Note: I have revised the file of J. C. Fuller. November 2004. MAW

[J. C. Fuller was born in 1835. He had an older brother, Homer G. Fuller, who was born in 1829. H. G. Fuller married Miss Hattie Birdsey. They had one child, Charles E. Fuller. This family came to Winfield in 1878. I have a file on both Homer G. Fuller and his son, Charles E. Fuller.

Another person showed up: N. O. Fuller. The first name will always be a "Mystery" to me: I have seen "Ned," "Neal," "Neil," and even "Niel" used by the Winfield Courier as the first name for N. O. Fuller. N. O. Fuller was a brother of J. C. Fuller. He ended up moving out of state. I did not make a file on N. O. Fuller. MAW]

Kansas 1875 Census, Winfield Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.

Name age sex color Place/birth Where from

J. C. Fuller 39 m w New York Illinois

Nannie C. Fuller 27 f w Missouri Missouri

Jas. H. Fuller 2 m w Kansas

[RKW stated that J. C. Fuller's son, James H. Fuller, took over the management of the Fuller company at Moline, Illinois, in 1901, assisted by a nephew, Edgar H. Fuller.]

The following data relative to J. C. Fuller was compiled by Richard Kay Wortman years ago.

J. C. Fuller.

J. C. Fuller was born in Orleans County, New York, in 1835. His early life was spent on his father's farm. He was educated at the Genesse Wesleyan Seminary at Lima, New York, and taught school for three terms. In 1855 he went to Grinnell, Iowa, and then to Chicago. He moved to Nebraska in 1856. In 1859 he started for Pike's Peak, but changed his purpose and went to California. After spending six months in different parts of California, he went to Texas and located in Houston. At the outbreak of the Civil War, he found out that he either had to join the Confederate Army or go north. He went north to Baltimore, Maryland, and engaged in lithograph publishing for four years. In 1869 he went to Fort Scott, Kansas, remaining there one year before coming to Winfield. (This account not cover his going to the town of Sumner in Sumner County with D. A. Millington of Fort Scott.)

According to this account J. C. Fuller came to Winfield in August 1870. At that time Winfield had one store, a blacksmith shop, and two houses. In partnership with D. A. Millington, Fuller purchased A. A. Jackson's squatters interest in 160 acres of land, since the land had not been surveyed or officially placed on the market. Fuller and Millington, in connection with E. C. Manning (who held 160 acres by location) had a survey made and laid out the town site of Winfield. A town site company, the Winfield Town Association, was formed with Mr. Fuller as President. (This was the second town site company in Winfield. In January 1871 Fuller opened the first bank in Cowley County, the only bank south of Emporia, Kansas. That same year J. C. Fuller married Miss Nannie C. Harrison, at Hannibal, Missouri. The Fullers had three children: James H., Maggie (who died in infancy), and Estelle. The daughter, Estelle, later married James Lorton.

The "Winfield Bank, of J. C. Fuller" prospered. The Winfield Messenger, on November 1, 1872, had a notice pertaining to his bank. "Exchange bought and sold. Bills discounted. School and Township Bonds negotiated. Collections made and remitted at current rates of exchange. Interest allowed on Time deposits." The bank was located at the southwest corner of Ninth Avenue and Main Street on lot 3, block 109.

J. C. Fuller was present in New York on February 2, 1875, when his parents, J. Cash Fuller and Eliza Gould Fuller, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

In 1879 J. C. Fuller formed a partnership with Col. J. C. McMullen and they merged the Citizens Bank of Winfield and the Winfield Bank, of J. C. Fuller, into the "Winfield Bank." In 1884 owing to poor health, Mr. Fuller was compelled to retire from active business and the bank was sold to H. B. Schuler. It was soon after incorporated as the "Winfield National Bank." The Winfield National Bank existed until 1945 when it was sold to the "First National Bank of Winfield."

Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 7, 1901.

"J. C. Fuller died yesterday at Moline, Illinois, of the grip and the body will be brought home for burial, arriving here probably tomorrow night. No definite arrangements have yet been made but the funeral will probably occur sometime Saturday.

"A. S. Allen received a telegram late yesterday afternoon announcing Mr. Fuller's death but it gave no particulars. This morning Mr. Allen received a letter from Mrs. Fuller written Tuesday in which she said Mr. Fuller was sick but at that time his condition was evidently not considered serious and his condition must have become suddenly worse, resulting unexpectedly in his death. Mr. Fuller was here a few days ago and was sick with the grip while here but not seriously so. His family consisting of his widow and two children, James and Miss Estelle, were with him at the time of his death and will accompany the body home.

"J. C. Fuller came to Winfield with the Hon. D. A. Millington in August 1870 and since that time no man has been more closely identified with the business interests of Winfield. He opened the Winfield Bank of J. C. Fuller in January 1871, this being at that time the only bank south of Emporia. This bank continued business until 1879 when he formed a partnership with Col. J. C. McMullen and they incorporated the Winfield Bank. This bank was successful and prosperous and was always one of the strong forces in the prosperity and upbuilding of Winfield. In 1884 owing to poor health, Mr. Fuller was compelled to retire from active business and the bank was sold to H. B. Schuler and it was soon after incorporated as the Winfield National Bank, under which name it has since existed.

"J. C. Fuller and W. A. Lee designed and constructed a grain drill on new lines which they thought and which has proved to be a great improvement over the old style drills, and it is now known and used in all farming communities as the Fuller Lee disc press drill. He commenced the manufacturing of these drills in Winfield in 1891. He did this not because he wanted business, but because he thought the drill would be a great benefit to the wheat raising section of the country and because he thought the enterprise would be of value to Winfield. The business soon proved that Winfield was not the proper location for the factory and much against his wish and his interest in Winfield, he was compelled to move the factory to a more central distributing point. He moved the plant from Winfield to Kansas City and later to Moline, Illinois, where it is now a splendid property. In the beginning Mr. Fuller thought he had an idea, but it soon developed as he expressed it, that the idea had him and he simply had to follow where the idea lead.

"While not a politician or ambitious for office, his fellow citizens have always looked to him as a leader in business affairs and he has often had to accept prominent offices in the commercial and educational organizations which have made Winfield the pride of southern Kansas. The Winfield Chautauqua assembly owes much to Mr. Fuller, its presidency having been thrust upon him when it was almost hopelessly in debt. He accepted the responsibility and at once became an active worker for its success. He remained its president until he saw it entirely out of debt and its success assured.

"Mr. Fuller was always prominent and active in the matter of securing railroads and other enterprises that promised to be beneficial to Winfield. He was the principal factor in building the Winfield Gas Works in 1884 and has always controlled and operated the plant. He took an active part in building the Winfield street railway and at his death still owned a one-fourth interest in this enterprise.

"Mr. Fuller was born in Orleans County, New York, in 1835 and like a majority of the great men of this country, his early life was spent on a farm. He finished his education at the Genesse Wesleyan Seminary at Lima, New York, and at the age of nineteen he decided after teaching school one season to take Horace Greeley's advice and go west. He settled first at Grinell, Iowa, in 1855 and went from there to Chicago. In 1869 he came to Kansas, locating at Ft. Scott first, coming to Winfield the next year.

"He was married to Miss Nannie C. Harrison in August 1873 at Hannibal, Missouri, and three children resulted from the union, one of whom died in infancy. Mr. Fuller was a Mason and also belonged to the Workmen and the Royal Arcanum. His family have been with him at Moline for a year or more but Mr. Fuller always claimed Winfield as his home and had arranged his affairs to move back to Winfield in the spring."

Winfield Courier, Saturday, February 9, 1901.

"The funeral over the remains of J. C. Fuller occurred at the First M. E. church this afternoon at 3 o'clock. Rev. T. W. Jeffrey preached the sermon and the pall bearers were as follows: Capt. T. B. Myers, Col. E. C. Manning, W. C. Robinson, J. B. Lynn, H. S. Silver, and E. P. Greer.

"The body arrived last night accompanied by Mrs. Fuller, his son J. H. Fuller, and daughter Miss Estelle. The following is from the Moline Evening Mail in its account of Mr. Fuller's death.

`Throughout his career Mr. Fuller's business life has been marked by an unusual application to his affairs and of late his disinclination to cease his labors may have affected his health. For a year he has not been feeling well, but has continued in the active management of the rapidly growing business of the factory. In January he left his office to attend the Western Retail Implement and Vehicle Dealers association convention at Kansas City, Jan. 15-17, and later went on to Winfield, Kansas. Upon his return home January 17, he was unable to go to the factory, and his son, James H. Fuller, who has been traveling in California and the west for the company, was called home and arrived here last week with his wife and child. Miss Estelle Fuller, who was visiting in Lima, Ohio, arrived home Monday evening.

`The funeral will take place in Winfield, Kansas, on Saturday, the remains, accompanied by the son, being sent to his old home tonight. Mrs. Fuller and her daughter leave tomorrow evening.

`At the head of the company which bore his name, Mr. Fuller has demonstrated his splendid business and executive ability. The company was organized eleven years ago in Winfield, Kansas, for the manufacture of grain drills. It later moved to Kansas City, and in November 1898 was removed to East Moline, then hardly more than a waste of meadow. His was the first factory to come to the new suburb and the faith which he showed in the future of East Moline had much to do with its subsequent growth. He has always been a firm believer in the future of this locality and has often expressed himself as satisfied that much was in store for it.

`He was one of the founders of Winfield, Kansas, now a city of 6,000 inhabitants. Thirty years ago he became identified with that community and since that time has been active in its advancement. He held large property interests there in ranch land and business blocks and was part owner of the chief bank. He was also president of the Winfield Gas and Electric Light Co.

`Mr. Fuller was a native of New York state, having been born in Carlton township, Orleans County, in 1835. He came west while a young man and since that time has been active in the development of its resources and especially those of Kansas. Besides the family in this city, he leaves his nephew, Edgar H. Fuller, who has been associated with him in the business and of late has had the local office in charge. His son will continue the business.'"

James C. Fuller, D. A. Millington, and J. C. McMullen...

Emporia News, September 2, 1870.

New Town. A new town, called Sumner, has just been laid out in Sumner County. The proprietors are: J. M. Steele, C. S. Roe, and J. H. Liggett, of Wichita; J. Jay Buck and E. W. Cunningham, of Emporia; James C. Fuller, Addison Richards, and Mr. Millington, of Fort Scott; Col. J. C. McMullen, of Clarksville, Tennessee; and Maj. Woodsmall, of Gosport, Indiana.

This town is situated in the geographical center of Sumner County, on Slate Creek, and about thirty miles south from Wichita. A stock of goods is already on the ground. A full and complete newspaper outfit is already secured, and it is the intention of the proprietors to have a hotel up and a saw mill in operation soon. This place is immediately on the Texas cattle trail, and may soon be a brisk town. The finest wood and water claims are there to be had. We look for the organization of Sumner County at the next session of the Legislature.

Walnut Valley Times, December 2, 1870.

The President of the town Company, Mr. J. C. Fuller, informed us the other day that twenty- three business houses were now under contract and in course of construction. How's that for a town only four months old? Winfield Censor.

Millington & Fuller: Bank Building...

Cowley County Censor, March 18, 1871.

ATTORNEYS.

JOHN B. FAIRBANK. Attorney and Councillor at Law, Winfield. Office: Millington & Fuller's new Bank Building.

Change: now called Fuller's Bank...

Cowley County Censor, May 13, 1871.

LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW, WINFIELD, KANSAS.

OFFICE AT FULLER'S BANK, MAIN STREET.

Cowley County Censor, May 13, 1871.

BANK! J. C. FULLER, BANKER, IS NOW PREPARED TO BUY AND SELL EXCHANGE, MAKE COLLECTIONS, AND DO A GENERAL BANKING BUSINESS.

WINFIELD, MAY 1ST, 1871.

Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.

See dissolution notice of Webb & Coon. Mr. Coon remains at the Bank building of J. C. Fuller, where he is prepared to do all business in the legal line. Mr. Webb has moved his library to the CENSOR office.

Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.

W. W. WALTON, DEPUTY COUNTY SURVEYOR OF COWLEY COUNTY. All orders promptly attended to. Office in Fuller's Bank.

Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.

DENTISTRY! DR. C. L. FLINT. Orders left at Fuller's Bank, Main Street, Winfield, Kansas, will receive prompt attention.

J. C. Fuller and D. A. Millington: Fort Scott...

[REPORT FROM "D. D. M." - CORRESPONDENT OF THE STATE RECORD.]

Walnut Valley Times, May 26, 1871

Winfield is the County seat of Cowley County. Last October the site was an unbroken prairie, now it contains half a hundred houses. C. A. Bliss, formerly of the firm of Bliss & Lee of Topeka, is the postmaster and stage agent, and has besides a large stock of goods, and is getting rich, I think. He says anybody that can't make money in that country, should have a guardian appointed to take care of him. He is a generous and true hearted man, and is well deserving of success.

As evidence of the public spirit of the citizens, I will relate an incident. The Baptist Society had a festival recently to raise a little money towards building a church. A cake to be given to the prettiest girl, brought to the treasury $158, and the total contributions of the evening reached upwards of $300.

Among the principal men of the town are Col. Manning, Col. Alexander of Leavenworth, D. A. Millington, and J. C. Fuller, of Fort Scott, who are all members of the town company.

The town site of Winfield is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. From an eminence on Col. Alexander's claim, adjoining the town, the view is perfectly enchanting. Wells and springs abound, one of the latter flowing from a hillside into a deep rocky basin, in volume sufficient if carried into pipes, to supply the town.

Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.

J. C. Fuller has returned from Topeka.

Winfield Messenger, October 18, 1872.

Mr. Fuller informs us that the banking business is very good. We hear but very little complaint in this direction from any source.

Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.

Mrs. Fuller claims to have the brightest and most beautiful baby in town. Mrs. Fuller may not have reason to boast very long. The neighborhood we live in is composed of newly-married people, and there may be some competition in that line of beauty.

Winfield Messenger, November 1, 1872. Front Page.

Winfield Courier, Saturday, February 1, 1873.

The foundation is being laid for A. H. Green's new law office. It will be built on the second lot south of J. C. Fuller's Bank, will be a frame 16 x 28, with a handsomely finished front, in connection with the Bank building to be erected by M. L. Read, the coming spring. It will add much to the appearance of that part of Main street.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 6, 1873.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 20, 1873.

J. C. Fuller, of the Winfield Bank, pays highest market price for School Bonds.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 17, 1873.

J. C. Fuller has removed the old town company building on the lot south of Maris & Baldwin. He proposes to finish it up in neat style, suitable for a storeroom.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 22, 1873.

A splendid set of light buggy harness and one saddle for sale by J. C. Fuller, cheap for cash.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 26, 1873.

J. C. Fuller is now on a visit to his friends in New York.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 7, 1873.

J. C. Fuller again in our midst.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 28, 1873.

Bank Notice. On and after September 1st, 1873, our Bank will open for business at 9 o'clock A. M., and close at 4 o'clock, P. M. J. C. FULLER, M. L. READ.

Mrs. J. C. Fuller...

Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 4, 1873.

The directors of the Agricultural Society will meet at the Fair Grounds, Saturday, Sept. 6th, 1873, at 2 o'clock P. M. They earnestly desire that the Superintendents of all the departments meet with them to acquaint themselves with their duties. The following are the names of the various Superintendents.

Capt. E. Davis; A. Walton; J. H. Churchill; J. P. Short; John R. Smith; E. B. Johnson; W. K. Davis; A. S. Williams; Will S. Voris; S. H. Myton; Samuel Darrah; James Stewart; Jas. H. Land; T. B. Myers; Geo. W. Martin; W. M. Boyer; Max Shoeb; John Swain; S. C. Smith, Mrs. L. H. Howard; Mrs. J. D. Cochran; Mrs. E. Davis; Mrs. J. C. Fuller; Mrs. C. A. Bliss; Mrs. Fitch; Max Fawcett; J. O. Matthewson; H. B. Norton; D. A. Millington; E. B. Kager, C. M. Wood; T. A. Wilkinson.

The Superintendents are desired to study carefully the rules and regulations of the society so they may be able to render assistance to exhibitors.

[FAIR NOTES.]

Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 25, 1873.

We give this week a cursory report of the 3rd annual fair of the Cowley County Agricultural Society, held last week. Notwithstanding the dust which at times was almost stifling, the fair was quite successful and the managers are entitled to much credit for the energy and good judgment they used. We are informed by the secretary that there were over 400 entries, and more than 1,000 different articles on exhibition. We report some of the premiums as furnished us. The race horse and fast trotter had to take a back place this year, while the horse for service came to the front. The "pure agricultural horse trot" gave way to the tests of strength, and excellence was not measured by the short time required to run 300 yards. We were glad to notice some very good young stock in this department. The premiums were awarded as follows.

In the department of needle and fancy work, there were many beautiful articles. We have not time to specify but give a list of those to whom premiums were awarded.

Mrs. Bonsall, Mrs. Fuller, Mrs. McLaughlin, Misses Deming, Mary Stewart, Foos, Porter, Jane Stewart, Likowski, Mrs. Anderson, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Bostwick, and Mrs. Shepherd.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 16, 1873.

J. C. Fuller wants it distinctly understood by those persons in the east part of the county who think all the banks in the county have suspended, that the Winfield Bank of J. C. Fuller has been opened for business every day at regular hours, has paid all demands and checks in cash, has continued to loan to its regular customers, and is prepared to do the same in future. The bank is not buying eastern drafts, but takes them for collection.

Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 6, 1873.

L. T. Michener has removed his law office to Fuller's Bank.

J. C. Fuller; Mrs. J. C. Fuller...

Winfield Courier, December 12, 1873.

GRAND MASONIC FESTIVAL!

To be given for the benefit of Adelphi Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at the Courtroom, Winfield, Kansas, Dec. 25th, 1873.

PROGRAMME.

There will be a public installation of officers of the Lodge at the Baptist church at one o'clock P.M. After the Installation there will be a few short addresses by members of the order.

Dinner will take place at the courtroom at five o'clock P.M.

A cordial invitation is extended to the public.

After dinner a grand ball will be given at the courtroom. Good music will be in attendance. A cordial invitation is extended to the fraternity to be present. Special invitations will be given by the Committee to those not members of the order.

The following is the list of the committees appointed for the occasion.

COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS. A. A. Jackson, T. A. Rice, J. E. Saint, W. M. Boyer, L. J. Webb, J. C. Fuller.

TABLE COMMITTEE. A. T. Stewart, J. F. Paul, T. A. Rice, W. M. Boyer, J. E. Saint, J. D. Cochran, J. C. Fuller, John Swain, J. A. Simpson, A. T. Shenneman, A. S. Williams, J. P. Short, Mrs. J. P. Short, Miss Read, Miss Mary Stewart, Mrs. Geo. Oakes, Mrs. J. F. Paul, Mrs. E. Maris, Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mrs. W. M. Boyer, Mrs. L. R. Paul, Mrs. L. J. Webb, Mrs. J. C. Weathers, Mrs. Newman, Mrs. Howland, Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. W. G. Graham, Mrs. J. D. Cochran, Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Miss Parmelee, Miss Lizzie Graham, Miss Yount.

[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]

Winfield Courier, February 27, 1874.

CIVIL DOCKET. FOURTH DAY. 28. James C. Fuller vs. Allen B. Lemmon.

[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]

Winfield Courier, April 10, 1874.

District Court Proceedings. Fuller vs. Lemmon, Judgment for plaintiff.

Winfield Courier, September 4, 1874.

Webb & Millington have moved their law office into Fuller's bank building.

Winfield Courier, September 11, 1874.

J. C. Fuller is having his bank building fitted up in good style.

Winfield Courier, September 25, 1874.

A meeting of the citizens of Winfield was held at the Courthouse September 22, 1874, for the purpose of organizing a Literary Society.

W. Q. Mansfield, M. L. Robinson, J. C. Fuller, Rev. Mr. Platter, Rev. Mr. Rigby, W. W. Walton, and E. B. Kager were appointed a committee to prepare a plan of organization to present at a future meeting to be called by a committee.

We hope all the citizens will take an interest in this society for such an institution, well sustained, can be made a source of much pleasure during the winter, of great and lasting profit.

Winfield Courier, October 29, 1874.

J. C. Fuller, Esq., who has been absent at St. Louis the past week, returned home last night.

Winfield Courier, December 3, 1874.

At a stated communication of Adelphi Lodge No. 110, held last Tuesday evening, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: Leland J. Webb, W. M., W. G. Graham, S. W., J. E. Saint, J. W., J. C. Fuller, Treas., M. G. Troup, Sec., J. Newman, Chaplain, Perry Hill, S. D., J. D. Cochran, J. D., I. L. Comfort, Tyler.

Winfield Courier, December 17, 1874.

The Winfield Institute. The members of the Winfield Institute met at the courthouse last Monday evening and elected a board of directors, consisting of W. Q. Mansfield, T. E. Johnston, D. A. Millington, Rev. J. E. Platter, J. C. Fuller, Rev. N. L. Rigby, J. B. Fairbanks, Chas. C. Black, and E. B. Kager. According to arrangement they met last evening and elected from the number a president, secretary, and treasurer, to-wit: D. A. Millington, president; W. Q. Mansfield, secretary, and T. K. Johnston, treasurer.

Among the objects sought to be accomplished by this movement is the establishment of a public library and reading room, and it is the intention of the directors to make all necessary effort to insure success. To this end, therefore, donations of books are solicited from all who are friendly to the enterprise, and of those desirous of becoming members of the Institute. Books will be taken in payment of dues, if desired. Standard works in good condition, on history, theology, science, travel, fiction, and miscellaneous literature will constitute the library; and it is intended to furnish the reading room with a selection of the leading publications, periodicals, and magazines of the day.

[GOLDEN WEDDING: MR. & MRS. J. C. FULLER OF NEW YORK.]

Winfield Courier, February 25, 1875.

GOLDEN WEDDING. From the Lockport, New York, daily Journal, we clip the following graphic account of the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller of New York. The fact that they are the parents of one of our own purest and best citizens, J. C. Fuller, Esq., gives it double interest. The Journal correspondent describes the occasion thus:

1825 1875

And such an invitation is not to be slighted, for golden weddings are somewhat less frequent than those made of tin. Accordingly I repaired to the house of Mr. Fuller, as per invitation. The house was already filled, in the main, with relatives, together with a few invited guests. The rooms were festooned with evergreens, with mottoes interspersed. Above the entrance to the parlor was seen the significant motto in evergreen, "welcome home." Upon one of the walls in the parlor was found "1825-1875," while between them was suspended a golden chain of eleven links to symbolize the children, binding those years together; but two of those links, the second and fifth, told us by their broken condition, how death had twice entered the family circle and severed the golden chain. In another part of the parlor upon a large table were displayed the presents: a heavy, solid gold headed cane, a pair of gold spectacles, a silver tea set gold lined, oil paintings and chromos in heavy gilt frames, together with some gold coins as mementoes of this golden occasion.

Further description is unnecessary. To really appreciate these things one must visit these fortunate old people, carry that gold headed cane, examine those pictures through those gold bound spectacles, and drink some of Mrs. Fuller's superb tea from those gilded ten cups.

But that dinner! My pen absolutely refuses to enter upon a description. I might talk about turkey, chicken, pastry, preserves, rich cream and butter made out of cow's milk, and you, shut up in your palaces in the city, would know no more about it than a blind man does of color. It was not served until between five and eight o'clock p.m., and you may judge of my appetite after having fasted from an early breakfast hour. That dinner! If your imagination is good, you can more easily imagine than I can describe it.

Once more in the parlor the following impromptu programme of exercises we enjoyed:

A sacred song styled, "Over There," was sung by a few selected singers, after which a poem was read, selected from Will Carlton's collection of Farm Ballads, styled "Out of the Old House Nancy," which was appropriate in view of a recent corresponding change made by Mr. Fuller. The Rev. R. C. Foote then gave an interesting address, taking for his theme, "Once in a Lifetime;" bringing forward the prominent facts of life in general, and specially with reference to these elderly people. The address abounded in pleasantry and was heartily enjoyed, while recollections of sad experiences caused a tear to stain the cheek of many present.

An address of presentation was then made by C. H. Lum, Esq., Yates, Orleans County, New York, following which a prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Foote, and after singing "Shall we gather at the river," the assembly broke up or rather was changed into one of life and pleasure. Between music, social conversation and repartee, the hours of the evening sped rapidly away.

Much of interest attaches to a couple who have lived happily together a half century, and that interest would require me to say a few words concerning them. They were born in what is now Carlton, Orleans County, New York, the one in 1803, the other in 1808, making Mr. Fuller 72, and Mrs. Fuller 67 years of age. They have been members of the M. E. church 48 years, and in those years have sought to instill into the minds and hearts of their children the truths of christianity, so that now the majority of them are members of the church and partakers of the same communion.

Two of the children were not permitted to be present; only three are residing in this state, while the other four came from different parts of the west to meet these latter and make the family circle as near complete as possible.

They found their parents enjoying life and health, with forms less bent than common to such remarkable years, eyes dimmed but not into darkness; hair traced with silver, but still enough of darker hue remaining to tell of a vigorous old age. They together with the other relatives and guests there present join us in the prayer, uttered that evening, that this aged couple may enjoy many happy peaceful years, that having rowed together down the stream of time, so near the eternal sea, when that little bark bearing their united lives and fortune has braved over its last billow, it may come to another in the haven of everlasting rest; that together they may be received by kindred and loved ones; that together they may be introduced to the "King in His beauty," and ushered into their eternal mansion; that together they may await the coming of their loved ones, till altogether they join a happy reunion in their eternal home! W. O. B.

Pendleton Center, Feb. 6, 1875.

[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]

Winfield Courier, March 18, 1875.

CIVIL DOCKET. FIFTH DAY. No. 488. J. C. Fuller, vs. S. B. Stewart, et al.

CIVIL DOCKET. SIXTH DAY. No. 506. J. C. Fuller vs. A. H. Caywood.

[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]

Winfield Courier, March 25, 1875.

Disposition of cases in the District Court up to Wednesday night.

488. J. C. Fuller, vs. S. B. Stewart, et al, judgment for plaintiff.

506. J. C. Fuller vs. A. H. Caywood, judgment for plaintiff.

Winfield Courier, April 22, 1875.

It will be seen by the council proceedings that our worthy banker, J. C. Fuller, is now a resident of this city, owing, probably to the fact that the council did not have a stranger whom they could "take in," and being anxious to take somebody, took Fuller. They might have done worse.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, April 22, 1875.

April 19th, 1875. The Council met at Curns & Manser's office at the usual hour. Present: D. A. Millington, Mayor; M. G. Troup, C. C. Black, James M. Dever, Councilmen.

J. C. Fuller filed his consent and petition as the occupying resident owner of out lots No. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14, in said city, and of the territory adjacent thereto on the east, and outside of the city, to have added from said adjacent territory to the city so much land as will make said out lots 150 feet wide east and west, and make the eastern limit of said city 150 feet east of the east line of Andrews street, in said city.

An ordinance in relation to extending the city limits on the east was presented and read. On motion said ordinance was duly adopted by sections. The vote on the final passage of said ordinance was as follows:

YeasM. G. Troup, C. C. Black, James M. Dever. Naysnone.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, May 6, 1875.

Council met May 3rd. Present: D. A. Millington, Mayor; N. M. Powers, M. G. Troup, C. C. Black, and J. M. Dever, Councilmen. Minutes of last meeting read and approved.

An ordinance to provide for the appointment of a clerk, treasurer, marshal, and city attorney, and defining the duties and pay of the same, was read and duly passed. The vote on the final passage was as follows: Yeas, Dever, Black, Powers, Troup. Nays, none.

The mayor with the consent of the council appointed J. C. Fuller, treasurer, and J. E. Allen, city attorney, in and for the city of Winfield.

Winfield Courier, June 24, 1875. Editorial Page.

Mr. J. C. Fuller showed us a letter, which he received from his brother at Chicago. Mr. Fuller had been sent out by the Chicago board of trade to look after the wheat prospect in the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Upon his return he reports that in the sections visited by him, the wheat crop was never better.

Winfield Courier, August 26, 1875.

DIED. On the morning of the 24th inst., the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, aged ten days.

Winfield Courier, October 28, 1875.

Railroad Meeting. Railroad meeting at the Courthouse Tuesday night, Oct. 26th, 1875.

Meeting called to order for the purpose of discussing the railroad question; organized by electing Dr. Mansfield chairman, and Amos Walton secretary. Col. Alexander stated the object of the meeting to be to work up correspondence with different parties on the railroad question.

Mayor Millington spoke at some length of the necessity of such an enterprise and that action should be taken immediately in order to cooperate with the counties north of us at once. On motion D. A. Millington, J. E. Platter, M. L. Robinson, and J. C. Fuller were appointed as a committee to carry out the intention of said meeting. On motion, adjourned.

W. Q. MANSFIELD, Chairman. A. WALTON, Secretary.

Winfield Courier, November 18, 1875.

THE RAILROAD MEETING AT ELDORADO. Last Friday, Nov. 14th, a large and earnest railroad meeting was held at Eldorado. Messrs. Meigs, Channell, McMullen, and Christian, from Arkansas City; Millington and Manning of Winfield, and Holmes and Lee, of Rock Township, were the representatives from Cowley County.

A large turn-out of active men of Butler County were present, and C. V. Eskridge, P. B. Plumb, E. P. Bancroft, and others from Emporia, and Messrs. Danford and Schenk of Osage City, and C. K. Holliday and Lakin, of Topeka, were present.

The meeting organized at 2 p.m. by choosing Neil Wilkie, of Douglass, as chairman. Mr. Bancroft, of Emporia, in a clear and comprehensive manner, presented statistics showing the advantage to the people and company of constructing a narrow gauge railroad in comparison to a wide gauge road.

Gov. Eskridge then spoke at some length demonstrating the ability of the people along the line to build and own a road from Emporia into the Walnut Valley.

Interesting speeches were made by Col. Plumb, D. A. Millington, and others.

Finally the citizens of Butler County present selected eight persons to cooperate with the representatives of Cowley in drafting articles of incorporation for a railroad company. After several hours of conference the two counties by their representatives agreed upon a charter form road beginning at Emporia, and run by the Walnut Valley to the south line of the State below Arkansas City.

The following named gentlemen were chosen directors.

P. B. Plumb, H. C. Cross, and A. A. Baker, Emporia; J. C. Becker, Chelsie; T. B. Murdock and A. L. Redden, Eldorado; E. L. Akin, Augusta; A. Cox, Walnut City; Neil Wilkie, Douglass; J. E. Platter and J. C. Fuller, Winfield; J. C. McMullen and S. P. Channell, Arkansas City.

The corporation is named the Walnut Valley R. R. Company.

The directors are to meet in Emporia on 23rd inst., to put the enterprise in motion. Of their action, we shall keep our readers posted. If possible, we shall attend the meeting.

Winfield Courier, November 18, 1875.

J. C. Fuller's six thousand pound fire and burglar proof safe has arrived.

Winfield Courier, November 25, 1875.

Mayor Millington is attending the Winfield Bank during Mr. Fuller's temporary absence.

Winfield Courier, November 25, 1875.

Messrs. Manning, Fuller, and Green left last Sunday morning for Wichita. Colonel Manning and Green will attend the U. S. court at Topeka, and Mr. Fuller goes to meet the other directors of the Walnut Valley R. R. Co. at Emporia.

[WALNUT VALLEY RAILROAD: FIRST MEETING OF DIRECTORS.]

Winfield Courier, December 2, 1875.

RECAP.

Directors present:

P. B. Plumb, H. C. Cross, A. A. BakerLyon County.

A. L. Redden, Neil Wilkie, T. B. Murdock, and J. C. Becker by T. B. Murdock as proxyButler County.

J. C. Fuller, S. P. Channell, and J. E. Platter, by E. C. Manning as proxyCowley County.

On motion E. C. Manning was chosen chairman and T. B. Murdock secretary of the meeting.

Resolved to construct, equip, and operate a railroad from Emporia and to Arkansas City by Oct. 1, 1877, on most practicable route.

OFFICERS ELECTED:

P. B. Plumb, Emporia, President.

J. C. Fuller, Winfield, Vice President.

H. C. Cross, Emporia, Treasurer.

T. B. Murdock, Eldorado, Secretary.

Winfield Courier, December 2, 1875.

J. C. Fuller is having his bank counters varnished and grained.

Excerpts...

1870.

Oct. 8th, a call for a "People's Convention" was issued, signed by W. Q. Mansfield, T. H. Johnson, T. A. Blanchard, James Renfro, James Land, D. A. Millington, Wm. Craig, F. A. Hunt, A. Menor, J. Mentch, T. B. Ross, and H. Wolf.

Under the call this convention met at Winfield, Oct. 20th, and nominated a full ticket, which will be found in the "Annals." The tickets nominated at the two conventions last mentioned, though called Republican and People's, really were composed of partisans to a strife that had been engendered between Winfield and Arkansas City for political and business supremacy in the county. The canvass preceding the election, which transpired Nov. 8th, was very spirited, almost bitter; the principal interest centering upon the candidates for representativeH. B. Norton and E. C. Manning. At that election 504 votes were cast, of which H. B. Norton received 256 and E. C. Manning 248. The remaining candidates upon the "People's" ticket received a small majority except the candidate for Register of Deeds and County Attorney.

When the Commissioners met to canvass the votes after the election, they found the returns to be in a crude and some of them in an unintelligible condition. In the language of G. H. Norton, one of the Commissioners, and a brother of H. B. Norton, "The next returns opened were objected to by Mr. Blanchard (another member of the board of canvassers) on the ground that he did not know where it came from. Upon examination I found there was nothing on them to indicate where they came from. I suggested to the board that perhaps they knew some of the names on the poll book and could tell from them what precinct the returns came from. The other members both stated they did not know any of the names and as I did not, I voted with them to reject the returns."

The rejection of the unintelligible returns gave the "People's" ticket a large majority except in the offices of County Attorney and Register of Deeds. The election of T. B. Ross was contested before T. H. Johnson, County Attorney, presiding as judge, with J. C. Fuller and E. S. Torrance, the incoming County Attorney, then a resident of Arkansas City, as associate judges. The "Court" decided that Ross was entitled to the certificate. Some steps were taken to contest Mr. Manning's seat in the legislature but the idea was finally abandoned.

1870

August 20th, A. A. Jackson sold out his claim to J. C. Fuller and D. A. Millington, who, with Manning, made arrangements to lay out more territory as a town site and induce persons to settle rapidly on the town sitegiving them the lots they should improve. During the fall of 1870 many persons settled upon the town site and made improvements. We cannot from this on, name all the persons that settled in Winfield in order, as that would be too voluminous, but will name the first in kind, business, or profession.

J. C. Fuller, the first banker.

1870

Though this country was practically open for settlement on the passage of the act of Congress of July 15th, 1870, in relation thereto; yet no one knew where his claim lines would run, because there had been no government survey. This survey did not occur until January, 1871. Immediately after the survey D. A. Millington, who was the first engineer and surveyor, surveyed and laid out into town lots and blocks, all the west half of Fuller's claim and east half of Manning's claim (not already laid out), and platted the whole as the town site of Winfield. Settlers continued to locate in Winfield until on the 10th day of July, 1871, there were 72 lots improved with 80 buildings. On that day the town site was entered by the Probate Judge, T. B. Ross.

1875

The third annual election was held April 5th, 1875. D. A. Millington was elected Mayor; W. M. Boyer, Police Judge; and M. G. Troup, N. M. Powers, J. Newman, J. M. Dever, and C. C. Black, Councilmen.

The Mayor and Council appointed B. F. Baldwin, Clerk; E. R. Evans, Marshal; J. E. Allen, Attorney; J. C. Fuller, Treasurer; and M. G. Troup, President of Council.

FULLER, J. C., is the proprietor of the Winfield Bank, the first bank in Cowley County; established in the spring of 1871. Of it we need say nothing; words of ours would add little to its prestige. He is also a co-partner of the town and one of its leading citizens. May the town become full of Fullers like J. C.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, January 20, 1876.

City Council met January 17th, 1876, at 7 o'clock P. M.

Present: D. A. Millington, Mayor; M. G. Troup, N. M. Powers, C. C. Black, Councilmen; J. E. Allen, City Attorney, and B. F. Baldwin, City Clerk.

Minutes of previous meetings were read and approved.

The report of J. C. Fuller, City Treasurer, referred to the Finance Committee at last regular meeting of the Council, was reported favorably on by said committee, and on motion of N. M. Powers, was duly received.

On motion of N. M. Powers, the Council ordered the City Treasurer to deliver to the City Clerk a certain journal and ledger now in his possession, and that the Clerk open up an account with the Treasurer of all orders drawn on the Treasurer and all receipts received from the Treasurer by him.

On motion the City Clerk was instructed to make and publish a financial statement, beginning May 1st, 1875, and ending December 31st, 1875, showing the amount of all monies collected by the city, from what source derived, and the disbursement of the same by the city.

[RAILROAD MEETING: RESIDENTS OF COWLEY COUNTY.]

Winfield Courier, January 27, 1876.

The undersigned, residents of Cowley County, cordially unite in inviting the citizens of said county to meet in mass meeting at Winfield, on Saturday at 2 P. M., FEBRUARY 5TH, to take such action as shall seem advisable upon consultation to secure the construction of a railroad into Cowley County. We desire each paper in said county to publish this call, and we hope that every township will be fully represented at said meeting.

Dated January 25, 1876.

WINFIELD: M. L. Read, S. D. Pryor, N. M. Powers, N. W. Holmes, N. L. Rigby, Thomas McMillen, L. J. Webb, Charles C. Black, J. S. Hunt, W. M. Boyer, John W. Curns, G. S. Manser, B. F. Baldwin, J. H. Land, A. H. Green, W. Q. Mansfield, E. C. Manning, S. H. Myton, J. C. Fuller, A. B. Lemmon, James Kelly, W. H. H. Maris, T. H. Henderson, A. N. Deming, H. S. Silver, J. M. Alexander, Amos Walton, D. A. Millington, J. E. Platter, W. M. Allison, And one hundred others.

Winfield Courier, February 10, 1876.

J. C. Fuller and S. P. Channell have gone to Topeka to look after railroad matters.

Arkansas City Traveler, February 16, 1876.

S. P. Channell returned from Topeka, last Thursday, where he had been as a representative of this place on the Narrow Gauge proposition from Kansas City and Emporia to Arkansas City. On the way he met Mr. J. C. Fuller, who represented Winfield, and the two represented Cowley County. Owing to a bill pending before the House of Representatives in the State Legislature, to amend the bond law, it was deemed best not to organize the company until the result of the bill was known; and the matter, for the present, is postponed. Mr. Fuller states that the people in the northern part of the State express more confidence and assurance that we are to have a road, than we ourselves do, but that is not to be wondered at, as they have not experienced so many buncomb propositions. All agree we are to have a road soon.

Winfield Courier, February 24, 1876.

See that fine stone walk in front of Manning and Fuller's new buildingthat is to be.

Winfield Courier, March 16, 1876.

Fuller is harrowing and rolling his forty-acre wheat patch.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, March 23, 1876.

Bill of J. C. Fuller, forty-four dollars, for rent for City Council room, from April 10th, 1875, to March 10th, 1876, at four dollars a month, was read, and on motion, was approved for forty- two dollars and sixty-five cents, and Clerk ordered to draw a warrant on the Treasurer for the same.

Winfield Courier, March 30, 1876.

Fuller's Bank has a new and handsome sign.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, May 4, 1876.

WINFIELD, KAN., May 1st, 1876.

City Council met in regular session at the Clerk's office, May 1st, 1876.

Present: D. A. Millington, Mayor; M. G. Troup, C. A. Bliss, H. Brotherton, A. B. Lemmon, and T. B. Myers, Councilmen; B. F. Baldwin, City Clerk; J. E. Allen, City Attorney.

The Mayor, with the consent and unanimous vote of the Council, made the following appointments for the year ensuing: For City Clerk, B. F. Baldwin, for City Treasurer, J. C. Fuller, for City Attorney, J. E. Allen.

Winfield Courier, May 18, 1876.

Fuller's blackberry bushes are full of blossoms.

[FOURTH OF JULY PREPARATIONS.]

Winfield Courier, June 1, 1876.

Last Saturday, pursuant to call, the citizens of Winfield met at the Courthouse and organized a meeting by calling D. A. Millington to the chair and electing C. M. McIntire secretary.

After deliberation as to what steps should be taken to appropriately celebrate the 4th of July of the Centennial year, the following committee was appointed to draft a plan of procedure and report to a meeting of citizens last night: James Kelly, J. P. Short, C. M. McIntire, W. B. Gibbs, and W. C. Robinson.

At the appointed hour, Wednesday evening, the meeting assembled at the Courthouse and organized by selecting C. A. Bliss, chairman, and J. E. Allen as secretary. The committee made a report which, after some amendments made by the meeting, was finally adopted.

General Superintendent: Prof. A. B. Lemmon.

County Historian: W. W. Walton.

Committee of Arrangements: C. M. Wood, M. L. Bangs, B. B. Vandeventer, John Lowry, J. D. Cochran.

Committee on Programme: H. D. Gans, E. P. Kinne, James Kelly, B. F. Baldwin, W. M. Allison.

Committee on Speakers: E. C. Manning, L. J. Webb, Chas. McIntire.

Committee on Finance: W. C. Robinson, W. P. Hackney, O. F. Boyle, M. G. Troup, J. C. Fuller.

Committee on Music: J. D. Pryor, Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Miss Mollie Bryant.

Committee on Toasts: A. J. Pyburn, J. E. Allen, J. P. Short, Dr. J. Hedrick.

Committee on Stand: W. E. Tansey, T. B. Myers, W. B. Gibbs.

Committee on Decoration: Frank Gallotti, John Swain, I. Randall, Mary Stewart, Jennie Greenlee, Ada Millington, Mrs. Rigby, Mrs. Mansfield.

Committee on Invitation: D. A. Millington, L. C. Harter, J. B. Lynn, C. A. Bliss, J. P. McMillen, H. S. Silver, A. H. Green, S. S. Majors, C. M. Scott, T. B. McIntire, R. C. Haywood, J. L. Abbott, John Blevins, T. R. Bryan, H. C. McDorman, Mc. D. Stapleton, S. M. Fall, J. Stalter, Wm. White, S. S. Moore, Jno. McGuire, H. P. Heath, J. O. Van Orsdol, G. B. Green, W. B. Skinner, J. W. Millspaugh.

Committee on Fireworks: G. S. Manser, T. K. Johnson, C. C. Haskins.

Meeting adjourned to meet at the call of the General Superintendent.

Winfield Courier, June 1, 1876.

Messrs. Platter, Fuller, and Thompson have purchased a header for their extensive wheat fields.

Winfield Courier, June 1, 1876.

Banks. Arkansas City Bank, Arkansas City; Cowley County Bank, Arkansas City; banking house of M. L. Read, and Winfield Bank of J. C. Fuller, Winfield. The total amount of capital of these banks is $51,300.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1876.

We received a letter from "Scott" last Friday evening, dated Cadiz, Ohio, July 31, stating that he had "done" the Centennial, and was of the opinion that it was "some pumpkins" of a show. Scott met Rev. Platter, J. C. Fuller, and Mr. Hitchcock, of Winfield, in Philadelphia, and saw Col. J. C. McMullen, of this place, in a street car. He also reported the weather cool and delightful.

Winfield Courier, August 24, 1876.

J. C. FULLER and family returned last Friday from the Centennial in good health and spirits. He visited many old friends during his trip, besides taking in the big show. He was very cordially welcomed home.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 30, 1876.

J. C. FULLER, of Winfield, has returned from the Centennial.

Winfield Courier, August 31, 1876.

Millington, Fuller, Kelly, and Buckman are the champion croquet players.

Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876.

Five hundred and sixty bushels were threshed from Fuller's wheat stacks last Monday.

Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876.

MR. FULLER threshed his wheat this week. It turned out 16½ bushels to the acre. How's that for sod wheat?

[ARREST: NOTORIOUS CHARLES HOWERTSON.]

Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.

An Arrest. Monday evening the crowd around Fuller's bank and near the apple wagons on Main street had an opportunity to see the neatest magisterial job that has been performed in this county for some time.

Information was given Sheriff Walker that one of the apple peddlers from Arkansas on our streets was the notorious Charles Howertson, of Knox County, Missouri, who, in July last shot and killed one Hiner, near Edina, in that county. The informant, one of the best citizens of our county (we refrain from giving his name for prudential reasons), knew Howertson personally a few years ago, and recognized him in his new role of apple vender.

Walker prepared to arrest him and to make assurance doubly sure, called in A. H. Green, who performed the part of confidence man to perfection. When everything was in readiness, Green stepped up behind their man and spoke out quick and sharp, "How do you do, Howertson?" at the same time extending his hand for a "shake." Howertson, taken by surprise, of course, turned round quickly when the name was spoken and advanced a step to meet the supposed acquaintance.

At this juncture Walker closed his vice-like grip on the Missourian's arm and informed him that he was a prisoner. Howertson made an attempt to draw his revolver, which was in his right hand pocket, but of course failed. The boys were too much for him. They unarmed him and marched him off to the calaboose.

When informed of the charge against him, he admitted that he did shoot a man in Missouri last July, and added that if the Sheriff hadn't got the drop on him, he would have shot him. He says the man Hiner that he shot is not dead yet, but the Hiner that his brother shot died. It seems that the two Howertsons got into a difficulty with the two Hiners, which terminated in the death of one of the latter and the wounding of the other.

The Howertsons fled to Arkansas, and have eluded the officers up to the present time. Sheriff Walker telegraphed to the Sheriff of Knox County, notifying him of the arrest. The Howertsons are said to be desperate and lawless men. They were "rebel bushwhackers" during the late war and led a terrible life.

Winfield Courier, October 12, 1876.

BIRTH. LOU HARTER, the senior member of the New York Store firm, arrived home last Saturday "right side up with care," and found another clerk, weighing about ten pounds, bossing the home establishment. Mr. Harter visited St. Louis, Chicago, and New York during his absence, and in those cities purchased an unusual amount of goods especially for this market. His experience in the railroad disaster on the North Missouri is rather amusing. He says he wasn't hurt much, but he lost a five dollar hat, consequent upon his hair trying to maintain a perpendicular position. He visited the Centennial, and now, like Messrs. Black, Fuller, Graham, and the rest, can tell you all about "that exquisitely finished, gaily ornamented, wonderfully proportioned, and elaborately carved bed-stead, in the Japanese department, that took a thousand men a thousand years to build."

Winfield Courier, October 19, 1876.

BIRTHS. Four Family "fysicians" couldn't keep run of the "advents" of late in this town. A new bankeress, a new city marshaless, and we don't-know-what-else. This we do know. Messrs. Fuller, Denning, and Huey are the proudest men in the cityexcept Troup. Troup said it was a whole Troup in itself, weighed a ton, and would vote for Hayes and Wheeler.

Winfield Courier, November 30, 1876.

Bank Notice. The undersigned Bankers of Winfield give notice that on and after Dec. 1st, 1876, their respective banks will open for business at 9 o'clock a.m., and close at promptly 4 o'clock p.m. No business transacted out of banking hours. M. L. READ, J. C. FULLER.

Winfield, Kansas, November 27, 1876.

Winfield Courier, January 18, 1877. E. C. Manning, Editor.

ALAS, ALAS! The second election in Sycamore Township, Butler County, to vote the bonds of the township to the proposed branch of the A. T. & S. F. road to Eldorado, was held on Tuesday, the 9th inst., and the proposition was again defeated by three or four votes. The township is twenty-three miles long and eight miles wide and contains 117,700 acres of land and thirty-seven voters. But the necessary two-thirds vote could not be obtained. Eldorado ought to have bulldozed that three or four votes. This must put a quietus on the Eldorado bob-tail for awhile. Sycamore and Bazar Townships on the line have failed to give the required aid. Emporia, as usual, helped to thwart the bob-tail. Friend T. B. Murdock took the management of that railroad into his hands one year ago last November. He would have a railroad to Eldorado in less than no time and down the valley a few minutes afterward. Nearly fifteen months have passed away and Eldorado and the Walnut Valley are no nearer a road than in Nov. 1875. At the December, 1875, meeting in Emporia, we presented a plan whereby a road could be built to Winfield in 1876. Murdock and his Emporia friends voted it down. Now Emporia is red hot for a road on that plan and Eldorado and Augusta have each held meetings and resolved in favor of the same plan. Then was the time to move, but Butler and Emporia would not. A railroad company (local) was perfected at the Emporia meeting. Col. Plumb was made President, T. B. Murdock, Secretary, J. C. Fuller and J. E. Platter, of Winfield, directors. The directors ordered the secretary to open subscription books along the line from Emporia to Arkansas City. The secretary did not do it. The directors ordered the officers to employ an engineer and party, to have the survey of the line made at once and the right of way obtained. The officers did not do it. The directors from Cowley County pledged the money to pay for the survey in Cowley County, the directors in Butler and Lyon Counties did not come to time with their share. The directors in Cowley County pledged individual subscriptions to the capital stock to the amount of fifty thousand dollars. No opportunity to subscribe was offered.

The Secretary did not attempt to obtain subscriptions. He was going to have a standard gauge road to Eldorado, have it at once, have a bob tail, and hold the end on the Eldorado town site. Murdock & Co. were going to secure such legislation last winter as would enable them to carry out their plans. The legislation they obtained is what defeated them. The editor of the Times said funny things about the editor of the COURIER, and quoted "Mary had a little lamb" at his expense, when the COURIER raised up on its ear concerning the policy pursued by the Eldoradoites.

Gentlemen, the COURIER told you "sum leedle dings" then which you did not believe but which you now realize. By your leave, or without your leave, it will tell you "sum leedle dings" now, and you can believe them and act upon them as you see fit. This is our suggestion: BEFORE YOU TAKE ANY STEPS TOWARDS CONSTRUCTING A RAIL ROAD INSERT THE WORD "MAJORITY" IN SECTION FIVE OF CHAP. CIVII, LAWS OF 1876.

Our suggestion is more significant than we can tell you now.

Winfield Courier, February 22, 1877. Editorial Page.

WHO ARE DISAPPOINTED. The taxpayers and farmers of Winfield Township are grievously disappointed at the action of Saturday's meeting. They are no more so than the same class of men all over the county. It is a common cause. That our readers may see that our conclusions are justified, we give the names of the following heaviest taxpayers in town, who were in favor of a change of the law, and who have so expressed themselves: C. A. Bliss, C. C. Black, Dr. W. R. Davis, Col. J. M. Alexander, J. C. Fuller, J. B. Lynn, Dr. W. Q. Mansfield, B. F. Baldwin, D. A. Millington, Rev. J. E. Platter, J. P. Short, S. H. Myton, E. C. Manning, R. Hudson, W. L. Mullen, Wm. Rodgers, Max Shoeb, Ira Moore, J. P. McMillen, J. M. Bair, J. S. Hunt.

Besides these gentlemen there is a large class of smaller taxpayers in town of the same mind. Outside of the city limits four-fifths of the farmers are in favor of a change in the law.

Winfield Courier, March 29, 1877. Editorial Page.

DISREPUTABLE. The effort to precipitate a bond election for the Emporia road comes entirely from Arkansas City. And the men who are circulating the petitions tell all kinds of lies to obtain signatures. A gentleman from Crab Creek, below Dexter, was in town on Wednesday and at Harter's store told that he was harrowing in his field when parties from Arkansas City came to him with a railroad petition and told him it was for a road from Independence to Arkansas City. Taking their word for it, he signed it without reading. Two gentlemen from Maple City were in town the same day and told the same story. Another gentleman from the southeast part of the county told Mr. Fuller the same story. Another petitioner from Arkansas City told Mr. Standley, who lives up the Walnut, that he was from Winfield.

Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877.

The new city council appointed Henry E. Asp City Clerk and J. C. Fuller City Treasurer.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877.

City Council met at the Mayor's office pursuant to a special call of the Council April 6th, 1877.

Present: R. L. Walker, Mayor; A. G. Wilson, H. Jochems, A. E. Baird, C. M. Wood, and S. C. Smith, Councilmen; B. F. Baldwin, City Clerk.

The Clerk read the call for the special meeting and the Council proceeded with the special business by electing S. C. Smith President of the Council.

The Clerk read the following appointments made by the Mayor for the subordinate city offices for the year: City Attorney, J. E. Allen; City Clerk, B. F. Baldwin; City Treasurer, J. C. Fuller; City Marshal, J. D. Cochran.

Winfield Courier, April 26, 1877.

Forgery. Zebulon Foster, charged with the crime of forgery, is in custody awaiting trial at the next term of court. Zeb. sold a note for fifty-five dollars on Monday to M. L. Robinson. The names of John and Sol Smith, and Barney Shriver had been put to the note and he expected to get the money for it from one of the banks. He offered to sell it to Mr. Fuller, of the Winfield Bank, but did not effect a sale for the paper as it did not look just right. He then took it to Mr. Read's bank and Mr. M. L. Robinson received the paper and was to have paid him for it as soon as the young man could produce a reference. Having obtained possession of the note, Mr. Robinson was looking for the sheriff while the young man was hunting a reference. As a result of all the good management on one side and bad management on the other, Zeb. and Dick. were soon walking the streets arm in arm. Zeb. is now waiting to learn what Judge Campbell and a jury of twelve men will have to say about the matter of writing other people's names to promises to pay.

Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.

J. C. Fuller makes an addition to his ad this week. He has one of the best burglar proof safes in the State, which is guarded by the Yale time lock. No city in Kansas has two sounder, safer banking institutions than those of J. C. Fuller and of M. L. Read, of Winfield.

Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.

J. C. Fuller has laid out an addition to Winfield on the east side of town.

Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.

J. C. Fuller sold T. M. McGuire, E. P. Kinne, and E. S. Bedilion each a quarter of a block in his new addition, east of town, for residences.

Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.

J. C. Fuller sold, this week, a half block north of his present residence to Rev. J. C. Schurz.

Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.

J. C. Fuller has commenced the building of a new residence on his square southeast of the courthouse. It is supposed it will be something fine.

Excerpts...

Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.

This is one of the few towns in Kansas that manage to keep its streets cumbered with building material the year round. Since I was here in the summer, two dozen houses have been built, and fifty are now under way. The principle ones of the former are Lynn & Gillelen's two story cut stone, 25 x 100 feet, and a brick hotel at the south end of town. Among the latter, as conspicuous and handsome as any will be, the elegant seven thousand dollar residence of Mr. J. C. Fuller, President of the Winfield Bank. Mr. Fuller has been here since 1870, established the first bank in the county, and has large and valuable tracts of real estate adjoining the town. He has recently laid off a part of his land in an addition, and is selling some very desirable residence plats. The other bank is that of M. L. Read, of which M. L. Robinson is cashier and W. C. Robinson assistant. This bank has been established five years, and occupies the first brick building in Cowley County.

Both banks are doing a good business and have the entire confidence of the community. They are supplied with the celebrated "Yale Time" locks.

The most prominent real estate dealers are J. C. Fuller, E. C. Manning, and A. H. Green.

Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.

Winfield Socially. The coming winter bids fair to be the most pleasant, socially, that Winfieldians have ever experienced. Many changes have taken place in the circle of young folks since the good old frontier days. New and attractive young ladies and gentlemen have settled amongst us, giving to Winfield an air of city life and gaiety when they meet "in convention assembled." The recent Thanksgiving ball was followed so closely by Miss Kate Millington's "dancing party," and both so largely attended, that the indications are that those "who look for pleasure can hope to find it here" this winter. The last mentioned party, to use a stereotyped expression, was a "brilliant success." Probably of all the gay and charming gatherings that have "tripped the fantastic," etc., in our city, this was the most pleasant. The music was excellent, the refreshments good, and the polite and attentive demeanor of the fair hostess most agreeable.

The following persons were fortunate enough to be present at this party: Judge W. P. Campbell, of Wichita; W. W. Walton, of Topeka; Herman Kiper, of Atchison; Fred C. Hunt, W. C. Walker, Bert Crapster, Ed. P. Greer, Charley Harter, J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. J. Holloway, Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Green, Mr. and Mrs. Virgil Harter, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Earnest, Mr. and Mrs. James Kelly, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Thompson, Miss Ina Daniels, S. Suss, Josephine E. Mansfield, G. E. Walker, Mary McGaughy, M. B. Wallis, Fannie Wallis, Wilbur Dever, Maggie J. Dever, W. C. Root, Jennie Hahn, W. Gillelen, Mattie Coldwell, J. N. Harter, Carrie Olds, T. C. Copeland, Katie McGaughy, O. M. Seward, Nora Coldwell, Dr. Strong, Amie Bartlett.

Of course, they one and all enjoyed themselves; wished the occasion might be often repeated, and voted (in their minds at least) Miss Kate to be the most "social campaign organizer" in the city.

Winfield Courier, January 10, 1878.

Girl Wanted. Inquire at the Winfield Bank of J. C. Fuller.

Winfield Courier, January 10, 1878.

Lost. A gold locket marked "Nannie," between Main street and the stone quarry 2½ miles east of town. The finder will be suitably rewarded by leaving it at Fuller's bank.

Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.

An ordinance to increase the limits of the city of Winfield.

Be it ordained by the Mayor and Councilmen of the city of Winfield.

SECTION 1. That the limits of the city of Winfield be increased by the addition thereto, and the incorporation therein, of the territory adjacent thereto, platted and recorded by E. C. Manning, in the office of the Register of Deeds, of Cowley County, Kansas, and by the addition thereto, and the incorporation therein, of the territory adjacent thereto, platted and recorded by M. L. Read, in said office, and by the addition thereto and the incorporation therein, of the territory adjacent thereto, platted and recorded by J. C. Fuller in said office.

SECTION 2. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication once in the Winfield COURIER and Cowley County Telegram.

Approved January 12, 1878. R. L. WALKER, Mayor.

Attest: HENRY E. ASP, City Clerk.

Winfield Courier, January 31, 1878.

J. Hoenscheidt is the architect employed by J. C. Fuller, M. L. Robinson, Jay Page, the Misses Aldrich, E. P. Hickok, C. Farringer, and others in the erection of their new residences. These residences will be built in modern style, to combine symmetry and beauty with convenience and stability, and will cost from two to seven thousand dollars each; hence the propriety of employing a first-class architect.

Winfield Courier, February 7, 1878.

The city council recently extended the city limits to include Fuller's, Manning's, and Read's additions.

Winfield Courier, February 7, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to H. I. Shafer, lot 4, block 209, Winfield; $40.

Winfield Courier, February 28, 1878.

Mr. J. C. Fuller is building a mansion in the eastern part of town. It is a frame with brick veneera style new to Kansas, but in successful use in Northern Illinois and Wisconsin for the last ten years. It is elegant in all its appointments and will be supplied with hot air furnace, water, baths, speaking tubes, and all modern conveniences. The interior will be finished with walnut and ash, and the grounds will be handsomely ornamented with terraces and fountains.

Winfield Courier, February 28, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to E. S. Bedilion, lot 4, block 231; Winfield.

Winfield Courier, March 7, 1878.

W. A. Lee has a fine stock of plows and other implements just back of Fuller's bank. Call and see him.

Winfield Courier, March 7, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

M. G. Troup, county clerk, furnishes the following report.

J. C. Fuller and wife to E. S. Bedilion, Winfield, lots 4, 5, 6, block 231, $120.00.

Winfield Courier, March 14, 1878.

J. C. Fuller has launched out in the fast team line. He thinks his spanking blacks are just a little ahead of all competitors.

Winfield Courier, April 18, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to Sarah A. Whitson, lot 7, block 231, Winfield, $500.00.

Excerpts...

Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 25, 1878.

WINFIELD, KANSAS, APRIL 10. Winfield is the county seat of Cowley County. It is situated on the Walnut River, about fifteen miles from the south line of the state. It contains a population of sixteen hundred people. It is one of the best and most prosperous towns in Kansas. The streets are crowded with teams, and the entire appearance of the place gives evidence of life, thrift, and prosperity. There are a large number of residences in process of erection, many of which are fine, commodious buildings, among which may be mentioned the house of J. C. Fuller, banker, which, when completed, will be one of the best in the county.

There are three banks here, viz: M. L. Read's, Citizens' Bank, and J. C. Fuller.

Read's Bank is located in a fine two story brick. The gentlemen connected with it, including Mr. Read and the Robinsons, are genial gentlemen and successful businessmen.

J. C. Fuller is the oldest banker in the county. He is prudent, safe, and responsible.

The Citizen's Bank was formerly located in Arkansas City, J. C. McMullen is President and A. Berkey cashier. It has about twenty-five farms for sale on long time and low rates.

Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to Sarah A. Calkins, lot 9, block 271, Winfield.

Winfield Courier, July 4, 1878.

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

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, July 4, 1878.

J. C. Fuller's contract for laying sidewalks was read but no action taken on the same.

Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to H. Jochems, lots 7, 8, and 9, block 207, Winfield, $100.

J. C. Fuller and wife to John C. Schurz, lots 4, 5, and 6, block 207, Winfield; $100.

J. C. Fuller and wife to Louisa J. Black, lots 16 and 17, block 131, Winfield, $80.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, July 18, 1878.

Motion to indefinitely postpone action on J. C. Fuller contract was lost.

Winfield Courier, August 8, 1878.

J. C. Fuller has got his steeple tinned.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, August 8, 1878.

J. C. Fuller contract for laying sidewalk approved.

Winfield Courier, August 29, 1878.

J. C. Fuller's residence is enclosed and looks more imposing than we anticipated.

Winfield Courier, September 12, 1878.

Real Estate Transfers.

J. C. Fuller and wife to N. E. Newell, lot 12, block 128, Winfield; $40.

Winfield Courier, October 24, 1878. D. A. Millington, Editor.

STEALING THE TOWN SITE. A SCRAP OF HISTORY.

Allison and other speakers in the interest of Troup, in their violent efforts to charge some evil against E. C. Manning, are making the statement that Manning stole the town site of Winfield, and that it is from the money that he got for lots belonging to others, which has erected his magnificent building.

Now, some of the men who most strenuously insisted on Manning's candidacy at this time, and who are among his most earnest supporters, are men who fought him all through this town site contest and know, if anyone does, of any wrong that he did in relation to that matter. If they do not know of any, no one does.

But when such a charge is made, it is not against Manning alone, but becomes a personal charge against the senior editor of this paper and others associated with Manning in the town site enterprise, and we now propose to answer it by stating the facts which all who are familiar with the past history of this city know to be true, for the information of such voters as were not here, and know these matters only by hearsay.

The settlement of this county commenced in 1869, before the treaty for the removal of the Indians was made; before there was any survey of the lands or any steps taken to open these lands up for settlement, by settlers coming in and making claims of 160 acres each and improving them, which claims were afterward secured to these settlers by law. Among these claimants were E. C. Manning and A. A. Jackson, who made claims on what is now the north half of section 28. A. Menor and H. C. Loomis laid claims on the south half of same section, and C. M. Wood and W. W. Andrews claimed the half section next north of this section. Each of these claimants proceeded to occupy and improve his claim, and had as good a right to his claim as any man had on this reserve. Each had the undisputed right to prove up and enter his claim when the land should be ready to be offered.

In 1870 these several parties and others formed the project of making a town site. A town company was formed and Manning was to give the town company a certain 40 acres of his claim when he had entered it, for which the company was to pay one-half of the expense of building the old log store. Jackson, Wood, Andrews, Loomis, and Menor were all to sell portions of their claims to the town company at about seven dollars per acre, so that in the aggregate the town site should be 160 acres.

In August, 1870, we, in company with J. C. Fuller, came here. Jackson was then "off the track," denying having agreed to sell any part of his claim and stating that he never would sell any of it to the town company. We bought Jackson's claim for J. C. Fuller, paying Jackson $1,000 in cash for it.

It was found that neither of the other parties would sell any part of their claims to the town company, but Manning turned over his 40 acres to the town company as it had been agreed, and this was all the land that the town company could get out of the original arrangement.

No one then doubted the right of E. C. Manning to the remaining 120 acres of his claim, or of J. C. Fuller to his 160 acre claim bought of Jackson. In the meantime, through the efforts of Manning exclusively, the county seat had been located at Winfield, at which time Manning was the only occupant, and, deeming it necessary to move ahead in building up the town in order to retain the county seat and other advantages, and as there was not land enough belonging to the town company, the Winfield Town Association was formed by Manning, Fuller, and others, including ourself, to handle another 40 acres of Manning's claim with the west 80 acres of Fuller's claim, which, with the town company's 40 acres, made a town site of 160 acres in square form. This was surveyed and platted, and the two companies proceeded to give away lots to persons who would improve and occupy them, to other persons who would work for the benefit of the town in any way, and for other purposes to benefit the town. More than one-third, and nearly one-half of the lots in value, have been given to occupants, to stage companies to induce stage service to Winfield, for services in and outside of Winfield, for churches, schools, courthouse and jail, and for other public purposes.

The two companies with Manning, Fuller, and ourself, have paid out in the aggregate more than five thousand dollars in cash for the general benefit of the town site in various ways, aside from buildings for personal use. These expenses are too various for enumeration, and perhaps some of these expenditures were not judicious. One hundred dollars to procure early railroad surveys to this place, for instance, also ninety dollars for printing and circulating posters and papers to advertise the town, two hundred dollars to enter the town site, expenses in traveling to railroad director's meetings, making a ferry across the Walnut, running roads, surveying the town site, employing legal counsel, etc. Each of us have expended a great deal of time in various ways intended to benefit the town.

The parties who were induced to occupy and improve lots on the town site before the survey and before the entry, did so under an express agreement, generally in writing, as to what their individual interests in the town site should be and what should be the interests of the town companies. The government survey took place in January, 1871, and on the 10th day of July, 1871, the land became subject to entry at the land office at Augusta.

In nearly all the other town sites of the state made before entry, the original claimants entered the land and then deeded to the occupants, town companies, and others, according to previous agreement, and that was originally the intention with regard to this town site, but the commissioner of the general land office had made a ruling in the case of this reserve, that the claimant must, before entering, subscribe an oath, that he had not sold or agreed to sell or otherwise dispose of, any part of the claim he proposed to enter, and though this ruling was clearly outside of law and the oath if taken would not be an oath at all in fact (as afterwards decided by the courts) yet Manning and Fuller did not like to conform to it as others were doing. They, therefore, procured the probate judge of the county to enter the town site under the town site laws, and then each entered the other 80 acres of his claim in his own name.

About this time became manifest a disposition of some of the occupants to claim more of the town site than the lots they had improved and quite an excitement sprung up. In order to avoid litigation and make an equitable settlement, Manning called a public meeting in which he offered for the two companies to submit all the matters of difference to arbitration, the companies naming one arbitrator, the dissatisfied occupants the second, and the two thus appointed to select the third, who should hear the evidence of all parties and determine their interests and rights in the town site and their decision should be final, which proposition was voted down and rejected by the dissatisfied occupants. It has since frequently been offered to individuals.

The probate judge, under the law, appointed three commissioners to set off the lots to the several occupants according to their respective interests, and they made their award in accordance with the previous agreement between the occupants and companies as to what those interests should be as above stated and the probate judge executed the deeds accordingly.

The larger number of the occupants expressed themselves satisfied, and to quiet the titles made quit claim deeds to the companies of their interests in the unimproved lots. A few would not be satisfied, but commenced an action to set aside the deeds made by the probate judge. This action was in the courts some time and was finally beaten in the Supreme court on demurrer.

Another action was commenced having the same final object in view, which was finally beaten in the Supreme court. The companies in order to try to get the people to work in harmony for the general benefit of the city, made a great many concessions to pacify these litigants.

During the pendency of the first action, a settlement was made with A. A. Jackson, a leading disturber and plaintiff in that action, by which, in addition to the $1,000 and the two valuable lots that had already been given him, the companies gave him two other valuable lots for any remaining or supposed interest he had in the balance of the town site and the nominal sum of $25, and he withdrew from the suit.

Others were compromised with in various ways, and made quit claims, quiet was restored and all seemed united to promote the general prosperity. These litigations had been very expensive and damaging to the prosperity of the town and had stirred up much bad blood, making Manning many bitter opposers, but in the few years since, the bitterness has mostly died away.

Jackson concluded to grab another valuable lot and Hill & Christie brought suit for possession. Jackson defended on the ground that the deed of the probate judge to the Winfield town company on which Hill & Christie's title was founded was illegal and void. Jackson employed Hon. A. J. Pyburn and two other attorneys to defend, but was beaten in the trial. As the law provides for a second trial in a case of this nature, this action is now pending in the district court for a new trial.

Two attorneys whom Jackson employed were newcomers and had not gained a practice in the courts. They attempted to start a practice and make a reputation by stirring up a grand litigation on this old town site matter, assured parties that they could burst up the whole thing, get the deeds of the probate judge set aside and a new deal of the town lots. They offered to take the job for one-third of the spoils and urged upon the city council to commence litigation at the public expense.

They finally got A. A. Jackson to go in as plaintiff and a suit was commenced against the Town Company, Manning and Fuller, with a great flourish of trumpets about their ponderous papers and pleadings, but no notice was taken of their summons until court time and they demanded judgment for default, when they learned that they did not know how to get a case into court. They now seemed to conclude that the reason they got beat each time was the fault of the law, and set themselves to manipulate politics so as to get a law passed that would help them beat in these cases, and in another case in which they have succeeded in getting an elderly woman, who had a lot given her, and a slab shanty on it at the time of the entry, to start another suit for a rip up of titles and a new deal.

Pyburn, one of Jackson's attorneys, is a member of the State Senate and it is thought he can be depended upon to get the new law through the Senate, and, if they can get Troup elected to the House, they feel confident they can pass a law that will beat Hill & Christie, town company, et al., in their pending suits and everybody else that holds title under either of the town companies.

This is the real attempt to steal the town site, but not by Manning. We have no apprehension that any law they can get passed, or any litigation under it, or under the present law, will ever void the titles to the town site, but we do apprehend that it might promote and cause a vast amount of expensive litigation which would be a great detriment to the city by throwing doubt upon titles; make much room for vicious lawyers to practice barratry and champerty, and stir up more bad blood without the least benefit to anyone except the lawyers employed in the matter.

By the way, the lots which Manning has been selling to help build his brick block are in the part of his original claim which he entered himself, and not in that part which was entered by the probate judge, if that makes any difference. Manning probably never got much, if anything, more for lots on the town site than he has expended for the general benefit of the town.

This way of commencing a suit in the courts and then getting a law passed by the legislature to rule and decide the case is a new invention in litigation which no Yankee lawyer would have ever thought of. Such are the facts about stealing the town site.

Winfield Courier, October 31, 1878.

WINFIELD, October 30, 1878.

After this date Mexican dollars will be received by us at 90 cents.

M. L. ROBINSON, Cashier Read's Bank.

J. C. FULLER, Winfield Bank.

B. F. BALDWIN, Cashier Citizens' Bank.

WINFIELD, October 18, 1878.

Winfield Courier, November 14, 1878.

J. C. Fuller has gone to Topeka to talk railroad.

Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878. Editorial.

AMENDED RAILROAD PROPOSITION. We have been severely criticized for our course in regard to the A., T. & S. F. proposition for the construction of a railroad into and through this county because we protested against voting $180,000 bonds. A packed meeting was held in Winfield about two weeks ago seemingly for the purpose of "sitting down" upon us. In that meeting we claimed that the amount asked was too great and urged that an effort be made to secure a reduction. We plead for the men who will have to pay these bonds rather than for the ones who hope to make a few hundred dollars out of town lots. We were satisfied that in accepting that proposition our county was made the victim of somebody's stupidity. In all our conversations with Mr. Strong, of the Santa Fe road, no such a sum as $180,000 has ever been mentioned. We were confident that by proper management the road could have been secured for $130,000 or less, and were unwilling to fasten this additional burden of $50,000 upon the industries of this county.

The meeting refused to make any attempt to secure a reduction of the amount proposed. Men who seemed to have the interest of the A., T. & S. F. corporation more at heart than those of our county, allowed a determination to carry these bonds in spite of everything. We were quietly informed that unless we "came to time" and "danced to the Music" of a little railroad ring, it would not be well with us. We did not dance, but in spite of the action of the meeting mentioned above continued to work for a reduction.

Last week the senior editor of the COURIER wrote an amended proposition reducing the bonds to be voted $40,000 and locating the depot a half mile nearer the center of town than the old. This proposition was carried to Topeka by J. C. Fuller and C. M. Wood. They and Mr. Lemmon presented the proposition to Mr. Strong and urged its acceptance. After a short discussion he consented to a reduction of $36,000, and promised to have a new proposition for not more than $144,000 written and ready for the committee by the next morning.

Whether or not Mr. Strong received dispatches from this place, we do not know, but for some reason he afterwards increased the amount to $148,000, and this sum was mentioned in the amended proposition that was forwarded the next day.

While this amount is $18,000 more than we think it should be, while it is that sum greater than we think it would have been had this matter been properly arranged from the first, we believe that the best thing that can be done now is to accept the proposition and vote the $148,000 bonds.

That the Santa Fe folks intend to build the road at once if we vote these bonds we have no doubt. It will surprise us if the cars are not running to the south line of the State in time for the Texas cattle trade of next year. We are satisfied that the company means business and that the work will be pushed as rapidly as possible. The grading of the road will probably be done this winter. This will give work at good prices in cash to many laboring men. Men of capital will find their way to our town and county and a new era of prosperity will dawn upon us. Business of all kinds will receive a new impetus. The building of the road will put money into the pockets of all of us. It will give that stability which is necessary to prosperity. Let us do our part at once. We cannot afford to delay longer.

Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.

J. C. Fuller and C. M. Wood returned from Topeka, where, with the assistance of A. B. Lemmon, they succeeded in getting the Santa Fe railroad proposition to our county reduced $32,000 in the amount of bonds required.

Homer G. Fuller, brother, visiting in Winfield...

Winfield Courier, December 5, 1878.

Mr. Homer G. Fuller, of Mason City, Illinois, brother of our banker, is visiting in this city.

Mrs. J. C. Fuller...

Winfield Courier, December 12, 1878.

MANNING'S OPERA HOUSE.

Opening Benefit. The citizens of Winfield and vicinity purpose giving an entertainment benefit on TUESDAY EVENING, DEC. 17, 1878, at Manning's Opera House, to show their appreciation of the enterprise of a citizen who has erected a magnificent hall in our city.

COMMITTEE ON ARRANGEMENTS: E. P. KINNE, JOHN HOENSCHEIDT, R. L. WALKER, J. W. McDONALD, W. M. ALLISON.

COMMITTEE ON REFRESHMENTS: A. A. JACKSON, MRS. DR. BLACK, MISS MARY STEWART, FRANK WILLIAMS, MRS. JAMES KELLY, MRS. J. C. FULLER, MRS. T. A. WILKINSON.

COMMITTEE ON TABLE: MRS. A. J. THOMPSON, MRS. P. STUMP, MRS. C. A. BLISS, MRS. J. M. PEED, MRS. J. OLDS.

DECORATING COMMITTEE: MRS. W. Q. MANSFIELD, C. E. STEUVEN, J. M. REED.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC: ROBERTS, WILKINSON, AND CRIPPEN.

VOCAL MUSIC: PROF. C. FARRINGER, MRS. JOHN SWAIN, G. H. BUCKMAN, MISS JENNY HANE, MISS MAGGIE DEVER.

COMMITTEE ON TOASTS: D. A. MILLINGTON, GEORGE W. ROBINSON, F. S. JENNINGS.

RECEPTION COMMITTEE:

WinfieldJ. B. Lynn and O. M. Seward.

Arkansas CityC. M. Scott.

DexterDr. Wagner.

LazetteMc. D. Stapleton.

DouglasNeil Wilkie.

OxfordDr. Maggard.

FLOOR MANAGERS: W. GILLELEN, A. H. GREEN, AND L. S. COOK.

[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]

Winfield Courier, December 26, 1878.

The following resolution was introduced, read, and unanimously adopted:

Resolved, That that portion of the southeast quarter of section 28, township 32 south, of range 4 east, known, platted, and filed for record as Fuller's second addition to the city of Winfield be, and the same is hereby declared to be within the incorporated limits of the city of Winfield.

[LIST OF NEW BUILDINGS ERECTED SINCE JANUARY 1, 1878.]

Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 2, 1879.

The following is a list of new buildings erected in the city of Winfield since January 1, 1878, with the name of owner and cost of building.

J. C. Fuller, residence, brick: $10,000.

J. C. Fuller, addition, residence, frame: $150.

[COURIER ADVERTISERS.]

Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.

The Courier feels proud of its list of advertisers. No county newspaper in the state can boast a larger list or one made up of better, more honorable or more enterprising men. Here they are in alphabetical order.

WINFIELD BANK. This is one of the Winfield institutions, and being established eight years ago, is the oldest bank in the place. It has a large safe, with burglar-proof and combination, and time locks, with other appliances for safety. J. C. Fuller, the proprietor, is a man of large means, being a very extensive owner of real estate. He is very careful and prudent in his transactions and perfectly reliable in every respect. From a long and intimate acquaintance, we have learned to place implicit trust in his honor. Neal Fuller is his gentleman cashier and attends strictly to his business.

Winfield Courier, February 6, 1879.

The party at the new residence of Mr. J. C. Fuller was one of the most enjoyable parties of the season. About twenty-five or thirty couples were in attendance. The evening was spent in dancing and card playing, and partaking of the elegant refreshments prepared by their kind hostess. Mr. Fuller has one of the most convenient houses in Kansas. It is lighted with gas, heated by a furnace, and has water in all parts of the house. Their beautiful rooms will never be occupied by a more appreciative company than were assembled there on Friday evening.

[CITY TREASURER'S STATEMENT.]

Winfield Courier, April 3, 1879.

WINFIELD, KANS., March 24, 1879.

To Hon. J. B. Lynn, Mayor of the city of Winfield.

The undersigned would respectfully submit herewith his report of his receipts and disbursements as Treasurer of the City of Winfield up to the present date as shown by the enclosed itemized statement.

May 8, 1878. To cash rec'd. of J. C. Fuller, former Treasurer: $750.21

May 13, 1878. To License, J. Likowski: $300.00

Sept., 1878. To cash of T. R. Bryan: $144.80

Oct. 13, 1878. To cash, J. Reynolds for pest house: $60.00

Jan. 13, 1879. To cash, N. C. Coldwell, City Attorney: $95.80

Feb. 6, 1879. To cash, Co. Treasurer, sidewalk tax: $223.53

To cash from all other sources: $290.22

Total: $1,863.56

CONTRA. By cash paid on vouchers drawn by J. B. Lynn, Mayor, and J. P. Short, city clerk: $1,864.28, leaving a deficiency in the Treasury of $.72. J. C. McMULLEN, City Treasurer.

I hereby certify the above to be a true and correct copy of the city treasurer's report as filed in my office the 24th day of March, 1879. J. P. SHORT, City Clerk.

Consolidation: Citizens' Bank and Winfield Bank [McMullen & Fuller]...

Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1879

The Citizen Bank and Fullers Bank of Winfield have consolidated, which will make a heavy institution.

Winfield Courier, April 10, 1879.

Last Friday the Citizens' Bank and the Winfield Bank consolidated, under the head of the Winfield Bank, with a capital of $50,000. J. C. McMullen was elected president, B. F. Baldwin, vice-president, J. C. Fuller, cashier, and D. A. Millington, secretary. They will immediately begin the erection of a brick building, 25 x 140, on the lot now occupied by the Winfield Bank. The first floor will be occupied by the bank, the second story for offices, and the basement by the COURIER. This organization makes one of the strongest banking institutions in the country.

Winfield Courier, April 24, 1879.

THE COURT HOUSE. Under this head the Semi-Weekly dishes up a column and a half editorial to prove that the county ought at once to go to a large expense in building additions to, and in remodeling the courthouse.

It says that "whoever is responsible for building the courthouse where it is, with a swamp between it and the business portion of the town, demonstrates his unfitness to be entrusted with public interests, and has a small soul; that "Winfield has in days gone by been cursed by incapacity and cupidity;" that the courthouse, the schoolhouse, and the lost bridge "are the ear marks that indicate jobbery and rascality, "the indubitable evidences of "gigantic fraud" in those responsible for their construction.

About three months ago the editors of the Semi-Weekly came to this place utter strangers to the people of this city and county and found the city so prosperous and promising, the result of the labor and exertions of its earlier citizens, that they concluded to establish themselves here and reap a part of the harvest these earlier citizens had sown. Finding that in their gleanings they did not at first accumulate sheaves very rapidly, they concluded that the fault must be in the rascality and incapacity of those whose labor sowed the seed, and hence, we have this wholesale attack upon our best and most valued citizens.

The persons who projected and carried out the building of the courthouse and jail were W. H. H. Maris, then Mayor; S. C. Smith, R. B. Saffold, C. A. Bliss, H. S. Silver, J. D. Cochran, S. Darrah, then councilmen; J. M. Alexander, city attorney; Frank Cox, of Richland, John D. Maurer of Dexter, and O. C. Smith, of Cresswell, county commissioners.

Fifty-eight leading men of Winfield were most active in this matter and guaranteed the title to the courthouse ground and many prominent men of the county approved the measure.

The persons who projected and carried out the building of the schoolhouse were John B. Fairbank, District Clerk, J. D. Cochran, Director, S. H. Myton, Treasurer, and some others.

J. P. Short was the trustee and O. F. Boyle the treasurer by whom the contract to build the bridge was let, and during most of its construction, and H. S. Silver, E. S. Bedilion, and B. F. Baldwin were the township officers who made the final settlement with the contractors.

Here we have an array of names honored in this community, names of men never before charged with rascality and incapacity, men in whom we older settlers believe and trust and yet the sages of Mt. Pulaski in three short months have seen through all these men and found them guilty of incapacity, unfitness, jobbery, rascality, and gigantic fraud.

It may be that these gushing freshmen meant to attach these pet words to other than those mentioned above, to the members of the "Old Town Company, or rather Town Association," for instance. If that is the case, the records are open to inspection and we state distinctly that no member of the Winfield Town Association had any connection whatever with the building of the courthouse except to give a deed of the half block of land on which it stands to the county, and two lots on which the jail stands to the city, (all they ever agreed or were ever expected to give) in compliance with the bargain between the city council and county commissioners, that the county should build a courthouse and the city a jail in which the county should have a right to keep prisoners. One of them protested against the building of the courthouse.

One member of that Association, Fuller, was district treasurer when the contract for building the schoolhouse was let, but Myton succeeded him before the work commenced.

The original plan of the schoolhouse was made by John B. Fairbank, District Clerk, who requested Millington to help him in drafting and making specifications and estimates, which he did, but that plan was finally widely departed from in the construction, and therefore Millington is not entitled to a particle of the credit of that structure.

Millington only, of that Association, had anything to do with the letting of the contract and building of the bridge. He was temporarily the township clerk at that time and claims his share of the credit with his colleagues, Short and Boyle, and with other leading men of the town.

We challenge Mr. Conklin or anyone else to show that any member of the Town Association had any connection whatever with the building of either of these three structures except as above specified.

Now as relates to these three structures, built at that early day when there were no civil engineers or architects within reach and to procure such would cost such large sums, wh