A.
B. and J. P. JOHNSON.
[Johnson
Brothers: Started out as Cattlemen. Became prominent leaders in Arkansas City.
Engaged in banking with Col. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, etc. They also started the
Johnson Loan & Trust Company.]
I
do not know if the following applies to J. P. Johnson, one of the Johnson
Brothers or not...
FOR
SALE OR TRADE!
Arkansas
City Traveler, May 25, 1881.
160 acres of timber land (mostly white oak) in Douglas County, Mo. This land is first-class prairie timber, 2 miles from the county seat, and well watered. Will trade for Kansas land, stock, merchandise, sheep, or cattle. For particulars inquire three miles west of Arkansas City, of J. P. Johnson.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 25, 1881.
Mr. J. P. Johnson informs us that wheat all over West Bolton is prospering finely, much better than that in the southern part of Sumner County.
[Note: Traveler goofed! J. P. Johnson, along with his partner, Hosmer, came from Suncook, New Hampshire, and not Maine.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 28, 1881.
We had the pleasure of meeting Messrs. Hosmer and Johnson of Suncook, Maine [New Hampshire], who have been making a tour of Western Kansas, the Pan Handle, and Indian Territory in search of a good location for a stock range. These gentlemen express themselves as very much pleased with the country and prospects south of this city, and will probably make some investments shortly. Being prepared to buy largely, they of course need to look more closely to the range, etc., but we feel satisfied that they cannot miss it by investing anywhere in this vicinity.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 16, 1882.
Messrs. J. L. Hoseman [Hosmer] and J. P. Johnson, who came to this city from Maine [New Hampshire] last spring with the intention of engaging in the stock business, have just returned from Texas with 25,000 head of choice stock, which they are now holding on the Cimarron south of here.
Excerpts...
Caldwell Commercial, Thursday, March 8, 1883.
The third annual meeting of the Cherokee Strip Stockmen’s Association met in the Opera House on Tuesday, March 6, 1883, at 11 a.m., and was called to order by the president, Ben S. Miller, who made the following remarks.
It becomes my painful duty to call this Association to order again. Painful, because it will be a rehash of what we have done, the past year, some of which has come to light, and some of which may never show up. On looking to my right, I miss the face of one who, in life, was one of the best supporters the chair had, and whose council and suggestions were always so timely. I refer with sorrow to our friend and brother, A. H. Johnson, who was stricken down in the prime of life last summer, without a moment’s warning, by the Power that controls the elements. He has gone to a place where “scattering,” “gatherings,” and “round-ups” are no more. Whether to a range that is fenced or open, we know not; but we do know that if it is fenced, no Congress, Secretary of the Interior, or Indian Commission can tear it down at their pleasure.
On re-assembling at 2 p.m., the committee on credentials reported the following list of new members, which report was accepted.
D. R. Streeter, Northrup & Stephens, C. W. Blaine, F. M. Stewart, R. B. Clark, R. H. Campbell, W. J. Hodges, G. A. Thompson, S. A. Garth, W. H. Harrelston, W. M. Dunn, G. B. Mote, Crutchfield & Carpenter, Walworth, Walton & Rhodes, W. B. Lee, W. W. Wicks, J. A. Emmerson, John Myrtle, J. H. Hill, A. J. Snider, A. G. Evans, R. W. Phillips, E. W. Payne, Tomlin & Webb, H. W. Roberts, E. P. Fouts, W. W. Stephens, A. Mills, C. M. Scott, H. P. Standley, Lafe Merritt, J. N. Florer, D. W. Roberts, C. H. Dye, M. W. Brand, Drury Warren, W. P. Herring, S. T. Tuttle, E. W. Rannols, N. J. Thompson, W. H. Dunn, E. A. Hereford, J. Love, Johnsons & Hosmer, S. T. Mayor, D. A. Streeter, M. H. Snyder, S. P. Burress, C. C. Clark, J. C. Weathers, G. V. Collins, and H. H. Campbell.
Mr. Hodges asked leave to file paper for consideration of the convention at the proper time concerning Oil Company troubles. Paper was read and discussed.
Mr. Gore, representing the Company, supposed to be the Pennsylvania Oil Company, stated that it was not a part of said company, but was a private enterprise, and that they were willing to agree to anything reasonable concerning the ranges.
Mr. Hewins thought the paper should go to the committee on arbitration.
Excerpts...
Caldwell Commercial, Thursday, March 15, 1883.
THE CHEROKEE STRIP LIVE STOCK ASSOCIATION.
LAST DAY’S PROCEEDINGS.
Charter and By-Laws.
FOURTH DAY—MORNING SESSION.
The meeting was called to order by President Miller at 9 o’clock a.m.
The following are the names of members of the Association so far as we have been able to obtain them.
Blair, Battin & Cooper, E. W. Payne, for Comanche County Pool, T. F. Pryor & Co., S. T. Tuttle, S & Z Tuttle, R. B. Clark, W. H. Harrelston, H. Hodgson & Co., John Myrtle, McClellen Cattle Company, Johnsons & Hosmer, G. A. Thompson, C. M. Crocker, Robert Eatock, Wm. Corzine, M. J. Lane, Hammers Clark & Co., McGredy & Harlen, Walworth, Walton & Rhodes, D. P. Robinson & Northrup, Windsor Bros., H. A. Todd, Wicks, Corbin & Streeter, W. B. Helm, N. J. Thompson, Bates & Payne, E. W. Rannells, S. P. Burress, W. W. Wicks, Dean & Broderick, Shattuck Bros. & Co., H. H. Campbell, Briggs & Wilson, John Love & Son, J. C. Weathers & Sons, Ewell & Justis, A. M. Colson, W. S. & T. Snow, Dominion Cattle Company, Theo Horsley & Co., Southern Kansas Border Live Stock Company, J. W. Hamilton, manager, G. W. Miller (W. M. Vanhook in charge), B. H. Campbell, Drury Warren, L. Musgrove, A. A. Wiley, Tomlin & Webb, Geo. V. Collins, J. F. Conner & Co., Cobb & Hutton, A. J. & C. P. Day, Moore & Rohrer, Carnegie & Fraser, M. K. Krider, Texas Land and Cattle Company (limited), W. C. Quinlon, Ben Garland, Ballenger & Schlupp, A. T. & T. P. Wilson, A. Mills, H. W. Timberlake & Hall, Stewart & Hodges, Drumm & Snider, Williamson Blair & Co., Charles Collins, Ben S. Miller, Gregory, Eldred & Co., W. R. Terwilliger, M. H. Bennett, Barfoot & Santer, Hewins & Titus, Sylvester Flitch, D. A. Greever, Stoller & Rees, Crane & Larimer, Dickey Bros., McClain & Foss, E. M. Ford & Co., Dornblazer & Dole, J. C. Pryor & Co.
HONORARY MEMBERS: W. E. Campbell, L. C. Bidwell.
Caldwell Journal, May 17, 1883.
JOHNSONS & HOSMER. Range, Coldwater and Salt Fork, I. T.
P. O. Arkansas City, Ks.
Caldwell Journal, August 9, 1883.
Fat beeves have been going to market from this place, quite lively, during the past two weeks. The most noted shipments were 40 cars of fine beeves for Tony Day and 15 for Keefover & Foster, last Thursday, and on Sunday for the Dickey Bros., 30 cars; John Blair 15; Johnsons & Hosmer, 10; A. M. Colson 10, and 3 cars of horses for Blair & Batten, making in all 77 cars of stock. The shipments, so far are less than those of last year for the same period, but this can be accounted for from the fact that the through drive is less, and the greater portion of cattle brought from Texas has been driven on contract and not for sale in open market.
[DISTRICT COURT.]
Arkansas City Traveler, October 3, 1883.
CIVIL DOCKET. SIXTH DAY.
J. P. Johnson vs. H. H. Siverd.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1883.
Mr. J. P. Johnson intends to commence the erection of a residence building in our city shortly. Messrs. Beecher & Son we understand are figuring on the contract.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Maj. W. M. Sleeth sold his land adjoining the townsite on the east, containing 866 acres, last Saturday, to Messrs. J. P. and A. B. Johnson, for $12,000 spot cash.
May
[or Mary] Johnson...
Arkansas City Republican, April 12, 1884.
Rev. J. O. Campbell and Miss Grace Medbury, F. J. Hess and Miss May Johnson, J. C. Topliff and Miss Virginia Walton, and Mr. Houghton and Miss Ella Love spent several days in the Territory this week, visiting the different agencies.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
A jolly quartette of couples, composed of J. C. Topliff and Miss Walton, Rev. J. O. Campbell and Miss Medbury, F. J. Hess and Miss Johnson, and Mr. Houghton and Miss Love, took a pleasure trip to Ponca and Otoe agencies last week. They report the best of treatment and a most enjoyable time.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1884.
Mr. A. B. Johnson, of Suncook, New Hampshire, is in the city for a few weeks. Mr. Johnson has cattle interests in this vicinity, being one of the firm of Johnsons & Hosmer, but is more especially on a visit to his daughter, Miss May, who has been one of our society lights for the past year.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
Mr.
J. P. Johnson, of the Johnson & Hosmer cattle firm; A. B. Johnson, one of
the same firm, of Concord, New Hampshire, and Mr. J. P. Dodge, of the same
place, were in the city Monday, on their return from the Coldwater ranch. The
Eastern part of the party were well pleased with the country and favorably
impressed with the vim and push exhibited by our businessmen and the town in
general. They passed onto Arkansas City Tuesday morning, from which point they
will return to their homes this week. Caldwell Journal.
May
[or Mary] Johnson...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1884.
Miss May Johnson and Miss Virginia Walton left for an extended visit in the East last Saturday afternoon. There are two or three aching voids straying around Arkansas City now, but they have our sympathy. ’Tis all that we can do.
Arkansas City Republican, June 21, 1884.
Misses Virginia Walton and May Johnson, teachers in our public schools during last year, departed last Saturday for their homes in the East.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 9, 1884.
SCHOOL REPORT.
Annual Report of Arkansas City School District No. 2 for the Year Ending June 9, 1884.
Following is the report of the clerk of the school board for this district, for the year ending June 9, 1884.
Number of teachers employed, Nine, as follows.
C. T. Atkinson, Miss Anna Hunt, Mrs. Annie Wright, Miss Mary Theaker, Miss May A. Johnson, Miss Virginia Walton, Miss Albertine Maxwell.
Number of different persons attending school this year, 629.
Salary paid to male teacher, $700.
Total number of months taught by male teacher, 8 months and 3 weeks.
Total salary paid female teachers, $1,816.26.
Total number of months taught by female teachers, 51 months and three weeks.
Average salary of male teacher, $80 per month; average for female teacher, $35 per month.
Number weeks of school sustained by the district, 36.
Total levy for school purposes for year ending July 31, 1884. For building, 6 mills; incidental, 4 mills; teachers, 5 mills; total, 15 mills.
Estimated value of school property, including buildings and grounds, $1,800.
Number of school buildings, 8.
Number of school rooms, 7.
Number of school houses built in year ending July 30, 1884: Two temporary frame buildings and one $10,000 stone building in course of erection.
Cost of same: $1,120 for frames and $9,495 for stone.
Arkansas City Republican, July 19, 1884.
Messrs. Beecher Bros., have just completed the Johnson residence, opposite the Presbyterian Church. They deserve great credit for the manner they have carried out the plans and specifications, and their work shows them to be No. 1 in their line. The painting and graining was done by G. M. Keller, whose work stands preeminent in the city.
A.
B. Johnson given as W. D. Johnson’s partner. Wrong!
Arkansas City Republican, August 9, 1884.
AD. YOU CAN ALWAYS GET A SQUARE MEAL! On the Corner of Summit Street and 3rd Avenue, AT ALL HOURS. W. D. and A. B. JOHNSON.
Arkansas City Republican, August 23, 1884.
We were mistaken about W. D. & A. B. Johnson’s lunch stand. W. D. still continues in the business, taking as a partner Mr. J. E. Beck. These gentlemen are courteous and will do their best to satisfy the curiosity of the public. They expect to keep fresh oysters constantly on hand after Sept. 1st. When you are hungry, give them a call.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1884.
The Equal Suffrage society will meet at the residence of Mrs. J. P. Johnson on Wednesday, September 24, at 3:30 o’clock p.m.
May Johnson married to Frank J. Hess of Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
TO BE MARRIED. Frank J. Hess, in company with Mrs. J. L. Huey and son, Barrett, left Christmas day for Suncook, New Hampshire. Frank has realized that “to be alone is not good for a man.” So on the first day of the new year, he will be married to Miss May Johnson, who formerly resided here. After visiting Washington, D. C., and other eastern cities on their bridal tour, they will come to Arkansas City. This is the cause of the erection of Mr. Hess’ new residence, and which will be about completed by the time he arrives with his bride. Wishing you and your bride, Frank, all of the unalloyed bliss imaginable, is all the harm the REPUBLICAN extends.
Arkansas City Republican, January 3, 1885.
Frank
Hess, the real estate rustler of Arkansas City, has gone to New Hampshire to
conclude a matrimonial trade which has been on his hands for some time. The
ceremony takes place January 1 with Miss May Johnson as the bride. Winfield
Telegram.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 8, 1885.
We are in receipt of beautiful cards announcing the marriage of Frank J. Hess, the rustling young real estate man of Arkansas City, and Miss May Johnson, on January 1st, at Suncook, N. H.
According
to the next account, Mary (or May) A. Johnson, was the only child of Augustus
R. Johnson. Earlier accounts have him listed as A. B. Johnson. I have corrected
this item inasmuch as “B.” is the correct middle initial. MAW
Arkansas City Republican, January 10, 1885.
A BRILLIANT SOCIAL EVENT.
Wedding of Miss Mary A. Johnson and Mr. Frank J. Hess, Suncook, N. H.
SUNCOOK,
JAN. 2. A brilliant wedding occurred on Prospect Street in this place today,
the parties being Miss Mary A. Johnson, only child of Mr. Augustus B. Johnson,
a wealthy merchant of Suncook, and Mr. Frank J. Hess, of Arkansas City, Kansas.
Miss Johnson was graduated from the Tilton Seminary two years ago, and has
recently been a teacher in Kansas. Mr. Hess is a descendant of a German family
of Pennsylvania, and is a prominent real estate broker in his Western home. The
only invited guests were relatives and immediate friends to the number of about
50. All the apartments on the first floor of Mr. Johnson’s residence were
decorated with flowers and greenery. The ceremony took place at noon, Mr.
Johnson escorting the bride and Mrs. Johnson the groom into the parlor, Mr. C.
P. Morse of Suncook being master of ceremonies. The marriage service was
performed by Rev. Otis Cole, pastor of the Methodist Church in Suncook. The
bride looked charming, and was richly and tastefully attired, her dress being a
stone-colored silk, cut Basque, and with full drapery. After the happy couple
had received the hearty congratulations of the company, the guests were invited
into an adjoining apartment to view the lavish display of gifts. The presents
were numerous, many of them being of solid silver, and reaching several
thousand dollars in value; the donors nearly all attended. The parents of the
bride gave a beautiful silver service of nine pieces, also sets of dessert,
table, and tea spoons, and other choice offerings. J. P. Johnson and wife of
Arkansas City, gave a massive silver water service, including a tilting pitcher
and goblet; Miss Lillie Hess of Reading, Pennsylvania, napkin rings; Master
Barrett V. Huey of Arkansas City, articles of rattan work; Geo. Currier of
Heverville, Massachusetts, “The Raven,” illustrated by Dore; J. K. Hosmer, of
Suncook, a piece of Rogers’ statuary; and Miss Grace A. Potter of Suncook, a
fine bronze card receiver. Among others who gave choice gifts were Roscoe E.
Collins of the Franklin Journal; H. M. Bosworth and wife, of Andover;
Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Dearborne and Mrs. D. G. Mowe, of Hill; Phillip F. Gordon
and wife of Plymouth; Mrs. J. A. Hutchison of Franklin; Miss Lillian Chase of
Plymouth; Geo. and Sadie Dearborn of Hill; Miss Mary Putney of East Andover;
Mrs. Ella Rublee of Boston; Mrs. Clara Currier of Haverhill, Massachusetts;
Geo. D. and F. H. Mowe of Concord; and J. C. Chickering, C. P. Morse and wife,
Miss Sadie Morse, Miss Mamie Paine, Eleazar Baker and wife, P. S. Hainville and
wife, Metta C. Davis, Miss Lizzie Paine, A. S. Heath, Belle Fifield, J. S.
Robinson and wife, Miss Florence Desilets, and Mrs. H. Livingston of Suncook.
At a later hour a wedding dinner was served, Isaac N. Andrews of Boston being
the caterer. Mr. and Mrs. Hess took the evening train for Washington, D. C.,
and other points in the south, not expecting to arrive in Arkansas City until
nearly the middle of February. Boston Journal.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
MARRIED. The wedding cards of Frank J. Hess and Mary A. Johnson arrived Monday. The ceremony took place January 1st at the residence of the bride’s parents at Suncook, New Hampshire. They will be “At Home” February 12.
Arkansas City Republican, January 10, 1885.
The Equal Suffrage Society will meet at the residence of Mrs. J. P. Johnson next Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 3:30 p.m. A full attendance is requested.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 28, 1885.
Mr.
Johnson, of the cow firm of Johnson & Hosmer, came over from Arkansas City
Monday and went down to the ranch on Coldwater to look after the pilgrim and
native yearlings. Caldwell Journal.
Arkansas City Republican, January 31, 1885.
Frank Hess and bride arrived home Monday afternoon and have taken rooms at the residence of J. P. Johnson. The REPUBLICAN is glad to extend the hand of welcome to this new couple, and Miss Johnson’s extensive coterie of acquaintances will warmly welcome her as Mrs. Hess.
Arkansas City Republican, February 28, 1885.
Our Roll of Honor.
The following is a list of our subscribers taken since Feb. 20.
Mrs. A. B. Johnson, Hill, New Hampshire.
J. P. Johnson, City.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
Miss Nellie E. Thompson, the new music teacher, whose card will be found on this page, is now staying at the residence of Mrs. J. P. Johnson. She has rented music rooms in the Commercial Block, which she will occupy as soon as her piano arrives. The graceful and accomplished lady is welcomed to our midst and recommended to our patrons.
CARD. Miss Nellie E. Thompson. Teacher of music, painting, and embroidery. Orders filled for china painting, hand painted dresses, bonnet crowns, and fancy work. Sheet music supplied. Call at Mrs. J. P. Johnson’s.
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
Nellie E. Thompson, teacher of music, painting, and embroidery. Orders filled for china painting, hand-painted dresses, bonnet crowns, and fancy work. Sheet music supplied. Call at Mrs. J. P. Johnson’s.
LAND
SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 2, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers for the past week, as taken from the official records, and furnished the COURIER by the real estate firm of Harris & Clark.
B. C. Sweeny and T. Sweeny to J. P. Johnson, lot 7, block 79, Arkansas City. $450.00
Arkansas City Republican, Wednesday, April 4, 1885.
“HOT TIMES.”
The Squirt-Gun Ordinance the Cause.
Thursday the businessmen and taxpayers held a meeting to place in nomination a ticket for the city officers to be filled next Tuesday. The following was the result.
FOR MAYOR: A. J. PYBURN.
FOR POLICE JUDGE: CHARLES BRYANT.
FOR CITY TREASURER: CHARLES R. SIPES.
FOR TREASURER OF SCHOOL BOARD: JAMES L. HUEY.
FOR JUSTICE OF THE PEACE: S. C. LINDSAY.
FOR CONSTABLES: FRANK THOMPSON, J. J. BREENE.
FIRST WARD:
Councilmen: Jacob Hight; A. C. Gould.
School Board: S. B. Adams; T. D. Richardson.
SECOND WARD:
Councilmen: Archie Dunn; Calvin Dean.
School Board: J. P. Witt; John Landes.
THIRD WARD:
Councilmen: J. P. Johnson; M. C. Copple.
School Board: A. D. Prescott; L. E. Woodin.
FOURTH WARD:
Councilmen: John M. Ware; W. P. Wolf.
School Board: A. P. Hutchinson; T. R. Houghton.
Arkansas City Republican, April 4, 1885.
A. B. Johnson, father of Mrs. Frank J. Hess, arrived in the city Wednesday from Suncook, New Hampshire, on a visit.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 11, 1885.
Thursday morning the Johnson Loan and Trust Company was formed. The company starts off with a cash capital of $100,000. The incorporators are: A. B. Johnson, J. P. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, H. P. Farrar, Maj. W. M. Sleeth, Calvin Dean, J. L. Huey, and C. A. Howard. The company is formed for the purpose of making loans on real estate and to negotiate loans in the New England states. Several of the incorporators reside in that section. The company’s office will be in the vacant room in the rear portion of the Cowley County Bank building. They will be ready for business about May 1, 1885.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 18, 1885.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Company have received their charter and Tuesday night the organization was perfected. H. P. Farrar was chosen president; J. L. Huey Vice-president; A. D. Prescott secretary; J. P. Johnson treasurer; and A. B. Johnson general manager. The company will be ready for business May 1st.
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
The Democrat, in giving the names of the incorporators of the Johnson Loan and Trust Company, omitted the name of Calvin Dean. Correct next week, Charlie.
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
A. B. Johnson, J. L. Huey, and H. P. Farrar, of the Johnson Loan and Trust Company went to St. Louis Wednesday to buy office fixtures for the company. They will be gone several days.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 13, 1885.
H. P. FARRAR, President
J. L. HUEY, Vice President
A. D. PRESCOTT, Secretary
J. P. JOHNSON, Treasurer
A. B. JOHNSON, General Manager
JOHNSON LOAN AND TRUST COMPANY
Arkansas City, Kansas
Capital, $100,000.
Money to loan on improved farms at lowest rates.
Call and see us in the Cowley County Bank Building.
Arkansas City Republican, June 13, 1885.
It being an assured fact that the K. C. & S. W. Railroad is coming, the question of the location of the depot and other railroad buildings is the subject of discussion among many of our citizens. Some of them are of the opinion that the depot will be in the northwest part of town, while others think it will be located on the farm owned by A. B. and J. P. Johnson in the east part of town.
Nellie Johnson...
Arkansas City Republican, June 20, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Huey, Fred Farrar, Rev. Fleming and wife, Rev. Walker and wife, Misses Nellie Johnson and Hattie Corey, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hess attended the festival at the Parker Schoolhouse Wednesday evening. They were well entertained.
First National Bank of Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 11, 1885.
The following are the directors of the First National Bank of Arkansas City: A. B. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, J. P. Johnson, F. W. Farrar, Wm. Sleeth, and H. P. Farrar.
Arkansas City Republican, August 1, 1885.
This week the Johnson Loan and Trust Company change their ad. Read it and then call at the office and interview the affable A. D. Prescott. This company gives superior inducements to money borrowers.
H. P. Farrar, Pres.
J. L. Huey, Vice-Pres.
A. D. Prescott, Sec.
J. P. Johnson, Treas.
A. B. Johnson, Gen. Manager.
JOHNSON LOAN AND TRUST COMPANY
Arkansas City, Kansas.
Capital, $100,000.
Money to Loan on improved farms at the lowest rates.
We Loan our own Money. No delay.
Money furnished as soon as property and title are found satisfactory.
All business pertaining to making or paying off a Loan transacted at our office in the First National Bank Building.
Arkansas City Republican, August 15, 1885.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Company have purchased one of the four lots belonging to Albert Worthley just west of the First National Bank, and will erect a two story brick front business house. A portion of the building will be occupied by the Johnson Loan and Trust Company with their office. The building which will be erected by the company will be equal to any in the city. The consideration was $1,000 and the sale was made with the understanding that the association would put up a first-class building.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 19, 1885.
W. M. SLEETH, President. ESTABLISHED 1872. H. P. Farrar, Cashier.
FIRST NATIONAL BANK, -OF ARKANSAS CITY-
(SUCCESSOR TO COWLEY COUNTY BANK.)
YOUR BUSINESS SOLICITED.
DIRECTORS: A. B. JOHNSON, FRED W. FARRAR, A. D. PRESCOTT,
J. P. JOHNSON, W. M. SLEETH, H. P. FARRAR.
LAND
SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
Albert Worthley et ux to Johnson Loan and Trust Company, pt lots 15, 16, 19 and 18 blk 80, AC: $1,000
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 22, 1885.
The Water Works.
A good representation was had of the businessmen at the water works meeting in Highland Opera House last Friday evening. Mayor Schiffbauer called the meeting to order at 8 p.m., and J. L. Huey was chosen chairman and N. T. Snyder, secretary. Mayor Schiffbauer stated that the meeting had been called to discuss the water works question; that Messrs. Plate and Quigley were here from St. Louis with a proposition which they wished to submit to the citizens of Arkansas City for putting in gas and water works. The proposition was to the effect that they put them in for the franchise, the city agreeing to take 60 fire plugs, at a rental of $50 a year and also take 30 street lights at $30 each per annum. Speeches were made on the subject by Maj. Sleeth, J. G. Danks, A. D. Prescott, J. P. Johnson, O. P. Houghton, Maj. Searing, Mayor Schiffbauer, and others. The gist of their remarks was that we needed and must have water works; but at present we were unable to put in gas works.
Messrs. Quigley and Plate did not want one without the other on this proposition so the matter was ended in regard to it. These gentlemen desire to put in a bid when we have water works put in. They propose what we think is a good system, and by their talk they showed that they were perfectly conversant with the water works question. They propose the stand-pipe system and explained it in detail to those present.
During the meeting a motion was made and carried that a committee be appointed from the citizens meeting and city council to investigate the different systems of water works of our neighboring cities and report which they thought was the best. J. G. Danks and Maj. Sleeth were selected to represent the citizens, and Monday night Councilmen Dean, Dunn, Thompson, and Mayor Schiffbauer were taken from the city council. On motion the meeting was adjourned to await the report of the committee.
The time has come for some action to be taken. The citizens of Arkansas City have expressed their desire for water works. The start has been made to get them. Let the ball be pushed forward rapidly. Protection from fire for our town we must have and right now is the accepted time to get it.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 29, 1885.
Our New Business Blocks.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Co., Maj. Sleeth, and H. P. Farrar will put up two business blocks next spring.
WATER WORKS.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 2, 1885.
SHALL WE HAVE WATER WORKS?
Meeting of Citizens To Determine the Question.
An Indifferent Crowd Who Have No Will To Express.
The citizens’ meeting on Friday to provide water works for the city, called by the committee appointed at a previous meeting, was slightly attended. At 8 o’clock, the hour designated, less than a score of persons were in the hall. Half an hour after about sixty had assembled, and the meeting was called to order by the appointment of J. P. Johnson for chairman and Frederic Lockley secretary.
The committee was called upon for the reading of its report. In the absence of Major Sleeth, chairman of the committee, Mayor Schiffbauer explained that at the former meeting of citizens, Messrs. Sleeth, Searing, and J. G. Danks had been appointed a committee on behalf of the citizens, to act with three members of the city council to be chosen at the next meeting of that body. He had appointed Messrs. Thompson, Dean, and Dunn, and the committee had added himself to the number. It was contemplated that visits should be paid to neighboring cities to inquire into their systems of water works; but as this would involve expense, and the methods in use supplying water in Winfield, Wichita, Wellington, and Newton were pretty well known to the committee, they had contented themselves with formulating a plan adapted to the needs of our city which they had embodied in a report. The reading of the same being called for, the mayor read as follows.
REPORT OF THE WATER WORKS COMMITTEE.
To
the citizens of Arkansas City.
GENTLEMEN: We, the committee to whom was referred the matter of water works, would respectfully submit the following report.
1st. In our judgment the supply should be obtained at the springs now used by the city for water supply; provided, that after being subjected to a thorough test, the supply shall be found adequate to meet all demands, and the quality to be pure and wholesome, and provided further, that the company securing the franchise will guarantee to exclude all surface matter from said springs.
2nd. That in case the supply at the springs shall be found to be inadequate, or that the surface matter cannot be excluded, then in our opinion, the supply should be obtained from a filter basin near the Arkansas River.
3rd. The system should be standpipe and holly combined; that is to say, the works to be so arranged that the standpipe can be shut off from the main and give direct pressure from the pumps into the mains.
4th. The standpipe is to be of iron, to be 25 feet in diameter, and sixty feet high, placed on a tower 50 feet high, built of stone laid in cement.
5th. There shall be two pumps, each capable of pumping one million gallons every 24 hours, so arranged as to be run either separately or together; and two boilers arranged the same as pumps, and each capable to run the pumps at full capacity with easy firing.
6th. In our opinion there will be required 5,630 feet of 12 inch main, running from the works, if situated where the present works stand, through Third Avenue east to Fourth Street, and from Third Avenue north through Summit Street to Ninth Avenue; 8,310 feet of 8 inch main to be placed in Sixth and Eighth Streets, running from Third Avenue north To Seventh Avenue and through Ninth Avenue, running from Fourth Street west to Tenth Street; 12,470 feet of 4 inch pipe to be placed in Fourth, Fifth, Ninth, and Tenth Streets, and running from Third Avenue north to Ninth Avenue, and from Tenth Street west to Eleventh Street, thence south to Eighth Avenue, thence east to Tenth Street.
7th. That in order to give proper fire protection for the territory covered by this plant, it will require 59 fire plugs to be placed along this system, which plugs we have located as per map, which can be seen at the city office. We therefore recommend that the city take 60 hydrants, and in lieu of the additional hydrant, the city cause to be contracted a watering and drinking fountain for the use and benefit of the public, which should be open and free at all times. Said fountain to be placed on Fifth Avenue, near Summit Street.
8th. We would further recommend that the city solicit bids for the construction of such a system of works, taking the number of hydrants as a basis, and that the successful bidder be required to furnish bonds to the city in the penal sum of $20,000 for the faithful performance of the contract, and guaranteeing that the work, when completed, shall be capable of throwing water from 5 hydrants at the same time from standpipe pressure alone a distance of 65 feet high; and by direct pressure from pumps, 100 feet high.
Your committee desire to state that as the city council made no appropriation to defray expenses, they have not made any effort to visit other works, and from the most reliable information we have been able to gather, we are of the opinion that the standpipe and holly system is the only feasible system for our city to adopt, and in the system we have herein suggested both these are combined.
W. M. SLEETH, CHAS. H. SEARING, J. G. DANKS, C. G. THOMPSON, F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, CALVIN DEAN, ARCHIE DUNN.
The chair inquired what should be done with the report. A pause ensued. The secretary moved that the report be accepted, but he found no second to his motion. To remove the chilling apathy, Mr. Lockley explained that his motion was necessary to bring the report before the meeting for discussion, but it did not involve its adoption. The disposal of the report would be effected by a subsequent motion. This brought out a weak-voiced second to the motion. On the motion being put by the chair, not a voice was raised in support or disapproval.
Judge Kreamer in reproof of this deathlike apathy said he thought the meeting should take interest enough in the proceedings to express its will on the question before it. The committee had devoted time and labor to perform the duty assigned it, and now that its report was submitted, it was the business of those present to accept or reject, not to let the matter go by default.
The motion of the secretary being again put to the meeting, it was adopted by an emphatic vote.
Mayor Schiffbauer went over the report and explained its provisions in a detailed commentary.
Jacob Hight said he would like to know something about this funeral; it was inexplicable to him because he saw no corpse. He had listened to the report of the committee with interest; they had reduced the question of a water supply for the city to tangible shape, and he for one thanked them for their intelligent labors. A good and efficient system of water works was not only of interest at the present time, but it affected the welfare and happiness of our children and our children’s children. The proposition set forth in the report appeared to him reasonable and adapted to our wants, but he hoped to hear it discussed with becoming spirit. No city could prosper and present a good bill of health that was not provided with an adequate system of pure water. He was aware the city was not able to put in its own water works, and hence it must contract with other parties to supply the machinery. It was agreed by all that our want was a pressing one, and now was the time to do something definite and decisive toward the accomplishment of that end. The committee was to be commended for spending no money at the expense of the city treasury in running about the country.
A. D. Prescott was much gratified with the report; he agreed with the last speaker that it entitled the committee to the thanks of the people in whose interest they had labored. The question of expense was first to be considered, and he desired to know whether the outlay involved in the plan proposed could not be cut down. Any company that undertakes to build water works for a city, does so with a view to the profit to be made; and their charge would be based on the sum of money expended. He thought provision was made for an unnecessary length of 12-inch pipe. The size of the standpipe might also be reduced. He would like to hear some estimate of the probable cost of the system sketched in the committee’s report.
J. G. Danks said the main that was proposed to be laid might be larger than the present wants of the city; but the committee thought it best to lay pipes big enough to answer future needs and save the expense of tearing them up five or ten years from now to substitute others of larger capacity. An efficient water supply in case of fire must be provided at all cost. An 8-inch main might answer all purposes for the next five or six years, but if the city attains the growth we expect, at the end of that time it will be inadequate. Iron pipe laid down here would cost from $35 to $40 a ton. The cost of the tower, the standpipe, the engine, and pumps could only be learned from the bids to be sent in. He thought the total expense of the system proposed in the committee’s report would be about $50,000. Sixty hydrants were proposed, and for this reason, the rent of 40 hydrants would aggregate as much as the rent of the larger number. The first contract also sets the standard of rents; and if more hydrants should be required at any future time, the rent will be the same as of those already in use. And he believed the city could not be properly protected from fire with a smaller number.
Judge Kreamer moved as the sense of the meeting that the committee be authorized to advertise for bids, and report the result at a future meeting, which was adopted. Adjourned.
Arkansas City Republican, September 5, 1885.
A. B. Johnson, of the Johnson Loan & Trust Company, who has been back in the New England states for several weeks on business connected with the company, came back to Arkansas City the first of the week. He will remain here for a short time.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 16, 1885.
WATER WORKS QUESTION.
The Citizens Reject Mr. Quigley’s Second Proposition.
The meeting of citizens held in Highland Hall on Thursday evening was called by the water works committee to learn their views on the proposition submitted by Mr. J. B. Quigley, of St. Louis. This gentleman was here some months ago with his partner, Mr. Platter, and then the pair submitted a proposition to build gas and water works for the city, owning the franchise, and charging $4,000 for the public use of the water and gas. That is, they agreed to furnish a water system, which was generally approved by those competent to form an opinion, on condition that the city pay $50 a year rental for 60 fire hydrants, making an annual tax of $3,000. They also offered to build gas works, and furnish consumers with an excellent quality of illuminating gas for $2.50 a thousand feet, the city being required to pay for 30 street lamps, at the rate of $30 a year each. This would be an additional charge of $900. They refused, for good reasons given at the time, and repeated by Mr. Quigley at the meeting on Thursday evening, to accept one franchise without the other.
The matter was debated with due deliberation at the former meeting, and the conclusion arrived at was that the city was not then ready to bear the burden of lighting the streets, and before the offer to build water works was adopted, they preferred to invite bids from other responsible parties. A committee was appointed to formulate a plan for the water supply, and advertise in the proper channels for proposals to construct the same.
The work assigned the committee was being intelligently and diligently performed, when Mr. Quigley, who happened to be in Hutchinson, and hearing that our citizens were still laboring on a water works system, inquired of Mayor Schiffbauer by telegram whether a modified proposition would be received. The latter expressed his doubt, in a reply, but invited the gentleman to come and make his offer. He arrived here on the Wednesday train, and that evening laid his proposition before that body. It may be briefly given as follows.
An iron standpipe, ten feet in diameter and 110 feet high. Two compound duplex pumps, each capable of raising 1,000,000 gallons of water in 24 hours. Two boilers capable of running the machinery with easy firing. The main to consist of 5,800 feet of 10-inch pipe, 3,200 feet of 8-inch, 6,200 feet of 6-inch, and 7,400 feet of 4-inch pipe. The machinery is guaranteed to throw water from five plugs 65 feet high by standpipe pressure alone, and 100 feet from pump power. Mr. Quigley asks 30 days to file a bond for $20,000 for the satisfactory fulfillment of his contract. The city will be required to take 65 fire plugs and a rental of $50 a plug per annum. All the mains to be standard condition, and to be extended 600 feet for every six consumers.
The committee was favorably impressed with the offer, but feeling that their instructions did not warrant them to act without authority, they thought it proper to call another public meeting and take the sense of the people. The meeting was held on Thursday evening, about 150 persons being in attendance.
All of the committee was there, except Major Sleeth, and several of the members set forth their reasons for recommending the acceptance of Mr. Quigley’s offer. They may be summarized as follows. The plan originally proposed, the details of which were in print for mailing to pump makers and contractors, involved too great an outlay, and would impose too heavy cost on the city. The standpipe of the dimensions given above, and the water mains graduated from ten to four inches, would suffice for a city of 30,000 to 40,000 inhabitants, and would certainly answer our wants for many years to come. It would be well to accept the offer now because there was the prospect of a dull winter before us; the erection of the machinery and the laying of the pipes would afford employment to scores of our workmen, and the evidence of progress and enterprise, made manifest by such a work, would give our city a good name abroad and be apt to attract capital and population hither. While to decline this offer and advertise for this would cause a delay of two months, the winter is a bad time to prosecute such an undertaking, and it was most likely that nothing would be done in the way of procuring a water supply till next year.
These statements were met by arguments from Messrs. Meigs, T. H. McLaughlin, Prescott, Cunningham, and others, that as the city had waited so long, the further delay of a few weeks would not be detrimental. Mr. Quigley had made his offer, but there might be others who were willing to do the work for less. It would be in conformity with business rules to put it up to competition and take the lowest bidder. Mr. Quigley’s present one was nearly $1,000 a year better than the offer he made before; under the spur of a little wholesome competition, he might find it to his interest to make a still better offer, and the delay involved would be fully justified by the possible advantage to be gained.
The above is the substance of the reasoning used on both sides, until to bring the matter to an issue. Mr. J. P. Johnson moved that the committee be held to their former instructions to advertise for bids, which was amended by G. W. Cunningham restraining that body from opening any bids before October 12th. Both amendment and the original motion were negatived by the meeting. Judge Kreamer then moved that Mr. Quigley’s offer be accepted, which was submitted to a rising vote. The chair and the secretary (James L. Huey and N. T. Snyder) counted noses and pronounced the vote a tie. It was then proposed that the vote be taken by ballot, but on Mr. Dean’s suggestion that so indeterminate an expression of public sentiment would have no weight with him as a councilman, but he should be left to the exercise of his own judgment, a motion to adjourn was entertained and the meeting broke up leaving the committee to act as they thought best in the matter. As their instructions were not modified by the citizens they called together to consult with, we cannot see that they can act in any other way than to go on and advertise for bids.
Arkansas City Republican, September 19, 1885.
The job department of the REPUBLICAN turned out a neat pamphlet of 24 pages for the Johnson Loan and Trust Company this week.
Arkansas City Republican, October 10, 1885.
The Johnson Loan & Trust Company will erect a large three-story business house on their lot, just west of the National Bank, in the spring. Hurrah for the metropolis of Cowley County.
Arkansas City Republican, October 17, 1885.
Wm. F. Thayer, President of the First National Bank, of Concord, New Hampshire, was in the city the first of the week. Mr. Thayer is connected with the Johnson Loan & Trust company. He was highly pleased with Arkansas City and predicted that she would soon be a city of magnitude. The surrounding county of Arkansas City alone, he said, would make it. He returned to the east Wednesday, taking samples of corn from this region to show the New Englanders what kind of a crop we raise.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.
ALMOST ONE MILLION
Dollars Worth of Improvements Made to Arkansas City This Building Season.
The following is a partial list of the improvements made in Arkansas City since March 1, 1885.
Johnson Loan & Trust Company block, under contract: $34,000
Addition to National Bank, under contract: $45,000
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.
A Citizens Committee.
Last Monday evening several of our leading citizens met in the office of Judge Pyburn, for the purpose of organizing a citizens committee, its object to be to protect and promote the interest of Arkansas City, in any way that would tend to help and sustain the rapid growth of the Border City. A. J. Pyburn was called to the chair, and M. N. Sinnott was elected secretary. A temporary organization was made and an adjournment was taken until Tuesday evening at the same place, when a permanent organization was made by electing A. J. Pyburn, president; H. D. Kellogg, vice president; M. N. Sinnott, secretary; N. T. Snyder, assistant secretary; W. D. Mowry, treasurer. A finance committee was also appointed consisting of the following: A. A. Newman, H. O. Meigs, and W. D. Kreamer. Also an executive committee as follows: G. W. Cunningham, Wm. Sleeth, Amos Walton, H. D. Kellogg, N. T. Snyder, T. H. McLaughlin, W. D. Mowry, A. D. Prescott, and F. P. Schiffbauer. Committee made an assessment of $5.00 on all members and it was also decided that any citizen of good standing could become a member by paying the same fee.
The following are the charter members.
Names selected by the committee: Chas. Sipes, Geo. Howard, Geo. Cunningham, Wm. Mowry, Rev. Fleming, F. P. Schiffbauer, A. J. Pyburn, H. O. Meigs, Jas. L. Huey, Wm. Sleeth, W. D. Kreamer, A. A. Newman, A. D. Prescott, Jacob Hight, T. H. McLaughlin, O. S. Rarick, Jamison Vawter, J. P. Johnson, H. D. Kellogg, Ed. Grady, O. P. Houghton, M. N. Sinnott, Geo. W. Miller, N. T. Snyder, Amos Walton, Jas. Ridenour.
Arkansas City Republican, November 7, 1885.
An institution which has been beneficial to citizens of this community since its organization is the Johnson Loan and Trust company. Since the very first this company has done an immense business in the loaning of money, and by the manner in which it has conducted its business, it has increased it more than ten fold in the six months of its organization. The gentlemen composing the company are honorable and trustworthy, and will willingly accommodate you with a loan.
Arkansas City Republican, November 21, 1885.
This week the REPUBLICAN job office turned out another 1,000 pamphlets for the Johnson Loan & Trust Co. The gentlemen composing this company believe in the judicious use of printer’s ink.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 7, 1885.
There will be a meeting in the office of the Johnson Loan and Trust Company on Friday evening for the purpose of organizing a driving park and agricultural association.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 7, 1885.
BUILDING ACTIVITY.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Co., have postponed the erection of their two-story office till after the winter is past.
The large extension to the Arkansas City Bank has been completed recently, but the carpet and furniture for the private rooms are not yet in place.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 14, 1885.
The meeting called in the office of the Johnson Loan and Trust Co., on Friday evening, to organize a driving park and agricultural association, was sparsely attended. It was thought that sufficient publication of the meeting had not been made, and a consideration of the matter was postponed to a future time.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 14, 1885.
We present the statement of the First National Bank of this city, which is eminently satisfactory as showing a sound financial standing. Loans and discounts constitute the largest items in the enumeration of resources, as they are also the source of the most liberal profit, and this branch of the business being conducted with the most scrupulous care and ample security obtained, no risk affecting the safety of the bank is incurred. A bank failure is a public disaster, and it is a cause of general satisfaction that this institution is in the hands of discreet and experienced men, and that its business is so healthy and profitable.
STATEMENT -OF THE- FIRST NATIONAL BANK.
REPORT OF THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK AT ARKANSAS CITY, IN THE STATE OF KANSAS, AT THE CLOSE OF BUSINESS, OCTOBER 1ST, 1885.
RESOURCES.
Loans and discounts: $168,452.72
Overdrafts: $867.80
U. S. Bonds to secure circulation: $12,500.00
Due from approved reserve agents: $30,937.57
Due from other National Banks: $7,773.16
Due from state banks & bankers: $9,982.98
Current expenses and taxes paid: $1,033.75
Premiums paid: $2,734.37
Checks and other cash items: $8,092.61
Bills of other banks: $10,364.00
Fractional paper currency, nickels and pennies: $113.90
Special: $7,964.25
Legal tender notes: $6,000.00
Redemption fund with U. S. Treasurer (5 percent of circulation): $562.50
Due from treasurer, other than 5 percent redemption fund: $194.03
TOTAL RESOURCES: $267,473.64
LIABILITIES.
Capital stock paid in: $50,000.00
Undivided profits: $5,047.55
National bank notes outstanding: $11,250.00
Individual deposits subject to check: $120,443.31
Time certificates of deposit: $69,687l.45
Cashier’s checks outstanding: $261.00
Due to other National Banks: $319.92
Due to state banks and bankers: $1,469.41
TOTAL LIABILITIES: $267,473.64
STATE OF KANSAS, Cowley County. ss.
I, H. P. Farrar, cashier of the above named bank, do solemnly swear that the above statement is true to the best of my knowledge and belief. H. P. FARRAR, Cashier.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 6th day of October, 1885.
FRANK C. DEERING, Notary Public.
CORRECT—Attest: A. D. PRESCOTT, A. B. JOHNSON, F. W. FARRAR, Directors.
[NOTE: I PROBABLY GOT SOME OF THE FIGURES WRONG...HARD TO READ!]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 4, 1885.
CITIZENS’ COMMITTEE.
A Popular Movement to Advance the City’s Interests.
On Monday evening of last week, about a score of our prominent citizens held a meeting in Judge Pyburn’s office to consider the most practicable means of advancing the interests of this city. The views expressed were that in a rapidly growing country, where incoming population is apt to seek new channels, and business interests are created by the changing tide of affairs, it is necessary for every city that seeks growth and prosperity to be on the alert and lend its hand in shaping matters to its own advantage. It was agreed that to put the forces of a community to the best avail, it is necessary to have some organization to depute some number of men of good judgment and business acumen to watch the changes in the kaleidoscope of social life, and suggest means for turning them to proper advantage; to perform the duty of a picket guard in the army. In fact, holding themselves in an advanced position, and watching every movement that comes under their notice. As an initial step to the organization sought after, the meeting chose of the persons present, Messrs. A. A. Newman, A. D. Prescott, G. W. Miller, N. T. Snyder, and Amos Walton as an executive committee, with power to add to their number, and report to a public meeting to be held in the Opera house the following evening.
On Tuesday the Buckskin Border Band stationed outside that popular place of amusement, gave notice to the public that business was to be done by playing several choice airs in their usual artistic style. Several score of people gave heed to the summons, and by 8 o’clock there were about a hundred assembled. The meeting was called to order, Mayor Schiffbauer was chosen chairman, and our new postmaster, M. N. Sinnott, appointed secretary. Amos Walton, on behalf of the originators of the movement, was called on to explain the object of the meeting. He told what had been done the evening before, and handed to the secretary a list of names selected by the committee to add to their number, and said he would then ask the sense of the meeting on the choice made. The secretary read the following names.
C. R. Sipes; G. W. Cunningham; Rev. S. B. Fleming; A. J. Pyburn; H. O. Meigs; W. M. Sleeth; Jacob Hight; O. S. Rarick; J. P. Johnson; Ed Grady; Geo. Howard; D. Mowry; F. P. Schiffbauer; James Ridenour; Jas. L. Huey; W. D. Kreamer; T. H. McLaughlin; Dr. Jamison Vawter; Dr. H. D. Kellogg; O. P. Houghton; M. N. Sinnott.
Mr. Walton said he commended the object of the proposed organization because it gave our citizens the benefit of the counsel and services of two dozen of our most experienced citizens (He wished to exclude himself from self commendation.) who would be on the lookout for opportunities to turn to the public good. The plan as he sketched it was for those two dozen sagacious men to mature among themselves whatever movements would advance the public good, and then call a public meeting to whom their plans could be unfolded and action taken on them. On motion the list of names read by the secretary was approved.
Several other speakers followed in like strain.
Frank Austin preferred to have the organization placed on a broader basis. It had been called a board of trade by some speakers, and he wanted it made one in fact. He wanted membership thrown open to all eligible persons, and stated times of meeting. To create a fund for any sudden use he would have an initiation fee and an annual subscription.
But this proposition was generally opposed on the ground that it was taking the organization out of the hands of those who framed it. The meeting having nothing further before it, adjourned.
At a subsequent meeting of the executive committee, on the 29th, an organization was effected by electing A. J. Pyburn, president; H. D. Kellogg, vice president; M. N. Sinnott, secretary; N. T. Snyder, assistant secretary; W. D. Mowry, treasurer. It was also decided to increase the membership by admitting any fitting person on payment of $5 initiation fee. The following committees were appointed.
Finance Committee: A. A. Newman, H. O. Meigs, W. D. Kreamer.
Executive Committee: G. W. Cunningham, W. M. Sleeth, Amos Walton, H. D. Kellogg, N. T. Snyder, T. H. McLaughlin, W. D. Mowry, A. D. Prescott, F. P. Schiffbauer.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 19, 1885.
Prof. Ned Parker has been in town this week. He gave entertainments at the opera house Wednesday and Thursday evening. He advertised to loan money for 99 years without interest. This feature caught the eye of Frank Hess, A. B. Johnson, Fred Farrar, and George Howard. Instead of borrowing money of Prof. Ned, each of the above individuals loaned him $1.20 for 99 years and in return the professor donated a small box of the celebrated brass pen which he is selling.
Arkansas City Republican, December 19, 1885.
Fredonia Chronicle: A. B. Johnson, of Arkansas City, Kansas, general manager of the Johnson Loan and Trust Co., was in the city on Monday on business pertaining to the company.
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
The Johnson Loan & Trust company have purchased a typewriter.
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
A. B. Johnson has been up to Marion this week in the interest of the Johnson Loan & Trust company.
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
Bennett Chapter No. 41 elected the following officers last Wednesday night. J. Ridenour, H. P.; O. P. Houghton, K.; L. McLaughlin, S.; J. L. Huey, Treasurer; C. Hutchins, Secretary; W. D. Mowry, C. of H.; J. Benedict, P. S.; George Russel, R. A. C.; J. C. Pickering, 3rd Vail; J. P. Johnson, 2nd Vail; J. T. Shepard, 1st Vail; H. P. Standley, G.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 27, 1886.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Co., announce in our columns their readiness to furnish cheap money and make quick loans. Having access to eastern capital, they can place their money on long time, thus giving the borrower an opportunity to recover himself, and greatly facilitating his efforts to get things in his hand. This enterprising company is steadily expanding its operations, contributing useful aid toward the development of the country.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, January 27, 1886.
CHEAP MONEY. QUICK LOANS! No weary waiting. Sign the papers and get your money. FARMERS! Call and see us and get the LOWEST RATES AND BEST TERMS ON FARM LOANS IN SOUTHERN KANSAS.
JOHNSON LOAN & TRUST CO.,
Office in First National Bank Building, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, March 6, 1886.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Company are cleaning up their lot preparatory to building. The plans and specifications have been prepared, and the contract for the building will be let in a few days.
Arkansas City Republican, March 13, 1886.
Enterprising J. P. Johnson has surrounded his home property with a good and substantial walk. We hope others will follow Mr. Johnson’s example.
Arkansas City Republican, March 13, 1886.
Mrs. F. J. Hess left for Suncook, New Hampshire, Monday morning on a visit to relatives. Mr. Hess accompanied her as far as St. Louis on the way. He came home Thursday evening.
Arkansas City Republican, March 20, 1886.
A. B. Johnson went to Kingman Monday in the interest of the Johnson Loan and Trust Company.
Arkansas City Republican, April 3, 1886.
A. B. Johnson returned to his home in Massachusetts the latter part of last week.
[Think the Republican erred in stating that Johnson’s home was in Massachusetts. Everything else indicates that he resided in Suncook, New Hampshire. MAW]
Arkansas City Republican, April 3, 1886.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Company have begun the excavation for the handsome block they propose to erect.
[CITY COUNCIL.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 10, 1886.
The Johnson Loan & Trust Company asked the use of one-third of the street for building purposes, which was granted.
Arkansas City Republican, April 10, 1886.
The Johnson Loan & Trust Company have the excavation for their handsome block about completed.
Arkansas City Republican, April 10, 1886.
John Doyle has the contract for the stone work of the Johnson Loan & Trust Co.’s block and the National Bank addition.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
A. D. Prescott went up to Marion and Florence Monday on business connected with the Johnson Loan & Trust Company.
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.
A. B. Johnson, general manager of the Johnson Loan & Trust Company, is now up in Dakota. We are told in a few weeks Mr. Johnson and family will remove to the city from Suncook, New Hampshire, to make it their permanent home.
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
A. B. Johnson, the jovial manager of the Johnson Loan & Trust Co., came into our town Thursday after being away some six weeks in the east.
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
Having dissolved the partnership heretofore existing under the name of Ridenour & Thompson, by mutual consent, we would be pleased to inform my former patrons that I have rented the west room of Johnson Loan & Trust Co.’s block, and will put in a full line of clocks, watches, and jewelry as soon as it is ready, and will have a first-class workman from the east with me. If you want anything in my line, it will pay you to wait for me.
JAMES RIDENOUR.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 22, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Elsewhere in our columns appears the advertisement of Thompson & Hardway. Mr. Hardway is the successor of James Ridenour in the firm of Ridenour & Thompson. Mr. Ridenour has leased a room in the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s block and will open up a fine jewelry establishment as soon as the room is completed. The REPUBLICAN wishes both firms success. They are all excellent businessmen and good citizens.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 22, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
A. D. Prescott, A. B. Johnson, Geo. Howard, and H. P. Farrar visited Maple City Sunday.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Across the avenue from the Johnson Loan and Trust Company’s block, F. J. Hess will commence the erection of a handsome business block, 25 x 80 feet, and two stories high.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Dave G. Carder, the ex-bloated real estate owner, but now bondholder, has purchased a business lot of Albert Worthley, adjacent to the Johnson Loan & Trust company’s block, and will erect a business house 26 x 80 feet and two stories high.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
The basement of the Johnson Loan and Trust company block is completed. In this connection the REPUBLICAN wishes to assert that the foundation is one of the most substantial in the west, and judging from it we wish to further say that the block will be one of the handsomest in the southwest. The Johnson Loan & Trust Company believes in first having a solid foundation and then building solidly upon it.
[CITY COUNCIL.]
Arkansas City Republican, May 29, 1886.
Ordinance No. 35 was then read. It was in regard to the granting of the franchise to Archie Dunn and A. B. Johnson for the construction of a street railway upon the streets of Arkansas City. By motion the ordinance was laid upon the table until the next meeting.
Arkansas City Republican, May 29, 1886.
Smith’s new $50,000 hotel; Johnson Loan and Trust Company’s block; Newman’s block; the Pickle block, and the National Bank building, are the blocks now being erected in Arkansas City. Six business blocks have just been completed upon the burned district, and six more have been contracted for to be built on South Summit street. How we boom!
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson went over to Anthony this morning in the interest of the Johnson Loan & Trust Company.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Bert Worthley purchased the property where he lives three or four years ago for $850. He has sold from off it three lots, realizing a profit of $3,500 besides holding an interest in the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
A. D. Prescott and A. B. Johnson went to Wichita this afternoon on business.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 5, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
John J. Green, of Wichita, the contractor of the brick work on the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s building and the National Bank addition, is in the city, making preparations to commence work.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 5, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Brick work has commenced on the National Bank addition and upon the Johnson Loan & Trust company.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 5, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
The Johnson Loan and Trust Company block, the new hotel, the cracker factory, the National Bank extension, the Pickle block, and the Newman block compose the number of business blocks now under construction in Arkansas City. Six others are contracted for and six have just been completed.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 12, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson went out into Kiowa County this afternoon to look after business of the Johnson Loan & Trust company.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 19, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
The second floor on the brick work of the Johnson Loan & Trust Company block has been reached; also, on the National Bank Building.
[ARKANSAS CITY.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 26, 1886.
A Brief Round Up.
Our readers, perhaps, do not know the extent of the boom in Arkansas City. A drive over a portion of the city this morning behind A. G. Lowe’s roadster surprised us by seeing the amount of work being done. On Summit street a very large force of workmen are laying the water-works pipes. Probably there are one hundred men at work on this portion of the system. On South Summit street, some 15 mechanics are engaged in erecting the Newman-Pickle block. Farther south there are some 10 persons engaged in excavating for the large business block of six store rooms, mentioned in a preceding issue of the REPUBLICAN. Then down in the Leonard Addition about 15 men are doing the brick work on the new Schoolhouse. This building is almost completed to the second floor. From the Schoolhouse we went around down to the Frisco depot. On the way down we noticed a half dozen men at work on the foundation of the stand-pipe. At the spring a force of 15 hands are at work building the pump and boiler house. At the Frisco about 20 men are engaged in getting out the bridge timbers on the Geuda Springs & Caldwell road. This bridge will consist of 4,000 feet of trestle work.
The yards of the Frisco would make anyone believe he was in a city of 15,000 inhabitants. A large number of teamsters were busy hauling away some 14 carloads of lumber. Scattered here and there in the vacant land south of the depot are 25 tents, inhabited by newcomers and workers on the railroad. In addition to these we saw several camps of Indians, who are up from the Territory making purchases of supplies.
Returning from the depot to the business part of the city, we find at work on the National Bank extension, new post office building, and the Johnson Loan & Trust company block, some 20 mechanics. On the new hotel building 24 men are laboring to complete it. The stone work has almost reached the second story floor.
The last place we visited where a business block was going up was J. L. Howard’s. Here eight men are at work excavating. We do not hesitate to say that Arkansas City is becoming as no other city in the Southwest and in a few years will be the largest city in the Arkansas Valley.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Neal Wilkie, a Douglass Banker, was in the city the first of the week, visiting the Johnson Loan and Trust Company.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 3, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Have you noticed how handsome the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s block is going to be?
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
A drunken brute, last Saturday evening, threw a stone at Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Hess as they were going along Third Avenue to the residence of J. P. Johnson. He was in front of the Monumental Hotel, and as a wagon load of ladies went by, he jeered loudly at them, and in his loud demonstrations got out into the street just as Mr. and Mrs. Hess came along. He turned upon them, picked up a large-sized stone, and threw it with all his force at them, barely missing the lady. Mr. Hess escorted his wife out of danger and then returned to arrest the man. He did so and had him on way to the calaboose when several of his friends made a raid and took him away from Mr. Hess. The drunken brute was a stranger to Mr. Hess, but it is hoped that he will be arrested and be made to suffer the full extent of the law. It is a shame that a lady cannot go upon the streets with her husband without being subjected to such an attack.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson went over to Anthony this week.
Excerpt...
[GEUDA SPRINGS. FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson tried the circular swing. When he stepped on the platform, there was cause for a great commotion. Ask him to relate his experience.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 17, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
We were shown the plans and specifications of the new block to be put up for Frank J. Hess by J. W. Ginder, of the architectural firm of W. A. Ritchie & Co. In design the block is a beauty: ’Tis 25 x 80 feet, two stories high, with basement. The ground floor will be composed of three rooms—main office, private office, etc., and will be occupied by Mr. Hess with his real estate agency. The upstairs of the block will be made into office rooms. The block will be constructed of pressed St. Louis brick and is very similar in structure to the Johnson Loan & Trust company’s block. The contract for the work is to be let this week.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 17, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson went over to Fredonia this morning to attend to business matters for the Johnson Loan and Trust Company.
Arkansas City Republican, July 24, 1886.
CHEAP MONEY! QUICK LOANS! No weary waiting. Sign the papers and Get Your Money, Farmers!! Call and see us and get the LOWEST RATES and BEST TERMS on FARM LOANS in Southern Kansas.
JOHNSON LOAN & TRUST CO.
Office in First National Bank Building, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, July 24, 1886.
This space reserved for the FIRST NATIONAL BANK Of Arkansas City, Succeeding Cowley County Bank.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 7, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Mayor Schiffbauer and A. B. Johnson went up to Winfield Saturday. Down at the S. K. Depot after the mayor had taken the train for the east, Mr. Johnson was approached by the red headed Visitor ninny, who asked where Mr. Schiffbauer was going. Mr. Johnson replied that “if he had considered it any of his business, he would have asked him where he was going.” This made the Visitor man very wrathy and he grew saucy. Mr. Johnson politely informed him that if a stranger had acted as impudently to another stranger as the red headed man had to him in the county where he came from, he would have been spread all over a 10 acre field in double quick time. This enraged the red headed man more than ever and he immediately flew to his sanctum and “writ up” an abusive article against Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson acted gentlemanly and it would have been a proper thing for him to do to have boxed the Visitor’s man’s ears.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 11, 1886.
JOHNSON LOAN & TRUST CO. Cheap Money. Quick Loans. No weary waiting. Sign the papers and get your money. FARMERS! Call and see us and get the lowest rates and Best Terms on Farm Loans in Southern Kansas. Office in First National Bank Building, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 14, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Messrs. A. B. Johnson, F. W. Farrar, and F. J. Hess made a purchase of J. W. Young’s 10 acre tract of land Saturday. The consideration was $8,500.
Arkansas City Republican, August 14, 1886.
Howard Ross, a broker of New York, was in the city this morning. He made a purchase of a corner lot on Fifth Avenue of Albert Worthley, in the block where the Johnson Loan & Trust Company are building. The consideration was $3,500. Mr. Ross is greatly pleased with Arkansas City and its future prospects. He was in the city only a few hours until he began investing in real estate. He will build a three-story business block, occupying the first floor with a bank, which he will establish.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 27, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson and others made a purchase of $1,600 worth of lots in the Bittle addition this morning.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 15, 1886.
A painter, named Albert Burke, working in the service of the Johnson Loan and Trust Co.’s building yesterday, received severe injuries on his hands by the coping to which his chair was fastened giving way. He held on to the rope, but received injuries to the palms in his rapid descent.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 16, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson returned from New Hampshire Saturday evening.
[I believe the following applies to A. B. and J. P. Johnson. For some reason, their partner, Hosmer, was not mentioned. MAW]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 23, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Some days ago the Johnson Bros., cattlemen, contracted with John Kennedy to put up 100 tons of hay down on their ranch in the Territory at $2.25 per ton. Kennedy hired help and went down, but returned without doing anything. He claimed that the hay was too scarce to fill the contract and that he was damaged to the extent of $100 by the trip, and accordingly, he brought suit before Judge Benedict. This morning the case was called and the verdict was in favor of the Johnson Brothers. The evidence showed that the Johnson Bros. had offered 75 cents more per ton than agreed if Kennedy would go ahead and fill his contract. He refused. The Johnson Bros. then secured other men to put up the hay off the same land. The court thought Kennedy didn’t want the job and rendered his decision in accordance.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
W. S. Thompson and Jas. Ridenour are making a division of their stock. Mr. Thompson will continue the business at his present stand. Mr. Ridenour will remove to the room in the Johnson Loan & Trust company’s block, as soon as finished. Each one will lay in additional stock. Mr. Thompson has already begun receiving his.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 3, 1886.
We publish the dissolution notice of Ridenour & Thompson. James Ridenour will shortly move into his new and elegant store in the Johnson Loan & Trust Co.’s building, where he will display a stock of watches and jewelry commensurate with the wants of this growing and prosperous city. W. S. Thompson is also replenishing his stock with a liberal hand, having the approaching holidays in his mind’s eye. Now he has more room to display his goods, he is putting his increased facilities to good avail.
Dissolution Notice.
The partnership heretofore existing between James Ridenour and W. S. Thompson was this day dissolved by mutual consent. All parties indebted to said firm will please call and settle their accounts with W. S. Thompson at the old stand.
JAMES RIDENOUR, W. S. THOMPSON.
Arkansas City, Nov. 1st, 1886.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 6, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
James Ridenour is preparing his room for his jewelry store in the Johnson Loan and Trust Company’s block. The time will not be long until Jim will open up with a handsome stock of jewelry.
Arkansas City Republican, November 6, 1886.
Sheriff’s Sale.
The state of Kansas, Cowley County, vs. M. T. Green, G. D. Cross, and George L. Pratt doing business under the firm name of The Chicago Lumber Co., Plaintiffs.
W. L. Aldridge, The Johnson Loan and Trust Co., a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the State of Kansas, and George L. Pratt, Defendant.
By virtue of an order of sale to me directed and delivered, issued out of the District Court of the 13th Judicial District of the State of Kansas, sitting in and for Cowley County in said State on the 8th day of November, A. D. 1886, at the hour of one o’clock p.m. of said day at the south door of the Central House in the City of Winfield in the county and state aforesaid, offer at Public Sale and sell it to the highest bidder for cash in hand all the right, titles, and interest of W. L. Aldridge in the following described property, being the interest of said Defendant, W. L. Aldridge, in said property over and above the three mortgages hereinafter described as follows, to-wit: First, a mortgage to the Johnson Loan and Trust Company for the sum of $881.80; second, a mortgage to the Johnson Loan and Trust Company for the sum of $99.50; third, a mortgage to George L. Pratt for the sum of $909.31, taken as the property of W. L. Aldridge, and said interest of said W. L. Aldridge was appraised at $609.39, after deducting the amount of mortgages, $1,890.61. It is levied upon and will be sold as the property of W. L. Aldridge, Defendant.
Give under my hand this 7th day of October, A. D., 1886.
G. H. McINTIRE. Sheriff of Cowley County, Kansas.
[Note: Traveler states “Charles Masten” as telephone company man. Republican states “Charles Master” as the telephone company man. MAW]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1886.
Complaint having been made to the telephone company at Kansas City that the service here was not satisfactory, Charles Masten, their foreman of construction, has been sent here to reconstruct the exchange and remodel the whole business. The office will be removed to the Johnson Loan and Trust Co.’s building, where a new section of switch board will be put in and a new cable box with 100 wire cable. Mr. Masten is accompanied by six assistants who will replace the present poles with new ones and hang fresh wires. This work will probably consume six weeks. The material is all here.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 13, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Chas. Master, and his corps of assistants arrived in the city yesterday from Kansas City. Mr. Master is the foreman of the Union Telephone Company, and is here to rebuild the system of the city. The exchange will be removed to the Johnson Loan and Trust Company’s block; new wires and new poles are to replace the ones we have now; and a new switchboard is to be put in also. This is as it should be.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 27, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson went out to Stafford this morning.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 27, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
H. C. Deets will have a good bathhouse in connection with his barber shop when he gets in his new quarters in the basement of the Johnson Loan & Trust Co.’s block.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 1, 1886.
Homer C. Deets’ handsome barber shop, in the basement of the Johnson Loan and Trust Co.’s building, has received its last touches at the hands of the joiner, and now only needs the painter’s brush to render it fit for occupancy. In the rear he has fitted up a commodious bath house, with an ample supply of hot and cold water; the heating arrangements being a small boiler, and tank. A. J. Raymond is in charge of this bath house, and his polite attention will make him popular with patrons.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Sudborough & Armstrong is the name of the latest legal firm. They have their office in the Johnson Loan & Trust block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
The regular annual meeting of the stockholders of the Johnson Loan and Trust Company will be held at their office in Arkansas City, Kansas, on Monday, the 3rd day of January, 1887, at 10 o’clock a.m., for the purpose of electing directors and of transacting any business that may properly come before said meeting. A. D. PRESCOTT, Secretary.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Judge W. D. Kreamer will remove his office to a room in the upstairs in the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson, of Arkansas City, was in Fredonia on Monday, on business connected with a loan company of which he is the head. He is a man of weight, both as regards to his capital and his body. He will weigh over 250 pounds. We did not learn the weight of his purse, but it is said to be heavy. Fredonia Chronicle.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1886.
Justice Kreamer has removed his office to the Johnson Loan and Trust Co.’s building.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 11, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Attorney Jno. Kreamer has removed his law office to the Johnson Loan & Trust Company’s building.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 11, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
The telephone exchange has been moved into its new office quarters in the Johnson Loan and Trust Company’s block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 18, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
A shoveler digging a ditch for a sewer pipe at the rear of the Johnson Loan & Trust Company block today had gotten down about eight feet when the sides fell in upon him. He was buried up to his waist. He was dug out by assistants. His legs and one hip were severely bruised.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 18, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
FT. SMITH & ARKANSAS VALLEY RAILROAD.
From Arkansas City to Wichita.
For some weeks past a movement has been on foot for the building of a railroad from this city to Wichita, as a continuation of the Ft. Smith. The officers of the company are J. L. Huey, president; D. Badger, vice-president; L. J. Miles, secretary; and A. B. Johnson, treasurer. The enterprise has now developed sufficiently for publication, and we give it to our readers as we glean the particulars from the Mulvane Record.
Our people now have before them for their consideration a proposition directly from the company that is building the road from Ft. Smith, Arkansas, to Arkansas City, Kansas, to build a standard gauge road from a connection with their road in Arkansas City to Wichita. The proposed line is to run up this side of the river from Arkansas City to Mulvane, through the townships of Beaver and Vernon, in Cowley County, crossing the Southern Kansas at Kellogg. It will enter Gore Township at the extreme southern point, and run up the entire length of the township to Mulvane. Gore will get two stations—one at or near old Bushnell, the other at Mulvane. The road will cross the river here or a little above here, and run through Salem and Waco Townships on to West Wichita. This is no wild-cat scheme or visionary project gotten up by a few designing parties, with the intention of working up a line of bonds, and then selling out to the best advantage for themselves, as many of these schemes prove to be. It is a straight business proposition that originated with the company that intends to build the road. The Ft. Smith is now located the entire distance between Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and Arkansas City, and the arrangements all made for condemning the right-of-way between the latter city and the Territory line.
Gore Township will be asked to vote twenty thousand dollars, and Salem the same amount. And by the time this paper comes to its readers, the petitions asking for an election in each township along the line, will be fairly before the people, and it will be for them to say whether they will vote the aid asked for, and thus secure the very thing that this part of Kansas most needs; the very outlet that will reduce the price of the two important items of coal and lumber, and at the same time enhance the price of farm products, or whether they will stand aloof and let the road go by some other route, for it is bound to be built to Wichita. If we comply with the request of the company, we will undoubtedly get the road for we have the most favorable route, the easiest, shortest, and cheapest to build, the one that will insure the most local traffic, and, more than all, the route that is preferred by the company.
A committee of Arkansas City men, who are interested in building this road from their city to Wichita, held a conference with the board of trade and city council of the latter city Monday evening. They held a meeting, carefully examined the proposition in all its bearings, the source of its origin, its feasibility and the probability of its being built if the bonds are voted, and after mature and careful deliberation they voted unanimously to drop the W. & W. project and pull this line through.
Now, we have Arkansas City working with might and main at the lower end; Wichita, the city that never lets any good thing escape, working at the upper end, and the company (popularly known as the Fort Smith) backing the scheme. It only remains for the people along the line to do their part and the road is sure to be built.
It may be proper right here to state that, by a recent transaction, Jay Gould obtained the control of the Fort Smith and all its branches, and that he is now the power behind the throne. He is the motive power of this movement, and everybody knows what he means.
We trust that the people in the townships below will duly consider this project as compared with the W. & W., which is now before them. The W. & W., is purely a local scheme that had its origin in Winfield, without any outlet or connection with any other road. It had neither connection with the Ft. Smith road, nor the promise or prospect of any such connection. Wichita has fully and forever rejected it. The Ft. Smith never intended to build a road on that route, and the townships that vote bonds to it will never have them to pay, but will tie themselves up so they cannot assist in securing this line that has direct connection with the main line (in fact, becomes a part of the main line) of the Ft. Smith, thus opening a through line to New Orleans.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1886.
Florence B. Holden, M. D., who has successfully practiced medicine in this city for several months, announces in our columns that her office is in the new Johnson block, and offers her services to suffering humanity.
CARD. FLORENCE B. HOLDEN, M. D. A graduate in medicine at Ann Arbor, Michigan, brings to her practice the experience of several years in the profession, during two of which she lectured in medical college in St. Louis. Give her your patronage, especially in cases of illness among women and children. Calls answered day or night. Office in Johnson Loan & Trust Co. Building, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 29, 1886.
W. M. Jenkins has removed into new chambers in the Johnson block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 1, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Messrs. A. B. Johnson and A. D. Prescott, in conversation with the writer this morning, suggested to us the idea of the formation of a “Business Men’s Club,” for the new year of 1887. They suggested that the businessmen of the city meet and organize such a club, and that rooms be rented and furnished to hold the meetings in, where all questions concerning the advancement of our city can come up and be discussed. The REPUBLICAN urges upon our businessmen the necessity of such an organization. The year 1887 will bring forth many enterprises for the benefit of Arkansas City, and what is more in keeping than we should have a “Business Men’s Club” to discuss them and aid them along. Let the proper steps be taken to organize such a club. The expense for the fitting up of the rooms will be small, and we feel sure there is not a businessman in Arkansas City but what will give a small mite to aid in the formation of the club.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 15, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
The Johnson Loan & Trust Company have removed into their new office quarters in their new block. To say they have elegant rooms hardly expresses it. They have the finest office rooms and the handsomest furniture we have seen in any similar institutions in Kansas. The rooms of the entire block are finished up, we are tempted to say, in an almost superb style. The outside appearance of the block captivates the beholder as well as the inside, and expresses in strong terms what enterprising men the Johnson Loan & Trust Company are composed of. To such men the building prosperity of Arkansas City is due.
[Next article refers to Hurford’s Ice House being located on Johnson Bros.’ land. It appears that this refers to A. B. and J. P. Johnson. MAW]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 15, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
E. P. Hurford, the proprietor of the pork-packing establishment of this city, informs us that he is meeting with a good patronage. At present he is killing and packing about 60 hogs per week, and as his trade increases so will he increase the capacity of his establishment. At present he is engaged in putting up ice. His Ice House will be located on the Johnson Bros.’ land. Mr. Hurford is an enterprising and industrious citizen, and a man who will make a success of his business if possible. His present pork-packing establishment is but the germ of what he intends to build up in this vicinity. Next season he hopes to at least treble his present business. He informs us that Arkansas City is the best point in Kansas for the pork-packing industry. His establishment is located in the north room of the Burroughs block.
[BUSINESS
MEN’S CLUB.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 15, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Action of the Business Men’s Club at Regular Meeting, January 10, 1887.
WHEREAS, The agricultural and commercial interests of this state are largely dependent upon the proper, efficient, and equitable management of the transportation business of the country; and
WHEREAS, The right of congress to make all such laws as may be needful to protect and advance the national prosperity carries with it the corresponding duty to make no laws or regulations which shall unjustly oppress or burden any section of the country; and
WHEREAS, The geographical position of this state places natural obstacles in the way of competition with other sections located nearer the Atlantic seaboard, from which we can only be relieved by giving to the transportation companies the right and privilege of taking into consideration our location in the adjustment of charges for transportation; and
WHEREAS, The recent bill agreed upon by the conference committee of both houses of congress, entitled, “An Act to regulate commerce,” contains provisions which are unjust, oppressive, and discriminating against the interests of the people of this state and the West—especially Section 4, commonly known as the long and short haul provision; and
WHEREAS, We view with the greatest alarms the threatened passage of said bill, and believe that should it become a law it will work the greatest hardship and misfortune upon the people of this state and especially upon the agricultural interests, and, therefore, be it
Resolved, First, That while we commend those features of the bill which prohibit unjust discrimination by railroad companies as between individuals, we protest against the passage of this bill in its present form, and urgently appeal to our senators and representatives to stand by the interests committed to them, and to do everything in their power to protect the people they represent from unjust and flagrant violation of their interests;
Second, That the president and secretary of this Club be instructed to forward copies of these resolutions to the Hon. John J. Ingalls, to the Hon. Preston B. Plumb, United States senators, and to each of the members of congress from this state.
A. B. JOHNSON, President.
J. O. CAMPBELL, Secretary.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 22, 1887. From Saturday’s Daily.
A petition is being circulated by J. P. Johnson and signed up by our citizens, asking the council to establish a sewer on Summit street between 3rd and 8th avenue, to be paid for by special tax.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 22, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Sewerage.
Do you know what kind of water you are drinking? This is a question which should be investigated by all our citizens. The subject of proper sewerage for our city should be discussed and attended to immediately. Our city has grown to such proportions that a sewerage system has become a necessity. From several parts of the city comes the information that wells are tainted in their neighborhood. That water is not as pure as it should be. This, in our minds, can only be accounted for by the cess-pools which have been sunk in our city. Owing to the sandy condition of our soil, the waste-water in these cess-pools finds an easy transit to the veins of water leading to the wells. Thus the water which we drink is more than likely impregnated with the impurities of the cess-pool.
J. P. Johnson informs us that the petition asking our city fathers to establish a sewerage system on Summit street between 3rd avenue and 8th, was signed by all our businessmen except two. At a meeting of the council Monday evening, J. B. Quigley was present and gave a short talk on a proposed sewerage system for Arkansas City. The Traveler reports Mr. Quigley as follows: “He proposes three miles of eighteen inch pipe laid along the alleys and discharging into the Walnut River. At the head of each pipe he would place a brick tank to be filled by a half or quarter inch pipe, which would fill the tank twice a day. When filled the water is discharged in the sewer, completely flushing it. This would use 70,000 gallons of water a day which he would be willing to furnish without charge. This he described as the Waring system, in use in Memphis and other cities and working satisfactorily. The cost he estimated at $12 a lot and the cost would be liquidated by a general tax.”
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 5, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
J. P. Johnson is making preparations to begin the building of a business block on North Summit Street.
[ARKANSAS CITY. BUILDING BOOM.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 5, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Building Boom Prospective.
During the year of 1886 Arkansas City enjoyed a very extensive building boom. Many handsome blocks were built during the year and our citizens as well as visitors thought it would be almost impossible for any city to make a more rapid growth in this direction. But the year of 1887 promises a greater building boom. Schemes are now being agitated and are well under way for the building of several handsome business blocks. We are informed that work will be commenced on several of them within the next 60 days. There will be extensive building on 5th Avenue and also on Summit Street. On East 5th Avenue, Messrs. Johnson, Hill, Rhodes, and Hess have about completed the arrangements for the immediate erection of a substantial business block on the lots formerly owned by Wm. Gibby. The block will consist of six business houses, all three stories high and of handsome finish. F. W. Farrar et al, have concluded to build a three-story business block on their lots next to the McLaughlin block, on the south. Messrs. Coleman and Bishop inside of 60 days will commence the erection of a fine two-story business block on their lot on 5th Avenue next to Frank J. Hess’ new building. T. H. McLaughlin, W. J. Mowry, and W. S. Houghton have each agreed to build on their lots respectively on north Summit Street. They will build together as the lots adjoin. J. F. Hoffman will soon remove the frame building next to Howard Bros’ hardware store and build an imposing business house on the lot. The frame building, known as the English Kitchen, will also be removed and Capt. C. D. Burroughs will occupy his lot with one of the most substantial business blocks in the city. J. L. Huey, on the lots on the corner of 5th Avenue and Summit Street, will have erected the handsomest bank building in the Arkansas Valley. The building will be 50 x 132 feet, the fronts being of pressed brick trimmed with cut stone. Mr. Huey is away now attending to the plans and specifications. Work will begin on this block in the early spring. The lease on the frame building used as the Leland Hotel expires in March, after which it will be removed and be replaced as above stated. Peter Pearson will also build a business house 25 x 128 feet for his mammoth furniture store. It will be located on the lot next to the Arkansas City bank. J. P. Johnson is drawing up the papers and making ready to begin the erection of a business house on his lot on north Summit Street. There are several others who contemplate building during the year 1887, but as yet have their plans not fully matured.
In addition to the above A. A. Newman will complete his four blocks on which work has been commenced. S. Matlack will finish his store extension. Thos. Tyner, E. H. Carder, and D. G. Carder will each complete a business block.
Residence building is also going to boom with a vim. Many were built during last year, but the number will be trebled this year.
The above is but a brief outline of some of the principal building features of 1887. Many will no doubt deem it what is known in Kansas as a newspaper boom, but we wish to relieve our readers of any such idea. The report is with a fact basis and we believe twice the above number of business blocks will be erected in Arkansas City during the year.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 12, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
We wish to call the attention of the members of the Business Men’s Club to the fact that the new quarters are ready for the transaction of business. President Johnson informs us that the rooms are opened every morning at 9 o’clock and closed at 10 in the evening. This is for the accommodation of members of the club and visitors. St. Louis, Kansas City, Topeka, Wichita, Winfield, and city papers on file so that all may keep posted. A good fire is kept burning while the club room is open. Everything is a model of convenience.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 12, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.
The regular monthly meeting of the Business Men’s Club will occur at their rooms Monday evening. A full attendance is requested. Parties desirous of joining the association are requested to come out and enroll their names. A. B. JOHNSON, President.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 12, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
LOST. A memorandum book, containing a draft issued by the Johnson Loan & Trust Co., on the First National Bank of Arkansas City, for $661.35. The draft is dated February 8, 1887, and payable to C. C. Wolfe. All parties hereby warned against buying said draft. Finder will be rewarded by leaving same at Arkansas City bank. SAMUEL HOYT.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 26, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
J. L. Hosmer of Central New Hampshire came in yesterday to look after his cattle interests here. He is a member of the firm of Johnson & Hosmer. He returns east this afternoon.
[REAL ESTATE BOOM.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 5, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
The transfers of real estate are very lively now. The spring boom is opening up far ahead of what anyone expected. The town is full of strangers buying real estate. In order to give our readers an idea of the boom, we report the following sales which were made yesterday.
A. B. Johnson, 70 acres of land east of the city, to R. H. Cooper of El Dorado: $17,500.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 5, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
J. P. Johnson has gone to Texas on a business trip.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 19, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
A. B. Johnson has platted the 70 acres adjoining Garfield addition on the east.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 19, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Maj. C. H. Searing sold yesterday to A. B. Johnson, J. P. Johnson, and H. P. Farrar four of his lots fronting on 5th Avenue for $16,000. He reserves an interest in them. The Major owned six lots at the corner of 9th Street and 5th Avenue, which, owing to the grand growth of our city, have become too valuable as resident property. He will remove his residence to his two remaining lots. He has already let the contract for the excavation of his cellar. This syndicate will begin the erection of a business block on two of their lots very shortly. It will be 50 x 100 feet and two stories high. John Love, who owns the property just east, will also build a business block of like proportions at the same time. Fifth Avenue is booming.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 26, 1887. From Saturday’s Daily.
Messrs. F. J. Hess, A. B. and J. P. Johnson, and W. S. Rhodes bought four lots of the Gibbie corner today for $15,000. They will proceed to build a business block three stories high on them.
[Note: Republican showed “O. P. Johnson.” This must be wrong! Correct name should be “J. P. Johnson.” Have corrected article and newspaper item. MAW]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 26, 1887. From Saturday’s Daily.
Materializing—The New Hotel.
Last evening in the rooms of the Business Men’s Club, the stockholders of the new hotel convened. The meeting was called to order and Maj. L. E. Woodin chosen chairman; J. O. Campbell, secretary. The committee reported that stock to the amount of $100,000 had been subscribed and the enterprise was thoroughly talked over. Seven directors were chosen for the first year as follows: J. B. Quigley, P. Schiffbauer, J. P. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, and H. P. Farrar. The sense of the meeting was to file their charter immediately and to begin work of construction and push it. The name is the “Inter-Ocean Hotel Co.,” and as stated above, the capital stock is $100,000, to be all paid up and put in the building. The site consists of seven lots at the corner of 8th Street and 4th Avenue. The building will be 132 x 150 feet and four stories high above basement. When completed the “Inter-Ocean Hotel” will eclipse any in the west.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 26, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
F. C. Bothwick, of Ness City, was in the city today on business connected with the Johnson Loan & Trust Co. Mr. Bothwick is connected with the Ness City Bank.
Excerpts...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 2, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Ward Convention.
Last evening the voters of the four wards of the city held their convention for the purpose of making nominations. The following is the result.
THIRD WARD.
The voters assembled in Wm. M. Jenkins’ law office. Rev. Cline was made chairman and Rev. S. B. Fleming secretary. J. P. Johnson was nominated for councilman and J. F. Hoffman for school director. G. W. Cunningham, Thos. Van Fleet, and O. P. Houghton were elected delegates and were instructed for Huey for mayor.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 2, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Editor Republican: Please allow us space to correct the statement which appeared in today’s Traveler; that the Johnson Loan & Trust Company had subscribed $50 towards paying the expenses of the Schiffbauer ticket. This statement is false, as this company has not paid or subscribed one dollar toward this, or any other campaign fund nor so far as I know has any person connected with our institution. A. D. PRESCOTT, Secretary.