war path" just as long as grass was good and they did not need government feed. The next day after the above narrated, they went for a party of Mexicans returning to Texas, had a fight with them, and finally got away with all their stock, but without killing anyone. We leave comment for our readers, tired of it ourselves. Wichita Eagle.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Mr. Huffaker, an old Indian trader, well known throughout our state, had kindly sent us word through Mr. Bryden to warn hunters and stock seekers from going out on the usual tramping grounds, as the Indians are undoubtedly cutting off all parties of this kind. They are running closer than ever to the settlements killing, scalping, and stealing from small parties of men or emigrants wherever found. Wichita Eagle.

[COMMISSIONERS' PROCEEDINGS.]

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Board of County Commissioners met in Co. Clerk's office in Winfield July 1st, 1872. Present: Frank Cox, O. C. Smith, and J. D. Maurer.

Proceeded to act on the following Road Petitions.

One of J. H. Rudloff, granted with Geo. Lidley, John Ameand, D. Lewis as viewers. Survey July 8th, 1872.

One of G. M. Gardner, granted with A. T. Gay, A. Bates, and Dunning as viewers. Survey July 10th, 1872.

Two of G. W. Foughty, for Section Line Roads, granted and ordered opened.

One of S. C. Smith, granted with J. H. Land, D. A. Millington, and P. M. Wait, as viewers. Survey July 15th, 1872.

One of Richard Page, for change of State Road, granted and ordered on Section line.

One of Topliff, granted with Strong Pepper, John Linton, and Isaac Shedder, as viewers. Survey July 18th, 1872.

One of R. H. Moore, granted and ordered opened, 40 feet wide.

One of John Tipton, granted with O. H. Ward, Frank Speer, and R. A. Thompson, as viewers. Survey July 12th, 1872.

Viewers on the old Petition of Norman was appointed as follows: Gustavus Lacker, Samuel Robb, and Martindale. Survey July 27th, 1872.

W. H. Wengate's Petition for Road was laid over for want of bond and publication.

Petition of J. L. James was rejected on account of form.

Petition of T. H. Baylis laid over.

Reports of the following Roads were acted upon by the Board.

N. T. Wright's was received and adopted and ordered opened, by the 1st of Nov., 1872, and allowed H. Martin $75 damages.

Board adjourned for one hour for dinner.

Board met as adjourned at 1 p.m.

Report on County Road of Godfrey's was received and adopted, and ordered opened, and damages were allowed to U. S. Hunt, to the amount of $18, and also to E. P. Hoyt for the same amount.

Report of County Road of S. C. Winters was adopted and ordered opened.

Report of County Road of Joel Mash's was received and adopted, and ordered opened.

Report of County Road of John Eskin, received, adopted, and ordered opened.

Report of County Road of Green was laid over until tomorrow.

Report of A. S. Williams Road was laid over until tomorrow at 10 a.m.

"Bids for County Printing was then canvassed and awarded to Kerns of Winfield and Kellogg and Scott of Arkansas City."

The proceedings of the County Board to be Printed in both papers free of charge, and legal rates for other work and Blanks at Topeka prices per agreement on file in this office."

Petition of Citizens of Windsor asking for a dram shop License for C. W. Jones, was granted. License fixed at one hundred and fifty dollars per year, payable in advance; bond filed and approved in the sum of $2,000.

Board adjourned until 7 a.m. of the 2nd.

Board met as adjourned at 7 a.m., July 2nd, 1872.

Bond of E. B. Kager as County Treasurer, was approved and he took the oath of office.

Ferry license was granted to John Murey to establish a ferry across the Arkansas River at Salt Springs. License free, rates of Ferryage, 75 cents for one four horse team, 25 cents for one horse, and 10 cents per head for loose cattle and horses.

Report of Green Road was then taken up, and E. C. Manning appeared for the road, and Pryor appeared for Mr. Bullen, and J. B. Fairbanks appeared for Mr. Knowles, and both parties discussed the matter before the Board for and against the Road. The viewers appeared and asked to amend their report. It was granted and laid over for that purpose.

Report on A. S. Williams Road was then taken up, and their report was laid on the table, and new viewers appointed as follows: Lewis Stevens, Richard Page, and J. M. Jackson, survey 30th day of July.

Adjourned one hour for dinner.

Met as adjourned at 1 p.m.

Salary of County Attorney fixed at $1,000 per year. County Clerk's additional fees was fixed at $300 per year.

The following bills were acted upon.

One in favor of W. M. Boyer, as J. P. cost, in Criminal action, rejected.

One of J. T. Paul for other rent $30, additional; one for Lyon County for keeping prisoners $107, allowed; one of M. J. Brower's, and others as Road viewers $15, allowed; one of L. Halcomb as judge of election $2, allowed; one of J. P. Short, for office rent, $27, allowed; one of S. Belval, judge of election $2; one of J. S. Baker, laid over for want of form; one of C. G. Handy, as assessor of Tisdale Tp. $81.; one of J. D. Cochran rent of Dist. Clerk's Office, $7.50; one of T. H. Johnson for espressage on books, $2.50.

One of P. M. Walt returning Poll books, $1.60; one of W. Dunn and others road viewers $15; one of Insane Asylum for crazy woman, $10.; one of J. P. Short as assessor of Winfield Tp. $99.; one of Crane and Byron for County Books $50.; one of Patten Himrod as Assessor of Rutland Tp. $23,; one of Crane and Byron Co. books $176.50; one of J. B. Todd as Assessor of Windsor Tp. $65.; one of J. D. Cochran as judge of election, $2.00; one of

S. L. Robinson as Assessor of Silverdale Tp., $36.; one of R. I. Threaker as Assessor of Bolton Tp., $51.50; one of F. A. Keys as Assessor of Dexter Tp., $80.; one of W. H. Kerns for Co. Printing $65.20.; one of R. H. Mitchell as Assessor of Creswell Tp., $109.55.; one of Charles Leish, judge of election, $2.00.; one of E. S. Torrance as Co. Attorney, $500.; one of G. P. Mayner, Coroner, allowed; one of E. S. Torrance, office rent $30.; one of Kellogg and Scott Co. Printing laid over; one of H. B. Beck as Assessor of Ninnescah Tp., $54.; one of Norman Shetten as messenger for Co. Attorney, $3.; one of Myton and Brotherton for goods for pauper of Winfield Tp., $41.74; one of C. F. Allen, Constable, costs laid over; W. Q. Mansfield for M. D. for pauper for Winfield Tp., $48.; one of J. F. Paul for Blanks $12.25.

Petition of citizens numbering 80 electors calling upon the Co. Commissioners, to order an election on the proposition of issuing bonds to build a Court House and Jail. Petition granted and the following order was made.

Whereas a petition duly signed by over fifty voters of Cowley County, Kansas, has been presented to the Board of County Commissioners of said county, on the 2nd day of July, A. D. 1872, requesting that an election be called to vote on the question of issuing fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) of the bonds of said county to be expended in the erection of a Court House and Jail at Winfield in said county.

Now therefore, be it ordered that an election be held on the 10th day of August, 1872, at the various voting precincts in the county of Cowley, in the state of Kansas, for the purpose of voting for or against issuing fifteen thousand dollars in bonds, of one thousand dollars each, said bonds to be redeemable one thousand dollars annually, and to be all redeemed in fifteen years, each bearing ten percent interest per annum payable annually, the funds arising from the negotiation of said bonds to be expended in the erection of a Court House and Jail at Winfield, the County Seat of said county.

The following Township officers were appointed to fill vacancies.

Cedar Tp., C. R. Myers, Constable, A. J. Edwards, Clerk, Daniel Kauntz, Treasurer.

Pleasant Valley Tp., Mackerell, Constable.

Tisdale Tp., Perry Chance, Constable.

Richland Tp., Franklin Yike, Constable.

Resignation of F. A. Hunt as clerk, and J. S. Hunt as Treasurer of Winfield Tp. was accepted, and J. D. Cochran was appointed Treasurer, and D. A. Millington as Clerk of said Tp.

E. B. Kager was assigned to office over the Walnut Valley Billiard Hall, and rent at $5. per month.

The following bids were allowed. One in favor of A. A. Jackson for expressage on Co. books $25.75, and County Clerk $1.50, one for J. D. Maurer, Co. Commissioners, $17.30; one for O. C. Smith $16.50; one for Frank Cox, $16.70.

Adjourned until July 15th, 1872. FRANK COX, Chairman,

A. A. JACKSON, Clerk.

[TOWN AND COUNTY] (PERSONALS)

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Weather. Hot and dry.

Don't forget to vote the Court House and Jail bonds.

Visiting and business cards neatly printed at this office.

Monk & Perry have closed out their grocery business.

Our merchants have had a very brisk trade for some time.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The Winfield Drug Store presents a very pleasant appearance; having been repainted.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Last Saturday our streets were crowded with teams, and the sidewalks with people.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The Congregationalists will hold Communion services at the M. E. church next Sunday.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Mr. A. Bickel wants a good brick moulder immediately, to whom he will pay good wages.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The delegates to the county convention from Dexter are Thos. R. Bryan, P. G. Smith, and F. A. Creager.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Mr. Scott, local editor of the Traveler called on us last Monday, as he was passing through here on his way East.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Johnston & Lockwood have been receiving new goods by the wagon load lately. They keep a full stock of drugs, and the Dr. knows how to "dish `em up."

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Johnston & Lockwood have just received a very large stock of jewelry, toilet, and fancy articles, etc., which they are selling very cheap. Call and see them at the Post Office Drug Store.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Every farmer, and in fact every citizen of Cowley County should vote for the bonds, and have the money that is used in defraying the expenses of the county, invested in county buildings.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

A township convention was held at the courthouse last Saturday, and delegates were elected to the county convention. The delegates chosen were L. J. Webb, J. P. Short, and W. M. Boyer.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The hour for holding Sunday School has been changed to immediately after services. Church services will commence at half past ten. This ruling goes into effect a week from next Sunday.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Mr. Blandin is removing his lumber yard to Ninth avenue west of Main street; where he has a large number of mowers and reapers for sale. The enclosure and office are quite an improvement to the town.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The ladies of the Congregational church in Winfield will hold an Ice Cream Social at Rodocker's Hall Tuesday evening, Jul 16th. A cordial invitation is extended to all.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

During the storm a week ago last Saturday, one of the front doors of the Freeland House blew open, which Mr. Freeland was trying to hold shut. As it opened his hand slipped and went through one pane of glass and his head through another, the glass severing one of the arteries of his left hand.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

During the past week not a day has passed we have been asked confidentially for a correct answer in regard to our condition: whether or not we had not been enjoying another state of existence since the fourth. In order to settle the matter peaceably, we will say that we are single yet.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

We announce to the citizens of Winfield and Cowley County that through the efforts of our Post Master his office has become a Money Order Office, and that citizens can now make remittances, without the usual delay attending "Registered letters," or the danger of losing their funds. Mr. Johnston drew his first order this A.M.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

LIVERY STABLE. Mr. Darrah has moved his livery stock from Dunlap's old stand to Eighth Avenue just east of the Lagonda House. Mr. Darrah has the best stable in town, is centrally located, and his stock, buggies, and carriages are equal to any establishment of the kind in Southern Kansas. A good yard has been enclosed; and the accommodations for freighters and travelers are unsurpassed.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Pleasant Valley celebrated the 4th very pleasantly. Speeches and music in the forenoon, and music and dancing in the afternoon and evening. We like to see dancing, and believe it to be a pleasant and healthful exercise, but our experience has taught us that one of our feet is of the Quaker or Methodist persuasion, and so we are not very expert at tripping the "light fantastic toe," yet we do claim that we are a success at "cutting a pigeon wing" and when supper time comes, we can "waltz away" without about as much of it, and in about as graceful a manner as anyone on the list (of dead heads).

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The "shooting" committee were very prompt in executing their work on the 4th. They commenced at or before midnight, and kept it up till daylight. We supposed that the committee had experience enough at the business to prevent any accidents, but daylight revealed the horrible fact that some of them had been "shot" so bad that they "could hardly walk." Too bad.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

The Lagonda House, formerly the Winfield House, formally opened last Monday [JULY 8, 1872] with a public dinner. We were not present, but learn from persons who were there that it exceeded anything of the kind ever offered in Winfield. A great many partook of the delicious viands, and the gentlemanly proprietors, Messrs. S. A. Weir & Co., will be gratefully remembered for their generous effort to become acquainted with our people here. We wish the new hotel success.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

Hon. C. V. Eskridge was in town last Friday evening. He is talking up a railroad from Kansas City via Emporia, Eldorado, and Winfield to Arkansas City. The route is a good one for a local road, but we think bonds at the rate of $7,000 per mile too much for the people of Cowley County to pay for such a road. The people of Cowley stand ready to vote bond sufficient to grade the road, but will not with our advice vote a sufficient amount to pay for the grading and equipping.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

THANKS. Since our last issue we were invited to test the truthfulness of the assertion "that the Freeland House sets the best table of any house in southern Kansas." We claim to be a good witness on occasions of this kind, and so far as we have been able to learn from our own experience, the assertion is correct, as anyone will testify who has been there. As it is the first time we have been thus kindly remembered since our sojourn here as publisher, we take this opportunity of offering to Mr. and Mrs. Freeland our sincere thanks.

Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.

We paid Oxford a visit on the fourth, and had a very pleasant time, considering the inclemency of the weather. We found the people both courteous and generous, and all seemed anxious to make the occasion enjoyable. We spent a few hours at the Fieldon [? Fledon] House, waiting for our "transport" to return from the grove, and from our experience while there, we can assure our readers that the landlord "knows how to charge" about as well as any man we ever met with. Our advice is for you to take plenty of stamps with you and don't stay long, or you may have to "dig out" after dark, "dead broke and in debt."

[BIG EDITORIAL: MESSAGE FROM COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]

Winfield Messenger, Friday, July 19, 1872.

RECAP: Request to voters of Cowley County to vote for bonds for courthouse and jail. Request signed by County Commissioners:

FRANK COX, RICHLAND TOWNSHIP.

O. C. SMITH, BOLTON TOWNSHIP.

J. D. MAURER, DEXTER TOWNSHIP.

After their statement, more editorials appear requesting votes for bonds for courthouse and jail.

This was followed by another item about "Land Office at Wichita." Changes made in officers seemed to be welcomed by editor.

[COMMISSIONERS' PROCEEDINGS.]

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Board of County Commissioners met in the County Clerk's office, July 15, 1872.

Present: Frank Cox, O. C. Smith, and J. D. Maurer.

Petition of Hodges and others for section line road, was presented, and granted, and road ordered opened 50 feet wide.

New viewers were appointed on the old petition of Z. Stubbs and others. Viewers: John Fredrick, Real Martin, and August Kinney. Time of survey: August 20th, 1871.

Voting precinct was established at New Salem Post Office, in Tisdale Township.

Commissioners signed a call for a Grand Jury, for the July term of court.

The Bill of James Parker, for catching a prisoner, was rejected.

The following bills were allowed.

One of Z. Stubbs, as Township assessor of Rock Township, $60.; one of W. A. Freeman, as assessor of Beaver Township, $34.50; one of W. White, as assessor of Rock Township for 1872, $45; one of T. Henderson, as assessor of Pleasant Valley Township; one of T. J. Johnson and others as Road Viewers, $9.50; one of B. H. Kelly, as erroneous assessment, $2.00; one of J. H. Ramsey for stationery and County books, $180.55; one of Jackson & Myers for coffin for Pauper, $25.

The following equalization was made in Windsor Township:

G. M. Bronson reduced from $1,280 to $1,100.

Dexter Township: Bronson, was reduced from $1,200 to $1,000.

Creswell Township: S. P. Channell was raised from $390 to $780, on the S. W. quarter of 7-34-4, and S. W. quarter 24-34-3, from 45,00 to 56,25 and S. E. corner of N. W. quarter of section 32-34-4 from $59.00 to $70.00.

Above are samples. Skipped the rest.

[CENTRAL COMMITTEE.]

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Committees of the different townships, met pursuant to call. On motion L. J. Webb was chosen chairman, and John Irwin, secretary. On motion, Messrs. Kelly and Kinne chosen committee on candidates. The committee on credentials, reported the following persons as members of the County Central Committee.

James R. Bryan, Dexter.

L. J. Webb, Winfield.

C. R. Mitchell, Creswell.

J. B. Nipp, Pleasant Valley.

L. B. Wamsley, Nenescah.

James Kelly, Richland.

John Irwin, Rock.

E. P. Kinne, Bolton.

The remaining townships were not represented. On motion, L. J. Webb was elected chairman of the County Central Committee. L. J. Webb resigned, and James Kelly, on motion, was duly elected chairman.

C. R. Mitchell was elected secretary of County Central Committee.

On motion, Messrs. Irwin and Kinne were elected as committee to ascertain the number of persons on the tax roll in each township.

The committee to ascertain the number upon the tax rolls of the several townships reported as follows:

Vernon, 125.

Silver Dale, 66.

Creswell, 177.

Richland, 97.

Ninnescah, 87.

Pleasant Valley, 92.

Winfield, 560.

Cedar, 88.

Beaver, 83.

Bolton, 146.

Tisdale, 185.

Windsor, 170.

Rock, 230.

Report received, and committee discharged.

On motion, a Republican Convention was called, to meet on the 29th day of August, 1872, at Winfield, at 1 o'clock P.M., to elect delegates and alternates to the Republican State Convention at Topeka and Lawrence, on Wednesday, September 4th A. D. 1872. . . .

[TOWN AND COUNTY]

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

New hay is coming into market.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

J. C. Fuller has returned from Topeka.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Twenty men are employed on the bridges.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Chicken thieves are around gobbling up the feathered youngsters.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Everybody is preparing something to bring to the Fair.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

It rained the first four days of this week.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Businessmen report currency more plenty than usual.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

A great deal of Eastern Exchange has come in the past week.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Our streets have been very muddy for some time.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The schoolhouse is being roofed.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Our Attorneys are hard at work getting up their cases for the district court.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Mr. Hannibal Wolf started for Utah Territory yesterday.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The premium lists of the State Fair to be held at Topeka have been received.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Mr. C. A. Bliss is building a fine residence southeast of the M. E. church.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

A new voting precinct has been established in the north part of Tisdale Township.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

No mail since Wednesday. We had ought to have a mail route direct from Wichita.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Commissioners have called a grand jury for the next term of court which commences next Monday.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

We see Dr. Houx' shingle hanging out in front of the first door South of Green's drug store.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

We learn from Mr. Walton, who has been to Wichita this week, that a man was shot there a few nights ago.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The County Commissioners, who all reside outside of the township, say that a jail and courthouse building is a public necessity.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Township Board estimated the amount of work done on the bridge piers up to July 5th, at $725.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

F. E. Collins didn't get the cattle trail opened from Arkansas City to Texas last winter. Thinks it will pass next session.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The abundant rains lately have placed the corn crop of this county beyond the possibility of a failure. The crop will rate from 50 to 100 bushels per acre.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Three horse races, a matched game of Base Ball, and a dance in the evening, helped to enliven the monotony of last Saturday.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The "Boys" of the Frontier B. B. club say that the proprietor of the Lagonda House is the whitest man that ever "hung out in these parts."

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Communion services were held by the Congregational church last Sunday, and four persons admitted into the church by letter.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The main pier for the bridge at Knowle's ford is completed and the abutments are going up. The bridge will be 30 feet above low water mark.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Augusta B. B. Club were to play the Frontiers of this place a match game today; owing to the high water, the Augusta Club will probably not come to town.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The attention of mill owners is called to the ad of Mr. J. P. Short in the special notice column. He is agent for one of the best Turbine wheels manufactured.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

W. W. Walton, our deputy surveyor, has been appointed to the same office in Sumner County. This appointment will not interfere with his office here.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Deputy Treasurer Short starts for Topeka next week to make his final settlement with the State Treasurer. He will take several thousand dollars out of the county.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

EXCURSION. We took it last Sunday, with one of Mr. Darrah's fine rigs. Our joy in consequence of Mr. Darrah's courtesy is unspeakable and we can only say to our readers, go and do likewise, and "you'll know how it is yourself."

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Real estate is changing hands lively. Mr. Howland sold ten acres of his farm east of town for $50 per acre. Mr. Wolf has sold his improved farm one mile east of town for $1,600, J. P. Short being the purchaser.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Traveler says that Collins says that the "cattle trail" will be passed early in the Spring of the next Congress!

That's right, brother Kellogg. The Bible says that, "who so findeth himself in a grave yard at the twilight, shall whistle to keep his knees braced."

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

ENTERPRISING. Augusta voted against bridge bonds on the 6th inst. Well, thank the Lord, Winfield voted for bridge bonds, and is building them too. Our bridges will enable us during high water, to cross and go up on the divide. No thanks to Augusta.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

HOTEL CHANGE. The Bradish House has changed hands and is now conducted by G. M. Morgan, Mrs. Bradish retiring from the business.

We know nothing of Mr. Morgan as a hotelist, but hope he will keep up the reputation for the house that it has already won.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

BASE BALL. A match game of base ball was played last Saturday afternoon, between the Rackensacks, of Arkansas City, and the Frontiers, of this place. The score stood, Frontier, 45; Rackensacks, 55. The Frontiers gave a dance in the evening, and the affair ended with the best of feelings.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Agricultural Society has been successful in obtaining grounds from H. C. Loomis and A. Meanor. Mr. Meanor has truly shown the proper spirit toward the Society by giving 3 and 6/10ths acres for a nominal price, believing that his valuable land will be made more valuable by the liberal terms given the Society.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

DIED. At the residence of his son, in Rock Township, July 11th, 1812, Elias Grow. The deceased was born in Galen, Wayne County, New York, May 5th, 1872. He emigrated to Illinois in 1844, and has been a resident of the West since. He was a firm believer in Christian doctrines, although of late he did not profess his faith. For some time before his death, he took much pleasure in reading the bible.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

Fair warning to all persons frequenting that sporting house on Main Street if such persons have no respect for their neighbors' rest at night; they will be published.

The above was handed us for publication, and we give it to the public for what it is worth: and it may be worth considerable to some of our elites. We will publish names of the frequenters of the establishment, if order cannot be obtained without resorting to such means.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

It is said that the inhabitants of the little village lately discovered by some Livingston, in the sand bluffs near the mouth of the Walnut, are distinguished for an inborn hostility towards all parts of creation save their own. The reason is said to be, having so much sand in their craws. Their love of liberty is so great that they continually watch the Walnut, with their fists full of sand, to batter down an imaginary jail they expect to be floating down to them.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

The Davis Family Concert Troup will give an exhibition in Pickering's hall tonight. On account of high water they could not get here yesterday as advertised. Their entertainments are strictly moral and first class and should be liberally patronized by our lovers of pleasure.

They go from here to Arkansas City, where they give entertainments Saturday and Monday evenings, and will return to Winfield on Tuesday and will give another concert here with an entire change of programme.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

THE AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. This society has secured by deed 24 acres on the east side of Main Street just south of Winfield for a Fair ground.

This ground is beautifully graded by nature and cannot be excelled as a location for this purpose. The Directors now propose to fit up the grounds as rapidly as possible for the approaching Fair. Let every farmer now come in and subscribe from one to ten shares at five dollars each, as the funds are wanted to improve the grounds. Persons wishing to furnish labor, posts, lumber or other material, will please call on the under signed committee. C. M. WOOD, J. D. COCHRAN, E. DAVIS.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

On their return trip from Augusta, the morning of the fifth, the "Frontier party" met with quite an accident, about three miles this side of that place. One of the teams became unmanageable and frightened the second. Both dashed down a rocky hill to a creek near the bottom when they collided and upset; the entire eight of the party being thrown out. One pair of horses with the running gear only of the buggy ran on until they were very suddenly stopped by precipitating themselves into the back of a third carriage only a quarter of a mile ahead, but not doing much damageonly slightly frightening its inmates. The horses were caught and tied and the carriages driven back to find the scene of the smash up. They then found seven out of the eight hurt, one young lady lying senseless, and one young gentleman with his leg considerably bruised, the remainder of the party only slightly bruised, shocked, and greatly frightened. The young lady was picked up and immediately driven back to town; when all the assistance necessary for her recovery was rendered; the rest of the party were then sent for who soon arrived at the hotel looking in their torn and soiled clothes considerably worse for wear; the carriages seemingly to have suffered the most of the party. Through the kind treatment of their Hotel friends and the mutual care of each other, they were all ready to start for home again the next morning and are now well and able to talk and laugh over the incident of their