jj^^^^^^fi?as?-s5^^ ^•~ . .».l8ltiW i flfr)mMB.ittMi»lWVil 1- CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY GIFT OF Dept, Of American History 3 1924 028 875 405 Overs olin ¥}< '^^5 Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924028875405 BIOGRAPHICAL HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS BIOGRAPHIES OF REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS ILLUSTRATED With Portraits of Prominent People, Cuts of Homes, Stock, Etc. MRS. E. F. HOLLIBAUGH Biographer and Historian ,i^.r>. ^2 7 A7rairies Feel the breath of summer. The Trowels ring, And from the soil The burnished cities spring." — Eugene Ware. According to historical tradition it was on the plains of Kansas that Coronado and his band suffered so many hardships in their search for the country of Quivira and its fabulous cities of gold. Crossing the state in a northeasterly direction he reached the Missouri river near the present site of Atchison. Not finding the treasure, they erected a cross bearing the incrip- tion, Thus far came Francisco de Coronado— general of an expedition, and returned home to Mexico." They described the country rich in fruits and with a soil similar to the finest fertile regions of their own country — Spain. In the early part of the eighteenth century Kansas was visited at various times and explored by the French, who mingled with the numerous tribes of Indians that dwelt along the Arkansas and Kansas rivers. In 1803 the state became a part of the "Louisiana Purchase" and a portion of it afterward be- came a part of the Indian Territory. The state was organized as a territorj' in 1854. The territory embraced with the present area of the state all the lands between the parallels of 36 degrees and 40 degrees north latitude to the Rocky mountains on the west except that part of New Mexico lying north of the 37th parallel, with the exception of a small tract. This was a part of the 10 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. above mentioned Louisiana Purchase made by President Jefferson from France, April 30, 1803. The terms of this treaty were to deed to the United States all the country drained by the Mississippi and its tributaries, of which she had any right or title. The boundary line on the south and southwest touched the Spanish Mexican possessions, and on the east the Spanish province of West Florida. On the west shore of the Mississippi it extended to its source embracing all the Missouri valley, and stretched north of the Spanish American possessions across the Rocky mountains to the Pacific ocean, and as far north on the Pacific coast as the British possessions. For this vast- domain the United States paid France the sum of $15,000,000. The province of Louisiana thus acquired comprised 1,160,577 square miles. Its eastern and western boundaries were not definitely settled between this country and Spain untiL-February 22, 18 19, at which time a treaty was made defining these boundaries wherever contiguous to Spanish territory. In consideration for the reliquishment by the United States of her claim to Texas, Spain ceded West Florida (now Alabama and Mississippi) and re- linquished to the United States all claim to territory lying north of the 31st parallel and east of the Mississippi river. Thus that portion of Kansas lying west of the 23rd meridian. and south of the Arkansas river was ceded to Spain. When Mexico achieved its in- depaidence in 1824, it passed into the possession of that republic. In 1836, Texas, on gaining her independence, claimed it as a part of her domain, which claim was subsequently confirmed by the treaty of the United States and Mexico, at the expiration of the war, February 22, 1848. It finally became a part of the government domain by purchase, it being a part of the territory ceded to the United States by Texas in 1850, that state receiving $10,000,- 000 as a consideration. The origin of the word Kansas is Indian, and means smoky river, de- rived from the tribe of Indians found in the territory when first visited by white men. They were spoken of by the early explorers as Kanzas, Canceas, Cansez, Canzas, Canzes, Okansis, Kansies, Causes, Canzon, Kanzon, Konza, Konzas, Kasas, Kanzan, Kanzans and by various others, all having a similar phonetic sound. From these have come the legal recognition of the present word Kansas, which is said to signify in the language of the Kansas tribe, smoky, and the south fork of the Kansas river is still known as Smoky Hill river., The first move for a territorial government made within the limits of Kansas was at the trading post of Uniontown in 1852. A mass meeting was held at this point by the American citizens of the Indian territory. The pro- ceedings are alluded to in a sketch of the early days of Pottawatomie county by Hon. L. D. Palmer as follows : "About one-half dozen persons, residents of the state of Missouri, as- sembled together in a shed. One of them took from his hat a paper upon which had been written a set of resolutions brought all the way from Mis- HISTORY OF -CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ii souri, and asked the assembled multitude to vote on them. One individual said" 'aye;' noes were not called for. Two or three of these were sporting gentlemen and the others were merchants who had furnished' goods for the Indians and always came at such times to collect. These resolutions recited that there were hundreds of families in that vicinity in the interior of the ter- ritory who were bona fide settlers, the liveS' and property of whom were in constant jeopardy for want of civil protection and memorialized congress to organize a territorial government. They purported to be the unanimous expression of large class of citizens assembled together for the purpose of calling the attention of congress to the perils that threatened them." Petitions passed at this meeting were presented at the first session of the thirty-second congress by Honorable William P. Hall, a Missouri member, who, in the following session, presented the first bill in congress providing for the organization of the territory in accordance with the papers of his Uniontown "constituency," In the autumn of 1852 an election was held at Wyandotte and thirty-five votes were polled for Abelard Guthrie as ter- ritorial delegate to congress. As no territorial bill was passed for more than two years, the election proved an empty honor. The manuscript copies of the returns of this election are among the collections of the Kansas His- torical Society. July 28, 1853, a convention was held at W3^andotte, a territorial govern- ment organized and Abelard Guthrie nominated for delegate to congress. His competitor for the nomination was Reverend Thomas Johnson, a staunch pro-slavery man and a friend of Atchison. A bolting convention was held at Kickapoo village September 20, 1853, ^i^d Johnson was placed in nomination as opposition candidate. He was elected over Guthrie, it is claimed, by Indian votes. He went to Washington, but owing to the delay in passing the territorial bill, was not received as a delegate. The act organizing Kansas and Nebraska was passed May 27, and ap- proved by the President May 3O, 1854. The officers appointed by President Pierce, whose appointments were confirmed by the senate, and who entered upon the duties of their office, were Governor Andrew H. Reeder, of Eaton, Pennsylvania, June 29, 1854. He took the oath of office before Peter V. Daniel, one of the justices of the supreme court of the United States at Wash- ington, July 7. He arrived in Fort Leavenworth on Saturday, October 7. and became the executive head of the Kansas government, personally assum- ing the functions of that office with a salary of $2,500 per annum. He was removed from office July 28, 1855; he received official notice of his removal and ceased to act as governor August 15, The secretary. Honorable Daniel \A'oodson, became acting governor during the remaining part of the session of the territorial legislature. August loth Honorable Wilson Shannoff was commissioned governor. Pie resigned August 21, 1856, and on the same day received official notice of his removal and the appointment of Honorable John W. Geary as his suc- cessor. Governor Geary resigned March 4, 1857. Secretary Woodson again 12 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. became acting governor from April i6th, when Mr. Geary's political and official connection with Kansas affairs terminated, to May 27, when his suc- cessor arrived. The successors of both Geary and Woodson were appointed March 10,1857, Honorable Robert J. Walker receiving the appointment of governor and Honorable Frederick P. Stanton as secretary of the territory, to be acting governor until the arrival of Mr. Walker on December 17. Governor Walker resigned December 21st; John W. Denver took the oath of office and served until October 10, 1858, when he resigned. Samuel Medary was appointed November 19th and arrived in the territory and en- tered upon the duties of his office December 20th. He resigned December 17, i860, and George M. Beebe, then secretary of the territory, became act- ing governor and continued in this capacity until the inauguration of the state government February 9, 1861. Daniel Woodson, of Lynchburg, Virginia, was appointed secretary June 29th with a salary of $2,000 per annum. Israel P. Donaldson, of Illi- nois, was appointed United States marshal with a salary of $300 per annum and fees. Madisog Brown, of Maryland, was appointed chief justice and he not accepting was superceded by Samuel D. Lecompte, of Maryland, who was appointed October 3rd, and took the oath of office before Governor Reeder, of Leavenworth, December 5th, at a salary of $2,000 per annum. Associate Justices Saunders N. Johnson and Rush Elmore, salaries $2,000 per annum. Attorney, Andrew J. Isaac, salary $250 per annum and fees. Surveyor, General John Calhoun, of Illinois, appointed August 26th. Terri- torial treasurer, Thomas J. R. Cramer, appointed August 29th. The governor after his arrival set promptly to work to organize his government. He made a tour of observation taking in the most important and remote settlements in the eastern part of the territory extending as, far west as Fort Riley and Council Grove. His reception was enthusiastic. The proclamation for the first election in Kansas under date November 10, 1854, was issued November 15th. Four constitutions were framed as the organic law, before Kansas was admitted to the union. The Topeka constitution, the first in order, was adopted by the convention which framed it November 11, 1855, and by the people of the territory at an election held December 15, 1855. November 7, 1857, the Lecompton constitution was adopted by the cotlvention which framed it. It was submitted to a vote of the people by the convention De- cember 21, 1857, the form of the vote prescribed being for a constitution with slavery and for a constitution without slavery. No opportunity was afforded at this election to vote against the constitution and the free state people of the territory refrained from taking part in it. The territorial legislature having been summoned in extra session by acting Governor F. P. Stanton, passed an act submitting the Lecompton constitution to a vote of the people at an elec- tion to be held January 4, 1858. Result, 138 votes were cast for the consti- tution and 10,226 against it. Notwithstanding this overwhelming vote against the constitution it was sent to Washington by its partisans. President HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 13 Buchanan transmitted it to the senate urging the admission of the state under it, thus inaugitrating the great contest which resulted in the division of the Democratic party, the election of Abraham Lincoln and the final overthrow of the slave power. The house of representatives on July 3,- 1856, passed a bill for the admission of Kansas into the imion under the Topeka constitu- tion. Had the bill become a law, Kansas would have been saved the five years of turmoil and strife which elapsed before she was admitted into the union. The Topeka constitution had located the capital temporarily in Topeka ; other towns were ambitious of becoming the seat of government. Minneola, a town existing" only on paper and created for this purpose, was successfully carried through the legislature. .The bill locating the seat of government of the territory at Minneola was passed over the governor's veto and two days later the bill calling a constitutional convention, fixing Minneola as the place where it would ' assemble, was also passed. The "Minneola swindle" as it was called, created a sensation throughout the territory and denounced as a scheme to further the finances of member.s of the legislature who were personally interested in the town. The public con- demned the act severely and many of the delegates were instructed to vote for an immediate adjournment of that body to some other point. This brought about a long and acrimonious debate. The session was prolonged the entire night and during the morning hours a motion was passed to adjourn and fixed Leavenworth as the next meeting place. The convention reassembled in Leavenworth on the etvening of March 25th. The constitution which became known as the Leavenworth constitu- tion was adopted and signed on April 3rd. It was adopted by the people on May 18, 1858, and on the same day the following state officers were elected under it. viz : Governor, Henry J, Adams, of Leavenworth ; lieutenant gov- ernor, Cyrus K. Holliday, of Topeka; secretary of state, E. P. Bancroft, of Emporia; treasurer, J. B. Wheeler, of Doniphan; auditor, George S. Hellyer, of Grasshopper Falls; attorney general, Charles A. Foster, of Osa- watomie; superintendent of public instruction, J. M. Walden, of Quindaro; commissioner of school lands, J. W. Robinson, of Manhattan; representative in congress, M. F. Conway, of Lawrence; supreme judges, William A. Phelps, of Lawrence, Lorenzo Dow, of Topeka, and William McKay, of Wyandotte; reporter of the supreme court, xA.lbert D. Richardson, of Sum- ner; clerk of the supreme court, W. F. N. Arny, of Hyatt. AREA OF THE STATE OF KANSAS, ALTITUDE, RESOURCES, ETC. Kansas is larger than New York and Indiana combined and has over 52,000,000 acres of land. The north line of the state is on a parallel with Philadelphia, Columbus, Ohio, and Springfield, Illinois, while the southern boundary is on a line east and west with Norfolk, West Virginia. The state is 400 miles long, east, and west, and about 200 miles in width. The state dips to the east and south and nearly all the streams run in that direction. 14 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Where Kansas touches Missouri it reaches an altitude of 750 feet higher than the sea, while at the western line it is nearly 4,000 feet above tide water. Kansas is purely an agricultural state and people of all professions and callings have farms or are engaged in farming and stock raising. Nothing depends more on the capacity of the brain for success than agricultural pur- suits. The banker with soft white hands and a complexion that does not suggest life on a farm, will tell you of his prospects, his stock interests, etc. The merchant discusses his profits and losses on the farm. The M. D.'s from whom one would expect a dissertation of medicine instead, tells you he is doing thus and so on his farm. The attorney with a large clientage and prospering in his profession is also interested in agricultural pursuits. The minister in his conventional suit of black broadcloth is often more or less concerned in farming. The clerk tells of the harvesting of his wheat crop or the outlook of his corn fields; thus all classes of people are more or less directly or indirectly interested in farming, and all have common interests in the inviting fields of Kansas, with its bountiful crops. During the years of 1873-4 Kansas was advertised throughout the east- ern and middle states and a great tide of emigration came pouring in and con- tinued for many months. They wer& from all the states, and of all profes- sions, but many of tliem practical farmers and nearly all of more or less means. The pioneer settlers had paved the way for the later emigrants and to them unlimited credit is due for their courage and valor, during the pre- vailing Indian troubles, grasshoppers, drouths, and the hardships due to early settlements. The years of 1874-5 were the naost disastrous Kansas has ever known. More especially is this true of the western portion. The people of Kansas possess the secret of contentment whose value is more to them than the phi- losopher's stone, and these years were followed by several abundant harvests which largely and rapidly increased the population, although remote from markets and produce had to be hauled long distances in wagons to the nearest railroad station. With the bringing of the railroad facilities the state was made one of the most prosperous countries on the continent. The preference for good schools and churches and all humane and benefi- cent social appliances and public improvements characterized the people of Kansas. These western pioneers did not only want to redeem the desert and wilderness but transfigure it into cultivated fields and handsome homes. The west doubtless seemed to be much further west than it does in these days of railroads, telephones and modern improvements. Less than a half century ago it was a question if this vast buffalo range would ever be adapted to agri- culture. No country can chronicle a more marvelous change in the conditions of things within a quarter of a century, than the state of Kansas. The hardy pioneer well remembers how he used to look over his fields still uncultivated, perhaps, but co\{ered with a cast iron mortgage and interest growing daily in proportion, that would strike terror to the stoutest heart. He next sees HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 15 the drouth and the implacable army of grasshoppers approaching, and within a few hours all his prospects are laid waste. They covered the trees, the fences, darkened the sky and ruin was sown broadcast on every hand. It has been truthfully said, "The hope of America is the homes of America," and when the homestead law was passed by which every Ameri- can citizen or person declaring their intention to become such, tens of thou- sands of homes were established and the individual blessings it brought to this fair land can not be estimated. The enterprising, progressive spirit and early experiences of the men and women who first settled in Kansas, are widely known and to their credit must be attributed the foundation laid for the greatness and prosperity her citizens are now enjoying. Pride must swell the hearts of those early settlers as they now look upon this fair domain which ranks among the finest states of the union. There is an element of romance and sentiment in the history of Kansas that stands distinctly a part of its realty, that belongs to no other state. The pioneer suffered, but we cannot imagine a true hero who has not. It ennobles, ele- vates and draws humanity nearer together in bonds of sympathy that win the admiration and reverence of men. It is evident the people are reaping in comfort what they have so\vii in trials and tribulation. For years the whole state of Kansas, figuratively speaking, was under mortgage and the amount of interest that went into the eastern money bags ^^'as astounding, but there is wiser financiering at the present time. Those who succeeded in lifting the burden were more conservative and adopted the wise old system, "Pay as you go." There are comparatively few farmers now unfettered and the money that once went to eastern capitalists is kept within their own state and has brought to them wealth and financial inde- pendence. In 1877 Kansas ranked eleventh in the United States in wheat and the following year jumped into the first rank, the total yield being 32,315,371 bushels and the sarrie year ranked fourth in corn. BURNING CORN.. The people of Kansas burned millions of bushels of corn in 1872-3 and millions more rotted in the fields, it being in so exceeding abundance as to only command the low price of from 10 to 20 cents per bushel. The fol- lowing years as if in retribution for their extravagance two-thirds of all the hogs and cattle in Kansas had to be sold because of the scarcity of corn ^nd elevators and granaries that were filled the year before were conspicuous for their emptiness. Burning corn was tested as to the expense incurred in using it as fuel and it was found that even when abundant and cheap, it was more expensive than coal or wood, thus a practical test showed that corn was never intaided to be used as a fuel. During this period when every incoming train was freighted with 1 6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. humanity enroute to suffering Kansas, John C. Whittier wrote the poem entitled ; THE KANSAS EMIGRANT. "We crossed the prairies as of old The Pilgrims crossed the sea, To make the West as they the East The homestead of the free. We go to rear a wall of men On Freedom's central line, And plant beside the cottonwood The rugged northern pine. We're flowing from our native hills As our free rivers flow, The blessings of our motherland Is on us as we go. We go to plant her common schools On distant prairie swells. And give the Sabbaths of the wild The music of her bells. Upbearing like the ark of old The Bible in our van,' We go to test the truth of God Against the fraud of man. Nor pause nor rest save where the streams That feed the Kansas, run, Save where our pilgrim gonfalon Shall float the setting sun. We'll tread the prairies as of old Our fathers sailed the sea. And make the West as they the East A homestead of the free." Kansas stood head in the production of wheat in 1884, the yield be- ing 3,000,000 bushels more than any state in the union. Kansas was in the lead, headed the procession and carried off the banner prize at the World's Fair held in New Orleans in 1885. A long list of premiums that swelled the heart of every Kansan with pride was won by the "Sunflo.wer" state. The awarding committee gave Kansas the first premium on white corn HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 17 and the first on yellow, and the jury recommended that in- addition she be given a gold medal for the best corn in the world. She was also awarded the first premium on red winter wheat. The first premium on flour by the graduated process was awarded to Bliss & Wood, of Winfield, Kansas. The first on flour by the old process to Pierson Brothers, of Lawrence, Kansas. Kansas took sixty-five miscellaneous first and second premiums and in the face of great odds, as the legislature only appropriated for the display $7,000 and yet Kansas led the world, and felt that she was "The salt of the e.arth." She received these premiums against the severest competition in the middle and northwest states. ALFALFA. Alfalfa is fast becoming the chief forage crop of Kansas. Once thor- oughly started it firmly stands the drouth better than the tame grass ; is very productive, yielding three crops on an average in a season, not counting the seed, which, when threshed, is marketed at a good profit. Alfalfa is much more nutritious than prairie hay and is equal to a gold mine to the hog raiser. The absence of tame grass has been a serious draw- back to this country and alfalfa supplies this long felt want. In a speech at Downs, delivered on July 4, 1884, paying tribute to the state of Kansas Judge Borton, of Clyde, excited the risibilities of the audience by saying: "He had been all over the United States and thai Kansas was God's country, and it had been said that the world was created in six days and three of these were spent on Kansas, the rest of the world having been* thrown together most any way. In New York, for instance, it is so rough that when they set a goose they have to dig a hole for its tail. Down in Tennessee the ground is so transparent you can see down a foot and must be manured three years before it will make brick." Kansas is, and has ever been, patriotic and during the war was in the thickest of it all, and at one time had twenty thousand men in the army out of a voting population of less than twenty-two thousand and gave more lives to the country's cause in proportion to the number of troops engaged than any other state of the Union. DROUTH AND HOT WINDS. We shall not dwell at length upon the drouth and hot ^^•inds of Kan- sas* for too much has already been said and written upon this subject and exaggerating opinions have been formed by people abroad. The weather in Kansas is somewhat capricious but the citizens generally liave become philosophical and do not predict desolation, death and destruction, as they did in the earlier settlement of the country. When the dry weather begins to make itself felt the Kansan naturally 1 8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. begins to grow alarmed at what may happen and the "calamity howlers'' and "croakers" are teeming with predictions of a gloomy nature. "If it don't rain within one week we won't have any wheat," or "The corn crop will be a total failure," etc. But within the forty-two years that Kansas has been a state there has been few entire failures. Much is said about the weather by prophets and weather predictors, but the fact is demonstrated a.lmost every year (the present year not ex- cepted) that no man can tell what a month will bring forth. The predic- tions of the weather-wise fall wide of the mark, the learned sage has been devoured and the weather-wise parched by the hot winds, or droAvned in the floods. COAL. The coal measures of Kansas are a part of an immense field which covers nearly all of eastern Kansas, the northwestern half of Missouri, south- eastern Nebraska, southern Iowa and a large part of the Indian territory, south. The Kansas bed is in the western part of this field, showing the thickest and most valuable strata in the following counties : Cherokee, Labette, Crawford, Neosho, Bourbon, Montgomery, Chautauqua, Elk, Wilson, Allen, Anderson, Woodson, Coffey, Linn, Franklin, Osage and Miami, also the eastern part of Greenwood and Lyon counties. Deposits exist in paying quantities in most of these localities. In several of these counties the mining and shipping of coal constitute one of the important industries and are a constantly increasing source of wealth. The deposits range in thickness from twenty to fifty inches. As their various strata show the coal measures were alternately be- neath and above the salt seam, the changes occurring many times during their formation and has left its unquestionable record in its organic re- mains, which embrace the marine ' fossils in the lime stone and other sea formations, while the intermediate deposits and the coal seams, abound in vegetable and animal remains of ' terrestial life. Building material, fuel, fertilizers, etc., are found in abundance. Stone suitable for building pur- poses is found in nearly all parts of the state. The varieties include mag- nesian lime stone, blue and gray lime stone and great quantities of sand and flagging stone. Stone from the Kansas quarries is used in some of the finest building-s in the country. Material suitable for the manufacture of ordinary brick exists every- where. The banks along the water courses furnish sand. The lime stone affords an abundant supply of quick lime, thus the requisites of building exists in abundance and consequently are remarkably cheap in all parts of the state. Beds of bituminous coal valuable for fuel and for manufactur- ing uses are found in the central districts of the state. A fine quality of natural gas has been discovered in some parts of the state and is being extensively used for light, fuel and manufacturing purposes. New de- velopments are constantly coming to life and gas and oil are being struck HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 19 in unexpected quarters. Lead mines are profitably worked in the south- eastern part of the state. Zinc is also found in paying quantities. Kansas has taken its place among the large producers of salt of the best quality known to commerce. Since 1867, salt has been made from brine obtained from wells near the mouth of the Solomon river. An ex- tended area in the central part of the state is underlaid with rock salt. It is found at depths varying from four hundred and fifty to nine hundred and twenty-five feet. The thickness of the salt itself is from one hundred and twenty-five to two hundred and fifty feet. These beds of salt produced last year (1901) one million six hundred and forty-five thousand three hun- dred and fifty barrels of salt. GEOGRAPHICAL CENTER. The state of Kansas embraces within its boundaries the geographical center of the United States, excepting the detached territory of Alaska. The middle parallel of latitude between the southern cape of Florida and the north- ern border of the state of Washington, the dividing meridian of longitude midway between the extreme eastern and western limits of the country, pass through the state, cutting it through the center north and south, and one degree south of its center east and west. The bisecting degree of latitude is thirty-eight degrees north, the parallel of longitude twenty-two degrees thirty seconds west from Washington, the intersecting point being the north- west point of Reno county. The state has the general form of a rectangle with a breadth of a little more than two hvindred miles from north to south, and in length a little over four hundred miles from east to west, containing an erea of eighty-one thousand three hundred and eighteen miles or fifty-two million two hundred and eighty-eight thousand acres. The general surface of the state is a roll- ing prairie gently ascending from the eastern border. Kansas presents a succession of beautiful prairies, undulating hills ■ and fertile valleys diversi- fied scenery and a varied surface of fertile soil. . The state is well supplied with rivers and creeks; on the eastern border the Missouri presents a water front of nearly one hundred and fifty miles. The Kansas is formed by the junction of the Republican and Smoky Hill rivers and from a point of confluence it flows in an easterly direction aboMt 150 miles to the Missouri. Valleys on the north are formed by the Saline, Solomon, Blue rivers and other streams. The Osage river rises in the east- ern part of the state and after flowing in a southeasterly course one hun- dred and twenty-five miles enters the Missouri. The Arkansas has its source in the Rocky mountains of Colorado, and runs through nearly three-fourths of the length of Kansas east and southeast, and with its tributaries waters two-thirds of the western and southern part of the state. Its valleys on the north are traversed by the Walnut, Little Arkansas, Pawnee Fork and other streams, and on the south by Ninnescah, Chicaskia and others. 2 20 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The Neosho, rising in the central part of the state, runs in a southeasterly direction for about two hundred miles, receiving in its course the Cotton- wood and other streams. The Verdigris runs nearly parallel with the Neosho, receiving Fall river on the west. In the southwest are the Cimarron and Medicine, which flows for a considerable distance in the state, and a network of the southern tributaries of the Arkansas. These rivers are noc navigable, yet with their tributaries make Kansas one of the best watered states of the west. In most localities even in the extreme western part of the state good water is obtained within a reasonable distance of the sur- face. In some parts, particularly the western- counties, artesian wells furnish an adequate supply of water. Timber is abundant along the streams in the eastern part of the state, but less plentiful in the central and western portions. The varieties of timber embraces the oak, elm, black walnut, Cottonwood, maple, box-elder, honey-locust, willow, hickory, sycamore, white ash, hackberry and mulberry. The osage orange is extensively used for hedges. Statistics show that Kansas can claim a greater amount of sunshine than the Eastern States. The average cloudiness is a little more than forty- four per cent. In the Southern States it is forty-seven per cent, in the New England States it is fifty-three per cent, while in Great Britain it reaches seventy-one per cent. As regards the health of her people, Kansas compares favorably with any state in the Union. The rolling surface of the country furnishes fine natural drainage, and as a result there are no marshes or sv/amps to breed fever and malaria. Especially is this true of the central and western portions of the state. KANSAS IN THE REBELLION. The admittance of Kansas to the Union proved a landmark in the struggle, which begun on her soil seven years previously. Slave power having challenged the nation to open battle for its life, the infant State put in the struggle of years and took her place in the foremost rank and fought with an indomitable courage and fidelity to win for the nation the battle she had already won for herself. Within three months from the time Kansas was admitted into the Union, she was called on to furnish her quota towards suppressing the re- bellion. No state bore a more honorable record than Kansas in this great struggle. The military organizations formed during the early 'sixties for the protection of the settlers during the turbulent Indian troubles, had fallen nito disuse, or entn-ely abandoned, and at- the breaking out of the Civil war the state had no well organized militia; no arms, accoutrements or supplies. ^^^len the President made the first call for seventy-five thousand militia on April IS, 1861, Kansas furnished six hundred and fifty men and he- legislature at once took measures o amend the military conditions of the state. April 22A an act passed providing "for organization and disciplining HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 2£ of militia," and a service very generally organized throughout the state. During Governor Robinson's administration, one hundred and eighty com- panies were formed and organized into two divisions, four brigades and eleven regiments. Under the call of President Lincoln for four hundred thousand volun- teers the First and Second regiment were recruited, many whole companies marching to the place of rendezvous and offered their servics. Each suc- ceeding demand received a cordial response from Kansas and this in the face of the fact that no extra pecuniary recompense could be offered by the young commonwealth for the services of the militia, the state being scarcely able to meet the ordinary expenses of the situation. The patriotism and loyalty of Kansas was demonstrated by not being obliged to resort to the system of bounty offers, extra pay to families of soldiers, or any of the expediences commonly employed to encourage re- cruiting. Statistics reveal the fact that more losses occurred in Kansas regiments in battle and from disease per thousand than in an other state in the Union. The unhealthy region in which a large part of their services were performed, the laborious nature of the service, long marches through a wild and unsettled countr)', outpost and scout duty, and poor hospital ac- commodations, all combined to produce this result. It was noticeable that in the northern regiments doing duty in these localities, the mortality was also very great. The entire quota assigned to the state of Kansas was sixteen thousand six hundred and fifty-four, and the number raised was twenty thousand and ninety-seven, leaving a surplus of three thousand four hundred and forty- three to the credit of Kansas. Three Indian regiments were actively en- gaged in the United States service during the war of the rebellion which were officered and entirely recruited in Kansas. They were chiefly from the loyal refugee Seminole and Creek Indians, who had taken refuge from the encroachments of hostile Indians under Stand- Waitie in the southern border of the state. A few of them were resident Indians, having homes and fam- ilies in Kansas. The "Price raid" and "Curtis expedition" cost the citizens of Kansas not less than five hundred thousand dollars, besides the labor, loss of life and incidental losses that could not be computed. The legislature of 1865 made provision for the payment of the claims by the state, looking to the general government for reimbursement. Various commissioners have been appointed to settle these claims but their adjustment has been attended with much difficulty, and in all probibility many of them will never be settled to the satisfaction of all concerned. The war was followed by Indian troubles in Kansas which terminated in the loss of man)^ innocent lives; men, women and children were slain. Many of the women suffered a fate worse than death. The sa^'ages kept up their desultory warfare which did not cease in some localities until ten years after the Civil war. 22 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Professor Louis Agassiz, the renowned scientist, visited Kansas in Au- gust, 1868, and the Springfield (Mass.) RepubHcaii said in an issue of that period : "Professor Agassiz is fairly teeming with enthusiasm over his visit to Kansas. All Brazil was nothing to what he has seen of natural beauty and scientific revelations." MISSIONARY WORK IN KANSAS. Prior to 1854 (the territorial era of Kansas), the missionaries labored among the various tribes of Indians. The denomination of Baptists estab- lished a mission among the Shawnees in 183 1, in the present county of Wyandotte. The first printing press was brought by Jotham Meeker in 1833, for a Baptist mission located near the present city of Ottawa. In 1827, the Catholics, with Father Schoenmakers, started a mission among the Osages, near the present site of Osage mission. The Methodist Episcopal church begun its work among the Delaware's and Shawnees anci organized a church among them in 1832. The Reverend Thomas Johnson established a school in 1829, on the south side of the Kansas river. The Pres^ byterians founded their first mission in Kansas among the Wea Indians, near the present site of Ottawa, in 1835; they also founded a mission for the benefit of the Iowa Indians, near what is now Highland, Doniphan county. The Society of Friends established a school and held services among the Shawnees, in Johnson county, soon after the removal of the tribe to Kan- sas. Schools and churche were early founded by the Moravians, and other bodies of Christian people. The political strife and border troubles from 1854-61 were not conducive to the nurture of churches, yet during this period foundations were laid by various denominations in anticipation of prospective settlement of the territory. The Baptists organized in 1855, and built their first house of worship at Atchison. The first Catholic congregation of white people was organized in Leavenworth, August 15, 1855, and the first building for the use, of a white congregation was erected there in the same year. In Lawrence, Oc- tober, 1854, perhaps the firts white man's church in the territoi-y was or- ganized by the Congregationalists. The edifice was built in 1857. The Methodist Episcopal church began its work in Leavenworth in 1856, and erected a house of worship in 1858. The first Evangelical Lu- theran organization was effected at Leavenworth, October 25, 1855. A house of worship was built in the summer preceding the organization, and was probably the first building in Kansas erected for church purposes out- side of Indian missions and government forts. Probably tlie first sermon to the white settlers in the state was bv Reverend W. H. Goode presiding elder of the Methodist Episcopal church. He preached in a 'log cabin at Hickory Point on the Sant,a Fe road. July q, 1854, Reverend A Stil' Reverend J. M. Chivington and Reverend Mendenhall, a minister of the Society of Friends, being present and participating in the services HISTORY OF: CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 23 The first church building:, erected in Lawrence was built in 1856, and a small slab church was built in Leavenworth the same year. The first church for whites in the state was. organized near Tecumseh by Reverend Mr. Goode. The first session of the Kansas and Nebraska conference convened in a tent in Lawrence, October 23, 1856. The Presbyterians organized their first church, at Leavenwor;(;h, , January i, 1856. The United Presbyterianr. made their first organization at^Berea, Franklin county, in 1857 ,and their first church was erected there in 1858. The Society of Friends held meetings in Leavenworth county in Feb- ruary, 1856, and erected a log-house of worship in 1857, which gave place- to a good frame building in .,Sfptember, 1859. The German Methodists were organized in i860, in Dickinson county, and the German lAitherans at Leavenworth in 1861. The war that followed closely upon the admission of Kansas to the Union engrossed the interest and the energies of the people. The effect of war upon general church work is fairly represented in the following report made by the Methodist church : Number of ministers in i860, eighty-five; in 1861, seventy-f our ; in 1862, seventy- two; in 1863, sixty-eight. Number of. churches in i860, seventeen; in 1861, forty-three; in 1862, thirty; in 1863, thirty-three. The trials and sacrifices during, the territorial and the war eras, em- bracing a period of eleven years, were as heavy as any that ever fell on any people since the days of Jamestown and Plymouth, but they were met by all — women as well as men — with the patience and heroism unsurpassed in the annals of the world. With the im.migration that begun to fiow into Kansas after the close of the war were persons who if not members of the church were decidedly favorable to the establishment of them, and churches and Sabbath-schools sprung rapidly into existence. The work ^.^js^ag not only prosecuted in the towns and villages but through the sparsely settled country districts where- ever the hardy pioneer built his duga,ut or sod house, the congregations gathered and services were held. An important feature in the work has been the interest taken by intelligent foreign born citizens; most noticeable among whom are Danes, Germans, Swedes, Norwegians, French and Welsh. ■'Smiling and beautiful heaven's dome Bends softly o'er our prairie home. But the wide-wide that .stretches away Before my eyes in the days of May, The rolling prairie's billowy swell. Breezy upland and timbered dell. Stately mansion and hut forlorn. All are hidden by walls of corn." —Ellen P. Allerton. 24 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. KANSAS AN AGRICULTURAL STATE. The fame of Kansas as a wheat growing State reaches around the world. The wheat crop of 1900, exceeded by twenty-three milHon bushels the wheat of the entire United Kingdom ; but it is corn as well as wheat that has made the state famous and in her present good financial condition. Kansas be- gan the present year (1902) with six hundred and fifteen million five hundred and three thousand and fifty-eight dollars in the treasury. Kansas is an agricultural state, the home of the farmer and stockman. Agriculture is the most certain source of financial independence; that com- merce looks to the products of the farm for both defense and supply, no more striking illustration can be found than the prosperity of Kansas with lier pro- ductive soil and genial climate. Kansas has been the home of* the poor mon • its prosperity is based upon the furrow turned by the plow. However, its mailufacturing establishments are steadily increasing in both importance and- number, demonstrating that sound policy requires not only diversified agri- culture but turning of labor and capital into various avenues and channels. It is certain that the wealth and independence of the citizens of the state of Kansas will be further promoted by the judicious establishment of manu- factures in the future, more than it has done in the past. I EDUCATIONAL. The schools of Kansas are part and parcel of her structure. They be- gan with the advent of the state, have kept apace with her advancement and growth and have been woven and interwoven into her history almost be- fore there were pupils to attend them. Lawrence was settled in September, 1854, and in less than four months, January 2, 1855, a school was commenced by E. J. Fitch, of Massachusetts, and March 7th the Quincy high school was established. Topeka was set- tled late in November, 1854, and early the following summer a school was opened by Miss Sara Harland and the Topeka Academy was established Jan- uary 2, 1856. Though these movements were voluntary, as there were no provision of law, they sprang from the same popular conviction which later created the public school system. The example of these towns were repeated in one way or another in every settlement and village throughout the state. Kansas territory having been organized May 30, 1854, its first terri- torial legislature passed the school law August 30, 1855, and from that dare the history of the public school system of Kansas properly began. The law of February 12, 1858, provided that the governor should appoint dur- ing that session of the legislature assembled by and with the advice of the council, a territorial superintendent whose term of office should commence March i, 1858. This was amended by the law of 1859. which made the superintendent elective annually. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 25 The laws of 1858 provided for the appointment of a county superin- tendent by the tribunal transacting county business, and the same law pro- vided for an election of a county superintendent, to be elected at the same time and place and in the same manner, the county officers were chosen, the term to commence on October ist and continue one year. The board of county commissioners by the law of 1855, formed the districts in accordance with petitions presented, and they were signed by a majority of the voters residing within the limits of any contemplated dis- trict. By a law of 1858, this duty was relegated to the county superintend- ent. The state has been divided into school districts small enough to make d school accessible to all the children. Every district is encouraged to sus- tain a school at least three months in the year, and every parent is required by a law passed in 1874, to send his children to school at least twelve weeks in each year during school age, under penalty for disobeying its injunctions. Cities and larger towns have established graded schools with high school departments. At Emporia is the State Normal School (established in 1864) for training teachers. It was founded by a grant of nearly forty thousand acres of land which is being sold to establish a fund for its sup> port. The Leavenworth Normal School was opened in 1870, and closed in 1876. The Concordia Normal School existed from 1874 to 1878. The State Agricultural College at Manhattan was located by legislative enact- ment January 16, 1863. On July 23, 1863, its board of regents held their first meeting and educational work began September 2, 1863. Its four de- partments were agriculture, mechanic arts, military science and tactics, literature and science. This institution was based on a congressional grant of eighty-two thousand acres of land, the sale of which has been admirably managed and made to produce a permanent fund of about five hundred thou- sand dollars. By an act of the legislature the LTniversity of the state of Kansas, located at Lawrence was organized March i, 1866. This university was designed to give all citizens the opportunity for professional study and for the pursuit of all branches of higher learning. The first session opened Sep- tember 12, 1866. The maintenance of the common schools is both state and local. By an act of congress the sixteenth and thirty-sixth sections of each township were set apart for school purposes aggregating nearly three million acres of land which has been estimated can be made to yield a permanent school fund of fifteen million dollars. It is invested in good security, the interest is apportioned among the districts and the fund is in- creasing rapidly. The chief dependence, however, of the common schools is the local tax which districts impose upon themselves, that is many times greater than the amount given by the state. Besides the schools and private institutions there are many colleges and universities mainly under denomina- tional control. "The schools of Kansas are as great an attraction to the immigrant and furnish as strong an inducement for him to settle here as the cheapness 26 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of our land, the fertility of the soil, and the salubrity of the climate. Our people take pleasure in placing upon their shoulders the burden of building good school houses and sustaining the best schools. It is the one tax which all Kansans pay without objection." — Annual message of Governor Thomas A. Osborn, 1873. STATISTICS RECENTLY COMPILED. Public Schools. — 8,927 districts, 9,406 buildings, 11,614 teachers, 508,- 854 school children, valuation of school property, $10,537,392; i,ooo,oou acres unsold school land; $7,021,958 in permanent school fund; $52,000 in- vested annually for public school libraries and apparatus; $4,800,000 ex- pended annually for public schools; $5,377,000 received for school purposes; 156 school buildings erected last year, at a cost of $291,985. Higher Education. — Largest State Normal in the world; largest State Agricultural College in the world; a State University with 80 professors and 1 ,200 students ; - combined property valuation of above named institu- tions, $1,887,666; 24 denominational colleges; 400 teachers; 6,500 students; property valuation, $2,470,000; 3 private normals, 14 academies, 12 busi- .Jness colleges 200 teachers; 5,081 students; property valuation, $490,500; to county high' schools; 60 teachers; 1,788 students; property valuation, $200,600. .Siiniinary: — Total value of all school property, .$20,386,158; $10,000,- 000 expended annually for education; $65,357,996 expended for public schools during the last fifteen years. PROHIBITION. May I, 1 88 1, the selling of liquor became an outlaw in Kansas. The Murray liquor law which prohibited its sale except for "medicinal, mechani- cal and scientific purposes" was enacted by the Legislature of 1881, and went into effect May i, of the same year. It was enacted to enable the au- thorities to enforce ihe prohibitory amendment to the constitution, which had been adopted at the general election in 1880. The agitation began with the organization of the territory in 1854. The first movement placing restriction on the sale of liquors began in 1874, \\'hen the state temperance convention met and formerly demanded a na- tional law on the subject. Many people both in and out of the churches became aggressive, held camp meetings, and enlisted actively in working up sentiment in opposition to the liquor traffic. The temperance advocates became so powerful and were so persistent in their efforts, that in 1879,- the lawmakers yielded and submitted, to the people a proposed amendment to the state constitution to be voted upon at the following general election. The canvass that followed was non-parti- san but extremely vigorous. A house to house canvass of the state was HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 27 made. Every city and town was the scene of rallies and meetings, and speak- ers from other states were imported by both sides. The total vote on the prohibitory amendment was one hundred and seventy-six thousand six hundred and six, and the majority in its favor was seven thousand nine hundred and ninety-eight. Resistance to the new law was general; liquor dealers and manufacturers in all parts' of the country contributed liberally to defeat its practical operation. For two years the constitutionality was up for discussion in the courts and saloons were run almost openly as they had been before the law was enacted; and the bitter warfare has never ceased during the twenty-one years. Drug stores largely took the place of saloons. It was only necessary for a former saloon keeper to buy a worn out stock of drugs and employ a prescription clerk, and sell as much liquor as he could before the enactment of the law. In the cities and larger towns a half dozen times the number of "drug stores" sprung up than was necessary to supply the town in drugs, they paid no license and were the source of a large revenue. There is a difference of opinion among conservative people as to the am.ount of actual benefit derived from a law, that is not enforced. A FRIENDLY COMPLIMENT TO THE HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, AND, ITS ARTIST AUTHOR AND COMPILER, BY J. E. BURKHART, OF MILTONVALE, KAN"SAS. "This book's a gem, a handy volume, The author's sketch of homes at sight. Terse in story, spacious column. Limned in beauty's cheerful light. Reflecting scenes remote in distance With each event set in line. Calling back into existence Forgotten things in lapse of time. Here portrayed are many faces, Silent lips and moveless eyes, Kindred forms of different races. Friends and neighbors, former ties. Here engraved are memoirs golden, Of the day and time of youth. Quaintest history, new and olden. In simplicity and truth. Thoughts of Brown and border strife. Raids of bandits, sack and pillage. The tomahawk and scalping knife. Torch lit flame in town and village 28 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Recall to mind the seething plain; Famished homes were rife; The pioneers of fame All flash in thought to life. On we turn the pictured pages, Each enframed in gilt-edge tire. Vocal sounds roll back the ages, Awakes to -song the poet's lyre. Just as of yore the senses feel By these presents each may know, From youth to age there's no appeal- As morning dawns the noon-tide's glow." COUNTY ORGANIZATION. The politicians will no doubt consider the organization of Cloud county one of the most interesting parts of this history. The participants were beginners in matters of this kind, some just coming from the army, and all from localities where subjects of this kind were given but little or no atten- tion. This applies not only to the county but the state, if, for instance, we take some of its legislation in regard to the county. As an example take the statute enacted in i860, where the legislature not only prescribed the boundary of the county, but actually legislated its organization, appointing three commissioners, all out of the county, consist- ing of F. F. Blake, M. S. Essie and Lorenzo Gates, of Clay county, near Bachelder, giving these non-residents the power to divide the county into election precincts and establish the temporary county seat. Section four of the same act says : An election shall be held on the fourth Monday of April in which the county and township officers shall be elected to hold their respective offices until the next general election. If it were said these men were the first county commissioners, in all probability none of the old settlers would have known what was meant without this explanation, and yet, such really is the case, for their powers were precisely the same. Who the two first named gentlemen were or where they lived is not known, and perhaps neither of the three men knew that such honor was conferred upon them. This same kind of legislation was applied to Re- public and Ottawa counties. The matter has been referred to, to show that while small corporations may blunder, larger ones where more talent is ex- pected may also make mistakes, and it is also a part of this history. The statute of Kansas provides that in organizing a new county three freeholders must state on affidavit there are not less than six hundred in- habitants in the county and twenty freeholders must by memorial petition to the governor to appoint three special commissioners therein named, and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 29 also one person named for county clerk and the place designated for the temporary county seat. These preliminaries were complied with and all tha.t was necessary to complete the organization was for the governor to use the appointing power. The names of those three lenient freeholders can not be given. Many had grave doubts as to there being that many inhabitants. Moses Heller, G. W. Wilcox and Dr. Lear were the persons designated for county commissioners, N. D. Hagaman for clerk and "Elk Creek" for the county seat. The next thing to be considered were the candidates for county officers at the general election. For this purpose the first county convention was called to be held in the little log school house on Elm creek, Sqjtember i, 1866. Unlike the politicians of to-day there were no aspirants. Nobody wanted office; for filling a county office without a predecessor and con- sequently without any one for an instructor, minus a salary, was not very desirable. The county was not canvassed. On the day appointed for the convention John B. Rupe, F. B. Rupe, John and Lew Fowler, David Heller, Thomas and James Williamson from Elk Creek attended the convention. Among those from Elk Creek were J. M. Hagaman, J. M. and Cal Thorpe, Quincy and Randall Honey, N. D. Hagaman, Obadiah Thompson, Matt Wilcox and others from that settle- ment. Mr. Taylor and son-in-law represented Sibley. The assembly was not large but the house was filled — a fair proportion considering the popu- lation. The convention was opened by J. M. Hagaman, who nominated Thomas Williamson for chairman. Mr. Williamson said he had acted as chairman of church meetings but questioned his competency to fill this position; how- ever, he went forward and took the chair. Matt Wilcox was elected secre- tary. Being young and inexperienced he remarked, "he didn't know how." "Sit right down here," said Hagaman, "and I will show you how." He compKed. Other preliminaries being dispensed with the first nomination was for a representative. Cal Thorpe nominated John B. Rupe; J. M. Hagaman was put in nomination. It was moved by F. B. Rupe that these nominees in brief speeches define their position on politics. Mr. Rupe facetiously re- m.arked that this was rather rough, as neither of them were speakers. Mr. Hagaman refused to jnake a speech. In a few well chosen remarks Mr. Rupe told how he had beena soldier during the late war, knowing it would have the desired effect on the convention. The vote vras taken and he re- ceived the nomination. The representative being disposed of, the next in order was a delegate to the state convention which met that year at Topeka on the 5th of Sep- tember. This honor fell to J. M. Hagaman. Matt Wilcox was nominated for county clerk, Quincy Honey for sheriff and Zachariah Swearingen for treasurer. Mr. Hagaman (father of J. M. Hagaman) for probate judge, 30 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. John Fowler, county assessor, Dr. Lear, county superintendent, and Lew Fowler, \Villiam English and Robert Smith for commissioners. Ed. Neeley ran independent for probate judge, and was elected. The nominations being completed it occurred to J. B. Rupe that at the Republican county conventions in his native county they always appointed a Republican central committee and made the motion that such a committee be appointed by the chair, which was done. Luckily for Mr. Rupe no one called upon him to explain the duties of such a committee, for in all probabil- ity the explanation at that time would have been a failure. J. M. Hagaman was elected chairman, thus this act of the convention gives it the just claim of organizing the Republican party in Cloud county, and all who took a part in it are entitled to the honor of being its aiders and abettors. After the convention had done its work, Mr. Hagaman, thinking empty honors were not exactly what he was seeking, stated he was a poor man and could not go to Topeka unless at least his expenses wei'e borne, and it was nothing more than fair that the people should do this. At first it was a damper, as the)^ were all poor, but the argument was convincing. Twenty dollars of twenty-five dollars, the amount asked for, was forthcoming after considerable effort. It was generally understood that Mr. Hagaman would carry with him the affidavit and memorial which the governor was to act upon. Had it not been for this, little impoi'tance would have been attached to the office; hence the effort to bear his expenses. The 6th of September dates the county organization so far as the governor had anything to do with it, but it could not lie considered fully organized until all the county officers were elected, which was to take place at the next general election ; also the county seat to be voted upon by the people. The next convention was held in the unpretentious school house at Clyde, and the two following in the saw mill owned by Captain Sanders, of Lake Sibley. The first Democratic convention held in Cloud county convened Sep- tember 13, 1876. L. J. Crans, chairman of the Democratic standing committee, called the meeting to order, whereupon Moses Louthan was elected chairman and F. A. Thompson secretary. NAMING OF CLOUD COUNTY. Should there be any who still cling to the idea that the name "Shirley" was given to Cloud county in honor of Governor Shirley, of Massachusetts, who was one of the pusillanimous appointees of the British crown in colonial days, the following letters and communications furnished by J. B. Rupe, through whose efforts the county bears its present honored name, are pub- lished. Sol Miller says: The Kansas papers were discussing the subject of "fool names" of counties, a large majority of the counties of the state having HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 31 them. Many of them are uncouth and one might imagine they were named after some of the characters in Dickens' novels.' A number of names have been changed from the original ones and many others need changing. Cloud county was originally named Shirley. The name sounds well but it is a solemn fact that the county was named for a notorious Leaven- worth prostitute of war days named Jane Shirley, who was known to all "the boys." The legislature had one of its fool spells on of organizing and naming counties and in several cases could not be agreed upon. Ward Burlingame, who was reporting for a Leavenworth paper, suggested the name Shirley to a member sitting near by who "caught on" and moved that one of the counties be so named. It was carried and Shirley was the name of the county for several years. The following is a letter from Dr. Thomas Lindsay to John B. Rupe in reply to an inquiry for infoi'mation on the subject of naming Shirley county : Garnett, April 19, 1880. Honorable John B. Rupe, Sir: Yours of the nth inst. received. I can give you some of the information desired but will not attempt to put it in proper shape for print. You can rewrite it or rather use it for material for making up your history. I was a member of the committee on counties, etc., in the session of i860 (territorial legislation). We were organizing some new counties, Washington, Republic, some in the southern part of the state, also your county. In naming the counties (those which had not been previously named) I sug'gested the name of Sherman for your county. Sam Wood, of Chase county, was as usual poking his nose into other people's business and offered the name of Jane Shirley, Of unsavory reputation and fame. In debate either before the committee or committee of the whole house, a Mr. Chandler, of Davis county, I think said that Shirley was the name of the town (town- ship I suppose) where he was born, which formed a pretext for the black- guards of the house to leave off "Jane" and simply call it Shirley, but it was understood by most to mean Jane Shirley all the same. It was with pleasure that I contributed my might to undo the act in a subsequent legislature where I suppose I made substantially the above state- ment on the bill to change the name. Although I did not get my original name (Sherman), but as the people of the county wanted another, I was satis- fied to get the odious name off the statute book and map of Kansas. Of course there were others besides Sam Wood concerned in fixing the foul name on the county, but at present I do not remember them well enough to put their names on paper. As you will probably not use this for some time, if there is anything more or explanation needed I will furnish it if requested. The committee were Ed. Lynde, of Jefferson, chairman; Jones, of Linn, Lindsay, of Anderson, Nelson, of Coffee, and Dutton, of Brown. Lynde is now in Kansas City — Lynde, Wright & Co. Respectfully, Thomas Lindsay. 3 2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Go\'ernor Shirley died about one hundred years before the county was named and a century had passed since he had been governor of Massachusetts. History records the fact that he was governor when that state was the most rebelhous of all the colonies and was in constant quarrel with England, showing that his administration was more in sympathy with the crown than with the people, and consequently could not have been popular with them. It is doubtful if any of the Massachusetts people know of Shirley favor- ably. She has had far more distinguished governors of modern times who were elected by the people and consequently more popular and well known. Among whom are John Hancock, Edward Everett and Nathaniel P- Banks. Shirley died in 1771, but a short time before the Revolution, in Massa- chusetts, but had he lived until the day of this important event, judging from his course as governor, he would have been a Tory. Naming the county for Jane Shirley was a disgraceful act, and that J. B. Rupe as representative of his district was instnimental in having the name changed to Cloud was in accordance with the wishes of the people of Cloud county. CHANGING THE NAME OF SHIRLEY TO CLOUD. The following narrative will doubtless strike many of the present popu- lation of Cloud county with astonishment and even the state might feel humiliated that it ever had a legislature transcending enough to enact so disgraceful a bill wherein this county was named Shirley. The position of J. B. Rupe, who enjoyed the distinction of being the direct mover in having the name changed, was not an enviable one, as much conjecture was engaged in as to what sort of man was sent from a county so strangely named. It was commented upon in a way far from pleasing to a man of Mr. Rupe's sensitive and pure nature. Others wondered if a county named in such a disgraceful way would be allowed to retain its title and suggested to Mr. Rupe the propriety of changing it, among whom was Governor Craw- ford. Being satisfied that so long as this appellation was retained a stigma and burlesque would continue on the county and as this was the most oppor- tune time for a change, Mr. Rupe introduced a bill substituting the name of Cloud. This was done in honor of Colonel W. F. Cloud, of the Second Kansas, one of the noblest and bravest of the state's heroes and a mai the people need never regret their county being named for. When the bill finally came before the committee of the whole Mr. Rupe had a great desire it should pass without any comment, but there was too much humor included, and in consequence C. H. Thompson, of Dickinson county, arose and stated that "inasmuch as the name of Shirley was an old established name, he would like the gentleman from that county to state his reasons for the desired change." This he did with a humorous grin, showing that so far as he was concerned he was well conversant witli the facts, per- haps more so than Mr. Rupe. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 33 However, Mr. Rupe explained as best he knew in defense of the bill. Others spoke pro and con, but more for the purpose of creating mirth. Con- spicuous among that number was John R. Goodin, who received the sobriquet of "polished John," but his polish had no forebearance when he saw a chance to spring a joke on some member. He availed himself on this occasion of springing one at Mr. Rupe's expense. Many will remember Mr. Goodin as the Democratic candidate for governor in 1879. Far the most telling speech made in favor of this bill and which, perhaps, turned the scales in its favor was made by Thomas Lindsay, of Ander- son county, who luckily was acquainted with the details of the whole affair and furnished tlie house with a full statement of the manner in which the county derived the name of Shirley, Lie was an entire stranger to Mr. Rupe, volunteering his services unsolicited. Mr. Rupe listened to his speech with such profound interest that in substance it became indelibly stamped upon his memory. He commenced by saying that when these three counties west of the 6th principal meridian were described with their respective boundary lines, names were readily found for Republic and Ottawa counties, but for Shirley they could not so readily agree. One of the committee proposed the name of Sherman, in honor of John Sherman, who that year figured so prominently for speaker of the house of representati^'es, which finally resulted in the elec- tion of William Pennington, of New Jersey, but the name of Sherman sug- gested to the mischievous brain of one member of that committee the name of Jane Shirley, the names Sherman and Shirley sounding something alike. Jane Shirley was a noted character at this time in the state. The com- mittee, strange to say, agreed upon this name in full — Jane Shirley, but the chairman, ashamed to report the bill in that shape, struck ofif the name of "Jane" and reported it as "Shirley." The members who suggested this name objected to this unauthorized erasure and took the chairman to task for it, stating that the committee had agreed on the name Jane Shirley and insisted the name "Jane" should retain its place, which remark brought down thf; house in a perfect roar of laughter. After that had somewhat subsided it was plain something must be done to suspend this hilarity. One man taking in the situation arose and said he could not see any- thing so bad in the name of Shirley; he _ knew of one conspicuous man in Massachusetts by that name who was a judge or held some honorable posi- tion in that state. This had the efifect of somewhat sobering the legislature down and they suffered the name of Shirley to pass, leaving off "Jane," despite the protestations of the man who insisted it should retain its place in accord- ance with the action of the committee. OPPOSITION IN THE SENATE. This bill also miet with much opposition in the senate, for that which IS generally considered the most digTiified part of the legislature frequenth^ 34 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. lacks culture in some of its members. Sam Wood, who was a notable char- acter for levity, belonged to that body and did his best through filibustering and trickery to defeat this change of name. This man who at first busied himself in unearthing the act of i860, when he heard of Mr. Rupe's determination, tried to dissuade him from his purpose by setting up other pretext that caused the act connected with such disgrace or rather that there was nothing out of the way about it, but a purer and nobler sense of honor prompted General Harvey, who despite the evil machinations of Wood, carried his bill through the senate, which ended the fight by Sam Wood to retain his favorite name of Shirley, though mutilated of the equally endearing "Jane." Tt has been contended there is a mistake about this affair and that the county was really named for the governor of Massachusetts, but Mr. Chandler, who lent his influence in the wrong direction, -does not mention the word governor. Mr. Rupe says that he doubts whether Mr. Chandler or any member of that legislature knew there was ever such a governor of massachusetts, as it was necessary to go back to the history of colonial days of that commonwealth to find the man bearing that cognomen, and then but to discover that he was in no way distinguished, for he was a regular appointee to the crown, and only spoken of as carrying out his master's wishes in oppo- sition to the people; so it would seem that this claim was a conceited farce manufactured for the purpose of palliating a misdeed. Strange to say this act of Mr. Rupe's was unpopular; some of the people seemed to like the. old name best but he is charitable enough to believe they did not understand all the circumstances in the case. COLONEL WILLIAM F. CLOUD. Much beautiful sentiment clusters around the name of Colonel William F. Cloud, the distinguished colonel of the Second Kansas, whom Cloud county was named in honor of. He is also the man into whose arms the gallant, beloved and much lamented General Lyons fell, at the battle of Wilson's Creek. Colonel Cloud visited Concordia in September, 1887, in attendance upon an old soldiers' reunion. He made a speech, at the close of which he expressed a desire to be present at the centennial of the naming of Cloud county, which would be in 1967. He is a brave and true man and was much honored at this reunion. During this occasion he was lifted to the shoulders of four or five of his comrades and carried three times around the speaker's stand, amid three loud cheers. Time has not effaced the feeling and sympathy of the old veterans of the Civil war for each other. Every one of these old soldiers relate with a feeling of pride that he defended this glorious Union and became enthused as he recalls, though time grows remote, how he marched with the gallant "boys in blue." Colonel Cloud is a residmt of Kansas City, Kansas, and is said to refer Col. William F. Cloud. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 37 with pride to his namesake, Cloud county, and has always felt an interest in this great western field. STAGE COACHES. Although sometimes arduous and inconvenient, there was a breezy, tonic effect to the manner of traveling in Kansas in the days of stage coaches, when they plied between Concordia and Waterville, connecting daily with the Central Branch of the Union Pacific railway and a daily line to Junction City, connecting with the Kansas Pacific railway, giving to the settlers rapid transit of mails and passengers to and from the east. Those were halcyon times in Kansas and each succeeding day helped to swell the population of the thriving young commonwealth. F. P. Benjamin operated a stage line with Concord coaches running out of Concordia to the northwest. FROM CLYDE TO WATKRVILLE. ' The mail route from Waterville to Clyde was established October i^ 1870, via Cook's crossing, on Pete's creek, and Clifton. The mail was carried semi-weekly. The route was established under a special contract given to S. C. Wheeler, of St. Josq)h, Missouri. In the parlance of this western country, those were the days when there was "something doing" before the advent of railroads, modern travel, bridges, etc. Instead of the latter the old time ferry was brought into use. and a "whoop" more or less broug'ht the assistance of the proprietor whose benign countenance would illumine with smiles at the prospect of the coveted fare for his services. INDIAN TROUBLES ON THE FRONTIER. In the early 'sixties the repeated indication? and threats of Indian out- breaks retarded the settlement of the country and caused many who had already A'entured to the "New West" to retrace their steps 2md forego their intentions of building homes on the frontier. Each succeeding year the dangers became more imminent, but the courageous frontiersman who remained proceeded to plant and till the soil of his limited, sod turned acres. The country was infested with roving bands of savages ; they were often- times lurking in the most unexpected places, and, with the stealth so charac- teristic of their wily natures, would appear as suddenly as if they had been silently and mysteriously precipitated from the clouds. Upon these occasions tliCT savage presence — for they were armed "to the teeth" — would strike terror to the stoutest heart. Among the first outrages perpetrated in Cloud county (then Shirley) ■38 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. was in May, 1862 — an inhuman and fiendish attack upon the person of Mrs. Ann Wilson, one of the settlers' wives, who had. been visiting; a family on Elm creek, where her husband, George Wilson, was working. Their home was on what was later known as the William Cranmer farm. Her Husband accompanied the unfortunate woman as far as the old Elm creek ford, and -thinking there was no further danger, returned to the place where he was working, leaving his wife to make the rest of the journey alone. Mr. Wilson had not been gone from her side but a short time when the woman, who was left alone on the isolated and dangerous frontier, was suddenly confronted by six Indians on horseback. She was subjected to most brutal assault by five of her assailants, while the sixth stood guard to sound the warning note of alarm at the possible approach of a settler. The babe she carried in her arms was seized by the brutal monsters and ruthlessly thrown upon the ground several yards distant from its terrorized and outraged mother. The condition of the poor woman was pitiable in the extreme, as horror-stricken she gathered her infant to her bosom and dragged herself to the nearest settle- ment to relate her wretched and harrowing experiences. That this fiendish outrage should go unavenged seems almost a sacrilege, but when the condition of the settlers is considered — the little handful in numbers — their incapacity to cope with the overwhelming odds of the savage warriors, their scarcity of horses and what would be of vast importance in those- strenuous times — ammunition. Had they pursued the hostiles in this instance, the result might have been a general massacre of the settlement. As the growth of the country assumed greater proportions they sought to avenge the atrocious crimes, but not without bloodshed and loss of life, as the experiences which follow will demonstrate. HOW LEWIS CASSEL^ J. M. HAGAMAN AND OTHERS GOT EVEN WITH A MARAUD- ING BAND OF INDIANS IN OCTOBER, 1 865. This account is given in substance as told by J. M. Hagaman and demon- strates how the Indian, if taken at disadvantage, will show the "white feather." A party of Wichita Indians were camped on Elm creek, just above the settlements. They begged during the daytime and aftei- having received gen- erously, stole their horses under cover of darkness the following night. Mes- sengers were sent about the community, and as '"Old Sol" sank to rest twenty- four hours later he seemed to smile an approval upon the fourteen men who were armed and ready to begin pursuit. The horses were well selected, the trail easily discerned under the light of a full moon, and a-s day began to dawi? the thieves were overhauled. As they discovered the hobbled horses, a halt was ordered and Lewis Cassel and J. M. Hagaman were delegated to reconnoiter the camp, which was performed so cautiously that the position and number of hostiles were revealed. Returning without having alarmed the camp, the two spies notified HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 39 their party of the result, a council was held and it was decided not to kill unless the Indians showed fight. Mr. Hag'aman was chosen to lead the attack. He divided the men into three squads, with eight in the first line, four in the second and two in the third. To give the idea they had other men in reserve, it was arranged that the second line was to appear over the intervening hill just as the camp was aroused by the first, and the plan worked well. The first line was discovered by the chief's wife. At the alarm given by her, like a flash of lightning every warrior was on his feet and tightening their bows. At this exceedingly war-like movement the men appealed to their leader "For God's sake, give orders to shoot." But their command was to "keep cool." "There is an old Indian in the hollow with his rifle cocked and pointed at you," said one of the party, addressing the leader, but still he bade them hold their fire. In the meantime Mr. Hagaman was parleying with the chief, at the same time holding his cocked revolver pointed directly at the heart of the red skin, whose naked body was not more that two feet from the muzzle of the gun. Perhaps the certain death of their chief withheld the deadly bullet from the settlers' captain. The chief- vehemently denied any knowledge of the stolen horses and called God-tbe-sun, to witness. The leader, with as much decision, told him "You lie! You stole our horses last night and now have them." "White man sleep," said the old chief. "White man no sleep; saw you steal 'em." He then turned to his band and said something very much in earnest,, upon which they flung their weapons to the ground, jumped into the creek, swam over and rapidly disappeared in the shadow of the timber. All that was left for the elated party of settlers was to gather up the spoils of their bloodless victory and return to their^ homes. There were thirteen ponies and horses, one myle, one excellent target rifle, a number of blankets, some bows and arrows, powder horn, moccasins and sundry other articles, all of which confiscated goods they agreed to. surrender upon the return of their horses within thirty days. They never came to the temis of the treaty and after making whole those who lost their stolen horses, the remainder^ of the booty was equally divided among the fourteen men in the .party. MASSACRE OF THE CASSEL PARTY. In the latter part, of May, 1866, a buffalo hunting party consisting of Lewis Cassel, William and John Collins (brothers of Mrs. Oscar Tag-g'art, of Concordia, and to whom the writer is indebted in substance for much of this account), Walter Haynes, John C. Roberts and T. B. Tallman were massacred on the Little Cheyenne, a tributary of Buffalo creek, about twelve miles from where the city of Concordia now stands. As the hunting party 40 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. did not return home when expected, a feehng of uneasiness began to prevail among the settlers, who were always on the alert and fearful when any of their number were away from the settlement. The first party of searchers came upon some Otoe Indians who were hunting on Buffalo creek, about twenty miles west of the salt marsh. The settlers were informed by this tribe that the Cheyennes had been lurking around the vicinity and pointed out to them the direction of the abandoned camp. They hastened thither and found upon arriving near the head of Brown creek some harness buckles, which gave evidence of foul play, and the first tangible trace of the fate of their friends. Among other relics of the camp was found the pocketbook identified as belonging to Walter Haynes and the filing papers of Lewis Cassel. From the conditions surrounding the camping ground they discovered there had been a large number of the band and that it would be worse thai reckless folly to pursue them further \\'ith so small a party, and they returned home for reinforcements. The story of their probable murder rapidly circulated throughout that region of country and a party of about fifty armed men equipped for the expedition started on a thorough and extended search. After finding where the hunters had camped, they followed the track of their wagon to Buffalo creek. This was difficult to do, owing to the hardness of the ground and the devious windings made by the hunters, and the trail was lost at various times. On the third day the anxious rescuers were further assured of the fate of their fellow rpen by coming upon the ox wagon belonging to the Collins brothers, and near lay the dead oxen that had been slain. They were yoked together and their bodies were shot with both bullets and arrows. This seemed to be the point of attack. Indications revealed an Indian had been killed there. The grass had been wallowed flat and blood was on the ground; also the headgear of an Indian lying near. From here the hunters seemed to have appropriated the other wagon, which was drawn by horses and retreated in a southwesterly direction toward Cheyenne creek. Their only remaining chn.nce was to cross that stream ere the Indians could cut them off, the distance being nearly twelve miles in a straight line, but the cunning- savages had evidently planned the attack beforehand in a manner to make escape impossible. They changed their course many times as the track of their wagon indicated, but would come upon an ambuscade of the redskins, forcing another change, only to meet another and similar murderous onslaught. This running fight of blood and death must have been continued for about twenty-five miles. To trace the devious meanderings of the fleeing hunters was a long and laborious task, a day and a half being spent in this way before any success was promised their undertaking. Then they found the body of the dog that had accompanied the party, with two arrows in his body. Just prior -to this event the situation seemed hopeless and they were HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 41 about to abandon the search as fruitless. They were out of rations and well nigh exhausted, but they were stimulated by finding the body of the dog and pushed on. The next day in the afternoon they came upon the scene of the terrible butchery. The massacre of the unfortunate doomed party had occurred near a crossing of Cheyenne creek. The hunters were on the narrow ridge that furnished a road to the creek bottom between two ravines. The inevitable conclusion was that the Indians charged upon them from these ravines and their- destruction was but the work of a moment. The bodies of the Collins brothers, Roberts and Tallman, were found near the wagon. Lewis Cassel and young Haynes had e\'idently broken through the Indian lines.' The body of the former was found in the bed of the creek and that of the latter lying on the bank. All the ghastly butchering and mutilation practiced by murderous savage warfare had been inflicted upon their bodies, the details of which are too horrible to publish — a scene too revolting for description. The wagon was shot full of holes. The circumstances demanded the immediate burial of the poor victims, the bodies having laid there for two weeks. They were laid to rest temporarily in the lonely spot where they had fallen after making such a desperate attempt for their lives and the late R. P. West, who was one of the most efficient members of the searching party, offered a prayer at the grave. The bodies were removed the following spring- and interred near Clifton. The family of Walter Haynes lived at Clifton. The wife of Lewis Cassell was enroute with her parents to join her husband in the new western country and did not know his awful fate until her arrival there. One of the most pathetic scenes of the tragedy took place in the home of B. P. Morley, where the young wife of J. C. Roberts was staying. She seemingly had a premonition that evil hovered over her hus- band's life and entreated him to remain at home, but he, like most of the old settlers, could not forego a buffalo hunt. The time for their return had no sooner dawned than the young wife's hopes died within her breast and she declared to Mr. Morley she would never see her husband again ; for she had "dreamed the entire party were massa- cred." It was to satisfy her that the first party started out wheii they did. While the tedious search was in progress the suspense was maddening to this poor creature, but she was bra\'e, hoAvever, and contained herself as only a woman can who clings to one last but fast disappearing hope. When the rescuing party returned and reported the fate of the unfortunate hunters, her grief was heart-rending. She threw her arms around Mrs. Morley, who had been her comforter, counselor and friend, and burying her head on her bosom, sobbed out her bitter grief for one hour, then raised her head and was calm, but her sad heart was broken. She wrote the follow- ing lines to a brother in Iowa: "Dear John is gone. Come quickly," and signed her name. During her grief she sobbed, "To think he served through the war and suffered the torments of a southern prison to come west and 42 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. be butchered by the Indians." Her brother came and took her to their Iowa home, where the sorrow-stricken woman became hopelessly insane. The Collins brothers were young men, and the sons of William Collins, who had recently settled in Cloud county. Their mother, ]\Irs. Reed, is still living and a resident of Concordia. It is impossible to depict the gloom this e\ent cast over the new settlement and many moons came and went ere they emerged from under its shadow. THE WHITE ROCK MASSACRE. While the White Rock massacre did not occur in Cloud county, it was in such close proximity and when the settlers for miles around were as one neighborhood, that at least a brief account would be conspicuous by its non- appearance. Early in April, 1867 a band of Cheyennes came into the settlement and brutally murdered three persons — Nicholas Ward, Mrs. Sutzer and her ten-year-old son. While attempting to make his escape, a young man living in the Ward family was wounded, but not fatally, and made his way to the settlement, where he communicated the dastardly attack. There were nine of the savages and under the guise of being friendly Otoes were admitted into the \\'ard home. After having been provided with something to eat from the frugal board of the settler, one of their number lifted Mr. Ward's rifle from its position on hooks attached to a beam overhead and. shot the unsuspecting man while he was smoking- his pipe. The two boys ran for their lives, but the Indians fired, bringing them both down, one fatally. While this was taking place the horror-stricken wife barricaded the door, awaiting, she knew not what. They broke the door down with an ax, pillaged the house of such contents as they desired, seized Mrs. Ward as their captive, tied their confiscated plunder on the two mules belonging to the Wards and with their terror stricken prisoner, whose fate was far worse than that of her murdered husband, tramping on foot by the side of her fiendish captors, they started to join their tribe, traveling over hills, through creeks and on for miles until they reached the Solomon river. The settlers from Cloud and Clay counties formed two parties provided with rations. They followed the trail by feathers that had been emptied from a feather bed the Indians had taken, and as a few adhered to the tick they would blow off and form a trail as they traveled along. On crossing a stream they found the imprint of a woman's foot in the soft earth, e\'idently made by the wretched woman that her friends might discover and aid in her rescue. They followed the trail to Limestone and were forced to abandon it, as there were but tweh-e men in this, the Cloud county party. The savages had several days the start and it was useless to go farther. Mrs. Ward's fate was never known and remains as much a mystery to-day as when the foul deed was perpetrated thirty-six years ago. But HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 43 it is safe to conjecture she was subjected to the most revolting treatment and abject slaver_y. She was a dehcate woman and in all probability was relieved by death ere many months elapsed. INDIAN RAID ON THE SOLOMON RIVEE^ NEAR THE PRESENT TOWN SITE OF GLASCO. Through the courtesy of Mrs. Phoebe Snyder, Mr. John Mann and others of the pioneers who were among the unfortunate settlers at the time of this event, the author is indebted for a truthful recital of the occurrence.. Prior to the date of this massacre the settlers of he Solomon yalley had been alarmed at the threatening attitudes of the moving bands of Indians, but not until August 11, 1868, was there an outbreak in this locality. The Indians began their depredations on the claims of John Batchie and Henry Hewitt, who lived near the river. They approached their vic- tims, saying, "Good Cheyames," and suggested shooting at buffalo heads, soliciting the white men to shoot first. The unsuspecting settlers complied, both emptying their guns at the same time, thus leaving themselves with- out defense, and no sooner were they unarmed, than true to the treacherous nature of the savage, they turned and shot them both down. They also wounded young Hewitt, a son of Henr\r Plewitt; shot him through the leg, but he escaped by getting into the timber and dragging himself home after nightfall. The news of this outrage traveled through the settlement and consternation of the wildest sort prevailed. Messengers were started out to get more information regarding the reports and finding the facts con- firmed, they at once began to g'ather reinforcements, while the women and children were huddled together like frightened deer. The next morning nine armed men rode o\'er to Asher creek, and upon arriving there found three more settlers had been added to the victims of the bloodthirsty savages — Bogardus, Bell and Randall. The settlers were gathering for the pur- pose of moving to the stockade, but while they were preparing to flee to a place of safety the denions swooped down upon them. Robert Missel (now of Concordia) and his little brother, Benjamin Missel, were overtaken while making a dash for neighbor's. Both were captured, but Robert Missel was more fortunate than his brother; for, though they fired several shots after him, they were without effect; but his little brother was cruelly killed. John Wear was killed and Mrs. Henry Hewitt seriously wounded. Miss Jennie Paxton, a brave young woman, was teaching school in the little log hut where Glasco now stands. A message of warning was sent to Miss Paxton and her little floCk, who hastily repaired to the nearest house, that of PI. M. Spaulding. As they fled this heroic young woman held her posi- tion between the frightened and panic stricken pupils and advancing savages, but all reached a place of safety except Lewis, the little eleven-year-old son of Captain and Mrs. Phcebe .Snyder. ^ Lewis, not realizing the imminent need of hasty action, returned to 44 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the school house for his coat and being- in the rear was overtaken. Young as he was, the Httle fellow made a valiant resistance but was left on the prairie for dead. Mrs. Snyder was preparing clothing to take to the stock- ade when she was startled by the blood curdling war whoop of the savages. She ran to the creek, waded the bed of the stream until opposite the Spauld- ing claim, and then through the corn field to the house, where the anxious mother found all the children except her son Lewis had reached in safety. The pupils reported they had seen the redskins "whipping him." They had seen them spearing him. Mrs. Snyder \^'as prevented from going at once to find her boy, but believing him to be dead and past human power to aid John Mann and Dan Teasley began to institute a search when they met Henry S])aulding and Anderson Bagwell carrying the little sufferer in their arms. The child was found lying upon the ground with seven spear wounds between his shoulders and it was thought he could not possibly survive the night through, as there was no physician nearer than Minneapolis, Kansas, and the way fraught with danger from the skulking Lidians. His wounds were not dressed for nine hours. However, he was not mortally wounded and finally recovered, though the incident left him a nervous wreck for more than three years. He was conscious when they found him and related how he had practiced strategy on his would-be murderers by closing his eyes and* feigning death. The plucky boy was conscious of Lidians passing around him and one of them kicking him, remarked in English, "Now the d little b is dead." Young as he was, he expected momentarily to be scalped by them and this would undoubtedly have been his lot hail not the cowardly villains been in a hurry to beat a retreat. Mr. Randall, one of their victims, was enroute from Manhattan to his home on Asher creek with a load of pro- . visions when he was o\-ertaken and murdered. The flovir, meal, etc., that with a happy heart he was taking to the now desolate home, they ^ruthlessly destroyed by ripping up the sacks, and appropriating their victim's horses, rode on to commit other diabolical deeds. After placmg their families in safe quarters, the settlers returned to bury the dead of their number. The}' remained the following winter at Solomon, but the heroic settlers returned to their claims in the spring time; for a militia, headed by Captain John A. Potts, were stationed at the stockade. An account of a raid which occurred further down the valley on the Solomon river in Ottawa county is given in the sketch of Robert Smith. His father and brother were killed there. THE KILLING OF BENJAMIN WHITE AND THE CAPTURE OF HIS DAUGHTER, SARAH CATHERINE WHITE, BY THE INDIANS AUGUST I3, li That this oft repeated story might be gi\-en correctly, the author visited Mrs. White, the widow of Benjamin White, and the mother of Miss Sarah White (now Mrs. Brooks), and through the vivid and inter- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 45 esting recitals of this kindly woman, who suffered beyond the power of pen to picture or the human mind to comprehend, a detailed account was obtained. It seemed almost a sacrilege to ask Mrs. White to rehearse the story that brought to her home such pain, grief and desolation, for who would not strive to blot from the memory, the heartaches and the sad recollections it must awaken, and the writer's conscience felt some misgiv- ings when the invalid woman sorrowfully concluded, "In telling you this, I live it all over again." However, she gave the desired information cheer- fully, for she realized it was a duty she owed to posterity. Chester Dutton and Virgil Brown also gave accounts pertaining to this tragic affair. Benjamin White was one of the first settlers on White's creek, having come there with his family in May, 1866. The creek was then known 'as "Granny" creek, but sometime after the death of Mr. White, L. J. Crans, of Concordia, suggested at a picnic held in the neighborhood, the name be changed to White's creek in honor of Benjamin White, and the name was adopted. On the fatal day of the Indian raid Mrs. White was alone with her daughter Sarah, a young woman of about sixteen years, and three smaller children. They had finished milking the cows and returned to the house, when, v/ithou't the least warning, they were in the midst 'of a prowling posse of six savages. The Indians divided into two squads on the opposite side of the creek and came around the bend of the stream, three from the north side and three from the south, led by a stalwart redskin who gave one of those fierce unearthly shrieks — the Indian yell — that once heard can never be forgotten, and especially if given when on the warpath. The house stood near the bank of the creek but a few rods distant from their present residence, and in the next instant they were surrounded. In all likelihood they had been skulking about the vicinity of the White home and were aware of the absence of Mr. White, consequently were brave, but to further assure themselves that the women were alone, they peered through the windows, 'and as their grimvisaged, war-painted faces were pressed against the window panes they struck terror to the hearts of these helpless women and children. Not seeing any men, the brave and noble (?) redmen entered the house and proceeded to make havoc with its contents, tearing up what they chose to leave, and proceeding to carry the remainder away as part of their booty. A more critical moment than this, with a helpless woman and her offspring at the mercy of these soulless demons, cannot be conceived. Their first thought was to escape while the house was being plundered and hasten to join Mr. White and his three sons, who were making hay on the Republican river, but the first move they made in that direction was thwarted by two of the Indians seizing the older daughter, a comely young girl just entering upon the dawn of womanhood. The frenzied mother resisted as much as possible, and with a child in her arms was dragged some distance, but her interference was useless. The power- ful savages bore the girl away into captivity, her pitiful, agonizing screams 4.6. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSx\S. wafted on the breezes to the half-crazed, siiff^ing mother, growing fainter and more- faint until they disappeared in the distance, leaving the desolate woman haunted by the -worst fears — fears that her fate might be even worse than death. The remaining four brought the other members of the family back and resuming their plundering, took everything in the way of blankets, shawls, etc., and hung them on the fence. By this time they were laboring under marked excitement. Their posse had been lessened by two, and as they hurriedly skirmished around to get their ponies, Annie, the eldest of the three left with their mother, suggested they go and find Sarah. They started, but only succeeded in moving a few paces when, with menacing threats, they were ruthlessly pulled back to 4:heir stations in the little cabin that was being rudely divested of its contents — articles that had been hauled many miles to make them comfortable on the frontier. While the murder- ous and thieving brigands were packing the goods on their ponies their attention was so diverted that their usually eagle eye did not ses the mother and her little children make the second exit. They reached the timber that skirted the creek and drawing themselves through the thick growth of underbrush they hid behind a larg-e cotton- wood log. They had no sooner reached this temporary retreat than the demons having discovered their captives had flown, started toward the creek in hot pursuit, renting the air with their frightful war whoops, while they tore up and down the stream like mad fiends, the brush snajjping and cracking under the feet of the excited horses as their riders scanned the bends of the creek hunting for the fuguti\'es. But probable fears for the safety of their copper-colored skins prevented them from making a more minute search and saved the scalps of the hiding refugees. The Indians then turned in the direction of the river and rode over to where Mr. White and his sons were working. The summer of 1868 ^\'as phenomenalh- dry and hot, even for Kansas. The productive creek bottoms, which in 1867 and again in 1869 were a great sea of tall blue joint, offorded nothing tit for the mowing machine, and settlers from far and near established camps along the Republican river and put up hay. The meadows between Yuma and Norway were full of hay camps. Benjamin White and Virgil Brown were camped on the south side, just above where the railroad bridge now spans the river. Mr. White had been there more than two weeks. He kept a dairy aaid was providing winter forage for his cows. William .English, whose claim was on the river north of what is now the foot of Broadway, Concordia, and a Mr. Eaves, who lived further down the Republican, had established a camp on the opposite side of the stream from Mr. White and Mr. Brown on the land now owned by Judson M. Button. There were many other hay maimers at various points along the ri\-er, among them Myers and Daugherty, of Salt creek, Cornelius Reed, Sr., Dennis Taylor, with his sons. Lieutenant Johnson and John Harris, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. a7 the latter from Mill creek. Owing to the condition that they were all cognizant of the fact that an outbreak was liable to occur at an? moment it is strange that these men were not armed, nor were there but few fire- arms in the settlement at that time. The morning of the raid Virgil Brown had rode o\er to the camp of English and Eaves and was sitting on his horse conversing with these neigh- boring hay-makers when they discovered Indians were dashing into the meadow from the south side. Mr. White was standing on the top of a hay stack which they were topping oif, while his three sons, John, Martin and Charles, were pitching the hay up to him from a wagon. Two horses stood harnessed to the wagon and four or five others were lariated a short dis- tance away. The boys jumped down, mounted the horses (two on one animal) and rode away toward the river. An Indian charg-ed upon John, knocking him off his horse with the butt of his lance. The other boys jumped, ran to the river and waded across. Meanwhile one of the savages was loosening the picketed horses and Mr. White, who was a brave and^ fearless man, bordering on to recklessness, descended from the stack and walked toward the Indian, rapidly at first, then slackened his pace, and finally stopped, and after a moment's hesitation turned and started for the river. Just as he was hidden from view by the intervening timber ]\Ir. Brown and Mr. Eaves heard the report of a gun and saw one Indian going across the prairie with Mr. White's horses, while the others galloped up the river. Mr. White had guns in the camp, but their tent was some dis- tance away. Not thinking they were on the warpath, and being in total ignorance of the outrage just perpetrated upon his helpless family, he walked toward them unarmed, thinking they ^^"0uld desist, but the moment the Indians noted his disadvantage they fired and shot him through the body. John White, the older of the sons, says the Indians carried no firearms heavier than revolvers, but were armed with lances, bows and quivers of arrows. ^Al^ile John was knocked off his horse he skulked along in the grass and remained hidden until Mr. Brown and Mr. English arrived. ^Nlr. White Avas not yet dead when they found him and anxiously inquired about his boys, but died a moment later. As was the custom in such events on the frontier, messengers were sent to herald the tragedy throughout the set- tlement and all the available men in the locality assembled to discuss the siituation and devise plans for their safety. Chester Button and John Harris had noticed what pm-ported to be figures in the distance. Just as Dennis Taylor rode up the figures came into view again on the bench south of Oneonta. "I am going to see what those objects are," said Mr. Taylor, and putting spurs to his horse the crowd followed. The "objects" proved to be the sorrow stricken wife and mother, mourning the uncertain fate of her beloved daughter, enroute to the camp where she could pour her tale of woe int© the ears of the devoted husband and father, and together devise some plan to rescue their child from the brutal savages. All unconscious of his deplorable fate, she, with her children. 48 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. all barefooted, had trudged those five miles in desiDeration, alert to every sound, even the winds that rtistled in the burnt grasses of the prairie seemed full of peril, and when they heard the sound of approaching horsemen they feared their doom was sealed and hastened on as fast as their sore and bleeding feet could carry them. But Annie had discovered the supposed enemy was not Indians, but white men of the settlement. Mrs. White told her story and then inquired for her husband and sons. Not for several moments could any of those stout, big-hearted frontiersmen reveal, to this woman, whose cup of bitterness was already full to overflowing, the sad fate of her husband — the words that would convey his tragic and cruel death were frozen upon their lips as she looked from one to another for her answer. At length iLeutenant Johnson broke the painful, melancholy siilence. These were his words : "The boys, Mrs. White, are safe, but the old man is killed." A wagon and team was placed at the disposal of the brave but heart-broken woman, and she with her trembling little ones were taken to a place of safety. MILITIA ORGANIZATION. Just prior to this event State Adjutant General Mc^Vfee made a per- sonal reconnoisance of the Kansas frontier, and stopping at Lake Sibley, advised the settlers to organize themselves into a militia company, promis- ing to commission the officers they might elect and to arm the company with Maynard carbines. A meeting was promptly called, every available man and boy responding, and Basil Coleman Sanders was elected captain. Peter Harod Johnson, first lieutenant, and Frank Lawrence, of Lawrenceburg, sec- ond lieutenant. Wednesday, August 12, 1867, brought the commissions. The carbines that were dispatched at the same time never reached their destina- tion, but Starr carbines were afterward sent to replace them. While the settlers were conversing with Mrs. A\'hite, Captain Sanders arrived, and gather- ing what information he could, said prompt action must be taken. Airs. White thought the Indians were Pawnees and this gave Captain Sanders hope of being able to rescue the captive girl, but if upon the other hand they were Cheyennes or Arapahoes (as they proved) a strong camp was resting on the Solomon, sending smaller posses to raid salient points simultaneously, inasmuch as the AMiite Rock settlement was in need of assistance. In either case he declared it called "for an immediate advance to the White Rock, and called for volunteers to start then and there ; no time to turn back for a bis- cuit or a blanket. The men who valiantly responded to his call were William English, Oscar Taggart, Chester Button, ]\Iilton Spencer, John Neve, Joe Merica and Jacob Hull. Before reaching Little Oak creek the company was joined bv George Button and Homer Adkins. First Lieutenant Johnson was detailed to reconnoiter the AA'hite premises, find the trail of savages and meanwhile send messengers to Salt Creek and down the river for men to start on a rescuing tour with him the next day with instructions to turn back if HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 49 the trail led toward the Solomon. For to follow it into the camp of the Cheyennes meant instant death to Miss White and probably the entire party. Captain Sanders and his party rode along the west side of the river with neither road or bridges. Night came on; an linky darkness overspread the sky and their brave captain lead the way by an occasional flash of lightning, the men following in single file. Mr. Dutton brought up the rear, and being a poor horseman and unused to the saddle, he came near being left repeatedly. The others were all soldierly fellows and fine marksmen, but perhaps none of them were more valiant than he. Late that night they reached a stockade that had been formed by some hay-makers who had been raided by the Indians the day before and lost one of their settlers, a young man by the name of Winbigler, from Illinois. They pressed on until they knew it was useless to piu^sue an uncertainty any longer and as they had not been joined by Lieutenant Johnson as di- rected, they turned back. Upon their retuni they found the following mes- sage from Governor Crawford: "Tell the. settlers of Lake Sibley to stick together — By the eternals, I'll see that they are protected" — But the gov- ernor not responding as promptly - as they expected, the settlers instituted a militia, and places of safety were established in various settlements, at Sanders Mill, Clyde, Clifton, and other places along the river. Mrs. White and her family were installed in a vacant log house belonging to Dennis Taylor and situated near the mill, where she could live in an atmosphere of security. MISS WHITE TAKEN INTO CAPTIVITY. Words cannot adequately describe the sensations of Sarah Catherine White as she was carried by her brutal assailants about five miles across Buffalo creek, where fifteen other Cheyennes were seemingly awaiting this marauding fraction of their tribe. Here ]\Iiss White was left with a guard, one Indian on the brow of the hill and another at the base. The remaining portion of the band started out in the direction of the river. Left on this deso- late hill, awaiting her own ouknown fate and suffering bodily torture from the diabolical assault of her inhuman captors. Miss White speculated in her mind as to her mother and the other three children. She reasoned they had teen cruelly maltreated and then perhaps annihilated, and thought of her father and brothers as saved because of being away, neither did she know diflierently, but mourned the former as dead or suffering- a worse fate until her release six months later. After her conspirators returned they began a journey westward and after several days travel they reached the headwaters of the Republican, where they joined the tribe with their warriors, scjuaws and papooses. The squaws were marked in their kind attentions to Miss White and exhibited real sympathy; as they gathered around the fair young prisoner some of them caressed her and min-mured the while "poor papoose," "poor 50 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. papoose," the true mother instinct asserting itself even in the savage breast as they thought of her having been torn from the arms of loving parents. About three weeks from the date of Miss White's capture, Mrs. Mor- gan, the four weeks bride of James Moi'gan of Ottawa county, was carried into the same camp. The meeting between these two young prisoners was a pathetic incident. Miss White was completely overcome and could not utter a word. Mrs. Morgan was the- first to speak ; approaching Miss White she asked: "Sister, how do you like this life?" Miss White could not answer, she knew what the new captive had undergone and their deplorable situations paralyzed her powers of speech. Yet the two young women were company for each other and were allowed to converse together around the campfire. And inasmuch as both were doomed to the same conditions it was fortunate for both they were in the same camp. Miss White was of rather a sub- missive nature for she knew of no other alternative, and was a general favorite among both the braves and the squaws. Among the stolen property of the tribe was a dress that had been taken from the settlement. This they proffered Miss White as a token of their ap- preciation, but compelled Mrs. Morgan to wear the native costume. Mrs. Morgan was of an aggressive nature and did not readily yield to their in- dignities, however in some instances they seemed to admire her courage and bravery. On one occasion a squaw requested -her to help drive ponies. Mrs. Morgan refused, whereupon the squaw struck her a heavy blow. In an instant Mrs. Morgan was in pursuit of her fleeing assailant, caught her and administered a sotmd thrashing, amidst the yells of approval from the warriors of the tribe who seemed delighted over her bravery. The two young women were together until their rescue by General Custer and his brave follo\vers. The capti\'es were given a tent each and were the special property of one Indian after they were established in the tribe, but had been exchanged tuo or three times among other chiefs of the Cbeyennes. They had planned an escape one night but had forgotten to appoint a meeting place and after going about for sometime without finding each other, and knowing the least signal would bring the savages' down upon them, they each returned to their tents. The following day they de- vised more complete plans, and met that night at a certain tree as designated. Cautiously, silently, the two prisoners who had often considered death would be preferable to their situations, if they were not to be rescued, stole out of the camp while the usually alert savages were slumbering heavily and when beyond the confines of the Indian grounds, bounded along toward the government trail like two frightened deer. They had not gone but 'a few miles, however, when they heard a low, muffled, rumbling sound as of dis- tant thunder, that seemed to come from the trail just in advance of them. They listened, queried, and in a moment it dawned upon the excited fugi- ti^•es that a herd of buffalo were coming down the trail, and knowing they HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 51 - would be trampled to death if they did not change their course, sought refuge in a slough of tall grass. The herd was hours in passing- and their escape was retarded. After the buffalo passed they thought best to locate the trail before daylight, that they could resume their journey after nightfall the following evening. But as they started out again the next evening and were passing down the trail a. gun was fired, the bullet whizzing over their heads, and in looking around discovered an Indian in pursuit. Dismayed at their ill-omened fate, there was no alternative but to be marched back to their life of slavery. On the return trip they stopped to rest and the savage dropped asleep with his re- volver loose by his side. .They were tempted to use it in their defense but thought he might be feigning sleq) and kill them or that the other Indians were skulking near by. • The slavery and indignities that were imposed upon the young women was made doubly more harrowing after this event and they were watched constantly. Mr. Morgan was wouiided and left for dead at the same time his wife was captured, but was nursed back to life and health by friends in Minneapolis, Kansas, and now lives on his farm in Ottawa county. Mrs. Morgan's brother accompanied General Custer during the winter campaign and was present at the rescue of his sister. He did not recognize her, as the costuine and general appearance had entirely changed her personality. In April, when they were rescued. Miss White went into Junction City where some young men from Lake Sibley happened to be, and they chartered a carriage and sent the young woman to her once happy home. Miss White is now Mrs. Brooks, the mother of an interesting family and continues to live in the same vicinity. General Custer obtained the women by a bold stroke. He with his staff rode into the camp of the Cheyennes and demanded them to care for his horses. His men followed and thus surrounded General Custer demanded the prisoners, and as he did so threw some ropes over the limb of a tree, ex- plaining the result of a refusal. The captives were forthcoming and the chiefs were detained as hostage, and later met with a tragic death. Word was received by Mr. Dutton from his brother, who had consulted an Indian agent, saying: "If the Indians were successful in recapturing the young women, which they would try to do, their fate would be terrible." Miss White taught school in the primitive log house in Elk township, after her return from captivity. Mrs. Morgan gave birth to an Indian child several months after her release. The child lived to be nearly three years of age. The author con- versed with the physician who was called professionally to the bedside of this child during the illness that preceded its death. In his remarks he said the Indian predominated decidedly, also, that Mrs. Morgan's love for the child was very much like that of ordinary mothers and sincerely mourned the death of her offspring. The little fellow had all the instincts and charac- 52 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. teristics of his race, would hide behind doors and corners, creep along the grass and bushes, and exhijjited many of their traits. Mrs. Morgan's case was a peculiarly sad one. Mrs. Brooks seems happy with her husband and her several children ; but Mrs. Morgan's life became a Ijurden, she was dissatisfied, morose and unhappy. Three children came to bless their home after her return, but she left her husband and childrai, was very unhappy until finally her mind gave way under the great mental pres- sure and the poor unfortunate woman finally lost her reason and was taken to the asylum for the insane about two years ago, where she died on June It, 1902, at the age of fifty-eight years. Thus ended the sad story of a woman whose life was marked by trials and sorrows as is seldom the lot of human beings. Mrs. White retained the homestead, reared her family there, and has made a comfortable home, now owning over a section of land. She, with her two sons, Lewis J. and William Elmer, operate the farm. Mrs. White says when she hears people complaining of hardships and hard times, she often thinks their knowledge along these lines is very limited. INDIAN RAID ON THE REPUBLICAN VALLEY, JUNE 2, 1 869. From Wilder's annals we quote the following: "November 15, 1868, General Sheridan makes a report to General Sherman and demands that the war department 'have sole and entire charge of the Indians. It is 'to the interest of the nation and humanity to put an end to this inhuman farce. The peace commission, the Indian department, the military and the Indians make a "balky team." The public treastiry is depleted and innocent people murdered in the quadrangular management, in A\'hich the public treasury and the unarmed settlers are the greatest suffers.' " He further says: "De- cember 24, 1868, the Indians make an entire surraider to General Phil. Sheridan;" J. B. McAfee, adjutant general, reports: "That as far as can be ascertained on the border and on the plains, within the limits of the state of" Kansas, during the year 1868 the killed numbers from eighty to one hun- dred persons." Notwithstanding the "Indians made an entire surrender to General Phil. Sherman in 1868," another raid occurred on the Republican river in Cloud county, on Jime 2, 1869. Through a graphic recital of the event as told by the late Nels Nelson, Jr., the author is enabled to give an authentic account of the attack on that date, when Ezra, the twelve-year-old son of Homer Adkins, who settled, on the east side and about six miles up the Republican river from the pres- ent site of Concordia, in 1868, was slain by the Indians within a short dis- tance of his home. Nels Nelson, Jr., and his two brothers, James and Christian, were breaking prairie in a field on the opposite side of the river. Ezra Adkins had come to borroAv some flour of the Nelson family. The boy was herding on the west side of the Republican and said before taking the flour he would HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 5 3 ride down the river and round up his cattle driving them homeward across the river. In the meantime the Indians, to about thirty in number and that many more across the river watching the settlement from the east side in the vicinity of the Adkins and Dutton homes, came swooping down between the boy on horseback and the men in the field. There were about twenty of the yelping, • howling savages mounted and about ten or a dozen more hanging on to the tails of the ponies. They were all armed with guns and weapons of warfare they hael received from the government, seemingly to aid the blood-thirsty Cheyennes in their fatal attacks on the settlers. As they came across the. countrv shooting and making the hills back from the beautiful valley resound their fierce war-whoops, the terror-stricken boy dismounted from his horse thinking his chances would be better for gaining the tall grass and bushes along the river where he might elude them by hiding, but one savage caught his horse while another, who had been hanging an the tail of the mounted Indian's pony, pursued their little vic- tim, caught and held him fast by the hand, the boy resisting with all his strength. Nels Nelson, Jr., who had hidden in a knoll of sand and wit- nessed this foul deed, but was unable to render assistance, said the sa\'age on horseback seemingly ordered the boy released and then shot him twice in the head. After piercing him with the bullets of their unerring rifles, they stooped over his lifeless body and Mr. Nelson supposed they were scalping him but it proved that they were robbing the little fellow of some of his clothing. ^^''hiIe this part of the band was in course of action the main body of the redskins started for the breaking team which consisted of two mules and one horse driven by James, a lad of se\'enteen years. They caught the team, cut them loose from the plow and while this was proceeding, an Indian with his spear in position turned to pierce the body of his coveted victim, when James boldly drew a revolver. This sudden and unexpected action disconcerted the murderous savage and thro\ving himself on the side of his pony rode rapidly away, allowing the young man to make his escape and live to become a prominent farmer and stock man of Republic county, and is the father of Dr. Nelson, of Concordia. After securing the breaking team and the murdered- boy's horse, the Indians came together and held a short council. While this was in course of progress, Nels Nelson, Jr., repaired to their frontier cabin and prevailed upon his father, the Reverend Nels Nelson, his wife, with their two-year- old child, and his two brothers, to run to the river with all possible haste, while he took his gun and returned to the sand knoll from which he could discover the movements of the Indians. When Mr. Nelson saw his family had reached the river he hastily joined them, helping his aged father across the stream while his trembling wife waded with her two-year-old child in lier arms throug-h the water full waist deep. Upon reaching the humble house of the Adkins' the anxious mother inquired, for her boy. When told 54 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ■of the tragedy, the ill-fated mother was almost frenzied with grief, re- fusing to be comforted for many months. I'^-om the Adkins homestead they could look across the river and \\-it- ness the Indians as they stealthily crawled through the grass, surrounded the home and fired upon it; but finding the inmates had vacated, the mauraders entered and stripped the home of its contents, taking what they could, including a line full of clothes that had just been laundered by Mrs. Nelson, and destroyed what thej^ did not want. A feather bed was carried to a nearby hill, where it was ripped open and emptied of its contents, but carried the tick away, while the feathers were left to swirl through the air. They appropriated most of the provisions; some bacon left in the cabin gave evidence of having been speared, as it v/as seen from being pierced by their poisonous spear points. Under cover of darkness, the night following the attack, Nels Nel- son, Jr., with a son-in-law of Mr. Adkins, accompanied by a Newfoundland dog went in search of the body of the murdered boy. The canine readily found the remains of his little master, with whom the dog wa;s a prime favorite, and manifested his discovery by barking. The scene was a ghastly one, with the brains oozing from the gunshot wound that had been inflicted about seven hours earlier. The grief of the family was terrible to behold and a scene never to be forgotten by the little group of settlers gathered there, where a few hours before the family had rejoiced in dreams of a future happy home. The remains \\^ere placed in a crude coffin made from boards secured from Captain Sander's mill. A\''hile these events were taking place. Homer Adkins, father of the murdered boy, was in Junction City in behalf of the settlers of the frontier, trying to impress upon the authorities the need of sending a militia to pror tect the settlers. The same day and not more than an hour prior to the raid, the home guards stationed at Fort Sibley reported they had scoured the country over aiKl assured the people there were no savages in the community. They were hidden in the tall grasses, awaiting an opportune time to make an assault. In the pockets of the Reverend Nels Nelson's pantaloons was an envelope containing $200 in greenbacks, which in their eagerness and excite- ment had fallen to the ground and was overlooked. The money thus left enabled the Reverend Nelson and his two sons to leave until the depre- dations had ceased, but Nels Nelson, Jr., with his wife and child refused to go, so he, with his brave companion, who had neither money nor clothes left them, remained to face the dangers of Indian warfare alone, and though they spent many sleepless nights and days of fear and uncertainty, the Indian troubles were practically ended, and peace and tranquility again sup- planted the dread of the Cheyennes on the war-path. The Nelsons put in a claim of $1,300, and received judgment for 1,000, but the claim was never paid. The government sent men to hear the testimony three different times, but owing to some technicality the claim was thrown out. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 55 LAWLESSNESS ON THE FRONTIER. Aside from the Indian depredations there were comparatively few irregularities during the early days in matters pertaining to lawlessness. The Conklin affair has been dwelt upon to some extent. On August 25, 1867, Richard Bump and Vincent Davis were assaulted on Upton creek, the former was killed, shot down by parties from the opposite side of the creek discharging a load of shot into the body of the man, whom it was supposed the assailants had taken for other parties who were peddling goods through the country, Davis was also wounded but not fatally, and taking the lines from his dead companion drove tO' the Elk creek settlement. The murderers were pursued, captured and brought back to Elk creek, where they were given a preliminary trial before J. N. Hagaman, the father of J. M. Hagaman, and were held for murder. But they were not permitted to live for further justice, but were taken from the custody of the sheriff and ere the night had been spent were dangling from the limb of a tree, dead. The consensus of opinion- was that these two Jewish peddlers, Ed- ward Zachareas and Richard Kennup, had been lying in wait for two other parties who also ha:d wares to sell, and mistook Bump and Davis, who were good citizens just returning from a buffalo hunt, for the men they had been lying in wait for, for two days. Money was their supposed object. MURDER OF JOSEPH NICHOLAS HAGAMAN, THE VENERABLE FATHER OF J. M. HAGAMAN. On July II, 1868, J. N. Hagaman was murdered by William Harman, After some litigation over a calf they had agreed to settle the matter of ownership by turning the cow into the herd on the principal that the calf would find its mother. J. N. Hagaman, who was herding the cattle on the Thorp place, had received orders to not let any of them go as the deputy sheriff, Bowen, had come to take them, and had deputized Harmon to go with him to attach the cattle in accordance with the decision of the court. An eye witness related to the author that after skirmishing a few moments while on their ponies, he saw Harmon ride up to a fence and pick up a club that almost seemed made for the occasion. His assailant struck Mr. Haga- man over the head with this weapon, killing him almost instantly. After a number of trials and the lapse of a number of years the case was dropped. Harmon with his wife lived at Manhattan and while he was supposed to be incarcerated had his freedom. The result of his crime going unpunished was a laxness of the law in those days, when people seemed a law of them- selves. SHOOTING AFFAIR AT GLASCO. The Carmichael murder case occurred at Glasco, Marsh 7, 1872. Car- 56 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. michael was a cattle man who lived at Abilene, but had been wintering stock near Glasco. He with his herder, Lewis, became involved in a quarrel with Da\id and Hamilton Dalrymple, over some feed, and met in Glasco to arbitrate the trouble, imbibed too freely and the result was a fight, with a deplorable sequel. David Dalrymple was shot through the heart and ex- pired instantly and Hamilton Dalrs'mple received a wound in the knee. Carmichael received wounds from which he died a week later. Lewis was shot through the neck, but recovered. .V bystander by the name of VVorden, received a gunshot wound in the shoulder. There have been few other crimes committed, but it is not the intention of the writer to go into details of those of more recent date, for the space is more beneficial as well as pleasing devoted to other subjects. FRONTIER HARDSHIPS. The beautiful valleys of the Solomon and the Republican, that are now teeming with a wealthy and prosperous people, during the early set- tlement of the country were the scenes of many distressing situations, par- ticularly is this true in the event of accident, sickness and death. And that prosterity may know more of their suiTering and the heroic courage and fortitude with which they endured these privations, the following incidents will be related : During the pioneer settlements the people were always on the alert for savages and devising plans of protection, and hence located claims in close proximity to each other. Li the spring of 1866 the Howards, from Missouri, and the Higgins, from Nemaha county, Kansas, joined the new settlements on the Solomon river and to add strength to their forces built a dougout on the claim of M. D. Teasley, the other settlers all combin- ing to assist in building a good sized home about 12x16 feet (large for that period) for the Howard family, the Lliggins preferring their tent. Mr. Howard, a Canadian by birth, had lost an arm in the lumber mills of that country and remained where the excavating was in course of pro- ceeding, while the other men and boys were cutting poles and logs to cover the structure. They had taken especial pains to secure a strong log for the ridge pole, all unconscious as they labored for their new neighbor, they were preparing a death trap for the doomed family. The tree selected had every appearance of being sound and wrs from sixteen to eighteen inches in diameter The hearts of the new dwellers were swelled with pride and happiness as they were preparing their first evening meal in the new quar- ters and were seated around the spread made on the earth of their new abode, innocently exchanging pleasantries. Mr. Howard had just arose from eating his supper and was in the act of lighting his pipe — ^the other members of the family, the wife, seven children and one grand child, were seated around the table — when, without a note of warning, with a crash the roof fell in upon them. Mr. Howard's neck was broken and he was badly cmshed otherwise, never speaking a word. Joseph, the third son, who was HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 57 about sixteen years of age, was mortally wounded, his chest and abdomen being crushed by the debris. Mrs. Howard was seriously but not fatally injured. A babe in her arms was badly stimned and for some time thought to be dead, but under the timely administrations of Mrs. Rhoda Teasley, the little one recovered from the shock. It seemed hours long 'drawn out to their terror-stricken neighbors before they could extricate the victims, but was probably the work of a few moments only. When Mrs. Howard was released, going to her son she asked : "Are you hurt, Joseph ?" He turned his eyes upon her face and replied : "Oh, mother, mother, mother." Those were the last words he spoke and died in a few minutes. The other inmates were unhurt. This event carried the deepest gloom into the midst of this little colony The father and son were consigned to the cold earth without a coffin, their bodies wrapped in a sheet, placed in a comfort and laid to rest. It would be impossible to describe the scene of desolation the borrowing details of this catastrophe made doubly so by the conditions surrounding the frontier settlers. This was the first burial in the old cemetery which is located about a half-mile south of the new one at Glasco. The accident occurred from a flav/ in the tree caused by a limb that had decayed and fallen off, leaving an aperture where water collected and had caused decay inside the log, which proved to be nearly a shell, but to all outside appearance was sound. A new dugout ^A'as built with extraordinary precaution and the unfoi'tunate family continued to live in the settlement. The Howards brought with them the first sheep introduced into the Solo- mon valley. ANOTHER BURIAL ON THE FRONTIER. In the autumn of 1867 the death of a little child occurred in the settlement, one of the first - in the Solomon valley. The family lived on Chris creek. East of them lived Wilson Mitchell. After the body of the little five-year-old girl, the pride of her fond parents, was made ready for burial, the kind, sympathizing friends began to devise some means of obtaining a coffin. Mr. Mitchell proffered his services and said if lumber could te provided he would make one. Mrs. Phoebe Sny- der was one of the good neighbors who was endeavoring to soften the grief of the mother by laying her offspring to rest as tenderly as the means at hand would allow, asked Mr. Mitchell if the boards covild not be planed. He replied alas, it was impossible for the lack of tools to work with. Mrs. Snyder, true to the instinct of a sympathizing mother, utilized her black silk apron along with some black silk handkerchiefs she gathered from the settlers, and neatly covered the home-made casket on the outside, and the inside with white muslin. Nails were driven in the lid, and after the body was removed to the wagon that was to convey the remains to their last rest- ing place, that the mother might not hear the doleful sound of the hammer, the nails were driven down while the sorrowing parents were yet in doors. 5 8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. This family were not so courageous as the Howards, but left the melan- choly scene soon afterward for their former eastern home. AN ATTEMPT TO CHANGE THE COUNTY LINE. Beginning with the northeast comer of Nemaha county, there is a line to the western boundary of the state making one continuous line for nearly all of what is called the northern tier of counties. Republican county being the only exception, the question naturally arises: Why this devi- ation ? We give in substance Mr. Rupe's version of the matter. When the boundary lines of Saline county were established, it being the first one or- ganized west of the sixth principal meridian, Col. Phillips was in the leg- islatture and being interested in making Saline the county seat of this new county, conformed the northern and southern lines so as to bring his town in the center. This left twelve townships of twelve tiers of townships be- tween Saline county and Nebraska, which had to be divided between three other counties, afterward known as Ottawa, Shirley and Republic. The latter came in for an equal distribution which gave her only fgur tiers, which is one less than the other northern tier counties with the exception of Brown and Donovan. The people of Republic county disliked the idea of being denied the territory. They demanded which justly belonged to them and consequently clamored for the extra tier. This could not be done without doing great injustice to Cloud county, (then Shirley,) or destroying a well established order of things. Mr. Rupe knew the people of Shirley county were dis- satisfied with the relative position of the count)^ lines, especially on Elk creek; so after his election he conceived the idea of di-\jiding the county exactly in the middle, east and west, throwing the north half into Republic and the south half into Ottawa county, making two out of three counties. Among the reasons he had for doing this was an imperfect idea of the future resources. He advanced the idea that the settlements would be mainly confined to the river bottom and creek valleys, the river running through but little over half the length of the county they were deprived of what he considered a great deal of the most valuable lands, and consequently thought they would always be a weak county. The plan of dividing the county would give about thirty miles more of the river bottom and do much in the way of addition to the taxable property. W^hile this would have made two rather large counties, he thought those townships situated on the divide would never amount to much, the land could never be utilized (and this opinion was shared by R. D. Mobley, of Ottawa) ; in his opinion these lands were a mere waste and the few settlers that were likely to attain, would be confined to the heads of the creeks and consequently these two counties would .subsequently have but the five tiers of townships, after all, and would give to them that which they stood HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 59 sorely in need of, more strength by way of taxable property, and their county would especially be one of the strongest in the west. This one of-the circumstances as existing then, will nO' doubt be amus- ing to the people of Colfax, Aurora, Nelson, Center, Arion and Summit townships, as well as the next tier south of them, as they reflect Mr. Rupe's ideas of their future growth. This bill failed for two reasons ; first, the western delegation was strongly opposed to obliterating one of their coun- ties; second, there was a petition from his own and Republic county against it, so he did not press it, but allowed it to die a natural death. The people of Republic county, however, admitted afterward they did not have a fair understanding of its nature. FIRST SETTLERS OF CLOUD COUNTY. The subject of the founder and first settler of Cloud county has oc- casioned much controversy and some discussion between these two old land- marks, J. B. Rupe and J- M. Hagaman, each of whom have contributed a series of history and early reminiscences through the columns of the Clyde Herald and Concordia Blade. Mr. J. B. Rupe has kindly submitted these "early recollections," and we will quote from them largely, as his statements are followed up with proofs and logic that are indisputable. It is conceded by his friends and the old settlers that his notes have been carefully gathered and are reliable \o the best of his knowledge and that to be obtained. During the year 1880, Mr. Rupe had personal interviews with Lew Fowler and J. M. Thorp and in accordance with the statements of Mr. Fowler, he and his brother and John and Harlow Seymore, came to what is now Cloud county, in July 1858. They were joined shortly aftenvard by a man named G. W. Brown, who was married and had his family with him. The Fowlers at this time were both single men. Shortly afterward they built the fatal "Conklin house," erected on their town site, which they called Eaton city. Some sod was turned on this ground and a well was partly dug, which was filled by dirt thrown from the track during the build- ing of the Kansas Pacific railroad. After looking up all the available history, the palm must be yielded to the Fowler brothers, as the first settlers. It leaves no room for doubt that to them the honor belongs. They built the first house in the county, turned the first sod and made the first attempt at digging a well. David Sheets located on Elm creek in April, i860, and left in July of the came year. To him has been given the credit of being the first settler. The Fowler broth- ers were here before and remained after Sheets left, and later enlisted in the United States sen-ice, made valiant . soldiers and immediately after the war returned, but located different claims and both were nominated for office in the autumn of 1866. Aside from this, they were Kansans, being in the state in 1854, and 6o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fought the border ruffians in the interest of the free state. Mr. Rupe after much research affirm, and we beheve correctly, "The Fowlers were the first white settlers in what is now Cloud county, and from the time of their set- tlement there has alwaj^s beai white settlers and that there never was a time when the three families spoken of by J. M. Hagaman, viz: Hagaman, Thorp and Fenski, were the only settlers in the county, as he has stated at various times." Mr. Rupe kindly concludes by saying he does not wish to pluck from Mr. Hagaman a single laurel that belongs to him, but history is history and nothing should go into it but facts. The following testimony of Peter Eslinger and his wife, Magdeline Eslinger. establishes a claim of the Fowler brothers as the first settlers be- yond a doubt : "We settled on Parson's creek, in Washington county, July 17, 1859. Lew and John Fowler. C. W Brown and Llarley Seymore were the first white settlers west of Peach creek, and then settled on Elk creek and person- ally know of their raising what has since been termed the "Conklin" House, and that they were the originators of the town site called Eaton city, where said house was built." In a letter from X. E. Eslinger is established another well grounded claim. He writes : "I came to Parsons creek July 17, 1859, and Peter Adams, who is now dead, with m3'self helped the Fowlers, Bro\Mi and Seymour to raise what is now known as the Conklin House. N. E. Eslinger." ^Vith the next settlers others followed but when the Fowlers came, not a single human habitation was to be found. They erected the first cabin, the first furrow of sod was turned by them and the first well was begun. They came in July, 1858, and through the summer months dwelt in a tent; winter came on and they were compelled to abandon their little canvas house and seek shelter in the warmer c|uarters of a dugout which they built on the banks of Elk creek. In the autumn of 1859, they erected their cabin and wintered there, making their second winter and still no other settlers. As an evidence of their abiding faith in the country, they laid out and regularly platted a town site. Sylvanus Furrows and one Starr were the sur-\'e}'ors : but misfortune overtook these early settlers and they were com- pelled to seek other employment. They left with the intention of returning and finally joined a Kansas regiment. Lew Fowler enlisting as a veteran. As evidence of their intention to return, John Fowler and James Will- iamson, a brother-in-law, came back immediately after the war, in the autumn of 1865, and located, but their claims had been taken by other parties. Lew Fowler was detained in the service. Soon as necessary preparations could be made they settled in Cloud county again in the spring of 1866. Others who followed these bold adventurers eaidy in the spring of i860, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 6i were Parks, Kearney, Thomas Heffirigton, who subsequently moved to Elk creek, PhiHp A. Kizer, Joseph Finney, John Allen, and John Sheets. Allen and Kizer were located near Lake Silbey, John Sheets on Elm creek and the others on Elk creek. Heffington died some time during the year 1862 or '63 and his remains lie buried in the cemetery near Clyde. They had been in the country six months and were voters — a voter is undoubtedly a settler. Parks sold his claim to Moses Heller and his son David for a yoke of steers. This claim is the old Heller farm, the one on which the Pomeroy house was built. Parks was living on this claim at the time, consequently he exercised one of the rights that belonged to a settler. This transaction took place in April, i860. Parks then moved on to a claim, the farm now owned by the Turners. Although his reputation was bad, Parks must have had intentions of becoming a regular settler. When Parks left this vicinity he went to Manhatten. During the sum- mer of 1 86 1, while ti'ying to cross the Republican river enroute to Elk creek, he was drowned. His body was found just across the river where Fred Herman's barn was located, and buried near there, by David Heller and one of the Scribner boys. When discovered his body was so nearly devoured by birds and wolves as to be scarcely recognizable. No lumber being obtainable, they were obliged to bury the body in an old tool chest. Jacob Heller settled on Elk creek, June 20, i860, on the claim after- ward taken by his brother, Israel Heller, preceding his father and brothers, Israel and David, from June until August of the same year. Jacob was accidentally killed while pulling a loaded gun from a wagon. He had just returned from Salt creek with "shakes" intended for his new house. His is the first death recorded in the county. When the Fowlers and Browns settled west of the 6th principal meridan, they were the only white settlers in this part of Kansas, marked by that line. It was then thought by the people of the eastern part of the state, scarcely necessary to give these counties boundary lines, much less organization; the country being thought desirable for no other purpose than grazing of the buffalo and the hunting grounds of the red man — a part of the great American desert. ELM CREEK SETTLEMENT. While the Elm creek settlement could not date its birth back so far at this time it was in a more prosperous condition. The people seemed to he favored with better opportunities for impro-\'ement. generally were men with families, more determined in the purpose of making their final homes. The settlers with their families who established their homes on Elm creek, July 15, i860, were J. M. Hagaman, wife and one child; J. M. Thorp, wife and six children ; August Fenskie, wife and one child. The result was they immediately went to work and within a short time, made more substantial improvements and were soon hauling their 62 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. surplus farm products to market. Among the settlers of this localit}- who followed the ensuing year were William and Fred Czapanski, with their fam- ilies, a Mr. Webber and George Wilson. In 1862 Zachariah Swearingen, Richard Coughlen, John David Robertson, Joseph Berry and their families joined the frontier settlement. From among this number the ranks of the Union army were swelled by the enlistment of Fred Czapanski, Jacob and Caleb (sons of J. M. Thorp), David Robertson and Joseph Berry. Some of these settlers had farms under a fair state of culti^'ation. These people are entitled to great credit for building a school house as early as 1864 or 1865, and a term of school was taught the same year. Miss Rosella Honey, a daughter of Randal Honey and now the wife of Matt \A' ilcox, was the teacher. To her fell the honor of having taught the first school in Cloud county, and one among the very first in the Republican valley, and this settlement may claim the honor of building the first school house; not of the most approved style, perhaps, being built of round cotton- wood logs about fourteen by sixteen feet in dimensions, dirt roof and terra finna floor, yet it was an acquisition in those days to the frontier. Rude as it was J. M. Thorpe is said to have declared he would not take $500 for what his children had learned in this humble seat of learning — a compli- ment to ]\Iiss Honey. It was in this community the first voting precinct was established which then consisted of the whole county. These enterprises were indicati\'e of thrift and determination well worthy of compliment. The dividing line be- tween these two settlements was the Republican river, hence we have "North side of the river" and "South side of the river." There were advantages enjoyed by the north side over the south as they had the military road lead- ing from Fort Riley to Fort Kearney. The government had built bridges over the principal streams and creeks which confined the public travel mainly to the north side. The mail route, the mills and the postoffices being on the north side, country stores \\'ould naturally follow in their wake. To avail themselves of these ad\-antages the people of the south side were often put to the incon- venience and at times great annoyance of crossing and recrossing the river, which had to be done- by fording. As an illustration, J. M. Thorpe and J. M. Hagaman \\ere enroute to mill and with their loaded teams had the misfortune to get one of them "stuck" in the m.ud. With water up to their, waists and large cakes of ice floating clown the river they unloaded their sacks of grain and carried them to land on their shoulders. Thev were a hardy people and endeavored to build up their locality, making it inviting with those conveniences necessary to permanent growth. This made them to a certain extent competitors to the north side of the river, which gave rise to jealousy between the two settlements, and the race between the two in the acquisition of political power was the cause of con- siderable crookedness in the affairs of the county during its organization. While the people of Elk Creek had the conveniences on their side, those HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 63 on Elm had the largest population and the most wealth. From the con- dition of the county lines the prospective future county seat was bound tc be located on their side of the river. These petty jealousies have long since died out, but these matters are referred to as a part of the history of the county. It will probably be of interest to all the old settlers to know that John D. Robertson, once the pioneer merchant of Sibley, is now president of the Interstate Bank of Kansas City, the only banking house in the locality of the stockyards. SOCIETY ON THE FRONTIER, AS SEEN BY J. B. RUPE. Some time in the latter part of June, 1865, after having been discharged from the service of "Uncle Sam," Mr. Rupe visited this somewhat historic country and expressed surprise at the apparent simplicity of its inhabitants. It had the appearance of beginning the world anew. Old and stiff formal- ities and fashionable society had not yet crept in. Strangers and every- body seemed welcome with that familiarity that made people feel their lot was cast in pleasant places. That state of feeling grew partially out of the fact that "Uncle Sam" had the kindness to make the proposition that by merely paying, a stipend and living on a quarter section for five years, we should receive a title in fee simple for the same and thus become one of the freeholders to these magnificent lands, had much to do with buoying new hopes that here one might settle down and grow up with the country. The jDeople were intelligent and those who came from the east expect- ing to build themselves up in public life on account of their superior intelli- gence, fotmd themselves much mistaken and left in the background. When Mr. Rupe arrived in Clay Center, his first trip up the Republican valley,, he heard some talk about celebrating the coming fourth of July. He was astonished that a country so thinly populated should observe that day, and secondly that a man among them capable of making a speech could be found. Considering it an impossibility, he resolved to see the result. He learned that Mr. Huntress, of Clay Center, was to be the orator of the day. Mr. Huntress was not an orator and Mr. Rupe wondered to him- self why he should undertake to deliver an address. The celebration took place near the residence of J. C. Chester, on Petes creek. A crowd to the number of two hundred or more were gathered and after the usual exchange of pleasantries common to such occasions, the meeting was called to order, and Mr. Huntress proceeded with his address, which was read from a carefully prepared manuscript. The production, manner, style, and delivery would have done honor to more pretentious lecturers. The crowd was orderly and well behaved, and all listened with marked attention. Mr. Huntress demonstrated the fact that talent was to be found e\en among frontiersmen. After this address a sumptions feast was prepared. A long table had 64 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. been previously arranged and all partook of the refreshments that were palatable enough to satisfy the most epicurean taste. After the inner man had been faithfully served and order again restored, one Mr. Bosman, was intro- duced by Mr. Huntress, who then addressed the people. It was not an elo- quent speech, neither was it fluent, but his happy style of illustration made it exceedingly interesting. His speech was rembered for years afterward and its illustrations and hints commented upon, which tell of its impression. Lastly, though far from being the least, the Reverend R. P. West delivered an oration. This affair miist have a final, and none could render it more effectually ; the cap sheaf was laid on by this somewhat eccentric man. This anniversary, following closely after the war, his theme was more on its causes and results. After paying a glowing tribute to our heroes and administering a severe rebuke to those who rebelled against the "dear old flag," he showed the tyranny of the Jeff' Davis crew, by reading a poem purporting to have been written by one of our starving soldiers in a rebel prisun to his mother. Being all of one political faith, much of these speeches were given to hurling anathemas at what was then called "copper heads." A Democrat at this time among them would have fared badly, so in this matter they had no feelings to save. After this very enjoyable fete, enroute back to Clay Center, Mr. Rupe spent the night at the home of Mr. Huntress, who expressed himself as being much elated over the success felt, congratulating upon the size of the crowd and boasted of how well the valley was beginning to be settled, inci- cfen tally remarliing, "neither were they all out." With this he began count- ing the families who remained at home, beginning with Republic and Shirley counties, then including Clay and a large part of Washington counties. Tift impression received was that it was a large neighborhood, and yet he talked of these families just as if they all lived around and about him. This was not the first celebration held in the valley, for there had been one the year before on Salt creek, in which R. P. West held forth as the orator of the day. THE CONKLINS. The citizens in a newly settled country are often compelled to resort to strenuous measures in order to protect themselver from lawlessness. This is exemplified in the event that razed to the ground the Conklin house, whose inmates were supposed to be, beyond a doubt, horse thieves and necessitated being dealt with accordingly. The county was yet unorganized and the one to which it was annexed was in poor condition for prosecuting crimi- nals, hence the settlers took the law into their own hands. Charles and Peter Conklin. with two sisters, during the year 1862, were living in their cabin on the old town site of Eaton city, afterward owned by Darnel Mcintosh. They were known to be regtilar horse thieves con- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 65 nected with an organized band operating in a line, with Fort Kearney as the probable terminus. One of their stations was said to be a point on Wetheral's creek, and another at the "big bend" of the river. The horses stolen were generally supposed to have l^een taken from Missouri, rather than from the people along the border, but the settlers from Washington, Clay and Republic counties were generally aroused. That there were exaggerated reports there can be no doubt, one of which was that they were guerrillas. The latter was not generally believed, but in all probability was put in circulation by a few of the leading spirits in order to increase the feeling; the most prominent of whom was a man by the name of Rose, who lived on Wild Cat creek, and Fox, the founder of Clifton. The latter felt a little interested for suspicions were being formed that he was a man not without a blemish. The Conklins had it in their power to unveil the villiany of Fox, and such a man under existing circumstances would be unrelenting in his persecutions and yet he seemed to have much influence. The number of citizens that gathered together with the determination to make short work of these boys was thirty. Luckih' for them, however, a rumor of this affair reached them and they escaped, thus averting a crime. A majority of the mob were bent on vengeance and determined that this house should be pulled down, and the two sisters with an orphan child living with them were left homeless. In justice to the settlers of this county, it can be said they voted against this last shameful act. While the house was being torn down, Peter and Charlie Conklin were lying concealed a short distance away and witnessed the whole perform- ance. The next thing was the search for the fugitives, but after scouring the country about, the exploration proved a failure. Had they been dis- covered there might have been several lives forfeited. One of the Conklins afterward reported that during this search one of the number was within a few yards of them. Upon being asked what he would have done had he been found, replied that he did not know exactly, but in all probability would have lived, inasmuch as he had two loaded revolvers. In order to escape punishment, they repaired to Leavenworth, where they enlisted in the United States service. They were followed to Leaven- worth and were demanded of the military authorities, but their persecutors were told they would not be surrendered under any charges short of blood, so this ended the affray and a safe asylum had been found. The cabin pulled down over their heads, they were left with nothing to shelter them from the inclemencyof the weather but a sheet stretched over a pole with no one to befriend them, no kindly hand to administer comfort, but were compelled to endure the frowns of aji excited and prejudiced public, and pointed out as being the sisters of horse theives. During this time they were drenched by a severe rain storm. They were shown no mercy under the pretext that the brothers, out of sympathy, would come to their relief, thus making an opportunity to prosecute the intentions of the mob. 66 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. In order to show up the character of one of these "ring leaders," the substance of a speech dehvered by Dehlah, one of these unfortunate women, is gi\en This was probably the first public speech delivered in the county. After the house was torn down this woman, naturally feeling indignant and wishing to unburden her mind, and knowing the character of one of the mob, addressed something like the following language to James Fox : "You old thief, I will give you a piece of my mind. You are too cowardly to do any stealing for yourself, but want others to do it for you and then divide the spoils. Because my brothers would not go into any such arrangement with you, and fearing you might be caught in your thieving inclinations, you have incited this crowd against them. They are much better than you are and the sooner the people find it out the better." This was rather a short address, but much too pointed for Fox. He hung his head, his countenance bearing the impress of conviction. To show how prophetic she was, this same Fox after leaving the county toured the state of Missouri in the cowardly profession of a bushwhacker. One of the Kansas militia, with whom Fox had been the means of stirring up unfriendly family relations, says the last he saw of him was his body shot full of bullet holes. These two unfortunate victims, the Conklin sisters, were turned out of doors to suffer indefinitely. No one must be allowed to move them to their friends, for the decree of the mob was, "lynch anyone that attempts it." The agony of mind and body must have been intaise, not knowing what future was in store for them, perhaps starvation. This fearful sus- pense \\-as continued for about t\\-o weeks; finally the sympathy of J. M. Hagaraan, who denounced the outrage of tearing down tlie house, became aroused to the extent that he yoked up his cattle and took them to a place of safety among their friends. This act of courage on the part of Mr. Hagaman should always redound to his credit. The Conklin affair was one of the most outrageous tliat ever took place in the county, and that good men had a hand in it has its excuse in the statement made in the beginning of this article.. This house was the first built on the town site of Eaton city ; was a good hewed log building covered with shakes and considered at the time a very good one, as the most of them were covered with dirt. If this first house was standing great importance would be attached to it. A part of the history connected with this affair partakes of a romantic nature. As usual in such incidents, a woman was connected with the case. Had it not been for a little love affair these boys would have met a tragical death. \Miile the bob was in course of preparation great effort was made to prevent the Conklins from knowing anything about their movements. The whole success depended upon this and various opinions were given as to the myster>' of their notification. Some accused Uncle Heller of having delivered it. Had he done so it would have been a good deed, but had it been known it is hard telling what his fate might have been. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 67 Pete Conklin was paying his attentions to a young girl in the settle- ment, though under a strong protest by her parents. She served him well at this important stage of the game, and could claim the indebtedness of prolonging two lives. At the time of the disclosure, she, with the two Conklin boys and Emanuel Cline were at Uncle Heller's, when Mr. Cline observed the following. The, girl remarked ; "Pete, come here, I want to tell you something." Pete obeyed, after which he remarked in an excited manner, "Charlie, come here, I want to tell you something;" Soon after- ward one of the boys with a revolver in hand approached Mr. Cline in an excited way, so much so that he began to fear that he was doomed, and remarked," the first d — d man -that passes that bridge is a dead man." So this little episode shows how they got their information. Mr. Cline, fearing that they might put the threat into execution, stationed himself near the bridge to warn the mob of danger. When they approached and saw him standing by himself, and not knowing his business, for about all they could think of at that time was horse thieves, they arrested him; but after a brief explanation he was released and the project of giving fight at the bridge was given up. EXIT OF THE SETTLERS IN 1 864. The year 1864 was one of the most eventful in Cloud county's history. The savages were making war on the whites in Minnesota and thousands of men and their families of innocent women and children were bein£ murdered. There had been depredations committed in the southwestern part of Nebraska, and many of the ranchmai fell victims to the murderous tomahawk. The carnage was carried on, on this side of Fort Kearney, the enemy consisting of forces, that had they been so disposed, might have wiped the settlements out of existence within sight of Fort Riley, before they could have been checked; the settlers being so few and in such defenceless condition, it struck terror to the hearts of the people along the border of the frontier. Consequently the appearance of Indians in August of 1864, was followed by great fear and consternation, and a general flight or con- centrating of the fe^v settlers scattered along the creeks. These facts staring them in the face, it is no wonder they should become alarmed. They could do nothing better than to congregate at Clay Center. All the settlers in the county, with the exception of Moses Heller, Israel Heller, Abram Cole, Andrew Smith, and possibly j. D. Robertson, left for this purpose. Conrad Myers, of Republic county, refused to go. R. P. West was 'at this time enroute to Fort Kearney and was not among the number. These are perhaps the only parties who remained at home. Before R. P. West started for Fort Kearney he induced Miss Mary Morley (now Mrs. John B. Rupe) to stay with Mrs. West during his absence. Late in the afternoon they received a message from Captain Schooley to be in readiness to start with him and his family to Clay Center. They took a different view 68 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of the situation, and after consulting together conckided to risk their chances at home. About midnight they received another message without option. They were told if they did not go willingly they would be taken by force, consequenth they joined the party at Captain Sehooley's and they started with about all of the Salt creek settlers before daylight for Clay Center. G. \V Glover, at that time living on Petes creek, could not for some reason get started with the rest, and remained one night longer. The next morning he yoked up his cattle and started, but while on the way, leisurely driving along' eating melons, they were met by a dozen or fifteen men who had started to look for them, under the false alarm that they were murdered and their house burned ; a rumor started by Mr. Crop and family, who had passed the day previous, and possibly imagined they saw a smoke and as they said smelled burning feathers. Mr. Crop was too much alarmed to stop, but went hastily on to Manhattan. After remaining a while at Clay Center, the settlers fell back to Clifton. Fear were entertained for R. P. \Vest"s safety, but he escaped unharmed. Returning home he found no one there and as the next Sabbath \\as his day for preaching at Clifton, he hastily repaired to that point, where he found Mrs. West. This was a joyful occasion, pleasing to Mr. West for two reasons, first, the meeting of his wife; second, he had the fugitives to preach to, which Occasion he gladly improved, taking for his text the appro- priate passage found in Isaiah i :ig, which reads as follows: "If ye be willing and oljeilient ye shall eat the good of the land." After discoursing from this text to the very best of his ability, he concluded with the following remarks : "And now my friends let me say this is our land and if we are obedient we shall eat the fat of the land, but you must quit stealing the Indians' traps and ponies and quit poisoning their dogs. Do this and my word for it, and 1 am sure I am laacked by the word of God, there is not enough thieving, murderous red skins in the western world to run us away from our homesteads. So now my suffering fellow frontiersmen let me say my faith is in God and my home is on Salt creek, they will find us there." .Vt the conclusion of these earnest and practical remarks, Captain Sshooley came out of his tent and begged permission to say a few words. Leave being granted by the preacher, the captain spoke as follows : "Ladies and gentlemen, I \\-ant every man and bov that belongs to my company to come in tomorrow morning at nine o'clock and get a gun and ammunition, for I believe in fighting Indians with lead and not with prayers." Then, Reverend \^'est said : "That's right, captain, keep yotir powder dry, but trust the Lord." And then the congregation was dismissed. Reverentl West then proceeded to Clyde, where he ministered to a few kindred spirits, then accompanied by his devoted wife started for their home on Salt creek, singing as they went: "There is a spot to me more dear than native dale or mountain, etc." The}- arrived safely home, where through all the trials of the settlement of this country they could be found ready at all times to feed HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 69 the hungry, spiritually or materially, clothe the naked or give chase to the red man. A consultation was held at Clifton and a location decided upon for building a fort. They chose a place near G. D. Brooks' claim. This fort or block- house, was called by way of derision. Fort Skedaddle numljer three. Clay Center being number one and Clifton number two. In the meantime a scouting party under command of Captain Schooley, went out as far as \Mrite Rock, but finding no Indians, the majority of them returned, thus making good the celebrated words of Mrs. Schooley to the wives of those who went: "You needn't be alarmed, the captain jvon't take them intu danger." G. D. Brooks, J. M. Hagaman, J. C. Chester and others, wen'. much farther and satisfied themselves there need be no further immediate fears in regard to Indians, so things gradually quieted down and for a time went on peaceably. ORGANIZATION OF THE MILITIA. Company C, Seventeenth Regiment, Kansas State Militia, was organized early in 1864. Of this Colonel J. M. Schooley was captain; J. M. Hagaman, first lieutenant: J. C. Chester, second lieutenant; Daniel Myers, third lieu- tenant and G. D. Brooks, ensign. In commenting upon this militia, Mr. Rupe says : "As is stated there were thirty privates in this company. He thinks they were heavily officered, if Mr. Brooks was considered a com- missioned officer, there would be one to every six men. Who ever heard of a third lieutenant? And for ensign, would have to go to the unabridged dictionary to find it, 'an old extinct commissioned office that required the carrying of the flag,' now performed by the color bearer." He further savs, "so far as numbers were considered, no fault could be found, but the man- ner in which this militia was composed made it very inefficient. How they happened to choose such a man as Schooley for captain can only be accounted for on the ground that he was a braggart bombast, and fooled the people. His remarks after the sermon of R. P. West revealed his character. He should have been elected ensign and left at home for the want of a flag to carry. The old settlers all seemed to regard him as a coward." Had G. D. Brooks been commissioned captain, the result would have been different, as all who knew him could well attest his great courage ; but he was given a mere nominal position. Mr. Hagaman and J. C. Chester were also men to be relied upon, in times of danger none were bra\er, and the same might be said of Daniel Myers. TOWNSHIP ORGAN IZ.\TI0N. October 4, j866, there were five municipal townships created as fol- lows: Elk, Sibley, Shirley, Buf¥alo and Solomon. On September 6, 1871, petitions were presented and the township of Plainfield, which included that 6 yo HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. part of range 2, south of the Republican river and north of the center of town 7 and the township of Lincohi, which included that part of range 3 and 4 south of the Republican, north of the center of the town 7, and east of the center line of range 4, were organized. During the interim from 1866 to 1871 the line between Elk and Sibley townships was changed to the line tetween ranges 2 and 3. ELK TOWNSHIP. Elk township is -located in the northeast coi'ner of the county and is bounded on the south by the Republican river, which furnishes excellent water power. In this locality an abundance of red sandstone is found with- in a short distance of Clyde. The land consists' of a rich sandy loam, which yields immense crops of grain and melons; the latter growing to gigantic proportions. (See Clyde's Carnival.) Elk creek intersects this township from north to south ; its confluence with the Republican being in the vicinity of Clyde. This is one of the best watered localities in the county. Good water can be found at a depth of from eighteen to fifty feet. Clyde, one of the most flourishing little cities in northwest Kansas, is situated principally on the west side of Elk creek and just north of the Republican river, which touches near the city limits. The original township of Elk comprised all the territory north of the Republican river and west to range 2. The town- ship was settled in 1859 ^7 John and Lew Fowler, one Brown and Harlow .Seymour. SOLOMON TOWNSHIP. Solomon comprises 34,560 acres of land and is one of the most pros- perous townships in the county. The Solomon river enters from near the center of the west boundary line and winds through the township to the southeast corner, furnishing fine water power. One of the best mill sites in the county is at Brittsville, on the Solomon river, owned and operated by Long Brothers. (See sketch.) About fifty per cart of the ground is bottom land, and about ten per cent is forest timber. This is also a fine stock raising- country and one of the most prosperous farming districts in the state of Kansas. Solomon township originally extended across the entire southern part of the county and was thirty miles in length by nine to twelve miles in width. The first settlers were John Hillhouse, Robert Smith and James Hendershot, in January, 1865. In April of the same year H. H. Spaulding and M. D. Teasley came, while others followed closely during the first and second years following. SIBLEY TOWNSHIP. Sibley being bounded on the south and west by the serpentine course of the Republican river, is very irregular in outline. It has an area of thirty- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. li five square miles; is ten miles long east and west, with a breadth of from little more than one to five miles. Its greatest breadth is across the center and nearly opposite the city of Concordia. It is bounded by the Republican county line on the north. About one-fifth of the surface is bottom land, one-fifth hills or spurs of the divide and the remaining three-fifths second bottom. Lake Sibley, a description of which is given elsewhere, is situated in this township. All the territory north of the Republican river to the Republi* county line, and west from range 2 to the west line of the conuty, was included in the first creation of the township. SHIRLEY TOWNSHIP. Shirley township originally extended from the county's east line, west to the center of range -3, and south to the center of town 7. Shirley is bounded on the north by the Republican river, on the east by Clay county and extends south of Colfax and ay est to the lines of Nelson and Lawrence townships. Elm creek intersects its southwest corner and flows in a northery direction through the entire length of the township, and empties into the Republican a short distance north of the little town of Ames. Beaver and Dry creeks run through the eastern part of the township. The inhabitants are composed almost entirely of French people, most of whom are from Canada and Kankakee, Illinois. St. Joseph, the Catholic town, founded by Father Mollier, is -situated one mile east and one mile south of the center of the township. BUFFALO TOWNSHIP. As an original township, Buffalo comprises all the land west of Shirley township and north of the line between towns 6 and 7. It was reorganized July 2, 1872, and some of its former territory left unorganized. But during the same session Summit township was created and included the part left out by Buffalo. Dr. D. B. Moore was appointed its first trustee. Buffalo township is partially bounded on the north by the Republican river and is very irregular in outline. Buffalo creek enters the township from the west and flows almost due east across the township into the Republican river. The southern part is drained by White's creek; a tributary of Buffalo, and Wolf creek, of the Republican ri\'er. This is one of the most extensive wheat growing townships in the county, and the farmers are almost univers- ally prosperous. MEREDITH TOWNSHIP. On January 2, 1872, this part of Solomon situated east of the line between ranges 3 and 4, was organized into a new township and given the name of Meredith. George W. Carver was appointed the first trustee. It 72 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY,. KANSAS. is located in the center of the southern tier of townships, and the land is watered by First Pipe creek, which runs the entire length of the township from north to south. A more beautiful country or more prosperous people than the inhabitants in this locality does not exist in this part of the state. John Alurphy was the first white child bom in the township. GRANT TOWNSHIP. When -the new board of county commissioners assumed their duties on January 8, 1872, the first petition for new townships that came up before them was town 5, range 5, which was organized and named Grant, for General Grant, then President of the laiited States. J. F. McCracken was the first trustee. G. W. Johnson and Reginald Reed were the first to take up claims in this township. Three valleys center near the middle of Grant township, which lie in the northeast corner of the county. Buffalo creek, Salt ?\Iarsh and the Big Cheyenne, and Consequently has but a small per cent of upland. The great salt marsh of four thousand acres, lies partly in the northern portion of the township. There are many Danes in this vicinity, all of them prosperous and well-to-do citizens. This township has the largest per cent of wheat of any in the county. COLFAX TOWI'TSHIP. The second petition, and following that of Grant, was town 7, range i, which became Colfax township, named in honor of the vice-president of the United States, then in office. W. E. Campbell was the first trustee. George Ginter was the first settler. Colfax is situated in the southern part of the county and is bounded on the west by Aurora and on the south by Starr. Both Grant and Colfax townships were organized April 11, 1872. The surface of the country in Colfax township, is the finest in the county; a beautiful undulating prairie. MuUoerry, the principle stream, runs diagonally through the township. It is a small creek, but affords water very nearly all the year, and along its banks are numerous springs. ARION TOWNSHIP. The following autumn after Grant and Colfax were organized, Arion township was inaugurated. Its poetical name is significant of "Evening Star." Aurora township was admitted at the same time and was given the musical name of Aurora, which means 'Alorning Star." Arion is the township west of the center of the county. It is nine miles scjuare. The greater part of the land is rolling prairie. The small valleys are along the creeks and extending back and away from them, is considerable tableland. Wolf and Coal creeks intersect Arion on the east, the west branch of Wolf creek on the west, and all furnish considerable timber. William Gilmore was the first trustee. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 7 3 NELSON TOWNSHir. On October 25, 1872, the Nelson township organization was effected by the people of town 6, range 2, who presented a petition. This left only that portion of town 5, range 2, south of the Republican river in Plainfield township, and as that did not constitute the legal apportionment required, it was attached to Elk, and the township "Plainfield" -was extinguished. The surface of Nelson is drained by Elk creek. LAWRENCE TOWNSHIP. On October 25, 1872, the citizens of town 5 and range 2, petitioned for separation from Elk township and was organized as a township called "Lawrence," in honor of L. D. Lawrence, its earliest settler, who came there in 186^. R. F. Clarke was the first trustee. It is one of the northern tier of townships and is bounded on the east by Elk, on the south by Nelson, and on the west by Sibley. The surface is composed of about three-fourths river and creek bottom land. There is but a small per cent of upland and all the ground is tillable. The Republican river runs through the town- ship and is fed from the south by Plum and Oak creeks and on the north by Salt, Upton and Little Upton creeks, and all find their confluence with the Republican river in Lawrence township. The largest of these streams, Salt creek, is fed by numerous springs and furnishes living water the entire year. It is spanned by a one hiuidred foot bridge. The coal fields adjacent to Minersville, lie in the northwestern portion of Lawrence township, and just over the line of Sibley. The inhabitants in this vicinity are composed of a large portion of Danes and Swedes, who are thrifty, enterprising citiz zens and have made for themselves good homes. LYON TOWNSHIP. This township, originally a part of Solomon, was detached April 7, 1872, and organized under the name of Fowler, in honor of its earliest set- tler ; but a month later, was changed to Lyon, in honor of General Nathaniel Lyon. J, IL Neal was the first trustee. It includes town 8 and the south half of town 7, in range 4. It is nine miles in length north and south, by six miles in width, and contains fifty-four square miles. It is bounded on the north by Arion, on the east by Center and Meredith. Ottawa county on the south and Solomon township on the west. The larger part of tJie township lies in the fruitful Solomon valley and the remainder on the divide between the Solomon and Republican river valleys. This is one of the leading live stock growing townships in the county. Chris creek drains the western part, Mortimer the central, and Yockey the eastern portion; all tributaries of the Solomon, which intersect the ' southwest corner of the township. Magnesia limestone in inexhaustible quantities is found in this locality, and is used extensively for building purposes. 74 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. CENTEK TOWNSHIP. The name is suggestive of its location and the geographical center of the county is very near that of the township. It was organized May 23. 1873. Zacariah Swearinger was its first settler. The long divide between the Solomon and Republican of this highland is a plateau ranging from one to three miles in width, and numerous fine farms are found there. South of this upland the country is quite hilly and broken, as is also the western portion; however a rich limestone loam prevails throughout and yields a bountiful crop of grain. The whole surface of these highlands is under- laid with magnesia limestone. Bituminous coal has also been discovered, hut not extensively mined. Both branches of Oak creek take their rise in this township; there is also what is termed the "Middle Branch." IJNCOI.N TOWNSHIP. Lincoln township, wherein the city of Concordia is situated, was organ- ized January 3, 1873, and contains twenty-four square miles of land. It comprises the north half of town six and south half of range three west, and all that part of town five lying south of the Republican river. Alx)Ut one-half of its surface is rich bottom land. The eastern part is drained by Oak creek and the western by Lost creek, both traversing the township north to the Republican river. The Rqwblican river forms the boundary line on the north, between Lyon and Sibley townships. It is bounded on the east by Lyon and Nelson, on the south by Center, and on the west by Buffalo. STARR TOWNSHIP. Starr township includes town eight, range one, and is the extreme south- eastern township of the county. Its creation was effected October 6, 1873. James T. Brook was elected trustee. The township is drained by Chapman creek and its tributaries which flow in a southwesterly direction. Chapman creek is fed by many springs, affords water the year around, and is also skirted by timber. OAKLAND TOWNSHIP. Oakland was organized Ju!^ 10, 1874, and completed the present list of townships in Cloud county. It occupies town eight, range two west. By the division, J. L. B. Stanton, who had been elected trustee of Meredith, was taken into the new township and became its first trustee. The first families to settle in this township Avere J. E. Burkhart, Isaac Smith and A. J. Mc- Allister. It is located in the southern tier of townships and is second in number from the east line of. the county. The surface is drained by the east branch and middle branch, tributaries of Pipe creek. The people of Oak- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 75 land to^v^^ship are well-to-do and rank with the most prosperous of th'e county. As the undulating prairie sweeps away from some of the high elevations in Oakland township, a fine view of the Solomon valley is given, presenting one of the finest landscapes of the entire country. An extended history of Aurora township appears in another part of this history. Prior to 1866, the towns of Clyde, Concordia, Jamestown, Glasco and Miltonville were unknow and where they now stand, the lithe-limbed deer and antelope gamboled, herds of buffalo tramped and the red man reveled in wild freedom, while the prairie grass rolled and tossed in the breezes like a vast green sea. The early settlers of Cloud county evinced confidence in its future and backed their belief with evident sincerity, looking forward with an eye of hope and faith to building homes for themselves in the new western country. The vast sums of money that have been expended to build schools, the erec- tion of their beautiful court house, the expenditure for pavements and beauti- fying the cities, all evidence the fact that her citizens possess high moral stamina. The many charming residences with their beautiful green lawns and shade trees exhibit a pride that is highly gratifying, and even the lowli-- est homes are not without these luxuries. 1866 A NEW ERA IN KANSAS. The year 1866, following the close of the Rebellion left many soldiers foot loose, many of whom were discharged in this state and naturally sought the broad prairies of Kansas. Among this number are a few of the old settlers at the present time, and some others who date their coming during this year. In 1866 the county was organized and the original town com- pany of Clyde formed, making this an interesting period in the history of Cloud county. The country at this time was in a crude state. Where Clyde now stands, "Uncle Heller" and his son David lived. in a crude log house. They had built a new one which was required as a store-room for the few goods of Chauncey Cowell and Charles Davis, which had just been brought into the country. The next house was erected on the west side of the creek — a cabin iDuilt of round logs with a dirt roof occupied by Joseph Berry. The next building was similar in architecture and occupied by Tom Hay. The next house was built by J. B. Rupe and occupied by Andrew W. Smith. Still further west, on what is known as the William Crammer farm, lived Ed Neely. The Cline residence stood on the Kennedy farm, later owned by Reverend Corn- forth. Israel Heller lived in a cabin adjoining his father's on the east. This was the extent of what might be termed the Elk Creek settlement. All the land under cultivation at that time in this community was ten acres on the Heller farm, about the same amount on the Donald Mcintosh claim, which was probably broken by the Conklins, and fi\e acres on the 76 HISTORY OF CLOITD COUNTY, KANSAS. claim of Ed Neely. This may seem a poor exhibit for a settlement which had been in existence six years, Init there were continual drawbacks to its advancement, constant exposure to the outbreaks of the savages and the great drouth of i860. Notwithstanding the small population three of their number enlisted in the army : Joseph Berry, Emanuel Cline and David Hel- ler, and nothing was done by way of improvement on their claims, Cline, while in the army, had his cabin torn down and burned for camp fire by a portion of the Eleventh Kansas, who were passing through this section. These drawbacks had a discouraging effect on new comers, who, finding innumerable obstacles to surmount, would become disheartened and leave, consequently let no one be hasty in condemning the sturdy old pioneers who bravely withstood the trials and hardships of frontier life for this seemingly poor showing, but rather wonder wdiy they did not all return to the land of their nativity, where a substantial existence 'could be obtained without the dangers incident to the frontier. The early settlers were neighbors even when thirty, forty or fifty miles apart. Tor several years in this small neighborhood there was but one mowing machine, and that did duty for all. Jolm Coiy was the lucky owner, and usually had to go about thirty miles from home to some of his nearest neighbors to mow. Among these were the Clovers and Nyes, on Petes creek; Cor\'s, Van Nattas, Myers and Wests, on Salt creek; Haga- mans, Thorpes and Randal Honey, on Elm creek; Hellers, Neelys, Morleys, B. V. Honey, Coopers, Seaburys and Chesters, on Elk creek. Even some could be mentioned who lived at Sibley and White Rock that helped to con- stitute the settlement. These are what might be called the primitive settlers of the Republican valley. Of these John Cory has been the most successful so far as this world's goods is concerned. SCHOOLS IN 1866. During the year 1866, the Elk creek settlers began agitating the im- portant subject of establishing schools. It was no uncommon thing at that time to hear the old bachelors denounced as a perfect nuisance, for next to the Indians they seemed the most despised, and when he came and took up a claim, they rightfully considered his action as so much against the prospect of schools, and an injury to the growth and prosperity of the coun- try: but emigration was coming in and some action in regard to schools must be had. Early in the spring of that year a meeting was called at "Uncle" Heller's for the purpose of divising means for building a school house. "Uncle" Heller was chairman and Joseph Berry secretary. Belie\-ing that Elk Creek would become an important point eventually, they decided to build a "good one," the size to be sixteen by twenty-two feet; material, hewed logs, dirt roof and cottonwood floor. Each settler signed four dollars apiece, \\-hich was to be paid in work and the meeting was adjourned. To the people of Cloud county to-day it might seem a house HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 77 of such dimensions and material could soon be built; but much hard strug- gling and parleying ensued before this house was completed. There were more vexations connected with it than the present magnificent building that graces the city of Clyde to-day. The building was commenced with the expectation of ha^'ing it ready for school in the early summer months, but the 14th of July had arrived before they were ready for the "raising." The question was, how this latter event could be brought about. A plan was happily hit upon by F. B. Rupe. The settlers all turned out, and connected with the raising, a picnic at "Uncle" Heller's; an enjoyable affair, attended with a feast, consisting of all the luxuries the country afforded, but the house still lacked much of being completed. It was necessai-y to have a roof, floor and paint. These seemingly insurmountable difUculties were eventually overcome, but not until some time in the winter. A Doctor Rogers was employed to teach the first school, whose services as an instructor amounted to nothing. Sometimes he would be in the room during school hours, again he would not. He would tell his pupils to re- main and study while he went over to the store and read the newspaper, talked politics, or discussed the ordinary topics of the day. The result can be imagined; romp and play the order of exercise. Nevertheless, to this man must be given the credit of being their first school teacher, though by many he was thought to be unequally balanced. The school was taught by subscription. This building served not only as a school house, but as a public meet- ing house for all other occasions, even court business for the county, the commissioners meeting in it to transact their business. Dirt would often come rattling down through the roof in piles upon the writing desk, yet it was the best in the county, and continued to be until their frame school house was built. It was in this cabin that Clyde's gifted and witty Judge Borton made his first law speech to the "unsophisticated natives," before a board of county commissioners, where a man had been arraigned on a charge of having made his listment of taxable property to the assessor too small. The jvidge defended and cleared him. On April 30, 1866, the log house formerly owned by Herman & Davis as a store building was raised. Frank Rupe says the first drunkenness in Clyde occurred on this occasion. This house was erected by Cowel & Davis, the first merchants of the settlement. There are several persons now living in Clyde who assisted in the raising of this house, viz : W. H. Page, J. B. Rupe, F. B.Rupe and U. J. Smith, all of whom doubtless remember the good old-fashioned dinner that greeted them at "Uncle" Heller's. Although erected before the formation of the town company, this build- ing might be considered the beginning of Clyde and the first house built in the county crowned by a shingle roof, and first to be decorated on the inside by what was then considered a splendid lot of goods by Cowel & Davis, and within its walls W. S. Herman and Hugh Kirkpatrick commenced their 78 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. career as clerks. This building was also distinguished as being the birth- place of the Republican Valley Empire, published by H. Buckingham. The first number was issued on Tuesday, May 31, 1870. Great interest was manifested by the citizens of Clyde when the first number of this paper was being printed. The emigraiits who were coming in by hundreds, as they passed the office with their household effects on a prairie schooner mani- fested great sin^prise at seeing a press in full blast so far in the wilderness. This historical building was burned to the ground on September 22, 1882. An article contributed by Mrs. Alice L. Bates to a volume on the schools of Kansas is as follows : In tlie month of May, 1866, a party of fii\'e might have been seen wend- ing their way from the "Elm Creek settlement," where Clyde is now situated, to the present town of Washington, Kansas, then only one log hut. The member of the party in whom we are interested was Miss Rosella Honey. who was seeking Mr. Horfine, superintendent of Washington county, and also of Shirley county (now Cloud), for the purpose of taking a teachers examination. There were no roads, only the paths of the buffalo or the dim trail made by an occasional wagon. At last darkness overtook them and they lost their \vay. There was not a glimmer of a friendly light to beckon them on their way, yet on they went. At last the barking of a dog told them they were not alone in that region. A rude cabin was found, the inmates aroused and information received that they were several' miles out of their way; also that the superintendent had gone to Junction City to mill. The journey had been made in vain and must be repeated. Imagine the disappointmait of the party, especially Miss Honey, who was anxious, as teachers usually are, to take examinations. The second attempt was more successful. The examination consisted of a few oral questions in arithmetic, grammar and geography. More than this, she read a paragraph in the news- paper and wrote her name. Compare this with two days' continuous writ- ing after four weeks' hard work in the institute, and most teachers will con- clude it was something to have lived in the "good old times." The next month Miss Honey began the first school in what is now Cloud county. It was known as the Elm Creek school, taught in a log house, the typical early school house of the county. There were neither doors nor windows; only "logs left out." The floor was kindly provided by nature, the seats were logs split in halves with pegs, which served as legs driven in the convex side. Desks and blackboards there were none. Among the distinguished visitors during the term was a tribe of Otoe Indians. There \\as an enrollment of eighteen pupils and for teaching these "young ideas how to shoot," Miss Honey received eight dollars per month. The term was three months in length and the last day was celebrated by the marriage of the teacher to AV. M. A\^ilcox. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 79 FIRST SCHOOL IN CONCORDIA. To Milo Stevens, who has been a resident of Clyde for many years, belongs the distinction of having taught the first school in the embryo city of Concordia. He received a salary of twenty dollars per month. CLAIM JUMPING. Claim jumping was indulged in to some extent in the early settlement. An unprincipled fellow would often select a claim and either contest the right himself, or call to it the attention of an eastern emigrant, who could rely upon the claim jumper swearing to all that was necessary, proceed to consult a lawyer, and get out papers for the contest. This character of individual became so common that in several localities he was visited by a committee provided with "hemp" and other paraphernalia necessary in the event that he did not make an exit. He usually complied with the law laid down upon this occasion. THE DUGOUT. The dwelling of the homestead settler on the frontier known as "dug- outs," were temporary structures, the memory of which is fast fading into oblivion. Hastily constructed by the pioneers for the immediate shelter and comfort they afiforded their families until time and circumstances would permit of- more substantial residences being erected. These temporary homes are almost entirely a thing of the past, few remaining as a reminder of those primitive days. Occasionally one is left standing for. the sake of "Auld Lang Syne," as it were, and few are still inhabited; but these latter were built in more modem architecture, with windows, floors and are comfortable habitations. Li driving over the coun- try the author has found the tumbled down remains of several of these in- teresting boroughs, for many of them were little less than a hole in the ground. Now and again a rock wall or front is still standing (against some hillside) that did duty as a settler's domicile and could these walls talk they would tell many a tale of life on the frontier, commingling of lonelines's, sorrow, pain, hardships and suffering", often times made lighter, perhaps, by happy visions of a future home. A description of these relics are not given for the past or present, but that the coming and future generations may know the design and style of residence that prevailed among the home- stead pioneer. The site was generally selected on a hillside or base of a ridge. Walls were usually made by digging out the earth, and were walled with rock when obtainable, or a layer of logs or poles. The excavation was ordinarily about twelve by fifteen feet, with a large fork set in the ground at each angle, and poles were laid across with a ridge pole in the center sufficiently strong to hold the heavy weight of earth and sod — the covering of the roof. 80 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. On the t(4) of tliese rude structures tliere was often growing in har- mony together a mass of prairie grass, weeds and sunflowers. The front of the dugout is usually built of stone, or logs, with space for a door, per- haps one window, rarely two, sometimes none. In some instances a hole would be left for the purpose of admitting air and light. The floor was almost invariably of terra firma leveled smooth and cleanly swept. Many of these crude huts sheltered families who had seen better days — e\-en some who had been reared in the lap of luxury and have since figured most conspicuously and prominently in the histor}^ of Cloud county. Most of these pioneers were an intellectual, industrious people who came west to secure homes and to better their condition. They had all seen better days. There were no drones among them ; for that class of people would not dare face the hardships a new country must impose. The settlers' wives were brave and true women and many of the dugouts were models of cleanliness and neatness and comfortable to the extent of their provisions for making them so. A Sunday school teacher in Glasco asked one of his brightest pupils "What kind of a house did Adam and Eve live in?" The young hopeful studied a moment, and thinking of tlie Kansas primitive mode of dwelling, replied. "In a dugout, I guess." A PIONEER \\'EDDING. The following pioneer wedding ceremony performed by the late Rever- end R. P. West, as gi\-en by Colonel E. J. Jenkins in The Northern Tier, is well worth reproducing: "I was in\'ited by a settler to visit one of those 'dugouts' and witness the marriag-e of his daughter. 'Be sure and come,' said the hospitable farmer and his wife, as they departed from town, with a goodly portion of pro- visions to be transformed into a wedding dinner. It was a mild October day, and committing the care of the office to the register and clerks, I shook the dust of Concordia from my feet, and rode into the country to attend the wedding- at the 'dugout" of my friend. "His primitive mansion was situated at the base of a ridge, surrounded with a beautiful grove of his own planting. As I rode up the lane, on one side of the corn-field, the frosted blades rustled in the winds, and the weed- less ground was checkered with gold-colored sweet pumpkins. On the oppo- site side was a corral, in which several well-fed milch cows stood lazily, or leisurely \valked toward the watering trough at the sound of the creaking of the well wheel, denoting that it ^^'as the time for moistening their capacious stomachs with nature's beverage. As I approached the dwelling my friend was issuing his commands to the playful children while caring for teams that had arrived, while his wife and a couple of neighbor ladies were dexter- ously plucking the feathers from the body of a large turkey and other fowls, and the prospective bride, blushing, and happy, was receiving her lady HISTORY OF GLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 8i friends. Beneath the branches of the grove was a sward of bhie grass, sown and cuUivated by the settler. After caring for the teams, he shuwed me his farm, his fields and his improvements, closing- his conversation by avowing his determination to build a more substantial residence in the near future. "The hilarity of the guests upon arrival, evidenced that they were thor- ough partakers of the genuine enjoyment of witnessing a wedding on the frontier. The whole scene was one of happiness and pleasure. "A number of the neighbors and friends of the parties had arrived, con- spicuous among whom was the officiating clergyman, the Reverend Romulus Pintus Westlake, with the conventional plug hat shading his manly brow, his bland countenance wreathed in hapjDy smiles. "I will not attempt to assume the role and claim the privilege of the professional 'Jenkins,' who frec[uents places of fashionable resort to describe stunning toilets and print personal gossip; but let this suffice for a descrip tion of the toilets of the homestead wedding party, that the neat calico dresses and sun-shade hats of the ladies, and the cheap but durable raiment of the gentlemen, were in harmony with the times, and with' the plain, domestic spirit that prevailed in the homestead region. The hour having arrived for the ceremony, the 'dugout' being found inadequate to accommodate the assembly, an adjournment to the grove was carried unanimously. The Reverend Romulus appeared to be in his natural element, supremely happ}". prefacing the ceremony with a flow of elocjuence, and an elaborate allusion to the happy union about to be consummated beneath the canopy of hea\-en, according to the institutions and laws of God and man. After he had pro- nounced the parties man and wife, he proceeded, in an impressive manner, to give them some gratuitous advice as to their marital obligations, throw • ing in some camp meeting phrases concerning their duty tO' lead Christian lives, such as, 'Train up your children while young, in the way they should go, and when they become old they will not depart from it," and kindred benevolent injunctions. Good advice, I thought, but rather premature. "During the delivery of this exhortation, Romulus became so impressed with his subject, that with the surrounding scene and his anxiety for the happiness of the entire assembly, he appeared to be entranced, as though sud- denly inspired by the thought that he was in the midst of a wedding revival, similar in excitement to a camp-meeting outpouring. His musical and earnest voice rang out clear on the autumn breeze to the most remote portion of the assembly, and these were some of his expressions : " 'Are there not more of the young people in this crowd who desire to be made as happy as this couple, by uniting in the holy bonds of wedlock? If SO', now is the accepted time. Let them come forth to the altar of conjugal bliss and embrace the present opportunity to be made happy." "That appeal seemed to produce an electrical efl^ect, as a couple of swains stepped forth from their seats, each leading by the hand a blushing 82 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. damsel, with whom they had previously commenced a prehminary court- ship. ••..\t this juncture in the proceedings, Esquire O , a venerable home- stead settler, arose and objected, -when a controversy occurred between him and Romulus, the 'squire saying: " 'I have been jestice of the peace two terms, and the statut of Kansas does not 'low any one to marry without fust gittin' a license, and as I am a iestice of the peace, and by virtoo of my office as a peace officer, it is my iDOunden duty to object to these yoimg people being married without fust gittin' a license.' "Romulus replied: ' 'Squire, I can marry them, and they can afterwards procure the license, for human events are uncertain, and when a woman is once in the notion of manwing, if she is disappointed, she may not again consent to marry the man to whom she is first engaged, and should that be the misfortune of either of these young men, they may drift away on the sea of despair and commit the unpardonable sin of suicide. Remember, 'squire, that you and I were once young." "The 'squire replied, earnestly: T say the p'int o' the business is, the license shall be issued before the marriage can be permitted, and it is my bounden duty as a jestice of the peace to see that the law is not violated." " ' 'Sciuire. I can marry them and the license can be issued and dated back. I have known marriage licenses to be dated back under less favorable Circumstances than those surrounding these young people." "The 'squire still persisted in his objections, and the matter was finally submitted to me. I promptly decided that the justice was right, when Romulus yielded, and advised the young men to 'hold the fort' until they could procure the license, and he would then marry them free of charge. "In due time the tables were spread in the grove, and dinner announced. Such a dinner! It seemed that culinary skill had been taxed to the utmost to prepare the bountiful repast spread before the assembly — roast turkey, pyramids of cake, columns of pumpkin pies, suberb coffee, goblets of sweet milk, neatly indented rolls of choice butter, etc., etc. But why describe it? To appreciate such a dinner, one must be seated at the table and assist in dispatching it. I could verify my description of it by the affidavit of the Reverend Romulus, whose fondness for good dinners was signally displayed on that occasion. I became alarmed lest he might injure his health, as large portions of the turkey rapidly succumbed to his voracious appetite. My astonishment increased, howcA-er, when he attacked a column of pumpkin pies, and created sad havoc among the jelly dishes and other desert. ' "Dinner over, the fiddler took a position on a bench under the shade of the trees, and the young people quickly formed for the customary dance. A number of the middle-aged men and women joined in the quadrille, and seemed to have renewed their youth as they tripped lightly to the inspiring music. "The Reverend Romulus became silent and thoughtful, and uttering HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 83 some partially incoherent remarks about the waywardness of mankind, calletl for his horse. I insisted on his remaining until the quadrille was ended, whe;i we could say farewell to our host and the bride and bridegroom, and as an extra inducement, intimated that at the close of the ceremony he had omitted to salute the happy couple. I also urged that after taking leave of our friends I would accompany him, as our route homeward was in the same direction for several miles. "Meantime the dance progressed. The whole scene was one of enjoy- ment. The music, borne by the breeze to every part of the gro^•e, and inter- rupted only by the clarion voice of the promoter, created a marked sensa- tion of pleasure. A group of elderly ladies gossiped as they watched the agile movements of the young men, and graceful, modest promenading of the young ladies. A stalwail settler, leaning against a tree, declared to a neighbor that, "no new got-up cotillion could compare with the "old A^ir- ginia reel," when he and the old woman were young.' "The healthful, blushing faces of the ladies, and sun-tanned features of the gentlemen, when dancing, were radiant, indices of genuine pleastire and happiness. "Romulus assumed an air of sadness, and addressing me, said, 'The human heart is as prone to evil as the sparks to flj' upward.' x\s we rode down the lane his wit and humor revi^'ed, arid when we separated beyond a grove, his musical voice rang out clear on the evening air as he sang, 'When I can read my title clear,' etc. "I could but reflect that, though eccentric, he possessed a noble heart, and the cause of Christianity was in trustworthy keeping within the bound- aries of his circuit on the frontier." CHURCH ORGANIZATION OF THE FRONTIER. Church work in the new settlement was somewhat sterile, a \\-ant that was sadly felt. Mr. Rupe says in his "Early Recollections," "We find even Hagaman, who considers himself the leading infidel in the country, judg- ing from what he says in his own paper, deploring the fact that Mrs. Mentz in her burial had neither singing nor prayer." Even after religious services had been instigated its progress was .slow. It was over three }-ears before public worship was held and very near seven years before a church was established in the county, dating from the first settlement. It is doubtful if a parallel case can be found. The late Reverend R. P. West enjoyed not only the distinction of estab- lishing the first place of worship in the county, but delivered the first sermon, organized the first church and Sabbath school, and on down to a later date he preached the first sermon in Concordia. His work at one time embraced all of Cloud, Republic, Clay and a large part of Washington county, all of which are living witnesses of his early labors. Toward the close of 1863, R. P. West settled in the Republican valley 84 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. and immediately began his ministerial efforts, holding religious meetings wherever the most convenient. Clifton, W^ashington county, was among the first meeting places, that being a sort of mid-way station between the set- tlements on Petes and Elm creeks. He organized a church there, but though so well centralized he found it necessary to solicit the members of various denominations to unite with the Alethodist Episcopal church in order to effect an organization, under the promise that as soon as other churches were, established they could claim the privilege of withdrawing and unite with the church of their choice. Reverend West being a Methodist, and probably a majority of the set- tlers were of that persuasion, they were united under that head. About the same time, he began holding services at the home of "Uncle" Heller, which was in reach of most of the people. Scj it will be seen 1863 was the year religious services were observed in the county but no church organized until in the spring time of 1866. During 1864, a young lady from Ohio, attended one of these meetings and was somewhat anxious to ha\'e the frontier minister pointed out to her. There \\as a well dressed man present \\ho bore a rather sanctimon- ous look, and she asked a friend if that were not he, but received an answer in the negati\'e. Presently a man entered clothed in a pair of overalls, an old black coat v.-ith a rip in one of the back side seams and anything but a dignified appearance. The young lady was surprised to receive a hunch from her friend, which intimated "that is the preacher." A Sabbath school was not organized until some time in 1864, at Clif- ton, and the following year in the Elk Creek settlement. The Baptist church was organized oh January 10, 1867. under the ministration of the Reverend H. S. Cloud. The Reverend Cloud is deser\'mg of more than passing men- tion. He livetl on Eancy creek, Riley county. Although not a pretentious preacher, he was a man of education, possessed of a rich and cultivated mind. He was devoted and self-sacrificing in his work. Arduous in his labors on the frontier and well deserving, though he was scarcely remuner- ated for his toil. He afterward moved tO' Iowa. The Presbyterians had no organization until some time in May, 1870. The action taken at that time was of irregular order and it is doubtful whether that body dates its organization to this period, in which event the church in Concordia obtains precedence. This attempted organization was the work of the Re^^erend Mr. Chapin, then a resident of Irving. The following is clipped from Colonel E. T. Jenkins' admirable little volume. The Northern Tier. The author was a warm personal friend of Reverend \\'est and characterizes him in a humorous, but fitting way, as the Reverend Romulus Pintus \A^estlake. "It was announced that he would preach in the fend office building on a certain Sunday. He appeared at the appointed time and the settlers for miles around came to hear him. Upon inquiry it was ascertained that there was not a Bible in the village, and the preacher had failed to bring one. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 85 and likewise had forgbtten his text, but intimated his ability to find it if he had a Bible. After reflecting a moment, he remembered detached por- tions of the passages, but had forgotten the exact language, or the order in which they appeared in Holy Writ. After the usual preliminary cere- monies, he proceeded as follows : THE SERMON. " 'My friends and fellow-travelers in this wild frontier region — the land of our adoption — my Christian duity impels me to appear before you and present to you that brightest jewel among the gifts bestowed upon mankind (the gospel), as taught by those who have gone before me — "the latchets of whose shoes I am unworthy to unloose." The regard I have for the truth compels me to admit that I have forgotten the chapter and verse, as well as the exact language of mj^ text; but as near as I remember, it is about as follows : "Disturb not the old landmarks, though you be hewers of wood and drawers of water;" from which I deduce and supply the following as the foundation of my remarks on this occasion: "Hew to the line, let the chips fall where thej' ma}"." The text truly demonstrates that those who uttered it had an eye to business, temporal as well as spiritual. Whether Solomon was right in forbidding the removal of the old landmai'ks, or Joshua in imposing the duty of hewers of wood and drawers of water upon the conquered Canaanites, is a c[uestion too pro- found for a common preacher on the frontier, and I accept all Bible teach- ing as true, as I find it, without adding to or subtracting from it one jot or tittle. " 'But being witho'Ut a Bible, I am compelled to use a figure of speech on which to base my sermon; hence my subject, "Hew to the line, let the chips fall where they may, but disturb not the old landmarks in doing so." Judging all the homestead settlers by myself, they are all more or less '"hewers of wood and drawers of water," in a physical and moral point of view, differing from the hewers and drawers of old time in this : that the homestead settlers are free and independent in a free coimtr)-. while the old-time hewers and drawers were bondmen, or sla\'es. That part of the text that commands, "Disturb not the old landmarks," might be applied to the monuments and cornerstones erected by the surveyors ^^•hen this country was surveyed, but I apply it to the moral and religious landmarks established by the church in its early days. " 'A departure from the old landmarks thus established, leads to new and doubtful theories and doctrines, and little by little the first principles and original doctrines are lost sight of, and infidelity, spiritualism and kindred dogmas usurp the place of the grand apostolic doctrines in the mind, and the original truths are discarded by those whO' seek the seductive paths of science and embrace the "liberal" tenets of infidelity. Therefore disturb not the old doctrinal landmarks of faith, lest you meander too far 86 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. from the true line — the original witness — trees or monumental corners of the true survey. " 'The hewers of wood and drawers of wzter produce more happiness in the world than the nobles and aristocrats who bask in the sunshine of idleness, and subsist on the products of the honest toil of the laborers. The bli.jod of a king whose commands rack a nation from center to circumfer- enece, and whose sword awes a continent into submission, is no better than that of the serf whom the king holds in bondage or in servile allegiance. He who was rocked in a sugar-trough for a cradle, and reared in the moss- grown log cabin, may be a better, happier and wiser man than the aristo- crat, whose infant cries were smothered •sA'ith gorgeous drapery in a mag- nificent cradle, and reared amid the frescoed halls of a palace. " 'The honest laborer and Christian who "hews to the line,"' makes society l^etter and happier, and causes the light of civilization to penetrate the wilderness, thus dispelling the gloom of ignorance and bar- barism, and causes Christianity to spread its genial rays wide over the world, may truly be classed as one of Nature's noblemen. " 'Many there are who, unhonored, liaA-e left in every footprint, from the cradle to the gra\e, brilliant examples of honesty and integrity; whose energy and enterprise have caused the rose to blossom upon the desert waste, beautified the forest wilds, and gathered the splendors of the valley into the storehouse of usefulness. They hewed to the line, and won their reward in the sweat of honest toil. It has been written, "Whatsoever thou findest to do, do it with thy might;" and I add, when thou doest it, "Hew to the line." " 'Pope said, "An honest man is the noblest work of God." What kind of a jiib would the old poet have designated a "dead-beat," or a dishonest rascal, whose daily life is a routine of rascality, blasphemy and wickedness? Christianity, when professed and practiced sincerely, not only makes men better and happier, but also causes them to exhibit honesty and integrity of purpose in their intercourse with their fellow-men, thereby aiding to diffuse happiness throughout society. "Remove the beam from thine own eye before thou searchest for the mote in thy brother's eye," is as applica- ble \\est of the sixth principal meridian as it was nearly two thousand years ago on th.e shores of the Mediterranean. " 'There are man)- men, however, who bottle up their religion on week days and make a regular soda fountain of it on Sunday.' "Here some of the audience at the rear end of the building began to laugh, which soon spread among the entire congregation. I expected to hear the preacher reprove them, but instead thereof, he smiled one of his peculiar smiles, and looking at the audience for a moment, exclaimed in an emphatic manner, 'Laugh and grow^ fat, but hew to the line!' This was too much for the audience, and they enjoyed a hearty laugh, in which the preacher joined. As soon as order was restored, he proceeded as follows : HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 87 " 'There are other men who whittle their rehgion, hke a boy whitthng a stick, down to tlie fine point of nothing.' "More merriment among the audience, in which Romulus joined, after which he again proceeded as follows : " 'Charity begins at home, and with many people remains at home. It has been written, "Love your enemies;" and I do try to love mine, even the Indians, according to divine command, if they will stay away from this country so far that "Distance lends enchantment to the view." " 'A philosopher may learn wisdom from a fool, and a Wall street broker may learn integrity from a homestead settler. The difference between a sea captain and a stage driver is not so great as most people imag- ine, as both are clothed with grave responsibility. The Ten Command- ments are a wise collection of rules, and if strictly obeyed, the people would be better and happier — peace and good order would reign. But some strictly observe one of the commandments, and perhaps violate the others. A deacon may swap horses with a layman and get the best of the bargain, or a man of the world practice chicanery with an easj'-going Christian, with- out any check of conscience. Others assume the voluntary responsibility of attending to the affairs of an entire community, by dictating their duty in detail, making telegraphic announcement of the shortcomings of their neighbors throughout the neighborhood. All persons have their friends, some more, some less, but everyone is the recipient of more or less censure from the gossip-heralds of the community. But those who "hew to the line," regardless of the fauU-finding of others, sooner or later will brighten the pathway of Christianity. "Human nature is the same in all ages of the world; cultivate it in the right direction, and it develops the beautiful and ornamaital design of the Creator; debase it, and it becomes the opposite. "While the pagan is worshipping his idol, the civilized Christian read- ing his Bible, the Indian is daubing his face with warpaint, counting his scalps, or reconnoitering a frontier settlemait, to rob and murder — all done by the light of the same sun that illuminates the universe. Statesmen wran- gle about the affairs of government, kings go to war for supremacy and power, while the homestead settler breaks prairie, plants his crops, and reads his Bible in his rude dugout, and is the happiest man. "Though his dugout is rude in architecture, it shelters him and his family; and the wind may whistle through it, the wolves howl around it, but hi? little family gather closer about him as he reads his Bible and offers his devotions. He is in his castle, across the threshold of which no potentate dare venture without pennission, and no sectarian scepter deters him from his Christian home in the East. There are many dugouts and such homes up and down this valley, and scattered o^-er the frontier, before the doors of which my pony has often been hitched wliile I preached within. "The line should be straight, not zig-zag. Every bee-hunter knows full well that when the bee leaves its field of labor and starts for its home — 88 HISTORY OF CLOUD , COUNTY, KANSAS. the hive, the course it pursues is in a straight line. Though it may have ■wandered into new floral fields hitherto unexplored, or threatened by the , near approach of a storm-cloud, its instinct teaches it that its chosen straight line is the shortest route to its home, and no deviation lengthens its "journey. A true man may learn wisdom from the flight of the honey-bee. "The zig-zag line is often followed in the journey of life, and in the scratnble for the almighty dollar, and, like a cottonwood board fence, is alternately warped and straightened by the storms of misfortune, or the sunshine of pleasure and happiness. "The straighter the line of conduct, the less the pressure on the con- science ; and when the end is reached, the memory stretches backward to the paths of the past, lingering a moment at the guideposts that pointed the route of travel through the moral world. "Many men during their evil days tear down the partition wall between their conscience and their daily practice, and fail or neglect to repair or rebuild it after they make profession of a change in their moral conduct, or dead-head their way into the church. The evil one erects false guide-posts all along the pathway of life, primed and painted with the allurements of vice, that sooner or later cause the tra\'eler or hewer to deviate from the straight line, and he wanders into the wilderness of wickedness and despair. "There are no proxies in religion, and as every tub stands upon its own bottom, so verily, 'he that tooteth not his own horn, the same shall not be tooted.' If you are on the down grade, put on the brakes. "Chalk your line with the best intentions and resolutions you have, then hew to it without disturbing the 'old landmarks,' all along the journey of life, through evil as v/ell as good repute, on week days as well as Sun- days, amid prosperity and ad^-ersity, with charity and Christian duty inscribed on your banner, and you will have a morality that will neither rip, ravel, nor rust. "I do not preach for money, and I never ask for any contributions for my preaching; but if some kind friend will invite me home with him to a good dinner, and funiish some provender for my pony, he will receive his reward." He usually sang all his hymns in the same tune — Old Hundred — and he closed his services by singing the words of the Doxology in that venera- ble tune, with his musical voice and original variations, while a few of his congregation sang the words in the proper air, and if the discord was detected by anyone present, due allowance was made for the privilege of having a sermon and time-honored hymn-singing on the frontier. BUFFALO HUNTING ON THE PLAINS. It would be unpardonable to omit giving some of the buffalo hunting episodes as recited by various sportsmen of the plains, whose fires of anima- tion run high as they recall the pursuit engaged in with such fondness. "A HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 89 life on the ocean wax'c" stirs the lieart of the sailor; an existence on the plains delights the heart of the huntsman, to whom danger but adds zeal and spice. Even fear gives coloring to the canvas on which the story is painted. To be a hero of the plains is a joy forever, and the ability to nar- rate from actual experience of adventure attendant to fights with buffalo and "red- skins'' is a joy to the narrator as well as listener. The traditions will be handed down from generation to generation and, although many moons will have waned since the events transpired, the same concern and inspiration will be awalcened. The last two buffalo slain in Cloud county were killed by Lewis Kig- gins, of Grant township. The first of the two mentioned was shot in the spring of 187 1 on the farm now owned by Samuel Clark. The other was captured in the summer of the same year on the farm of Patrick Murray. The event was made memorable by the assailants of the animal appearing ,^ in the chase with pitchforks, hoes, knives and other formidable weapons. There were three buffalo that had wandered away from the main herd — they pursued them, but the other two escaped. The party was comprised of William H. Ansdell, Lewis Carter, the late George Champlin and Lewis Kiggins. The latter was mounted on a horse, carried a gun and was entitled to the honor of slaying the last "hero of the plain" in Cloud county. The buffalo was run to earth and slain within a few rods of Mr. Murray's cabin on Cheyenne creek. PLEASURES OF THE CHASE AS TOLD BY E. C. DAVIDSON. E. C. Davidson, one of the old-timers and well-to-do farmers (see sketch) of the Glasco country, J. L. Hostettler, who lived many years on the Solomon, and two settlers named Anderson and Bible, — all hardy men, inured to camp life and hardships, jovial fellows and "crack shots," — fitted themselves out with camping supplies and started westward, where hun- dreds of buffalo roamed the prairies. The proposed route took them across Asher creek and thence to Mulberry, where they encountered an unlooked- for difficulty, which was disastrous to their supply of food. The crossing had been rendered impassable by \\-ashouts, and as they attempted to drive through the creek the wagon, hunters, oats and provisions were overturned into the channel of the muddy stream. But undaunted by this — to them — trivial circumstance the indomitable sportsmen, true to the intrepidity of pioneers, assorted their provender — which they were not surfeited with — from that of their faithful horses, and full of assurance pursued their jour- ney to the hunting grounds where juicy buffalo steaks would substantiate their depleted eatables. While the entire party were excellent marksmen and hunters of smaller game, Mr. Bible stood alone in buffalo-shooting experience, and, accordingly, manifested considerable pride and self-esteem, as with a lordly air he remarked of his prowess, saying he would show them "how it was done." 90 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Shortly after this display of egotism a monarch of the plain was sighted. \\'ritten in capital letters all over the countenances of the crew A\'as the desire. "I want to kill him," but Mr. Bible put a quietus on the longings of his comrades by exclaiming in an imperative tone of voice, "No! I will give him the deadener and you fellows watch me." The mind of each excited hunter reverted to the diminished quantity of their mess-box and reluctantly assented to allow their superior and recognized leader to fire the first shot. While the missile sent out by the skillful marksman was not a fatal shot, the huge beast — that seemed in proportions a towering mountain to the "ten- derfeet" of the crowd — ran a few rods and fell to the earth wounded. Then followed a scene that would baffle the most fertile brain or brush of an artist to reproduce. The remaining trio, quivering with suppressed action, instantly seized upon the situation and literally filled the body of the animal with ammunition, regardless of vital spots. It would not be unreasonable to suppose each man with an inward delight said to himself, "We killed a buffalo." Around the camp fire that night an interesting picture can be imagined. After feasting on choice cuts of tenderloin and an hour or more spent in puffing wreaths of smoke from their pipes or spinning the traditional hunt- ing A'arns, they wrapped themseh'cs in their blankets and the scenes of the day were soon obliterated by the suspension of the powers that control body and mind. Upon the following morning they arose at dawn, invigorated and ready for special action. Nor did they journey far ere they found the prairies dotted with vast herds of magnificent beasts, affording ample prac- tice for the amateur buffalo hunters, who very soon became adepts in the vocation and champion marksmen, securing in a brief time all they could carry home from the field. While they were dressing their game scores of hungrv coyotes gathered thickly around and about them — dozens of the half-starved creatures everywhere. On this trip the party passed a recently deserted Indian camp which apparently had been vacated but a few hours as the fires were still smoldering. Mingled with the fear, apprehension, and cheerless sensation that the dangerously close p.t-oximity of the savages pro- duced was doubtless a sort of jubilant feeling that their scalps were exacdy on the spot \\-here they belonged instead of dangling at the belt of some murderous Indian warrior. BUFFALO HUNTERS FROM GRANT TOWNSHIP. In the summer of 1870 a buffalo hunting party comprised of William H. Ansdell, Jack Robinnet, James Kiggins, Mr. Friend, Gus. Thomas and Lewis Carter, accompanied by an old hunter of the plains from Jewell City, who acted as guide, and in accordance with a proposal to make the Solomon Valley, where the main herd grazed, their destination, the company turned in that direction : but before they arrived in that region thev were fortunate enough to kill a wild cow and calf, which supplied them HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 91 with meat until they could reach camp and make preparations for the hunt. Everything being- in readiness for the occasion the hunters started out in various directions. Mr. Friend and Mr. Carter pursued a course up the river and had not gone far when they discovered a buffalo grazing on a hill- side, about two miles distant. The hunters who were novices in the matter of such gigantic game were overjoyed at their good fortune in immediately sighting a victim, and such a shining mark he appeared while leisurely feed- ing on the grass and growing herbage on the declivity of the hill. So fear- ful were the unschooled sportsmen that their appearance would frighten the animals, when a mile and a half away, they crawled upon their hands and knees until they had sneaked up within gun-shot range, and when they arrived at length with aching knees and skinned shins, produced by draw- ing their bodies along the ground, the excited pair were seized by what was known in pioneer parlance "bufifalo fever," but what would be termed in modern times nervous excitement. When they attempted to level a bead on the buffalo that continued to leisurely feed on the hillside, the rifles swayed in their trembling hands like reeds in a stiff Kansas breeze. After repeated efforts to steady their shattered nerves, they hit upon a plan for devising a rest by rearing a sort of wall made from the innumerable "buffalo chips" that covered the prairie, placed their guns on Ihe improvised support and when the signal was given, both weapons were fired simultaneously, but it was an extra volley from Mr. Carter's gun that brought the buffalo toppling forward; that irrevocably fixed his fate. Anxious moments followed, for they recalled the experiences of sensational storj^ tellers who alwa)'s dwelt with emphasis upon the dangers encountered with the wounded buffalo, hence they whetted and sharpened their knives and implements of war for a skirmish with the injured monarch, and cautiously creeping up to their victim found it barely alive, and also discovered it had been in that condi- tion for many, many days. The hide was almost devoid of hair, the animal was blind as a bat, and Mr. Carter declares the bullet which passed through its body did not extract enough blood to wet the end of his little finger. The disappointed huntsmen left their blind, hairless and toothless trophy on the field, after having put the old residenter out of his misery, and continued on their way up the river, where thev were rewarded by better success and with less drain upon their nervous systems. After spending several days most delightfully and securing all the meat they could use, returned to their homes, where they told how by "their prowess they had conquered all." HUNTING NARRATIVE FROM SIBI.EY TOWNSHIP. In honor of Welt Smith and John Clark, young men who were visit- ing friends in Sibley township, and to render their western trip devoid of deficiences, a buffalo-hunting tour was planned in December, 1870. Steve Chapman, Charles Taggart, Ed. Kenyon, Wesley Ken)-on, Jud- son M. Dutton and Henry L. Dutton, delighted to thus entertain their 92 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. friends and guests, entered into the spirit of the proposition with the great- est complaisance, and perhaps jolher fellows never spent three weeks on the plains in the festive hunt than the eight individuals who comprised this companv. The conditions of the atmosphere or the disturbances of the ele- ments did not agitate them very serioush', although a storm was raging ere they were out forty-eight hours. The second night they camped on Oak creek, west of where the present city of Downs is located, and when they arose next morning and pulled aside the door of their little canvas house they found the earth draped in a mantle of white; the tent weighted with the fall of snow, which, as it melted, flowed in from all sides ; but no expres- sions of regret were heard even though their camp was in a deplorable con- dition and their supply of salt dissolved. Breakfast dispatched, they pur- sued their way along the Solomon river until they came to the buflialo grounds, where from the vast herds that roamed the hills in every direction they filled the four wagons with the rear quarters of the magnificent ani- mals; and of all the splendid beasts they slayed, not a hide was saved. During this expedition these hunters encountered a terrific blizzard and almost perished in the cold and storm. They were cjuartered in a tweh-e foot tent, with the frozen buffalo meat piled high around on the outside. AAHiile sheltered there a strange and serious incident occurred. Welt Smith wliose clear conscience must have deepened his slumbers, pillowed his head on the bosom of the damp and cold mother earth, where he slept soundly, undisturbed by reminiscences of the hunt; but when morning dawned and he attempted to arise from his jjeaceful bunk, sometliing was seaningly clutching him by the hair — suggestive of the scalping knife — and held him tight and fast. In response to his cries of distress his comrades rushed to his rescue and found Mr. Smith pinioned to the earth by the long locks which he had been cultivating until they rivalled those of "Buffalo Bill." They had congealed A\ith the earth and were frozen fast to the ground. There were but two alternati^'es. They must be chopped out or the hunter must continue in that position until the gentle springtime released him. He chose the former and parted with his flowing tresses. AA'hile the snow was on, the sportsmen found wild turkeys in innum- erable numbers, from three to four hundred in one drove. The snow retarded their progress and the hunters could have captured them all, but only killed what they could use for food. The other "tenderfoot," John Clark, from jMichigan, furnished his quota of amusement for the party. His feet were clad in moccasins manufactured from a buffalo skin. These coverings, whichi bore some resemblance to shoes, were dried and turned up like sled runners. Mr. Clark ran up a steep bank to fire a fatal shot in a buffalo he had wounded. Just as his gun was discharged he stumped the protruding toe of his shoe and fell headlong down the embankment, but as he scrambled to his feet and witnessed the object of his pursuit in the throes of death, the sportsman's wounds were quickly healed. On the return trip the hunters offered a quarter of meat to Mrs. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 93 McCracken, of Mitchell county, in return for supper and breakfast, as their breadstufifs were running low. Their landlady smiled significantly and thought she had struck a "bonanza," but ere the hungry campers had fin- ished their first meal, any bargain she had anticipated in the agreement was disillusionized. H. L. Button, to whom the author is indebted for the substance of this narrative, says: In the spring of 1869, from a point between the Solomon and Saline rivers, he has witnessed from one of the hills of that territory, where a \'iew is gained for twenty-five miles or more toward either point of the compass, thousands and thousands more, of these grelat shaggy coated beasts. When in Chicago in 1884 Mr. Dutton visited Lincoln Park, which then contained two buffalo. iVs he looked upon them these inferior specimens appealed to him as a fragment, a remnant, as it were, of the noble beast — the "monarch of the plain" — that once in droves of countless numbers ranged over the Kansas prairies. "Through wood, through waste, o'er hill, o'er dale, his roam," and infused a miraculous inspiration in the heart of every huntsman. ROMANCE OF THE PLAIN AS TOLD BY URIAH SMITH (SEE SKETCH), THE CHAMPION BUFFALO SHOOTER OF CLOUD COUNTY. The championship of buffalo shooters of Cloud county undoubtedly belongs to LTriah Smith, of Clyde, who followed that vocation for about five years and has killed hundreds of the mammoth kings of the prairies, since the first memorable expedition, along with O. G. Morley, in May, 1 866. They were inexperienced hunters for game of such magnitude, but were distingm'shed marksmen and any object they made a target usually came in contact with the well-directed missile from their shooting-irons. Everv'thing in readiness for the event of their lives, the amateur bison hunters traveled in a northerly direction until they reached the forks of Buffalo creek, a favorite camping place for sportsmen, freighters and emi- grants. ^Ir. Smith and I\Ir. IMorley remained on these grounds until they had killed and dried a load of buffalo meat. Ere preceding further the process of curing the meat might prove of interest to many readers. The pioneer camper was always provided with a large iron camp-kettle. In one of these useful utensils the hunter heated a strong brine composed of salt and water; the former oftentimes procured as they passed the salt marsh en route to their destination. The meat was dipped into the scalding solution, then su.spended from a sort of scaffold built about four feet from the ground. Underneath, a fire smoldered con- tinuously, and within a few days the fine cuts from the hind quarters of the animals \\ere smoked, dried and converted into "jerked" meat, as it was termed, which was deliciously palatable. A humorous circumstance occurred while on a hunting tour in 1867 with a party consisting of Mr. Smith, Mr. Morley and James Neeley. 94 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Thev were joined where Concordia now stands by Thomas and WilHam Riley, Henry Simons and Thomas Wilcox. The immense herd was traveling in a northerly direction at a rapid gait and had gained about four miles ere the hunters could overtake them. At this point the great drove halted in one of the bends of the creek to graze. ^Mr. Smith and Mr. Morley followed around through the dry bed of the branch to find a favorable position from where they could shoot to the best advantage. Just as the situation was attained and the hunters had gained a place of ambush from where the>' could select the choicest marks for their prey unobserved by the herd, an old and decrepit animal came wandering near and stopped to graze directly in the path bet\\-een the anxi- ous sportsmen and the coveted buffalo. He was but two or three rods dis- tant and they endea^-ored to get him out of the ^\'ay but he would merely turn his sightless eyes in that direction and quietly feed on. Mr. Smith threw gravel obtained from the bed of the creek, but like the hero who stood on the deck of the burning ship, "he would not go," and the outwitted hunt- ers were compelled to make a new stand, from which they killed two buffalo and wounded another. They then shifted their position to a rise of ground, and \\-ere crawling on their hands and knees toward the herd. As Mr. Mor- ley, who was in the lead, looked backward he exclaimed, "Look behind you, Smith." Mr. Smith turned and discovered the venerable and almost help- less old bison walking straight toward him. Desiring to not frighten the main body by rising to his feet Mr. Smith remained in a sitting- posture and lustily waved his hat, but the aged monarch continued, cjuite unconcerned. Mr. Morley. who was amused by the ludicrous situation, laughed aloud, which the animal evidently heard, although he could not see, for he halted, pricked up his ears and ambled off in an easterly and parallel direction. Being" filled with compassion for the poor old veteran of the plains, Mr. Smith ended his miserable existence by a bullet from his unerring rifle. It is needless to affirm, choice steaks were not taken from his carcass, or the hide preserved that was as devoid of the once thick, shaggy coat of hair as the body of an elephant. They then pursued the main herd and killed two more. Mr. Smith's father, Andrew W. Smith, who was also fond of the hunt, took pleasure in relating the following humorous but critical situation of Abe Cole, an old Wisconsin friend who, like all that came to the frontier, aspired to kill a buffalo. Mr. Cole had never seen one of the huge beasts and it might be concluded from his manner and expressions that he did not rate the buffalo as a formidable wild animal with monstrously thick body, great strong legs, tapering horns, and slioulders covered with long rough wool, but a docile creation more like the domestic ox or horse, for when they were planning for the hunt Mr. Cole stoutly declared his intention to ride the first one he wounded. The recent arrival on the frontier was warned that such an undertaking would prove a very dangerous proceeding, and was advised to forego the inclination, but like his predecessor, the jolly "Old King Cole," a "merry old soul was he," and contended he could run in HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 95 a circle so fleetly the wild cattle could not follow him. When the hunters reached the salt marsh in Grant township, bison were seen dotted over the wild waste which was devoid of water, and its white, glistening surface shim- mering like diamonds in the sunlight, was smooth as a floor except for here and there an abrupt bank, one of which served as a concealed station for the hunters, who impatiently waited for hours ere the herd wandered within gun-shot range. A large bull was selected by Mr. Cole as his victim and the next moment a bullet went crashing into his bulky frame. The wounded and infuriated animal lunged forward with the evident intention of goring his would-be slayer, but with a stream of blood gushing from his body the hero of the plain sank to the earth apparently dead. The proudest moment of Abe Cole's life had dawned, and with a heart so swollen with pride it was nigh untQ bursting, he drew near his fallen victim. But alas ! for human hopes, death had not claimed the dethroned monarch, and as his enemy approached to gloat over his victory, with a mighty, herculean effort, the wounded and maddened animal arose to his feet. Then began the "cir- cle route," not over the "Colorado Toll Road" of national faine, but on the salt-whitened plane of the marsh. The enraged bull, smarting from his wound, followed closely upon the fleet footsteps of the novice, but not in the proposed circle. With an ominous snort, followed by thundering bel- lows of rage, shaggy head lowered and tail erect, the animal dashed across the level in hot pursuit. His gigantic frame as it neared the flying fugitive seemed to the terror stricken hunter a towering mountain in his immensity, and during this episode the would-be hero discarded all thoughts of turn- ing equestrian, nor cared he naught for glory. His retreat implied his acceptation of the old maxim, "A live coward is worth more than a dead hero." With the sv\nftness of a locomotive the sportsman sped over the ground only "touching the high places" in his eager flight for safety, when a bullet from his comrade's rifle sealed the doom of his lofty majesty and terminated the exciting scene. When anxious and interested friends inquired how he enjoyed his first buffalo hunt Mr. Cole responded: "I ha^•e had enough of it." BUFFALO HUNTING EXPEDITION AS RELATED BY GEORGE W. TEASLEY, OF THE SOLOMON. The new arrivals to the frontier were always eager to witness the vast herds of bison that ranged over the prairies by the hundreds of thousands and if he were in the least degree a sportsman he could not rest until fresh laurels were added to his prowess by terminating the career of one or more of these majestic beasts. In the latter part of July, 1866, a hunt was inaugurated by George W Teasley, D. W. Teasley, A. D. Teasley, A. C. Bagwell, H. H. Spaulding, John Howard, John Higgins and Captain John A. Potts. There were about a half dozen wagons to be loaded with buffalo meat, and a week was the 96 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. time set apart for the consummation of their plans. The buffalo had been driven \\-est, and the main herd were wandering about tlie forks of the Solo- mon river. The first night the hunters camped on Limestone creek and after supper, those who had not removed the cartridges from their guns during the day proceeded to discharge the loads, clean their weapons, re-charge and render them in a state of prime working order, that an unfailing fire might be depended upon in case of an emergency or while in quest for game. While putting his rifle in condition A. D. Teasley miraculously escaped serious injury; the breech-pin blew out, splitting about six inches of the gun- barrel wide open, but aside from the terrorized shock he received and a slight powder burn, Mr. Teasley was unharmed. The party had not pro- ceeded far on their way next morning ere thfiy. could see a straggler now and again, and occassionally a small herd of buffalo. When one of their number becomes antiquated and infirm he drops out from the mad rush of the throng and trails along on the outer edge, oftentimes drifts entirely away, seemingly prefering a life of seclusion in his old age and forsakes the herd altogether. The huntsmen did not tan-y to capture the remnants that quietly grazed along, but hastened on, crossed the north fork of the Solomon river about where Downs is now situated and on the south fork where they camped for the night. It was late in the afternoon when they pitched their tent, the buffalo were traveling in a southwesterly direction and by the time the sun was sinking in the west there were myriads of the mighty mon- sters in sight. All through the long hours of the night the continued roar of their tramping hoofs was heard by the sportsmen who eagerly but tremblingly awaited the dawn of day. Had the party of settlers known the herds of bison were being driven westward from the settlements by the Indians they would have breathed less freely. However, they did not come in contact with the savages and their scalps were retained. Breakfast over the next morning, the marksmen for the day's hunt were appointed, while some of their number were to guard the camp, and others designated to follow the huntsmen and pick up the game. It was necessary to dress the animals within a comparatively few hours or they were otherwise rendered unfit for use. The selection fell on George W. and D. W. Teasley, who were mere bovs and had never been near a live buffalo. It was suggested an experi- enced hunter accompany- them, but their self-esteem would not admit of an attendant upon such a valorous occasion and promptly rejected the propo- sition. The favored knights proudly trimmed their weapons exactly to their conception of excellence, swung the shot-pouches, over their shoulders, buckled on their belts, which contained cartridges, six-shooters and butcher knives. Though they assumed a bold front Mr. Teasley says there was a combination of fear and anxiety he cannot explain. None of the party suspected their real emotion, however, neither did the young hunters intend to show the white feather. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 97 The buffalo were on the hills all around their camp in every direction, and as the young men sauntered forth the continuous deep gutteral roar of the bellowing beasts that was wafted to their ears grew ominous with redoubled force, but with determination the heroes marched on. It was necessar}'- to take advantage by approaching them from the windward side, as buffalo will stampede much more readily from scent, than sight. They selected a herd about two miles to the south, where the ravines would afford an opportunity of approaching quite near. The hunters cautiously and eagerly wended their way across the bottom land to the hills beyond the south fork of the Solomon, where three or four hundred mag- nificent specimens of animal life "were grazing southward. When within a half mile of the herd the sportsmen tediously crawled along the ground and with this precaution taken attracted the attention of an animal now and again, tliat would gaze suspiciously a moment, and as the hunters hugged the earth more closely, the king of the plain -would conclude it was a false alarm and resume his feeding. The boys finally reached a ravine, where they were much relieved by walking erect, under the protection of the higii banks. The buffalo were now on either side of them, and when they supposed they were about opposite the drove, the excited hunters left the narrow hollow, crawled to the top of the ridge and carefiilly raised their heads to take a survey of the situation, when they beheld with horror the herd not more that fifty yards away. As they noted the formidable and gigantic proportions of that vast assembly of shaggy beasts their hearts began to throb and their breaths came and went like the exhaust of a steam engine, then hesitated, pondered over the matter and wondered if it were advisable to make an assault against such tremendous odds, but after several moments spent in misgivings they decided to "attack their lines." As a means of precaution the precocious youths divested themselves of everything that was in the least cumbersome, then each were to select his victim and when the si.gnal, Ready! Aim; Fire! was given the dead!}' missiles were to be sent out simultaneously. Prior to giving the command the trembling youths made an estimate of the distance to the nearest timber, which was about two miles, and felt confident that no bufi'alo ever made could catch them ere the fleet footed knights could gain a friendly tree. As the critical moment drew nigh they were seized with the chill that precedes a fever, but there was no time to lose, as the buffalo were con- stantly feeding away from their station. With supreme efforts they leveled their rifles, the word was given and both guns responded as they touched the triggers. George Teasley was like the little boy who blew out the light and tried to tumble into bed before the darkness would follow. Mr. Teasley was on his feet apparently before the bullet left the muzzle of his giin, and if the missile took, effect, the victim did not exhibit any sign of being injured. To the surprise and inward delight of the hunters, the moment they fired, the whole herd, with the exception of one that had fallen under 98 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. D. W. Teasley's aim, scampered away at full speed over the hills. This ga\e tlie excited frontiersmen couraofe — an article they were sadly in need of just at that time, for the. hills were covered with buffalo, all grazing slowly southward. They reloaded their guns as quickly as possible, and carrying their previously discarded shoes in their hands, the young knights carefully drew near the wounded ■ buffalo. When the animal (which was almost dead) ^\-ould move, they would hesitate, then move a little nearer, while their hair was standing on end, and the shivers racing up and down the marrow in their bones. Their rifles were cocked, ready to shoot or run. they scarcely knew which, but as the huge beast had seemingly ceased motion, they concluded it had succumbed to fate and ventured nearer. Sure enough he had been dead several moments. It was about four years old and a fine specimen of its race. This episode gave the huntsmen courage and valor, and they were more eager than ever to pursue the herds that ranged upon every hill and selected for their second attack a dro^e about two miles to the eastwar that were grazing along a small creek. This point was accessible with less arduous maneuvering, for they could follow the devious windings of the little stream under the cover of bushes that skirted its banks. The creek forked and the west branch led close to the buffalo. There Mas no timber on that prong, but an occasional plum thicket which served their purpose Avell, and allowed them, to get within very close range. While timorously making their way along, George Teasley, through a clump of bushes to the left spied a lone buffalo leisurely lying on the ground not more than forty yards distant. Mr. Teasley said to his companion, "Hold on, Dan ; I'll shoot that buffalo if it stampedes the whole herd." He fired, and the vociferous rqjort that followed resounded from hillside to hillside, with seemingly enough clamor to arouse and stampede all the buffalo on the plains, and almost regretted his hasty resolve to shoot. But no serious detriment was incurred; the herd made a few jumps, wildly looked about them, but as they could neither see nor hear anything further, the quiet grazing was resumed. With great circumspection the hunters then moved on until they came to a big plum thicket, which was about opposite the herd, and crawled up the high band \\'ith even greater caution for they knew the buffalo ^^'ere but a few rods distant. As they looked back from this point they could see the wounded animal struggling in the last throes of death, never ha^'ing risen from the earth after he was shot. Each fresh victory incited new cotirage._ They now slipped their rifles up over the ridge and sighted along the barrel, ready to touch the trigger when a buffalo covered the bead. To gaze at those enormous -mon- sters in such nearness as to see their eye-winkers and almost feel the warmth of their bodies was enough to unnerve experienced huntsmen, but in the exciting sport the young heroes quickly became inured to the dangers. At the usual signal each gun was discharged and two of .the monarchs fell victim to their well directed bullets. A weird and strange scene followed. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 99 Tlie herd jumped and ran a few paces, then returned, gathered around the fallen beasts and fought and gored each other in a vicious manner. They attacked the dead animals and with their short but tapering horns, tore their hides asunder. The hunters watched this fierce battle for a few moments and then withdrew to the base of the bank, reloaded their guns, and again stationed themselves at the top of the ridge, where the affray was still raging. Occasionally one of the huge and powerful animals would make a vigorous charge on the dead bodies of their fellows, and the hidden sportsmen could hear the sound of their honis violently ripping through their hides. As they watched this grewsome but strangely fascinating spectacle "the plot thickened." One of their number circled around the crew of fifteen or twenty, and finally swung off in the exact direction of the two youths, who had caused all the commotion. The inquisitive animal had caught a glimpse of tlie hunters' heads sticking up above the bank, and naturally enough was seized with a desire to investigate the objects. Each second his majesty stood there, riveted to the spot not more than ten paces a\\'ay, looking them square in the face, seemed minutes long drawn out to the boys in hiding, whose courage was ag'ain in the balance. They were seized with a desire to run for their lives, but stood their ground, although the hair was again standing straight up on their heads, the proverbial cold chills playifig up and down their spines, and longed to draw their heads out of sight, but dare not move. They were fearful of his lordship pounc- ing down upon them and goring or grinding them into the earth, when in reality he would have stampeded the herd and the hunters would have had two less slain buffalo in the material for these reminiscences. After satisfying himself the objects were of no importance, the buffalo joined his fellows and a moment later the report of two rifle shots rang out upon the c[uiet atmosphere of the western prairie, and two more heroes of the plain were felled dead. The sun never set on two more exuberant lads than these young Teas- leys, as they returned to report the successes of the day and met some of their comrades, who, having heard the shooting, \\'ere following up with the wagon to haul the game, if any tliere should chance to be. When the trophies had been gathered in, congratulations were unstinted and all con- ceded there was good reason for their feeling of manifested pride. The pleasures and excitement of that day was followed by others until they were surfeited with game, -wagons well loaded and \\-ith well established reputations as buffalo hunters. TREE CULTURE. For years the subject of tree culture was somewhat of a problem AVhen the white man began to dispute w ith the Indian, the buffalo and the coyote for the possession of the fertile prairies of Kansas, the planting of loo HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the Cottonwood marked the first step towards civihzation of the upland prai- ries. Various and interesting papers were read in the early settlement of of Kansas and it was generally conceded by the western pioneer pioneer that the culture of trees should be encouraged, and that much of their wel- fare depended upon the preservation of their woods and groves, and the planting of them was encouraged until almost every farm or "claim" had its rows of cottonwoods along the highway. As "Big oaks from little acorns grow," so only a twig was the be- ginning of what later became a giant in form. The Cottonwood tree bears a little bulb which bursts, and borne by the Kansas breeze, sends its little wad of airy cotton in every direction, hither, thither and yon, filling the atmosphere with its downy, feathery cotton that resembles great flakes of snow. The Cottonwood loses its foliag^e -with the first breath of frosty air, its leaves quickly fall to the ground, every limb is di^'ested of its foliage and the winds sigh through its leafless branches, a requiem to departed glory. The Cottonwood's rapid growth was its redeeming feature; something that would withstand the force of the continued "Kansas zephyrs" and give shade, but other qualities it has few or none. ^ So upon a second considera- tion trees of a more commendable c|uality were planted and flourished, almost supplanting the old cottonwoods— their first love — in the hearts of the people. The monarch of the plain was dethroned; few are left on the prairie, with their great branches inviting the weary traveler to rest awhile among their cooling shades, its fateful history short, its downfall rapid, and few of them remain. Where almost everv farm had its long evenue i^f cottonwoods, they have been supplanted by the walnut, ailanthus, catalpa or elms. The ele- ments of forest culture were general!)' discussed until it was demonstrated they robbed the fields by burrowing their great network of roots under the surface (jf the soil and drinking the moisture that was needed for the grain. Consecjuenth- man}- of the trees were cut down bv the farmers. The roots extended as far or farther into the ground as the trees were high and where the field was bounded by cottonwoods, the corn on the other side, though not shaded by them, was much smaller than further on, and during a drouth season shriveled more quickly; so many of those prettv and luxuriant trees were cut down or left to die. A beautiful gro\'e is. an adornment and adds a charm to the home that nothing else can bring, and transforms the monotony of the treeless prairie into a landscape that is fascinating to the eye, and at the same time serves as a windbreak from the chilling blasts of winter. The Cottonwood is a native tree of Kansas and thrives more than an; other, showing a vigorous and rapid growth. We clip the foJlowing arti- cle from the Clyde Herald of July, 1902 : . HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. loi WONDERFUL GROWTH IN TIMBER. "Since the middle of February. 1002, Ii. W. Lamb, of Clyde, has sawed over two hundred thousand feet of htmber and by far the greater part of it grew since the settlement of the county; but the most wonderful part of our story is about a cottonwood tree on U. J. Smith's land, adjoin- ing Clyde. Thirty-six years ago Mr. Smith says the tree was not more than two inches in diameter, but when cut for the saw it measured at the stump fifteen feet in circumference. Two logs were taken from it measur- ing each twelve feet long; the first log made eight hundred and fifty feet of lumber. There were four hundred feet of lumber sawed from the limbs. A total of two thousand and fifty feet was the pr5)duct of this huge tree, which has grown in considerable less than a man's lifetime. It took much skill and labor to get to the saw mill, which was but a few hundred feet away. There was enough lumber in this tree to have made a good sized house, that at one time we okl settlers would have considered pala- tial." The maple, a desirable and beautiful tree, the box-elder, walnut and several varieties of ash thrive in Kansas. The catalpa, a deciduous tree, makes a fne shade and produces clusters of large, fragrant white blossoms, which are beautiful and make this tree very popular. In Concordia, it seems a prime favorite, as there are numerous avenues of them. It has been demonstrated that the evergreen can be successfully grown. Some of the finest illustrations we have seen of this is on the farm of Mr. Mesmore, of Solomon township, and Mrs. Hubbard's suburban home in Glasco. The box-elder, maple, elm and catalpa have come to stay. One still sees a row of cottonwoods occasionally, and although lacking in vir- tue, are pleasantly remembered because they gave shade when there was no other. Its spreading branches sheltered from the scorching suns of early hardships and will be kindly inscribed on memory's tablet, even after the last tree gives place to those that stand higher in favor. THE FEATHERED SONGSTERS OF KANSAS. There is said to be over three himdred distinct varieties in Kansas, but the following mention is of the songsters and birds best known. Of all the blithe singers, perhaps none are sweeter than the joyous notes of the lark after an April shower, as he rises from some grassy nook or sways gracefully to and fro on some swinging branch or reed, or as true to the dawn of day he pours out his soulful song. The wood thrush is a melodi- ous singer. They build their nests in the orchards and hedges. They resem- ble the southern mocking bird in notes and plumage, but are more of a yel- lowish brown in color. The little wren is a dainty bird of brown feathers with lighter brown shadings. He comes with the merry month of May; his notes are low but 102 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. exceedingly musical and sweet. The linnet is not unlike the wreni in color but more slender in body. His notes are among the sweetest and most tuneful of the bird family. He comes when the orchards and flowering shrubs don their sweet scented, flowery robes to greet the spring-time. The snow bird's reign is supreme over the bird kingdom. He comes in winter with the first snow fall and remains until the warm winds of spring approach, then journeys northward again. All concede the scolding, swaggering bluejay, with his gaiy, bright plumage, is a handsome bird, but his notes are harsh and unpleasant. He comes with the bright spring-time and does not seek his sunny southland among the roses with the first cold blast of winter, but remains to feast on the garnered grain. , One of the most beautiful of all the birds to be found in Kansas is the red bird. The bright, crimson hued male proudly wears a coronet or crest like the jay, his coat shading from the brightest to the deepest red. His notes are a happy whistle, clear and sweet. He is most often seen in winter. The red bird is often captured and becomes thoroughly domesticated, but it seems a cruel fate to rob these wild care- free songsters of their freedom, and who would not prefer to hear them lightly singing high up among the branches of the leafless trees, making gloomy winter days cheery with song from their little hearts so blithsome and gay, fortelling the bright, happy days of spring-time, unfettered and free. The English sparrow, now so numerous, is an importation to this coun- try, and a dozen years ago were uiiknown to this section. They are not unlike the barn swallow in habits, making their homes in barns, eaves of build- ings, sheds or any available place. Their nests are made of sticks and mud. The sparrows have made themsehes much disliked by their breeding pro- pensities and long before dawn or peep of day, keep up an incessant chatter that is intensely annoying to the sleeping tenant. They come in countless num- bers with the earliest advent of spring, remaining until late in the autumn. However, they are of a migratory nature and the whole army will some- times vanish in a single day and return in like manner. Another handsome and interesting bird is the oriole, sometimes called the "fire bird," owing to its vivid orange-red and yellow coloring. When driving through the coun- try one sees scores of "last year's birds' nests," in the trees that skirt the banks of the creeks. Their cone-shaped nests built of straw, sticks, wood, hair, etc., are suspended by two seemingly fragile threads, woven by the woof and warp of the ingenious little oriole. Robin red breast flits among the trees of the blossoming orchards. His chirrup is heard with the first arrival of spring. There are a large number of birds belonging to the woodpecker famil)', some of them beautiful in coloring. The specie known as sap sucker, often injures and sometimes kills apple and other trees by girdling them. During the summer irfonths the sweet, warblings of the purple martin and blue birds are heard singing their love songs in the yellow sunlight. The swallows come with the early HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 103 spring-time and build their nests in chimneys and barns. As the shadows of the summer days lengthen and the evening wanes the whip-poor-will's melancholy, but sweet call, 'is heard. One occasionally hears the piping notes of the quail. A dozen years ago the melodious whistle of "Bob White" could be heard at morn and evening, but this fa^'orite bird is fast becoming extinct and it is only now and again that a covey is seen in 'the hedges or in the brush wood along side the creeks. His notes are deliciously sweet. "He tells of summer come again Of blossoms and the growing grain." Of all the feathered family the diminiti^'e king bird is the greatest saver of grain, game and poultry by his war-like attacks against the sharp- shinned hawk and other plunderers of the farm. There are several varie- ties of the dainty little humming bird. Among other birds not so commonly known are the rose-breasted grossbeak, shrike, tanager and cuckoo. Dur- ing the spring and summer there are myriads of blackbirds. They are among the most useful insect destroyers. The ominous hoot of the owl is heard along the rivers and groves. The loss of an occasional chicken that finds its way into their talons is more than repaid by the numei^ous mice and vermin destroyed by this wise looking bird. The crow that frequents this country in large numbers is also a great scavanger. The hawk is a despised bird, but who can watch him circling away into space, his plumage so beautifully colored and marked, glinting and shining in the sunlight, without admiring his graceful poise. Among the best known species are the sparrow hawk. Cooper's hawk, sharp- shinned hawk and fish hawk. Of the game birds, the wild turkey, now extinct, was once monarch. The rivers and creeks abounded with them and supplied many an early settler with a delicious turkey dinner. Wild geese, dtiring their migratory period, are plentiful ; also the various species of wild ducks : the mallard, canvas back, pin-tailed and the little blue and green winged teals are all found in- the ponds, the salt marsh, the streams and at Lake Sibley. The prairie chicken, once so abundant on the plain, is now seldom seen in this locality. Nothing in the game annals of Kansas afforded more genuine pleasure than the innumerable flocks of these birds, that swarmed over the boundless prairies, devoid of hedges, fences or other obstacles to the animated hunter as he rode or drove across the country. The snipe or curlew are a small, hut delicious bird, of fine flavor. The plover is a similar, but smaller bird, THE SUNFLOWER. The sunflower, the emblem of Kansas, although the writer does not know that it was formally adopted as such, is pre-eminent among the wild flowers of the boundless prairies of the state. It is fitting that it should be acknowledged as their emblematic blossom, for they grow rampant every- 104 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. where. During the drouth and hot winds, when the great walls of com are shriveled, and blasted by the fierce sirocco, it continues to thrive, its big yellow flowers nodding and swaying to the breezes. It is most prolific on broken ground, and while its growth is spontaneous, the oldest settlers report that when the country was new and the land uncultivated, the sun- flower was principally confined to the soft and loamy soil along the streams, but as the sod was turned they raised their coronets of gold as if to greet with graceful courtesy a welcome to the homestead settler. They gro\\- rapidly, and if a tract of ground is left idle for a season, the sunflower will reign supreme, growing to a height of from three to a dozen or more feet, covered with golden blossoms that turn their bright faces to the sun, continuing to follow its course until nightfall finds the greater part of them looking westward. They bloom early and continue all through the summer. Nature-loving individuals, whose asthetic faculties find enchantment in every plant in the universe, also find a charm in these wild floral beauties of Kansas. OTHER WILD NATIVE FLOWERS. When the pioneers reached this "Eldorado of the West" the unlimited sea of prairies were a garden of blossoming plants, replete and gorgeous with exquisite coloring, but with each succeeding year the sod of the sec- tions continued to turn, the herds were confined to small areas of pastures, where the greater part of the bright liued flowers were trampled to death in the hoof-trodden soil. The graceful coreopsis that once grew in profusion, transforming the green fields into "cloth of Gold," is now confined to a few of the more reinote hedges and corners of fields. The "niggerhead," a blossom which closely resembles the sunflower, though more diminutive, is a friendly rival of that plant and thrives in the same localities. The most beautiful, perhaps, of all the wild flowers of Kansas is the sensitive rose. Its fragrance is deliciously sweet, a quality which in all probability won for it the name of rose. Certain it is not from any resemblance to the "queen of flowers," for there is no similarity between them. From the base of two stems which are covered with leaves that grow in pairs, and shrink when they come in contact with the human hand, instantly close, to remain in. that condition for the rest of the day, spring out a cluster of the little blossoming balls, about an inch in diameter, the deepest pink or cerise in color, each little film tipped with the merest touch of gold. The blossom is extremely fragile and dainty, yet if handled with care, will retain their beauty and exquisite perfume for several days. The author has found comparatively few of these graceful plants which grow on a spreading bush of from one. to two feet in height, and once scattered their fragrance everywhere. The lily family is. principally represented in the specie known as field HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 105 lily, and closely resembles the garden "tiger lily." The creamy water lily is found in a few localities in the region of Lake Sibley. The wild morn- ing-glory has vari-colored waxen blossoms and grows in profusion along the brush-skirted creeks. The pretty little blue and white daisies are the first to appear in the springtime; they raise their modest heads with the first chirrup of the robin. There are innumerable beds of violets along the banks of the rivers and creeks, commonly known as "Johnny-jump-ups." Where is the school boy that has not matched his favorite imaginary game chicken against an adver- sary in the pit, and ruthlessly decapitated his opponent to the demoralizing of "Johnny-jump-up ?" Then there are buttercups that peep out from along the hedges and tall grasses. Of the dandelions there are two varieties ; the ordinary every-day dandelion that grows closely to the ground. The fringed blossom that grows taller, is partially double and more of a lemon color in hue. The white and yellow primrose are still found in a few localities. The big white and yellow thorn poppy is a handsome flower, but "distance lends enchantment" to its charms, for it possesses an unpleasant odor and its stalk discharges a sticky fluid. Each plant should be labeled "Don't come nigh me." The white and- purple larkspur, now confined to a few fields, once grew com- monly ; also the pretty and fragrant verbena and petunia. A charmingly dainty and beautifully colored flower, bordering on deepest red of the cerise shade, is commonly known as the "Chinese rose," and blossoms bountifully in almost every nook and corner of Clyde during the months of May and June. From the tip of a slender plant, which does not reach more than twelve inches in height, the little bell-shaped flower shoots out-. The blossom is not ttnlike that of the rose moss, but slightly larger and the petals not so widely spread. The flower stalks of the wild jiarsnip, with their snowy umbels of exceedingly dainty beauty that is seldom appreciated, grows abundantly. The same is true of the yarrow and the sage flower that grow on the hills. "Snow in the mountain" that is cultivated with care in the east, grows along the roadside in Kansas. The hills are brightened by the white and purple asters, which come late in the summer after most of the other plants have come and gone. Golden-rod, one of the favorites of the family of wild flowers, grows profusely. In and around the hills a prickly pear or specie of cactus is found, and an occasional yucca, with its sword-like leaves and cream-colored bell-shaped flowers. This plant is a feature of the Rocky mountains. To the Indian it is known as "soap-weed." The root is of a saponaceous character and used by the more civilized tribes for cleansing purposes. The wild rose, long distinguished for its beauty and fragrance, is a native of Kansas. There are two varieties, one a small, low bush, the other a clinging or vining shrub, — the flower, however, is similar except the blossom of the latter is smaller in character. There are perhaps many more species of wild flowers than is mentioned here, and in all probability many varieties have become totally extinct. io6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. GOOD ROADS. Another and important characteristic of Kansas is her good roads. During the winter months they seldom assume that frozen and exceedingly rough condition that marks those of the eastern states in the same season of the year. Again, in the springtime there is no "breaking up" as compared to the experiences with highways that are practically impassable. The extent of time or the period of bad roads in northern Kansas seldom exceeds three days, and are never in a condition to retard traffic. SNAKES. With the approach of warm weather these reptiles began to show themselves in the early days of Cloud county. They were found in the door yards, in the dugout or cabin and on the prairies in gangs and droves. Set- tlers declared war upon them and would collect together for the purpose of exterminating places of habitation. The subject is not a pleasant one to write of and it is enough to make one's blood run cold to listen to some of the thrilling blood-curdling snake killing experiences. What a bonanza it would have been for the unwhole- some snake charmer. Although snake literature is not a pleasing subject, this volume would be incomplete without a chapter on these formidable rep- tiles that were gliding through the prairie grass, coiling in the middle of a path, crawling through the woods and bushes, basking- in the sunlight among the rocks, myriads of them everywhere. The late "Grandma" Christian, of Elk township, related an occurrence of 1884, which has few equals in the annals of snake stories. Mr. Christian had sent two boys to the lower part of the farm to clear the dock from the fence, when they came upon a monster of the species called "blow snake," which the boys assaulted "with intent to kill," when the male snake put in an appearance and fought for the pi'otection of his mate. The boys were victors, howe-\'er, and as they beheaded the female, imagine their horror and surprise, when from a concealed pocket on the body of the mother, thirty-three infant serpents wriggled out. These brave youths exterminated the whole family, making a grand total of thirty-five, which they gathered up and carried home as tangible evidence of a snake battle that has few parallels. It was not an uncommon event to see one of these unwholesome crea- tures gliding over the floor of the dugout, cabin or primitive school house. Behind the newspapers that covered the walls the settlers' wives would often discover that a pair of them had established a home, whereupon the unwel- come intruders would be hastily dispatched. SNAKE DEN STORY. Kansas, not to be outdone in anything, comes forward with a snake yam as told by an "old timer." The den was located about nine miles south- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 107 west of Concordia on the Wagner ranch. It was first discovered by a man named Johnson, in the year 1875. In the spring of that year the discoverer had an idea that there must be a den after having seen various kinds of the reptiles sunning themselves. Arming himself with weapons of defense he began his tour of inspec- tion and was horrified to see thousands of the venomous, loathesome, v^'rith- ing, noisesome creatures. "Discretion is the better part of valor." With this motto our hero (?) "advanced backward," and waited to rally a force of men before making an attack. Wonderful stories were floated about and hundreds of curious sight-seers flocked to the den armed with all kinds of implements of war, pitchforks, axes, hoes, guns and clubs, and began the battle of extermination. When interviewmg an old settler, he told his version in the following manner: "In company with three other men I went out to see snakes, and did see them. First they were looped through the wheels, flying in every direction, at which sight the horses took fright, rearing and plunging, finally running at great speed, throwing reptiles in all directions, and, coupled with the motion and speed of their hoofs, snakes Avere thrown skyward, eight or ten feet high." When asked after this most wonderful recital, "Did you have anything in the surrey made of glass, covered with wicker?" he replied: "O, no. it was not necessary to see double; there were plenty without double vision." Snakes, in unison with Indians, buffalo and prairie dogs, are fast grow- ing to be things of the past. Kansas has had her full share and meed of all these pests. I ■ ' ' '.^ GRASSHOPPER VISITATION. ' ' ' ^ We find, according to .historical reports, there was a visitation of grass- hoppers in Kansas and Missouri in 1820. Another raid is reported by Father John Schoenmakers, of Osage Mission. He says "they came down like snow." They hatched in the spring of 1855 and destroyed all the crops and all the grass on the prairies in that vicinity. The grasshoppers visited Osage Mission again in 1856, but most of the crop had 'been garnered. They hatched in the spring of 1857, but "a sudden freshet swept thein all away." In the same year they appeared in Lawrence and Leavenworth counties. February 26, 1867, the Gopher Bill was changed by the senate into a grasshopper bill, giving a bounty for all scalps of grasshoppers furnished with the ears. Colorado had "hoppers" in 1864-5, but they did not come to Kansas. In 1866 the grasshoppers first struck Cloud county. They put in an appear- ance on August 30, the day the county was declared organized. The sun was clouded by them and myriads of them covered the trees and ground, spreading consternation among the settlers, for they felt assured it was an evil omen, coming on that particular day. The corn was too far advanced 1 08 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. to be seriously injured, .but every blade that was at all green soon vanished under their rapacious appetites. There v^^ere none in 1867 west of Junction City. They laid and hatched only in the northeastern counties and in Mis- souri, where they did some damage, but did not create a panic or much harm in Kansas, though they existed in great numbers, flying through the air. In the year 1868 another great shower of grasshoppers came to the ground in Leavenworth, but did no harm, it being a year of great prosper- ity. Kansas was not the only country inflicted with these great pests, but the New England states had a visitation in 1874 and they did considerable injury to the hay crop, the fruit trees, and corn tassels, devouring the latter as fast as they appeared. THE 'GREAT VISITATION OF 1875. ' Wilder, in his "A.nnals of Kansas," says: "June 6, 1875, all of West and North Topeka were carpeted with grasshoppers; noses north and all walking; some full grown ajid winged; others shedding their slight silver sheaths; a line like an army; they leave no grass behind them; a strange sight; they do an immense work and are silent; Carlyle's type of a hero; and they eat up the town as heroes devastated empires." In several counties they fought them with plows, coal oil and the spade. The following was clipped from an early issue of the Marysville News: "Grasshoppers go to roost just like chickens; they eat like people at a fine dinner ; they get up on their hind legs and howl over disappointment just like a defeated politician ; when they think they are about to get scooped they take a change of venue wherein there is similarity between them and Pom- eroy. They believe in co-operation, like grangers. They strike for 'fat takes,' like the printers. They are weary, like Henry Ward Beecher."' All sorts of means were suggested and advised as an exterminator of the pests. Some concluded the evil might have its compensation. One, H. W. Allen, of Boulder, Colorado, by experimenting, is said to have found that a pint of grasshoppers would yield about two ounces of lubricating oil, and it was thought probable that a crop of "hoppers," which had been con- sidered an unmixed evil, might pay the farmer better than a crop of corn, but the ravishers left behind them a scene of desolation. The people stood with folded arms and saw their luxuriant fields of corn stripped of every blade, helpless and hopeless. The Governor of Min- nesota suggested they be crushed by rollers; caught in bags and trapsi; plowing under deeply of the eggs; co-operative action for the preservation of the prairie grass by burning in the spring: driving them into trenches where they \^•ould be destroyed, and scores of other means were proposed and advised. Another, but said to be an effecti\'e way of killing millions of young "hoppers," was a device described as follows: Take a piece of sheet- iron ten feet long and two or three feet wide, turn up one side about one HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 109 foot for a back, saturate a piece of cloth with coal oil and place it on the sheet-iron, which is. drawn over the ground. The "hoppers" will jump on to it as it is drawn along, they touch the coal oil and it kills them almost instantly. The theory that they wei'e out of their natural element and could not permanently thrive has been confirmed by their flight and failing to return annually but at irregular intervals. It was also conceded a grasshopper would stand freezing and thawing. In the autumn of 1879 they passed over in millions, clouding the sun, moving in a southeasterly direction, propelled by a steady breeze. The air was filled with them but they did not "bide a wee," much to the gratification of the people of Kansas. BENEFIT TO THE STATE. Many people consider the grasshopper invasion a benefit to the state as it drove away the indolent class of farmers. Among the progressive ones who left many returned, loudly proclaiming "W'itli all its grasslx>ppers Kansas is the very best country between the Alleghany and Rocky Mountains." Hard times and calamities are almost as much the result of "croaking" as actual necessity. As when there is not a superabundance of crops and business is stagnated, the people begin to preach doleful sermons and insist upon looking on the dark side of affairs. Hundreds who would not feel the hard times nor have any occasion to take up the cry, clutch the dollar in their pockets more tightly and thus increase the panic. It was not many months ere many of the fugitives returned to their lands, feeling that Kansas held a future full of bright prospects, and was destined to occupy a place among the first ranks of her sister states, and it was surprising how rapidly the country improved and with what velocity they made comfortable homes in the fertile valleys. On the grasshopper subject much has been said and written that is superficial, but perhaps the actual devastation of these pests could not be described. They would eat the blades from the corn stock, and through the shuck, into the ear, not leaving anything but the cob. The green peaches were eaten to the pit; beets and turnips were eat down into the ground, and not a vestige of vegetation left. PRAIRIE FIRE.?. These fires often threatened the farmers with destiaiction and were a formidable foe to the homestead settler. Their advent into a community would bring out all of the available workers in the neighborhood, includ- ing the settlers' wives and children, equipped with water, old clothing, gunny-sacks, brooms, mops, etc., to fight the fire. When the wind was blowing a steady gale — and the fire generally cre- ated one — the fleetest horse could not outrun the flames as they were lifted by no HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the rising wind and carried along at a furious rate. The fire would often cross the ri\ers by bunches of burning grass being borne across by the wind from the opposite side. Saturday, February 5, 1876, a terrific prairie fire swept over the county, taking almost everything in its path. A high wind prevailed. The fire orig- inated on Mortimer creek about midway, and swept everything in the west- ern part of the county, covering an area of about two hundred square miles and destroying several thousand dollars worth of property. Many lost their homes, hundreds of bushels of grain and tons of hay were consumed, and none of them could afford the loss. On March 13, 1879, a fire swept over Lincoln township and a part of Republic county, which was one of the most destructive and most terrify- ing that ever visited Cloud county. The fire began northwest of Sibley and was driven by a southest wind which kept rising and increasing the volume of fire until every available man, woman and child were out combating the fiery element. The fire reached the line of Rqiublic county and after spread- ing about two miles the wind whirled to the northwest and brought the fire back with redoubled fury into Cloud county. It is hardly possible to pic- ture the situation of a community threatened by a disastrous prairie fire. The wind in this instance was blowing with such force as to make it almost impossible for pedestrians to be on the streets of Concordia between three and six o'clock in the afternoon. The air was filled with sand, dust, gravel, loose boards, etc., that went pell mell through the streets; and much worse was the fire. The scene was heartrending. Men, women and children, armed with rags and water, dared face tlie terrible foe and fought valiantly trying to save the property they had labored so hard to accumulate, but not- withstanding their brave efforts, before the sun went down the same even- ing not less than forty thousand dollars worth of property was reduced to ashes in the two townships. Charles Burgren lost everything on his place, including a span of horses, span of mules, hogs, cows, wagon, etc. Mr. Burgren saw the fire coming and started to the assistance of a neighbor, but had to turn back on account of the flames coming upon him; but, unfortunately, did not retreat soon enough and was badly burned. On the farm of Mr. Bowersox the worst tragedy of the whole calamity took place. Mrs. Bowersox, a young woman who had only been married about a }'ear, ran to the stable to let the horses out, the men being away at the time. She had rescued one when she herself fell a victim to the flames and was burned to death inside the stable, along with four horses. When the body was discovered it was a scene horrible to contemplate. The area swept over by this fire was about thirty square miles and at a rapid gait. Fire guards were useless; burning masses of corn husks, weeds, hay, etc, were sent flying through the air and setting fire hundreds of feet in advance of the main line and there was no remedy for it. It was beyond the control of human efforts. HISTORY OF, CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ni PRECIPITATION OF RAIN FALL FOR FORTY-THREE YEARS. The following i-ecord of the rain fall and melted snows is of much more than ordinary importance to the people of Cloud county, as prepared by J. M. Hagaman, who located at Elm Creek, Cloud county, early in July of i860, the year of the "great drouth," the "famine year" as it was' and is still called the world over. The seared prairies., the dried up springs and creeks, parched condition of the earth with cracks intoi which one could reach the length of an arm, without touching bottom, were sights not at all encouraging to the immigrant, and it is not at all surprising that doub't arose in his mind as to whether farming could be successfully carried on in such a country. Still there were some redeeming features; for instance along the creeks the trees were robed in foliage of healthy green,, clusters of grapes in won- derful profuseness hung on vines that reached to the top ot the trees. Black walnuts, large and in great abundance, were seen on every walnut tree. In sheltered places where the fierce sirocco could not reach them, were flowers and grasses and on the low bottom lands of the river was plenty of grass for hay. The soil seemed of unstinted richness, which suggested to Mr. Hagaman and other old settlers, the possibility of raising fairly good crops with a limited amount of rain. They would try it a few years any way, Mr. Hagaman reasoning in his mind that if he could get two fair crojDs out of three years' planting, he would be satisfied. But for the first few years, with what anxiety he watched every cloud that floated above him, and with what anxiety he meas- ured the water that fell from them. It was tliis condition of the country that led him to keep a measurement of the rain and melted snow, and which we herein give to the readers of this volume. It is certainly of great value and if carefully studied it will enable one to form a pretty fair opinion of the future seasons. In the first seventeen years the aggregate only can be given, as the original daily records were destroyed in a fire, and the following are taken from Hagaman's History of Cloud County, and may be relied upon as cor- rect. The first year, i860, was taken from a record kept at Manhattan. YEAR. INCHES. YEAR. INCHES. I860 1334: 1889 30 1861 36 1870 28 1862 35 1871 32 1863 34 1872 26 1864 ; 33 1873 30 1865 32 1874 23 1866 31 1875 24 1867 35 1876 29 1868 ■ 18 Total precipitation for seventeen years, 475 inches; yearly average, 28 inches. This exceeds the next seventeen years by 107 inches, which was 368 112 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. inches, being a yearly average of 21.6. Much of this difference came from the winter snows, which were greater in the first seventeen years than they were in the latter seventeen years. The seven years succeeding the great drouth of 1859-60 were the best seven consecutive crop years since then. This clearly disproves the popular notion ' that settlement and cultivation increase the rain, fall. The great drouth of 1859-60 was broken the last week in July in the latter year by a two-inch water fall, and after this, until September 12, copious showers fell, reviving the grass and bringing up corn, pumpkins, buckwheat, etc., that had lain in the ground from one to tAvo months. It was really to the settlers from the north almost summer weather up till January 14, when the county was visited by a snow two feet deep. Of these years 1860-68-70-74 were bad drouths, very little produce being raised in the county. Neither were total failures, however, as there were farms that produced from one- fourth to three- fourths of a crop of corn. In 1870 the early planted corn was a total failure, but the late plant made a fair crop. There were potatoes, turnips and other vegetables produced from timely rains that set in about July 20. In 1874 there was a visitation of grasshoppers that would have taken everything had there not been a drouth. The subsequent record is made up in three-month periods, excepting the three first winter months, commenc- ing with March, 1877, after that with December. The reason for this is the custom of people saying, "Much moisture in the winter months insure good crops the next year." This failing, a wet spring means the same thing. With the ground saturated at planting time, a fair crop has followed every year except 1891. The failures, or nearly total failures, have been in 1868-70-74-80-88- 90-1900-01, but good crops have not always been harvested in years of the usual and annual rain fall as, witness these figures : YEARS OF FAIR TO GOOD CROPS. YEARS OF FAILURES AND PARTIAL FAILURES. 1877 21.52 1870 28. 1881 18.32 1880 9.23 1884 16.94 1887 21.89 1895 .^ 14.21 1888 22.01 1893 21.24 1890 25.28 The period when there was the greatest precipitation, whether it be before the growing season or after it, had much to do with these failures ' in some instances, but the chief cause was the prevailing southwest winds, which have been properly named sirocco. Notwithstanding, the record is not a bad one for the forty years of cultivation of the soil in Cloud county. The aA-erage of the cereals, wheat, com, rye and oats being as good as in any other county of the state or as any state of the United States. The extraord- inary richness of the soil making up for the lack of moisture. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 113 RAIN AND MELTED SNOW. By periods of three months, commencing March i, 1877. March to June. . . '. 3.51 June to Septem'ber 12.44 September to December 5.58 Total for last nine months 21.53 1877-78. December to March 2.57 Marcri" to June 5.06 June to September 19-40 Septem'ber to December 2.go Total for the year 29.93 1878-79. December to March 8.4 March to June 4-33 June to September 10.89 September to December 7.55 Total 23.61 1879-80. Deicember to March 8.7 March to June 3-49 June to Septemlber 10.28 September to December 4.58 Total 19.22 1880-81. December to March 3.74 March ito June S.44 June to September 7.09 September to Decem'ber 2.05 Total 18.32 1881-82. Deceniber to March 1. 18 March to June. 8.34 June to Septerriber 9.60 September to December 2.32 Total 21.44 i 1882-83. December to March 1.17 March to June 4.34 June to Septem'ber 11.09 (No rain in Ai^ust) September to December 5.15 Total 21.7s 1883-84. December to Mandh i.S4 March to June (June .60) 6.66 June to September S-83 September to December 2.91 Total 16.94 1884-85. December to March 3.93 March to June % 7.61 (March .12, April 5.36) June to September 9.47 September to Deoemlber 5.08 Total 26.09 1885-86. December to March 3.52 March to June 10.51 June to September 8.36 Septem'ber to December 6.29 Totel 28.68 1886-87. December to March 1.86 March to June 8,33 (March .06) June, to September 8.56 September to December 2.84 (October no rain or snow) Total 21.89 Decemiber to March 61 (Decemiber only a trace) Mardi to June 7.85 (May 5-45) June to September 11. 12 (June 4.80, July 1.51) September to December 2.43 Total 22.01 1888-89. December to March 1.62 March to June 9.22 (May 4.86) June" to September 14-34 (June 2.01, July 8.66, Aug. 3.67) September to Dacem'ber 4.14 Total 29.32 1889-go. Decemiber to March 1.47 (No rain or snow in December) March to June 4-47 June to Septem'ber 6.52 (July .12, August 3.13) September to December 3.31 (Disastrous drouth this year.) Total 15-77 1890-91. December to March i.gp' (Mo rain or snow in December) March to June 10,34 June to Septem'ber 9.53 (June 5.64, July 3.27, Aug. .57) Seotemher to Decemiber 7.32 Total 29.18 I 1891-92. Decem'ber to March 3-6i March to June 12.27 (May 8.34) June to September 5.77 (June -92) Sentember to December 1.31 Total 22.96 114 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 1(592-93. December to March 1.58 (Jan. .06, Feb. .29) March to Juri'e 3.83 (March .62, April .66) June to Septernber 12.80 (June 6.85) September to December 3.23 Total 21.44 1893-94. December to Mardh 1.37 March to June 6.64 (.March .28, April 2.86, May 3.50) June to September 12.63 (June 11.36, July .87, Aug. .40) September to December 3.35 lotal 23.99 1894-95. December to Mardh 2.48 (February 1.68) March to June 1.43 June to September 8.58 (June 3.64, July 1.02, Aug. 3.92) September to December 2.21 Total 14.70 I 1895-96. December to March 70 (No moisture in Delcember) March to June 7.67 (March .38, April 1,92, May 5.37) June to September 11.02 (June 1.50, July 6.86, Aug. 2.86) September to December 6.83 Total 26.22 1896-97. December to Mardh 1.38 (No moisture in Dec.) March to June 4.33 June to Septem'ber 15-56 (June 7.39, July 6.02) September to December 7.82 (Sept. .92, Oct. 6.8g, Nov. .71) Total 29.09 1897-98. December to March jjg M.ircli to June 5.36 June to September 7,58 September to December 6.33 Total 22.53 1898-99. December to March 2. March to June g^g (May 5-6s) June to September 12.30 (June 6.75, July 3.65) Septemlber to Deloeniber 6.83 Total 29.62 1809-1900. December to March 2.62 March to June 7.96 June to September 7.64 September to December 7.06 Total 25.28 1900-01. December to March 1.99 March to June 7.52 June to September 4.46 September to December 4.44 1902-03. *December to March 1.97 I June to September 17.08 JMarch to June '10.46 September to December 6.66 December to March 2.70 *From Nov. i, 1900, Ito April 21, 1902, the lotal waterfall was 2.06, which was the least for that length of time in the history of the county. tFor May the fall was 9.46 inches. JFor June the water fall was 9.21 inches. There was almost a total failure of the corn crop in 1900, notwith- standing a good crop has been raised years of less timely seasons. The reason is found in the prevalence of the intensely hot south and southwest winds, the latter being a genuine sirocco. SURFACE. The surface of the county presents a beautifully diversified view of bottom and uplands, the latter .stretching awav for many miles and affording many standpoints from which a fine panoramic view can be obtained of the fine cultivated farms, the river courses, the winding of the creeks with their banks of foliage, all contribute to the vista of rural beauty. Cloud county has no lakes except Lake Sibley; there are no swamps or sloughs like in the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 115 south and Middle Eastern states, and consequently escapes noxious exhala- tions so conduci\^e to malaria and its attendant ills. SOIL. The soil of Cloud county, generally speaking, is of a fine rich loam, varying in color, darker or lighter in the different localities, and all infused in a greater or less degree with sand. The extent of the soil is deep, aver- aging upon the highlands three feet or more, and on the bottom lands near the rivers and creeks it reaches a depth of from ten to a dozen feet of alluvial deposit, ranking with the most superior land of the known world, and the best adapted to corn. Many contend the uplands are the best for wheat growing. The highlands are fertile, being enriched with a vegetable mold. In favorable years only an approximate limit could be fixed on the produc- tive possibilities of either. Potters' clay has been found in several localities, particularly in the vicinity of Clyde. HORTICULTURE. Notwithstanding the fruit industry has sometimes met with repeated fail- ures, this branch of enterprise is successfully carried on by many people of Cloud county, and in various instances with excellent returns, as referred to in many personal sketches. There are many apple orchards which yield abundantly and possess as fine a flavor as could be found anywhere; peaches and plums also do well. LAKE SIBLEY. Lake Sibley is the only similar body of water in Cloud county. It runs nearly parallel with the Republican river. It is somewhat wider than the river, is about three miles distant from it, is semi-circular in form, and is approximately three miles in length. Its banks are covered with a fine growth of treeSj which lend a special charm to its serene beauty. At one time it was supposed the town of Sibley, which was located about a quarter of a mile north of this pretty sheet of water, would become a city of some magnitude, — a more beautiful site for a town could not be found. The water of the lake is cool, the result of being fed by many springs, and is well stocked with fish, mostly of the carp specie. The water varies in depth from three to twelve feet. The land surroimding the lake is high and not marshy, as might be inferred, and the soil is of great richness. STRANGE SUICIDE IN LAKE SIELEY. In March, 1890, the community in the vicinity of Lake Sibley were startled by a rumor of the drowning of two women. Upon in\-estigation it ii6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. \\'as confiniied and the names of the unfortunate victims were Adell and Hannah Poore. Coroner Dr. Pigman and County Attorney S. D. Huston were notified and at once drove to the north shore of the lake, where the bodies were found in about three feet of water and about ten feet apart. A jury was summoned and an investigation had, which rendered a verdict of "suicide by drowning." Many tlieories were given as to the cause leading to such a desperate act, but the only -one rendering any degree of probability is that they were tired of living. They were aged respectively thirty-two and thirty-five years, and both unmarried. They boarded .with a family in the neighborhood and had a brother who, with a family, lived near by, and with whom they were on friendly terms. The affair was a very peculiar one. They were in good circumstances financially, having cash in hand, real estate in Concordia and Beloit, and a good farm in Cloud county. It was also, reported that they had eastern property. Four years prior to their suicides, they had taught in the high school of Concordia and ranked as first-grade teachers. Miss Adell Poore, the elder of the two, taught in the Clyde school in 1889. It is a remarkable case and singular, that the two sisters should arri^'e at such a tragic fate without an apparent cause. They were easily tracked and by the footprints, it was plainly discerned that the younger of the two women had faltered or showed a disposition to hesitate; the elder going to her doom first, as she was fur- ther from the shore and perhaps the first to drown. "Rough on Rats" was found to have been in their possession, ostensibly for the purpose of end- ing their lives if drowning became too formidable. They walked deliberately into the lake, laid down and were suffocated. The evidence showed that melancholy and gloom had settled upon them, rendering life not worth the struggle. They were honest women, who liore unblemished reputations and were absolutely without the association of the opposite sex. The father, mother and three sisters had succumbed to a lingering consumption, and knowing for them a similar fate ^^'as destined, they resolutely determined to curtail a long illness by committing this terrible deed. SIBLEY BUTTE. About three miles north of Lake Sibley is a high point of ground known in the early settlement of the county as "Sibley Butte." From this promJnence a birds-eye view for twenty miles or more can be obtained — one of the finest views in the country. The meanderings of the Republican river, Buffalo. Wolf and Oak creeks are plainly outlined by the markings of tim- ber that fringe these streams. TWIN MOUNDS. From the summits of the twin mounds, two cone-shaped elevations sit- uated near the source of Elm creek, a fine view is gained for many miles HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 117 around; also a magnificent view of the Republican river valley, stretching far away upon either side, a vast undulating plain of rich, cultivated fields. WATER COURSES OF CLOUD COUNTY^ INDUSTRIES, TOWNS, ETC. '" The Republican and Solomon are two beautiful water courses and almost ever}' acre of land in Cloud county can be utilized. Much of the soil has an underlying strata of lime and sandstone, the former predominating, and is supposed to impart a strong fertilizing quality to the soil. The bottom soil is alluvial in character and the upland a vegetable mold, both very rich in quality and capable of producing almost everything known to the vegetable kingdom. The Republican river runs in a southeasterly direction through the northern part of the county. Its tributaries are Elk, Upton, Salt, Hay and Camp creeks from the north, and Mulberry, Beaver, Elm, Plum, Oak, Lost, Wolf and Buffalo creeks from the south. The Solomon river runs through the southwest slope of the divide; its tributaries are Fisher, Criss, Mortimer, Yockey and Pipe creeks; of the latter there are three streams bearing that name, viz : Big Pipe, Middle Branch and East Branch ; the two latter are tributaries of Pipe creek. The surface is undulating, with numerous draws and depressions, which carry off the surplus moisture, and' as a result, there are nO' pools of water left standing to stagnate and breed malaria. The general altitude of Cloud county is one thousand five ■ hundred feet above the sea level and the air is dry and rare; hence a healthful and salubrious climate. There is a total of 460,800 acres in the county and the staple products are wheat, corn, kaffir corn and oats. Sorghum and broom corn grow splendidly in this locality, the soil being specially adapted to their produc- tion. There is rarely a total failure, but sometimes fall short of an average crop in exceeding dry seasons. The soil does not wear otit, for nature has furnished an inexhaustible fertilizer. The stock industry is carried on extensively and successfully. The herd law has been in force since 1877. To A. J. Shelhammer belongs much of the honor of having Cloud created a herd law county. He was one of the original herd law men. In the southeast part of the county is an abundance of building stone. There are quarries of red sandstone well adapted for building purposes. It is easily worked when fresh from the quarry and hardens when exposed to the atmosphere. In. some parts of the county a beautiful white magnesia limestone is found overlaying a sandstone in inexhaustible quantities, and when dressed bears a strong resemblance to marble. Coal has been found in some localities in paying quantities. There are beds of potters" clay near Clyde and in Shirley township. At one time there were potteries in each of the localities named and the manufacturers turned out excellent work. ii8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. but owing to the scarcity of wood for fuel they could not compete with the eastern factories and discontinued the industry. Cloud county is justly proud of her educational facilities and there is no excuse for illiteracy, as all the territory in the county has been organized into districts. Concordia, the county seat, is one of the most progressive and solid towns in the northwest. It is particularly fortunate in numbering so many among its citizens and business men who are so enthusiastically interested and who always have the welfare of their metropolitan city at heart. Clyde is the second town of importance in the county and is an up-to- date thriving little city, beautifully situated on the east bank of the Repub- lican river. Glasco, in the southwestern part of the county and on the Solomon river, and Jamestown, in the northwestern part of the county in the beau- tiful Buffalo creek valley, are the next in importance, and Miltonvale, in the southwest corner. Much of the prosperity in the early settlement of Cloud county was due to the fact that it lay west of the sixth principal meridian, over which the land speculator could not go, but the whole domain, except what was given to schools and the railroads, was supposed to be sacredly preserved for the actual settler who rapidly occupied every available quarter section. Cloud county, as shown by the state board of agriculture for the year 1884, had a crop of 131,576 acres of corn, giving it 2,469 acres more of corn than any other county of the state. In 1896 the banks of Cloud county had on deposit $200,000, of which the least per cent, belonged to the farmer. In 1900 they exceeded $640,000, of which over 60 per cent, belonged to the tillers of the soil. The brilliant success in our cities and great mining fields and the vari- ous speculative deals attract attention. When we hear of some lucky fellow rolling up a fortune in a few years, many are seized with a desire to cease plodding, toiling on the farm, when he might with less labor make thou- sands as a speculator, politician, business man in the city, or in the fabulous mining districts. But no surer road to financial gain and success can be found than through the avenues of farming and stock raising in Kansas. We say for- tunes, for we have the assurances from numbers of farmers that the profits on the sale of grain from one hundred and sixty acres of fertile land, in either the Solomon or Republican valleys, raised in one year, has paid for the land. Where is there a country that an investment can yield better returns than this? Cloud county is purely agricultural and almost every farmer has a comfortable bank account. While perhaps the first and second bottoms are to be preferred, there is much desiralile land on the uplands, and. where quite rough and the tops of the numerous mounds are almost a solid mass of rocks, on the hillside is found a rich and alluvial soil. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 119 SCENIC LANDSCAPE. When driving through the Solomon and Repubhcan valleys the thought often presents itself, how delighted the first comers must have been \\ith the view of the landscape as presented from one of the many prominences overlooking these beautiful valleys with their ever changing lights and shad- ows. What a feast for the eye of an artist; what an inspiration must have filled their souls, and one cannot wonder at the Indian for so reluctantly yielding this vast hunting ground. The landscape is diversified by culti- vated fields, intersected by little creeks, whose banks are skirted by trees, bottom lands, plateaus and hills. The author has witnessed these- valleys in their happiest moods — Springtime, autumn and Indian summer, all of which are beautiful beyond description. In the springtime when the air was laden with the perfume of leaf and blossom and a chorus of birds discoursed their sweet warblings, the orchards lost in a wealth of bloom, and the brown hills and pastures don- ning their robes of green. In the autumn when the first frost lightly touches the foliage, nature vies with and outrivals the alluring springtime, the mellow opal sky melting into gold and crimson in the west, the windows of the farmhouse aglow with the flame of the sunset, which serves as a calcium light to the great panorama of undulating hills, sweeping far away in a long stretch toward the Solomon or the Republican rivers. Nature never smiled on a fairer scene or where one could lose themselves in sweeter reverie. And again, in the Indian summer, when the wide landscape is over- spread with a soft mellow haze, just after the breath of the hot summer days have died away, and the autumn is adA^ancing, summer having gath- ered her last blossoms, and the leaves of the quivering cottonwoods being swiftly hurled to the earth, there is a subtle witchcraft in the smoky atmos- phere and every sound is one of harmony. The departed summer looks backward with a sigh of lingering regret, as if to delay the early frosts of winter. AUTUMN SUNSET. From these promontories the writer has enjoyed some of the most gorgeous sunsets. As the sun sinks low in the west a flood of color over- spreads the earth and sky, shading from softest pinks and grays to the most intense crimson and gold. As the twilight deepens they change to softer gray. The purple hills are outlined at the horizon, making a background of charming effect. If one could transfer to canvas all these lovely impressions, all this profusion of light and color that delights the eye and gives inspiration to the soul, the result would be magnificent. Restful contentment comes with 120 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the dying day when the evening shadows fall, in the country remote from the busy mart when labors and cares are thrust aside for the time being and the twilight deepens, the whole atmosphere thrills with melody. Sometimes it' comes to us in the midst of care and the irksome routine of business. It turns the dull prose of life into poetry and showers of sunshine are flung over the weary hours. ADVANTAGES AND ATTRACTIONS. How gratifying it must be to the old settlers who have lived to witness the boundless prairies transformed into cultivated fields, the rude cabin and dugout supplanted by handsome residences and a school system second to none in the United States. Time has wrought many changes in a social way, old friends and comrades have been separated, not a few have gone to "that undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns," some wandered back to their former eastern homes, otliers with that ever restless spirit that marks a certain character of people have pushed further west, or perhaps into the Indian territory, while many still remain in the home of their adoption and these almost universally express themselves as being lt)ath to leave the land wherein they suffered the trials and hardships . of the early settlement, the memoiy of which more deeply endears the homes secured under discouraging circumstances. Fvery country has its distinct attractions and advantages. Young men of vigorous minds and taste for adventure come west and find environments that fascinate in the whirl of busy western life; it gives a tonic effect which quickens the blood and gives vitality to hopes and ambitions. The oppor- tunities are great and they become enthused over the future prospects of this great and splendid country. Here he stands out a well defined character, while in the east the con- ditions are monopolized and all the avenues closed to the young man just emerging from the eastern academy and he comes west that he may witness his own work bear the fruits of his efforts. Almost every nationality is represented in the building up of a new countr}'. Not only the emigrant from almost every state of the Union, but many from foreign lands found homes in Kansas. The sturdy Scotch yoemen sought homesteads where they could enjoy the results of their broad acres free, unfettered and unburdened of rent. To the frugal and indus- trious German, much credit is due for the developing of the country and many of them have attractive homes and are as happy and contented as in their own Fatherland. Many emigrants came from Sweden and Norway. The great famine in Sweden caused thousands to emigrate to this country in the latter part of the 'sixties and the early 'seventies. They have made good, industrious and enterprising citizens. In the town of Clyde and the townships of Elk and Aurora, there are many French people, 1x)th Canadian and Parisian. A large number came HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 121 from the French settlement at Kankakee, 111., and settled in and about Clyde, St. Joseph and Aurora. Many of them have attractive homes. England has also numerous representatives here engaged in various enterprises. There are also a considerable number of Danes and Welch, most of them rewarded with comfortable homes. Many brave sons of Erin bade their own country adieu and joined the western throng to become citizens of the "New Empire," the land o'er the far distant sea. Previous to the year 1870, there were few settlers of the sixth princi- pal meridian, and this country was considered part of the Great American Desert, inhabited by the murderous and hostile red man, who fled west with the appearance of civilization. "He broke his bowstring, Snapped his arrows, Threw them upon the burial place of his fathers And departed forever." These vast prairies were awaiting the husbandman's plow to make them famous to the north, south and east, even to the Old World. At the present time no one can help but admire the condition of the farmers throughout the country. Every quarter . section is more or less improved, nearly all have comfortable homes and many of them luxurious in their appointments and attractive in their appearance. The author visited many of the homes in the country and find they compare favorably with those of the eastern states. Instead of the room usually about ten by twelve in dimensions, dug down in the side of the hill, covered with dirt, and which often presented a pitiable sight after a rain or a freshet, with its little smoky stove in one corner, the drenched bed clothes in another, and its inmates tramping in the mud of the dirt floor, we now find comfortable homesi,. and these same people wonder how they ever existed under those circumstances. An occa- sional ruin of a dugout is left standing as a monument to pioneer days, and in a few instances they are occupied; but there is an improvement over those of the early settlement, being more modern, showing proofs of progress even in the building of dugouts. A TRIBUTE TO THE WOMEN OF KANSAS. The women of Kansas have suffered equally with, if not more than the men, and were quite as heroic; but in relating the valor of her "liege lord" she is forgotten in story and song. Woman's strength lies in her heart, and her patient endurance is proverbial. Amidst privation and over work the}' kept before their eyes a vision of success, a happy home for the future, which gave ah impetus to their courage and hopes that stimulated their light heartedness. 122 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Though the women hved in log cabins or the more primitive dugouts, ■with their hopeful contentment they made it shine with a luster that is often lacking in the palaces of kings and queens. They talked up their country and gave encouragement to every useful enterprise that came within their midst. Their lives were not devoid of romance or excitement alto- gether. Most of the early settlers were a mirth-loving people; they were full of the milk of human kindness and sympathy for their fellow pioneers. They were full of hope, of ambitions that were not frustrated. Sentiment entwined itself around these beautiful valleys and they became attached to their homes in the "New Empire." SOCIETY IN THE EARLY 'SEVENTIES. The citizens were on an equality in point of dress and finance. Their wardrobes did not often consist of more than two garments, either in win- ter or summer, the residence of a iew years exhausting the clothes they brought with them. They often times resorted to all kinds of economy. The men wore ragged shirts and trousers, the material of which was ren- dered problematical by vari-colored patches. One of the old-timers related how his overalls were entirely worn out at the knees and had been patched repeatedly. So to even things up, as it were, his sister cut off the legs, turned them around, sewing them on vith the reverse side to the front, thus enabling him to attend Sunday school in the regular order until times permitted of the purchase of a new pair. Nevertheless, we dare conjecture that even in this predicament the man from Missouri did not forget his chivalrous Chesterfieldian bearing and his appreciation for etiquette. The women wore their calico dresses and sun bonnets to church, and the new comer who had not been introduced into the society of the fron- tier, were often a subject of ridicule for appearing in their superior apparel. Often times you would see a head crowned by what had been a hat. Many men \\ent barefooted or thrust their sockless pedal extremities into great cowhide shoes. A prominent citizen of Concordia related his first glimpse of a dance in the far west, the substance of which is as follows : "The time and occasion was the glorious Fourth. There was the usual Fourth of July addresses, orations, lemonade stands, etc., bi5t the chief attraction to this spectator was the mazy dance given on a platform in the open air. The fair maidens in muslin and calico gowns were not the but- terflies of society as it is to-day, but buxom lasses of the Kansas prairies, who blushed and smiled as some love-sick swain with calloused bare feet, perhaps, or coverings of leather with holes cut in them to accommodate some peculiar pedal excresences, balanced and bowed or whirled her in the alluring quadrille, while the 'fiddler' sawed 'Arkansas Traveler,' or 'Devil's Dream,' and the prompter shouted, 'Pleavens to Betsy, and six hands round,' etc., etc. "It was a wide open, free-for-all galop, where the most ill-assorted HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 123 pairs pirouetted over the platform. There was the lath-legged youth in the glory of his paper collar, with his graceful partner of liberal avoirdupois bumping about like June bugs in a dark room. Then there was the tall man who had selected for his partner a maiden whose dimpled chin struck him about the waist line, and the timid youth was observed holding his partner as. if he feared she might not have a clean bill of health, while another held on like a sheriff with a writ of attachment. "The women danced well, but what chance would a graceful woman have in the grasp of some specimen of ungainly masculinity whose grasp would throttle the exhaust of a locomotive. This does not apply indiscrim- inately to the society at that time, but there is an element similar to this in all new countries and some not so new. Although their dancing was not exactly the poetry of motion, thej^ had gathered together from all parts of the country, and it was a halcyon day of genuine pleasure long to be remembered. Perhaps they saw themseh'es as others seen them, for there has been a complete modification in the code of ball .room ethics." KANSAS WIND, AS" SHP: IS BLOWN. The Kansas winds have been harnessed by hundreds and thousands of windmills. For the benefit of readers who may be unfamiliar with the various definitions of Kansas wind, as she is blown, the Columbus Advo- cate makes the following classification : "Zephyr — Wind not to exceed twenty miles an hour. "Breeze — Wind not faster than fifty miles an hour. "Draught — Wind after it has developed speed sufficient to exert suction. "A Little Blow — Wind not faster than ninety miles an hour. ■ "Real Blustery — When it becomes necessary to hang rocks on school houses to keep them from going along with the atmosphere and for the merchants to lariat their signs. ,.,.-' "^: "Tornado — Any wind doing sufficient damage to give farmers a grip- on the insurance company. "Cyclone — A tornado with a cork screw tail and a brusque way of doing things, especially barns and churches." There are many windy and disagreeable days that seem almost unbear- able, but when the merry month of May comes and the blustering winds are oven the birds holding concerts of matchless melody in the trees and hedges, and the sun smiles serenely, one forgets that the winds ever blew so furiously and almost reproach themseh'es for having mentioned it com- plainingly. KANSAS CYCLONES. The following item, clipped from Peck's Sun, is apropos of the sub- ject and the idea prevalent among eastern people regarding Kansas cyclones : 124 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. "The little town of Clyde, Kansas, is mighty full of vinegar for a place of its size. The principal amusement the boys have there is to scare, the day- lights out of visitors from the states by telling big stories about cyclones. "There are two young fellows in business there named Will May and Charley Armstrong. They have a store where they buy butter, and eggs, and things, and pack them for the eastern market. Last June, Uncle Arm- strong, father of Charley, and a young fellow named Charley Farmers, were out there visiting. The hosts entertained the guests to the most hair- standing stories about cyclones, until they were so nervous they couldn't sleep at night. "One night the guests had retired, and the zephyr was pretty loud. Will and Charley got into the room adjoining that occupied by the guests, and began to talk about funnel-shaped clouds, ti'ees torn up by the roots, horses flying through the air, and wagons being taken up bodily and carried away, talking so the guests could hear them. Then they prayed for strength to pull them through the fearful ordeal, and, pretending that a cyclone was upon them, they started down stairs, head over appetite, to get into the refrigerator in the cellar, for safety, yelling to the guests to fly for their lives. "Uncle Armstrong is getting pretty well along in years, but he got down to the cellar about ten stairs ahead of young Farmer, and asked to be allowed to get into the refrigerator first. It seemed a little cruel to the boys to let the guests get in there with nothing on but their undershirts, but they were going to have some fun, so they put them in among the cakes of ice, and Uncle Armstrong sat down on the zinc floor and allowed that if his life was spared till morning he would never set foot in Kansas again. Young Farmer sat on a firkin of butter, and leaned against the zinc lined side of the refrigerator and tried to pray, but he had forgotten the combination, and couldn't make a first payment. "Will and Charley went up stairs ostensibly to lock the safe, but really to go on with the program. The first thing they did was to fire off a shot- gun, and roll a keg of shingle-nails down the cellar stairs, and yell to the guests in the refrigerator to look out for God's sake, as the house was struck by lightning. "Young Farmer got down off the firkin, and got on his knees, and tried to repeat some Sunday school lesson, but all he could thing of was, 'Evil communications corrupt two in the bush.' The old gentleman, who was struck in the small of the back by a piece of ice that fell off some butter, thought he was struck by lightning; so he began to sing, 'A charge to keep I have.' "The boys up stairs got a bag of buckshot, and opened it, and every little while would throw a handful onto the outside cellar door, right above the heads of the freezing occupants of the refrigerator, at the same tinr- pounding a piece of sheet iron to make thunder. They kept this up for an hour, and then got a barrel, and filled it with broken glass and pieces of HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 125 crockery, and they would roll it across the floor above, while one would take an ax and pound on &ome bar iron that was leaning against the wall, making a most hideous noise. "Charley Farmer said he supposed he was as well prepared to die as he ever would be, but he said he would give ten dollars if he had his pants down there. "Uncle Armstrong asked him what difference it made whether he had his pants on or not, and Charley said he didn't want to be ushered into the New Jerusalem with all his sins on his head, before the angels, and nothing on but a knit undershirt. "They were discussing this question when Will May crawled down stairs with a tin wash-boiler, and just as Charley rolled the barrel of broken window glass down the cellar stairs. Will mashed the boiler against the refrigerator, and both gave vent to a dying groan, closed their e}'es and then all was still. "The prisoners thought it was all over, and they didn't stir for about ten minutes. They thought the house had blown away, and left them alivt, and they were inclined to be thankful even for that, when Charley and \Vill came down and opened the refrigerator, and told them the storm was over, but it was the almightiest cyclone that ever passed over Kansas." DISASTROUS CYCLONE IN CLOUD AND CLAY COUNTIES. A funnel-shaped . terror in the form of a cyclone visited Cloud and Clay counties on May 2, 1895, dealing death and destruction. There were six fatalities and the more or less serious injury to about thirty people, scores of farm buildings were razed to the ground, live stock killed, orchards and groves despoiled. The storm was entirely unhearalded; there had been a slight atmos- pheric disturbance all day, but late in the afternoon, rain fell and all mis- givings of the elements had been restored. Just before dark, through the scud of low, flying clouds could be seen a great unbroken mass, heavy with moisture. The air was humid, and upon the horizon lay a light fog. The wind shifted, went and came in fitful gusts, and rain fell at irregular inter- vals. About 9:15 a rumbling noise was heard about three miles south- east of Miltonvale and the next moment a flash of lightning revealed its origin. A great funnel-shaped cloud was outlined against the sky, its taper" end dipped the earth. The next flash revealed another, but similar shaped cloud moving at a rapid transit toward the first, both obliquely inclined toward the earth, like ships driven abreast of a furious gale. In a moment the two monster appearing forms were merged together, and then followed destruction in their wake. Through the influence of a counter current the cylcone suddenly veered and started northward toward St. Joseph, and from this point in a general northeasterly coitrse through the northwest corner of Clay county. It leaped the Republican river between Clifton and Mor- 126 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ganville and terminated within a few rods of the Washington county line on the farm of A. Balston, having traveled a total of twenty miles; its greatest width did not exceed three-quarters of a mile. The home of Eli Baltagor was obliterated as it w-ere, himself and wife killed and their six children all more or less severely wounded. In Clay coimtv, east of the river, four lives were lost, seventeen persons badly injured and many homes destroyed and scattered with the winds. WAGON BRIDGE OVER THE REPUBLICAN RIVER AT CONCORDIA. February 29, 1876, the people O'f Sibley and Lincoln townships voted on the bonds to build a bridge across the Republican river at Concordia. The amount required was ten thousand dollars, seven thousand five hundred VicKERs Bridge on Wolf Creek. (Seven miles southwest of Concordia, where three men were accidentally killed about nine years ago.) dollars for Lincoln and two thousand five hundred dollars for Sibley. The bonds carried by a large majority. The vote stood sixty-three for, and twenty-one against. The bridge was completed in the autumn of the same year and on September zj, 1876, a grand bridge celebration took place at Concor- dia. The program consisted of the grand triumphial procession from the two sides of the river which met on the bridge, where the ceremony of driving the finishing golden spike took place and other dedicatory cere- monies followed by a fitting oration by the Honorable E. J. Jenkins, and congratulatory addresses on behalf of the united townships of Sibley and Lincoln. I HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 127 RAILROADS. The first railroad bonds in Cloud county were voted in 1872 to the Central Branch Railroad Company (two hundred thousand dollars). It was lucky for the county that the company failed to come to time, and the bonds were forfeited. In 1877 they got the railroad for seventy thou- sand dollars of eight per cent thirty year bonds. The people of the Repub- lican valley needed a railroad that they might secure adequate transporta- tion facilities to the great markets and commercial centers of the country, and for a vast number of 3'ears untiring efforts were made to secure one. Delegates were sent to confer with the people of Atchison and Junction City with regard to the extension of the Central Branch of the Junction City and Fort Kearney Railroad into their fair and fertile country. It was becoming more and more evident each day that before many months, there must be a railroad in the Republican valley, and propositions were being received. August 7, 1876, a railroad convention was held at Clyde, in which the Concordia people joined, and all worked in harmony. Many speeches were made, the following well known men participating: Honorable S. D. Houston, Judge Borton, Judge L. Westover, the two' latter of Clyde; L. J. Crans, J. M. Hagaman, W. E. Reid, Judge Strain and Honorable E. J. Jenkins, all of Concordia; the latter was chosen chaimian of the Clyde railroad committee. He briefly stated the object of the meeting and sug- gested that they take into consideration the railroad situation, and confer as to the best mode of obtaining what they all wanted — a railroad. He then moved that Theodore Laing be chosen chairman, which \\'as carried unanimously. H. Buckingham and W. E. Reid were chosen secretaries, and the following gentlemen were appointed a committee on^' resolutions : James Strain, E. J. Jenkins, M. McKinnon, J. M. Hagaman, \A'. S. Crump, A. W. Campbell and F. K. Teter. On motion, Messrs. Heins and Cooper, of Washington county, were added to the committee. The meeting was a success, and much good resulted from it. .Judge Borton, in his happy manner, moved that, "Every man be a committee of one to talk railroad — blow railroad until the cars come whizzing up the Republican," which was adopted with loud applause. We find that in November the "Republican Valley Railroad Company" was incorporated with a capital stock of nine hun- dred thousand dollars, divided into nine thousand shares. Its place of busi^ ness was Corcordia, the number of directors thirteen, viz : E. J. Jenkins, R. F. Allen, Frederick La Rocque, F. W. Sturges, M. McKinnon, W. E. Reid, H. Buckingham, William Conner, all of Concordia; W. S. Crump and J. M. Jones, of Clyde; Cyrille Lafond, of Shirley; R. Berry, of Clifton, and D. T. Smonse, of Peach Creek. The road was to run from a point on the Waterville & Western Railroad, at or near the town of Greenleaf, Washington county, through the counties of Washington, Clay and Cloud, to Concordia. Estimated length of railroad, fifty miles. Another year 128 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. passed and still they had not succeeded, and it was becoming more evident that the extension of a railroad to Concordia was a dire necessity, when the farmers could no longer haul their thousands of bushels of grain, forty or fifty miles to market, entailing many hardships as weill as loss of time in hauling. On July 5, 1877, .a special election was held for the purpose of voting upon the question of a subscription , bj' Cloud county for six hundred and forty shares of one thousand dollars each of capital stock of Junction City and Fort Kearney Railway Company, and in payment thereof, issuing to the railroad company sixty-four of the county bonds of the denomination of one thousand dollars each, or as many as would amount to four thousand dollars per mile of road constructed in the county, and made payable to the bearer at the fiscal agency of the state of Kansas in New York City, thirty years after date, bearing interest at the rate of eight per cent per annum, payable annually. An election was called for the same day for the purpose of voting upon the question of subscription by Cloud county for seven hundred shares of one thousand dollars each of the capital stock with the Republican Valley Railroad Company, and in payment therefor, issuing to said railroad company seventy of the county bonds of the denomination of one thousand dollars, or to the amount of four thousand dollars per mile for each mile of railroad constructed. When the election was over and the fight ended it was found that the Republican Valley Railroad bonds had been voted, and the Junction City and Fort Kearney bonds defeated. President Pomeroy, of the Central Branch road, visited the Republi- can valley in the interest of his road, and was delighted with the result of the election in Cloud county, and with the substantial growth and develop- ment of the Republican valley region. He pronounced it the richest and most beautiful country he had ever seen, "A perfect agricultural, paradise." The contract for building the road was awarded to Wiley & Wilder, and was to be completed from Greenleaf to Concordia by December 5, 1877. The people of Cloud county were jubilant over the prospect of seeing their fondest hopes realized — the locomotive steaming out of their fertile country laden with the products of their young commonwealth, and to herald to the world the coming to pass of the prophecy, "The desert shall bloom as a rose." A special, the first train over the Central Branch, arrived in Concordia Monday, January 28, 1878, at about 4 130 p. M. On board were the offi- cials of the road and many of Atchison's prominent business men. At Clyde they made an hour's stop and were joined by Judge Borton, and many others. They were received at the depot in Concordia by Mayor Rea- soner and a large number of citizens from all parts of the country, with the Concordia Cornet Band, and banners floating in profusion. Their enthu- siasm was unbounded. After the usual ceremony of firing guns, "hurrah- ing" and handshaking all around, the excursionists were preceded by the 130 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. band and escorted to the hotel, where supper- was served, after which the crowd convened at La Rocques's Hall at seven o'clock. The hall was filled to overflowing to listen to speeches, congratulating the Central Railroad Company for their assistance, energy and enterprise in pushing the road through to Concordia. A speech of welcome was made by Mayor Reasoner, followed by Colo- nel E. J. Jenkins, who tendered one and all the freedom of their thriving metropolis. Speeches were made by Major Downs, the superintendent of the road, to whose untiring energy in pushing the road to a consummation the people felt under deep obligation. Judge Borton, Clyde's gifted and inimitable funny speaker, and without whom an occasion of this kind would not have been appropriately celebrated, made one of his characteristic talks. Captain John Seaton eulogized- the metropolis of northwestern Kansas, and its enterprising people. F. W. Sturg-es, in his eloquent way, paid a fitting tribute to the completion of the most important enterprise in the history of Concordia and Cloud county. Major Marvin, chief engineer of the Central Branch Railroad, addressed the people, congratulating them upon this important event. It was a g'ala day for Cloud county. Every- body was jubilant, bubbling over with enthusiasm and good feeling. Flags and bunting streamed from every building, giving an air of patriotism to the occasion, and adding to the unmistakable evidence everywhere' that this was the proudest and happiest day Concordia ever witnessed. The Central Branch extension is one of the best constructed roads in the state. The bridge work is of the most durable character, especially is this true of the bridge which spans the Republican river at Clyde, which is a splendid specimen of architecture, massive timber and perfect construc- tion, and has been pronounced one of the best in the state. The Central Branch was extended to Cawker City (then the county seat of Mitchell county), fifty-one miles distant from Concordia, May 13, 1879. November 17, 1878, Jay Gould became the leading owner of the Mis souri Pacific & Central Branch. He controlled about half the miles of rail- way in the state. On the evening of Saturday, March 8, 1879, there was an enthusiastic meeting held by the people of Concordia, who assembled at La Rocques' Hall to discuss the extension of the Junction City and Fort Kearney Branch of the Kansas Pacific Railroad to their city. Mr. Smeed, chief engineer of the Kansas Pacific Railroad, who was sent to look over the proposed route, and to confer with the people he came in contact v«th, was present. Mr. Smeed was to report, what in his judgment, could be done with the promise from the management that they would act according to his report. Resolutions were then submitted wherein the people of Cloud count pledged themselves to do all in their power, in effort, energy and in voting all the bonds possible to secure the result, and requested the several town- ships to join in their efforts to secure the needed road, etc. A vote on the adoption of the resolutions were then taken and a more unanimous vote HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 131 was never polled. Every man in the house who was a citizen of Lincoln township voted in the affirmative. The Clyde people did not favor the project. ■' On the 1 0th day of June, 1879, a special election was held in Con- cordia for the purpose of voting upon the question of a subscription of stock and issue of fifty-six thousand dollars bonds to the Junction City & Fort Kear- ney Railroad Company by the township of Lincoln. The bonds were carried by a majority of two hundred and eighty-eight in Lincoln, and fifty-five in Lawrence. The result was gratifying to the people of Concordia, as it meant more enterprise would find its way to their city. Not a single Concordian voted against the bonds. January i, 1881-, trains on this railroad stopped running into Concor dia. The turn table was taken up and removed to Clyde, the depot locked and the agent went to Kansas City, and no more business was transacted. The doors and windows were nailed up and the tall, rank weeds grew in profusion about the place. What was once the busy depot was given over to grim desolation. The Kansas Pacific Railroad was said to have "gob- bled up" fifty-six thousand dollars worth of bonds, aiid given Concordia, Lawrenceburg and Clyde the "slip." The next move was to devise a wa; to keep from paying the bonds voted. W'. E. Reid journeyed to St. Loui^ where, in an interview with Jay Gould and S. H. H. Clark, general manager of the Union Pacific Railroad, in reference to the bonds voted to the Fort Kearney road by Lincoln, Lawrence and Elk townships, they assured him they would give the matter due consideration, and that the road should be operated to Concordia, or the bonds, or their equivalent be returned to the tax payers of the townships named. In July, 1 88 1, the report was circulated that the railroad was coming to Concordia by the way of Belleville without bonds or aid. As per agree ment, the Burlington & Missouri River Railway people kept out of Kansar as long as Jay Gould kept out of Nebraska, but the Missouri Pacific wels to be extended to Omaha, and the proposition to intersect as many of Jay Gould's lines as they could and make war against monopoly as a conse- quence. In the the autumn of 1879, railroad fair was reduced from four to 'three cents. Cloud county now has commimication from all points of the compass. A branch up the Republican Valley to Scandia and northward, connecting with the Burlington and Missouri Railway; also a line extaiding from Jamestown to Jewell City, Mankato and Burr Oak. The Kansas Pacific built a branch through the Solomon valley and established stations at Glasco and Simpson. The Kansas Central completed its line into Starr township, with the terminus at Miltonvale. The Burlington and Missouri Pacific ex- tended their lines from Odell via Hanover, Washington, Cuba and Wayne, to Concordia. 132 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Concordia is now one of the most flourishing railroad centers in north- west Kansas. The Burhngton and Missom-i, Santa Fe, Union Pacific and the Missouri Pacific give it connection with the east, west, north and south. ORGANIZATION OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS. To Honorable John B. Rupe, of Clyde, belongs the distinction of hav- ing organized the first school district in Cloud county, which was inaug- urated on July 15, 1868. It will be remembered Mr. Rupe was the first acting county superintendent of schools, as Doctor Lear, who was appointed, did not qualify. Mr. Rupe in this instance, acted fairly, as char- acterizes all his dealings, and gave the Elm Creek settlement, where the first school was taught, the first number, which it still retains. District No. I is in the vicinity of Ames and have just completed a very excellent new building. Upon the same principle Mr. Rupe gave the Elk Creek settlement the next numeral in line and it has likewise retained the original No. 2. When No. 2 Avas organized the territory included was all of what is now Elk township. The next in order. No. 3, is directly south of the city of Clyde, and includes the eastern part of Shirley township. The territory now occupied by the Concordia schools is District No. 4, but when it was created by Mr. Rupe he was generous enough to include all that part of Cloud count; lying in Buffalo and Sibley townships — about one-third of the entire county. District No. 5 was Glasco and the Solomon Valley settlement. Dis- trict No. 6 is the territory south of the Solomon river, in Solomon town- ship known as the Dalrymple settlement. District No. 7 included the Lake Sibley settlement, but was afterward divided, No. 7 holding the territory east and the Sibley number became 16. No. 7, owing to some differences that arose, was divided, one part thrown into the Sibley district and the remaining portion to the district on the east. The Oak Creek community immediately east of Concordia became No. 8. The Meredith neighbor- hool, located on Pipe creek, was instituted as No. 9. No. 10 was the Law- renceburg district on Salt creek, and No. 11 on Wolf creek. The districts named are known as the pioneer schools, and after they were organized others were formed in adjacent territory as the settlement advanced along the borders. A three months' term of school was required of each district before they could draw the state fund. Mr. Doran, who was the third acting superintendent of the county, reports that he gave certificates to boys and girls of very youthful age who constantlv raised their gi'ades, several of- them_ becoming very proficient. The bachelor's situation was not a very en\-iable one in those days, and to extort their share of c[UOta from some of them a penalty was established. "They could not call on the school HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 133 ma'm." In many of the districts many of the married ladies were em- ployed and taught in their own homes. There are at the present time one hvindred and six organized school districts in Cloud county, and the following joint districts: No. i, Cloud and Mitchell counties; No. 2, Cloud and Mitchell counties; No. i. Cloud and Republic counties; No. 93, Cloud and Republic counties; No. i, Cloud, Washington and Republic counties; No. 2, Cloud, Washington and Republic counties; No. i, Cloud, Clay and Washington counties; No. 29, Cloud and Ottawa counties; No. 93, Cloud and Ottawa counties. The tax is levied by the people themselves, and cannot exceed 20 mills. Some of them are low and are only able to conduct a six months" school, and this with probably inexperienced teachers. These districts, however, are in the minority and are the exception, not the rule. The highest tax levied is in the following districts: No. 3; 20 mills; No. 24, 20 mills; No. 72, 20 mills; No. 81. 20 mills; No. 86, 20 mills; No. 20, 20 mills; No. 34, 20 mills; No, 76, 20 mills; No. 85, 20 mills. GRADED SCHOOLS. No. 2, Clyde, 17 mills; No. 5, Glasco, 18 mills; No. 97, Miltonvale, 2C mills; No. 4, Concordia, 15 mills; No. 32,' Jamestown, 151^ mills; No. 104, Aurora, 20 mills. The only schools in the county that did not reduce the teachers' wages during the "panicky" years were Glasco and Hollis. The following are the lowest levies of school districts : District No. 8, 5 mills; district No. 14, 6 mills; district No. 65, 6 mills; district No. 11, 6 mills; district No. 47, 6 mills. There is a Webster's Unabridged Dictionary in every district in the county except six, and a public library in all but thirteen. These com- mendable auxiliaries are placed there by teachers generally who have given special entertainments for this purpose, often clearing from forty to fifty dollars in an evening. The general character of the library books are his- torical works and nature studies. Twenty-seven or more school liouses have organs that have been supplied in a similar way. Twenty-nine per cent of the citizens of Cloud county are enrolled in the public schools. The present and unprecedaited prosperity in Kansas is very marked in the school work of the state. Many new buildings are being erected, old school houses enlarged or remodeled, sanitary conditions improved and many of them take pride in furnishings and beautiful surroundings. Among this number is the Eureka school district No. 68. The house was erected in September, 1901. The author visited the school in the autumn of that year and found Miss Rachel Rogers installed as teacher, with an enroll- ment of but nine scholars, with an average attendance of the same number, and this is a total of the children of school age in tlie district. But it is 9 134 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of the cheerful atmosphere prevailing in this modern country building that the writer thinks worthy of note. There are but two rows of seats, ample room for the pupils and visitors, too. The building fronts the west and has four large windows on the east and two on the south, which lend a bright and sunny glow to the room. It is heated by a furnace or stove, encased with brick, ^\here the student can always feel the warmth from the hot- air registers, although winter's blasts may blow without. Sketches and pictures adorn the bright walls, flowers and potted plants, mostly the gifts of pupils, give color to the interior. This is, perhaps, one of the most com- plete country school buildings in the county. "Prairie Gem" or district No. 34, is also among the best, as the illustration shows. No. yj is entitled to the h.onor of turning out the greatest number of teachers. Another leader .in this direction is district No. 7. There are many exceptional records made throughout the county and mention is made of some of them in the history of the various graded schools. District No. 31 did not have a tardy mark the entire year — 1902. The "'Eureka school," also mentioned above, got through two months and three A\eeks with neither absence nor tardy. CLOUD COUNTY GRADUATES IN THE 7th AND 8th GRADE WORK. These graduates are from the district schools and some of the towns. The list of questions submitted to these pupils was prepared by the State Board, and manuscripts graded by the County Board appointed by the County Superintendent, who acted as chairman. Subjects: Orthography, Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, Grammar, History, Physiology and Geography. Minimum grade in any study 60 per cent. Average .required 70 per cent. The earliest recorded names is the class of 1889, but the grades were not given. Class of 1889. No. 1, Lillie Lay ton, 95th dist. , Concordia. 2, Chet L. Burton, 32d dist., Jamestown. 3, F. E. Gray, 32d dist., Jamestown. 4, Delia Fulmer, 32d dist., Jamestown. 5, Aggie Fitzgerald, 32d dist., Jamestown, (i, AUie Fitzgerald, 32d dist., Jamestown. 7, J. H. Garlow, .51st dist., Macyville. 8, John Phelps, 97th dist., Miltonvale. " 9, A. E. Ott. .5th dist., Glasco. " 10, John D. Palmer, 5th dist., Glasco. " 11, Lizzie Rozzell, 80th dist., HoUis. " 12, Pearl Decker, 80th dist., Hollis. " 13, Guy Lewis, 96th dist., Clyde. " 14, Mary Moode, 96th dist., Clyde. 15, Wm. Johnston, 17th dist., Concordia. " 16, Stella Bristle, 17th dist., Concordia. " 17, Flora Wilcox, 17th dist., Concordia. " 18, Imogene -Decker, 8th dist., Conordia. " 19, Walter Davis, 8th dist., Concordia. " 20, S. T. Townsdin, 8th dist., Concordia. " 21, Eva Moore, 8th dist., Concordia. " 22, John H. Davis, 8th dist., Concordia. 23, Jessie Honey, 21st dist., Ames. " 24, Mary Barlow, 21st dist., Ames. ■ ' 25, Etta Roadruck, 21st dist. Ames. 26, Charles Coleman, 8th dist. Concordia. 27, Samuel Beaton, 45th dist., Delphos. No. 28, Lizzie Groff, 2d dist., Clyde. " 29, Lizzie Freelove, 2d dist., Clyde. " 30, Ellen Streator, 2d dist., Clyde. " 31, Leonie Boudro, 2d dist., Clyde. " 32, Lillian Smith, 2d dist., Clyde. Class of 1890. No. 1, Ada Biggs, 5th dist., Glasco. 2, Sada Burnett, 5th dist., Glasco. " 3, Maud Spaulding, 5th dist., Glasco. 4, Myrtle Beach, 5th dist., Glasco. " 5, Jessie Pratt, 5th dist., Glasco. " 6, OUie Neal, 5th dist., Glasco. " 7, Luella Snyder, 5th dist., Glasco. 8, Jennie Hannan, 5th dist., Glasco. " 9, Mattie Haynes, 5th dist, Glasco. " 10, Lizzie Murray, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 11, Delia Fulmer, 83d dist., Jamestown. " 12, Jno. R. Eastland, 33d dist., James- town. " 13, Ida Iverson, Joint 1 C. & R. dist., Concordia. " 14, Mary Iverson, Joint 1 C. & R. dist., Concordia. " 15, Orlin S. Kenyon, Joint 1 C. & R. dist., Concordia. " 16, George C. Flitch, 99th dist., Con- cordia. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 135 No. 17, " 18, " 19, " 20, " 21, ■■ 22, " 23, " 24, ■' 2.5, " 2(5, ." 27, " 28, " 29, " 30, " .31, " ,32 ■' 33, " 34, " 35, '■ .36, " 37, " 38, " 39, " 40, " -11, Ida E. Flitch, 99th dist., Concordia. Florene Pearce, 75 th dist., Concordia. Willis A. Cain, 48th dist., Sulphur Springs. Edwin A. Cain, 48th dist., Sulphur Springs. Lou Davis, 2d dist., Clyde. Gertie Brown, 2d dist., Clyde. Alma Lamb, 2d dist., Clyde. W. S. Pence, 2d dist., Clyde. Blanche Randolph, 2 dist., Clyde. Lulu Barlow, 21st dist. , Ames. Cora Brown, 21st dist., Ames. Clara Tufts, 64th dist., Jamestown. Libbie Croi^ant, 52ddist., Scottsville. Amanda Clark, 52d dist., Scottsville. Carrie Fitzgerald, 52ddist., Scottsville Emma Angelo, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Vernie Cronkite, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Belle Spooner, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Cora Squires, 97th dist., Miltonvale. H. M. Elliott, 7th dist., Miltonvale. Clara Eye, 7th dist., Miltonvale. C. E. Emick, 7th dist., Miltonvale. Alva Wilkins, 7th dist., Miltonvale. Emmet Rose, 9th dist., Meredith. F. O. Bourke, 35th, dist., St, Joseph. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Cora Squires, 95 per cent. Clara Tufts, 94 per cent. Willis A. Cain, 94 per cent. Florence Pearce, 91 per cent. Ida Iverson, 91 per cent. Class of 1891. No. 1, Belle Warburtou, 2d dist., Clyde. 2, Gertrude Brown, 2d dist., Clyde. " 3, Sylvia Yoder, 2d dist., Clyde. 4, Seymour Haynes, 5th dist., Glasco. 5, Hazen G. Ward, 5th dist., Glasco. " 6, Luella EUiott, 7th dist., Miltonvale. " 7, J. W. Elliott, 7th dist., Miltonvale. 8, Chris Eye, 7th dist.,' Miltonvale. 9, Alvina Townsdin, 8th dist., Concordia. 10, John H. Davies, 8th dist., Concordia. 11, Hope Anderson, 16th dist., Concordia. 12, Arthur Avery, 16th dist., Concordia. 18, Fred Sanders, IGth dist., Concordia. " 14, Carrie Ward, 22d dist., Glasco. " 15, Mary E. Henry, 22d dist., Glasco. 16, Edward Leonard, 30th dist.. Rice. 17, Cora Haines, 31st dist., Glasco. 18, Agnes Rickey, 33d dist. , Jamestown. " 19, B. L. Bean, 40th dist., Ames. 20, Grant Brassfield, 42d dist. , Glasco. 21, Evelyn Gregg, 48th dist., Glasco. " 22, Maggie Butler, 47th dist., Glasco. '_' 23, Timothy Butler 47ch dist., Glasco. 24, Phenie Bergeson, 51st dist. , Macyville. 25, Harry Huscher, 57th dist., Huscher. 26, James Williamson, 58th dist., Glasco. 27, Markle A. French, 65th dist., James- town. 28, Julia Pearce, 75th dist., Concordia. 29, R. D. Cooper, 75th dist., Concordia " .30, Melvin Bushong, 77th dist., Meredith. No. 31, Carrie Hoefer, 78th dist., Miltonvale 32, Myrtle Tiff, 92d dist., Miltonvale. 33, Hattie Middlestate, 93d dist., Milton- vale. 34, Nora Lepley, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 35, Alva Wilkins, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 36, John Shoemaker, 97th dist., Miltonvale 37, Albert Shoemaker,97th dist., Miltonvale 38, Phil Goodreau, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 39, Arthur Jennings, 97 th dist., Miltonvale. 40, Wilbur Jennings, 97th dist., Miltonvale Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Arthur Jennings, 89 per cent. Cora Haines, 87 per cent. Melvin Bushong, 85 per cent. Arthur Avery, 85 per cent. Class of 1892. No. 1, Ellen Dillon, 47th dist., Glasco. 2, Wm. B. Newton, 46th dist., Glasco. 3, John Casselman, 46th dist., Delphos. 4, Allen Everly, 46th dist., Delphos. 5, Allen Abbott, 5th dist., Glasco. 6, Clara Randle, 31st dist., Glasco. 7, Walter Butler, 42d dist., Glasco. 8, Albert McConnell, 77th dist., Heber. 9, Vina Jennings, 97th dist. , Miltonvale. 10, W. A. Hibbs, 77th dist., Heber. 11, Mabel House, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. 12, Cassa Smith, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. 13, Don J. Burton, 32d dist., Jamest9wn. 14, Grace Cutshaw, 25th dist., Jamestown. 15, Elmer Nutting, 29th dist., Ames. 16, Wm. McHenry, 40th dist., Rice. 17, W. E. Bean, 40th dist., Ames. 18, Emma Lachenmaiser, 53d di.st. , Ames. 19, Jessie Truesdell, 2d dist., Clyde. 20, Byron Hyatt, 2d dist., Clyde. 21, Lizzie Broadfoot, 2d dist., Clyde. Those making the • three highest averages were as follows: Grace Cutshaw, 85 per cent. Albert McConnell, 84 per cent. Clara Randle, 82 per cent. Class of 1893. The average required this year was changed from 70 per cent, to 75 per cent. No. 1, Geo. Bardrick, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 2, LoUie Flynn, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 3, Fannie Barber, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 4, C. R. Bardrick, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 5, S. G. Lacy, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 6, Edith Scott, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 7, Cornelia Eye, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 8, Robert F. Wilson, 89th dist., Aurora. 9, Jennie Payeur, 2d dist., Clyde. 10, Ola Hedges, 34th dist., Jamestown. 11, Nellie Woodward, 5th dist., Glasco. 12, Mary Stackhouse, 5th dist., Glasco. 13, Kate Carroll, 5th dist., Glasco. 136 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. No. 14, L. C. Bishop, 68th dist., Glasco. " 15, Walter Butler, 42a dist., Glasco. " 16, Blanche Ware, 22d dist., Glascs. " 17, Allie Woodward, 5th dist., Glasco. " 18, Antoinette Gobiet, 30th dist.. Rice. " 19, Chas. Evans, 17th dist., Concordia. " 20, Dora Stilson, J. 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. " 21, Melinda Bedor, 10th dist., Hollis. " 22, Nellie Kenyon, J. 1. C. & R. dist., Concordia. " 2.3, Aletha Smith, J.-l C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. ■■ 24, Effie Pierce, 76th dist., Rice. Those making the three highest averages ■were as follows: Jennie Payeur, 90 per cent. Fannie Barber, 88 per cent. Nellie Kenyon, 83 per cent. LoUie Flynn, 83 per cent. Class of 1894. No. 1, Lawrence Marlatt, oth dist., Glasco. 2, Ed Pratt, 5th dist., Glasco. ' 3, Walter Butler, 5th dist, Glasco. 4, Oliver Pratt, 5th dist., Glasco. 5, Fred Horn, 5th dist., Glasco. " 0, Kate Carroll, 5th dist., Glasco. 7, Lucile Small, 5th dist., Glasco. ■' 8, Myrtle Pershall, 5th dist., Glasco. 9, Mary Stackhouse, 5th dist., Glasco. " 10, Birdie Hillhouse, 5th dist., Glasco. " 11, Nellie Woodward, 5th dist., Glasco. " 12, Jennie Carroll, 5th dist., Glasco. '■ 13, Allie Teasley, 5th dist., Glasco. " 14, Myrtella Woodward, 5th dist., Glasco. " 15, Mabel DeLine, 2d dist., Clyde. " 16, Fred Dutton, J. 1 C. & R., dist., Con- cordia. " 17, Jennie Kenyon, J. 1 C. & R. dist., Concordia. " 18, W. Fiske Lawry, 10th dist., Hollis. " 19, Lorean Davidson, 08th dist., Glasco. " 20, M. D, Doyle, 58th dist., Glasco. ' 21, Harry Rice, 45th dist., Delphos. " 32, A. J. Coombs, 77th dist., Heber. " 23, Belle Elhott, 77th dist., Heber. " 24, Delia Magaw, 21st dist.. Rice. " 25, Essie Tipton, 32d dist., Jamestown. Those making the three highest averages _ were as follows: Lawrence Marlatt, 90 3-8 per cent. Jennie Kenyon, 90 2-8 per cent. Kate Carroll, 89 per cent. Class of 1895. No. 1, Eugene Emerson Ball, 12th dist., Con- cordia. 2, Raymond G. Lawry, 12th dist., Con- cordia. 3, Clarencfe Edwin Boudro, 2d dist., Clyde. 4, Mary Olive Everley, 46th dist., Graves 5, Alice E. Gregg, 5th dist., Glasco. No. 6, Jesse Edgar Shay, 97th dist., Milton- yale. " 7, George Homer Bardrick, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 8, Benjamin Barber, 97th dist., Milton- vale. 9, Merton Augustus Fish, 74th dist., Concordia. " 10, William Albert Harnett, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 11, Carrie Elizabeth Hoefer 78th dist., Miltonvale. ■' 12, Lurena Belle Kocher, 38th dist.. Graves. " 13, Claude Raymond Bardrick, 97th dist., Miltonvale. " 14, Lillian Burnett, 5th dist., Glasco. " 15, Leta Catherine Day, 5th dist., Glasco. " 16, Melvin McCoy, 97th dist., Lamar, Ottawa Co. " 17, Ada Honey, 21st dist. , Ames. " 18, Silver Guy Lacy, 97th dist., Miltonvale. " 19, Frederick Martin Horn, 5th dist., Glasco. " 20, Hattie Francis Bullock, 5th dist., Glasco. " 21, Eva HoUan, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 22, Charles Hibbs, 77th dist., Heber. " 23, Matilda Rosalie Walton, 84th .dist., Aurora. " 24, Joseph Harnett, 32d dist., JamestowD. " 25, Richard Lyle Brock, 5th dist., Glasco. " 26, Gilbert Frederick Nelson, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 27, Albert Victor Isbell, 5th dist., Glasco. " 28, Lewis William Elliott, 62d dist., Con- cordia. " 29, Rosa Alice Schwartz, 16th dist, Con- cordia. ' ' 30, John Oliver Pratt, 5th dist. , Glasco. " 31, Marguerite Matilda Hillhouse, 5th dist., Glasco. ' ' 32, Mabel Esther Priscilla McBride, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 33, Cynthia Huges, 16th dist., Concordia. " 34, Ora Righter, 9th dist, Meredith. " 35, Mary Artemisia Olmstead, 5th dist., Glasco. " 36, Minnie Cooper, 75th dist., Concordia. " 37, Olive Edna Gardner, 19th dist, Jamestown. "' 38, Walter Parcell, 5th dist., Glasco. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Eugene Emerson Ball, 88 5-8 per cent. Raymond G. Lawry, 88 1-2 per cent. Clarence Edwin Boudro, 87 3-8 per cent. Class of 1896. No. 1 , Daisy Edna Park, 77th dist. , Meredith. " 2, Frances Helena Butler, 47th dist., Glasco. " 3, Cara Elizabeth Wells, 97th dist, Miltonvale. " 4, Orpha Yolandez Woodward, 5th dist., Glasco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 137: No. 5, Elizabeth Bessie Pitner, 47th dist., Glasco. " 6, John Benjamin Shay, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 7, Edward Spalding, 4th dist, , Concordia. " 8, Edith Dutton, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- ' cordia. " 9, Stena Jensen, 93d dist., Jamestown. " 10, Bertha Blen Hitchcox, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 11, Fannie Carohne Neill, 97th diSt., Mil- tonvale. " 12, Charles Ely Kline, 77th dist., Mer- edith. " 13, May Prince, .5th dist., Glasco. " 14, Mildred Pearl Emick, 7th dist., Mil- tonvale. " 1.5, HiramArthurCoate,77thdist., Heber. " 16, John Arthur Miller, 80th dist.. Long Island. " 17, Mary Dutton, 1 C. cS: R. dist., Con- cordia. " 18, Alma Bertha Course,, 97th dist., Mil- tonvale. " 19, Dora Elnora Bumgardner,- 77th dist., Meredith. " 20, William Wilkinson Buckley, 71st dist., Miltonvale. " 21, Minnie Morford, 80th dist., Hollis. " 22, Alfred Coleman Neel, 1 C. & R. dist., Concordia. ■' 23, Mary Miller, 16th dist., Concordia. ■' 24, Eliza Flynn, 90th dist., Meredith. 25, Cora Aletha Anderson, 47th dist., Glasco. " 26, Olive McCall, 19th dist., Concordia. " 27, Benjamin Peter Smith, 97th dist., Miltonvale. " 28, Alice Ward, 87th dist., Concordia. " 29, Birde Miller, 80th dist., Hollis. " 30, Violet Mabel Ward, 5th dist., Glasco. 31, Frieda Clara Dorothea Kmmmel, 30th dist., Rice. 32, Nora Parker, 5th dist., Glasco. 33, Mary Lucinda Williamson, 58th dist., Glasco. 34, Loyal Ario Davison, 73d dist., Scotts- ville. 35, William Oliver Henderson, 77th dist., Heber. 36, Cordelia May Rogers, 5th dist. , Glasco. " 37, Martin Cary Burton, 32d dist., James- town. 38, Carrie Eleanor Plumlee, 95th dist., Concordia. " 39, Walter Frank Pilcher, 5th dist., Glasco. " 40, Carrie Nelson, 93d dist., Concordia. 41, Burr Newbury, 55th dist., Miltonvale. '' 42, Ira Bushong, 77th dist., Heber. 43, Josie McMillan, 93d dist., Jamestown. " 44, Maude Pearl Phillips, 80th dist. , Hollis. " 45, Maude Stewart, 80th dist., Hollis. 46, William Earl Emick, 7th dist., Milton- vale. ''^ 47, Lum Cleveland, 58th dist., Glasco. 48, Andrew Horn, 36th dist., Miltonvale. " 49, John Coulter Fowler, 24th dist., Mil- tonvale. No. 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, .58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, Etta Brajnwell, 4th dist.. Rice. Carrie Baldwin, 4th dist., Jamestown. Richard Bourne, 63d dist. , Delphos. Olive Demaris Gould, 32ddist. , James- town. Myrtle Bedor, 10th dist., Hollis. Hester Gladys Williams, 5th dist., Glasco. Isaac Dalrymple, 6th dist. , Simpson. Lulu Avery, 16th dist., Concordia. Mark Wesley Hare, 47th dist., Glasco. Jessie Blanche Martin,5th dist., Glasco. Leonora Ann Bogue, 32d dist. , James- town. Guilford Wall, 65th dist., Jamestown. James Quinton Lou than, 31st dist., Glasco. Augustus Fenton Potts, 5th dist., Glasco. Joseph Davidson. 58th dist. , Glasco. Minnie Estella Smith, 103d dist., Heber. Louise Poole, 32d dist., Jamestown. ViolaCaptola, Carroll, 5th dist., Glasco. Claude Yount, 77th dist. , Meredith. Minnie Viola Plumlee, 95th dist., Con- cordia. Emma McKinster, 5th dist., Glasco. Zella Jane Swift, 91st dist., Milton- vale. Pearl Garrison, 80th dist., Hollis. Truman Bates, 46th dist., Glasco. Helen Nutting, 13th dist., Ames. Lena Layton", 25th dist. Jamestown. Ira Claude Ellison, 5th dist., Glasco. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Daisy Edna Park, 92 1-2 per cent. Frances Helena Butler, 91 1-2 per cent. Cara Elizabeth Wells, 90 1-2 per cent. Class of 1897. Constitution was added to the list of studies this year and the average raised to 80 per cent, with the provision that candidates should be credited in future examinations for all grades of 80 per cent or over. No. 1, Lulu Jordan, 47th dist., Glasco. 2, Roy Hauck, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 3, Jacob Hyson Moore, 97th dist., Mil- tonvale. 4, Isabella Butler, 47th dist., Glasco. 5, William Richard Bevan, 87th dist., Concordia. 6, Cornelia Campbell, 40th dist., Ames. 7, Floyd Eugene Woodworth, 77th dist., Miltonvale. 8, Annie Senett Carr, 19th dist., Con- cordia. 9, Harry Christ Hanson, 19th dist., Con- cordia. 10, Grace Hauck, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 11, Koscie Perry, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 12, Jane Louise Bevan, 87th dist., Con- cordia. 138 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. No. 13, William Benson Morgan, 40th dist., Ames. " 14, Gertrude Wall, 65th dist., Jamestown. " 1.5, Loretto Murray, 32ddist., Jamestown. " 16. Lenna Perry, 97th dist.,' Miltonvale. " 17, Lulu Price, 80th dist., Hollis. , Nora Bennett, 66th dist., Macyville. Rachael Ellen Rogers, 4th dist., Con- cordia. 20, Florence Covey, 24th dist., Miltonvale. 21, Etta Mann, 32d dist., Jamestown. 22, Estella Fry, 26th dist. , Miltonvale. Vera Spahr, 32d dist., Jamestown. Mary Myrtle Montgomery, 32d dist., Jamestown. Anna Robinson, 33d dist., Jamestown. Carl Francis Cutshaw, 2oth dist., Jamestown. IS 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Lulu Jordan, 87 8-9 per cent. Roy Hauck, 87 5-9 per cent. Jacob Hyson Moore, 87 per cent. Class of 1898. No. 1, Ludwig Erwin Katterfeld, 45th dist., Delphos. 2, Winfred Henry Ansdell, 32d dist., Jamestown. 3, Dillie Gertrude Park, 77th dist., Mer- edith. 4, Flora Bray, 32d dist., Jamestown. 5, Mary Etta McClellan, 68th dist., Glasco. 6, Lizzie Ferguson, 48th dist., Milton- vale. 7, Enima McCall, 32d dist., Jamestown. 8, Pella Brooks, 32d dist., Jamestown. 9, Mary Josephine Mahon, 27th dist., Hollis. 10, Eva Eliza Fletcher, 43d dist., Glasco. 11, Arthur Lewis Gates, 73d dist., Scotts- ville. 12, Wiliam Arthur Ion, 32d dist., James- town. 13, Alice Ainsworth, 5th dist., Glasco. 14, Lillie Coombs, 23d dist., Heber. 15, James Mahon, 27th dist., Hollis. 16, Alice Coombs, 23d dist., Heber. 17, Florence Fulmer, 33d dist., James- town. 18, Guy Thaddeus Morris, 45th dist., Glasco. 19, Frederick Augustus Thompson, 56th dist., Aurora. 20, Lela Mose Austin, 24th dist., Milton- vale. 21, Ina Ellen Fry, 26th dist., Miltonvale. 22, Charles Jenson, 93d dist., Concordia. 23, Ellen Virginia Hare, 45th dist., Del- phos. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Ludwig Erwin Katterfield, 89 8-9 per cent. Winfred Henry Ansdell, 89 4-9 per cent. Delia Gertrude Park, 85 6-9 percent. Class of 1899. Two days' time are now given to the ex- amination in place of one. First day's work includes orthography, reading, writing, geog- raphy and physiology; second day's work, arithmetic, grammar, government and history. No. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 31, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27. 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, Delbert Rasmussen, 29th dist., Ames. John Doyen, 8th dist., Rice. Dencie French, 65th dist., Jamestown. James Garlow, 21st dist.. Rice. Floyd John, 46th dist., Glasco. Agnes Burbank, 92d dist., Miltonvale. Alice Christenson, 65th dist., James- town. Grace Lepley, 23d dist., Heber. Mamie Brown, 24th dist., Miltonvale. Mabel Swift, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Clara Newland, 91st dist., Miltonvale. Clara Campbell, 87th dist., Concordia. Lizzie Fry, 26th dist., Miltonvale. Arden Halderson, 5th dist., Glasco. Kate Bevan, 87th dist., Concordia. Mary Anderson, 93d dist., Jamestown. Ella Koster. 97th dist.. Miltonvale. George Stoner, 76th dist., Rice. Margaret Bevan, 87th dist. , Concordia. Carrie Smith, 97th dist,, Miltonvale. Ethel Holton, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Hugh Jordan, 9th dist., Meredith. Stella Jordan, 9th dist., Meredith. Benjamin Halderman, 63d dist.. Mer- edith. Oscar Pfeiff er, 29th dist. , Ames. Fred Bumgardner, 77th dist., Mer- edith. Myrtle Axley, 5th dist., Glasco. Fay French, 65th dist., Jamestown. Belva Jordan, 9th dist., Meredith. Lottie Bramwell, 21st dist., Rice. Golden Everley, iSth dist. , Glasco. Archie Rice, 45th dist., Delphos. Frank Pilcher, 45th dist., Delphos. George Minard, 64th dist.. Halfway. Josie Austin, 24ih dist., Miltonvale. Mary Robinson, 33d dist., Jamestown. Ralph Avery, 16th dist., Concordia. Letitia Marshall, 1st dist., Ames. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Delbert Rasmussen, 92 2-9 per cent. John Doyen, 92 per oent. Dencie French, 907-9 per cent. Class of 1900. No. Electa Rasmussen, 29th dist. , Ames. Margaret Shrader, 87th dist., Con- cordia. John Lewis, 9th dist., Meredith. Mabel Jones, 9th dist., Meredith. Emery Thomas, 56th dist., Aurora. Gertrude Jones, 99th dist., Concordia. 7, Bert Barber, 97th dist. , Miltonvale. 8, Ad Rogers, 68th dist. , Glasco. 9, Florence MeCall, 19th dist. , Concordia. 10, Howard Everley, 46th dist., Glasco. 3, 4, 5, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 139 No. 11, " 12, " 13, " 14, " 15, " 16, ■' 17, " 18, " 19, " 20, " 21, " 33, " 23, " 24, " 25. " 26, " 27, " 28, " 29, " 30, " 31, " 32, " 33, " 34, " 35, " 36, " 87, " 38, " 39, " 40, " 41, " 42, " 43, " 44, " 45, ■■ 46, " 47, " 48, " 49, " 50, " 51, ■' 52, " 53, Fay Day, 95th dist., Concordia. Bessie Peet, 63d dist. , Delphos. MenaBenoit, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Ida Rasmussen, 29th dist., Ames. RoUo Rogers, 68th dist., Glasco. Roy Barnum, 63d dist., Delphos. James Freeborn, 40th dist., Ames. Emma Hanson, 19th dist., Concordia. Anna Buckley, 97th dist. , Miltonvale. RoUand Jones, 9th dist., Meredith. Pansy Gray, 42d dist. , Glasco. Cora Cummings, 29th dist. , Ames. Grace Wade, 97th dist. , Miltonvale. James Forshee, 75th dist., Concordia. Lessie Dutton, 7th dist., Miltonvale. Clara Bogue, 33d dist. , Jamestown. Louie Buckland, 63d dist., Meredith. Edgar Rice, 45th dist. , Delphos. George Hussey, 5th dist, , Glasco. Frank Hanson, 19th dist., Concordia. Guy Harrington, 79th dist. , Concordia. John Brooks, 83d dist.. Graves. Homer McCowen, 99th dist., Con- cordia. Gordon Bourne, 63d dist., Delphos. Charles Winters, 83d dist.. Graves. RoyTownsdin, 8th dist., Concordia. Blanche Christenson, 65th dist., James- town. George Czapanskiy, 1st dist., Ames. Clarence Chritton, 38th dist. , Graves. Francis Anderson, 4th dist., Concordia. Maude Hussey, 5th dist., Glasco. Lewis Munger, 10th dist., HoUis. Maude Cunningham, 43d dist., Glasco. Nellie Cooper, 75th dist., Concordia. Frank Sorgatz, 75th dist., Concordia. Robert Jones, 99th dist., Concordia. Fred Dutton, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. Arthur Gould, 32d dist., Concordia. Genevieve Murray, 32d dist., James- town. OUie McKellar, 33d dist., Jamestown. Ada Dwyer, 32d dist., Jamestown. Florence Nelson, 32d dist. , Jamestown. Clarence Hartwell, 32d dist., James- town. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Electa Rasmussen, 92 1-9 per cent. Margaret Shrader, 91 7-9 per cent. John Lewis, 90 4-9 per cent. Class of 1901. By reason of some schools closing earlier than others, two dates were given this year. No. 1, Clara Butler, 47th dist., Glasco. 2, Daisy Duff, 75th dist., Concordia. 3, Eva Jordan, 22d dist., Glasco. 4, Charles Park, 77th dist. , Heber. 5, Lena Ledig, 56th dist., Aurora. 6, Edward Finley, 10th dist., Hollis. 7, Raymond Yount, 77th dist., Meredith. 8, Frank Ijames, 37th dist., Aurora. 9, Ona Stone, 5tlj dist. , Glasco. No. 10, Olive P. Sims, 16th dist., Concordia. 11, Sarah Boyer, 50th dist., Concordia. 12, Welborn Pitner, 47th dist., Glasco. 13, Vernon Thurston, 63d dist., Delphos. 14, Ella Everley, 45th dist. , Delphos. 15, Charles Shelton, 10th dist. , Aurora. 16, Helen Wade, 59th dist., Ames. 17, Dora Shell, 100th dist., Glasco. 18, Neal Sage, 47th dist. , Delphos. 19, Clara King, 46th dist., Glasco. 20, Roy Phelps, 62d dist. , Miltonvale. 21, James A. Latham, 63d dist., Delphos. 22, Harry Ijames, 37th disl. , Aurora. 23, Charles Funk, 32d dist. , Jamestown. 24, Julia Dutton, J. 1 C. cS: R. dist., Con- cordia. 25, Cecil Barnum, 63d dist., Delphds. '26, Raymond Acton, 79th dist., Concordia. 27, Willie Pilcher, 46th dist., Glasco. 28, Claude Moore, 45th dist., Delphos. 29, Mabel Hedges, 32d dist., Jamestown. 30, Maud Bell, 46th dist., Glasco. 31, Ida Smith, 40th dist., Ames. 32, Anna Amspacker, 81st dist., James- town. 33, Florence Smith, 7th dist., Miltonvale. 34, Lizzie Swartz, 16th dist. , Concordia. 35, Grace Saline, 94th dfst., Concordia. 36, Fred Kasl, J. 1 dist., Concordia. 37, Donald Wade, 59th dist., Ames. Those making the three highest averages were as follows; Clara Butler, 92 3-9 per cent. Daisy Duff, 93 3-9 per cent. Eva Jordan, 89 1-3 per cent. Charles Park, 88 1-3 per cent. No. 1, " 3, 9, 10, 11, 13, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 30, 31, 33, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, Amelia Folkers, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Minnie Baldwain, 34th dist., James- town. Eva Gould, 34th dist., Jamestown. Mary Lyne, 97th dist. , Miltonvale. Ethel McKee, 32ddist., Jamestown. Winnie Carpenter, 32d dist., James- town. Mabel Clemons, 32d dist. , Jamestown. May McBride, 33d dist., Jamestown. Louella Peaney , 97th dist. , Miltonvale. Ivor Ion, 32d dist.. Jamestown. Addie Ramsey, 32d dist., Jamestown. Mamie Linton, 32d dist., Jamestown. Dello Minor, 32d dist. , Jamestown. Joseph Anderson, 97th dist., Milton- vale. Elmer Myers, 80th dist., Hollis. Lizzie Bogue, 32d dist., Jamestown. Carrie Strain, 32d dist., Jamestown. Mabel Garlow, 21st dist.. Rice. Richard Ansdell, 32d dist. , Jamestown. Olive Nixon, 33d dist., Jamestown. Charles Adams, 97th dist., Miltonvale. M. Elsie Hall, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Ivy Chartier, 29th dist., Ames, Lillie Eye, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Grace Hedges, 32d dist., Jamestown, Homer Robinson, 33d dist., James- town. Harry Neill, 97th dist., Miltonvale. 140 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. No. 28, John McKelvey, 38th dist., Miltonvale. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Amelia Folkers, 91 6-8 per cent. Minnie Baldwin, 92 2-9 per cent. Eva Gould, 90 4-8 per cent. Class of 1902. No. 1, Lucy Dutton, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. " 2, Frank Neel, 1 C. & R. dist., Con- cordia. 3, Morris Rogers, 3d dist., Clyde. 4, Ferd Prince, 5th dist,. Glasco. 5, Anna Henning, 5th dist., Glasco. 6, Frank Olson, 5th dist., Glasco. 7, Lois Baker, 5th dist., Glasco. " 8, Cedric Converse, 5th dist., Glasco. 9, John Emick, 7th dist., Miltonvale. " 10, Marion Dutton, 7th dist., Miltonvale. " 11, John Hayden, 8th dist., Concordia. " 12, George Savage, 9th dist., Meredith. "■ 13, Willie Goernandt, 13th dist., Ames. " 14, Frank Shaffer, 16th dist., Concordia. 15, Anne McLean, 16th dist., Concordia. 16, Joseph Cool, 16th dist., Concordia. 17, Ruby Clark, 16th dist., Concordia, " 18, Hattie Hughes, 16th dist., Concordia. " 19, Delia Brownell, 19th dist., Concordia. " 20, Grace Fry, 29th dist., Miltonvale, " 21, Daniel Mahon, 27th dist., Clyde. 22, Irene Brennan, 27th dist., Jamestown. " 23, MaggieMcBride,32d dist., Jamestown. " 24, Elsie Mann, 32d dist., Jamestown. 25, Carrie Montgomery, 32d dist., James- town. 26, Frances Owen, 32d dist., Jamestown. 27, Florence Gould, 32d dist., Jamestown. 28, Leota Williams, 32d dist. , Jamestown. " 29, Blanche Cutshaw, 32d dist., James- town. 30, Captolia Fell, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 31, Gloria McBrlde, 32d dist., Jamestown. " 32, Frances Williams, 32d dist., James- town. No. 33, " 34, " 35, " 36, ■' 37, " 38, ■' 39, " 40, " 41, " 42, ■■ 43, " 44, " 45, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62 63 64 65 66 Seamon Skoglund, 33d dist., James- town. Harriet Kocher, 38th dist.. Graves. Viola Ward, 40th dist., Ames. Annie Olson. 42d dist., Glasco. Anton Sparwasser, 42d dist. , Glasco. Frank Harper, 43d dist., Glasco. Francis Hurley, 47th dist., Glasco. Rose Butler, 47th dist., Glasco. Agnes Dillon, 47th dist. , Glasco. Madge Boyer, 50th dist., Concordia. Clarence Watson, 55th dist., Milton- vale. Bessie Franks, 58th dist., Glasco. Nellie Goff. 58th dist., Glasco. Margaret Cunningham, 68th dist., Glasco. Bessie Bishop, 68th dist., Glasco. Marie Stein, 77th dist., Meredith. Laura Jones, 80th dist. HoUis. Percy Petitt, 80th dist., HoUis. Ruth Petitt, 80th dist., HoUis. Cyrus Anderson, 80th dist., Hollis. Rosa Speer, 80th dist., Hollis. Frances Dewell, 81st dist., Concordia. Lulu Campbell, 87th dist., Concordia. Verna Brooks, 91st dist., Miltonvale. Birdie Smith, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Genevieve Moses, 97th dist., Milton- vale. Katie Barber, 97th dist., Miltonvale, Winnie Young, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Mabel Evans, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Lloyd Hunt, 97th dist., Miltonvale. George Shay, 97th dist., Miltonvale. Maude Gilchrist, 97th dist., Milton- vale. Abbie Merrill, 103d dist., Meredith. John Springsted, 104th dist., Aurora. Those making the three highest averages were as follows: Frank Neel, 92 2-9 per cent. Anne McLean, 90 2-9 per cent. John Hayden, 89 2-3 per cenl. Willie Goernandt, 89 2-3 per cen». PHENOMENA --VNO IDIOSYNCRACIES. Phenomena and idiosyncracies of Kansas, as furnished by the various old settlers, is of more than passing interest. In 1869, the eastern part of Cloud county changed from buffalo grass to blue joint and sage grass. These new grasses marched forward each sticceeding year, the buffalo grass disappearing as they advanced, but it was observed if the blue joint pastures were over-stocked the land would go back to buffalo grass again and presumably would stay there for all time if sufficiently pastured and tramped. In 1870 Doctor Laughlin's (Clyde) farm was covered with buffalo grass, with no other kind of vegetation to be found. A black-glove could have been seen from the western line on any part of his land. The follow- ing year. 1871, a thousand sheep could have been hidden from view on the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 141 same ground by the heavy growth of blue joint. Buffalo grass will stand more drouth than any of the grasses and its very existence seems to depend upon abuse, over-taxation ^nd tramping. When the millions of buffalo were driven back it sickened and died, other grasses taking its place. It seems to flourish under oppression, to wither and perish under civilization. Most of the old settlers of Cloud county have observed another strange freak in the pastures which succeeded^ the buffalo grass. If the prairie were burned over in February or March, it would be covered with sage grass, if burned in May it would be covered with blue joint, no difference which grass covered the prairie the previous year. If ground covered with sage grass were burned over in May it would be covered with blue joint, but if burned m March it would be covered with the same kind of grass burned — sage grass. This phenomena is most remarkable when we consider that the two grasses are entirely different species. In 1870, there was a well dug on Doctor Laughlin's farm fifty-four feet deep. This year his land was covered with buffalo grass and scarcely any other kind of plant growth could be found. The following year thirty four distinct varieties were found upon the excavated dirt from the well. This vegetation was minature, four to six inches in length, mostly vines covered with small blossoms from one-sixteenth to one-fourth of an inch in diameter, white and blue being the only colors represented. Earth exhumed from a great depth will grow the same differentiated varieties now as then. It was also observed in the early settlement of the country that lands of the same fertility and inspiring Avould vary in production from six to twelve bushels per acre, depending upon the time and depth of breaking. Deep breaking would fall short in production from twelve to fifteen bushels, and no one seems to know why a few days difference in plowing will make quite a difference in the yield per acre. Mr. Payer states that his boy stopped plowing on account of an approaching storm and resumed plowing the next day. The difference in the yield could be seen to the very furrow where he stopped before the storm. Almost every farmer has noticed that a very few days difference in planting his crop will make a great difference in the yield. Doctor Laughlin experimented with dynamite in the interest of horti- culture in 1887. It was thought when the ground was frozen to its greatest depth would be the best time for the experiment, hence the last of Febru- ary was chosen. Holes were bored from two to eight feet deep and from two to eight ounces of dynamite was used in each, one ounce to the foot being the rule. It was discovered that a hole three feet deep (just under the frozen ground) with three ounces of dynam.ite immediately after explo- sion would take in over one hundred gallons of water, tlie ground being broken up from five to eight feet in every direction. For many miles around the farmers came to see the experiment, and from among them was chosen a committee, which reported favorably, stating in their report there was no 142 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. doubt but that dynamiting of the ground would be of immense value in tree planting, and if applied when frozen to the depth of two feet it W'Ould be of still greater value in agriculture, the cost being about fourteen dollars per acre, using one charge to a rod square. But for orchard planting the ground should be frozen to its greatest deptli and the cost per tree of dj'na- miting would be from two and one-half to four cents. PETRIFIED TURTLES. During the early settlement of the country "Greenback" Williams, of Buffalo township, operated a stone quarry in Jewell county and burned lime for the settlers. Imbedded among the stone were numerous petrified turtles of various sizes, often times aggregating a wagon load in enough material to burn a kiln of lime. They seemed to have gathered in tlrnt particular locality in schools, for there were hundreds of them. They had been deposited there in another era, for the ground is high and remote from any stream. BONES IN A STRATA OF ROCK. When digging a well on the original homestead of a niece of William H. Page, the farm now known as the Richardson place, they found at a depth of about nine feet below the surface in a strata of soft sandstone the short rib bones of what was supposed to be those of an animal imbedded in the rock. PETRIFIED FISn. In the latter part of July, 1872, W. Day, who lived ten miles north- west of Concordia, and some hired assistants were digging a cistern, when they came in contact with a large rock, which, being a hindrance to the proceeding of their work, they attempted to remove it. Failing to loosen or make any impression upon the stone they examined it more closely, when they discovered the quality of rock was of a different character from what they had previously found, and proceeded to break it in pieces in order to remove it more easily. A moment later one of the workmen gave vent to an exclamation of surprise, which brought the others to his side, whereupon was clearly outlined the petrified fins of a fish on the side of the rock. After displacing the stone they fitted the pieces together and found the matter to be a huge fish that measured eight feet in length and six feet around the body. THE SIROCCO, OR HOT M'lNDS. A remarkable phenomena is connected with the hot winds of Kansas, sometimes designated electrical storms, which no scientist has ever been able to explain. In a field of corn that is practically of the same level, and the plant uniform in growth, alternate rows of ten or fifteen will be blasted. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 143 burned beyond recovery, while the intervening tract will be unharmed. Nicholas French and his son Markel were plowing one windy day when an irregular tract was mown to the earth by one of the so-called electrical winds, while other parts of the field were not affected whatever. WALNUT LOG FOUND AT A DJ^PTH 01? TWENTY-EIGHT FEET. A company was formed in the 'seventies for the purpose of investigat- ing the salt veins in the marsh. When down at a depth of about* twenty- eight feet they struck a walnut log in a good state of preservation. The circumstance is more peculiar because of the fact there was not a walnut tree within a radius of several miles from this point. When down about sixty-seven feet they encountered a strong flowing vein which was too salty for drinking, but would not yield a large enovigh per cent for manufactur- ing purposes. The water continues to ffow. The well is on the farm of C. N. Baldwin, who dug a well about thirty rods from the one mentioned and found an excellent quality of fresh water at a depth of ten feet. In the early days of Kansas the settlers' wives cured their cucumbers for tabk use in the brine from the salt marsh. DROUTH OF 1870. During the summer of 1870, when not a ton of hay could be cut in a whole township on the uplands, although not accompanied with hot winds, the cattle, what few there were, comparatively speaking, were never fatter. The dry grass was full of nutriment and the stock preferred it to the new grasses just coming up out of the earth or that which was three to five inches high in the sloughs. RAGWEED. The perennial ragweed is a native of Kansas and grows rampantly everywhere but the annual plant was not known in this locaUty vintil about ten years ago. It was in all probability brought into the country with other seeds or cereals. The dandelion and other plants were introduced in a similar manner. CLOUD COUNTY PIONEER ASSOCIATION. This association was organized in 1895. In the beginning the intention was to include the old timers of the townships of Aurora, Colfax, Oakland and Nelson. They held several reunions, which were very enjoyable and served to keep fresh in the memory and keep alive the ties of friendship formed when the country was new and sparsely settled, and when all were neighbors within a radius of many miles. The board of ofScials were W. M. Durkee, of Aurora; W. C. Campbell. Colfax township ; H. R. Honey, Concordia, and Mrs. Evelyn Bradford. The 144 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. last meeting was held in Oakland township on Pipe creek, in 1900, at Cable's grove, one and one-half miles south of Aurora. The grove was decorated with patriotic symbols, mottoes and antique furniture. The address of wel- come was delivered by that old veteran and pioneer, J. E. Burkhart. Will- iam Durkee was elected president for the ensuing year, and J. E. Burkhart, secretary. In 1885 J. M. Hagaman took initiatory measures in moving for an old settlers' reimion and suggested they celebrate July 3rd of that year as a beginning of a permanent orgaaization. None of these organizations were of permanent duration. It was for several years a custom prevalent over the state to prepare a local history of the county to be read on July 4, and published in various newspapers, and upon an occasion of this kind, July 4, 1876, Eugene Ware (the well knowri Kansas poet) read the following poem : "He who lived in Kansas, though he roam, Can find no other spot and call it home. As Ingalls says, the Kansas man may stray. May live, perchance depart or go away. In short, may roam, but be it anywhere. He must return if he can raise the fare. On July Fourth we always float the flag. And push the old bald eagle from the crag; Fly him the length and breadth of this fair land. From the Penobscot to the Rio Grand. Then without rest we quickly start him on A trip from Florida to Oregon. Then bring him back and boost him to the sky, And let him stay there till the next July. O, grand old bird ! o'er many a weary mile They've made you sail in oratoric style. While fledgling speakers in refulgant prose Capped many a gorgeous climax as you arose. To-day our choicest colors are unfurled; Soar up, proud bird, and circle round the world. And we predict that nowhere will you find A place like Kansas, that you left behind." THE YOUNG MEN's REPUBLICAN CLUB OF CLOUD COUNTY. Cloud county has a miniature "Kansas Day Club," with headquarters in Concordia. It is along the same lines as the state organization. It is a young men's Republican club. Sidney H. Knapp has reason to be proud HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 145 of the fact that he is the instigator and organizer of this club. F. W. Sturges, son of Judge Sturges, of Concordia, is presidait, and Sidney H. Knapp, of Clyde, secretary and treasurer. They arrange that the principal speakers at their banquets shall be natives of the county. There is a similar club in Dickinson county ; this and the one in Cloud county are the only organizations of this kind at present, but it is presumed others will follow. They gave a banquet March 26, 1902, to about four hundred people, which was one of the most elaborate functions ever given in Concordia, and in fact few functions excel it in the state. Fred Sturges, Jr., was toast- master and to his untiring efforts and g"ood management credit is due for the success of the banquet. The speeches jnade were as follows : "A Few Remarks," Governor Stanley; "The Young Man in Politics," Charles A. Case; "Our Sister County," C. A. Kimball; "Concerning Cloud County," Albert T. Reid; The Concordia Male Quartet; "The Backbone of the Nation," O. E. Hardesty; "Why Should a Young Man Be in Politics," Doctor J. L. "kirby; "Political Manhood," J. B. Wood;, "Kansas," Senator Burton, the latter coming all the way from Washington, District of Columbia, to attend this occasion. One of the notable features of this ban- quet was the absence of wine. The maiu card was headed with the following quota- tion : "Some food we have and some water fresh." The object of the organization is to promote Republicanism and to call together in a social way the yoting Republicans of Cloud county. THE PIKE MONUMENT. The Pike monument commemorates the place and event where Colonel Zebulon Pike, while on his return from Mexico, raised the American flag, the first stars and stripes that ever floated over Kansas soil. The cornerstone was placed with cere- monial rites by the Grand Lodge, Free and auspices of Bellville Lodge No. 129, July the monument occurred the following 29th The Pike Monument. Accepted Masons, under the 4, 1 90 1. The unveiling of of September, just ninety-five years from the day Colonel Pike displayed the fair standard of American liberty on Pawnee rock, the site of the Pawnee Indian village in Repubhc county. 146 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION. Cloud county once had a prosperous County Fair Association. The society was organized in 1883. A considerable sum of money was expended in fitting up tlie grounds that the agricultural and meclianical products might be shown to good advantage. It was a commendable institution and flour- ished several j-ears. Competent and reliable men were in charge and the people from all over the surrounding country took an appreciable interest. The grounds, which were situated near Concordia, afforded one of the best race tracks in northwest Kansas. The advantages of the state as a produc- tive and stock raising country were sent abroad and did much to convince eastern people, who entertained grave doubts about even the civilization of the state, that Kansas had no superior in the west. Washington. Street in Concordia During the Flood. THE FLOOD OF JUNK, I9O2. During the latter part of the month of June, 1902, scores of fields adja- cent to the rivers and creeks were submerged under water caused by the heavy and continued rainfalls, seriously damaging the com and many of the wheat fields. As the injured grain ripened the fields were in such a muddy condition it was impossible in many instances to garner the grain. Both the Republican and Solomon rivers were higher than they had been known for years, as the illustrations given will testify, and in July, 1902, the Republican was reported to have been higher than ever before in the history of the coun- try, reaching a width of four miles in some localities. The tracks of the Prosser branch of the Missouri Pacific Railway, near Yuma, about four miles west of Concordia, were under water for several miles and hundreds of yards of track was washed out. View from South Sid2 of West Bridge Over the Solomon River. View from South Side of East Bridge Over the Solomon River. u Q Z z < HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 149 Many farmers li\'ing- in the lowlands were compelled to flee to the uplands for safety; many of them losing stock. Some of the harvesting had been finished; some of the grain was imripe, owing to a late season, drouth, etc., and a machine did not enter the field. I'he young and growing corn that had given such rare promise of a plentiful harvest was greatly injured, some -On the Santa Fe Railway, near Oneonta. Republican River near Clyde. places totally. The watermelon growers in the vicinity of Clyde were heavy losers of their crop of melons, which gave indications of an unprecedented yield a few weeks before. The farmer who lives on the upland in a year like this can witness his broad acres of wheat or his great fields of corn, the stocks of which are burdened with long ears of well-filled corn, and feel it is good to live on the upland prairie. The cut on page 148 is a view of the "Bridge" road (taken Julv 9), looking south from the Missouri Pacific railway crossing, between Shorer's and Fessenden's farms, during the recent high water — the highest the Repub- lican river has been during the past twenty-five years — at which time and place the river was nearly two miles wide. It also illustrates how one of Clyde's principal business men overcame tlie obstacle presented in the obstruction of communication. Mr. C. F. Armstrong makes^ the proud claim, that he has never, for any reason, closed down any of his skimming stations, and never proposes to as long as his patrons will furnish him any milk. During this time the Como (Mulberry) station was receiving from twelve thousand to fifteen thousand pounds of milk daily. The cream from this milk, together with that from Huscher and Concordia, was brought to the south side of Fessenden's farm, from whence it was successfully transported across the river in a boat, necessitating many trips and much arduous and dangerous labor. Each load had to be pulled by hand over the Missouri Pacific railway, but as the tops of the rails were only a few inches above the general surface of the river, this was not the most difficult part of the work. 10 HISTORY OF THE CITY OF CONCORDIA. The city of Concordia is situated in the immediate valley of the Repub- lican river, at the base of a range of hills to the south upon which have been •erected many handsome dwelling's, whose occupants enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramic views on the continent. On the north side is the river, which is bordered by fine cotton wood trees, and its broad valley stretches iar to the east and west of the city. Perhaps no one man is so much entitled to the credit of founding Con- cordia as J. M. Hagaman. He conceived the idea and selected the town site where he has resided and lives at tlie present time, and whose face is as famil- iar to Cloud county people as the head of the Goddess of Liberty on the Amer- ican dollar. The plan of locating the county seat on the Republican river was co-ex- istent with Mr. Hagaman's advent into the county in i860, and he never let an opportunity escape to push the project. To aid this enterprise he opened a road at his own personal expense to Junction City and secured the survey over this line in 1864 of a state road from that city. The sixty-fourth mile- post (a red sand rock) lies buried on his old homestead by the river bridge. Mr. Hagaman explains the seemingly short distance by saying: "In order to make it appear they were not so very far distant from the outside world, he had the surveyor, A. C. Pierce, of Junction City, stretch the gunter's chain," that is, threw in ten links now and again and sometimes oftener. This was done to secure a good road to Junction City and avoid the dangers and hardships in going to market. He reasoned that without the county seat and an important town, never would be heard the locomotive's shrill whistle on the south side of the Republican river. Is it any wonder that his neighbors smiled at his talk, when the buffalo bulls were making the hills, valleys and plains melodious with their bellow- ing, and the wolves making night hideous with their bloodthirsty bowlings, in the very dooryards of the settlers. Mr. Hagaman built the first house on the town site with his own hands. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 151 He built for G. W. Andrews the second, projected the court house and donated more funds toward it than all the other parties with the exception of G. W. Andrews. Mr. Hagaman located land on which a part of the town stands and induced Mr. Andrews to locate one hundred and sixty acres adjoining his on the south, the prospective town being the inducement held out to Andrews. This was in August, 1868. In 1866 he had secured the per- manent location of the county seat two miles east of the present site. THE COUNTY SEAT .SKIRMISH. In the summer of 1866, the population being sufficient, Mr. Hagaman prepared a petition to the governor, the Honorable S. J. Crawford, praying him to issue a proclamation declaring the county organized. He presented the petition personally; the prayer was granted, election of officers and the present location of the county seat ordered. He had named in the petition Clyde as the temporary county seat; his object being to mislead the people of that village, who not only desired to get the temporary seat but the permanent one as well. Naming Clyde disarmed the opposition to the organization of the county. He was somewhat per- plexed over a suitable name and after casting about for a time decided on naming it "Townsdin's Point." Mr. W. S. Townsdin had taken a claim just west of Oak Creek and not far east of the center of the county, where he intended the seat should be finally located; not caring, as Mr. Hagaman archly remarked, "if afterward the point were found to be in the moon," his sole purpose being to keep Clyde from getting the vote. Election day came, and Cowel, the Clyde merchant, went to Sibley to tell the dozen or so of voters how to cast their ballots on the county seat. Mr. Hagaman went, and some one in the crowd was heard to remark "and Satan came also." He looked over the poll-book, so-called, and found it very defec- tive, a jug of whiskey sitting on the floor near the judges' table, and the judges and clerks fully "three sheets in the wind." Mr. Hagaman went home fully satisfied that precinct would not be counted — and it was not. The commissioners appointed by the governor to complete the organiza- tion of the county were George Wilcox, Dr. Henry Lear and Moses Heller, with N. D. Hagaman for clerk and "Elk O-eek" for the county seat. It may seem strange to have a creek selected for the county seat, but there was no land deeded at that time and "Elk Creek" was then generally known to be around "Uncle Heller's" place. These commissioners were recommended in the petition and all lived on the north side of the river except the clerk. The commissioners could not be got together to canvass the vote. Finally the clerk wrote the secretary of state to know what to do about it. He replied to make and remit to him an affidavit of the facts and he would authorize N. D. Hagaman to canvass them. They were advised of this and still would not meet. The order of the secre- tary came ; the clerk set, the day to canvass, of which the opposition was noti- 152 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fied, but none appeared. The clerk found that "Townsdin's Point" has a majority of the -legal votes and he declared it the permanent county seat of "Shirley county." Had Clyde been given the. county seat, Concordia would never have existed. As a matter of course nothing was ever done at "Townsdin's Point," nor was there ever intended to be. The object was to keep the county seat from Clyde, and prevent the growth and prestige the permanent location of the county seat would give. Nothing more was done about the location of the county seat until 1869. In the summer of that year a sprightly town sprung up at Sibley and was named for the lake that bears that name. A. A. Carnahan had a quarter section upon which a portion of the town was located and of course wanted the county seat there. C. M. Albinson was the soul of this .enterprise and A. A. Camahan the brains. COUNTY SE;\T AGITATION. The subject of re-locating the county seat began to be agitated that summer. The south side voters caused to be circulated the report that they were opposed to the election which doubled the desire of the north side people for it, construing the unwillingness of the south side people to mean fear of the result. While not sanguine of success they knew it was now or- never, as the south side had a plurality of five votes with a steady gain on the north side. Albinson was planning to colonize some voters, but upon hearing that the Ixiard would throw his precinct out if it was found a single illegal vote were cast, he abandoned the scheme. No fairer or more honest elections were ever held than the two that finally settled the county seat at Concordia. On the first ballot Clyde was third in the race, which left Sibley and Con- cordia alone in the ring. The fight waged hot and fierce; report came that Sibley was distributing towTi lots among voters. Mr. Hagaman advised George Andrews to put one or two hundred lots in his pocket and go with them to Shirley and Clyde, which he did. Consequently the vote was very satisfactory in both places. Every vote south of the Republican river was for Concordia and the eighteen votes from Clyde gave her a big majority. There was sufficient reason for the Clyde property owners not voting for Sibley, Concordia would do them less harm. As Concordia grew, Sibley paled in the dim distance, her stores were deserted and her hotel, built at a cost of four thousand dollars, was aban- doned and went to ruin. The failure of Sibley brought ruin to J. T. Swen- son. of Junction City, the financial backer of the advaiture. C. M. Albin- son and several others lost many of their ducats when the Sibley bubble bursted. Mr. Carnahan erected the fourth building in' Concordia, but after- ward cast his lot with Sibley, the illusive future metropolis being partly on his land ; but prodigal like, he returned to Concordia. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 153 The election on November 6, 1866, was an important one, inasmuch as the county seat question was involved in this contest; it was the north and the south side of the river, the north side concentrating on Elk creek, the south side, a location situated on Oak creek. J. M. Hagaman, not satisfied with the action of the convention, claimed the right of applying to the people for their suffrage to the office of representative, so ran independent. The Elk precinct polled eighteen votes. Election over, the next thing was to canvass this vote by the first board of commissioners. Here hinges the most delicate part of this narrative, but to those who are inclined to censure, please bear in mind this election involved a county seat contest, which has been the cause — -whether it came up in this state or any other state — of more crookedness and official corruption tlian many other causes combined. The officers were new and inexperienced, had no precedence before them to look to, nor had they that usful appendant, county attorney, to counsel, and as for legal documents, there were perhaps none in the county, with the exception of one cojjy of the compiled laws, in pos- session of 'Squire J. M. Thorp. The following statement was made by a person wJho was present at this attempted canvass and in substance is as follows : . The board saw by the certified returns that William English was elected county commissioner and immediately had him sworn in. George Wilcox was then told liis term of office expired, and there was nothing more for him to do, so he went home, which left Heller and English on the board. Robert J. Smith, the man from the Solomon valley, never qualified. An idea prevailed among the settlers of that day that where there was a tie on the board the clerk had a right to give the casting vote. This was an advantage to the friends of Oak creek, for the clerk was an Oak creek man ; so, on inspecting the returns from Sibley, they were thrown out because they were signed by' the judge with, a pencil, instead of written with ink. By doing this the majority of the vote cast was declared in favor of Oak Creek. After doing this, it seemed they adjourned. Mr. Heller, who opposed such action, refused to meet to finish the canvass. To show that there was a serious muddle, and the manner in which it was finally settled, we will submit the following extract of a report from the secretary of state: "Soon after the election I was informed by the county clerk of Shirley that the commissioners of said county had refused to canvass the vote of said county as provided by law. I immediately wrote to. the clerk to canvass the vote and also to make an affidavit, setting forth all the facts, and forward the same to this office, which was done." To persons of to-day who are acquainted with such work it will puzzle them to know why this adjournment, when the whole could have been com- pleted almost in the next instant. Mr. Rupe says that the only w^ay he can account for it is that they must have thought they had to canvass the ballots 134 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS, as well as the certified returns, but even then it would have taken but a short time, as the vote was very light. The whole number of votes with the Sibley precinct thrown out (which is said to be ten), according to the report of the secretary of state is forty- eight. Rather a small vote for a county, but about four too many, as there were eighteen in Elk, twenty- two in Shirley, four in Buffalo and ten at Sibley; total, fifty- four. Sub- tract from this the ten Shirley votes and there are forty-four. There were no votes from the Solomon. There were a few settlers there but no votes cast. The settlement in that precinct began in 1865, and a safe estimate of the voters would be ten. Had this been polled there would have been sixty-eight. Allowing five to each voter, there would have been two hundred and forty at the time the affidavit was made, stating there were six hundred inhabitants. It may be denied that the throwing out of the Siblej' vote had the effect of throw- ing the county seat on Oak Creek, but this was too generally known to admit of much argument. Had there been a fair expression of the people in favor of that locality there can be no doubt its friends would have held it there, but the people were so indignant at the procedure the commis- sioners never met at this place to transact count)' business, but continued to meet on Elk creek or Clyde, until they removed to Concor-dia in 1870. Again had there been a fair expression there never would have been another election on this vexed question, for the county seat would have remained on Oak creek. APPROVING OF TOWN SITE AND NAMING OF THE COUNTY SEAT. Having decided where the city was to t>e, the next step was to get some public demonstration in favor of it. The cc*nvention met in August, 1869, at Captain Sanders' saw mill, standing on the left bank of the river, half a mile below the town site. The delegates from the south side being a majority, rode over the site and approved of it. To H. C. Snyder was voted the honor of naming the to-be great city, and this he did by saying, "In view of the harmony and unanimity prevailing, I name the future city 'Con- cordia,' " and the name was thereupon unaninously approved. The idea of building a city here was regarded as a huge joke by some of the' delegates, but did not in the least degree shake the faith of its founder. In 1870 E. Linn^y moved his store, which had been located near the saw mill, about half way between where the bridge now spans the river and Sixth and Washington streets. He was then appointed postmaster of Con- cordia, and afterward removed into the building erected by A. A. Camahan. The January meeting of the commissioners was held in the building erected and presented to the county, the business was transacted and when the board adjourned it looked as though the .county seat trouble was at an end, when in fact they were still in the midst of it. In placing the build- ing they had not been particular about locating it on the exact spot, speci- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS, i55 fied by the ballot, but near by on the tract plotted, named it Concordia and filed it in the register of deeds' office just before the first election in 1869. The Clyde people became aware of this and at once assumed that the county officers could not be compelled to come to the county seat, as there was no place for them to do business at Concordia. Some people believed there was something in the contention, and some who thought otherwise deemed it best to silence the objection by moving the house onto the tract s.p€cified. It was protested, but to no avail; the building was moved. The moving of the building so maddened Mr. Hagaman that he abandoned the town fo'r a time, went to Clyde and selected some lots pre- paratory to erecting a business house upon them. The town company pro- fessed to be glad he was coming, but when a few days later he went to begin work and requested them to stake out his lots, he was told there was a prior claim to the ground in question and he would have to go further out. After much travel a location was found that he could not be induced to take, and with language more "forcible than elegant," he returned to his "first love," determined to redouble his efforts to make Concordia a town. The Clyde people were superstitious of his move and thought prob- ably he boded them ill. After moving the county house the commissioners met and voted to transact the county business in Clyde, and back to that town they went. A more crestfallen lot of men than those who spent two weeks moving that building .never met. This looked like a death stroke to their little town, a death knell to their hopes of building a city, and in all probability would have been but for the timely removal of the United States land office from Junction City to Concordia. The commissioners were as follows : First district, W. H. Page, living near Clyde; second district, Chester Dutton, living in Sibley; third, John Murphy, in Meredith. Page pulled for Clyde, Dutton for Siblej' and Murphy for Concordia. It was very quiet the spring and summer of 1870, with very little to break the monotony of pioneer life. The coyote still made the air resonant with their ydpings, and the ground squirrel sported and grazed on the town site unmolested. Sibley had a chance of securing the United States land office which revived her dying hopes. G. W. Martin, registrar of the land office at Junction City, held out to the Sibley managers the hope of getting the office, but tbe United States land office and their officers were perquisites of Sen- ator Pomieroy and what he demanded was given. In June of this year Sen- ator Pomeroy, in company with the Honorable S. D. Houston, visited Cloud county, going as far west as Cawker City, or to the site, as there was less of a city there than at Conocrdia. On climbing the hill beyond Cawker City he was captivated by the magnificent panorama before him, and decided to put the other land office there. Senator Pomeroy never went back on a true friend, and never broke a promise. He gave out a newspaper interview 156 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS, descriptive of the country and it stirred 1x)th hemispheres, and was immedi- ately followed by a rush of emigration. eONCORDIA TOWN COMPANY. The incorporators of the Concordia Town Company were as follows: James M. Hagaman, G. W. Andrews, William McK. Burns, Amos Cutter and S. D. Houston. This charter was filed in the office of the secretary of state of Kansas, December 26, 1870. It was September, 1870, that word was received to the effect that the United States land office had been located at Concordia, and orders to prepare a building where the officers might hold forth. Long before the land office was opened for business long lines of homer steaders were daily formed in front of the office. The applications were made, filed and recorded when the books came in January. J. M. Hagaman drew the plans for the building of the United States land office. The pine lumber, windows and doors were hauled from Junc- tion City. The pine lumber cost one hundred dollars per one thousand feet. The Cottonwood lumber, which formed the greater part of the building, was purchased in Concordia. The building was one and one-haJf stories high, eighteen by twenty feet, and paid for by Andrews and Hagaman. This was a costly building at that time and largely because of high wages paid poor workmen. To keep the land office from being moved, the same parties built another house for the officers at a cost of two thousand dollars. All that was nec- essary in those days to make the town company "put up" was to get the word afloat that the land office was going to be moved because "the town company wouldn't do this or wouldn't do that." When the "political triumvirate" of the land office, the court house and the saloons were established in the early 'seventies, all that was neces- sary to secure the election of the combined candidates was for the managers to say "if you don't vote for our candidate we will move the land office," and every man voted loyally for them. This continued more or lessi until 1879, when the ring was smashed. DESCRIPTION OF THE STREETS IN CONCORDIA. In the first platting of the tovm the streets were made the width they are at present. Sixth, the main business street, is one hundred and ten feet wide, Fifth, one hundred and thirteen feet wide. Fourth, one hun- dred and thirty feet wide, Broadway, one hundred and twenty feet wide. Washington, ninety-nine feet wide; all the other streets are eighty feet wide. The alleys are twenty feet wide. The lots were originally forty-four by one hundred and thirty-two feet, but. at the suggestion of S. D. Houston they were divided in the middle, making them twenty-two by one hundred and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 157 thirty-two feet, where it was expected the business houses would be erected. His reason was that with a forty-four foot lot one-half of it only would be built upon and the vacant land would hurt the business and the town. This being plausible, the company's plat was made to conform with his view of the matter. Fourth street was desired for railroads and is occupied by the Central Branch Railway. It was also intended to run a railroad through Broadway street, to be known as the North and South Central Kan- sas Railroad. Houston and Hagaman each subscribed one hundred thou- sand dollars to the capital stock of tliis company and an editor of a Salina paper took another one hundred thousand dollars worth of stock. Mr. Hag- aman says "the nub of the joke lies in the fact that all three could not have raised five thousand dollars if their necks had depended upon it," but that is the way railroads were built in that day. The stock of the Central Branch was nothing but "wind" at first and made valuable by land grants and gov- ernment bonds. NAMING THE STKEETS. Mr. Hagaman named the streets of Concordia, not one having been suggested. The following is the origin of some of them : Willow, so riamed because it extended into a bunch of willows at its northern terminus; Repub- lican river, for the river that bears that name; Cedar street, the next street east, because it sounded well, and he also argued there should be a State and Kansas avenue. Washington was named in honor of the Father of Our Country; Broadway because it sounded big and metropolitan like; Lincoln was named for the martyred president; Oli-ve street was named for a sister of Mrs. Hagaman ; Spruce street was so named because that tree had been a great favorite of his boyhood days. Seized with a sentimental inspiration, Archer was suggested from Cupid with his little bow and arrow. Greeley street was named for Horace Greeley, the "patron saint" of its author. The base line for numbering the streets is the river. First street being the street next to the Republican, and thence south, the last one being Nine- teenth. DARK DAYS FOR CONCORDIA., In 1871 Sidney Clark was defeated in the renomination to congress. Friends of his in the eastern part of the state, who had arranged to erect a first-class hotel, abandoned the enterprise. The story floated "The land office would be moved and Concordia would die." It was impossible to approximate the loss to the town from that misfortune, but it is safe to say it was very great. If some of the citizens knew the office would not be moved they could not convince the people of it; the evil effect was the same. Confidence often builds bigger and better cities than natural advantages and genius, and the jealous enemies of the town made the most of these conditions; but the town lived and eventually boomed, nevertheless. 158 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Congress met in December and Amos Cutler, of Buffalo, New York, was confirmed as registrar and Honorable E. J. Jenkins as receiver of the land office, which opened for business June i6, 1871. In April, 1874, Hon- orable B. H. McEckron was appointed registrar. No more honorable men were ever in the employ of the government than these gentlemen nor more accommodating officers. SOME OF Concordia's first citizens. As before mentioned, E. Linney was the first postmaster and opened the first store. S. D. Silvers opened the second in December, erecting a building on the corner of Sixth and Broadway streets, where Sweet's hard- ware store now stands. McKinnon and Guilbert (the latter still a resident of Concordia) located in November with hardware and lumber. Early in the same month the citizens were astonished to see a house moving towards the town from the west. Mrs. Truesdell was moving her residence to town to be used as a hotel. In the Empire of December 24, 1870, apppears the following local : "Mr. Truesdell moved his house to this place, from one and a half miles west of town. Eleven yoke of oxen and four men brought the building here in about two hours. It was rolled in to the tune of 'Yan- kee Doodle' played on the melodeon by Mrs. Truesdell's little daughter ten years old. The family remained in the building while it was being moved. Not being able to get lumber as fast as needed to build up the town, people are hauling in their houses." The same winter Crill i& Zimmerman erected a hotel where the Barons House now stands. E. J. Jenkins took his claim in 1877 and begun building a residence, ^^'■illiam McK. Burns was the first to erect a building for a law office and C. W. McDonald was second. James Strain located forty acres on the north side of the town in November, having previously purchased the right of G. W. Andrews. Oli- ver Currier commenced the building of a stone dwelling house on Seventh street, where the Baptist church now stands. Henry Buckingham came over from Clyde and selected a building site on the northeast corner of Sixth and Broadway streets, erected a building, and moved his printing office from Clyde, where he edited and published the first newspaper, both in Clyde and Concordia — The Republican Valley Empire. In November, 1870, Mr. Lanoue landed in Concordia with his saw- mill, a very welcome acquisition, as the mill of Captain B. C. Sanders cotJd not supply the demand f-or lumber. Mr. Hagaman donated from his land enough for the mill site and furnished forty thousand feet of logs to saw "on the shares" and turned his ferry over to him. The town company also gave him a block of land. THE PRIMITIVE COURT HOUSE. Charles O. Huntress surveyed the land into lots, assisted by William HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 159 McK. Burns and G. W. Andrews. There were over three thousand lots. Stephen Brownell did the platting. The survey and plat of the year before was followed as far as it went, which was forty acres in what is now the heart of the city. That year the court house was erected; a temporary affair at a cost of something like two hundred and seventy-five dollars, the labor and material being donated by the citizens of Concordia and vicinity. It was hardly so imposing a structure as the one of the presrait writing, but was doubtless more of a burden for the people of the frontier to construct than the one they now justly feel so proud of was for the people of the county to build. The winter of 1 870-1 was a delightful one, and fortunate it was for the new town and the army of emigrants that rushed into the country. Very little snow fell, storms were moderate and far between. The ground bare most of the time, building went right on and when March arri\'ed there were hundreds of people where only five months before there were scarcely dozens. Nearly two scores of buildings were erected and under way where a short time before was only an unbroken prairie. The chill the town received from the political disaster that overtook one of its best friends, Sidney Clark, .severe and damaging as it was, did not "kill the town" as had been predicted and as many of its friends feared it would. Before March the town company had assurance from competent authority there would be no change in the location of the land office, and when this fact becamie known, settlement and buildiiig took on a new start. TOWN COMPANY ELECTION OF OFFICERS. December 8, 1870, the incorporators of the Concordia Town Associa- tion elected the following officers r President, J. M. Hagaman; vice-presi- dent, Amos Cutler; secretary, William McK. Burns; treasurer, G. W. Andrews; directors, J. M. Hagaman, G. W. Andrews, William McK. Burns, S. D. Houston, Sr., and Amos Cutler. The election of officers occurring eighteen days before the application of the charter was filed with the secretary of state is only one of the evi- dences of the rapid ways business was done in those times. The policy of the company was to give away alternate business lots to all who would build on them, and also the lots designed for residences, in order to help the town. Hundreds of lots under this system were given away. OTHER E^RLY SETTLERS. Among other early settlers following were: William Conner, employed as clerk by Mr. Silver; J. S. Hoy, Monroe Wagoner, John Kisler, C. B. Clark, S. G. Jenkins, Thomas Laniay, C. Konock, James Rowe, B. Bordon, W. S. Wilson, Sutherland, James How, Pease, W. Hollenburg, James Hill, Lambling, H. Bramwell, A. W. Lit- tle and Charles Willard. 1 60 HISTORY OF CLOUD CObNTY, KANSAS. FIRST SCHOOL BUILDIKG. Prompted by that American spirit of enterprise, the people in January, 1 87 1, began agitating the building of a school house. It was decided to build one of stone and large enough for the children tlien in the town and those who would probably settle within the following year. It was decided to raise four thousand dollars by issuing school district bonds, and the vote was nearly unanimous. The building was located where the high school building now stands. It is a matter worthy of record, the obstacles and problems met with in that early day in erecting large buildings. That the building was faulty is true, but the fault was not in plan or work so much as in the material. First, they had to use rock whose strength and working qualities not a man here or else- where understood and which compelled them to work at a disadvantage. We must "patronize home industries," so all the cottonwood that could be worked in lumber was used; the frame work and roof were made of this material. They knew its strength and weight, but they did not know that if a board of it were laid in the barnyard at night it would warp and walk out into the street before morning. The building of this large and substan- tial edifice gave an air of solidity and permanence to their little town and when people seeking for a location came, they would remark, "Well, that looks as if you meant to stay" (referring to the school building). Another would say, "Education of the youth seems to be a first consideration with the people here and as I have a family of children I will locate with you." In connection with this it may be said the spirit that prompted the peo- ple at that time to build so expensive a house has been ever foremost with them, and they have spent more money in an educational way than any other city of equal population in the state of Kansas. MORE COUNTY SEAT TROUBLE. When the spring of 1871 was ushered in, the commissioners still refused to recognize Concordia as the county seat, and the town company pressed its mandamus suit begun the autumn before. We deem this of suffi- cient historical importance to justify the publication of a copy of the writ. "Before the Honorable William H. Canfield, judge of the Eighth judicial district of Kansas. "The State of Kansas, Cloud Coimty, ss : "James Hagaman and William McK. Burns, plaintiffs, vs. W. M. Page, John Murphy and Chester Button, county commissioners of Cloud county; Ebenezer Fox, county clerk; David Heller, county treasurer, and B. H. McEckron, county super in taident of common schools of said county, defendants. — Notice : "The above named defendants will take notice that on the 24th day of October, 1870, the plaintiffs will apply to the Honorable William H. Can- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. i6i field, judge of the Eighth judicial district, at Clay Center, in the county of Clay and state of Kansas, for an alternative writ of mandamus, command- ing the said defendants to remove their offices, books and papers belonging thereto, to Concordia, the county seat of said Cloud county, or show cause by a day to be named in the writ why they have not done so. "Dated October 13, 1870. McClure & Humphrey^ "Attorneys for Plaintiffs." This proceeding was not pressed at the time, the petitioners deeming it best to hold off until the land office was open for business, in the meantime hoping the recalcitrants would come to their senses by coming to the county seat. Registrar of deeds, J. S. Bowen, sent word by horseback that he would "be there just as qviickly as he covild find a place to shelter his fam- ily." and probate judge, D. J. Fowler, sent word that he was "coming a running." Bowen bought the court house for thirty cents on the dollar, where he moved his family, and Mr. Linney, having purchased the Carnahan building (which stood on the corner now occupied by the Chicago Lumber Company office) and moved his family and goods there, Mr. Bowen took possession. Judge Fowler, having found a place "whereon to lay his head," opened his marriage shop and went to work issuing licenses. Tlie others failing to put in an appearance, the suit was revived, but before the \\Tit was served all signalized their willingness to come if they were let off without paying costs, which was granted them. This ended the great source of trouble which, began more than a year before and which had done thousands of dollars' damage to the town and a great financial loss to the town company. The company paid the costs in this case, amounting, with attorney's fees, to tlie sum of one hundred and fifty dollars. BUSINESS BLOCKS ERECTED. Gibbs & Snovyden began the erection of their building for a drug store. It occupied the southeast corner of Sixth and Washington streets and was the first drug store in Concordia. About the same time Marshall & Andrews built their livery stable which stood in block one hundred and forty-nine on Sixth street. Henry Buckingham began an addition to his "whale back" printing office in March. R. P. Davis and Byron E. Sheffield erected build- ings the same spring. M. McKinnon built an addition to his store and also commenced work on a dwelling. All during the spring building was brisk in the little city. Everywhere the thump of the hammer and the music of the saw and plane were heard. Many business blocks were completed and under way. It was a marvel to all, and looked as if they might have a great city at once. The most important enterprise started and completed this year was the 1 62 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. building of a flouring mill by Mr. Lanoue. He erected a large stone build- ing on the site of his saw mill, put in the machinery and made the first flour ever made in Concordia. The mill was operated by steam. Second only in importance to the coming of the railroad was the con- struction of the dam across the Republican river; the most remarkable, inas- much as it was undertaken by one man, and he of little means. Had a rich corporation been at the head of the undertaking it would have employed engineers of great reputation to plan and make estimates and thousands of dollars would have been the probable cost. Mr. Lanoue worked long and earnestly to establish a water power, and there was no limit to his courage or he would have renounced his efforts. The river where the dam is built was four hundred feet wide, and in high water times was thirteen feet deep (which occurred in 1869), running eight miles an hour. The sand and gravel down to bedrock was twenty-four feet and one stratum of it was quicksand, an uncertain foundation on which to build. To be safe the dam must rest on a rock bottom and there is where Mr. Lanoue put it in the end — after four attempts. Work began on the dam in the summer of 1872, and when completed was pleasing to look upon, but like the "apples of Sodom," fair without but false within. Lincoln township voted Mr. Lanoue twelve hundred dollars on condition that he make a road- way for wagons over his dam. March 11, 1875, Mr. Lanoue completed the work of elevating and aproning the dam, which greatly strengthened it, increased the power, and completed one of the best free roadways anywhere over the Republican river. With a twelve-inch head of water the great wheel was started for busi- ness, and the machinery was kept humming through the night, grinding fifty bushels more wheat than the steam power had ever done in the same time. The public congratulated Mr. Lanoue upon the consummation of his long cherished hope. The dam cost Mr. Lanoue in the neighborhood of ten thousand dollars. Mr. Lanoue possessed unbounded faith, which is the success of every- thing. The strength of the feeble, the salvation of the miserable, "The greatness of individuals or nations may be measured precisely by the great- ness of their faith." Three times within four years his efforts were severely damaged by floods and ice, but each time he immediately repaired damages with the same undaunted courage that marked all his undertakings, and the roar of his mammoth wheel could be heard night and day. The repeated breaks in the dam finally crippled Mr. Lanoue financially tintil he was forced to take in partners. In the spring of 1878 George R. Letoumeau, A. Berard and A. Gauselin, of Kankakee, Illinois, lx>ught an interest in the mill. The bargain was closed at night, the papers signed up, the money paid and the gentlemen from Kankakee slept soundly in the happy thought that they had purchased a fortune, but they woke in the morning to find their dreams an illusion. During the night the water had HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 163 bursted through its confines in an entirely new place on the right bank of the river, and through this gap the entire volume of vvrater was running, which would require much labor and expense to rebuild; but Mr. Lanoue was cool and treated the loss as a small matter, saying, "It is only a trifling break." However, it took a month of hard work by a small army of men and twenty-five hundred dollars in money to rebuild it. Unlocked for trouWe and expense after this forced Mr. Lanoue to sell. In 1884 this property passed into the hands of a stock company of which H. M. Spalding was president and afterward sole proprietor. After operating it for a number of years he had reason to be dissatisfied with the treatment received from the merchants of Concordia, and sold at a sacrifice of thousands of dollars to Lingle & Cline. On account of his health Mr. Lingle was compelled to retire from business, and Mr. Cline became and is at present sole owner of one of the best properties in the state of Kansas. The dam is jointly owned by Mr. Cline and the Concordia Electric Light Company in which Mr. Spalding is president and a large stockholder. The interest of the owners is one-third to the Concordia Electric Light Company and two-thirds to Mr. Cline, the former using* the power from the time the lamps are lighted in the afternoon until twelve M. THE EVENTS OF 1872. The year 1872 was prolific in events for Concordia. The voting of bonds for the railroad; the organization of the city as third-class; the retire- ment of the Buckinghams from the Empire and its purchase by H. E. Smith ; the commencement of the Presbyterian church; building of the malt house and the brewery; the great conflagration that laid waste the best portion of the city; the confiscating of the greater portion of the town company's lands. The brewery stood just above the mill where some of the ruins may yet be seen. The builders were D. W. WilHams and Orin Bennett (brothers- in-law) and for several years they did a thriving business. On the eve of December 24, the night before Christmas, 1872, occurred the big fire. It 1 64 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. orig-inated in the Collins & Dennis building, then owned by W. O. Wagoner. Eight buildings were burned and one torn down and thrown into the middle of the street, which checked the fire and saved the other nine buildings. The most important building destroyed was the Glidden House, a good hotel for that early day. The fire cast a gloom over the struggling little city, and many predicted that years would pass ere it would be rebuilt as good as before. This was Concordia's first disaster and entailed a loss of about thirty thousand dollars. The city was in its infancy and this was a very serious set back to the new western town, but not many months elapsed ere new and better buildings were erected and larger stocks of goods were brought in. T. I,., F. W. and Heber Sturges had put their money in a hall which was totally destroyed, with no insurance. The destruction of this property was a severe blow to the town as \\e\\ as to the owners of the property. In February, 1873, A. J. Shelhammer, N. H. Eaves and J. M. Haga- man began to excavate preparatory' to the erection of a stone building in block one hundred and thirty-five, south side of Sixth street. This was in the burnt district and revived the flagging- hopes of the people. It showed these men still had confidence in the future of their town and other citizens took courage ■ from the public-spirited . act. The buildings were two stories and ready for occupancy in about eight months. The only stone buildings at this time were those of C. Case and Oliver Currier. ~ J. E. Burress began a stone building on the southeast corner of Broad- way and Sixth streets the following summer. At this time the trouble over the town site was being contested and greatly retarded the growth of the town. The inhabitants desired to have thrown open to actual settlers the most of the land contained within the town of Concordia, and after quite a struggle before the United States land office succeeded in securing to all these citizens, and those who might afterward become such, the unpatented lands within Concordia. STATE NORMAL SCHOOL. Governor Osborne was installed in the office of governor in January, 1874, and the citizens prevailed upon him to appoint a nomial school at Concordia and it went into operation March 5 of that year, with B. F. Rob- inson as principal and J. S. Shearer, assistant. Concordia, being a central point, was selected as a site for the location of the State Normal School, and but for the theory of some of the legislators, that to curtail educational insti- tutions was economy combined with the jealousy of other towns in eastern Kansas, this school would have been successfully maintained. The citizens of Concordia were much interested in the institution, but were destined to have it taken from them by the legislature of 1876 and a system of normal institutes established instead, abolishing the several State Normal Schools. Senator N. B. Brown made an effort to re-establish the normal school and prepared a bill to that effect, which he pushed vigorously HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 165 but could not bring the measure to a successful end. The school was sup- plied by the state with the implied promise that it should be sustained. Sen- ator Brown championed this cause manfull}^. The citizens of Concordia invested twenty thousand dollars in this insti- tution. Representative C. K. Wells secured the first and only appropriation for the State Nomial School at Concordia. The normal from the first was a success, showing need of the school and Concordia's fitness for the loca- tion. It was proposed to re-establish the school and eighteen sections of state lands were asked for that purpose. In 187^ a bill was before both houses asking for an appropriation of six thousand dollars for the re-estab- lishment of the institution, which was defeated by a strong effort of the opposition. In 1874 the school building erected in Concordia in 1871 was enlarged and given to the state for the holding forth of the State Normal. After the school was abolished, the building was transferred back to the city schools. This institution went down, not because it weis not useful and greatly needed, but because Emporia stepped to the front and "gobbled it up." A CITY OF THE THIRD CLASS. The city of Concordia was organized as a city of the third class in August, 1 87 1, and R. E. Allen was chosen mayor. He was succeeded in 1873 by E. Guilbert, who held the office one year. He was followed by Mil- ton Reasoner, who held the office four terms. The mayors since then have been elected in the following order : J. M. Hagaman, E. E. Swearenger, G. W. Marshall, Thomas Wrong, W. F. Groesbeck and C. Twitchel. In April, 1887 Concordia was organized into a city of the second class, with J. Green mayor, and the term extended to two years.- The next mayors were as follows: D. L. Brown, W. W. Caldwell, G. W. Marshall, Walter Darlington, John Stewart, E. W. Messall and S. C. Wheeler, the present mayor. The history of Concordia has been somewhat similar to most town settlements in Kansas. Clashing interests had the effect only of calling attention to their town and the building up of the thriving and prosper- ous city. Much trouble arose o\'er the acquisition of enoug'h citizens to enable them to count two hundred inhabitants to organize as a city of the third class. They had some politicians then who perhaps did not hesitate to count amongst the two hundred several who might have come to town to trade off a few pounds of butter or a few dozen eggs, or perhaps to get a drink, for they had then "a senate" and some other establishments where liquor was dispensed. The population increased quite rapidly and their business extended from the neighborhood of Waterville westward to Smith county. They became the center of trade and have maintained their pre-eminence, and as their citizens were generally public spirited and liberal, they have now a well built city provided with churches, schools, a magnificent court house, hand- 11 i66 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. some homes, mills, etc., and greater conveniences than many of the older towns in the east. They are the center of many systems of railroads, con- necting them with all points of the compass, and are destined to be an important point of trade on lines connecting them with the Pacific, Galves- ton and the Atlantic ocean. Their lands through the changes brought about by the climate and the industry of the people have risen in value from the mere government price of one dollar and twenty-five cents to fifty dollars and upwards an acre in close proximity to towns and railway stations. It has been observed dur- ing the last thirty years that almost every man who settled upon an original claim was impressed with the belief that he had dropped upon the loveliest spot of the universe, and as they have increased in years, imbibed the desire to obtain other lands alongside that their children might remain in the same favored locality. The dugouts have long ago given place to substantial stone or frame residences which would do credit to the suburban neighborhoods of the far east. EVENTS OF 1874. The spring of 1874 did not promise ntuch and upon good crops hinged a large portion of the prosperity of the town. On April 14, 1874, a fright- ful blizzard swooped down upon the country; eight inches of snow fell and the mercury dropped to seventeen degrees below zero. Several persons froze to death within a radius of ten miles around the town of Concordia. Considerable stock perished in this terrible storm. There was a double affliction visited vipon the people this year — drouth and grasshoppers — either being sufficient .to destroy the corn, none being raised that year anywhere in the path of the grasshoppers. But the people who considered it less to the discredit of the county, charged the loss to grasshoppers, -while those who looked upon them as a greater curse than drouth, charged it to that source. The grasshoppers appeared July 24, 1874; the corn was past redemp- .tion before the pests put in an appearance. The drouth was the most severe ever experienced in this section. Early corn that tasseled in June dried completely up and the tassels were blown in the wind like chaff. The fol- lowing winter was a hard one for the people and because of lack of food and clothing, aid had to be extended to thousands of citizens. The years 1875-6-7-8-9 were good average crop years and every- bod)^ firmly believed there never would be another drouth in this county; however, the next year one came. HISTORICAL MENTION OF CONCORDIA NEWSPAPERS. .A.S before stated Henry Buckingham established the first newspaper in Concordia, the "Republican Valley Empire." This was the first newspaper HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 167 in either the Solomon or Repubhcan valley above Junction City, which is of more than passing interest. That it lost its identity by being absorbed by the Blade in June, 1902, is to be regretted for its historical value. Follow- ing is an article written by Mr. Buckingham, which will be read with inter- est by the old settlers : THE FOUNDING OF THE EMPIRE. A Brief Account of the Establishment of the First Paper in the Republican and Solomon Valleys, Written by H. Buckingham and Pub- lished in the Empire, June 14, 1894. Editor Empire: Some time ago, on one of the birthdays of the Empire, you stated that you would like to have from me a history of the founding of the paper. I promised to furnish it, but put it off from time to The Birthplace of the Empire. time till now. On its last birthday I was quite taken back to learn really Tiow old the Empire was. I could hardly realize that so long a time had sped away since the little sheet was first issued. And the present number is volume twenty-five! How time flies! When associate editor of the Leavenworth Times in 1859-60, I heard much about the Republican and Solomon valleys from the surveyors who had surveyed the country, and others. They spoke of the great beauty of those valleys — the fertility of the soil, the fine streams full of fish, the tim- ber abounding with turkey and deer, the prairies alive with chickens and "the buffalo not far away during the summer. 1 68 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. At that time the Indians were generally considered peaceable, but it was felt that it was too far away from the settlements to be absoluely safe from their depredations, as they might male a raid at any time. It was known that a few bold, hardy pioneers had settled along the lower portions of the streams, but it was considered that a man "took his life in his hand" when he attempted settlement A'ery far up. At that time a friend who was contemplating bringing a flock of sheep from Ohio came to the ofiice and wanted to know of me where he could herd them with safety. I replied. that it was not deemed safe to go much farther west than Nemaha county ! That was the feeling of uncertainty .at that time. Rumors of raids were quite frequent, and settlers were compelled to be on the lookout. The war came and but little attention was paid to the country, so far as I recollect ; but after it was over, settlers— -many of them having soldiered in that country — began to settle farther up the river. The Indians were reported to be unfriendly, if settlers went far above where Clifton now is, and decidedly hostile to those who Avent to and beyond the Great Spirit Springs, now in Mitchell county. We heard quite frequently of Indian raids and it was not deemed safe to settle far up as late as 1868 — possibly a short time later. But the settlers continued to encroach on the Indian country and the enterprising merchants of Leavenworth, the largest and most enterprising town in the west, sent men to gather in the trade of that region. It may sur- prise many of your readers when they are told that the trade of Leaven- worth once reached from the Missouri river to and beyond Salt Lake and Montana, to Old Mexico, and nearly to the eastern boundaries of California and Oregon. How trade has changed since the days of ox and mule teams ! A regular Santa Fe mule team Avoukl be a curiosity to thousands of people who now live along the old Santa Fe and California trails. In the spring of 1869 my friend R. F. Flermon, now of Clyde, and a well known citizen, who ..waa connected with a large wholesale house in LeaA-enwbrth, said to me one day, "I have just returned from the Repub- lican valley — pretty well up — and they have started a small store near the mouth of Elk creek, and it is a most beautiful country. Settlers are com- ing in, and I have decided to "make my home there and bought an interest in a store. It will make a good business point." I asked him how a news- paper would pay. He replied that he could see no reason why one would not do well in a short time. So in the fall I concluded to take a look for my- self, and boarded the cars for Manhattan and from there went with the mail, which was carried in a hack as far as Lawrenceburg. I think all of the goods for the Republican country and most of the Solomon, were shipped via team from Manhattan. The hack carried the mail via Whiting,. Wakefield and Clay Center. The other towns between Manhattan and Clyde were Riley Center, .Bala, Rosedale, Morganville and Clifton. There was but little settlement in any of the towns named. I think Whiting was the largest and Clay Center next. None of them had over one hundred HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 169 people, and some were merely staked off. Clyde had a population of about two hundred in 1870, and Concordia was jiot quite so large. It was late when we arrived at Clyde. The ride was a cold, disagree- able one, but the scenery along the route amply repaid the trip. One of the finest views I ever saw in Kansas was from the hill near the farm house of Mr. Haynes, where Clifton now stands. There were but few houses in sight, and for miles up and down the valley it appeared like an "unbroken wilderness." The traveler v/ho glides over the line of railroad that now traverses the valley, can form no idea of the real beauty of that portion of the valley, now thickly settled and in a high state of cultivation. I was so well pleased with the country and its prospects and the people of Clyde and surrcTunding community, that J determined to put in a press in the spring, it then being too late in the fall and besides no room could be secured. Returning to Leavenworth I remained there until after the holidays, and then concluded to take a trip over the Central Branch via Atchison to Waterville, the terminus of the road, and go by team to the Republican. It -was said at Clyde that no teams had come direct from Waterville to the Republican, that no road had been made and the streams were not bridged, etc. Arriving at Waterville I found the only way to get over to the Repub- lican was to take a team which had come down from Republic county to the mill and go to Salt creek, and from there to Clyde. I made arrangements to go that way and was to meet a team a few miles west of Waterville at the junction of the mill road. On arriving at the junction I found the team had passed. On my way back I met Mr. McNab, Sr., one of the pioneers of that section — and a grand old man — returning home from Waterville. He kindly invited me to his claim some sixteen miles from that place. Seeing that I was in for a trip of sixty miles by "Ford & Walker's line," I con- cluded to accept the invitation. A storm came up just before dark and we had a very cold ride and walk to his hospitable home, traveling over ten miles after night had set in. The next day the storm grew worse, and the weather was extremely cold. The wind blew so hard we could stay out of doors but a short time. I remained at Mr. McNab's three days, when the storm abated and I concluded to start for the Republican in a buggy. We had not proceeded far when we ran into a snow bank and I decided to con tinue the journey on foot. I reached Clyde the next evening after a hard tramp. A portion of the way I got a ride. I found the citizens of Clyde and surrounding country anxious to have the press located there, and they rendered every assistance in their power. After remaining there some time Messrs. E. Kennedy, E. Cline and Charles Davis took their teams and we went to Manhattan for the press and material. In a few days it was on the ground. The building it was put in was a log one, about twenty feet square, and was the first building in Clyde. It was put up by the Messrs. Heller and had been used as a dwelling, post- I70 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. office, hotel, store and court house. It was torn, down a few years after- wards but a picture of it is in possession of some of the citizens of Clyde. The first number of the pstper was issued May 31, 1870. It had six columns to the page and no patent inside or outside. It was called the Republican Valley Empire, but after it had fallen into other hands the name was changed to Concordia Empire. During the summer the office was removed to a more commodious building, but not being sufficiently warm, it was impossible to continue its publication there. The plant was soon afterwards removed to Concordia, which had been chosen as the county seat, and it has been printed there ever since, the first number being issued December 24, 1870. The first edition printed was about five hundred copies, but it soOn increased to near one thousand. The emigrants as they passed through town, bought ;l large number of pajDers to send back to their friends, and many had them sent to their new homes in the western counties. It was my intention to write some reminiscences of early times in Cloud county and northwest Kansas generally, but my files are not at hand, and the names of so many who took part in settling up the country escape me, that I cannot make the history complete, but defer it to another time. The present sketch is not what I would make it, or what it ought to be, for the same reason. While there was nothing in the enteqjrise in a pecuniary point of view, it is no small satisfaction to the writer to know that the first paper estab- lished in that region was a credit to all concerned, and recognized as such throughout the state. And further, that it did something to make known and build up one of the finest countries that turns its face to the sun. Yours, Kingfisher, Oklahoma Territory, June 12., 1894. H. Buckingham. THE EXPOSITOR. The Expositor made its appearance Augu.st 15, 1875, edited by J. S. Paradis. In politics it was independent, principally devoted to news, local and personal, "independent in everything, neutral in nothing," its columns were open to both sides of every question of public interest, its motto "Equal rights and justice to all." For six years the Expositor was one of the leading journals of Cloud county. Its editor, J. S. Paradis, was identi- fied with the history of Cloud county, and participated in the building uj: of all its best interests and shared its prosperity. September i, 1881, the Expositor passed into the hands of W. E. Reid and was merged with another paper called the Times — which was started by ^V. E. Reid — into the Republican Empire. Mr. Reid was a man of ability, energy and grit, and under his man- agement the paper prospered. It was subsequently controlled for a short time by Charles W. McDonald, and afterward sold to F. W. Sawhill, the present postoffice incumbent. Subsequently the paper was published by W. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 171 W. Dunning as a Democratic paper. It changed its politics when purchased by Edward Marshall. The journal known as the Day Light was later combined with the Empire and conducted by Sawhill & Marshall. The combination was after- ward severed and for many years the Empire was one of the leading papers of Concordia, controlled by Sawhill & Kimball. THE CONCORDIA BLADE. J. M. Hagaman, one of the most energetic and conscientious men, and who deserves more credit than he is given, was the founder of the Con- cordia Blade in 1879. When politicians or others attacked him, they found him supplied with ammunition, little guns, big guns, in fact a whole battery to urge a relentless warfare. He worked in the interests of the Democratic party. The election of county treasurer was the most exciting, bitter and memorable in the history of Cloud county, and was a surprise to both com- batants, resulting in a landslide for H. M. Spalding, his opponent being buried by a veritable avalanche of votes. The Republicans had had every- thing their own way up to this time. The few Democrats hardly dared to hold a meeting because of the bitter prejudice against them. Because of the unpopularity of Democrats, the bringing of one out for this office against a candidate for the Republican boss was looked upon as a huge joke by many of that party, but before the canvass had gone far they realized they were facing a verj'- serious situation. W. G. Reid, the present register of deeds, was a candidate for treasurer named by the Republican party. His brother. W. E. Reid, had held the office for four consecutive years, the limit of the law. Walter G. Reid had been his deputy and now it was proposed they reverse places. The Blade, although a Republican paper, bolted the nomination of Mr. Reid, led the fight and he was defeated by a majority of six hundred and eighty-five, by the Democrats. The Empire also bolted and worked for H. M. Spalding, as did James Strain, F. W. Sturges and many other lead- ing Republicans. The Blade was the first paper run by steam power in Concordia. The paper still exists and is ably managed by George Burroughs and George A. Clark, secretary of state. A daily Blade is also run in connection with the weekly paper. THE KANSAN. The Kansan was originally the Kritic and founded by Thomas Owens, Jr., now of Topeka. Ferd Prince, of Glasco, became associated with this enterprise and the name was changed to Alliant. The paper was subse- quently purchased by Homer Davies in November, 1896, and the name of 172 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Kansan was adopted, having purchased that right from the Jamestown paper, now the Kansas Optimist. This paper under Mr. Davies' manage- ment has become one of the foremost papers of the county. In 1895 J. Austin Marshall moved his local paper from Miltonvale and published it in Concordia under the name of the Press. After several changes the Press was enlarged to a six column quarto and is edited by Phil Moore, of Roswell, New Llexico. Under his management the paper has become one of the most vigorous and brightest in the country. THE TIMES. In March, 1884, the Times, iiublished by Charles J. English and "Ben" Sheafor, was started. They conducted this paper for one year and sold to Glen F. Chase, who, after a lapse of twelve months, sold to F. A. and F. M. Filson. The Times was distcontinued in 189 1. THE DAH-Y BLADE. In March, 1887, the Daily Blade was started by J. M. and J. E. Haga- man. It was Republican in politics, was a financial failure and suspended November i, 1888. The Daily Blade was a seven column folio and every number contained six columns of the latest foreign news, twelve columns of miscellaneous matter and from four to six of local matter. • RESUME OF THE CLOUD COUNTY NEWSPAPERS. Republican Valley Empire, Clyde and Concordia, 1870-72; Concordia Empire, Concordia, 1876-83; The Republican Empire, Concordia, 1883-87; Concordia Empire, Concordia, 1887-1902; Concordia Blade and Empire, Concordia, 1902, continues; The Concordia Republican, Concordia, 1882-83; The Concordia Expositor, Concordia, 1875-81; The Cloud County Blade, Concordia, 1879-82; Kansas Blade, 1882-98; Concordia Daily Blade (suspended from February 5, 1885, until March, 1887), 1884-88; Daily Blade, Concordia, 1902, continues; Cloud County Critic (Kansas Critic in 1888), Concordia, 1882-88; The Concordia Times, Concordia, 1884-91; Concordia Democrat and Daylight, Concordia, 1886; The Con- cordia Weekly Dajdight, Concordia, 1886-98; The Alliant, Concordia, 1890-95; The District School (monthly), Concordia, 1893-95; The Kan- san, Concordia, 1895, continues; The Concordia Press, Concordia, 1893, continues; The Clyde Herald, Clyde (not issued from December to. Febru- ary, 1 881), 1878, continues; Clyde Democrat, Clyde, 1880-82; Cline's Press, Clyde, 1884; The Clyde Mail,' Clyde, 1884-87; The Clyde Argus, Clyde, 1888-96; The Farmers Voice, Clyde, 1891, continues; The Clyde Republi- can, Clyde, continues; The Kansas Sunflower, Clyde, 1894-95; Glasco Tribune, Clyde, 1881-82; The Glasco Sun, Clyde, 1883, continues; The New HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 173 Era, Clyde, 1890-93; Cloud County Kansan, Jamestown, 1881-95; The Quill, Jamestown, 1888-90; The Kansas Optimist, Jamestown, 1895, con- tinues; The Miltonvale News, Miltonvale, 1882-91; Miltonvale Chieftain, Miltonvale, 1887-88; Miltonvale Press, Miltonvale, 1892-93; Miltonvale Tribune, Miltonvale, 1894; The Miltonvale Press, Miltonvale, 1896-98; Miltonvale Record, Miltonvale, 1901, continues; Ames Advanpe, Ames, 1885-86; The Ames Bureau, Ames, 1887; Come and See (a monthly con- ference reporter), Ames, 1895-98; Aurora News, Aurora, 1892-93. There were several other papers, though of short duration, viz : The Glasco Banner, edited by V. C. Post from February 25, to July 10, 1880; Miltonvale Star, established by Robb & Phelps, and published from April 14, to August 26, 1886; The Reformer was published in Concordia from September 15 to November 2, 1886; The Weekly Courier was pub- lished at Ames from March 23 to June 29, 1888; The Miltonvale Review, from July 25 to November 14, 1889; The Advance was published in Mil- tonvale from January 15 to April 6, 1892; The Reporter was issued there from February 25 to March 17, 1892; The Miltonvale Echo from July 26, 1892, to Januar)' 6, 1893; The Clyde Star was published in Clyde from March 14, to April 25, 1884; The Daily Reporter was published in Con- cordia from August 8, to September 3, 1887; The Western Rustler, a monthly paper, was issued in Clyde during the months of January and Feb- ruary, 1889; The Miltonvale Leader, August 31, 1893, to January 4, 1894; The District School (monthly) was edited in Aurora from December, 1893, to March, 1894; The Daily Daylight was published in Concordia from May 9 to August 21, 1895; The Cash Merchant (semi-monthly) was published in Glasco, May i to October 15, 1897; Gospel Leaves was edited in James- town by James H. Lathrop from October, 1880, to March, 1881. GROWTH OF CONCORDIA. January 16, 1877, the Central Branch Railroad reached Concordia. As strong evidence of the great need of the railroad, the following facts are given : One thousand one hundred car loads of freight were hauled from this town alone, the first thirty days after the road reached the city. There was also long trains of merchandise brought in. March 5, 1878, Concordia was brought into closer connection with the outside world by the operating of the telegraph line which was attached to the batteries on that day. Concordia is the natural center of a large trib- utary of rich fanning lands, and like the old saying "all roads lead to Rome," this city being a railroad center, all roads lead to Concordia. The land office and the water power afforded by the Republican river was the nucleus that drew the town site and county seat to Concordia. The bringing of the land office in 1870, gave the town an impetus and she began to take on a vigorous growth, since which time it has been rapid and sub- stantial until now it can boast of being one of the most beautiful and pros- perous cities in northwest Kansas with a population of five thousand people. 174 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. CONCORDIA, HER FINANCIAL, COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL INTERESTS. Estimating the distance, in an air line, Concordia is said to be situated one hundred and eleven miles in a northwesterly direction from Topeka, the capital of the state. It is charmingly located on the south side of the Republican river, and is the seat of Cloud county. These important features, along wfth her railroad facilities, natural resources and developments, render this metropolis a conspicuous figure in the northwestern portion of the state. Street Scene in Concordia. Concordia is the center of a large and rich area of agricultural country and the products that thrive in this fertile region find an excellent market there, which add in turn to the commercial supremacy, for Concordia is the radiating point, the trade center of a large population of country. The business blocks excel in character those usually found in cities of this size, most of them being substantial structures of brick or stone, two and three stories in height and particularly uniform in proportions. Many of the stores are handsomely appointed, as the various illustrations of inter- iors show, and present a metropolitan appearance, giving evidence of the extended business they transact. There are two excellent hostelries, the long popular "Barons House," which is now owned and managed by C. H. Martin, an. experienced caterer, having been engaged in the hotel business for many years. Since Mr. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 175 Martin opened the house in June, 1902, he has remodeled and made many improvements, which render comfortable and excellent accommodations to the traveling' public. There are several smaller hotels where lower rates are given, but comfortable quarters insured. "The Caldwell" is under course of completion and will be one of the most elegantly equipped hotels in the west. Many of the industries of this city are given space and appear under their own headlines. The Barons House. There are many legal lights in Concordia, and although a peaceful city, situated in the midst of a law abiding population, they all thrive.. The medical profession is numerously represented and by some of the most able physicians in northwestern Kansas. Concordia has an unsurpassed high water pressure of the stand-pipe sys- tem. The water is absolutely pure, being forced into the great pipe, which is located on one of the hills on the southwest side of the city, from wells of living water. This perfect water system is also a great safeguard against conflagrations. In connection with this must be noted the well equipped fire department. From the hook and ladder company, instituted February 18, 1876, with fourteen members, and D. W. Williams, captain, and shortly afterward organized with, thirty members and adopted uniforms, the present efficient fire department has grown. Concordia's new sewer system, completed in 1902, at a cost of twelve thousand eight hundred and ninety-one dollars and thirty-three cents, is a credit to the town and from its excellent sanitary conditions, and its fine water supply, the people of this city enjoy the greatest measure of health. 176 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, 'KANSAS. The editorial staff of three papers, while at some variance politically and otherwise, are a unit as respects the advancement of Concordia's material interests. A well organized commercial club, made up of the most wide-awake and enterprising citizens, contributes much to the prosper- ity and advancement of the city. A few blocks removed from the business houses are handsome resi- dences and artistic cottages, whose beauty are greatly enhanced by a luxuri- ant growth of magnificent shade trees. These are found in all parts of the city, making it exceedingly pleasant in summer. The public buildings are stately edifices of modern architecture. The streets are not paved, a much needed factor which is being agitated by the city fathers, but the walks are admirably kept and in extent foot up a total of many miles. Few cities of the size of Concordia can boast of an electric light system giving more satis- factory service. Concordia being a radiating center, many commercial travelers have joined its residents in citizenship, ' something like seventy-five of them resid- ing there. Many have families and own their comfortable homes. No more enterprising citizens can be found, or who more gen- erously subscribe to enter- prises promoted for the gen- eral ^\•elfare, or for the growth of their adopted town. They are a jolly lot; extended travel and bump- ing up against the world, as it were, gives them an in- sight into human nature, broadens their views and renders them exceedingly companionable fellows, who draw to themselves a crowd in the corridors of the hotel or wherever they may have convened to distribute their stores of well chosen- "yams." They are almost invariably genial, full of humor and wit, their narratives ever appropriate and entertaining, never minus bright points. Several of them have holdings in various business interests in Concordia, some of whom have renounced the road entirely and become permanent dwellers in the city. Scores of these "commercial tourists" leave Concordia every Monday morning to visit the trade they ha^-e establis^hed, covering a territory of many miles north, south, east and west, and on the return trip again "Sun- day" in Concordia, the center of gravitation. Court House. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 177 All the secret, social and benevolent orders are represented in Con- cordia. St. John's Lodge No'. 113, A. F. & A. M., was organized in 1872. There is a Blue Lodge and Chapter of Masons. The Concordia Com- mandery is in the lead in conferring the Order of the Temple. In the two last reports of the grand reporter they were placed at the h^d of the list and won laurels over all in the state. An encampment of Odd Fellows was instituted in 1873, and is known as Concordia Lodge No. 92. The United Commercial Travelers have a strong organization here. Many oi the societies have elegant quarters. Especially is this true of the Benevolent Order of Elks. They maintain handsomely equipped, commodious aaB' well ventilated rooms, where for the time being the man of affairs can ertjby an evening of recreation and business cares are forgotten. _^^ THE RIVER BEFORE CHANGING ITS COURSE. During the high water of July, 1902, the Republican river changed its channel. Leaving the city, it turned its course about one mile further to. the northward, joining the old course about one and a half miles to the north- east. Its waywardness was the practical ruin of several fine farms; also The River Before Changing its Course. leaving the Concordia electric light plant and the Concordia mills without the water power by which' they were largely operated. This was a serious damage to the city, while it is a heavy expense to the county as well, neces- sitating the building of a new bridge. Various projects are being con- 178 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAI "Champion" Day in Concordia. sidered^ among, them the cutting^of a new channel through the neck of land where the river makes the farthest point south. The city of Concordia is located on rolling ground and has fine natural drainage. The town extends from the river well into the hills north and eastward. "Zion Hill," which lies directly west of the city, derives its origin from the nurherous divines who at one time resided in that part of the city. "Nobs Hill" lies west and south of the Washington school build- ing and was appropriately given its suggestive name be- cause of the aristocracy of that locality. "Jail Hill" lies to the southeast of the city. Here is located the county jail; hence the name. The Ijuilding is a substantial structure, located on the summit of the hill, and to the prisoner who is so unfortunate as to need be incarcerated there is no escape, until given his freedom at the hands of the official who holds the keys that will moA'c from their fast- enings the ponderous doors. Concordia is not a boom town, but en- joys a steady and substantial growth. There are no empty buildings, residences or otherwise, and the citizens are all alive to the best interests of their beautiful city. The moral and social atmoisphere compares favorably with any town of its size. While the religious side is looked to, social pleasures are also encour- aged, and many functions are held, which are elaborate in detail and dis- tinguished for their modern appointments. The Washington School. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 179 In noting the various enterprises which, .follow^ the author has no spe- cial interest, further than to give credit where it is merited, and they are pubhshed solely in the interests of the subscribers to the History of Cloud County. THE CONCORDIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS. The Lincoln School. One of America's many, many institutions is her mag- nificent public school system and nowhere on the continent is this exemplified to a great- er degree than in the fair state of Kansas. It is one of the principal elements of her greatness, and nowhere, per- haps, in the state are the edu- cational facilities of the pub- lic schools of Concordia sur- passed. From the modest little school house erected soon after the birth of Con- cordia, in 1870, modern structures valued at seventy-five thousand dollars have been erected. The Washington school was built in 1883; the first of the four build- ings that comprise the city's present schools. It is a fine brick building with eight rooms, a library and recitation rooms. The Lincoln is a four- room brick, erected in 1886. The same year the Garfield school, a two-roomed build- ing, was located in the north part of the city. The High school, which is situated on the comer of Washington and Seventh streets, was erected in 1900. This is a handsome building of sub- stantial architecture, and is the pride of Concordia. It is constructed with an audi- torium that has a seating capacity of two hundred and seventy-five, four large reci- tation rooms, principal's room and superintendent's office laboratory have been introduced. The Garfield School. A well ec[uipped gymnasium and a fine i8o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The school Hbrary consists of one thousand six hundred volumes, rich in historical and biographical works, besides a splendid reference library. Opportunity is afforded the student to exercise his mind to the utmost dur- ing the four years high school course, and those whose scholastic career ends there, are fitted for mental growi:h and development in after life. A total of seventeen teachers are employed, three of that number in the High school. Miss Ida R. Wilcox, one of the best known educators in the county, and a daughter of Rosetta Honey Wilcox. Avho taught the first school in the county, is principal and has filled that position for seven years, her work in the meantime being of a high character. The High School. A. B. Carney has been associated with the Concordia schools for ten successive years. . The discipline with which he conducted the first two years of his work is demonstrated by his promotion to a position of greater respon- sibility, which he has ably discharged and won recognized honor in the eight years his services have been retained as &y.iperintendent. Of the eight hundred and seventy pupils enrolled, one hilndfed.of them are High school students. The average daily attendance is upw^ards of seven hundred. The citizens of Concordia have shown an appreciation of the progress made in the public schools and have reason to feel especially proud. For years the school board has been selected from the most progressive citizens of the city, who have lightened the burden very materially by vieing with their predecessors in HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. i8r thoroughly equipping the buildings with necessary apparatus and employ- ing the most efficiait instructors at good salaries. The average in grades is forty-five dollars per month. The High school principal receives seven- ty-five dollars per month, and the superintendent twelve hundred dollars per year. Each succeeding year the Concordia public schools have pro- gressed and the development has been rapid, and the year that has just closed has been no exception to the preceding ones. THE GREAT WESTER-N BUSINESS AND NORMAL COLLEGE. In Sqitember, 1889, L. H. Hausani organized a business training in- stitution in the city o^f Concordia, Kansas, known as the Great Western Business College. Mr. Hausam, the founder and president of the college, was a man of experience in educational work, having been connected witlx commercial and normal school interests for a period of fifteen years, when entering uix)n the field at Concordia. He has the reputation of being one of the best known and experienced penmen in the entire country, and is the founder of the Kansas State Penman Association, the only one of its kind in the United States, and is the author of The New Educator of Penman- ship, the highest endorsed work of its kind ever published. Several o£ his pupils becaine very proficient in this art, being the only students who passed the examination provided by the Kansas State Penmanship Asso- ciation. E. N. Hall, a well qualified college bred man, liaving earned the degree of master of accounts from the Gem City Business College of Quincy, Illinois, was principal of the commercial department. W. J. WilliamSi a graduate from the Omaha Commercial College, was principal of the typewriting department. He was capable and enthusiastic, and produced some good results. Mr. O. F. Bearnes, principal of the short- hand department, was not only an experienced and comiJetent instructor, btit a cultured man of much value to the students in various ways. Each of the departments was well equipped, and every practical means used to make the Great Western Business College a successful institution, and while the enrollment never reached- its present proportion, good results were; 'obtained, and the college became favorably known. In June, 1902, Professor W. T. Lariinore, one of the most enthusiastic and zealous educational workers in the west, assumed ownership, and became president of the Great Western Business & Normal College. Under his management the school has made wonderfully rapid strides, and is destined to become one of the foremost colleges in the state. Its reputa- tion for thoroughness is being- widely established and the college quarters: are crowded to their utmost capacity with bright young men and \\omen; from various parts of the country, who, as soon as they are comi>etent, are placed in positions that command a lucrative salary, proportionate with the ability of the aspirant. This college offers advantages to the student who is desirous of cpialifying for a position of trust and responsibility, or 12 1 82 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. to the young man or woman who expect to manage their own affairs, as a thorough business training is valuable to all classes of people. Professor Larimore is not only one of the most energetic and tireless workers, but one of the most competent instructors in the state, being master of- three different systems in shorthand, presenting them all in- a clear, attractive -and comprehensive manner. Each student entering for the shorthand or business course receives instructions in the following subjects: Plain penmanship, pronunciation, business forms, lecturing, business practice, commercial law, spelling, letter writing, bookkeeping, debating, ofPce training, arithmetic, civil government, constitution and grammar. These classes are all conducted -under the most modern and approved methods, and the courses of study complete. The typewriting department has all the latest improvements and each desk is furnished with a machine, the key of which is given to the student; that he may use the typewriter whenever he desires. The elegant desks con-' taining the machines are regular eight drawer, roller top office desks. The eauipment of the Great Western Business college is one of the finest in the entire countr}^ SoHd oak individual desks, solid oak spring and screw office chairs, for students in the commercial department, solid oak typewriter desks iir typewriting department. The chairs of all the departfnents are of oak, with solid oak table -chairs for the lecture room. There are carpets on the aisles and halls throughout the building. Many feet of fine blackboard is pro\-ided; also a beautiful bank counter that students may be given the prac- tical experience so essential before entering upon office duty. The two office rooms are admirably fitted \\-ith library chairs and tables, Davenport couch, Toller-top office desks and the floor is covered with Brussels carpet. The building is steam heated, lighted by- electricity, and, although crowded with 5tudents, is well ventilated, clean and healthful. The normal department, intended for those who wish to teach school, or pursue a thorough course in the English branches, is so arranged that the best possible results are attained within the period of attaidance. The 'eloctition department is of a high character, and the advantages offered in this school are unsurpassed in the state. The instructor in -the telegraphy department, Professor J. P. Tjder, has had years of practical experience. The Great \\'estern Business and Normal College has made- every effort to secure the best talent in the music department, and are preparM to offer th.e best advantages to the students interested in music. They make a specialty of piano, string and band instruments of all kinds, and of voice culture. A college orchestra and a college band are among the leading and pleasing features of the school. BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF AV. T. LARIMOKE, THE PRESIDENT OF THE GRE.\T WESTERN BUSINESS AND NORMAL COLLE^GE. .\ farm near Jacksonville, Illinois, is the birthplace of W. T. Larimore, and here he first saw the light of day in August, 1863. Two -years subse- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 183 quently, his parents removed to Fairfield, Iowa, where he assisted in the duties of the farm, and when time and circumstances permitted, attended school. At the age of thirteen years he returned to his native state and when seventeen years of age graduated from the Jacksonville high school, and later entered upon a three-years' course in Parsons College, Fairfield, Iowa, where he made the most of his opportunities, and at the age of twenty entered the Illinois Normal Colleg-e, at Dixon, Illinois, where he completed the normal, business and shorthand courses. Here was where he received his first inspiration to excel as a teacher, and when he entered this field it was with a determination of leading in his profession and he has not failed in this worthy ambition. President Larimore has won laurels as an instructor, and is now on his seventeenth year of unparal- leled success. In 1885 he became as- sociated with the Western Norma! College of Shenandoah, Iowa, where, through his great zeal and energy, one of the most successful shorthand schools in the west was built up. O December 2, 1891, this popular insti- tution was totally destroyed by fire. Although everything was disorder and confusion. Professor Larimore gathered his students together, or- ganized classes and continued the col- lege work in a building secured for that purpose during the ensuing three m.onths. In the meantime he con- tracted with Professor F. F. Roose, business manager of the Lincoln Normal University, Lincoln, Nebraska, to take charge of the Lincoln College of Shorthand. On March I, 1892, Professor Larimore mo veil his school to Lincoln. The University building was completed on September 6, when he moved his students into the elegant new quarters, where he met with the best of success. In May, 1893, the university was sold to Savior & Givens. Professor Givens hav- ing been a shorthand teacher, negotiations soon began for the purchase of that department. The deal was consummated and the college turned o\'er to the above named firm on the ist of June. But Professor Larimore was not one to remain idle for a great length of time; his record was too bright a one to admit of rest, as the hundreds of pupils who have graduated under his tutorage and are holding important positions throughout the country was a record that did not admit of his being retired more than a brief period. He accepted a position as principal of the shorthand department of the Sioux City Commercial College, of Professor W. T. Larimore. 1 84 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Sioti.x City, Iowa, but resigned at the oqnration of the first year. His health having- become impaired, he journeyed south to recuperate his lost vitality and while there filled the position as principal in the shorthand dei>artment of the Massey Busin€ss College, located in Jacksonville, Florida. During this time the Lincoln Normal University had become financially embarrassed and at the earnest request of the manager Professor Larimore took charge of the shorthand department and succeeded in converting it into one of the test departments of the university. It was unfortunate for all when the building was totally destroyed by fire in November, 1898. Immediately after this event Professor Larimore was secured for the short- hand and typewriting departments of the Grand Island Business College, where he labored with zeal and enthusiasm, attaining brilliant success, and making an extraordinary record as an instructor. After closing a period of three an*! one-half years of work in that wide!3^-known college he accepted the presidency of the Great Western Business and Normal College of Con- cordia. Witb the gratifying success tliat has crowned his efforts are noticeable instances of the many obstacles he has found in his way, chief of which is a bitilding commodious enough to accommodate the growing needs of this progressive enterprise. In conclusion it is but a fitting tribute to say of Professor Larimore, the patience and kind interest he manifests in the present and fvrture welfare of his students flraws them very closely around him in bonds of sympathy and appreciation. He is ever ready to contribute to their advancement and busi- ness interests. L'nder his judicious administration the college has l>een wonderfully advanced, and Concordia feels a just pride in this growing insti- tution so welT calculated to promote the welfare of the rising generation; it does and should receive the fo^ering aid of the surrounding country. Pro- fessor Larimore has demonstrated since coming to Concordia what an energetic, live man can accomplish. By extensive advertising and his unhm- ited capacity for "rustling" he has attracted students from all over the state and even beyond the confines of Kansas. THE CONCORDIA ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY. Several years prior to the organization of the Concordia Electric Light Company an effort was made to light the city and a plant was established with an arc system for lighting the streets, which was fairly successful, but owing to crude workmanship and cheap lalxir it proved a failure; the plant was closed down and kerosene again resorted to, but the prosperous city of . Concordia was not accustomed to being outdone in the race for improve- ments and it made a new and permanent start on a firm basis, with ample means and men of ability to forge the project to the front, who spared no expense in the outlay for competent later, machinery and fixtures. The Concordia electric light and power plant stands pre-eminently to the front of Concordia's enterprises and compares favorably with the lighting HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 185 systems of many larger cities in this and older states. The plant was estab- lished by the firm of H. M. Spalding & Company in 1886, and incorporated two years later. The business was inaugurated by placing one thirty-light Western electric low-tension dynamo, which was speedily followed by two more dynamoes of the same capacity and style. The machinery was first run by water power alone, but in 1888 a Cor- liss engine was added. In 1898 a large general electric incandescent dynamo, or generator, was installed, with the alternating systein. It has been a source of much satisfaction to the company to say it has never solic- ited a customer since they placed this last machine. They have wired and in operation over thirty-fixe hundred lights, all of which have been installed by the unsolicited request of their patrons. The lighting of the streets, busi- ness blocks, residences and public buildings are a source of pride to the res- idents of the city and the public at large. E. A. Wentworth, one of the best electricians, in the country and a man of long and varied experience throughout the state, wired the city of Con- cordia, where he spent four .years, and much credit is due to his skill and artistic taste. H. M. Spalding, the prime mover in this enterprise, is pres- ident of the company, and T. J. McCue, one of Concordia's prominent busi- ness men, is treasurer. WEATHER BUREAU. The weather bureau office, which was established in Concordia May I, 1885, is and has been since it was first located, on the second floor of the B. S. W^illiams building. No. 204 West Sixth street. The office was opened by P. H. Cahill, who remained in charge until June, 1886, when he was succeeded by E. A. Ravenscroft, of St. Louis; Mr. Ravenscroft was relieved by L. M. Tarr in January, 1887, and Mr. Tarr by J. W. Byram in September, 1896. Mr. Byram, who is a gentle- manly and obliging official, is still on duty as official in chai'ge. \\'amings of storms, frosts and cold waves for the northern half of Kansas are sent out from this office. A daily bulletin, showing the weather conditions over the section of country between the Mississippi ri\'er and the Rocky mountains, is issued each morning, and mailed to one hundred and sixty-five persons and places. Records of all weather conditions are kept and from them is found the annual rainfall of Cloud county to be seven and ninety-eight one hundredths inches and the mean temperature fifty-three degrees. THE CONCORDIA TELEPHONE COMPANY. One of the most complete organizations in all its details in Cloud county is the Concordia Telephone Company. From a very diminutive affair it has assumed extended proportions until a complete system has been consummated, far reaching in its service. The company was instituted in the autumn of 1897, with eighty-three subscribers on the list. The Honor- 1 86 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. able G. W. ^Marshall was its first president; F. J. Atwood, treasurer, and F. W. Daugherty, secretary. A few months thereafter Mr. Marshall and Mr. Atwood sold their interests in the enterprise and J. W. Cline was elected president. Mr. Cline disposing of his portion, E. H. Fullerton was chosen to succeed him as president. In July, 1 90 1, G. G. Hill and William Lutt purchased Mr. Fullerton's interest in the stock, at which time the following officers were chosen : F. W. Daugherty, president; William Lutt, vice-president, and G. G. Hill, sec- retary and treasurer. These last named officers are the exclusive owners and remain the officials of the company- Mr. Daugherty has been with the organization from its beginning and has witnessed the growth of the enterprise from its eighty-three original subscribers to over five hundred patrons, including seventy-five of the lead- ing farmers of Cloud and Republic counties. Through its own and sur- rounding connections every town of any importance in the state of Kansas and many in Nebraska are reached. The}^ are also connected with Kansas City and all eastern points through the Union Telephone and Telegraph Company, in which Messrs. Daugherty, Lutt and Hill are largely interested. William Lutt, vice-president of the company, is a veteran ex-traveling man, whose territory called him to Concordia regularly for many years. Mr. Lutt's energy and enterprising nature m.ake him well c[ualified for the relative place he occupies. He is permanently established in Concordia and possesses qualities that render him a useful citizen. George G. Hill, sec- retary and treasurer of the company, has been reared in Kansas, having come to the state in his boyhood days. In 1874, while en route to Jewell City to join his brother, the late Robert W. Hill, he passed through Clyde and Concordia and remembers them as villages composed of a few "shacks." This was before the advent of railroads and Mr. Hill walked from Clyde to Jewell City and, as if to add spice and something novel to his experience, he unwillingly paired from the trail and wandered promiscuously over the wild region of the salt marsh for several hours ere the bewildered lad found his way. He, like Mr. Lutt, is an old-time commercial traveler, having fol- lowed that life for fifteen years, beginning with D. M. Steele & Company, of St. Joseph, Missouri.' Mr. Hill is a native of Carrollton, Illinois. He is of southern origin, his father and mother having been natives of Kentucky and Virginia, respectively. Collectively speaking the officers and owners of the Concordia Tele- phone Company combine the features essential to success, and as a combina- tion have attained a place among the solid fijiancial institutions of the country. HISTORY OF THE CLOUD COUNTY BANK. The Cloud County Bank, of Concordia, opened for business December 17, 1878, with an organized capital of $50,000. The directors were F. B. Smith, of Brandon, Vermont; H. C. Harrison, of the same place; R. J. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 187 Harper, of Manhattan, Kansas; E. Linney and W. C. McDonald, of Con- cordia. F. B. Smith was the principal founder and organizer. They occu- pied a small frame building on the same lot where the present structure stands until 1887, when they erected a substantial, two-story bank building. The bank's first president was H. C. Harrison; R. J. Harper, vice- president; C. W. McDonald, cashier, and Fred T. Atwood,, assistant cashier. September 15, 1880, C. W. McDonald resigned his position as cashier and was succeeded by F. J. Atwood, and J. F. Rogers was elected assistant cashier. October 15, 1883, F. J. Atwood resigned the position of cashier and V. H. Branch was elected to fill the vacancy. January ,5, 1881, F. B. Smith was elected president, and E. L. Warren, vice-president. October 25, 1883, Dr. W. H. Wright was elected vice-president to fill a vacancy caused by the death of E. L. Warren. October 15, 1883, W. T. Branch was elected assistant cashier, and October 13, 18S4, was succeeded by Walter E. Moore. January 5, 1886, William M. Peck was elected assistant cashier, and August I of the same year assumed the duties of cashier in place of V. H. Branch, resigned, and D. B. Harrison ^.vas elected assistant cashier. October i, 1891, E. B. Warren was elected assistant cashier to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of D. B. Harrison. ]\[r. Warren resigned October 8, 1894, and H. W. Barber, the present incumbent, was elected. There were no further changes of office until the death of the bank's lamented president, F. B. Smith, which occurred at his home in Brandon, Vermont, January 13, 1900. April 4, 1900, Dr, W. H. V/right was elected president, and George H. Young; vice-president, both of Brandon, Vermont, and sons-in-law of the late F. B. Smith. October 10, 1882, the bank increased its capital stock to $100,000. -Since the election of William M. Peck to the office of cashier, in 1886, he has had practically the entire charge of the bank. Under his personal super- vision they have constantly increased their volume of business. It has been said the stability and character of a communit)'- and its industries may be best judged by the standing of its banks. If this be true the people of Con- cordia have every cause for congratulation, for there is no bank in north- west Kansas that is held in more universal confidence by its patrons than the Cloud County Bank, of Concordia. For twenty-four years it has been recognized as one of the financial powers of Cloud county. There has never been a time during that period when its policy has not been in accord with the upbuilding of the country and the fostering of its industries and enterprises. THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK, OF CONCORDIA. The history of the First National Bank demonstrates \\hat an enter- prise that has at its head mai of business sagacity and enterprise can attain. Under these wise and conservative managers this bank is transacting an 1 83 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ■extensive and safe business and has gained a place among the most solid iinancial institutions of the state. It was established October 26, 1883, under the national banking sys- tem, with a capital stock of $50,000. The officials were : H. M. Spalding, president; George W. Marshall, vice-president; F. J. Atwood, cashier; W. W. Bowman, assistant cashier. The directors were: H. M. Spalding, George \Y. Marshall, J. C. Gafford, James I. Wyer, D. L. Brown, John Tate, Theodore Laing, C. A. Betournay and William Conner. These officers were elected to fill tlie fraction of the year, but were re-elected for the ensuing year, with the exception of F. E. Cobb to succeed D. L. Brown. The corporation purchased the commodious quarters, of the N. B. Brown banking house, but not the business of that firm. Mr. Spald- ing resigned the presidency of the bank May 7, 1884, and by virtue of office was succeeded by George W. Marshall. On September 10, 1884, Glenn E. Lathrop was elected bookkeeper and general assistant. December 10 of the same >ear resolutions were passed reducing the number of directors from nine to seven. January 14, 1885, George W. Marshall was re-elected president, suc- ceeding himself; Charles E. Sweet was elected vice-president, and F. J. Atwood was made director. August 24, 1885, Glenn E. Lathrop resigned and C. R. Piper, of Ludlow, Vermont, assumed the duties of bookkeeper. Mr. Piper withdrew in June, 1886, and was succeeded by Don H. Atwood, now of the Elk State Bank, of Clyde. Thomas Wrong was made director by the death of John Tate. In September, 1886, a meeting was called to consider the feasibility of increasing the capital stock to $100,000; there was not a dissenting vote, hence the proposition carried and was put into effect. On March- 3, 1887, Glenn E. Lathrop, who had formerly ■ been book- keeper, was tendered and accejited the position of cashier, succeeding F. J. Atwood, who became second ^'ice-preside^t and manager, each assuming the duties of their respective offices beginning with June, 1887. January II, 1888, F. J. Atwood was elected president of this prosperous enterprise and during the sixteen years that have elapsed he has been the presiding genius and in reality the chief manager since its organization. At this meet- ing the office of second \-ice-president was abolished. D. H. Atwood resigned his position as bookkeeper in July, 1888, to assume the duties of cashier in the bank he promoted in Atu'ora. After Mr. Atwood's resignation Mrs. Jessie H. Atwood filled that position very efficiently. May 6, 1889, W. W. Bowman succeeded Glenn E. Lathrop, resigned, and has served in the position of cashier continuously ever since. At the same time James I. Wyer, Jr., was elected assistant cash- ier. In August, 1895, James I. Wyer withdrew for the purpose of entering upon a librarian course in the State University of Minnesota. He subse- quently completed his studies in Albany, New York, and received the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 189 appointment of librarian in tl^e State University of Nebraska. Mrs. Wyer is a sister of Mrs. Atvvood. In March, 1896, the number of directors were reduced from seven to five, the minimum number. January 5, 1898, the Citizens National Bank went into liquidation and George H. Palmer, who had been the cashier of that firm, was elected assistant cashier of the First National Bank. Mr. Pal- tner was deceased alx)ut one year later. II. C. Wones became teller in July, i8g8, and on February 6 of the following year he was elected assistant cashier, still acting in that capacity and is a valued and efficient employe. On or about the same time Carl W. j\llendoerfer became bookkeeper and general assistant. In September, J 901, Mr. Allendoerfer resigned and accepted a trustworthy position with the American National Bank, of Kan- sas City, Missouri, where he still holds forth. Walter B. Hedlund, the pres- ent competent bookkeqjer assumed the responsibilities of that position in June, T902. In May, 1902, W. E. Carnahan, the talented son of the late A. A. Carnahan, was elected teller. Since May, 1889, there has been no changes in the offices of president, vioe-iiresident and cashier from the time of their promotion to the present date (November, 1902.) The bank building was enlarged in 1900 and is one of the handsomest and most substantial structures in the city of Concordia, and a lasting mon- ument to the prosperity and popularity of this institution. The building is of stone, two stories in height, extends back to the alley and represents some of the best architecture and masonrj'- in this part of the state. Before f stone had been placed the prospective extension was leased by the govern- ment for po?toffice quarters. The building is well furnished and admirably equipped for ix>stal facilities. The second floor is arranged in office suites. The deposits of the First National Bank runs from $225,000 to $300,- 000; more than half this amount is from the farmer and stockman and this average has been maintained from the beginning. The total dividends paid to the stockholders have been $168,000. The total surplus is $75,000. The building contains improved fire-proof and burglar-proof vaults, which afford perfect security to the contents. This firm has never been in a more soinid or safer condition since enter- ing upon their prosperous career than they are today. Every bill is worth one hundred cents on the dollar. They ha^■e ne\er experienced the anxiety of a "run" or the resemblance of one: even during the panic when many banks were failing all around them. The deposits were decreased owing to the stringency of the money markets, Ijut were at all times abundantly able to pay any demands made upon them. THE CONCORDIA LIBRARY. The Concordia Library is another institution that Concordia is justly proud of. To Mrs. Caroline J. Dudley, Mrs. Josephine Truesdell Marshall, Mrs. Augusta Harrison Wilfong and the late Mrs. Ruth Pulsifer (mother I90 'HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of Park B. Pulsifer) the city owes the founding of this enterprise; they were not only the promoters of this worthy project but the prime movers in push- ing it to success. The first Hbrary quarters were in a room in the Young j\Ien's Chris- tian Association building, tendered gratuitously by that organization. The first financial fund was earned in a very unique manner, by Mrs. Dudley and Mrs. Wilfong as "Scissor Grinders." These ladies plied their vocation in a way that would have done credit to the "professionals" in our great cities. Trade was brisk and not only scissors were ground, but carving knives, jack knives, etc., until they had netted a considerable fund. They carried a grind- stone — their stock in trade; and while Mrs. Dudley turned the crank, Mrs. Wilfong held the instrument to be sharpened. This was during the Columbian Club movement, and after giving the required sum of one dollar each to that society the surplus was utilized in purchasing paint and a padlock for the library room and a felt for the table — the first money expaided in the cause. The library was opened on November i8, 1892, with the following officers installed. Mrs. Josephine T. Marshall, president; Mrs. Caroline T. Dudley, librarian; Mrs. Augusta Harrison Wilfong, ways and means committee; Mrs. Emma D. Cobb, sec- retary. After the plans were instituted, other ladies were active in their assist- ance and very materially aided in the building up of the library to its present standard. The original members, aside from those already mentioned, were: Mesdames A. P. Foster, Mattie M. Spalding, N. B. Brown, G. A. Beauchamp, Grace Ellis, Jenette Achilles, W. L. Day, W. L. McCarty, A. F. Colson, Dr. Anna Grigsby, Maggie M. Allendorfer, C. A. Betournay and Miss Hattie L. Smith. The above mentioned members have all been active workers in the interests of the library. Other later members and also zeal- ous workers are : Mesdames Rose Darlington, Jennette Miller, R.. Y. Hill, C. L. Browning, Estelle Neilson, Katherine McCue, Mabel Eastman, Kath- erine Craig and Miss Celia Stetson. Mrs. ^Marshall, Mrs. Wilfong and Mrs. Dudley each served as president of the association two years. Mrs. Darlington was elected in 1902. Mrs. Dudley served as librarian four years and when she was honored by the presidency was succeeded by Mrs. Wilfong, who acted in that capac- ity six years. Mrs. Allendorfer was then elected librarian, Mrs. Wilfong having resigned, and entered upon the duties of that ofifice November 4, 1902. Mrs. Emma D. Cobb, the first treasurer, was succeeded one year later by Mrs. Spalding, who has served the association faithfully and still con- tinues in that ofifice. The following members have in turn acted as secretary for a period of one year each: Miss Anna Schaffer, Mrs. M. P. Foster, Miss Hattie Smith and Mrs. Grace Ellis. Mrs. Katherine- Craig served four years and Mrs. Maggie Allendorfer two years. The present secretary, Mrs. Rose Hill, assumed the duties of that ofifice November 4, 1902. ■ ■ HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 191 The first library room was carpeted by Mrs. Cobb and a settee conttib- uted by the late Mrs. Homer Kennett. Through a subscription circulated, fifty-six books were obtained as a starter and other volumes ha\-e been donated from time to time, and in a few instances money has been given. Park B. Pulsifer has contributed annually a Christmas present of ten dollars in memory of his late mother's appreciative- interest in the library. George Alexander also gives ten dollars as a memorial to Mrs. Pulsifer. Mrs. Rose Darlington donated five dollars and Colonel N. B. Brown tenders one dollar at each annual reception. In 1894 the present rooms occupied by the Concordia Library were handsomely fitted up and, on June 5 of the same year the association held its first meeting in their new rooms. Through the magnanimity of Colonel N. B. Brown these rooms have been given rent free. This generosity and public spirit upon the part of Colonel Brown is commendable and deserving of recognition. Mrs. Brown has also wielded her influence in a manner that calls forth praise and commendation. The inscription, "The Concordia Library," is affixed to all books and documents pertaining to the association. A charter was granted and the following rule instituted : All persons paying their dues of one dollar annually and signing the constitution shall be entitled to the privileges of the association. The promoters and active members of the library have labored hard for its success. To speak of them individually would require far too much space, but to the promoters who have Avorked with much zeal in the worthy cause that has given infinite delight to an extensi^-e coterie of readers and regular patrons must especially be mentioned the names of Mrs. Dudley, Mrs. Marshall, Mrs. Wilfong and Mrs. Ruth Pulsifer. Mrs. Marshall con- tributed much by throwing open to the association her pleasant home as a meeting place for the various entertainments held as beneficiaries to the library. The editors of the city papers have been generous in printing lists of books contained on the shelves of the library and in advertising the enter- tainments given each season, and the public expressed an interest by giving their patronage to the bazaars held from time to time. The association has in its treasury a fund of six hundred and twenty- five dollars and they expect to erect a suitable building in the near future. Many of the library's active workers have removed from Concordia, but the aid they lent towards an ideal mission is chronicled in the fruits of their efforts. There are now nineteen hundred volumes in the collection of books and the lover of literature needs no greater incentive than contact with attractive works of history or fiction such as surround him on all sides of this well equipped library, as it contains the best books and current literature. The founding of the Concordia Library has been a power for good and will be a lasting monument for all time to come. The association was oi^gan- ized with the idea of awakening the city to the strenuous needs of a public 192 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. library, and as soon as the citizens of Concordia can ]x brought to realize its value it will be instituted a public library. CHURCHES OF CONCORDIA. Referring to the churches of Coiy:ordia collectively it must be said, seldom in a city of its inhabitants is the religious and moral atmosphere more apparent. Nearly every denomination and sect are represented and their places of worship are dignified and graceful edifices. The ministers who labor in the interests of divine teaching are men of learning and char- acter eminently worthy to occupy any pulpit. They are eloquent in expound- ing the teaching of the gospel, zealous and exemplary in their lives. Concordia is the residence of the Catholic bishop of the see of Con- cordia. They have imder course of completion a magnificent cathedral, also a con\'ent which is one of the largest and most elaborate within the state of Kansas. There is a commendable feature worthy of notice regarding the people of Concordia; although all sects are represented within its bounda- ries, they have no religious disputes, but recognize each otlier as Christians. If the Catholics need assistance they call upon the general public for aid, and the other denominations do likewise. To a very great extent this condition has been brought about by the conservatism of those who have administered to the congregations, " but more particularly to the great ability and broad humanitarianism of Re\'. Joseph Perrier, the vicar general. Another reverend gentleman \\ho has done much for the upbuilding of Cloud county, in a broad sense, is Father Mollier, of St. Joseph, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. Generally speaking, the various congregations throughout the city are composed of the reputable of all classes and more moral or better citizens do not exist in any community. THE SWEDISH BAPTIST CHURCH OF CONCORDIA. In the years of 1869-70 there emigrated to this part of Kansas from Sweden a colony of Swedish people, mostly from the Isle of Gottland, who settled on the Republican ri\-er in the vicinity of Concordia, took homesteads which they improved and by their industry and thrift have built comfortable homes and many of them haAC acquired wealth. This settlanent was called Gottland, in honor of their native countrj'-. Here they built a school house and established a church organization, holding services in the school build- ing, where they continue to hold services occasionally and prayer meetings regularly. Some of these pioneers were Baptists when they came, but most of them were poor and did no missionary work imtil the Rev. August John- son, of Chicago, came of his own accord and began the work among them in 1877. That year he organized a church of nine members and was electee' moderator or pastor. Re\-erend Johnson has gi\en mt^st of his time in doing general mis- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 193 sionary work; has iDeen and is now connected more or less with Swedish Baptist churches throughout the state. For many years he made his home in Concordia, but now resides with his daugiiter, Mrs. Martin, of Peabody, Kansas. He is an influential man, a born leader and widely known. In 1878 the congregation of the Swedish Baptist church erected a house of worship in Concordia, which was purchased in 1900 by the denomination of Christians. In 1900 they built a church, a stone edifice which, in point of architecture, is one of the most substantial buildings of its kind in tlie city. The grounds include a parsonage and nine twenty-two' foot lots. The church is fifty by twenty-two feet. The capacity of the audience room is about two hundred people. Under the building is a basement for the accom- modation of societies, suppers, etc. The baptistry is just back of the pulpit and is accessible by the iq>ward sliding' of a large arch-shaped door. This property cost eight thousand dollars, all of which has been paid for, a dis- tinction which they very much enjoy. The following pastors have been in charge: Reverend Augxist John-_ son, Reverend J. P. Dokiuist, Reverend N. F. Person, Reverend A. B. Anderson, Re^^erend A. J. Benson, Reverend John Peterson, Reverend John Johnson, Reverefld John Bjork, Reverend C. A. Roberg, Reverend J. A. Hug-gerth. The latter is the present pastor and has occupied the pulpit for the last three j^ears. The total membership of all the years is one hundred and seventy-three. Many \ave removed from the city and state aiid some have passed into the unknown. The present congregation consists of fifty- two members, principally living in the country districts adjacent to Con- cordia, A partial record of the total amoimt of money raised for church and missionary work show an expenditure of twenty-two hundred dollars. The mem1>ei-s of this congregation are a unit and dwell in peaceful harmony. THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF CONCORDIA. On the first Sabbath of December, 1870, Reverend M. P Jones, then a member of the Pennsylvania Central presbytery, preached in the land office at Coftcordia. Mr. Jones was laboring at that time in Clyde, but the brighter prospects opening before Concordia led him, like many others, to select this as his place of residence. Soon after preaching his first sermon he moved' to Concordia, where he continued his labors until Decemlier, 1874. Public religious services ^\'ere held at \'arious places for a time with no very great certainty of long continuance. The land office. May & Burns' office, the- "new" hotel and Wetherell's shoe shop were all occupied for a time. On tire 4th of June, 1871, the Presbyterian church was organized in the old coi»rt house, with eighteen members ; but one of these remain, Mrs. Anna Bethel. Albert Strain, a son of Judge Strain, their first ruling elder. 194 HISTORY OF CLOUD COL-NTY, KANSAS. was a mere boy when unifing with the church, and is now a missionary of Ecuador, South .America. All of the others have either removed to other places or passed into- the great unknown. Soon after the organization the congregation hired a hall which stood where the First National Bank now stands. From this locality they moved to Sturges' hall, which was then located a little further east. In December, 1872, both of these buildings were burned and the congregation moved to Carnahan's hall on Sixth and Broadway. The present church building on Seventh n street, west of ^Vashington, Avas erected in 1874-5, being only church edifice which the congregation has used. Reverend Benjamin F. Haviland supplied the church from June, 1876, to June, 1878, a period of two years. Reverend Samuel F. Farmer was the next 'i4 minister and continued his labors from the autumn of 1878 until April, 1881. During both of these pastorates a considerable num- ber was added to the church. January ti, 1882, Reverend, H. Bush- nell, Jr., was installed as pastor of the church by a committee of Solomon presbytery. Judg'e Strain served in the capacity of ruling elder from its organization until bis death, January 25, 1 880. Messrs. James Wood- ward, H. E. Smith and J. F. Rogers, all of whom have removed to other places, also filled the office for longer or shorter periods of time. The session, as now constituted, consists of the pastor, Reverend Bush- nell, with the following elders, viz: Thomas A. Sawhill, John A. Tyner, W \\'alter Bowman, Dr. A\"illiam F. Sawhill, John H. Morrison, James Clithero, Oscar Park and George A. McEckron. The church building is a ha.ndsome stone edifice, well located in a part of the city devoted mainly to residences, and is not only an ornament to the city but admirably adapted to the purpose for which it was built. The church has a seating capacity, of two hundred and fifty and a membership of one hundred and seventy-three. In 1883 the debt of four thousand dollars was paid by a hard struggle. The tower was completed, a bell placed at a cost of four hundred and ten dollars, and various other repairs and improvements were made at a cost of eleven hundred and sixty- six dollars in 1893. The church is practically out of debt. During 1899 the seating was changed and electric lights put in at a cost of five hundred and ten dollars., A subscription of four hundred dollars was taken up and every dollar was paid at the close of the year, not a subscriber failing nor one scaled the price. The First Presbyterian Church. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 195 The church has contributed annuahy about four .hundred dohars for benevolences, not for themselves, 'but for work elsewhere. They have a Sab- bath school of one hundred and fifty members and regular attendants. W. Walter Bowman is the efficient superintendent. A young people's society of Christian Endeavor meets every Sunday night, with about forty mem- bers; F. J. Atwood is president. Societies all meet in the basement. The pastor's study is also located there. THE UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH IN CHRIST. There has been no complete record kept of this church, but after careful research the following has been obtained ; For several years prior to 1886 the denomination known as the "United Brethren" had a number of classes in the western part of the county, which constituted the Cloud county circuit, and within the Northwest Kansas con- ference. Reverend O. Beistle. served the country charge several years and during the latter part of his serviees there was an opportunity to Ijegin a church work in Concordia, whereupon he organized a class of fourteen members on Way 9, 1886. T. E. Thachery was elected first leader and J. H. Bogue, steward. The -annual conference convened at Harlem, Smith county, Kansas, October 14 to 18, 1886. During- this meeting the Concordia and Sibley classes were coVistituted Concordia circuit, and Reverend Jospeh Bays, then a young and single man from Indiana, was appointed minister in charge and served two years, during which tim.e he was married to Miss Nora Smith. Services were first held in the Swedish Baptist church, but a few months later and at the beginning of Reverend Bays' pastorate, the Grand Army of the Republic hall was secured for worship, and the work prospered. Preparations were made for the erection of a church, a location was secured in block ninety-four, lot six, and a small frame house was erected during the fall and winter of 1887-8, which furnished a comfortable meeting place for the small society which now numbered about sixty members. The location of the church proved to be an inconvenient one, remote from the center of population and after much consultation and planning it was decided to secure a new location nearer the business part of town and rebuild. A location was secured on the southwest corner of Eighth street and Lincoln avenue, consisting of lot nunil>er one and the east one-half of lot two of block one hundred and fourteen, of the First National Bank of Concordia for a consideration of three liundred dollars, and a larger and much better building was erected on the new site, and so nearly completed as to admit of conference being held there in October, 1892. The house was dedicated to the worship of God by Bishop W. Castle, D. D., in Feb- ruary,, 1893. The buildings, lots and furniture are valued at about twenty- six hundred dollars. Reverend Joseph Bays served two years, was reappointed to thisi work 196 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. for the third year, but was cut clo«n by the "grim reaper" in 1901, and after his death the work was put in charge of Dr. Williams, who received a tem- porary appointment. Reverend Bays was a man greatly beloved by his con- gregation and did much for the upbuilding of his church. The United Brethren have a Sunday school in flovirishing condition, under the superintendency of J. T. Rogers, who has filled this position for a term of ten consecutive years, with tlie exception of one year. The attend- ance is large, numbering about two hundred. The church is a comfortable, well finished building with a seating capacity of three hundred, and is prac- tically free of debt. In 1899 they built a parsonage on the lots adjacent to the church ground — -a six-room cottage. The present steward is C. T, Wilson, who has served several years. C. U. McKee is presiding elder, and Harry Key, class leader. Bishops, K. Castle, Q. S. Mills, E. B. Kephardt and I. W. Holt; ministers, Reverends O. Beistle, Joseph Bays, W. W. Carper, W. I. Murphy, T. J. Richie, M. Jennings and C. U. McKee. Reverend Joseph Bays was again appointed, making this his first and last work. The Woman's Missionary Society and Children's Band 'of Willing Workers are in a healthy and vigorous condition and are doing excellent work. ORIGIN OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF CONCORDIA. February 26, 1877, J. F. Rairden, a pioneer Baptist missionary of the Republican Valley association, called a meeting, which was held in Carna- han's hall, and perfected an organization of twenty-four members. The following year an effort was made to form a partnership with the Swedish Baptist church,, but failed ; the latter, hoM'ever, succeeded in building a church and the congregation of the First Baptist church worshipped there until 1887. In the early part of 1880 ground was broken on the location of the present house of worship, a kiln of brick was- bought for three hundred dol- lars, stone for the basement was donated, and so great was the amount of labor and material given that a church worth five thousand dollars was built for three thousand seventy-nine dollars and twenty cents. Of this sum five hundred dollars was donated by the American Baptist Home Mission society, the remaineler was subscribed at dedication in October, 1881. How- ever, of those who had subscribed on the day of dedication, some, through failure of crops and general stringency in financial matters, were unable to pay; others removed without paying, until August i, 1882, the church stood face to face with a debt of twelve hundred dollars. Under the leadership of Elder Nash four hundred dollars of this was paid. The friends of the enterprise now felt that they had reached the extent of their ability and hope gave place to doubt and dispair. Elder Nash's resigiiation followed and matters were left in this unsettled condi' HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 197 tion until September, 1883, ■\\'hen Elder Wood took charge of the work. December 3, 1883, the remaining indebtedness was paid and the mortgage released. The Baptist denomination have a handsome edifice, one of the best in the city. It is built of brick, with a basement. The auditorium is hand- somely furnished and finished. The windows are of beautiful stained glass. Above the entrance are cut out of magnesia limestone the following inscrip- tion : First Baptist church, 1880. Elder Wood was followed by Reverend B. P. Russell. The pastorates of Elders Wood and Russell were characterized by no great ingathering, but in seed sowing; they prepared for the period of harvest by which the pastorate of Elder Simmons was distinguished. The following pastors have been in charge: Reverends J. F. Rairden, C. H. Nash, M. Wood, B. P. Russell, W. A. Simmons, W. J. McCollom, C. B. P. Fox, J. R. Rairden, B. B. Brink, C. S.Taylor, Charles McMann. A. Frank Houser of Carthage, Illinois, was assigned and took charge October i, 1901. This circuit comprises the Republican Valley Baptist Association and embraces . the following towns : Belleville, Clay Center, Clifton, Clyde, Concordia, Highland, Junction City, ' Kackley, Morganville, Republic City, Riverdale, Uniondale and Vinton. While there has been no great demonstration in the church work of this denomination, there has been a steady and healthy growth. During the boom in the early 'nineties they had a membership of over two hundred, but many removed, some deceased, and a church was organized in the coun- try by J. R. Rairden, which took many members from the Concordia church, leaving the present membership one hundred and three. A Sabbath school has been in existence for twenty-four years, with an average attendance of about eighty-two. Judge C. P. Smith is the pres- ent superintendent. Prior tO' him, the late E. L. Ackley served four years. jMr. McMann served this charge three years, during which time there was no great demonstration, but good seed had been sown. As a successful min- ister and Bible instructor, he had few superiors in this part of the country. His sermons were instructive and edifying. Fie was a good counselor and safe leader. The church was also fortunate in securing a man of so much experi- ence, rare ability, so deep a thinker and powerful speaker as Reverend Frank Houser. The following auxiliaries are in good condition : The Ladies' Aid Society, the Woman's Home Mission and Foreign Society and a Junior Baptist Young People's Union. FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF CONCORDIA. A society was organized through the efforts of Reverend R. A. Schull, and a small number of co-workers in 1900, with a membership of sixteen, 13 198 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. First Christian Church. In the autumn of the same year Reverend J. H. Fuller was assigned the charge as pastor, the congregation worshiping in a vacant hall until in November of that year, when they purchased the Swedish Baptist church on the corner of Washington and State streets, a neat frame building with a seating capacity of about two hundred. They remodeled and refitted this house, making it a comfortable and desirable place of worship. At the expiration of eight months Rever- end Fuller resigned the pastorate and Rever- end J- L- Thompson was called to fill the vacancy and is the present residing pastor, dividing his time between the Concordia and Courtland churches. Reverend Thompson is a young man in years and in ministerial labors, but an earnest worker and logical speaker. At the beginning of the Christian church organization a Sabbath school was estab- lished with E. V. King as superintendent, and although small in numbers much interest is manifested. This little church has had a struggle. They began an existence with six- teen members and \\-ithin a few months one dozen of their most active labor- ers transferred their residences to other quarters. JNluch credit is due Professor Barings, of the Commercial College, and Miss Bertha Marlatt, county superintendent, for their zealous labors in helping to keep alive, as it were, the organization. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHUPXII OF CONCORDIA. The author is able to trace the records of the [Methodist Episcopal church of Con- cordia back to 1874. At that date the Rever- end James Lawrence was presiding elder and F. B. Gray, pastor. The charge was a cir- cuit composed of Concordia, Pleasant Hill, Enterprise and Wolf Creek. The pastor re- ceived for his first quarter sixteen dollars. The congregation now pay their minis- ter three hundred dollars per quarter, includ- ing a comfortable parsonage. The trustees of the church are J. H. Cline, M. D. Scott, C. E, Sweet, Charles D. Avery and Willis Fish. Fully one-half of the membership was acquired during Reverend Amherst's pastor- ate, a net increase of one hundred members. The church is an imposing frame struc- ture, one of the first edifices for worship erected in Conocordia. It is situated on the pj^sx methowst Episcopal Church. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 199 corner of Seventh and Broadway. The seating capacity is about five hun- dred. Concordia is the head of the Methodist Episcopal district and resi- dence of the presiding elder. Following Reverend Gray as pastor are Reverends L. A. Tallraan, J. C. Dana, G. W. Wood, A. N. See, -A. E. Tuttle, J. A. Bull, F. D. Baker, B. F. Stauber, H. M. Mayo, M. M. Stoltz, E. W. Allen, E. M. Evans, H. C. Amherst and Reverend Cannon.. Presiding elders: James Lavi^rence, W. J. Mitchell, J. H. Lockwood, C. L. Shackelford, E. P. Michener, F. D. Baker, F. J. Taggart. THE FIRST FREE METHODIST CH CRCH OF CONCORDIA. The congregation of the First Free Methodist church of Concordia was established in 1895 by Reverend J. Adams, with a membership of six. A modest temple of worship was erected in 1899 ^.nd dedicated in Februai-y of 1900. The dedicatory sermon was deli\^ered by Reverend W. G. Hamner. The church is a frame building, one story in height, located on the corner of Fifth and Kansas avenue. The growth of the organization has not been great, the present mem- bership being but fifteen. Though small in numbers they are a faithful and devoted little band. Since 1895 the following ministers, have been in charge: Reverends F. Chapman, J. E. Crawford, C. W. Long, J. H. Bacheldier and A. Helsel. The latter was compelled to retire on account of ill health arid Mrs. Hill, of Cawker City, conducts services every alternate Sunday. They have a Sunday school with an average attendance of twenty pupils. Mrs. Swartz is superintendent and Miss Gertie Thomas, assistant. CHURCH OF CHRIST. The congregation of the Church of Christ at Concordia was first org'an- ized in 1875 with E. R. Jones as elder and F. M. Empson as deacon. The members at this time were meeting eight miles southeast of the city, \A-here they continued to assemble for about fourteen years, when they mo^'ed to Concordia, assembling in various places, sometimes in private residences, until the early part of 1900, when their faith, zeal and energy prompted them to erect a neat, comfortable and pleasant place of worship on East Eighth street, where they mig"ht, as it were, "sit under their own vine and fig tree." The congregation at the present time is composed of thirty members with E. R. Jones and A. R. Moore serving in the capacity of elders, John Townsdin and William Jones deacons. The congregation meets each Lord's d.Ty to study the scriptures and observe the communion. The gospel is frequently preached that the world may have an opportunity to hear and eals to the appetite of the customer. The firm is composed of J. M. Harrison, William Harrison (a son) and Walter Nelson, all of whom are exceptionally well qualified to cater to the needs of the inner man, by furnishing all the delicacies of the seasons — staple and fancy. The senior member, J. M. Harrison, has been a resident of Cloud county since 1880, when he bought unimjjroved land four miles south of Concordia, paying eight hundred dollars for it. He sold this land, which he had improved, six years later and opened a general merchandise store in the little town of Rice, and was also postmaster there. Mr. Harrison was very successful, having made two farms from the proceeds of his business. He sold the Rice store, came into Concordia and in the year 1900 engaged in their present business, which was formerly the McCrary stock of gro- ceries. They removed the store to their present stand in the Iron block. 270 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Their investment of seven hundred doHars each was wisely expended; their annual sales, now reaching forty thousand dollars, often taking in from four to five hundred dollars in one day. The members of the firm ha\'e each drawn out two thousand dollars. The room they occupy is twenty-six and one-half feet in the clear by one hundred feet and is filled to the ceiling with everything imaginable that is good to eat, and the most epicurean appetite could be satisfied here. They employ four men steadily, with a larger force on busy days. J. M. Harrison is a native of the Hoosier state, born in 1849. Con- cerning Mr. Harrison's war record there is a bit of interesting history which gives expression to the patriotism he evinced in early life. He was ambi- tious and sought for admission into the service of L'ncle Sam twice ere he was acccepted, erity of Concordia, both by industry and public spirit. He was a member of the council for one year under the reign of Mayor Messall and also for the same length of time during Mayor Stewart's term of office. He was an acti\'e member of the board of education for two years. Socially he is iden- tified with the National Association of Master Plumbers and also with the State Association. He has been through all the chairs of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and the Benevolent Order of Elks. He is a member of the Woodmen, and of the Knights and Ladies of Security. WASHINGTON GEORGE CARTNEY. The subject of this sketch, W. G. Cartney, came to Concordia when the city was in its infancy. When it was a town of tents and slianties, Mr. Cartney pinned his faith unflinchingly to the future metropolis and as a result of this quality of stick-to-it-iveness he is in a prosperous condition financially and one of the leading business men of Concordia. He was a single man and had not yet attained his majority when he took Horace Greeley's advice, "Go west, young man, and grow up with the country." When he landed in the new town in March, 1871, it could easily be imagined Mr. Cartney was a very similar type at that period as is found in his son Walter of today. * Mr. Cartney had learned the carpenter trade before coming west, but accepted a position in the pioneer meat market of Bean & King and by so doing laid the foundation, of a successful career. Mr. Cartney killed the sec- ond beef that supplied the trade of Concordia with meat. This historical event took place on the Sheafor claim, which is situated on Plum creek, and is now known as the Beauchamp farm, but owned by H. A. Swift. Mr. King killed the first beef. In the latter part of the 'eighties Mr. Cartney and J. C. Paradis formed a partnership, which continued to exist for about twelve years. One year after they had mutually dissolved interests Mr. Cartney purchased the market and still continues to conduct the same. To his enterprise and fitnes's for the business the people are indebted for excel- lent services, as his refrigerators are always filled with the choicest of meats, that only an experienced caterer could furnish. Mr. Cartney is a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1852, but when a small boy removed with his parents to Ohio, where he grew to manhood, or until emigrating to Kansas. The origin of the Cartney name is Scotch. Our subject's grandfather was the emigrant to this country; he settled near Philadelphia and married into a Pennsylvania Dutch family. Pierce Cartney, the father of W. G. Cartney, was a member of Com- pany E, Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, and gave his life for his country, not in battle, but from a fate that entailed untold suffering; he died in the Dan- ville prison as a result of privation. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 275 Mr. Cartiiey was married in 1874 to Miss Abbie E. Mallory, who came to Kansas from New York, her native state. Their family consists of two children, Walter and Etta. Their son is now with his father in the mar- ket, but was previously engaged as traveling salesman for the S. S. Beef Company, of Kansas City. He was with this firm one and one-half years. The daughter is accomplished in music and elocution. In fraternal relations Mr. Cartney has been a member of the Odd Fel- lows for a score of years, and is identified with the Woodmen of America, Pyramids, Sons and Daughters of Justice and of U. C. T. Mr. Cartney is a genial man, reliable, honorable and public spirited; he is one of Concordia's most honored citizens and has a host of personal friends. HONORABLE F. W. STURGES. The author believes it is voicing the sentiment of the people to say not a man in Cloud county commands the confidence and regard of the people in a greater measure, nor is there one who, when selected by their ballots, has done more to merit the preferment tendered than Judge Sturges. He is a plain, straightforward, honest man of unquestioned integrity, a forceful and eloquent speaker and stands pre-eminent among the attorneys of Cloud county. In politics he is a broadminded Republican. As judge of the Twelfth judicial district, elected in 1888, he ser-ved an eventful career of twelve years and was universally admitted to be one of the most impartial and unprejudiced judges Cloud county has ever had. He was a partner with Judge Strain, one of Concordia's most prom- inent and esteemed citizens, in the practice of law until the death of that able jurist in January, 1880. The combination was a strong one and two more philanthropic, generous, honorable and capable men were never associated together in the city of Concordia. Judge Sturges is a native of Connecti- cut. He early drifted westward and in 1871 located in Concordia, where he has since been prominent jn every worthy enterprise. In 1883 he was chosen to the legislature of Kansas and served one term. JAMES CLITHERO. One of the pioneers of 1867 is James Clithero, now an esteemed citizen of Concordia. He settled in Elk township and homesteaded land adjoinmg the site of the present town of Ames. He remained through the Indian uprisings and vras among the settlers concentrated at the claim of A. A. Bradford, where they joined their forces to protect each other, and while inmates of the little fort slept within, some one of the settlers was detailed to stand guard on the outside. "Jerry" was a colored man, whom Mr. Brad- ford had with him all through the war, and who followed his master on to the frontier. "Jerry" was a character true to his race and Mr. Clithero relates an incident of the darkey's valor. 2 76 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. He was selected from among the number to stand guard one night, and as he marched up and down the hne with vigilant eye, ready to give the sig- nal of alarm by firing his gun, the settlers, their wives and children peace- fully slumbered on. "Jerry" had performed his duty faithfully, but when morning dawned it was discovered the gun with which he had paraded all during the long hours of the night was unloaded, not a trace of ammunition in the formidable weapon that had served "Terry," who was unconscious of the situation, just as well, inasmuch as the Indians did not appear. Mr. Clithero is a native of Lancashire, England, bom in 1841. When a small boy he came with his parents to America and settled in Wisconsin, where his father had secured land ten years earlier and when that countiy was thinly settled. His parents both died in Wisconsin. In 1866 Mr. Clithero was married to Miss Nannie McEckron, a sister of the Honorable B. H. McEckron. Their family consists of three sons, all of whom are married and prosperous inen. Mr. and Mrs. Clithero lost two daughters, aged thirteen and nineteen. Mr. Clithero is . practically retired from business, but has been engaged in general merchandising in Concordia until recently. One of the sons is a member of the firm of Boyd & Clithei^o, grocers, of Concordia. G. G. Clithero is in the railway postal service and runs between Colorado Springs and Kansas City. A. B., the youngest son, is a farmer near Rice, Cloud countjr. Mr. Clithero is an old veteran of the Civil war and enjoys the distinc- tion O'f having served almost four years, or all through the war. He enlisted in Company C, Fifty-seventh Illinois Volunteer Infantry, Septem- ber 21, 1 861, for three years; and when the term expired, re-enlisted for one year. He received a gunshot wound on Sunday, the first day's battle at Shiloh, which disabled him for six months ere he could shoulder arms again. His company was under Colonel S. D. Baldwin and Captain W. S. Swan, both of Chicago. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and actively inter- ested "in the association. Mr. Clithero was identified with Clyde for many years, as his homestead was near that city, and was prominent in the organ- ization of the Presbyterian church -there, which, after several years of strug- gle, is a monument of pride to its originators, and contains the only pipe organ in the county. Mr. Clithero and Mr. McEckron hauled logs to be sawed for the construction of the church. Mr. Clithero has been a citizen of Concordia thirteen years, where he and his family enjoy a comfortable home. THE GERMAN & LEWIS FURNISHING GOODS COMPANY. The managers of this recently established up-to-date place of business are Roswold German and W. F. Lewis. A finer combination than the above named gentlemen would be difficult to substitute. Botli obliging, attentive HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 279 to business and thoroughly competent, they are assured of success. They have each had practical experience in the lines they carry and will undoubt- edly remain leaders in men's furnishings. The elegance of the appoint- ments and the newness of everything gives the impression that the contents of the beautiful show cases of old English and plate glass have just come from the hands of the artist who designed and executed them. The whole interior of this "temple of fashion" is elegantly finished in white enamel and gold immaculate in its neatness and replete with everything that is required for the well-dressed man — for shoddy, inferior or shelf-worn goods are not allowed a place on the shelves of their store, and are justly entitled to the reputation they are rapidly gaining as being authority on the latest fads and fashions of men's hats, shirts and neckwear. Their modern wall show cases and latest designed window fixtures are supei'ior to anything ever shown in Concordia. Their place of business is made very attractive at night by rows of incandescait lights that extend the whole length of their walls. This headquarters for men who appreciate reliable, correct attire was opened to patronage February i, 1903. Their general stock is supplemented by a suitatorium that is open for operation both day and night. German & Lewis do a thriving business in this line. To the traveling public this is an admirable feature, for they can send their clothes to be renovated and have them delivered with their call in the morning, or in suitatorium parlance, "Clothes pressed while you sleep." This firm are special agents for the Ilawes celebrated three-dollar hats. They are also furnishing the suits for the ball players of the Great Western Business College, who play under the name of German & Lewis, as designated by wearing the name of the firm on their shirt fronts. The suits are of the same color and texture as the league uniform. Roswold German, the saiior manager of the business, was a commer- cial traveler for several years and carried the same line he is now interested in. He is also a tailor by trade and worked in Kansas City for a consider- able length of time, hence ha understands what constitutes a well-dressed man. Mr. German has had a wide experience for a man of his age, for he is scarcely thirty in appearance; he has, traveled over many European coun- tries, including France, Italy, Russia and others. Mr. German and his wife are both old residents of Kansas City, where they grew up together from playmates. They are the parents of a bright little boy, who appears in the illustration on the opposite page is demonstrating the correct thing in hats and shirts. Will F. Lewis, the junior member, was a tourist in the commercial world, his special line. being hats, and he, too, was a tailor and was engaged in that occupation several years, hence a fine judge of material. Mrs. Lewis was Miss Marceline Martin, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Martin, of the Barons House. Their interesting little son, though scarcely eight months of age, attired in a pair of overalls, occupies an 280 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. important place in the engraving on the opposite page, seemingly saying, "Tall trees from little acorns grow." Stranger things have occurred than that these two "young Americas" should succeed their fathers, or at least hecome partners in the enterprise. OSCAR R. TAGGART. Among the honored pioneers and citizens of Cloud county is Oscar R. Taggart, who came overland to Kansas in 1867, and in company with the late Judge Carnahan and William H. Anderson, "bached" near Lake Sibley, where Mr. Taggart bought a settler's relinquishment and homestead land in Sibley township. His farm being near the embryo town of Sibley, Mr. Taggart worked hard to secure for it the county seat, but after failing, he transferred his interests to Concordia, expecting to make his home there instead. Mr. Taggart was a member of the state militia, organized for the pro- tection of settlers, and participated in several skinnishes with the Indians. He was one of the guards on duty when the Adkins boy was killed. They had scoured the surrounding country and were just returning to camp when the firing was heard. After the Indian uprisings were quelled Mr. Taggart settled down on his farm. For two or three years the expenses were greater than the profits, as the markets were so far distant transportation tO' and fro consumed the income. He still retains the old homestead, which is one of the many fine farms in Sibley township, with good buildings, orchards, etc. He owns a forty- acre tract in section 30, one-half mile northwest of Concordia, on the Repub lican river. This is wooded land and Mr. Taggart expects to clear the ground, and believing that it is well adapted to horticulture, will transform it into a fruit farm. In 1898 Mr. Taggart bought five acres of ground in the Hagaman addition, erected a comfortable cottage on the corner of Cedar street and Greeley avenue in 1901 and expects to make Concordia his per- manent home. Mr. Taggart has traveled over various parts of the United States; journeyed overland through Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and California, spending eighteen months in his sightseeing expedition, and, while he was pleased with the scenes and possibilities of those states, he was quite content to continue in Kansas, saying, "this is good enough for me." Mr. Taggart is a native of Naples, New York, born in April, 1849. He is a son of James and Mary J. (Harris) Taggart, both of New England origin. His father followed various pursuits, such as hotel keeping, saw milling and farming. Prior to their residence in Cloud county, the Taggarts lived in Michigan ten years. The father came to Kansas one year later than his son and lived in the vicinity of Concordia until his death in 1896. The mother lived in the home of her son until her death in 1900. Our subject received his early education in the common schools of Michigan, followed by a three-years' literary course in Colon Seminary, St. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 281 Joseph county, Michigan. At the age of nineteen he began farming and later engaged in the grain business. Mr. Taggart was married January i, 1870, to Emma ColHns, a daugh- ter of WilHam CoHins, who settled in Cloud county in 1866, and a sister of William and John Collins, who were massacred, along with the Cassel party, as related in the account of Indian raids. Mrs. Taggart's father was of English birth. Her mother's paternal grandfather was born in Ireland; her maternal ancestors were English. She was a native of Maine, and while visiting England met and married William Collins in the city of London. They emigrated to America and settled in Illinois, where they resided until coming to Kansas in 1866. To Mr. and Mrs. Taggart three children have been born, but one of whom is living, Mattie, the wife of Henry Neal, a farmer near Hunter, Oklahoma; they are the parents of three children, Mabel, Oscar and Fay. Willie, their only son, was deceased at the age of one year. Carrie, their youngest child, was deceased at the age of thirteen. Politically Mr. Taggart is a Democrat and socially is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Dramatic Order Knights of Khorasan and the Benevo- lent Order of Elks. E. C. WHITCHER. E. C. Whitcher, of the firm of Whipp & Whitcher, abstracters, deal- ers in real estate, and insurance, is a native of Warren, Grafton county, New Hampshire, born in i860. His father was Levi C. Whitcher, a New Englander, who was engaged in different occupations — lumberman, hard- ware dealer, and at the time of his death was farming. His mother was Sarah A. (Weeks) Whitcher, also of New England birth and ancestry. Mr. Whitcher was educated in the common schools of New Hampshire and when fifteen years of age, began his career as a clerk in a mercantile establishment. In 1883 he went to California, later returned and located in Omaha, Nebraska, where he railroaded for two years, and was also located at Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he filled the position of passenger officer in the Union depot. In 1886 he came to Washington county, Kansas, where he clerked for two years and then came to Concordia. Here he established himself in the mercantile business, largely groceries, which he conducted for about five years, then sold the same and became associated with Mr. Whipp in their present business. His venture in the mercantile line was during the panic years, when all alike suffered losses. The present combination is a very successful one. Mr. Whitcher bought the interest of D. M. Stackhouse. This firm had formulated a set of abstract books, the only complete set in the county, and were making a specialty of that line, having since added real estate and insurance. Mr. Whitcher enjoys the distinction of being the only Democrat at the 282 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. present time (1902) holding city office, in 1901 being appointed city clerk. He has been twice nominated for registrar of deeds but never made a can\-ass, from the fact that he was on the wrong side to be elected. Mr. Whitcher was married in 1888 to Lizzie Francouer, formerly of Illinois. She was practically reared in Cloud county, as she came here with her parents when an infant. Her father is Jospeh Francouer, a farmer of Lincoln township, near Concordia. They are of French extraction and natives of Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Whitcher are the parents of three daughters, Lillian, Flor- ence and Edith, aged, respectively, twelve, nine and four years. Mr. Whitcher owns a farm in Aurora township and retains his interest in his father's estate in New Hampshire; has a comfortable but modest home on Broadway and Thirteenth streets. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Modern Woodmen and Court of Honor. HONORABLE RICHARD PARRIOTT WEST. Reverend R. P. West, the subject of this sketch, is one of the most prominent of the pioneer settlers and figures very conspicuously through the pages of this volume. He was not in reality one of Cloud county's set- tlers, but was jointly connected with this and Republic county, where he resided. Vermilion county, Indiana, is the place of his nativity. He was born August 10, 1829. His father, Jacob J. West, was born in Greene- county, Pennsylvania. He was a carpenter by trade, but later turned his attention to agricultural pursuits. A chapter in Mr. West's grandfather's life bordered on the romantic. At the age of nine years he was kidnapped in Liverpool England, taken on board a vessel, brought to Philadelphia and disposed of to a Quaker for the consideration of twelve dollars. He lived with this family for a number of years and received uniform and kindly treatment. He used a gun on the British in the famous battle of Lexington, when but twelve years of age. After several times enlisting he finally entered for five years and served during the war. At the battle of Cowpens he received a severe saber wound on the head that disabled him the remainder of his life. When on a scout- ing expedition he suddenly came upon a squad of red coats and instantly rec- ognized one as his brother. He revealed to hini his relationship, but the brother refused to believe him until shown a mark well known to the brother, which no longer left a doubt in his mind as to his identity. They embraced each other, but the next moment the "Johnnie Bull" began upbraiding him for being a rebel. Jacob West died deaf and blind from the effect of the saber wound. He was a self-made man, and, although he had received but a common school education, by assiduous reading he became a compendium of history and famous for his extensive knowledge of current events. He settled in Illinois in 1837. He died in 1864. His wife died on the same day. HISTORY DF -CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 283 They laid aside the joys and burdens of hfe and togethef entered the mys- terious beyond. When troops were called upon to protect the stars and stripes and the honor of the nation, Reverend West was among the first to respond and joined the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Volunteer Infantry, June Ji, 1 86 1. Although not in any engagements he was constantly at the post of Mr. and Mrs. Richard P. West. duty and dangers until he fell ill and was forced to enter the hospital. Fail- ing to fully recover his health he was honorably discharged March 27, 1862. Reverend West was married October 22, 1848, in Piatt County, Illi- nois, to Miss Margaret -Murphy, who is a most estimable woman and mem- ber of a highly esteemed family. Not having been blessed with children of 284 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. their own Mr. and Mrs. West adopted little May Glovin, a bright child of eight summers, whom they reared and educated. At the age of twenty-one years she was married to William H. Vicker, a very worthy man. One child, Earl, was born to them, but scarcely three years of married life had elapsed ere the "grim reaper," death, had taken her home, preceded by her infant child two months. Reverend Vi'^est has always been active in politics, believing that all great reforms must be brought about through the intelligent use of the bal- lot. He is a staunch Republican, although he has not at all times approved of the action of his party's conventions, and believing that an honest Demo- crat is better than a dishonest Republican, he occasionally put that belief into practice. In 1869-70 and also in 1876 he was elected to the house of representa- ti-\'es of the state of Kansas, and at each session he distinguished himself in aiding the progression of important work. Among the many good bills he was jointly responsible for was one to refund his county's (Republic) indebtedness, whose finances were in such condition that its credit had sunk to twenty-five cents on the dollar. The passage of his bill immediately brought it up to par, where it has since remained. As an "objector" Mr. West was a terror to all who had "jobs" before the legislature, each and all of which he opposed with the vigor and ability he possessed. He is the man who unearthed an attempted eight thousand dollar bond steal of the late Colonel Samuel Wood, who was killed in Ste- phens county several yearee ago. During the discussion of the case Wood became so infuriated at the remarks of Representative West that he lost control of his vicious temper and violently hurled an ink bottle at Mr. West, who, fortunately, dodged the missile. ^ In the early 'eighties Reverend West's friends put him in the. field as an Independent Republican candidate for the state senate, the district being composed of Republic and Cloud counties, but he was defeat€d by the regu- lar Republican nominee, through the dishonest tactics of his opponent's friends and workers. He has been active in politics ever since and probably always will be until he is gathered to his "Father's home." In 1882 Reverend West moved to the then territory of Washington and engaged in farming, but his old love for Republic county, where he had spent nearly twenty years bravely overcoming the hardships of frontier life, and finally rewarded -with peace, pleasure and plenty, caused, him to return. He bought a home in Osborne county, and from there moved to Concordia, locating in the eastern part of the city on Fifth street, where himself and wife declare they will live the remainder of their lives in this pleasant home. Reverend and Mrs. West were pioneers of Republic county and settled on a homestead near where Bellville now stands, in 1863, when great herds of buffalo tramped over his farm, both springtime and autumn, and when the coyote and the Indian were too frequent visitors to make life safe and HISTORY OF CI-OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 285 enjoyable. Here this worthy couple kept "open house," where the weary and hungry traveler always found a welcome to rest and partake of their bounteous meals without charge. Reverend West was licensed to preach by the quarterly conference of Tuscola-Paris district of the Illinois conference and was ordained in Man- hattan, Kansas, in 1866. Immediately after coming to Kansas he began his life work of preaching the "everlasting gospel" in his own inimitable style and he was "the right man in the right place." He was always present to bury the dead, to cliase the marauding bands of Indians, or to hold pro- tracted meetings in every settlement from Manhattan, Riley county, to Jewell county on the west, and was eminently successful in bringing souls to Christ and organizing congregations, nearly always at his own expense. Reverend West withdrew from the conference on account of his wife's falling health, who, from the beginning of his ministerial labors had borne much of the burden of supporting the itinerant circuit rider's home. Beside dispensing free salvation. Reverend West probably contributed more of his worldly stores than many of his parishioners accumulated in the same length of time. Mrs. West was an important quantity, and while commending this fearless clergyman and politician the credit due his devoted companion must not be overlooked. She at all times shared in those days of grief and romance and while speaking of these attributes, Reverend West facetiously remarked, "To Margaret Ann be all the honor." This venerable and worthy couple have always enjoyed the confidence and esteem of their fellow citi- zens and when the parting adieus are said and life's jotxmey ended, their many good deeds will live on in the hearts of their neighbors and friends. — [Reverend R. P. West, the pioneer circuit rider of more than a quarter of a century ago departed this life at his home in Concordia on the nth of December, 1902. He traveled over the prairies on horseback before the days of roads and bridges, administering spiritual advice and comfort to the settlers of Cloud, Republic, Washington and Clay counties. Since his advent in the state in 1863, he was a prominent figure in church and politi- cal affairs as references in various parts of this work signify. His aged wife survives him. — Editor. ROBERT MISELL. Robert Misell, one of the successful business men of Concordia, is engaged in real estate and insurance and is one of the most reliable agents in the city. He is thoroughly posted on the property of Concordia and surrounding localities, which is essential to success in his line. His father, Thomas Misell, is of English birth, bom in 1819. He enlisted in Company B, Fourth West Virginia Volunteers, and served his adopted country for a period of three years. Thomas Misell came to the Solomon valley in March, 1868, and took up land near Glasco, on the Sol- omon river. He now resides at the home of his son, the subject of this 286 HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sketch. Robert jNIisell's mother was of Irish nativity. She died in 1863. Robert Misell was born in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, in 1858, and was but ten years of age when he came to Kansas. After several removals his parents settled in the Solomon valley in 1868, during the unsettled times. His brother was killed in the Indian raid of that year, an account of which is given elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Misell was reared on their western homestead and lived there until 1880. For three years he followed various pursuits and in 1883, located in Concordia and engaged in the loan, real estate and insurance business. He was married in 1890, to Emma Seavey, a daughter of Dr. John Seavey, a veterinary surgeon of. Concordia. To Mr. and Mrs. Misell one child was born, a little son, Robert L., aged five years. Mr. Misell has been prom- inently identified with the political affairs of Cloud county and affiliates with the Republican party. He is ranked among the most progressive men of Concordia and is a public spirited citizen. Socially he is a member of the Knights of Pythias and is exalted ruler of the Benevolent Order of Elks. GEORGE M. CULVER. George M. Culver, who is now serving his third term as county attor- ney of Cloud county, was born near Albany, New York, July 6, 1866. He is the third of seven sons. His parents were George W- and Margaret H. (Holton) Culver. His father was a native of the state of New York. He was a carpenter by trade, but emigrated to Republic county, Kansas, where he farmed until his demise in 1890. Mr. Culver's mother was born near Cork, Ireland. She died in 1890, being an interval of only three months between his parents' death. Mr. Culver received his early education in the country schools. His father's finances were limited and he could not give his son the educational advantages his ambitions craved, but his object was not relinquished until it became a reality, which has brought its well merited reward. About six months after Mr. Culver had begun the high school course his parents moved temporarily to Colorado, and he entered the Greeley Uni- versity, remaining three years, taking special work. This was in 1883, but in the meantime he taught school, beginning at the age of sixteen. He taught as a means of earning money to defra)' his expenses at the university. Beginning with 1888 he took a two years' literary course in the State Uni- versity at Lawrence, Kansas. From this period he filled the position of principal in several of the best schools of northwestern Kansas. He was principal of the Beloit schools for five years; he had charge of the Bellville Republic county, schools, and also of Cuba, in the same county. During this time he turned. his attention to the study of law and read with various attorneys until admitted to the bar. Mr. Culver's career is a good demon- stration of what a young man who has force of character can accomplish. Mr. Culver moved from Beloit to Concordia in June, 1896, and opened HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 287 a law office. He endeavored to form a partnership with several well estab- lished lawyers who enjoyed a lucrative practice, but our subject was young in years and young in profession, and according to their shrewd ideas,, not a desirable partner. To many sensitive, retiring natures their seeming lack of appreciation would have been a chilling blast, but to Mr. Culver it served as a stimulus. His clientage from the beginning was gratifying for a young man and stranger. It steadily increased and he gained the confidence and good will of the people imtil it found expression in his nomination for the office of county attorney of Cloud county. He was elected on the fusion ticket in 1878, was re-elected in 1900 and again in 1902. Mr. Culver was married in 1891 to Miss Mary J. Hair, a daughter of Dr. J. Hair, a retired physician now residing in Kansas City, Missouri. The Hairs are Ohio people, but after various removals located in Republic county, Kansas, where Dr. Hair lived several years. Mrs. Culver was born in Iowa. She is a graduate of the State Uni- versity and has been' a successful teacher. She was principal of the Repub- lic city schools and was a resident of that town at the time of her marriage with Mr. Culver. Mr. and Mrs. Culver are the parents of three bright, intelligent chil- dren, viz : Marguerite, Harold H. and George. HONORABLE EDWARD J. MESSALL. E. J. Messall has made a good record for himself as a public official. During tlie turbulent joint movements the mayor of a city does not have altogether smooth sailing. He is expected by many to do the whole thing, condemned by some if he does, and by another element if he doesn't. Mr. Messall is courteous, accommodating, intelligent, far seeing and strictly conscientious in the discharge of his official duties, and has not been a dis- appointment to the people of Concordia, who elected him. Mr. Messall is a native of Prussia, Germany, born in 1857. He is a son of Gotlieb and Karoline (Siegelhagel) IVIessall, of Prussia. His father died in 1855, on the farm in his native country, where he had spent his lifetime. His mother came to America in 1871, and settled in Marysville, Marshall county, Kansas, where she died in 1892. Mr. Messall is one of seven children, four sons and three daughters, all of whom are residents of this state, except one brother who lives in Wisconsin. Mr. Messall's brothers were in the Franco-Prussian war. In 1871 Mr. Messall and his youngest sister accompanied their mother to Kansas. He received his education in the high school of Prussia and the district schools of Marshall county, Kansas. He was employed on a farm until seventeen years of age and then entered a flouring mill. In the latter part of his service there he operated the elevator that was in connection with the mill, bought grain, etc. 288 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. In 1883 he established the Concordia BottHng Works, manufacturing all kinds of soft drinks, which has been an excellent source of re^'enue to him. He has a brisk trade in this line during the summer months, having a large wholesale trade. He ships goods to all parts of the state. He is also a wholesale dealer of cigars. In 1888-9 he was associated with Parker & Company in a cigar factory under the firm name of Messall, Parker & Co. He afterward assumed full control of the concern and did an exten- sive business. Mr. Messall was married in 1879 to Lena Stettnisch, a young German woman who came with her parents to America in 1866 and settled in Marshall coimty, Kansas. She is a daughter of Carl Stettnisch, a farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Messall four children have been born. Their only son, Louis, died at the age of fourteen years. Their three daughters, Bertha, Mollie and Bessie, are intelligent and talented young ladies. The eldest daughter, Bertha, after a course in the Concordia high school entered the Agricultural College of Manhattan, and in 1900 entered upon a business course in the Great Western Business College of Concordia. Until recent years Mr. Messall affiliated with the Democrats, but trans- ferred his convictions to the Republican party. He has been identified with the city's affairs almost continuously since his residence in Concordia, as a member of the school board and one of the city councilmen. In April, 1901, he was elected to his present office after a hard fight, by a majority of one hundred and ninety-four, the largest ever given a candidate for that office in Concordia. Mr. Messall owns a handsome residence property with a spacious lawn of five lots, on the corner of Washington and Seventh streets. His factory is in the rear of this property. The family are regular attend- ants and members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Messall is one of the trustees of the church. HONORABLE JOHN STEWART. John StCAvart, the wholesale produce man of northwestern Kansas, owes his substantial position in life to his untiring energy and perseverance. The progress connected with his business operations and their magnificent results evidences what a man with courage and enlightened views can accomplish. Mr. Stewart's experiences have been varied. He has not attained his pres- ent financial standing without great labor, excellent financiering and an indomitable will that would not recognize the word defeat. The word "fail" does not occur in his vocabulary of thought. He is a son of the "Auld Sod," born in the little village of Malin, County Donegal, November 8, 1861. His paraits were James and Mar- garet (Kalhoun) Stewart, both natives of Ireland, His father early in life learned the cai-penter trade, but later engaged in mercantile pursuits. Mr. Stewart's mother died in 1885. After her death his father emigrated to America, where his children had preceded him. He visited Colorado, Commission House of John Stewart, One of Concordia's Most Extensive Industries. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 291 remaining two years, spent one year with his son in Concordia, and went to Philadelphia, where he died at the home of one of his daughters in 1901. Mr. Stewart is one of six children, five of whom are living, a brother in Idaho and three sisters in Philadelphia. Mr. Stewart was educated in the National schools of his native country and finished in the academic institution at Londonderry, when fifteen years of age. His choice of a profession was engineering. His parents had aspirations for him to become a clergyman, but Mr. Stewart became neither. He left his native country to make a home for himself in the land o'er the far distant seas. He sailed for America May 18, 1882, one year before he had attained his majority. His attention was attracted toward the far famed silver mines of Leadville, Colorado. Upon arriving in that city he found work in an iron mine, where he remained four years. In the spring of 1886, he came to Ellsworth, Kan- sas, in the employ of a Leadville poultry firm, returning in the autumn of the same year to Leadville, where he resumed work again in the niine. ' The following March he went to the Pacific coast, intending to visit Alaska. He traveled over various parts of California and visited Vancouver's Island, where his mother's only sister resides, but retraced his steps to Colorado, where he engaged in the poultry and produce business under the firm name of Stewart & Company. The enterprise was not a financial success. They suspended business in December and for the third time Mr. Stewart entered upon mining — a last resort, it would seem. The following March he was again sent to Kansas to buy butter, eggs and poultry. He came to Concordia in 1888, and was at once attracted toward the town as an opening for a produce business. Mr. Stewart estab- hshed himself in a cellar, vmder where the New York grocery now is, on a very limited capital ; but his business increased and he soon located in larger quarters, and subsequently finding these too small he found more commodious ones, and later his enterprise assumed such proportions that he leased ground from the Union Pacific Railroad Company and erected a three-story brick btiilding, where this concern transacts a magnitude of busi- ness that is surprising in a city the size of Concordia. Mr. Stewart ships goods all over the United States, perhaps the bulk of which goes to. the Pacific coast. During the winter and early spring months he ships into British Columbia and east to Boston, New York City, Albany, Troy, and many other eastern cities. He transacts over five hun- dred thousand dollars annually and employs in the produce house upwards of thirty men, makes his own tubs, boxes, etc. Pie employs about ten agents as buyers in various localities. Within three years from the time of starting operations he built up a trade that footed two hundred and fifty thousand dollars annually. Thus as the world grows older and more progressive we see on e\'ery side proof of the assertion that the "self-made" man is the most prosperous and highly esteemed, and from this class many of the best citizens and leading men 18 292 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of our country have been taken. Mr. Stewart is in sympathy with the Repubh'can party, but too much occupied to give a great deal of attention to political matters. However, he was a valued member of the city council in 1893-4, and in 1898 was elected mayor of the city of Concordia serving two years. In 1896, Mr. Stewart was married to Lillian, a daughter of the late Cornelius Archer, a well known citizen of Concordia. He was elected sheriff of Cloud county and served several years. The Archers came from Ohio to Kansas in 1872 and located on a farm five miles west of Concordia, where Mrs. Stewart was born the first year of their arrival. Mrs. Stewart's mother died in 1882, and her father in 1892. After his death she lived with a brother in Kansas City until her marriage with Mr. Stewart. Mrs. Stewart is an educated woman of refined tastes. Slie received her education in the Concordia graded schools and in the academy of the Sisters of St. Joseph. , The commodious and substantial home of the Stewarts is brightened by the presence of two children, a son and daughter: John Archer, aged three, and baby Margaret. Mrs. Stewart is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. "THE PICNIC." ■ i In October, 1895, George W. Marshall and Harry Barton established "The Picnic," which at that time consisted of a stock of general merchan- dise. They discontinued a diversified stock and in 1901 removed a portion of their goods to their Delphos store, in which they became interested in 1899, and filled their present quarters with a line of gents' furnishings. They are stocked with the character of goods well suited to tlie trade, from the most fashionable dress suit to the goods of sti'onger texture for the laboring classes. George W. Marshall, the senior member of the firm, has been identified with many business enterprises in Cloud county since his advent into the state in 1875. He first became associated with Mr. Hinman in a general store. He was the first president of the Concordia First National Bank, has been mayor of the city and has been connected directly or indirectly with almost every interest promoted in the city of Concordia. His home is one of the most modem residences, in the city and the scene of many elegant social functions. Mrs. Marshall, before her marriage, was Josephine Truesdell, whose parents were among the early settlers of the county and established the first hotel, as mentioned in the early history of the new town. Her mother still lives in Concordia. Mr. and Mrs. Marshall are the parents of two sons, George and Joe. Harry Barton, the junior member of the firm, was for years a com- mercial traveler for the well-known wholesale grocery house of Julius Kuhn, of Atchison, Kansas. Mr. Barton had the reputation of being one of the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 293 most successful salesmen on the road and supplied almost every firm within the limits of his territory with goods. Mr. Barton married a Concordia young woman and soon afterward left the road and formed a partnership with ]\Ir. Marshall. They are one of the solid firms of the city and their far-reaching enterprise is linked with the growth and progress of their town. BERTHA A. MARLATT. In reviewing the history of Cloud county, no name stands out more pre-eminently or more conspicuously among the educational workers than the name of Bertha A. Marlatt, the retiring county superintendent, who has been associated with the schools of Cloud county since her advent into the community in August, 1888. When Miss Marlatt left her Ohio home, the place of her natrvitjr; and drifted west- ward, she had mapped out for herself the career of a teacher, and accordingly began her first school work in Cloud county. After teaching successfully in several of the coun- try districts. Miss Marlatt taught a total of four years in the Glasco schools. She has twice been tendered a position in the Concor- dia schools, but was offered a higher salary elsewhere, and declined for that reason. Miss Marlatt received her early educa- tion in the district schools of Ohio, and after going through the High school of New Lis- bon, took a two years' course in the Normal school of Canfield, Ohio. In 1898 she was elected to the office of county superintendent of Cloud county on the Republican ticket, was re-elected in 1900 and appointed to fill the vacancy from June until May, 1901, occasioned by changing the beginning of the term of office. Miss Marlatt has made an exceptional record in application, never having lost an hour from indisposition, but at all times and under all circumstances has been found at her post of duty. She has never missed but one summer institute since coming to Cloud county, nor a Teachers' Association within the past eight years. She has been a member of the examining board for about six years, and also president of the Cloud County Teachers' Associa- tion. In 1901 she was elected secretary of the thirty-ninth annual Kansas State Teachers' Association that convened in Topeka, and also had- that honor conferred upon her the present year, 1902. On Thanksgiving day, No\'ember 27, 1902, fifteen counties were represented in a teachers' association held at Clay Center, Kansas. Through the energy of Miss Marlatt, the banner offered for the largest number of representatives from any one county was Miss .Bertha A. Marlatt. 294 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. carried away by the fifty-six teachers in attendance from Cloud county. They also secured the association for the coming year; the first time in the history, of its organization that the banner and the association have Ijeen given to the same county. The first two years of Miss Marlatt's term in office she visited almost every school twice, spending nearly a cjuarter of a day with each. The last two years, she has given a full one-half day, with but a few exceptions, and visited a number of them twice. During the first springtime of her office reign she spent from six to nine hours daily on the road. The roads were in an unusually bad condition, and not knowing how to reach the districts conveniently, made her duties exceedingly arduous. From January 9, 1899, until January 9, 1903, she traveled with horse and buggy a total of ten thousand miles, which, at an average of five miles, including good and bad roads, makes two thousand hours spent in the buggy. Miss Marlatt instituted the district associations now held in various parts of the county, and they have been quite successful. Sixteen new school houses have been erected during her career ini office, and in three of them furnaces have been placed, namely: Districts Nos. 75, 76 and 68. The highest per cent of attendance that has ever been attained by the schools of Cloud county was in 1901, very few falling below ninety, and most of them ranging from ninety to one hundred. Miss Marlatt is self-educated, paying her own way through school, and at a time and place when opportunities were not so great as those offered to young men and women of Cloud county at the present time. Hence she has not much patience with the student who says he can't go through school dependent at least partly upon his own resources. She lived in a berry country where many hands were given employment. Tlie berries were picked and shipped to various cities. Miss Marlatt says she never looks upon a "berry patch" without recalling her childhood days, fqr in this humble pursuit she earned the means of educating herself. About this time she conceived the idea of going west, where the avenues of school work seemed more accessible. To carry out this plan required money. So, getting her courage together, she approached a good old Quaker neighboi' who was pruning his raspberry bushes, and asked for the loan of forty dol- lars, saying she "wanted to go to Kansas to teach school." The old gen- tleman looked dubiously upon her as he replied: "Thee going out there? Thee will get scalped." But he granted the loan, and a few days later Miss Marlatt found herself in Concordia with but little more than a dollar of the borrowed fund left in her purse. She was among strangers, and far from home in the "wild and wooly west;" but facing the inevitable, she dared not to do otherwise than succeed, and went to work with that reso- lution uppermost in her mind. The world pays deference to the man or woman who succeeds in life solely through their own resources and attains position. This has been accomplished by Miss Marlatt, and is a fine example to the student strug- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 295 gling for an education. As an official Miss Marlatt is admirably qualified by natural ability, and this, coupled with her broad fund of acquired knowl- edge, has done much in the way of promoting progressive projects. She is a woman of much strength of character, possessing a kind and genial disposition. The teachers find her sympathetic and generous, ever ready to extend to them helpful suggestions and encouragement when needed. The fact that she, herself, began at the bottom of the ladder and climbed persistently, but not without discouragements, has in all probability rendered her more generous to the rising young teacher that comes tinder her juris- diction. Miss Marlatt's father, William ATarlatt, was a Pennsylvanian by birth, subsequently settling in Ohio, where he died in 1878. Her mother is of southern birth, having been born in the city of New Orleans, but came north during the war and located in Ohio. She still lives at the old home near Columbiana. Miss Marlatt's sister Ella, who for several years was a resident of Cloud county, is married and living in Ogden, Utah. Miss Mary Marlatt, who has been associated with the schools of Cloud county for five years, and is also a very successful teacher, is a sister. She is at present engaged in district No. 8. Lawrence Marlatt, who for five years was in the employ of the Glasco State Bank, is a brother. He is engaged in the insurance business and resides in Glasco. Miss Marlatt is an ^.ctive member of the Christian church, and the Concordia congregation owes much of its success to her zeal. W. E. SHRADER. The subject of this sketch, W. E. Shrader, came to Kansas with the tide of emigration that rolled into the state during the early 'seventies. He bought the relinquishment of a claim on Oak creek, where he lived from 1873 until the latter part of the 'eighties, wlien he sold the homestead and bought a farm on Wolf creek. Mr. Shrader has been successful, owning five hundred and sixty acres of finely improved land, is retired from the busy farm life and, with his wife, is enjoying the proceeds of their accumulated interests in a pleasant home, a brick cottage located on East Seventh street. Their three sons and three daughters are all married and have homes of their own. His sons are all practical farmers and stockmen, and as they add other lands and their herds increase, their property holdings will be numer- ous as those of their sire. Mr. Shrader made every dollar of his present fine estate in Kansas and, although he has met with many reverses and was in straitened circumstances during the grasshopper raid, he prefers the Sun- flower state. Mr. Shrader was born and reared in Washington county, Ohio, near Marietta, the oldest town in the Buckeye state, but asserts he could not gain a livelihood there after having lived on the prairies of Kansas. However, there were times during his early career in the state when, had it 296 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. been possible to gather up his family and depart for fairer fields, he would have joyfully done so; but like most Kansans he was bound down and could not leave, for which condition he is now duly thankful. He is most happy that he continued in Kansas to raise cattle and hogs, having made the bulk of his property in stock raising. Our subject was nurtured in the principles of Democracy and still clings to that faith. Socially he is a member of the Concordia encampment of Odd Fellows. The Shraders are attendants of the Uunited Brethren church, of which Mrs. Shrader is a member. G. C. WILSON. There are several first-class grocery houses in Concordia, and in refer- ring to the best of them the well-arranged store of G. C. Wilson would be included as one in the foremost rank. His methods of doing business entitle The Up-to-date Grocery Establishment of G. C. Wilson. him to a place among the most progressive, as his industry, perseverance and superior qualities have placed him in line with men of good citizenship. Mr. Wilson succeeded C. A. Betournay in the grocery business in the spring- of 1900. ' HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 297 Mr. Wilson has been a resident in the state since 1884. He accepted a clerkship at Kirwin, Kansas, and six years later he entered the grocery department of H. C. Annan, of Beloit, as manager, and the length of time he was retained by Mr. Annan — seven years — is emphatic evidence of his reliability. But our subject was not satisfied to continue as an employe and established a business of his own. He purchased the J. J. Abercrombie stock, which he sold back to its former owner six months later and became proprietor of the Hugh, Garits grocery. One and one-half years later he dis- posed of this stock, removed to Kensington, Kansas, and engaged in gen- eral merchandising. After locating at the last named place Mr. Wilson's health became impaired and, selling his interests in that town, he returned to Kirwin in 1889. Although it is said "every move is equal to two fires," Mr. Wilson, owing to various circumstances, made several changes, but it remained for him to find a greater field, such as Concordia afforded, and where, from the very start, he proceeded to establish a reputation for enter- prise and fair dealing. He carries a full line of staple and fancy groceries and conducts a first-class bakery in connection which receives a large patronage. In this busy store five men are employed. A brother, Theodore L., a practical baker, is in charge of the bakery and has filled that position for one and one-half years. James Edward, another brother, is learning the trade with him. Mr. Wilson's father, Peter Wilson, was of Scotch birth. He emigrated to the state of New York when quite young- and lived there until his death in 1893. Mr. Wilson's mother was of German birth. She died in 1873. There were seven sons and two daughters in his father's family, all of whom lived to maturity. A sister died in 1894 and a brother in the spring of the present year (1903). Mr. Wilson's family consists of his wife, one \"aughter and two sons ; Bernice, Lynn and Karl Marx. They occupy one of the pleasant and desir- able cottage homes on West Sixth street. Politically Mr. Wilson affiliates with the Republican party and socially he is a Woodman, a Maccabee and a member of the Sons and Daughters of Justice. Mr. Wilson is entirely self-made, he has worked hard, attended strictly to business affairs, is kind, courteous and obliging, upright in all his dealings — qualities that are always winners, and our subject is no exception to the rule. W. F. SAWHILL, M. D. One of Concordia's most progressive physicians, Dr. AV. F. Sawhill, hails from Philadelphia and opened an office for the practice of medicine in March, 1883. By his skillful methods and successful treatments Dr. Sawhill commands the patronage of many of the most prominent peoople of the city. He is not only one of the most competent practitioners but one of Concordia's most useful citizens as well, and prominent in public affairs. 298 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. He is identified with, the school board, a body he is quahfied to render effi- cient service. Dr. Sawhill is a man of family and maintains a pleasant home. ALFRED E. PENNOCK. A. B. Pennock, proprietor of the Concordia elevator, is one -of Con- cordia's most esteemed citizens and business men. He was born in Barry county, Michigan, in 1849. He is a son of Ozias and Mary Ann (Rafler) Pennock. Ozias Pennock was a native of Vermont, but emigrated to Mich- igan in the early settlement of that state. He was seemingly fond of pioneer life for he emigrated to Allen county, Kansas, in 1859, and removed to Doniphan county in 1863. He subsequently returned to Michigan, where he died in 1898, followed by the wife and mother one year later. Mr. Pen- nock's mother was a native of Ireland and came to America with her par- ents when about fiye years of age. !Mr. Pennock received a limited education in the common schools of Michigan. He came to Kansas when the country was new and when there were no schools, in 1857. He crossed the plains when but fifteen years of age, driving six yoke of cattle for the freighting company of Stebbins & Porter, who were well known in those days. He went through to Central City, Colorado, returning in 1865 to Doniphan county, and later, with his father's family, to Michigan, where he worked on a farm until 1870, and again came to Kansas and filed on a homestead in Aurora township. Cloud county, which he improved and lived on for five years. Retaining his home- stead be came to Concordia and began working at his trade, that of stone mason and plasterer, which he had learned during his last residence in Michigan. Four years later he entered the employ of William Blair, the man who established the elevator Mr. Pennock now operates. He bought grain for him four years. Mr. Blair was succeeded by Glucose & Company. Mr. Pennock remained in their employ for one year and then established a grain business for himself in the town of Aurora. At the expiration of two years he, with his father-in-law, who owned a half section of land together, returned to the farm for one year, and in 1891 moved to Con- cordia. In 1892 he was appointed under sheriff and jailor, under Sheriff Archer. Two years later he bought the elevator and has since been success- •fully engaged in the grain business. On Mr. Pennock's advent in Kansas he had practically nothing, but now owns two farms in Aurora township, one he purchased and the other is his old homestead. They are both finely improved. He has a handsome residence property on the corner of Broad- way and Eleventh streets, in the city of Concordia. He was married in 1873 to Kesiah Prince, a daughter of E. L. Prince, a farmer of Aurora township, and an old settler who came to Cloud county in the early 'seventies. Mr. Prince left the homestead in 1876 and established a grain business in Jamestown, owning an interest in an elevator there. They HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 299 now reside in Concordia. To Mr. and Mrs. Pennock four children have been born : Ada, Florence, Alfred and Hazel, all educated in the Concordia schools. Mr. Pennock is a Republican in politics and was deputy sheriff, under John Wilson, the second sheriff of Cloud county, for four years. He has also served as constable of his township. He is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge, Knights and Ladies of Security and Triple Tie. By his industr}^ and integrity Mr. Pennock has accumulated a comfortable fortune. He possesses a kindly and benevolent disposition. Although an unpreten- tious, quiet man, he has a host of friends who appreciate his good qualities. W. H. L. PEPPERELL. Few men in Cloud county have risen from obscurity and gained the prominence accorded W. H. L. Pepperell. The interesting story of his life strikingly illustrates what a man can ac- complish when he possesses ambition and the energy and the steadfastness of purpose to execute them. From poverty, a "little boot- black," as he is pleased to call himself, our subject has risen to prosperity, occupies a high standing as a citizen and is admired for the broad learning and scholarly attainments he has acquired — from where and when it would be difficult to determine exactly — for he began his career ere his school days had fairly dawned. But with the same determin- ation that he has hewed down every obstacle in his path, he gained knowledge and ac- quired much of his book learning while in the employ of Mrs. Truesdell; furthermore it was of a practical kind, the quality that is a boon to the 1x)y who turns pathfinder. Mr. Pepperell was bom in Plymouth, England, in 1862. Li 1870 he came to America with his parents, who settled in Junction City, Kansas. As a mere child he evinced the same sort of emotion and ambition that beats in the breasts "of more mature and restless humanity. His extreme youth nor the influence of his parents, who were in limited circumstances, did not prevent him from taking the "world by the horns." He learned through a traveling salesman, that a position awaited him at the "Truesdell House" in Concordia. The conditions were, a "rustler," and, in addition, could earn fees blacking boots, doing errands, etc. As a result of having fasted all day, Mr. Pepperell arrived in the new town of Concordia with twenty-five cents in his pocket. He left home with enough to pay his car fare from Junc- W. H. L. Pepperell. 300 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tion City to Clyde and started to finish his journey on foot, but a kindly farmer gave him a ride in his wagon. Mr. Pepperell says should he live a century he could never forget the appearance of Mrs. Truesdell, in her silken gown, as she summoned him into her presence. He had expected to be ushered into a hearing with a grim-visaged landlord instead of this gra- cious woman, who appeared to him like a queen. She was a handsome woman and her grace appealed to the little stranger, as she mapped out a routine of duties for him to perform. Late in the afternoon Mrs. Truesdell discovered a look of weariness on the boy's face and thinking he may not have dined, true to her kindly nature, ordered a lunch prepared for him. Mr. Pepperell asserts that was the most sumptuous meal he ever partook of in his life, not excepting the scores of banquets he has since attended. He found a home with Mrs. Truesdell, a home in all that the word implies, and for a half dozen years lost his identity and was known as "Billy" Trues- dell. In the meantime our subject had established a reputation for shrewd- ness, coupled with honor and integrity, the first t^equisites to success, andl when the hotel burned down he was offered a clerkship, but refused a posi- • tion with a salary to enter the law ofiice of Laing & Wrong, that' he might 1 satisfy his longing for knowledge, an excqDtional sacrifice for a. -penniless*; boy, but a wise one, for here he acquired his business educatienj arid at the. expiration of one year had gained enough knowledge to forfn an association with N. E. Carpenter, an attorney and justice of the peace, in the real estate business. From this period he began tO' rise and- in 1 882, before having reached his majority, he was elected chairman. of the. I^enioci'atic county con- vention, and turned down an appointment, under Qoyerrior . Glick, because ; he had aspirations to become postmaster in Concordia. ■ In 1884 he; was elected a delegate to the national convention and also a member of the Dem- ocratic central committee, with which body he is still identified and has^ been secretary of for twelve years. This body comprises five counties. He became a candidate for postmaster in 1885 'and, succeeding a hard-, fight, which continued through eleven months, Mr. Pepperell was placed in'offrciaV position, under President Cleveland's first administration, and served with.' marked satisfaction for three years. Being among the following who believe "to the victor belongs the spoils," Mr. Pepperell resigned, under President McKinley's reign, six months prior to the expiration of his term. He was again chosen a delegate to the National convention that convened in 1892 and nominated ex-President Cleveland the second time. Xo better evidence of the efficient service he gave the people could be given than his second appointment to the position of postmaster in 1893, with virtually no opposi- tion, and held the office another four years. His popularity among political circles is shown by repeated gifts of the people and those in office. July i, 1898, he was appointed a director of the penitentiary by Governor Leedy and filled that office one and a half years. Air. Pepperell also has an enviable fra- ternal record. He has been through all the chairs of the Ancient Order of HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 301 United Workmen, arid has been a delegate to the grand lodge for sixteen consecutive years, without missing a session. In December, 1886, Mr. Pepperell was married to Mis^ Josephine Par- adis, a popular Concordia young woman. Mrs. Pepperell is receiver for the auxiliary department of the Ancient Order of United Workmen for the state of Kansas. They are the parents of one son, William Earl, aged fourteen, who has a fine school record. Since he began his school career his report cards have ranked first in every instance but two; in these they ranked sec- ond. Mr. Pepperell's parents are both deceased, his father dying in 1897 and his mother in 1884. They died in Grand Junction, where they settled upon coming to America. He has two older brothers, Thomas L. and Andrew, and one sister, Mrs. Sarah Jane Mannering. Mr. Pepperell has continued in the real estate business through his political career and has been exceptionally successful ; large sUms of money are placed through his agency and he is entrusted to the management of extended interests. He represents several of the leading insurance companies, and. whoever gives Mr. Pepperell their patronage is sure of courteous and careful consideration — the key to his success and popularity. No citizen has done more for the upbuilding of Concordia than he. No project is promoted that he is not a conspicuous figure and he has conducted the politics very acceptably to the Democracy of Cloud county. RAINES & NELSON. The firm of Raines & Nelson is composed of Dr. T. E. Raines and Dr. George E. Nelson, of the homeopathic school of medicine. Dr. Raines, the senior member of the combination, began his professional work in Concordia in the early 'eighties. His practice has steadily increased since that time until his services are constantly in demand. Dr. Raines is a skilled phj-sician and surgeon and when his attention is not engaged in attending his patients he is delving deeper into the researches of science, thus keeping abreast of the times. Raines & Nelson constitute the health officials of Cloud county. The Raines residence is one of the most comfortable homes in the cit)' ; while modest without it is elegant in its interior appointments. He and his family are accorded a conspicuous place in the social ranks of Concordia's citizens. Dr. George E. Nelson is a native of Republic county, Kansas. He is a son of James Nelson, a prominent farmer and stockman well known through his specialty as a breeder of pure Poland China hogs, having made one of the best records in this line as far west as Republic county. He is a grand- son of the late Reverend Nels Nelson, Sr., of whom an extended account is given in the data of the Jamestown vicinity. James Nelson settled in Grant township. Cloud county, in 1869, but a year or more later traded his home- stead for a team arid pre-empted eighty acres of land in Republic county, two miles north of the Cloud county line. Dr. Nelson's mother was Mary 302 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Hansen before her marriage, and is a sister to John O. Hansen, the popular Jamestown postmaster. Dr. Nelson is the second of four children : Minnie is the widow of C. M. Houghton, who died in 1902, leaving his wife, two sons and two daughters. Charles R., the third child, is a student of the Kan- sas City Homeopathic Medical College, where Dr. Nelson matriculated, and will complete his course in 1903. Dr. Nelson has been given superior educa- tional advantages. After leaving the common school he entered the Man- hattan Agricultural College, where he pursued a scientific course during the sessions of 1894-5, 1895-6 and 1896-7. To further his knowledge of Latin he entered the Emporia State Normal School. Medicine was Dr. Nelson's chosen profession; from boyhood he had dreamed of becoming a physician. In 1898 he entered the Kansas City Homeopathic Medical College and grad- uated from that institution in March, 1901 ; came to Concordia directly aft- erward and became associated with Dr. Raines, with whom he had practiced the year prior, on a student's license. Thus it will be seen Dr. Nelson has not had the obstacles to contend with that confront many young men. He seems to be one of fortune's favored ones, reaping the harvest sown by his prosperous father and distinguished grandfather. To many self-made young men his life would seem ''a happy song." Drs. Raines & Nelson have handsome office quarters on the second floor of the Caldwell Bank building. EDWARD J. ALEXANDER. The present county clerk of Cloud county, Edward J. Alexander, who was elected to fulfill the requirements of that office by the Republican party in November, 1902, has been a resident of Concordia since the autumn of 1885, when he accepted a clerkship in the Hinman dry goods store and con- tinued in that capacity until, as a candidate, he started on his electioneering tour. Mr. Alexander is a native of Kankakee, Illinois, born in i860, of French Canadian parentage. His family consists of a wife and the daughter of a brother, whose wife is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Alexander adopted the little girl, who is now thirteen years of age. The family are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Alexander is identified in a prominent way with the Catholic Order of Foresters. He has .represented the order as a delegate to different conventions for several years. Mr. Alexander is an accommo- 'dating official and worthy of the office bestowed upon him by the people of Cloud county. ARTHUR E. RENARD. A. E. Renard, of the firm of Choquette & Renard, furniture dealers, and also a member of Renard Brothers' New York Grocery, is a native of France, born near Paris in 1867. He is a son of John B. and Zella (Neveux) Renard, also natives of France. Mr. Renard's father was a telegraph dis- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 303 patcher; he emigrated to Saline county, Kansas, in 1871, where the family resided until 1895, when they came to Concordia, since which time he has lived a retired life. John B. Renard served seven years in the army of France as a musician, which took him over various parts of Africa, South America and the West India Islands. Fie visited his native country in 1889 and again, accompanied by his wife, in 1898. The venerable father of the Renard brothers, when a soldier with the French army, was stationed from 1 85 1 -4 at St. Pierre, the seaport recently destroyed by the eruption of Mount Pelee. He, together with other soldiers of his company, climbed to the summit and reported finding the ground hot like an oven. Many of the company could not reach the top and fell back overcome with the . intense heat. With this experience Mr. Renard naturally feels much interest in the volcanic eruption of Mount Pelee. A. E. Renard's paternal grandparents came to America in 185 1 and were thirty-two days crossing the water. They settled in Indianapolis, Indi- ana, and in 1878 came to Kansas, where they both died in 1885, at the age of eighty-four years. Mr. Renard, the subject of this sketch, was educated at the Salina Normal School, where he took a commercial course and grad- uated in 1891. In his early life he worked on his father's farm (which he still retains), but after finishing school clerked two years in a grocery store and then accepted the position of cashier in the Ellsworth Count)" Bank, where he remained three years. In 1895 he came tO' Concordia, forming a partnership with his two brothers, Aurore and Jule V., and established the popular grocery known as the New York Grocery. They carry one of the largest stocks in the city and control, in connection with this business, the entire ice trade in the city, doing a business of six thousand dollars annu- ally in the ice trade, and from t\Venty-five thousand to thirty thousand dol- lars in the grocery, and employ nine men. In 1898 the Renard brothers formed a partnership with N. J. Choquette in the furniture business, with a capital stock of about four thousand dol- lars. They have, in connection, an undertaking department and make a specialty of this line. Mr. Renard is a licensed embalmer of the state of Kansas, a student of the Champion Embalming College of Kansas City. Although a comparatively new firm, they do an annual business of from twenty thousand to thirty thousand dollars and are steadily increasing. A. E. Renard is one of four sons : Aurore, Jule V. and Emile, the latter living on a farm in Saline "county, Kansas. The Renard brothers own eight hundred acres of fine bottom land in the heart of the wheat belt in Saline county and raise on an average eight thousand bushels annually. Mr. Renard was married in 1895 to Virginia Serrault. Avho was bom and reared on a farm in Saline county, Kansas. To this union three children have been born, viz : Lewis, the eldest child, and a pair of twins, a boy and girl, Marcellus and Marcella, aged two years. Mr. Renard is something of an inventive genius; he has patented an extensible iron bedstead, which can be changed from three-quarter to full size, and is destined to become a pop- 304 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ular piece of furniture adapted to small rooms, etc. He has patented it in the United States and has applied for same in Canada and Belgium. He has refused twenty thousand dollars for the right in the United States. He is also patenting a buckle and a revolver. Mr. Burger is interested in the lat- ter. The gun will shoot sixteen shots and has no cylinder. A magazine is supplied instead and acts by motion of the trigger throwing the cartridge into the magazine. Mr. Renard is a member of various lodges and insurance companies, among them the Woodmen of the World, Catholic Foresters, Home Forum, Modern Tontines, has been past commander of the Maccabees and has been . through most of the chairs of the orders of which he is a member. Polit- ically he is a Populist, though not radical in politics. Himself and family are members of the Catholic church, of which he is a trustee. Mr. Renard is considered one of the reliable business men of Concordia, being industri- ous, enterprising and public spirited. In the summer of 1902 the Renard Brothers purchased the interest of N. J. Choquette and continue business at the same place. HONORABLE N. B. BROWN. The magnificent residence overlooking the Republican valley from its location on the summit of a hill to the westward of Concordia, is the home Col. Bsown's Residence. of Colonel N. B. Brown, one of Cloud county's distinguished citizens. On a fine summer day the landscape, as seen from this imposing site, is one of rare HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 305 and picturesque beauty. Looking down upon the city to the east are hand- some homes, public buildings, churches, with their spires gleaming in the sunlight, almost hidden within a forest of trees and shrubbery. To the west and north the productive and fertile valley of the Republican river stretches far beyond, and outlined against the sky is a terraced line of purple hills, marvelous panorama of natural beauty and one of the most enchanting views of the entire valley. ALBERT R. MOORE. The subject of this brief sketch is Albert R. Moore, who has, for the past five years, filled the important office of county clerk of Cloud county. He was born March 30, i860, in the state of Iowa, his parents moving to Ohio while he was yet a babe. Four years later they emigrated to Missouri, where they remained until October, 1883, when they located in Cloud county, Kansas. His father was a farmer, a native of Iowa, a sojourner in Ohio and Missouri, but settled on a farm in Arion township, Cloud county, Kansas, in November, 1883, where he died ten years later. His mother's maiden name was Ken- nedy; she was born and reared in the state of Ohio, where; she died when Mr. Moore was but three years of age. From this mar- riage three children were born, Laura B., Albert R. and Alonzo G. Previous to his election as county clerk, Mr. Moore's entire life was spent upon the farm, Avhere neither time nor opportunity af- forded the necessary schooling so needful to the youthful mind. During the political whirlwind that swept Kansas in the early 'nineties and caused such transformation of public sentiment, he studied closely the various problems of general interest and was thoroughly conversant with the most' intricate ques- tions of national importance and magnitude. Politically Mr. Moore has always been a Republican, and was nominated b}- that party and elected in 1897, when his three colleagues were defeated and the opposition party was at its zenith. During his term of office his cheerful, pleasant and obliging manner won for him many new friends, and he was re-elected in 1899 by a much larger majority, while his three political colleagues were again defeated. In the spring of 1900 he was elected a member of the city council, but resigned in a short time that he might devote himself more fully to other important matters. In December, 1897, Mr. Moore was united in marriage to Millie, the Albert R. Moore. 3o6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. youngest daughter of Alfred and Elizabeth Dotson, who emigrated from West Virginia in 1870 and settled on a homestead in Arion township. Cloud county, Kansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Moore three children have been born, viz : Norman, Ross and Lawrence. Mr. Moore is also an earnest advocate of Christianity and preaclies for the Church of Christ at Concordia, as well as other points. He is one of the few who assisted in the erection of a house of worship in the city of Concordia, which 'is neither sectional, factional or denominational. This house was built by worshippers alone, for the purpose of worship alone. In business j\Ir. Moore is clever, progressive and enterprising. He has acquired more than the average degree of knowledge and is a. man of rec- ognized ability and authority on various questions of vital interest and importance. In religion he sees no creed but the Bible, no faith but the Christ. In his official capacity he is cornpetent, courteous, kind and obliging, and those who know him best are his warmest friends. ERNEST V. KING. Success in photography more than in almost any other business or pro- fession depends upon the natural endowments and the fitness of the indi- vidual who has chosen that field for his lalwrs. To become even a mediocre in the art, the operator must exercise his faculties incessantly, for, while frequenting picture shops, the author has discerned that even the most pro- ficient are far from being invariably sure of results. \\''hatever the skill of the photographer may be, however well adapted for his chosen calling, he does not gain prominence without extended and intense application to work. The subject of this sketch,, E. V. King, many of whose photographs furnish illustrations for this volume, has made rapid gains toward the goal of his ambitions, since establishing his studio in Concordia in August, 1897. Mr. King "loves art for art's sake," and seemingly does not recognize a Hmita- tion. He is an indefatigable worker and can be found in his studio' from early morn until the lengthening shadows drive him from the work he , seems to have an irresistible passion for, and which makes it possible for him to acquire skilh Mr. King is young in years, having been born in 1874, but there is no time in the life of an artist (for a- photographer must be an artist to succeed) when he is not a student. Lincoln, Nebraska, is the place of his nativity. He was reared in his native state and laegan his present vocation as an apprentice with William Griffin, of Hebron, Nebraska. Mr. King conducted a gallery for one year prior to his advent in Concordia. He has a commodious and up-to-date studio on the second floor of the Dun- ning block, and has built up a lucrative patronage. He employs W. E. Gates, a practical photographer. Mr. Gates is formerly of Ohio, the state of his birth, but with his parents emigrated to Nebraska, where he and Mr. King were friends in their boyhood days. Mr. King was married in the spring of 1807 and his family is repre- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 309 sented by a wife and two. sons, Lyman and Karl. The illustration on the opposite page shows the growth of Lyman, their first born, and also demon- strates the progress Mr. King has made in art in the intervening space of time. Mr. King is a Republican politically, is a member of the city council and the member-elect -of the school board froni the Third ward. Mr. and Mrs. King are charter members and active workers of the Christian church, Mr. King being one of the church officials. NAPOLEON JOSEPH CHOQUETTE. N. J. Choquette is one of the substantial business men of Concordia. He is a native of Canada and was born in 1863. He is of French extrac- tion on his father's side, but his maternal ancestors were of Scotch origin. He is a son of Napoleon and Theresa (McDuff) Choquette, both natives of Canada. N. J. Choquette is a graduate of St. Cesaire Commercial College of the class of 1883. He started in life as a clerk in his own town, St. Damase, in a general merchandise store. In 1889 he came to the United States, locat- ing at Fall River, Massachusetts, where he filled the position of bookkeeper ■for two years. In 1891 he came west and stopped at Concordia. He was penniless and in debt ere he obtained employment. With a five weeks' board •bill confronting him he secured a clerkship in the grocery store of C. A. Betoumey, which position he held for nine years. At the expiration of this period he became associated with Mr. Reiiard in the furniture business and by their thrift, enterprise and close attention to business they built up an extensive and lucrative trade. In 1902 Mr. Choquette sold his interest in the furniture house of Choquette & Rena,rd and after a few months had elapsed he opened a place of business on Main street, between Washington and Broadway. His stock is new and fresh and Mr. Choquette will doubt- less command his share of the patronage. Mr. Choquette was married in 1890 to Mrs. Minnie Ragsdale, who died in 1894, leaving a child by a former marriage, who now resides with her grandparents in Iowa. In 1897 he was married to Ella Smith, a pop- ular young woman, who had been employed in the primary grades of the Concordia schools for several years. She is a native of Iowa and received her educational training at Monticello. They are the parents of a bright and interesting little daughter four years of age. The Choquettes have a very desirable home near the end of Sixth street. Mr. Choquette is a Repub- lican voter, a member of the Order of Maccabees, Knights of Pythias and the Modern Tonties. PARK B. PULSIFER. The legal profession is represented in the city of Concordia by some exceptionally bright talent and among those who have won marked dis- tinction as a leading member of the bar within the space of a comparatively 19 ^lO HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. few years is Park B. Pulsifer. For five years prior to casting his future with that of Concordia Mr. Pulsifer was associated in the office of the well-known attorneys, Taylor & Pollard, of St. Louis, one of the leading firms of that city. Air. Pollard, an ex-congressman from the Tenth Missouri district, is . an tmcle of Mr. Pulsifer. Mr. Pulsifer has come to the front rapidly since he came to Cloud county in 1885 and proA^en himself especially adapted to the profession. He is a popular and logical speaker, has been engaged in many important cases and is regarded as one of the most shrewd attorneys in northwest Kansas. VIVIAN E. ZIAIMERMAN, M. D. Among the young physicians of the county few have gained more prominence in the same length of time than Dr. Vivian E. Zimmerman, the subject of this sketch. Not far distant from the city of Denver, among the foothills of Weld county, Colorado, he first opened his eyes to the light of day. in the year 1877. He is a son of A. J. Zimmerman, of Grant township (see sketch), and with his parents came to Kansas in 1878. He received his rudimentary education in the district schools and by pursuing his studies at home, for, as a boy, he was a stu- dent, and early in life had dreams and aspirations tending toward a professional career. When a lad about six years of age he sustained a serious loss in the death of his moth- er, a woman of gentle and noble char- acter. After her demise he was taken into the home of his paternal grandparents. His boyhood days were not all sunshine, but he worked his way through the common branch- es, arid his determination to gain a profession rendered the undertaking possible. Not at the instigation of family or friends did he choose the career of an M. D., but from youth adopted medicine as his choice and never wavered from his purpose. Prior to studying medicine, however, he entered upon a course of pharmacy at home, more as a means of gaining the desired end, than from a taste for that calling. At the age of seventeen years he secured a position as drug clerk and continued in that capacity l3et\^'een three and four years. In the meantime Dr. Vivian E. Zimmerman. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 311 lie read medicine with Dr. C. I. Tidd, of Geneva,^ Iowa, and later with Dr. G. L. Goss, of ShefReld, Iowa, gaining a credit of one year in the med- ical college of St. Joseph, Missouri. After two years in that institution, his first experience in professional work was at Longford, Kansas, in the autumn of 1900, under a preceptor. Desiring more complete medical knowl- edge he subsequently entered the Nashville Medical College, graduated from there in the spring of 1901 and returned to Longford. In December of the same year he located in Concordia, where he has since been established. January 16, 1902, he received the appointment of county physician and held that office one year in connection with his private practice, which is steadily increasing. Cramping restrictions incident to financial situations were expe- rienced in Dr. Zimmerman's struggle to gain a profession and he has •encountered many obstacles along his career, requiring much energy and <;ourage to tide over these years of anxiety. However, success came as it invariably must to the energetic and faithful. It may safely be predicted that the future years hold for Dr. Zimmerman professional honors. He is a close student, devoted to his profession, and, like hundreds of western young men, is self-educated and self-made, a demonstration which carries with it a recommend. HONORABLE WILLIAM T. SHORT. William T. Short, one of the prominent residents of Concordia, ex-rep- resentative and well-known building contractor, was the first white child born in the -township where his parents resided in Stark county, Indiana. His birth occurred May 20, 1847. He is a son of Job and Nancy Short, who were both born in Sussex county, Delaware, in the years 181 2 and 1810, respectively. They were married in 1830 and eight years later emi- .grated to Cass county, Indiana, and thence to Stai'k county, where they remained thirteen years and then removed to Plymouth, in the same state. When they left their native Delaware there were not many railroads in exist- -ence, especially to the westward, and the greater part of their journey was accomplished on flatboats that plied the Ohio river. Their neighbors in the new home consisted largely of wild Indians, but with the industry and per- severance that characterize the pioneer of every country, they cleared a farm in the wilderness and gained a home. Their family consisted of nine children, six sons and three daughters, four of whom are living. Mr. Short's parents were also pioneers of Kansas. They settled in Washington county, five miles east of Clyde in 1867 and subsequently removed to Con- 'Cordia, where they lived until their deaths. The paternal ancestry of Mr. Short were Danish, his forefathers having emigrated to Delaware in the sixteenth century. They are a long lived race, all having lived to a ripe old -old age. Mr. Short received a good common school education at Plymouth, Indi- •cina, and pursued an academic course, but ere he had finished he enlisted his 312 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. services to sustain the stars and stripes. He was a member of Company E, One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Indiana Regiment. After being discharged he re-entered school, buf in 1866 he began learning the trade that has brought him good financial returns. That he might more fully complete the require- ments he went to Chicago in 1871, where he resided until 1873, when he came to Concordia, his present home and where probably he has erected more buildings than any other two men who have been engaged in con- tracting. Mr. Short has always been an uncompromising Republican, voted while in the army for Abraham Lincoln in 1864 and has clung to the "old bark" through evil as well as good repute. He was elected to represent Cloud county in the legislature in the autumn of 1898 and re-elected in 1900. In the various orders with which he is associated he has advanced to the highest office in the lod|^e. He is identified with the Knights of Honor, Knights of Pythias, Modern Woodmen of America, Knights of the Maccabees and Grand Army of the Republic. He has served three terms as member of the city council and two terms on the board of education in Concordia. In sum- ming up his characteristics, social and official career, Mr. Short jocosely remarked, "I am a full-blooded Methodist, but have not been working at the business much of late." Mr. Short w^as married October 7, 1877, to Miss Belle F. Hale, of Jewell county, Kansas. Mrs. Short left Nova Scotia, the place of her nativ- ity, when twelve years of age and became a citizen of Kansas. To their union have been born two promising sons, Rial A., born September i, 1878, and Floyd L.. born June 16, 1881, and a little daughter, Garnett E., born January 2^, 1892. THE DEPARTMENT STORE OF SCOTT & LINTZ. The history of Concordia would be incomplete if particular attention were not called to the far-seeing sagacity and business acumen of the two young men, M. D. Scott and F. W Lintz, who have overleaped obstacles that would have seemed to many more experienced merchants insumiounta- ble. They are successors to Kennett, Matson & Scott, who laid the founda- tion for what has become one of the most complete and up-to-date eater- prises in Cloud county. They draw a large patronage from the surrounding, towns even beyond the limits of their own county. The firm was organized in 1896. Homer Kennett, who had been a prominent lawyer for some fifteen years in Concordia, Mr. Matson, who had been associated with him in the profession for about five years, and M. D. Scott, the junior member of the combination, who was employed as clerk in the Bon Marche, discovered there vi^as an opening for a first-class dry goods and general merchandising establishment in the city of Concordia, and accordingly opened a store in the building formerly occupied by John Harkness. They first carried an exclusive dry goods stock and occupied one room only. One year later they HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 31 S added shoes. The house prospered and gradually grew in proportions until in March, 1899, they were compelled to purchase the E. T. Dunning stock of groceries, thus enabling them to enlarge their capacity. This firm also conducted a general merchandise store at Cuba, Republic county, Kansas. In October, 1902, M. D. Scott and F. W. Lintz formed an association and bought the entire interests of Kennett & Matson. From this date began a revolution of affairs. While the old firm was built on a solid financial foundation, the day and age demand modern establishments, and the new combination, not lacking in taste for the beautiful and artistic, as well as business ability, closed out their stock of groceries at retail within sixty days, threw out the partition, remodeled the entire interior and filled the one extensive room with a complete stock of dry goods, shoes, gents' furnish- ings, carpets and matting. Their stock invoices in the vicinity of thirty thousand dollars and is turned about three times annually. Their patron- age is constantly increasing and requires the ser\'ices of twelve people reg- iilarly and an additional force during special sales. The capital stock in the beginning of this organization was small, but not limited, however, for the senior member of the .firm had ample funds, while Mr. Scott furnished the experience which ultimately proved a win- ner, and to all concerned a good financial investment. The following biog- raphies of the present firm will be of interest to their patrons as well as their legion of friends, for they are both exceedingly popular socially as well as in the business world : M. D. Scott is proud to herald the fact that he is a native Kansan, having been born in Americus, Lyon county, in December, 1870. His father, W. C.- Scott, homesetaded in Lyon township, Cloud county, just over the line from Ottawa, in 187 1. In 1885 his parents removed to Con- cordia, where Mr. Scott was educated and began the clerkship that was but a stepping stone to an important mercantile career. His father's family are now residents of Oklahoma. Mr. Scott is one of three children, a Tirother in Aurora, Kansas, and Mrs. L. E. Abbott, of Concordia, is a sister. Our subject's mother died when he was a small lad and by a sec- ond marriage there was one child. The fifth day of the fifth month in the year 1895, Mr. Scott was married to Miss Louise Crumrine, who for three years had been a popular teacher in the Concordia city schools. One child "has been born to gladden their home — a little daughter, Frances, aged one and one-half years. F. W. Lintz, the junior member of the firm, although several years on the sunny side of middle life, has had years of experience. He began battling for supremacy at the age of ten years. After following various minor vocations of uphill sailing he signed as clerk for the Burnham-Hanna- Munger Dry Goods Company, of Kansas City. Mr. Lintz began at the foundation — ^t'hat of a stock boy — piling overalls; but his genius was ver- satile an'd two years later found him on the road as a special salesman. His activities in ±his Jine were a success, and subsequently he was placed 3i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in charge of the northeast Kansas territory with a general Hne of dry goods, Mr. Lintz, starting out in life before finishing a regular college course, exemplifies the recent statements made by Louis Stem, the great self-made New York merchant: "The youth who starts on the lowest rung of the ladder in a great business house has every chance of reaching the top if he shows energy and will power." In whatever hne Mr. Lintz turned his atten- tion he succeeded, and although identified with a firm of fine business men he decided to locate permanently. After a year at Beatty and Kansas City, Kansas, Concordia, giving much promise, was the town of his choice; hence the association as heretofore mentioned. Mr. Lintz was born in the state of Michigan in 1876. He came to Kansas City in 1895. He with his sister Nellie, now with her brother in Concordia, visited Denver with an idea of locating there prior to his services with the Bumham-Hanna-Munger Dry Goods Company. His father, William H. Lintz, located at Beatty, Kansas, but later removed to Kansas City and subsequently returned to their old Michigan home. There are three sons and four daughters in the Lintz family : A brother, Henry Lintz, succeeded to our subject's position as travel- ing salesman and is also possessed of a combination of traits that lead to- success. A sister. Miss Nan Lintz, is a stenographer in the employ of the Geiser Manufacturing Company, of Kansas City, Missouri. A younger brother and a pair of twin sisters, aged ten years, remain in the home of their parents. I. W. COFFEY, M. D. When a youth fifteen j'ears of age, Doctor Coffey visited an uncle who was living near Delphos, Ottawa county, Kansas. His ambitions asserted themselves early in life, and although his advantages had not been very auspicious he was resolute and worked his way through the High school, beginning with 1883. He taught school alternately for" five years as a means to gain an end; in the meantime took a one year's course in the Campbell University of Holton, Kansas. He then came to Concordia, entered the office of Doctor J- H. McCasey and began reading medicine. The office of Doctor McCasey is where our subject is now and where he has continued since he went in as a student. Doctor CofTey is another of the hundreds of , self-made AA^estem men. His surplus of cash when he finished his college course was eighteen dollars and seventy-five cents. He graduated from the Kansas City Medical College in 1893. He became associated with Doctor McCasey, but two months later the latter was appointed superintendent for the insane asylum at Topeka, and Doctor Coffey continued alone. He is a gen- eral practitioner and devotes considerable time to diseases of the eye and fitting of glasses, h3,ving taken a special course in optics while in college. Doctor Coffey was born in Greenburg, Decatur county, Indiana, in 1866. He is the only member of the family absent from 'the home circle. His father, Granville Cofi^ey, is a wealthy farmer and stockman ; also owns a tile HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 317 factory and a brickyard and is noted as a man of affairs. His residence is sit- uated twenty miles from the center of population of the United States, accord- ing to the census of 1900. Doctor Coffey is one of four children, two sons and two daughters. Doctor Coffey has been successful as a practitioner and is an esteemed citizen. He was married in 1893 to Miss Zoa Wheeler, the only daughter of Mayor and Mrs. S. C. Wheeler. They are the parents of one little daughter, Louise, aged seven. Politically he is a Populist, has served as coroner two terms and is secretary of the Cloud County Medical Society. GEORGE W. BURROUGHS. Both in the field of journalism and as a citizen George W. Burroughs, the subject of this sketch, has represented the interests of Cloud county. He has championed with his pen all measures promoted for the ad\'ancement of education, morality and religion, without regard to political issues, public opinion, or denominational societies. Mr. Burroughs came to Concordia in 1900 to take possession of the Blade, which he found low in the scale of prosperity. In the spring of 1902 he formed an association with George A. Clark, ex-secretary of the state of Kansas, and purchased the Empire, which they consolidated with the Blade, under the title of the Blade and Empire. On an unhope- ful foundation, success due to untiring efforts and journalistic qualities made it possible to conduct a daily paper in connection with the weekly, which is steadily gaining in popular- ity, not only because its local columns are replete with items of interest, but as an ad- vertising medium for the business people of Concordia and vicinity. The large subscrip- tion lists afford substantial evidence that both the Daily Blade and the Blade and Em- pire are largely distributed among the read- ing public. The equipment of the mechanical department of this office is one of the most complete in northwest Kansas and is an item worthy of remark. The new press on which these papers are now printed, is the latest im- proved Babcock Reliance, a machine largely used in the better class of printing offices. It is built to cover a special field — newspaper, book and job work. The press can be run at a speed of two thousand an hour, as noiselessly as a bicycle, and so smoothly that a full length lead pencil set on end on the frame is not jarred off. It occupies a floor space of five by eight feet and weighs three and a half tons. George W. Burroughs. 3i8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The Eclipse is a machine that abolishes the old method of hand fold- ing; folds, pastes, trims and delivers either four; eight, ten or twelve pages with a speed and accuracy that is wonderful. The presses of their job depart- ment are also complete to a degree seldom found in the smaller cities. Tliis con^'eniently arranged office is located on Sixth street, between Washington and State streets. Mr. Burroughs, the editor-in-chief and manager of this enterprise, is a native of the "Hoosier" state, born in Lafayette in 1858. He was reared and educated in that city and began his newspaper career on the Lafayette Times shortly after leaving school. From 1881 until 1888 he was city editor of the Louisville Courier- Journal and later was identified with the Louisville Commercial as editorial writer. After having been con- nected with various papers in the south. Mi". Burroughs established the Cen- tral City Republican at Central City, Kentucky, the only Republican paper in the thirteen counties that comprises the third congressional district. He came to Kansas late in the 'eighties and located in Dickinson county, where he became the first publisher of the Hope Herald, and subsequently the Abilene Daily and the Weekly Chronicle. Mr. Burroughs was married in 1 88 1 to Miss Clara Covert, of Lafayette, Indiana. Two children have been born to them : Covert G., who is a druggist by occupation, and a little daughter, Dorris, aged eleven. Mr. Burroughs has pursued his chosen field with a rare singleness of purpose and takes a pardonable pride in the suc- cess he has attained, and more especially in Concordia, where he practically resurrected one paper, and through the combination of the two sheets has developed a paper thoroughly alive. CHARLES EDWIN SWEET. C. E. Sweet, one of the old residents and best known business men of Concordia, is a native of Hornellsville, New York, born in 1848. His father, E. D.. Sweet, came from New York, his native state^ to Kansas in 1872, and located in Greenleaf, Washington county, Kansas, where he lived until his death in 1895. His mother died in 1872. Both his paternal and maternal antecedents were of New York. Mr. Sweet's early education was limited to a few months' schooling. When a youth of seven years he drove a team on the canal, where his father owned two boats and from this occupation he went on to a farm. When he came to Kansas in 1872, he carried the mail from Waterville to Washing- ton, and later bought the stage line that operated between those two points, which he drove for several years. He then employed the services of a driver but retained the line until the railroad was built through in 1878, when he came to Concordia and formed a partnership with Mr. Burtis, under the name of Burtis & Sweet, and established a general stock of hardware and implements. Two years later Mr. Burtis sold his interests to J. A. Wyer and the firm became Sweet & AVyer, and continued under this man- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 321 agement for a period of ten years, and were succeeded by Robinson & McCrary. Mr. Sweet was tlien on the retired list for about nine years, but retained his residence in Concordia. In connection with Mr. Bloom he opened a hardware store in his present quarters on the corner of Sixth and Broadway in 1884, under the firm name of Sweet & Bloom. Mr. Sweet bought Mr. Bloom's interests in 1888, assuming control and has conducted ,the business continuously and A^ery successfully ever since. When the firm of Wyer & Sweet retired from the hardware business they organized a bank at Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, and also purchased a flour and grist mill as a sort of speculation, and retained their principal interests there for about five years. Fie was also interested for a number of years in a foundry, the firm of Sweet & Crider. These enterprises were not a financial success, owing to the approaching hard times and inability of men in their employ. Mr. Sweet erected the building occupied by his present business in 1880. It is a large, two-story brick structure, one hun- dred and thirty-two by forty-foiir feet. He carries an extensive stock of shelf and heavy hardware, implements, harness department, paints and oils, tin shop and plumbing. He is interested largely in real estate and owns several business blocks and residences in the city of Concordia. Mr. Sweet is a self-made man but has not gained his wealth without his share of early ■struggles. Mr. Sweet was married in 1873 to Emma Height, who was deceased in 1880. In 1893 he was married to Clarissa Coleman, of Bridgeport, Con- necticut. Mr. Sweet is a believer in R^ublican principles and always votes that ticket. They are members and active workers of the Methodist Episco- pal church. — [Shortly after the above article was prepared, the Sweet Hard- ware Company went under the control of Foote & Ossmann, Mr. Sweet ■withdrawing from the "firm.] THE SWEET HARDWARE COMPANY. Among Concordia's numerous firms with young men at the helm, per- haps none have engaged in business under more favorable auspices than the proprietors of the Sweet Hardware Company, E. D. Foote and Karl Oss- mann, successors to Sweet & Browning. This house was widely known under the name of Sweet Hardware company, and the, new members thought it advisable to retain the familiar title. vSince Foote & Ossmann assumed control in November, 1902, they have been closing out the extensive line of farm implements heretofore car- ried in stock, but have doubled their facilities for handling vhicles and are opening up the most modern up-to-date class of goods in this line ever shown to the trade of Concordia and Cloud county. They carry shelf and heavy hardware and make a specialty of plumbing. Edward Rose, the mechanic they employ in this department, is an expert plumber and was with Mr. Sweet four years. The extended line of harness that occupies 322 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. nearly half of their large storeroom is all of their own manufacture, under the supervision of that very competent workman, Emile L'Ecuyer. They have a large patronage in this line, as the quality of work and material used are superior. Mr. Foote has been a valued employe of the firm for six years, hence is famihar with the requirements of the business and favorably known to the patrons. He is a Kansan, born and reared in Washington county, and received his education in Washington, the metropolis of his native county where his father, the present clerk of the court, has lived for more than a quarter of a century. Mr. Foote's mother is a sister of C. E. Sweet. Mr. Foote had an experience df six months as a traveling salesman for the United States Supply Company of Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. Ossmann is a German product, born in the Kingdom of Wurten- burg in 1870. He came with his parents to /America when fifteen years of age, and with them settled in Leavenworth, Kansas. Mr. Ossmann did not become a permanent fixture, however, and vacillated considerably. Reared in the wagon and vehicle business, he was employed by a St. Louis firm four years. He traveled two and a half years in Massachusetts, selling his line to the trade in northwest Kansas and southern Nebraska. Mr. Ossmann was married in the summer of 1902, which had a tendency to make him renounce the road and in November he became associated with Mr. Foote, as before mentioned. They are men of the highest integrity and superior capabilities, at the same time conservative in their transactions, and these traits united with the determined spirit inherent in these young men invariably lead to success. LESLIE E. ABBOTT. The subject of this biography is Leslie E. Abbott, proprietor of the Concordia Steam Laundry, and successor to Abbott Brothers, having pur- chased the interest of R. J. Abbott in 1901. This enterprise is one of Con- cordia's most successful industries, both from a financial view and from the character of its work. In February, 1896, Robert J. and Leslie E. Abbott purchased the machinery of the Barons Flouse laundry and removed it to a building on West Sixth stree. In 1898 they erected a commodious stone building on Fifth street, near A^"ashington, forty-four by seventy feet in dimensions, with a basement in the rear. They had grown out of their quarters on Fifth street, and when they established their new plant the facil- ities were increased about one-half. But a short time had elapsed, however, when their growing trade called for another increase of capacity and an addition was built, new and modern machinery added and among other improvements a cistern of five hundred barrels' dapacity — a very important feature, because this enables them to exclude the use of chemicals or acids. The plant is thoroughly equipped for the highest grade of laundry work. Their service is uniform in excellence and approaches perfection as nearly as can be done by experts operating the latest improved machinery. A ' h-l z H a o O z- t/) H M 324 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. large portion of their trade comes from the outside. The)- receive ship- ments of laundry bundles regularly from many of the surrounding towns, and also draw trade from the country districts. The annual cash receipts of this progressive business exceeds ten thousand dollars. They employ about one dozen people. Mr. Abbott is a native of Hamilton county Kentucky, but when a youth his parents emigrated to Ottawa county, Kansas, and settled on a farm near Delphos, where they li^-ed until coming to Concordia in 1889, eight years later. Mr. Abbott began his career as a printer and after work- ing in various offices at Bennington, Minnneapolis and Concordia, he engaged in the laundry business, being prompted because of the gro\^'ing need of that enterprise in the city. Prior to venturing into business for himself he had been manager of the Barons House laundry for about three years, which was the means of rendering him competent to assume the responsibility of a plant of his own, as he had gained five years of experi- ence, having worked in the laundry two years before assuming the manage- ment. Mr. Abbott was married in 1892 to Miss May Scott, a daughter of W. C. Scott, and a sister of M. D. Scott, of the enterprising firm of Scott & Lintz. They are tlie parents of one child, a little son, born in November, 1893. Politically Mr. Abbott has followed in the footsteps of his father and is a Democrat. He is a member of the Concordia encampment of Odd Fellows. Mr. Abbott has one of the most pleasant cottage homes in the •city, situated on Washington street near Eighth. Mr. Abbott has invested much of the proceeds of the business in the improvement and equipment of the plant and with the precedence he has gained it is doubtful if another laundry could establish a trade in the city. W. R. PRIEST, M. D. The skill of Dr. Priest, as a physician and surgeon^ is acknowledged by all who know him and has placed him in the front rank of not only the medical fraternity of Cloud county but of the state. He owes his success in some degree, perhaps, to the fact that his life has been spent in the two greatest commonwealths of the country, Ohio and Kansas. Ohio, is the place of his nativity and the latter his adopted state since 1886. Dr. Priest began the study of medicine in the Ohio Medical College, which is located in the city of Cincinnati, and graduated from there the same y-ear and just prior to com- ing to Kansas in 1886. He is a post-graduate from the Chicago Post-Grad- uate Medical College in 1895. It may be a revelation to many of Dr. Priest's friends to learn that, as a youth, he had aspirations and strong tendencies toward a ministerial career, being inclined in that direction for several years, or until he had reached his majority. Had the visionary idea clung to liim Dr. Priest would, in all probability, have discharged his duties as conscientiously and labored as indefatigably to HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 325. have promoted the welfare of the souls of his parishioners as has been dom- inant in his character toward saving the lives of the patients entrusted to his care. At the age of twenty-two our subject began reading medicine and in the meantime taught several terms of school very successfully. In the city of Concordia Dr. Priest laid the foundation of a practice that has increased steadily until it extends far over this section of the country. The success he has attained as a skillful and expert surgeon has elicited favorable comment from all classes of people, and his time and strength are taxed to the utmost in attending to his professional duties. For several years Dr. Priest has sup- plied the only hospital service in Concordia, which will be discontinued inas- much as he will be identified as the attending physician and surgeon at the hospital now being instituted by the Sisters of St. Joseph. Dr. Priest takes a profound interest in all the plans for the usefulness of this long needed enterprise. Besides his general practice Dr. Priest is the physician for the- Ancient Order of United Workmen of the State of Kansas, examining surgeon of the Missouri Pacific Railroad, and has filled the same position for the Santa Fe Railway for about a dozen years. He is vice-president of the National Railway Surgeons and ex-president of the Kansas Medical Society. Dr. Priest has recently added fresh laurels to his career by being elected general medical examiner of the Fraternal Aid Society during the ses- sion of their national convention, which convened in Topeka in May, 1903, and this honor was not won without rivalry, for there were six candidates in the field. Dr. Priest was married in 1887 to Miss j\lary Fitzgerald. To their union a son has been born, an extremely precocious and interesting little fel- low, J. Michael Priest, aged five. Socially Dr. Priest is identified with almost every lodge and order except the Woman's Relief Corps. Coupled with our subject's acknowledged ability as a professional man are other qualities that render him popular among his friends. He is genial, frank and honorable, ■with a generous sprinkling of humor that has been transmitted from his Irish ancestry, for the grandparents of Dr. Priest, both paternal and maternal, were emigrants from the Emerald isle. Dr. Priest has three brothers, one of them a prosperous merchant, another an attorney and the third a successful member of the medical fra- ternity, of Emerson, Iowa. To Dr. Priest's good qualities will be added last but not least a tribute to the professional aid he has rendered the young and aspiring physicians, several of Cloud county's rising practitioners owing much of their start in life to his sincere friendship and advisement. t LONG-McCUE LUMBER CO]\IPANY. Although the Long-McCue Lumber Company ha^-e only been estab- lished in Concordia since 1900 they have gained a solid footing and are recognized as one of the progressive firms of the city. They purchased 326 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ground, erected their own buildings and are a permanent concern. T. J. McCue and R. A. Long are the parties who compose the firm. They also have a yard at Smith Center, a branch of their Concordia yard, and handle LoNG-McCuE Lumber Company's Yards. their trade from the latter city. T. J. McCue has the management of the busi- ness and is a valued citizen of Concordia. R. A. Long is known all over the state and has yards in many localities, the Long Lumber Company being a familiar term, not only in eveiT part of Kansas, but Oklahoma as well. SAMUEL CARPENTER PIGMAN, M. D. As a representative of the medical fraternity and as a progressive citizen Dr. Samuel C. Pigman is entitled to a prominent place in the annals of Concordia. He was born in Wheeling, West Virginia. He studied med- icine in the Jefferson Medical College and graduated from that distin- guished institution in 1879. Dr. Pigman began the practice of his profes- sion in the east, but three years subsequently emigrated west and settled four miles south of Jamestown. In 1888 he removed to Concordia, where his success as a general practitioner is apparent. Dr. Pigman descends from an old and eminent Maryland family, sev- eral of his ancestors being patriots and brave defenders of the colonial honor. On the maternal side he is transcended from a race of medical men, there having been eight or nine in the profession during the same period. ■ He is from a long line of legal lights on the paternal side. His paternal grandfather was a noted attorney and numbered such men as Calhoun and Webster among his colleagues. He was a member of the Maryland upper Missing Page Missing Page Missing Page HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 329 house for a dozen years. He married Cloe Hansen, a sister of John Han- sen, president of the Continental congress. Dr. Pigman treasures a package of letters written by his distinguished grandparent. They are scholarly productions, replete with the thought of the age, and from their transmission it is definitely determined he was a Whig and disfavored bond-service or the subjection of one person to the will of another, for he writes : "I prefer western Maryland, for there are no slaves there." Our subject's father, Nathaniel Pigman, was born in western Maryland, but early in life removed to Wheeling, West Virginia, and opened the office of the Adams Express Company in that city in 1854, and. remained the company's agent until his death in 1865. Dr. Pigman was married in i88~5 to Miss Mary Moore, a daughter of Dr. D. B. Moore, .who was a resident of Cloud county for several years and during its early settlement. He is now a citizen of Osage county, Kansas. Mrs. Pigman was born in the Sac and Fox agency, while her father was stationed there as government physician. Three children have been born to Doctor and Mrs. Pigman, a daughter and two sons, Eleanor, Craig and Nathaniel. Politically Dr. Pigman is a pronounced advocate of solid Republican principles. He was appointed coroner by Governor John A. Martin to fill a vacancy, and was later elected to that office one term. Being inter- ested in educational progress. Dr. Pigman was a worthy member of the board of education in Concordia for a period of four years. He was appointed secretary of the board of examiners for pensions by President McKinley, during his first administration, and continues in that capacity. He is a member of the American Medical Association, of the State Medical Association and of the Cloud County Association. He has been pi'ominent in "Masonry for seventeen years, belonging to the Chapter, Commandery, Knight Templar, Royal Arch and has passed through all the chairs of the order with the exception of past commander. Dr. Pigman is not only prominent in his profession, but he has advanced the interests of his fellow citizens and the progress of the city. During the active years of his life he has been a thoughtful student and has acquired a broad fund of knowl- edge, and this, coupled with his humorous, jocose manner and witticisms, make him a companionable and popular fellow. JOSEPH H. CLINE. There is such a vast amount of competition in every line of btisiness that the commercial world is pretty well occupied with "bread-winners," each clamoring for success and a preponderance of the almighty dollar, but the old maxim which reads "There is always room at the top," applies to such com- petent men as J. H. Cline, who is widely known as a reliable and substantial business man, owner and proprietor of the Concordia roller mills, one of the best paying enterprises in Cloud county. Mr. Cline was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, in 1864. He 330 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. inherited his thrift and industry from the good old German stock. His par- ents were Daniel Kephart and ]Mary Caroline (Sciple) Cline. They were of German origin, but natives of Pennsylvania, of the class known as Penn- sylvania Dutch. His father, after farming a few years, learned the milling business and emigrated to Cameron, Missouri, in 1868, where he engaged in that business until his deaUi in 1882. Mr. Cline's mother died in 1867. They were the parents of ten children, all of whom are living and scattered over various parts of the United States. Mr. Cline was educated in the graded schools of Cameron, Missouri. He was practically reared in a mill, but in 1875 entered upon a regular apprenticeship with his father; applied himself faithfully and remained with the company two years after his father's death in 1882, and was interested as one of the heirs of the estate. A brother, George W. Cline, bought the interest of the other heirs and still owns and operates the Cameron mills. In 1884 Mr. Cline went to Nebraska and engineered a mill in Indianola until 1888. During this period he took up a homestead, built a "shanty" and held his claim four years. He sold at the end of that time and this was in reality the starting point of his actual business career. From Indianola he went to Jamison, Missouri, where, in connection with a brother-in-law, E. Y. Lingle, they leased a mill which they oper- ated until 1 89 1, and then, coming to Concordia, purchased the Concordia roller mills of H. M. Spalding. They were associated together until April, 1898, when Mr. Lingle retired and ]\Ir. Cline became sole proprietor. The capacity of the mill at that time was one hundred and twenty-five barrels. In the autumn of 1898 it was enlarged to two hundred barrels, its present capacity. Until 1891 the nearest mill was thirty miles distant from Concordia and they did an ex- tensive home trade. At the present time their business is more extended to distant territory. They ship into Missouri and all over the eastern part of Kansas. The Concordia roller mills were formerly run by steam, which they still retain,- in cases of emer- gency. The machinery in the mill consists of all modern appliances. Mr. Cline was married in 1890 to Etha M. Barthelow, of Missouri. Her father Mas of French extraction, was a carpenter by occupation and died when she was an infant. Her mother died in 1880, when Mrs. Cline was but ten years old. Air. and Mrs. Cline are the parents of three manly little sons : Owen Clark, Norman Joseph and John William. Mr. Cline is a Republican in politics and for two years has been a member of the city coun- Water Going Over the Dam in 1902, Prior TO THE New Channel. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 33' cil. Both Mr. and Mrs. Cline are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. In June, 1902, Mr. CHne was elected vice-president of the Kansas State Millers' Association. ELWOOD COATE. Elwood Coate, the county treasurer of Cloud county, is one of those men who command the esteem and confidence of the public in general. In light of the above statement the people are to be congratulated in the posses- sion of such a trustworthy and conservative man, who administers the duties of his office with strict integrity. Mr. Coate is a native of the Buckeye state, born in Miami county in 1843. His father, Samuel Coate, was a farmer, a merchant and for about a half century a minister of the Christian church, and had pastoral charge of the congregation at Meredith, this county. He was a pioneer of Iowa, emigrating there from Ohio in 1853 at a time when their nearest mill was eighty miles, the distance from Marshalltown to Cedar Rapids, and when the country abounded with deer and elk, and the best land could be bought for $1.25 per acre. He died in Cloud county in 1896. Mr. Coate's mother was also a minister of the Christian church. She died in Iowa in 1882. Mr. Coate traces his maternal an- cestry to the Furnases, who intermarried with the Coate family. John Furnas, of Cumberlandshire, England, lived in a town called Standing Stone. The father of John Furnas was a large owner of real estate, and because of his wealth he was known as Lord or Peer. They were members of the Society of Friends.- John Furnas had four sons: and Jonathan, the latter two being twins. In 1762 John married Mary Wilkinson, in the Friends meeting house. The building has since been removed to the town of Wigton and still stands. In October of the same year they embarked for Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, reaching that point February 18, 1763. Two days after casting anchor, and while they were still on ship, their son Joseph, Mr. Coate's material grandfather, was born. Thomas and Jonathan also sailed to the same harbor. The name was originally spelled Furness. From these brothers a long line of ancestry have sprung— several generations. Mr. Coate was principally educated in the common schools of Iowa, in the pioneer days of that state, and this, coupled with the duties of the farm, 20 Elwood Coate. William, John, Thomas 332 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. curtailed his educational advantages. At the youthful age of twenty he enlisted in Company I, Second Iowa Cavalry, for three years, serving until hostilities ceased, a period of eighteen months. During this time he was in the thickest of the fight, participating in eleven hard fought battles and numer- ous skirmishes. At Nashville their brigade was under fire continuously for several weeks. His brigade was under the command of General Coon, and their division commander was General Ed. Hatch. After the war Mr. Coate returned to Iowa and established himself in the harness business, but owing to ill health discontinued that line and learned the carpenter trade, which he followed for eighteen years. In 1885 he came to Kansas and set- tled in Oakland township, where four years prior he had secured a quarter section of land. He now owns a half section, which is under a high state of cultivation, with modern improvements. He is also a horticulturist and has an orchard of over three hundred peach trees, a large apple orchard, apricots and small fruits. Mr. Coate was born and reared in the faith and principles of the Republican party and says he remains the same politically, but does not affiliate Axith them because they have left him, and he now votes with the Populist party, which elected him to office in 1899. The office for eight years had been held by the Populists. Mr. Coate was nominated by friends, and at their earnest solicitation allowed his name to go before the conven- tion, but afterward did his part in the campaign. Prior to being elected to his present office Mr. Coate had served in minor offices for many years. He was married in 1866 to Susan Elleman, a daughter of Joseph and Anna Elleman, of Ohio. Mrs. Coate died two years subsequently, leaving an infant son, Oron M. He is a resident of Iowa and a member of the Economy Manufacturing and Supply Company, of Des Moines. Mr. Coate was married to Sarah Diefenbaugh in 1869. She is a daughter of David and Christina Diefenbaugh, of Lewisburg, Preble county, Ohio. To this second marriage three children have been born, two of whom are liv- ing, both sons. Herman E., who now lives on and operates the farm, filled the position as deputy treasurer in 1893 . He was previously employed as a clerk in the county clerk's office. For two years he was bookkeeper in the insane asylum of Topeka, but when Governor Morrill was inaugurated to office the Populists were ousted, and, being of that political faith, he had' to go. H. E. Coate's family consists of a wife and two daughters, Mabel and A'iva. The other son is Samuel Rush, who is his father's deputy. He was reared on the farm and received his early education in the school of that district. In June, 1895, he entered the Kansas Christian College, of Lin- coln county, Kansas, and took a two-years' course. He owns a farm in Nebraska, where he had lived several years before assunung his position in the treasurer's office. His wife was Rose Mills, who came with her parents to Kansas from Iowa, when she was a child, and located in Lincoln county. Her father was John Mills and now resides in California. Bessie Wilkins, the motherless child of Andrew Wilkins, of Nebraska, found a home with CoN'CORDiA Ice and Cold Storage Plant, One of the City's Latest and Most Extensive Enterprises. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 335 the family of Elwood Coate. Elwood Coate was one of a family of ten children, nine of whom are living, and all have families in various parts of the country. Mrs. Rose, president of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, of Concordia, is a sister, and J. W. Coate, who lives in the southern part of Cloud county, is a brother. He has a brother and sister in Stutt- gart, Arkansas, two sisters and a brother in Iowa and one in Oklahoma. Mr. Coate was not wholly satisfied with Kansas until the year of the World's Fair, when he, with his wife and son, visited Iowa and found the attractions there were less than those of Kansas. He has been successful from a financial standpoint and does not regret having made a home in the Sunflower state. The Coate family have a pleasant home on West Ninth and ^Vashington streets, in Concordia, but expect to return to the farm when Mr. Coate's office days are over and resume stock raising.. The fam- ily are all members and active workers in the Christian church. GAUDREAU BROTHERS. The illustrated interior gives an idea of the well appointed meat market of the enterprising Gaudreau Brothers, successors to J. C. Paradis. The firm is comprised of Henry and F. F. Gaudreau, who were born in Kankakee, Illinois, but who were practi- cally reared in Cloud county. Their father, the late Nelson Gaudreau, died a few years following his removal to Buf- falo township in 1887. The elder member of the firm is a man of family. The junior member, F. F. Gaudreau, was in the employ of J. C. Paradis for about five years, therefore when they assumed control of the business in September, 1902, were well experienced in catering to the trade. Their line of fresh and salt meats supply many of Concordia's best homes. They are young men of sterling worth and have established a first-class busi- ness, with prospects of excellent success. CONCORDIA ICE AND COLD STORAGE COMPANY. JBM^'M\ ^^H _ ^^Hm ^^h[ H ^■-'^ - 11 ..il '' -^^3 Pl HE 1 ' .:M ^K R ^^^^v i IHE mm u E I 1 •d -J I^J^w^i^ .4. „. ... -i- 1 f™^ i^fet^- I ii" i* I Interior View of Gaudreau Brothers Market. The citizens of Concordia can now boast of cooling their beverages, freezing' their own ice cream and the score of other uses for which ice is appropriated, by an article pure and unadulterated, manufactured in their 336 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. own city. This extensive factory, recently instituted in Concordia, prom- ises to lead the vanguard in the production of ice and furnish the trade of many adjoining cities and villages. Their capacity is fifteen tons daily. This enterprise, with its storage capacity of fifty cars, filled a long felt want when they began operations about the middle of October, 1902. The firm and its officials are composed of John Stewart, president; George G. Hill, secretary ; A. Hirsch, vice-president, and Charles A. Betournay, treasurer and manager. This well-known firm seems to have labored with the idea that their reputation was their capital and conse- quently used nothing but the best of material in the building of their plant, a massive stone structure — the native product — and expended thirty-five thousand dollars in its construction. The machinery, which is of the most modern and approved patterns, is all in duplicate form, this precaution is' used to overcome the necessity of having the wjsrk retarded in case of break- downs and to hold the compartments at a certain temperature, as their con- tracts specify. The engines used are fifty-horse power. The product of this factory is absolutely pure and as colorless as the most brilliant crystal. The water is first distilled, then skimmed to remove any foreign matter that might be floating on the surface; secondly it is reboiled to drive every par- ticle of air out, that it may freeze solid; thirdly it is filtered through a quartz filter and again through a charcoal purifier and lastly through a sponge filter. The company also have their own dynamo. Their location in the vicinity of the depots is a convenient feature, with reference to transit. To this enterprise the city of Concordia is indebted to an extent impossible to estimate. ALVIN LEE WILMOTH. It is a quarter of a century since Alvin Lee Wilmoth, the subject of this sketch, became a resident of Kansas. Since 1890 he has been a leading citi- zen of Concordia, one who has been closely identified with the professional and business interests of the city. The Wilmoths settled in Marshall county, where his father continued to reside until about a year ago, when he removed to Wabaunsee county. Nearly forty years ago Mr. Wilmoth's parents emi- grated from Ohio, their native state, to Jasper county, Iowa, where our sub- ject was born in 1857. Their residence in Iowa was brief, however, and they returned to their former Ohio home and later to Kansas, the "Eldorado" of the west. The literary education of Mr. Wilmoth was received in the com- mon schools and in the State Normal School of Warrensburg, Missouri. Following this institution he entered the State University at Lawrence, and after finishing a course in the law department located in Concordia, where he formed an association with the late E. L. Ackley, who was a classmate in the university. The combination was a prosperous one, building up an extended clientage in a comparatively brief time. In 1897 Mr. W. W. Caldwell joined them and the firm became Caldwell, Ackley & Wilmoth, continuing as such HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 337 until the untimely death of Mr. Ackley in August, 1901, when it became Caldwell & Wilmoth. Mr. Wilmoth is a firm believer in Republican princi- ples and was elected by his party to the office of county attorney in 1894 and again in 1896. He carried Cloud county at a time when the country was ruled by Populists and was the only Republican elected on the ticket, with the exception of Mrs. Brierley, of Glasco, who was elected superintendent of schools. That he was an attorney of ability and integrity and considered so by the people is evidenced by the overwhelmingly large vote he received. He ran ahead of the McKinley electoral ticket in Cloud county in 1896 by over one hundred votes. Succeeding Mr. Ackley, Mr. Wilmoth served two terms as regent of the State University. For ten years he has been attorney for the Missouri Pacific Railroad. In educational matters he is especially interested and has been a faithful member of the school board for six years. Mr. Wilmoth was married in 1892 to Miss Emma T. Dunn, a daughter of Dr. D. M. Dunn, now a resident of Minneapolis, Kansas. Dr. Dunn is a pioneer in the state and has been active in many enterprises aside from a pro- fessional career. He was located at Colby during- the "boom" days of that town and established the well-known and unique sheet. The Thomas County Cat, which was celebrated for its originality. Mrs. Wilmoth is a graduate of the State University and while a student there met her future husband. After her graduation she became a teacher in the university and taught lx>th before and after her marriage to Mr. Wilmoth. To their union two bright little sons have been born, William Alvin and John David, aged six and two years, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Wilmoth are consistent members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. Fraternally Mr. Wilmoth is a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge, is a past chancellor and a member of the grand, lodge. He is also identified with the Order of Elks. Having been self-sustaining since a youth and having earned his own way through the university, Mr. Wilmoth adopted early in life the habits of industry and perseverance, which brought their returns in after years, and his influence for good is felt in the advancement of measures for the progression of all worthy promotions. The comforts of a pleasant brick cottaage, at the foot of West Sixth street, is not the least of Mr. Wilmoth's requitals. ASA FORTNEY. Asa Fortney, the present clerk of the court of Cloud county, comes from good old Virginia stock of French origin. The name was formerly spelled Fordney, but after becoming American citizens the name was changed by dropping the "d" and anglicized by substituting the "t." The name Fortney is found in nearly every state of the Union, a considerable number being in the ministry, some are physicians, others are members of the legal profession, many have been educators in both public school work and in the higher institutions of learning, some have been superintendents 338 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of public instruction and others statesmen. Mr. Fortney's grandfather, Dan- iel Fortney, was a native of France and married into the Pickenpaugh fam- ily, of whom those of Morgantown, Virginia, are a branch. She was a Ger- man woman and taught their children to speak their native tongue. They emigrated to America in the seventeenth century and settled in Maryland, near Harpers Ferry, where they bought land and farmed several years. Rumors reached them of a country in the far west (Virginia), where the buffalo or bison and the lithe-limbed deer wandered at will. Animated with a desire to visit this remote region they sold their posses- sions in Maryland and settled in Virginia in 1795. They bought land in Preston county, Virginia (now included in Monongalia county. West Virginia), where they lived until their death. Their sons were Daniel, Henry, Jacob and John. The sons of Daniel were John, David, William P. and Barton. The sons of Henry were Hunter, David M., Aquilla" and Jacob. The sons of John were Elisha, Buckner, John H., Caleb and Thomas. The sons of Hunter were Elisha, George, Aquilla, John and Asa — the subject of this sketch. Mr. Fortney received his rudimen- tary education in the common schools of Virginia, followed by a two-years' course in the Mount Union College. He spent his earlier life in edu- cational work and was a very successful teacher. He had just attained his majority when he came to Kansas in 1877. He came on a sort of prospecting tour, allured by the desire of obtaining land, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres, which he rented. Not being pleased with the newness of Kansas, as a place of residence, he located tem- porarily in Illinois and taught school for one year. The following year he bought another quarter section of Kansas land. For a year he vacillated between the Sunflower state, Illinois and Virginia. But that indefinable something that draws people back again who ever tarries within her bor- ders, brought Mr. Fortney to Kansas soil again in 1879. Having given his attention to ministerial work in the meantime, he supplied the Methodist Episcopal churches of Seappo and Fairview, and the next year Greenleaf cir- cuit. He ministered one year at Woodbine, Dickinson county, and since then he has been engaged in farming and stock raising. He owns three quarter sections of land in Sibley and Lawrence townships. Mr. Fortney's father was a Whig and one of the organizers of the Republican party and he has inherited his father's principles. He was nominated by the Republican party Asa Fortney. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 339 at their convention in 1902 and was elected with an easy victory — was high man on every batllot. Mrs. Fortney, before her marriage, was Adie McKinney and was reared in the same Virginia community with her husband. Mr. and Mrs. Fortney are the parents of two children, a daughter and a son. Elizabeth Ellen is a young lady of eighteen years, who has not yet finished school. William John is a school boy of sixteen years. Fraternally Mr. Fortney is a member of the Independent Order of Odd P'ellows, Concordia Encampment. That Mr. Fortney will prove a capable, efficiait and courteous official is conceded by all who know him. As a citizen he is held in high esteein and in his home life maintains all the traditions of true southern hospitality. TAYLOR & AHI,BERG. The firm of Taylor & Ahlberg carry one of the best-selected stocks of footwear in northwest Kansas. The accompanying illustration shows the well-appointed interior of their exclusive shoe store, which would be consid- ered a first-class enterprise in a much larger city than Concordia. The senior member of the firm is J. B. Taylor, who came to Concordia Interior View of Taylor & Ahleerg's Exclusive Shoe Store. in the interests of the J. Green Lumber Company, and was with that concern four years, followed by three years in the grocery business with Peter Betoumay. Severing his connection with these firms he bought grain for various dealers and for himself, and is still interested in that line. Mr. Taylor is a native of Stanford, Lincoln county, Kentucky, where he received 340 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. a common school education, alternating his studies with farm work. He was married in 1884 to Mary J. (Vaughn) Perkins, a daughter of Cliarles Vaughn, of Iowa, where she was born. Politically Mr. Taylor is a Demo- crat and socially he is identified with the Knights of Pytliias and Ancient Order of United Workmen. Since establishing their present business in Concordia in 1896, Taylor & Ahlberg have demonstrated their ability to cater to the needs of the pub- lic in their line and have built up a large patronage. Their store is on Sixth street, near the Bon Marche. Alfred Ahlberg, the junior member of the firm, is a son of Charles Ahlberg and the youngest of a family of eight children. His father died when Mr. Ahlberg was a small boy, aiid his mother was deceased in 1885. Mr. Ahlberg was born in Northport, Sweden, in 1859. When thirteen years of age he apprenticed himself to learn the shoemaker's trade, which he acquired very thoroughly, serving twelve years, half of that time with- out receiving any remuneration for his labors. In 1885 he emigrated to America and after a residence of six months in Clay Center, Kansas, removed to Concordia, where he worked at his trade ^'ery successfully until 1896, when he formed his present association with Mr. Taylor. There is no better workman to be found than Mr. Ahlberg and his knowledge of footwear asserts itself in their large and superior class of goods. Mr. Ahlberg was educated in the common schools of Sweden. He is a quiet, unassuming business man, who has acquired a good start in life by his industry, integrity and personal efforts. HONORABLE WILLIAM WILSON CALDWELL. Prominent in the business circles of Concordia stands the name of W. W. Caldwell, where for years he has been one of the most enterprising and public-spirited citizens. To him the city is indebted for several of its most pretentious structures, among them the Caldwell Bank building, Layton & Neilson block and the "Caldwell Hotel." The latter, just completed, is said to be one of the most elegantly equipped and appointed hotels in north- west Kansas. The emigrant of the Caldwell family was John Caldwell, who was born and reared in County Antrim, Ireland. Tired of the poverty and oppression which English rule produced in his native land, he sought the freedom of America and took passage for the United States in 1809. But persecution followed him into the New World, for in 181 1 he was taken from an American vessel by a British man-of-war and forced into severe service, as was the custom of those times. He deserted at Montreal one year later and enlisted in the United States army and served until the close of hostilities. He subsequently married Miss Mary McClure and estab- lished a home in Ross county, Ohio, where James, the father of our sub- ject, was born. His mother before her marriage was Miss EHzabeth Shep- ard, of Athens, Ohio. She also came of English stock. James Caldwell HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 341 moved to Iowa in the early settlement of that state, where W. W. Cald- well was born in Jefferson county, November 2, 1840. He grew to man- hood on his father's farm, combining the duties thereon with attendance at school in Agency City,, finishing his education by attending for one year the Denmark (Iowa) Academy. He served in the civil war with H. B. Johnson's Independent Missouri v^ Honorable W. W. Caldwell. Battery. After the war clouds had passed over he began the study of law with R. H. Gilmore, of Keokuk, Iowa. In March, 1866, he removed to Savannah, Missouri, where he pursued his studies under the instruction of the late James W. Strong, of St. Joseph, Missouri. Mr. Caldwell was admitted to the bar in 1870 by Judge Isaac C. Parker, of St. Joseph. While in Savannah he served as deputy clerk of the circuit court and was elected mayor of that city. He came to Concordia in 1885, and for several years was associated with Hale H. Cook and E. S. Ellis under the firm name of Caldwell, Ellis & Cook. They had a large clientage in the courts through- out northern Kansas. In 1897 Mr. Caldwell organized the firm of Cald- well, Wilmoth & Ackley, and conducted an extensive commercial and cor- < HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 343 poration practice. Since Mr. Ackley's death, in 1901, the firm has been Caldwell & Wilmoth. Mr. Caldwell organized the Citizens' National Bank of Concordia in 1887, and was president of that institution until its consolidation with the First National Bank of Concordia in 1898. He is an ardent Republican in politics and has been a member of the Repub- lican state central committee, and chairman of tiie Republican state central com- mittee of Cloud county. In 1892 he was on the Republican national ticket for presidential elector and was a delegate to the national Republican con- vention which convened at Philadelphia, January 19, 1900. Mr. Caldwell has been twice mayor of Concordia and was the candidate in the last city election. He was defeated by S. C. Wheeler by one vote, after the hardest fought battle in the history of Concordia. Mr. Caldwell is a leader in politics, is authority on financial issues and one of the first to expose the fallacy of the free coinage of silver. He was an advocate of the main- tenance of the "existing gold standard" long before it was written in the St. Louis platform in 1896. Mr. Caldwell was married in 1869 to Camilla A. Kellogg, of Keokuk, Iowa. Four children have been born to them : E .W., of New York City, J. F., of Hastings, Nebraska, Mrs. J. P. Barrett, of Concordia, and Miss Edith, who lives at home. Eugene W. Caldwell, their eldest son, has attained success and prominence in the professional world. Although but thirty-two years of age he has spent a year on the continent, is lecturer at Bellevue hospital, New York City, and the author of a scientific work for the use of the medical fraternity, entitled, "The Practical Application of Roentgen Rays in Therapeutics." He is also director of the Edward N. Gibbs Memorial X-Ray Laboratory, and the Bellevue Hospital Medical College. NOE & MOORE. The cut on page 344 represents the enterprising livery firm of Noe & Moore, formerly known as the "Barons House" barn. (See sketch of S. H. Baron. ) Andrew Noe, the senior member of the firm became associated with C. D. Byrum in the livery business in 1899. In March, two years later, J. R. Ballard purchased the interest of Mr. Byrum and the firm became Noe & Ballard. They were successful and witnessed a steady growth until they received their share of the patronage. In the spring of 1903 Carl Moore bought Ballard's share of the stock and as Noe & Moore, the busi- ness will continue to progress, for both are favorably and well known. Mr. Noe, the senior member of the firm, has recently purchased the barn — which is a fine stone structure — of Mrs. F. E. Barons. Mr. Noe is a native of Ogle county, Illinois, born in 1869, but has been reared in Cloud county, having settled on a farm with his parents, twelve miles south of Concordia, when he was but nine years old. His father, Samuel Noe, still lives on the farm. His mother died in 1899. Mr. 344 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Noe was married in 1883 to Etta, a daughter of Otis Keiiworthy, a farmer of Smith county. They are the parents of two bright and beautiful chil- dren, Lila and \\^inona. Mr. Noe transcends from a race of divines, both his paternal and maternal grandfathers having been ministers. Carl Moore, the other member of the firm, is the sheriff of Cloud county, serving his second term. Mr. Moore is one of the best known men in the com- munity. He was under sheriff during the two terms Morrisette was in office. Al- though born in Whiteside county, Illinois, in 1869, Mr. Moore may be considered a Kansas product, for he came to Cloud county with his parents when but two years old. He is a son of C. F. and M. L. (Cur ran) Moore, both natives of Ohio, but settled in Illinois soon after the Civil war. His father bought land four miles south of Concordia, but in the latter part of 1880 sold his property there and purchased a farm two miles east of Con- cordia, where he lived until recently, when he removed to that city. Mr. Moore became a voter about the time the Populist party was organized and has been an ardent supporter of its principles. He was elected to office by a majority of one hundred and fifty-four and led the ticket by eighty-eight votes. In the last election he was one of the two fusion candi- dates on the ticket elected. He had previously served two terms as constable of Concordia and was city marshal for about six months. The combination of Noe & Moore assures their -success, for both are popular and enterprising men. Their stock of roadsters and vehicles is up-to-date and will undoubtedly promote favor and continue to drawi large patronage. Livery Barn of Noe & Moore. JAMES VOSS PRICE. The subject of this sketch, James Voss Price, is the venerable father of Syh'ester Baily Price, one of Cloud county's able commissioners. Mr. Price descends from an ancient and patriotic English family, a branch of which settled on the Little Peedee river in the state of North Carolina, prior to the period of the Revolutionary war. He is a grandson of the patriotic John Price who served all through the Revolution under General Marion. His father, John Lowry Price, demonstrated his valor by shouldering a HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, . KANSAS. 345 musket and rendering duty as a soldier all throtigh the war of 1812, and was slightly wounded. He was born on the Little Peedee river but emi- grated to Barnes county, Kentucky, in the early settlement of that state and where James Voss Price was born in 1812. In December, 1852, he, with his family drove through the country to southern Illinois and arrived at their destination, what is now known as "Little Egypt," on Christmas day. Our subject's maternal grandfather Voss, from whom Mr. Price received his Christian name, was also a soldier of the Revolution. The Voss and Price families settled in North Carolina and in the same community almost simultaneously. Like his distinguished ancestry, Mr. Price was a patriot. When Company H, Eighty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, was instituted he responded to the call for more troops by enlisting in their ranks August 12, 1862. He entered as second lieutenant and was promoted to first lieutenant, but after receiving his commission was compelled to resign on account of a crippled foot and ankle that would not admit of participat- ing in the march. The patriotism of the Price antecedents has been handed on down the line. The two sons of Mr. Price were both soldiers of the Civil war and members of the same company with their father. Mr. Price began his career by. working on a farm near Bowling Green, Kentucky, where for three years he received five dollars per month. He was next installed as overseer of the McCutcheon plantation, a large south- ern estate in Logan county, Kentucky, for the remuneration of one hun- dred dollars per year, which was considered fair wages in those days of cheap labor. His services proved so satisfactory his employer offered to in- crease his salary to one hundred and fifty dollars per year if he would con- tinue in charge, but Mr. Price bought forty acres of land, married Febru- ary 10, 1835, and established a home. His wife was Lucinda Hall, whose people were among the earliest settlers in Sussex county, Virginia, and were slaveholders, she receiving two slaves upon her marriage with Mr. Price as a dowry from her father. To their union three children were born, all of whom are deceased. The wife and mother died in August, 1840. His second wife was Frances Jane Weathers, also of Virginia birth, and from one of the pioneer families of Dinwiddle county. Many of her father's peo- ple were in the confederacy, but the maternal side furnished several Union soldiers. Mrs. Price was a near relative of General Albert Sidney Johnson, who was killed in the first day's battle at Shiloh. By this imion four chil- dren were born, two sons and two daughters. The eldest, Frances Ellen, is the wife of Doctor Dabney, of Denver. S. B. Price, whose biography follows that of his father, is the second child and first son. E. R. Price is one of the representative farmers in the vicinity of Hollis. The young- est child, Mary Melissa, is the wife of Fred Kunkle, and resides in Concor- dia. Mrs. Dabney is the original Fannie Price, for whom Mr. Carnahaii named "Fanny" postoffice. Mr. Price was a practical farmer all his life until he retired from labor to enjoy the ease and comfort due a well spent career of usefulness. 346 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. He emigrated with his father's family to Illinois and bought a squatter's right in "Little Egypt," for which he paid one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre, and where he resided until coming to Kansas in 1886. Thus it will be seen Mr. Price was a pioneer of two states and almost three, for Kentucky was yet in its infancy. He first settled in Pottawatomie county, but in 1868 pushed further westward and located a homestead near where the town of Hollis now stands, where he continued to reside until he sold the farm in 1884. Since the death of his wife in 1886, Mr. Price has lived wtih his chil- dren. He is now with his son, S. B. Price, in Concordia, and where likely he will spend the rest of his days. Before the organization of the Repub- lican party Mr. Price was a Whig. He has been prominent in politics and was personally associated with such men as John A. Logan and grows animated as he interestingly converses of the days when Stephen A. Doug- las aspired to the presidency. Those times of anxiety and factional strife seem as vivid in the mind of this aged veteran, over whose snowy head a Concordia Residence of Commissioner S. B. Price. century has almost dawned, as if that memorable period were but yester- day. The fires of enthusiasm kindle within his breast and illumine his countenance as he intelligently narrates the proceedings of the Republican HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 347 state convention held in Decatur in i860, when Richard Yates was nomi- nated for governor of the state of Ilhnois and Abraham Lincoln endorsed for president. Mr. Price was honored hy the appointment of delegate to this distinguished body along with Griffin Garlin and John Russell. Mr. Price is perhaps the oldest Mason in the county, and one of the few in the state who have been identified with the order since 1847. He was initiated into the mysteries of Free Masonry in Bowling Green, Ken- tucky. He has not lost his love and consideration for the order, but declin- ing years do not admit of his attending the lodge meetings. SYLVESTER BAILY PRICE. S. B. Price is another pioneer of Cloud county that has prospered and attained a prominent place in the citizenship of the community. He is a son of James Voss Price, of the preceding sketch and was born in the state of Kentucky in 1845, removed to southern Illinois in 1852, and as stated in his father's sketch, enlisted in Company H, Eighty-first Illinois Volunteer Infantry, August 12, 1862, and served in his country's cause until October, 1864, when he was discharged for disability. His brother, E. R. Price, served until the close of hostilities. They were in the army of the Tennessee, General John A. Logan being their corps commander and General McPherson division commander. He participated in the siege of Vicksburg, Franklin and the R'ed river expedition. They were subsequently transferred to the Sixteenth Corps and ser\'ed in the extreme south. Their last duties in the army were performed at Mobile. Their company was mustered out of service at Montgomery, Alabama, and discharged in Chicago. Mr. Price came with his father's family to Kansas in 1866, and home- steaded land near the present site of Hollis two years later, where he married Miss Isabell S. Powell, formerly of Pike county, Illinois, reared a family of five children and became independent in his possessions of the world's goods. Fannie, their eldest daughter, is the wife of A. B. Cole, a successful farmer living near Hollis. Flora Lillian is the wife of Reed Scott, a contractor of Concordia. Florence Gertrude is the wife of Loren Ashcraft, a railroad man with residence at Wymore, Nebraska. James A., their only son, is employed as clerk in the grocery of Price & Moore. He received a business education and training in the Great Western Business College of Concordia. He is a hard student and to his natural ability Sylvester Baily Price. 348 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. extended travel has added experience which can be obtained from no other course. Blanche, the youngest daughter and child, is aged fifteen years. She is a pupil in the eighth grade of the Washington school. She exhibits a decided talent in music, being especially gifted in that accomplish- ment. Mr. Price retains his old homestead near Mollis, along with two other quarter sections. His land is finely improved, with commodious resi- dence and one of the most modern and complete barns in the country. This valuable estate illustrates much more forcibly than words could do the tire- less industry and excellent management of its owner. In March, 1901, Mr. Price retired from farm life, bought the Haskell residence property on Ninth and Cedar streets and removed his family there. Shortly after this event Mr. Price became associated with A. R. Moore, under the firm name of Price & Moore, and purchased the Key stock of groceries. The principals in this combination are both well and favorably known, and have already built up a prosperous business. During the early settlement of the county the Price family endured all the incidents due to frontier life and for months were in constant dread of the savages whO' committed depredations in near by settlements, but the people of this locality fortunately escaped. The Wards that were massa- cred on White Rock came from southern Illinois, and from the same vicin- ity as the Prices, whose intentions were to join them on the White Rock, but hearing of the Indian uprising along that creek, they stopped in Law- rence township. Mr. Price was on horseback, carrying a plow share to a neighbor one day when he sighted three Indians mounted on their ponies, who were riding rapidly in his direction. The dismayed settler put the spurs to his horse and hurriedly gained entrance to the house of a neigh- bor by the name of Hodge. A moment later the savages came pell mell and suddenly halted at the door. Mr. Hodge had told our subject when the command was given to fire he was to instantly respond. With an eagle eye and quivering with exciteinent, Mr. Price mistook a movement for a signal to fire and brought his gun into position, whereupon Mr. Hodge, with a sudden motion knocked the gun aside. The act was a bit of strategy on the part of the frontiersman, who was familiar with Indian character- istics. They saw the gun, thought there was more in reserve and beat a hasty retreat, as he anticipated they would. During the uprising in 1868, William Christy, a brother-in-law (now of Concordia), loaded their wagons with household effects and started for a place of safety, he and his family going to the Lawrence homestead, where they found Mrs. Lawrence at home alone. His brother, Henry Christy, drove the oxen that were drawing the load of goods and when he reached the vicinity of Upper creek he discovered an object which he felt assured was an Indian, and, believing in the old adage, "He who runs away, will live to fight another day," turned the oxen loose, left the wagon and, with the swiftness of a hunted deer, flew on foot to Lawrenceburg. Upon reaching the Lawrence home he hurried the inmates of the little dwelling HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 349 into a skiff. Mrs. Lawrence, while making her exit, detained the frightened party by sticking fast in the mud. Mr. Christy pulled her out in due time, just as the supposed Lidian rode up with the gun Henry had left on the prairie in his flight, and was picked up by this neighboring settler, who was watching for the appearance or movements of the Lidians from this high point of land. Mr. Price passed through the Otoe village in 1866 and ate dinner with the agent. The camp was deserted, the Indians being off on a hunting expe- dition. They visited the burial ground and found three cottonwood coffins on the top of oak trees. He and his comrades were boys, and, having a curiosity to know if the warriors' guns were buried with them, pried one end of the cofifin off, but found nothing had accompanied the body to the happy hunting grounds. On this same trip Mr. Price and his two companions gave an Indian some tobacco for the use of his pony to ride to Marysville; twelve miles distant. The suspecting savage walked directly in front of them all the way, saying, "White man mean; can't trust him." When they arrived home they found the doors barred, in consequence of what proved to be an unfounded report that the savages were coming through on the war- path, and their reinforcement was gladly welcomed. But when the}- came; the family figured they had been hunted down and run in, as the mischievous boys led them' to believe, and after listening to* their hairbreadth escape, Ed. Powell, a brother-in-law, turned to his wife and hopelessly remarked^ "Well, Margaret, hear that; no use staying here any longer. Let's gO back." This circumstance he was often reminded of later. Politically Mr. Price is a Republican and is one of the county commis- sioners. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and takes an interest in the organization of old veterans. Mrs. Price is a member of the Christian church and a very estimable woman. J. D. FELL. The subject of this sketch, J. D. Fell, came to Concordia about nine- teen years ago in the interests of the Howell Brothers' Lumber Company. In 1881 he removed to Colorado to assume charge of their yard there. They failed in July of that year and Mr. Fell returned and accepted the position that "he has filled with recognized ability for about a dozen years — the management of the Chicago Lumber Company's Yards at Concordia. Mr. Fell is a Canadian, by birth. AVhen four years old he removed with his parents to Ogle county, Illinois, where he received a high school education, alternating his pursuit of knowledge with work on the fai'm, for his father, Erastus Fell, was a tiller of the soil. At the age of nineteen our subject began his career by working in a lumber yard. He was with a firm in Greenleaf, Kansas, prior to coming to Concordia. He has practically grown up in the lumber business and is a valued employe. In social and fraternal orders Mr. Fell is particu- 21 350 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. larly prominent, having made an enviable record, much to the dehght and approval of his brother co-workers. In less than a year after he was initiated into the mysteries of the Knights of Pythias Lodge, he was elected presid- ing officer and served as outer and inner guard of the grand lodge for two years. There was no opposition to his further advancement, but Mr. Fell's duties would not permit of his serving in the capacity of presiding officer, consequently he retired in favor of a brother knight. He served one term as master workman of the Ancient Order of United \Vorkman, three years as master of St John's Lodge No. 113, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, two years as commander of the Commandery No. 42, and during both of these years the commandery ranked first in the state. This honor was awarded -them by Inspector E. W. Welling- ton, their present official, who ranks among the most proficient in the country, Mr. Fell now holds the office of grand captain of the guard in the lodge of the Grand Command- ery. Flis promotion has been rapid, as he has only, been a member of the order about three years. He is also serving at the present time as king of Concordia Chapter No. 45, and royal vizier of the Knights of Khorassan of Concordia. Mr. Fell is also a member of the Order of Elks, Zabud Council No. 4, Topeka, Kansas, Eastern Star, Woodmen, Degree of Honor and Royal Neighbors. Politically Mr. Fell is a Republican. He was elected a member of the Concordia board of education on the independent ticket and J. D. Fell. , served one year. Mr. Fell was married in 1883 to Miss Laura Mahaffey, of Washing- ton county, Kansas, l>ut formerly of Ohio. Their family comprises three' children : Nina, their only daughter, who finished a course in the Great Western Business College, is a stenographer and bookkeeper and is employed in her father's office. Claud and Ralph are school boys aged fif- teen and ten years respectively. Mr. Fell maintains a modern residence at 521 West Seventh street. The character of citizenship that marks the career of Mr. Fell is of the highest type. He is a polished, kindly gentleman, public-spirited, generous and progressive, the sort of man that would make friends anywhere. THE DUDLEY LUMBER COMPANY. The yards of the Dudley Lumber Company were established in Con- cordia by a Mr. Greene, who was succeeded by H. C. Dudley, and subse- quently incorporated under its present title. Owing to failing health Mr. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 351 Dudley returned to his eastern home in the state of Maine and was succeeded by C. W. Browning, who in turn yielded the place to its present manager, S. C. Ainsworth, in July, 1902. The company represent a paid-up capi- "t" ^ t:: ^^^^B jaaaJL T ,. — .^— „- 1 ^^^^1 iBB|W^^^»i,.2M., f fe"! ^ ^?wn S^^^H^K^ i'"^. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^HA <«B^P. r ^m 1 - S^ ib! '^S ^^^ 5 1 f Js ^ M^ ■^•^^;a-"^W^ 1 The Foreman's Corner, In the Business Office. 358 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY. KANSAS. one of the directors of the Kansas Historical Society, in which he and every loyal citizen of the state takes pardonable pride. Mr. Davies' success has been phenomenal. He started in the news- paper business with but two dollars in his pocket, but he appealed his case to the enterprising people of Kansas, to win or lose his small capital — and won. His standing, socially and financially, indicates the verdict. He owns his office, a two-story brick building, ninety feet deep, equipped with the most modem machinery; a farm within a mile of Concordia, and a comfortable home in the city. The birth of Mr. Davies occurred at Pont-y-pridd, Glanmorganshire, A Model Printery. South Wales, January 25, 1855. Mr. Martin says: "One would not think this of him at all, for he is just as rational as though born in Podunk town- ship, Pennsylvania ; Posey county, Indiana, or on the White Rock in Kansas. He emigrated to America in 1863. After a residence of a few years in Pennsylvania he removed to Livingston county, Missouri; but, imbued with the same spirit as many foreign-bom people adopting America for their home, he left the scenes of older civilization and moved further westward, into Iowa, where he lived from 1869 until 1882, when he wisely turned his attention towards northwest Kansas and in 1883 purchased the Republic County News, his first newspaper venture. While editor-in-chief of this paper ]\Ir. Davies was twice elected by the Republican party to represent his HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 359 district, which comprised the north half of RepubHc county, in the state leg- islature, sessions of 1887 and 1889. November 18, 1896, Mr. Davies bought the Kansan and removed to Concordia. He was married in 1879 and his family consists of a wife and seven children. The journalistic career of Mr. Davies is characterized by his sense of discrimination between right and wrong, and his acuteness along these lines is evinced by the abiding good will of the people, who demonstrate their approval by a renewal of their subscription annually. There are few homes the Kansan does not reach. GEORGE E. HIBNER. One of the old settlers of Cloud county is George E. Hibner, who located three miles west of Concordia in 1867, and was the second sheriff of Cloud county, Quincy Honey having preceded him two terms. Mr. Hib- ner served with honor to himself and when his term expired he stepped down and out with the good will and best wishes of the people. He has been engaged in farming since that time (January, 1872,) has prospered abund- antly and is ranked with the best citizens of Sibley township. NADEAU'S SHOE STORE. The above firm, of which the accompanying cut is the interior, is com- posed of the brothers, Joseph D. and H. G. Nadeau, who began business in Concordia in August, 1902, or rather succeeded George Mohr, who estab- Interior of Nadeau' s Shoe Store. Hshed the store in the early days of Concordia and remained continuously until 1902. Their stock is clean and well selected and they are receiving 36o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. what they merit — their share of the trade — for they are energetic and reha- ble men. The Xadeaus came to Cloud county in 1885, and located in Lincoln township on a farm, where they lived until 1900. They are originally from Canada. The senior member of the firm, Joseph D., is a man of family — a wife and four children. The Nadeaus are prominent fixtures and rank with the best and most progressive firms in Concordia RICHARD COUGHLEN. The impressi\'e arch observed over the gateway as one advances near the long avenue, lined by trees, announces the approach of "Prairie Lea," the modern country home of Richard Coughlen. Of the prosperity inher- ited by the settlers of the early 'sixties none are entitled to a more substantial claim than Mr. Coughlen. He came to the vast area of prairie when in its true pioneer state — when on the frontier in the real meaning of the term. He remained all through the strenuous times of its sister- hood and endured years of anxiety ere con- ditions assumed good working order. He came to the state in May, 1862, and pre- empted one hundred and sixty acres df land on Elm creek, built a cabin and lived there seven years. The settlement was comprised of but four families, Hagaman, Thorp, Fenskie and Czapanskiy. In 1870 Mr. Coughlen rented his land on Elm creek, homesteaded on section 26, and later sold the former. Our subject's dreams of broad acres, far reaching in agricultural splendor, herds of cattle and horses, droves of hogs (that when sold upon the market add very materially to his ducats), vast fields of corn, huge bins of ^^•heat and a comfortable, happy home are realized. The Coughlen residence is situated in a bend on the bank of Oak creek and is surrounded on three sides, north, east and west, by the timber of this stream — a charming location. This was one of the first good dwellings in the community, built in 1874. The lumbei- in part was hauled from Waterville, the terminus of the railroad, and a portion was obtained by drawing logs to Concordia and ha^^ing them sawed at Mr. Lanoue's mill. While engaged in this stage of the work Mr. Coughlen found his labors arduous and met with many reverses : among them he was upset in the river while hauling logs, but a ducking was the least of this misfortune. Tlie external membranous covering of his own body was impervious to the waves of the Republican river, but they were demoralizing to the buckskin Richard Coughlen. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 361 pantaloons he wore, which shrunk into so small a compass as to necessitate their being cut from his body. But "it is an ill wind that blows nobody- good." Mr. Coughlen changed the relative position and value of his con- tracted garments by braiding them into an ox whip. Mr. Coughlen is a native of county Kings, Ireland, born in 1838. When a small lad he emigrated to America with his parents and settled in Madison county, New Y'ork, where his father and mother died. Having been left an orphan he subsequently began to roam and resided temporarily in \'arious parts of the United States. He is the second youngest of a family of seven children. Three sisters survive and live in Iowa, Chicago and Streator, Illinois, respectively. Mr. Coughlen came from LaSalle county, Illinois, to Nemaha county, Kansas, in 1859. He and a nephew had started for the famous gold fields of Pike's Peak, but as they encountered the returning crowds, traveling in various modes, walking, wheeling barrows, carts, etc., the fields elysian seemed less alluring, and discouraged many people en route to the Eldorado. When our subject and his comrade arrived at Ft. Kearney they decided to turn their faces toward the new prairies of Kansas, which, if less illusive, seemed a safer proposition, and they retraced their journey over the Little Blue to Nemaha county. From this point the actual career of Mr. Coughlen found its beginning. With "three yoke of oxen he freighted over the plains from the Missouri river to the gold diggings known as "Buck Skin Joe," across South Park, near Hartzell, Colorado, and contin- ued in this intrepid traffic all through and after the war. After coming to Cloud county he made one overland trip; he moved his family to Nehama county to protect them from the Indians and hauled freight from jMissouri to Colorado. During this period- Mr. Coughlen experienced some liair- breadth escapes. In 1865 two men were massacred within one hundred yards of Mr. Coughlen's camp. They were night-herders; the savages shot and wounded the men and then scalped them while still alive. The second boss of the crew had two arrows fired into his body, but recovered. The two victims survived long enough to give the details of the assault. After firing all the cartridges in the chambers of their revolvers the Indians came so close the wounded men threw their guns at them. The band was pursued by soldiers and many of them were killed. Their camp, with its government quota of sixty arrned men was aroused one starlit night on the Platte river by an attempted attack. The mules on the grounds gave evidence of hearing or scenting danger, as the Indians were seemingly after the stock with the intention of running it off. The entire party was ordered to lie close to the earth, a moment later the outlines of the redskins were sighted against the horizon, the signal was given and when the volley of deadly shot and bullets was turned into the advancing band of savages, from shotgims loaded with buck-shot and long-range rifles in the hands of unerring marksmen, they beat a hasty retreat from what was evidenth' one of the most complete surprises they had ever been treated to in their thiev- 362 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ing expeditions. The freighters could not discern their movements through the smoke-laden atmosphere, but hastily reloaded to prepare for the second fusilade if necessary. Many a dead warrior would have been left on the field if he had not been strapped to his pony, as is their custom, that their slain may be carried away. Mr. Coughlen was a member of the Kansas militia and wielded his Springfield musket and Smith's carbine for several years on the frontier. He retains the Remington six-shooter that he car- ried during those days; it is a formidable looking weapon, and he has killed buffalo with it. Mr. Coughlen was one of the fourteen men who were organized to rescue Miss White from captivity among the Indians. Mr. Coughlen was married to Mary Robertson in 1861. Of their four children, all lived to maturity. William Lincoln was deceased at the age- of seventeen years. Jenette is the deceased wife of John Empire; two children survive her, Flo and Clarence. The two living children are a daughter and a son. Lizzie is the widow of William Townsdin, an Oak creek farmer; she is the parent of one child, a son, William Ira. Mr. Coughlen at one time owned two sections of land but he deeded to Mrs. Townsdin one hundred and sixty acres in Osborne county, a quarter section in ^^'ashington county, another near Aurora and one' hundred and sixty acres in the Solomon valley. The son is David R. Coughlen, who was a prosperous Cloud- county farmer and stockman, until compelled to leave the farm and seek returning health in the southern clime of California. In 1884 Mr. Coughlen was married to Miss Eliza Moore, a daughter of William Moore, who emigrated from Vermont to Wisconsin, where Mrs. Coughlen was born. She was visiting a relative in Kansas, where she met and married Mr. Coughlen. She is a refined woman who possesses the admirable trait of making home attractive. Politically Mr. Coughlen is an out-and-out dyed-in-the-wool Repub- lican. He has been identified with the Odd Fellows for a quarter of a century. EDGAR MARTIN KENYON. To the large per cent, of emigrants who came to Kansas without cap- ital and have forged their way to prosperity and prominence, belongs the sub- ject of this sketch, Edgar Martin Kenyon. From the original wilderness of prairie his homestead and possessions have increased until he owns five hun- dred and sixty acres of finely cultivated land, herds of cattle and hogs, a res- idence of modern architecture that would do credit to a city, and barns fashioned after the commodious structures of the east. Mr. Kenyon continues to live on the homestead that has undergone all these changes since he located his claim in 1870. He came to the new west alone, and after building a very unpretentious house and purchasing a sack of flour, for which he paid seven dollars per hundred pounds, the settler, remote from his eastern home and family, was left on the sparsely inhabited HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 363 prairie with but four dollars in his pocket^iis cash capital; but he was not discouraged, felt no reluctance, for he was young, sanguine and ambitious, and believing the future held golden harvests, he spent the summer prepar- ing for the arrival of his wife and son, Orlin (their only child at that time), with a light and happy heart. He secured employment hauling freight at $1.25 per hundred, for Sibley's pioneer merchant, J. D. Robertson. Mr. Kenyon had nothing to lose, but prospered from the beginning, notwith- standing reverses brought about from grasshoppers and hot winds. When bountiful harvests began smiling on their little western home, a substantial and imposing residence sprung into existence and the primitive dwelling vanished. In addition to the spade, the scythe and the plow, with which he carried on farming, his estate is abundantly supplied with every implement known to agriculture for planting and garnering the grain with economy and profit. Mr. Kenyon is a native of Canada. He is a son of Amos and Caroline Cordelia (Blanchard) Kenyon. Amos Kenyon, of Vermont birth and English origin, emigrated to Iowa in 1855, settled in Delaware county, where he died May 5, 1891. Mr. Kenyon's mother was of New York birth; she died in Iowa, July 22, 1889. Mr. Kenyon is one of nine children, seven of whom are living, all in Iowa, excepting our subject and a sister in Denver. In 1868 Mr. Kenyon was married to Miss Cordelia Smith, who was born in the state of New York. Her father, Samuel Hastings Smith, remove'd to Concordia in 1872 and died there in 1900, at the age of eighty-five years. Her mother, who survives him, is also four score and five and lives with her daughter in Concordia. Mrs. Kenyon is a refined gentlewoman. The atmosphere of refinement is one of the fundamental elements often over- looked in the countiy home, but this is not lacking in the Kenyon residence, where everything bespeaks cultivated taste. Mrs. Kenyon taught the second term of school in Joint District No. i. Cloud and Republic counties. She taught one term over the line in Republic county, which was the first school held in Norway township. Mr. and Mrs. Kenyon's family consists, of four children, two sons and two daughters. The two sons, Orlin and Arthur, are prosperous farmers, and are both married. The daughters are educated young women, well qualified for the important positions they occupy. Helen, who is teaching on her second school year at Valley Falls, gradu- ated from the Emporia State Normal in T901, receiving a life diploma. June is a graduate from the Wesleyan Business College of Salina and is employed as stenographer and bookkeeper at the Soldiers' Orphans' Home in Atchison. Politically Mr. Kenyon votes with the Republican party. He has served as treasurer of his district for almost a quarter of a century. The teachers in this school have all been fortunate enough to find a home with the Ken- yons. Socially Mr. Kenyon has been an Odd Fellow for thirteen years and is identified with the Order of Elks in Concordia. 364 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. CHESTER BUTTON. Almost concealed by the overhanging boughs of the surrounding park, picturesquely situated on a semi-circular curve of the Republican river, in the midst of a bower of foliage, where all nature seems hushed to a solemn stillness, except the sighings of the Kansas zephyrs or the music of the birds, that supply an orchestra each hour of the summer days, is the primitive dwelling, which the author will affectionately christen "The Cabin," of that distinguished citizen and pioneer, Chester Dutton. There is no palatial residence, •but the old-fashioned hewed log hotise awakens a train of emotions beyond the power of some stately edifice to impart. Mr. Dutton chose this location because the high, perpendicular banks, cut by the cur- rent of the river, formed an insur- mountable barrier to a sudden at- tack of the murderous Indian bands that roamed along the frontier. The interior of the quaintly rustic home is wholly in harmony with its environments and eloquent in its simplicity. Potted plants adorn the broad window sills, and the profu- sion of books, periodicals and papers reveal the assertion that its inmates are conversant' with good literature. Tradition reveals the original Dutton was a Norman. A country- man from that kingdom once said, the name Dutton was not Norwe- gian, but this- is accounted for by the descriptive title having been given after cognomens were acqui-red. In 1630 John Dutton wandered from the inclosure of the fold and became a Puritan. The greater part of the family are descended from him. Another branch came from John Dutton, of England, who settled in Ches- ter county, Pennsylvania, and purchased six hundred acres of land from William Penn. The subject of this sketch originates from the Puritan divis- ion, seven generations remote in America. An individual, who was gather- ing names of Duttons, had found over two thousand, but among the Chris- tian names of the representatives he had secured there were no Chesters. Joseph Dutton, of the second generation of Duttons, settled on the Connecticut river, in the state of Connecticut, where our subject's father, grandfather and great-grandfather, with their wives and children, all lived, Chester Dutton. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 365 ,and were buried from this same homestead. The two former were born there. Four generations resided there at one time. The estate is still in the hands of relatives, but not a Button. Mr. Button's great-great-grandfather, whose name was Thomas (as the two following were), when a very aged man came to live with his son on the farm. The venerable father longed to visit a son in Vermont, but in those days of horseback travel over mountain- ous roads, the journey proved too arduous for his failing strength and he The Rustic Cottage of Mr. and Mrs. Chester Dutton. did not live to return. Thomas is a family name; the Quaker of that title lived a century and two years. As the Buttons emigrated westward the two families became associated together. The Button ancestors were valiant patriots and served in the Revolution. Mr. Button's three great-grandfa- thers commanded companies — Thomas Button, John Woodworth and Ste- phen Mathews. The mothers of Mr. and Mrs. Button were cousins, hence John Woodworth,, their grandfather, was the great-grandparent of each. The former led a company in the defense of New York city; his son, our subject's grandfather, shouldered a musket and went to war at the age of sixteen years, and was also in the resisting forces of the present great metropolis. The father of our subject was Baniel Punderson Button, a New England farmer, and a brother of the Honorable Henry Button, who was governor of Connecticut and judge of the supreme bench. Ex-Gov- ernor Button's son was killed while leading a charge on a battery in the bat- tle of Cedar Mountain in 1862. Mr. Button's mother was Nancy Mathews. Thomas Mathews, her great-grandfather, was born in 1700. The inscription on the headstone that marks his grave in the ancient cemetery of Watertown, Connecticut, reacts : "He was a magistrate for over fifty years," which would take his service partly under the crown. He died in 1798. 22 366 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Chester Dutton was born March '24, 1814. He is the eldest child and only surviving member of eleven children. They all lived to maturity and all but two reared families. William Dutton, the fifth child, was a West Point graduate, but resigned and followed farming until 1861, when he valiantly led a regiment, commanding a brigade of five thousand New York raw recruits. The brigadier general was ill and the entire command was thrown on Colonel Dutton, the senior officer. The vigorous action involved consumed his strength and he died of fever brought on by overexertion. He ■died in New York city, where he had been brought by his wife, on a boat that was sent up the Chickahominy river. One of Colonel Dutton's closest friends at West Point was "Stonewall" Jackson, who was one degree below him in scholarship. But when war was declared, the two gallant soldiers, who had been comrades and classmates, took up arms against each other, and the ranks of the New England officer were cut to pieces by General Jack- son's regiment. Chester Dutton is the oldest of four surviving members who graduated from Yale College in 1838. His fellow collegiates are Rev- erend \A'illiam Thomas Doubleday, a brother of General Doubleday, of Binghamton, New York, Theodore Sedgwick Gold, who was secretary of the Connecticut board of agriculture from the time of its organization until 1902, and the fourth member Henry Parsons Hedges, of Bridgehamp- ton, Long Island, who is an attorney, a judge, dispenser of the gospel and a farmer. These venerable collegians have all passed the milestone of four score years and all except Mr. Dutton attended the bi-centennial of Yale. The principal ambition of Mr. Dutton's early life was to acc[uire a knowledge of the law. With this ardent desire interwoven and uppermost in his heart, and at the earnest solicitation of an uncle, who thought his kins- man particularly adapted to the profession, our subject entered Yale. But just as he had laid the foundation for the development of his career, the conditions were hopelessly changed, the result of a physical ailment that caused an incurable affection of the throat, rendered him unable to make use of the fine oratorical powers he possessed — one of the first requisites of the advocate in the practice of law. That Mr. Dutton was compelled to resign his chosen pursuit was a painful disappointment is apparent by the shadow that overspreads his kindly face when referring to his blighted hopes. Mr. Dutton was reared on a farm. He taught school both before and afteir his graduation from college. He was principal of the classical department of a proprietary' school in Alexandria, District of Columbia. Mr. Dutton was married in 1842 to Miss Mary Ann Mellen, who was born and reared at \Volcott, Wayne county. New York, where she was mar- ried and resided until coming to Kansas — the only removal they have made during their wedded life. Mrs. Dutton comes from Puritan stock. Richard Mellen was the emigrant ; he came over about ten years after the Mayflower, and settled in Vermont, where Mrs. Dutton's father was born. Her mother was of Connecticut birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Dutton ten children have been born, six of whom are living. Their eldest son is unmarried, and after an HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 367 absence of twenty years in the far western country he returned to the old home and is hving with his parents. Chester and Judson Mellen are twins, born July 4, 1852. The latter married Mary Elizabeth, the only daughter of James Taggart. Their farm is his old home — the original Van Natta homestead. They are the parents of four children. May, Effie, James Lee and an infant daughter. There are thirteen years between the ages of the third and fourth child. John, with his family, lives on an adjoining farm and has the management of the homestead. Henry Lambert Button lives just over the line in Republic county. His wife, before her marriage, was Lucy Dickerhoff, of Maryland. Their family consists of three sons and three daughters, among them a pair of twins, which is remarkable for having been born on July 4, 1882, on the anniversary of the birth of the twins in his father's family, just thirty years prior. Minnie, their eldest daughter, is the wife of William E. Brewer, and they are the parents of a little daughter, Mary Henrietta, aged four. Lucy is the wife of Frank Crosson, a descend- ant of one of the old Dutch families that settled near Philadelphia two hun- dred years ago. Mrs. Crosson has been given a musical education and is an accomplished young woman. Charles William, the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs.- Dutton, is the present treasurer of Dewey county, Oklahoma, and also served two years as county clerk of Cloud county. They ha^•e been unfor- tunate in the death of their daughters. Mary Arnot, whose husband was a son of James Taggart, married and removed to near Knox^'ille, Tennessee, where she was deceased in 1896. Mrs. Taggart taught the first school in the Dutton district. Death had previously claimed another daughter, Julia, the wife of Stiles Platte. She died in Sibley township in 1887. Thomas, a son, died at the age of six years. In 1900 George Dutton was deceased, leaving a wife and four children. The Dutton family is among the most highly esteemed households in the county. The name carries with it a guar- antee of sterling qualities. The sons are all men of honor, industry and pub- lic spirit, always arrayed on the side of right and justice. During the troublesome Indian uprisings Mr. Dutton's keen intuition rendered him a valuable citizen. When they came to Kansas in 1867 their home became a camping ground for the emigrant and the location had previously been headquarters for the Indian. The families were supplied with various kinds and calibers of guns and were prepared to fire two hundred rounds. Had the savages not been aware of their defense they would have been wiped out of existence. Mr. Dutton improvised a dugout to tide them over until they could prepare the logs for a home, but the Indian troubles came upon the settlers and retarded operations, hence they lived there until 1870, when they erected their present quarters. One would suppose the grove of trees, which almost conceals their home, was a natural forest, but Mr. and ]\lrs. Dutton planted them and under their personal supervision the tiny sprouts have grown to towering heights. Personally Mr. Dutton is a man of acute per- ceptive faculties and strong, convictions ; his opinions . command respect from his. friends and acquaintances and are sought in matters of public and pri- 368 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. rate import. He takes a keen interest in all the topics of the past and pres- ent and is a brilliant conversationalist. His countenance glows with kind- ness, amiability and benevolence. He continues to be a close student. . He is rather diminutive in stature, and as sprightly in his movements as a youth. He is a vigorous, polished, comely gentleman of the old school ; his long beard and well crowned head of hair are snowy white, and he enjoys life at the venerable age of eighty-nine years. His personality impresses one with the thought that he might have swung- into the present from another era. Mrs. Dutton is a gentle, refined woman, whose eighty-six summers have set lightly on her brow, although she is practically blind. They are an interesting couple, and happy is the guest who whiles away a few hours beneath their hospitable roof. Although they have passed the milestone of four score years — almost four score and ten — they are not aged, for old age is associated with decrepitness. The relentless hand of time has not borne them down with a weary load of years, for they are as active as the average person at sixty. They will evidently continue in their cottage of the early days until "gathered to their Fathers," in the little cabin so charmingly situ- ated, where the river, as it wanders on, seems murmuring of its peaceful quietude and good will toward men. BYRON M. WIARD. All the various lines of business considered, there is none dearer to the feminine heart than an elegant, well-selected stock of jewelry, all the latest fads and designs like those fovmd in the elegant show cases of Byron M. \Viard's store, or the valuable and delicately chased patterns of silverware exhibited on the commodious plate glass encased wall shelves. It is one of Mr. Wiard's characteristics to recommend only such goods as merit an invest- ment, and this- admirable trait has gained for him the confidence of his cus- tomers and its natural following — a wide patronage. In the watch repairing department he has secured the services of "Billie" Nyman, whose reputation as a jeweler is well established in Concordia. Mr. Wiard originally hails from central Illinois, where he was born in 1856. His parents were Rolland and Mary (Wright) Wiard, both of New York birth. Norman Wiard, manufacturer of the Wiard gun, is a relative. The Wiards settled at Elgin, Illinois, in an early day. Mr. Wiard's father, died in 1875, and his mother was deceased in 1881. Mr. Wiard is a twin, and one of a family of seven children. His twin brother, Myron, is a jew- eler of San Diego, California. At the age of seventeen years Mr. Wiard began his career and after three years in a cigar store with a brother in Wau- kegan, he decided the jewelry business would be more to his tastes, and con- sequently joined another brother in Breckenridge, Colorado, in 1880. Four years subsequently he came to Kansas, when the state was booming and its many virtues being lieralded abroad, and after looking over several probable points he favored Concordia. Of the jewelers who were here at that time Handsome Interior of Wiard's Jewelry Store. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 371 he is the only one remaining. Mr. Wiard has prospered. He erected the building he now occupies, in 1887, a two-story brick, twenty-two by one hun- dred feet in dimensions, but he expects to occupy the spacious rooms where the Kelly stock of goods is being closed out, on Main street, first door east of Layton & Neilson's drug store. Mr. Wiard was married to Miss Ida Wones, a Concordia young woman, who was educated in the convent of the Sisters of St. Joseph. After having spent two years of study in optics Mrs. Wiard entered the McCormick Optical School of Chicago in 1901, and, graduating from that institution in ophthalmol- ogy, she returned to Concordia and established a complete line of optics, in connection with the jewelry store, and has had the entire management of that dqDartment ever since. Dr. Wiard has given a very able series of "Eye Talks" through the columns of the Kansan, describing various defects of that organ, followed by Dr. Ida Wiard. the mode of treatment rec[uired to rectify the deficiency. In former years a woman was seldom known prominently in the professional world, but among instances where- they have succeeded Dr. Wiard is distinctively one of that number, pursuing optics with the greatest efficiency. She is a woman of charming personality, as well as skill and ability, and assuming the responsibilities of a profession have not detracted from her refined womanhood. Dr. Wiard is a member of the American Asso- ciation of Graduates in Ophthalmology. Mr. and Mrs. Wiard are the par- ents of one child, a bright and winsome little daughter, aged nine. ROBERT McLEAN. When the homestead law was enacted and rumors of the wonderful resources of this great western country were carried north, south and east- ward, Robert McLean determined to emigrate to Kansas, and since 1868 this original and interesting character has been making history in Cloud county. He got his first glimpse of frontier life in Meredith township, where he joined his brother, the late Thomas McLean, and later homesteaded a quarter section of land, one mile northwest of the hamlet of Meredith. Instead of leaving the country during the Indian uprising, as most of the settlers did, Mr. McLean sought safer quarters with his brother. 372 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the late Alex, McLean, who bad located just over the line in Ottawa county. He was undoubtedly a welcome visitor, for while his brother plowed corn our subject, with a gtm in hand ready for action, stood as sentinel keep- ing a close vigilance on the developments of savage warfare. Mr. McLean is of Scotch Irish origin, born in the Dominion of Canada in 1848. In 1872 he returned to his former home and was married to Miss Mary Smith, who was also a nati^'e of Canada, born in 1852. After having equipped himself with a helpmate, they repaired to their new western home and in 1874 bought the Morgan Grant stock of general merchandise and Ijrospered as everybody did in those days, who had wares to sell. In 1884 he returned to Canada and secured a farm, but two years later came to Kansas, and bought the same store in Meredith; but again became restless and thought there must be a country more to his liking, consequently sold his store and sent his family to Canada, while he prospected for fairer fields, and, although he spent four years in various parts of the country, including California, so great was his "hankering" to again be a merchant on the broad prairies of the Sunflower state, that a few months later he, for the third time resumed business in the old place. About twelve months later, however, he sold and left the village of Meredith for the fourth and last time. He bought the store of James ' Clithero, of Concordia, and a year later sold his interest to James Hubert Hodge, bought the Murphy home- stead in Meredith township and engaged in the stock business very success- fully. Retaining the farm, he bought the Jake Fetters store located at Hollis, and one year subsequently conducted a general merchandise business in Cuba, Republic county. In 1901 he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land in Sibley township, his present home. A great deal of real estate has passed through Mr. McLean's hands, having bought and sold almost a score of farms. He is now interested in stock and says he is raising "yellow corn and black hogs." He has at present thirty-four brood sows, and buys and sells constantly. In January, 1897, "The Sample Case," a paper devoted to the interests of the United Commercial Travelers, appears the fol- lowing comprehensive "take off" on Mr. McLean, which was evidently written by "A Brother" who saw him as others see him. A WESTERN GENIUS. Away out west in Kansas, two hundred miles or more — Some twenty miles from no place, stood a little country store. And the man who ran the shanty (a Canadian by birth) Just worked the store and people for ail that they were worth. A regular mtiseum, v.'here was kept for sale or trade, A general stock of every earthly thing that e'er was made; Dry goods, bacon, jewelry, molasses, pins and soap. Sulky plows and parasols, tobacco, silk and rope. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 373 Feathers, flour and saner kraut, and calico, and nails, Buggies, beans and baling twine, and needles, knives and pails. He dealt in hogs and cattle, and the various kinds of grain. And he made every edge to cut, did this same Bob McLean. Now Robert was a genius of the most emphatic kind, Just as plain and blunt in manner- as any man you'd find; Was brave and broad and honest, and had within his breast As big and warm and soft a heart as could be found out West. He wore a pair of pantaloons made out of cottonade, A pair of cowhide boots outside, a hickory shirt, home-made, And one well greased suspender held his pantaloons in place. An old wool hat, turned up behiiad, projected o'er his face. But Bob got tired of keeping store, he hankered for a farm — A "c[uarter" of rich prairie dirt would fit him like a charm. And so he struck a granger who was asking for a trade, And hayseed took the yardstick, while Bob shouldered the spade. If any of Bob's hosts of friends should stray out into Cloud county, they will find him husking pimipkins, and as proud of raising hogs and cab- bages and cockle-burs and corn, as any man that's farmed it every day since lie was born. A. Brother. Though a genial, kind-hearted man, Mr. McLean is a little high strung, and viewed from a duelist standpoint, he is rather fierce, as the incident related here implies : The seeds of rebellion had been planted by a preacher of the Free Methodist faith, who had farmed our subject's land and who, it is claimed, was hauling to market more than his share of the corn. Mr. McLean remonstrated with the divine, but his continued efforts were unavail- ing; he remained obdurate, and hot and hotter words ensued until Mr. McLean supplemented his persuasions by letting loose the flood gates of his wrath and transfixing the expounder of the gospel with a slap beside the head with a shovel. But there was an unpleasant sequel to his pugilistic tendencies, for his opponent was in a vindictive frame of mind and did not hesitate to institute legal proceedings against his assailant, and on account of the prominence of the individuals, considerable notoriety was given the afi^air. Mr. McLean was arraigned for assault and battery, found guilty and fined one hundred dollars and costs, which amounted to more than seven hundred dollars — rather an expensive slap. Mr. McLean talks interestingly of the early days in Kansas. He was a true pioneer and enjoyed the wild freedom of the plains. While on a buf- falo hunt his party found the skeleton of a man, and the bones of his ox team, with the wagon which had drawn the luckless frontiersman to his 374 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. death on the lonely prairie, at the hands of some murderous Indian band. They carried away with them the skull and an arrow that held together two joints of the backbone. The family of Mr. and Mrs. McLean consists of seven children. Mark, the eldest son is one of the proprietors of "The Oxford,'' a popular restaurant in El Reno, Oklahoma. He is prosperous and an adept in the business, having been connected wilh prominent places in Denver and San Diego. Mary, the eldest daughter, is the wife of A. Richards, a farmer of Sibley township. Frank, the second son, is of an agricultural turn of mind and the prime mover in farm and stock interests. James, a young man of seventeen years, exhibits special talent for music. Anna, aged fifteen, grad- uated from District No. i6, in 1902, with the highest grades and won three scholarships, namely : Baker, Ottawa and Great Bend Universities. Thomas, their youngest son, was named for his uncle, Thomas McLean, the founder of Meredith and well known to all old settlers of that locality, where his widow, who survives him, still lives. Their youngest child, who bears the good old Quaker name of Prudence, is aged ten. Mr. McLean is a Republican of pronounced type. He is not identified with any denomination, but contributes to the • Catholic church, of which his wife and children are members. Hidden in a bower of trees on a knoll near the center of the farm, a few rods distant from pretty Lake Sibley, stands the pleasant home of the McLeans, where stranger or friend will always find their "latch-string hanging out," for their hospitality is as proverbial as Mr. McLean's individuality. CHARLES DANIEL AVERY. Charles D. Avery, the subject of this sketch, is one of the old residents and honored citizens of Sibley township, who emigrated to Kansas in 1872. The first year of his residence in the state he lived on a rented farm six miles south of Blue Rapids. The following winter (1873) he came to Cloud county and paid John Taggart, a brother of Oscar Taggart, of Concordia, eight hundred dollars for his homestead right and moved his family on the farm, where he continued to reside, and where he has acquired a commodi- ous home, after long years of privations and reverses incident to grass- hoppers, prairie fire and drouth. The former did not damage him as seri- ously as the prairie fire that came in March of that year and burned the corn in his cribs, along with some hogs. In scorching the latter, forty or fifty little motherless pigs were more or less ruined ; a new harvester, for which he had just paid one hundred and twenty-five dollars, his new wagon, fan- ning mill, wheat and oats in the granary; all were consumed and the house only saved by the most strenuous efforts. This was a serious loss to a man just starting in a new country and several hundred dollars in debt, but upon this foundation Mr. Avery has gained a competency and a desira- ble home. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 375 ]\Ir. Aveiy is a native of Niagara county, New York, born in 1839. He is a son of Daniel and Almeda (Lewis) Avery. His father lived in Ver- mont, the place of his nativity, and that of many generations of Averys until after his marriage, when he removed to the state of New York, where he resided until his death in 1880. He was a blacksmith and farmer by occupation. Mr. Avery's mother died in i860. Our subject is the second youngest child in a family of thirteen children, only one of whom besides himself is living. Mr. Avery was reared in the family of a paternal aunt and drifted away from the hearthstone of his parents. When the contest between the north and south was inaugurated, Mr. Avery joined the Twelfth New York Lidependent Battery Light Artillery, with its quota of one hundred and twelve men under Captain W. H. Ellis. He enlisted November 20, 1861, for three years, and when his time expired re-enlisted and demonstrated his patriotism by serving until the close of hostilities. His company were in the front rank at the battle of the Wilder- ness and Shelton Farm. They had four guns taken by the enemy at Jerusa- lem Plank Road. They participated in the engagement at Ream's Station, one of the hardest fought small battles in the history of the Civil war. While they were stationed at Fort Haskell in front of Petersburg a shell was sent in their midst. They saw it advancing and as they dodged behind various places of protection the iron sphere exploded, sending its missiles in every direction, but fortunately no one was hurt. Mr. Avery was slightly wounded from the explosion of a shell. The soldiers were quartered in a bomb-proof retreat where they slept. It was a sort of dugout. The earth was excavated to a depth of five feet and covered with dirt, well packed down. Each apartment consisted of four bunks, with three men to each berth. Mr. Avery had been doing gxiard duty and had repaired to this place of safety for a few hours' rest and sleep. He had just retired in one of the bunks, when with a terrific noise a shell of about sixty pounds weight came crashing through. As it exploded he was struck on the wrist, which cracked the bone and disabled him for duty for about five weeks, but instead of going to the hospital he remained in the battery. Mr. Avery, with two cousins, were comrades, all going into the service and returning together. Their company was under the charge of three different captains. The first was discharged for disgraceful con- duct; the second was George F. McKnight, and he was succeeded by Charles A. Clark. The two latter were from Buffalo, New York. Soon after the war Mr. Avery settled in Jackson county, Michigan, where he was married to Miss Mary E. Wilcox in 1867. To their union seven sons and three daughters were born, viz : Charles Avery, their eldest child, is a well known photographer of Concordia. Several illustrations in this volume show the excellent character of his work. Arthur, whose personal sketch follows this of his father. Lewis is a farmer of Sibley township. Myrtle is the wife of John Taylor, of Sprague, Nebraska. Guy is a jeweler of Hanover, Kansas. Cecil, who was recently married and \i\ts on the home- 376 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. stead. Lulu is the wife of William Clark, a prominent and well-to-do young farmer of Sibley township. Ralph, a young man of twenty, who is teaching his first term of school in district No. 95. He graduated from the Great ^^"estern Business College in 1902. Roy, the youngest son, is aged six- teen and Juanita, a little daughter, aged eleven. Mrs. Avery, who was a very estimable woman, was deceased in May, 1894. The Averys are highly respectable people, as well as prosperous. They are members of the Method- ist Episcopal church of district No. 95. Air. Avery is a Republican politically and has held various township offices. He is an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic. WILLL\]M LAYTON. AVilliam Layton, an enterprising farmer of Buffalo township came to Kan- sas as early as 1863, when the state was designated as "bleeding, suffering Kan- sas," and settled in Nemaha county, near the Brown county line. He freighted in 1865 from Nemaha county to Fort Collins, over the unsettled plains when the mail was carried from Atchison to Denver, Colorado, in stage coaches. Marysville, Kansas, was about the size of Jamestown, and Beatrice, Nebraska, could not boast of much more than a dozen houses. Possessed of the restless spirit that pervaded most men at that time, IVlr. Layton sold the land he bought in Brown county, and in 1873, in com- pany with his brother, pushed westwarcf into Cloud county, where he bought the relincjuishment of Charles H. Salters. They were visited by a heavy rain soon after moving into their new charters — a combination dugout and log hut with dirt covered roof, which was practically dissolved and washed away under a three days' pouring down of the elements. They spent six weeks in that abode, and as if to make it more uninhabitable the place was infested with myriads of fleas. The house was then enlarged by adding a few logs, covered by a shingled roof, and pronounced one of the best dwellings in the country; not without a little sarcasm, perhaps, for the settlers began to feel a little envious of the new comer who located in their midst and did a little too much "fixin' up." Although Mr. Layton has experienced numerous discouragements, withstood two grasshopper raids — for the one that visited Nemaha county in 1866 exceeded the ravages of this insect in Cloud county in 1874 — he is loyal to the state, came to stay and does not regret it. Taking his own experiences as a basis, he asserts anyone coming to Kansas with a stock of perseverance and well directed energy, can make a success, and also con- tends when all the advantages are considered there is no better country on earth. ]\Ir. Layton's farm consists of three hundred and twenty acres. For several years he carried on diversified farming, but of recent years he has gi\en his attention to wheat raising and the growing of alfalfa. One season he had a tract of two hundred acres that yielded twenty-eight bushels of HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 377 wheat per acre. He has a field of fifty-five acres of alfalfa and considers this one of the best crops grown in this part of the country, from a financial standpoint. Mr. Layton has an interesting war record. On January i, 1862, he enlisted in Company H, Thirty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry, and served until the following September, when he was discharged for disability, occasioned by a gunshot wound received in the evening of the first day's fight at Shiloh. His right arm was broken, but with his left he picked up his gun, resolving he would not leave it for the rebels. He also received a gtmshot wound in the thigh and still carries the ball. Duiing the few months he served in the army he was taken at a rapid gait and experienced hard fighting. After the battle, our subject was numbered with the slain, but instead of being dead, he, with others, were thrown into a cotton gin, which was converted into a temporary hospital, its puncheon floor strewn with wounded soldiers. Had he been left there for any length of time, Mr. Layton would have succumbed, for his wounds were of a dangerous char- acter. But a boat came cruising down the Ohio river for the purpose of rescuing the boys of the "Buckeye"' state who were in the improvised hos- pitals. Realizing that a little strategy meant salvation for him, Mr. Layton feigned he was from that commonwealth and was tenderly carried on board. Upon arriving at Cairo, he acknowledged the deception, revealed his iden- tity and beat his way home on a train. But his ardor had not cooled, and as he. stood watching the soldiers marching to the front great tears would well up in his eyes because he could not join their ranks again. The Thirty- second was a depleted regiment. Every commissioned officer went down in the first battle of Shiloh; also every non-commissioned officer with the exception of two. The regiment was almost exterminated, but Mr. Lay- ton's brother, Preston, came through without a scratch. Mr. Layton was a sufferer from his wounds for a period of fifteen years. Just after the close of the war our subject was married to Mary Good- pasture, whose father, John Goodpasture, was one of Nemaha county's pio- neers, having settled there as early as 1859. He had sold his farm in Illinois during the war, but the parties to whom he sold were unable to meet the payments and the property reverted to him. Later on he returned to Illi- nois, where he died in 1891. The Goodpastures descended from an old Holland family. Mrs. Goodpasture's maiden- name was Emily Long, and she was of southern lineage. Mrs. Layton was a small child when her mother died, and she was reared by a step-mother, who is still living. Mrs. Layton is one of six children, four of whom are living: Mrs. Jobe, of Prescott, Arizona; Mrs. Sarah McCarthy, who resides on a farm near Jack- sonviUe, Illinois, and Samuel Goodpasture, of Concord, Morgan county, Illinois. To Mr. and Mrs. Layton five children have been born. Their eldest child and only daughter married Robert Jones. She was a woman of gen- tle, attractive character, and her death in January, 1902, was mourned not 378 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. only by her husband and family, but by a large circle of friends and acquaint- ances. George, their eldest son, is a successful business man and a mem- ber of the firm of Layton & Neilson, druggists, Concordia. Their second son, William Waldo, died at the age of six years. John M. and Roy B., the two younger sons, are practical farmers. In 1884 Mr. Layton erected a handsome two-story residence of nine rooms, and in 1892 a fine basement barn. Anxious to have their home sur- rounded by a grove of trees, Mr. and Mrs. Layton planted six hundred box- elders, and many of these are living. Later they planted elms, ash and cedars with good results. While they were planting the switches that later developed into trees, their little family of children, now grown to manhood, watched the proceedings through the windows. Mr. Layton is a man esteemed for his sterling worth of uprightness. His career has been one of industry and perseverance, and his methodical system of farming has brought its returns in the development of a beautiful country place, where, surrounded by his excellent family, he enjoys the fruits of his labors. Socially, he has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows about twenty years, and also belongs to the Grand Army of the Republic. Politically, he is a staunch Democrat. WALTER SCOTT FOSTER. Among the young men of Concordia who are fitting themselves to suc- ceed in business enterprises on their own responsibility, as numerous others have done, is Walter Scott Foster, a trusted employe in the drug store of W. F. Neitzel, a position he has occupied for three years. Mr. Foster has not always been engaged in this capacity, but learned the harness trade in Scotland, his native country, and was in the employ of Thomas Lamay, of Concordia, for two years. Mr. Foster is one of nine children bom to George and Hannah (New) Foster. The late John New, one of Clyde's old residents, was an uncle of our subject, having been his mother's brother. Mr. Foster's father was ^ formerly a druggist and chemist and owned a drug store in the city of Hull. He was. also in the civil service for about fifteen years as revenue collector, but on account of ill health is retired from a business career. Mr. Foster has two brothers in Kansas and one in Missouri, but the other members of the family are in England. Mr. Foster was born in Scotland but is of English parentage. When Walter Scott Foster. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 3; 9 a youth his parents removed to Yorkshire, England, where they still reside. Socially Mr. Foster is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America. He is a member of the Episcopal church of England. Mr. Foster is an ambitious young man, for ^\•hom it is not improbable the future holds marked success, for he is honorable, trustworthy and capable — qualities never over- looked in the business world. ARTHUR AUGUSTIN AVERY. The subject of this sketch is one of the prosperous sons of Charles D. Avery, of the preceding sketch, and one of the most well-to-do farmers and stockmen of Sibley township. Mr. Avery was born in Jackson county, Michigan, near the town of Parma, in 1870, and was but two and a half years old when the family emigrated to Kansas; hence he is practically a product of the state. He was educated in the old Sibley school house. No. 16, on the original Sib- ley townsite, and taught school for three years, two years in Lawrenceburg and one year near Aurora. With the exception of this school work he has always been a farmer. Mr. Avery was married in 1895 to Miss Mary Anna Iverson, a very deserving and amiable young woman whose parents were old settlers in Sibley township. She is a daughter of the late Louis and Christine (Han- son) Iverson, who homesteaded section- eleven, the farm where Mr. and Mrs. Avery now live. The Iversons were of Danish birth. Her father was torn in Schleswig-Holstein, March 28, 1827. He was a seafaring man for some years, making voyages from San Francisco around to Cape Horn. He subsequently located temporarily in California and engaged in the allur- ing occupation of gold mining, owned valuable properties and acquired a fortune, but lost the greater part of it in unwise speculation. After his wealth became shattered he gathered the fragments of his successes together, and acting upon Shakespeare's lines, "There is a tide in the affairs of men. Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune," he came to America, sanguine that good results would yet follow his under- takings. He made two trips across the United States and had selected a site near Omaha, Nebraska, for a home, but fell in company with some of his countrymen in Junction City, who were coming to Cloud county, Kansas. He joined them, established a home, returned to Denmark and married. Mr. Iverson prospered in Kansas and founded a permanent home where he died, surrounded by the 'comforts of life, July 19, 1899. Mrs. Iverson was born in Denmark June 12, 1846. She was deceased March 1868, leaving two daughters. Two sons were born to their union, both of whom were deceased in early youth. Ida Christine has gained prominence as an educational worker and a 380 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. teacher of music. She is now pursuing a classical course in Stanford Uni- ^-ersity. The rudiments of her education were acc[uired in joint district No. I, Cloud and Republic counties, and she taught two terms of school before going to California eight years ago. She was one of a party of tourists who visited the Paris Exposition, including a trip to Austria, Ireland, Eng- land Scotland, Germany, Italy and many other places of interest. Her present aim and ambition is to complete a University course as a means of obtaining higher and more responsible positions. ;\Irs. Avery was educated in the home school and is possessed of con- siderable talent in both music and art. She is a woman of many admirable qualities, and the interior of their home suggests the refined taste of its matron. After the mother's death, Mrs. Avery was her father's house- keeper. To Mr. and Mrs. Avery two children have been born Lloyd Law- rence and Helen Christine. Aside from the homestead Mr. Avery owns four hundred and forty-four acres of fertile bottom land along the Repub- lican river that is in a highly cultivated state. He keeps a herd of about one hundred and twenty-five head of native cattle and has a pasture of eighty acres along the river. He raises on an average over one hundred head of hogs and has made his money in stock. Like most of the farmers along the Republican he raises corn and ships it in the form of cattle and hogs. Mr. Avery has enlarged the residence, built commodious sheds and otherwise improved the homestead. From one of his adjoining farms Mr. Avery sawed thirty thousand feet of cottonwood lumber from a grove and avenue of trees that have sprung up into giants within a little more than a quarter of a century. Politically Mr. Avery is a Republican. He has been treasurer of the school board for five years. Mr. and Mrs. Avery are among the representa- tive people of the copimunity, are members of the district No. 95 Methodist Episcopal church and associated with all worthy measures for the improve- ment of the locality in which they live. WILLIAM BAKER WILLIAMS. William Baker Williams, better known to Kansans as "Greenback Will- iams," is one of the characters of Cloud county. When he came into the community in 1878 the currency question was at its zenith and he was an ardent "Greenbacker." There were four individuals in the vicinity of his home who bore the name of Williams. They were about the same age and were christened with similar initials. All these "Williams" received their mail through the Concordia postoffice, and to designate him from the others of like cognomen, and in accordance with his aithusiastic interest in the finan- cial question, he was given the sobriquet that made him famous. He is known far and wide, his name often appearing in the eastern papers, giving descriptions of him and his surroiuidings. A new York paper recently pictured him as an eccentricity living on an island in the Solomon river. Since HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 381 the currency question is a dead issue he votes the Sociahst ticket. He has always been on the side of reform and his persistent views have been widely commented on. Though on the unpopular side politically, Mr. Williams is highly esteemed by his neighbors and is a good citizen. He was born in Muhlenburg county, Kentucky, February 13, 1834. He received' a limited education in his native state, but in his boyhood days the public school system was not what the bright boys and girls of to-day are favored with. To learn to read, write and spell, and perhaps "cipher" a little, was considered an accomplishment for a country bred boy. His parents were William and Lydia (Studebaker) Williams, of the same lineage as the noted wagon manufacturer. Our subject's paternal grandfather, also William Williams, was an American born and a soldier in the Revolu- tionary war. He was one of a family of twelve sons and one daughter. They all arrived at maturity, but during the Revolution became separated and lost to one another (although he was the only patriot of the family) and many of them were never reunited. "Blue Jeans" Williams, of Indiana, a noted politician and attorney, is of the same ancestry. He was a bright man in his day, but eccentric. He insisted on wearing blue jeans long after that particular weave was out of date. This and other peculiarities won him the title that was never dispelled. Mr. Williams' father was a South Carolina planter and a slaveholder. He disposed of his slaves in 1847, but some of the family held them until the rebellion. The sentiments of his people were divided and represented both sides. His paternal ancestors were of Welsh origin, but as most Amer- ican born people whose forefathers settled in this country, he is a mixture of several nationalities — Welsh, English, .Scotch and German, the latter predominating, perhaps. When nineteen years of age Mr. Williams located in Woodford county, Illinois, where he worked on a farm until the winter of 1855, when he was married to Miss Esther Arrowsmith on the 24th day of December. She was a young English woman who came with her par- ents to America when she was twenty years of age and settled in Illinois. After the war Mr. Williams removed to Buchanan county, Missouri, where he resided tmtil 1870. In July of that month he located in Jewell county, Kansas, and homesteaded land. After a happy wedded life of thirty-six years Mrs. Williams died Augu.st 23, 1891. To their union thir- teen children were born ; seven lived to maturity, two- sons and five daug'h- ters, all of whom are married and have families. The two sons and one daughter are in Cloud county, two daughters in Nebraska and one in Iowa. A young German woman who was orphaned when a child, lives in the fam- ily of Mr. Williams, who was administrator of her father's estate. There were two sisters, Amelie and Martha. They were bathing in the river when the latter got in the water beyond her depth and was drowned. She was aged ten years. Mr. Williams was married May 19, 1892, to Mrs. Maggie Harrison, of Jewell county, who is a most estimable woman. In 1877 Mr. Williams 382 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sold his farm in Jewell county and bought the original homestead of W. C. Williams, who contested the right to the claim, taken back in the 'sixties. He has placed all the improvements on the farm, which consists of one hun- dred and twenty acres in Buffalo township, five miles west and three and one-half miles north of Concordia. A commodious residence, substantial barns, orchards, a well kept blue grass lawn and fine shade trees; an ideal home, where Mr. and Mrs. Williams, who are praiseworthy citizens and neighbors, can spend their declining years, surrounded by many comforts. EDWARD ]MARSHALL. The subject of this sketch is Edward Marshall, now of Barnard, Lin- coln county, Kansas, but for years one of the best known and most highly respected citizens of Cloud county, both socially and politically. Mr. Mar- shall is a native of "Merrie England," the land that has sent many of her stalwart sons and daughters across the blue waters of the Atlantic to assist in making this great commonwealth one of the foremost aimong the nations of the world. Mr. Marshall was born in 1843, and Avhen a youth of twelve summers emigrated with his father's family to Nova Scotia, and two years later to W^isconsin, where he recei^'ed a common school education, and ^\•hen but eigh- teen years of age responded to the call of his adopted country for men and enlisted in Company H, First Wisconsin Lifantry, serving three years under the dis'tinguished General Thomas, in Sherman's army. After he was dis- charged he returned to Nashville, Tennessee, just as Hood made an attack on that city, and Mr. Marshall was commissioned captain of A company in the quartermaster's forces. He remained one year at Nashville, but finding himself at a disadvantage and unpopular because of his northern proclivi- ties, he returned to his former Wisconsin home and bought an interest in i stage line. Four years subsecjuently he removed to Dodge Center, Dodge county, Minnesota, where he, with other interested parties, established a grain, livery and implement business. During most of this time he served as city marshal. In 1872 he emigrated to Kansas and located in the unset- tled territory now included in Oakland township, which Mr. Marshall helped to organize in the summer of 1874. It included thirty-six sections of land, or six square miles. Here Mr. Marshall took adavntage of his homestead right and filed on one hundred and sixty acres of "Uncle Sam's" broad domain. He did not need to sing with the poet any more, "No foot of land do I possess, a pilgrim in the wilderness." Everything had a thrifty appear- ance and Mr. Marshall wanted quality rather than quantity, and so did not use his soldier's right and pre-empt a quarter section. This year was fol- lowed by drouth and grasshoppers and he witnessed the Arcadia transformed into a fruitless desert and underwent the hardships and discouragements of the average settler. Entering upon a political career, he left the farm in 1885, but retained his land until 189S. In 1895 Mr. Marshall was elected HISTORY OF, CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 38^ to the office of sheriff of Cloud county on the Republican ticket. The tem- perance question was before the people at this election and Mr. Marshall promised if elected he would close every saloon in Cloud county. This prom-> ise was carried out within four months after he took his office, the saloon interest being completely routed. He was re-elected two years later and the joints and saloons under his jurisdiction suffered severely. In 1898, when he sold his fann, Mr. IVIarshall engaged in mercantile pursuits in Concor- dia. One year later he removed his stock of goods to Barnard, where, asso- ciated with his son J. C, they are doing a prosperous business. His Stock' consists of a full line of merchandise and in connection they handle the Deer- ing goods and do a large trade in the implement lijie. They do business under the firm name of Marshall & Son. Mr. Marshall was married in Ravenna, Ohio, in 1868, to Mrs. Eliza- beth Hart. To this union three sons and t\\ o daughters were born. The eldest son, J. E., is traveling salesman for a Topeka paper company ; J. A. is editor and publisher of the Jamestown Optimist ; J. C. is associated in: business with his father ; Ada is employed as saleslady in the general mer- chandise store of Scott & Lintz, of Concordia, and Lida is house- keeper for her father, the mother having died in 1888. ]\Irs. Marshall was. a member of the late President Garfield's church at Ravenna. She was a cultured woman and to her counsels her children doubtless owe much of whatever honor or success they may attain. Mr. Marshall is a member of the Christian church, while his children attend the Baptist church. MRS. HILDA ELFSTROM. The subject of this sketch is Mrs. Hilda Elfstrom, of Arion township, whose experiences in life are marked by accident and coincidence, but she has gathered up the scattered threads of destiny and woven them into a beautiful combination. The woof of the busy shuttle in the loom of life is not always smooth and fine, or rose-colored in its hue. "Mistakes she made not few, yet wove perchance as best she knew." Mrs. Elfstrom is the widow of Gustaf Elfstrom, who came to Kansas in 1869, and settled on a homestead, their present farm in Arion township.- Mr. Elfstrom was born in the central part of Sweden in 1840. His original name was Alonson. His father died when he was a youth and his mother married a man by the name of Elfstrom. According to an established rule of that country a student whose name ended in "son" could not be admitted, consequently when Gustaf Alonson entered the Lund LIni\-ersity, where he graduated at the age of nineteen years, he adopted his step-father's name. He has two half-brothers, one of Avhom is very wealthy, being proprietor of a drug store in Stockholm, valued at eighty thousand dollars. The other brother lives on the old estate in Sweden. Mr. Elfstrom began his career as first mate on an American vessel and for several years following was a seafaring man. He was in New Orleans when 23 384 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the south seceded and was filled with a desire to enter the army, but Captain Waite fell ill and Mr. Elfstrom, at Captain Waite's earnest solicitation and offer of a lucrati\e salary, became commander of the latter's vessel, remain- ing in that capacity for three years, sailing from Calcutta to New Orleans. His life at sea was an eventful one and during the ten years thus passed he experienced two thrilling ship wrecks. While on the high seas enroute from Calcutta to Australia they, came in contact with a pirate vessel, and at once raised the American stars and stripes, while almost simultaneously the rob- bers hoisted the black flag, and both ships prepared to make ready for war- fare; but the plunderers' force was inferior and they withdrew. Mr. Elf- strom's vessel carried cargoes to Melbourne, Australia, and while in the city he and some friends went out with a guide who conducted them into the midst of a band of brigands. Mr. Elfstrom was a linguist and spoke Italian and French and several other languages fluently, and in this way discovered the plot, revealed the scheme to his comrades, overpowered the freebooters and made their escape. Mr. Elfstrom finally grew tired of adventures at sea. He had read in the papers and various other literature that was scattered broadcast over the land, of the fertile fields of America, and more especially of the new state of Kansas, and of the productiveness of her vast acres that could be secured for a mere pittance — a land of promise where things grew without cultiva- tion. With these alluring prospects he gave up his life on the "briny deep" and sought a home in the far, far west. About the same time Mrs. Elf- strom's father decided to build a home for himself and family in the far- famed western country, and the two men. met injunction City, the destina- tion of many home seekers at that time. In company with a guide, the tourists who were destined to later become mutually interested, journeyed together looking over the country in quest of homesteads, and upon arriving in Arion township they found their goal, the end of their final purpose. Mr. Elfstrom secured the homestead where his family now live and his wife's father, Carl John Reymers, filed on land four miles further north. Mrs. Elfstrom did not come with her father's family to their new home, but remained at Fort Riley in the family of Colonel Hamilton, that she might learn to speak the English language. Her father died the following autumn, September 15, 1869. A letter sent to Mrs. Elfstrom, apprising her of her father's death did not reach her for two weeks, but Colonel Hamilton sent her home under an escort of six sol- diers and a sergeant. Soon afterward Colonel Hamilton was ordered by President Grant to change his quarters to Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis. and Mrs. Elfstrom accompanied them, and through -this association she gained an English education. Mrs. Elfstrom's place of nativity is Stock- holm, S\\'eden, where she was educated in a private school and under a gov- erness in her father's home. The Reymers were of German origin. Her great-grandfather settled in Sweden, where he died, leaving a large estate which became involved in litigation and was lost to her father, who was an HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 385 intelligent and well educated man. He was an extensive faiTner in Sweden and operated a brickyard and a tannery. She has two brothers who reside at Grant's Pass, Oregon, and are prosperous men — Napoleon, a fruit grower and shipper, and Victor, a gardener. Mr. and Mrs. Elfstrom were married in Clyde, Kansas, in 1870, editor J. B. Rupe performing the ceremony. Their early married life was spent in a log house, but they had some finance and were comfortable, happy and sanguine of the future bringing them merited returns. Owing to the grasshoppers, the drouth and the high price of provisions, they saw their means vanish like snow under the rays of a warm sun, and like all the settlers of that period, they were reduced to very economical living, but by constant and assiduous labor, coupled with frugal domestic management, they had acquired a comfortable home, when, in 1880, the husband and father, in the prime of his full manhood was cut down by the "grim reaper." Mr. Elfstrom was a powerful man and his love for sport frequently induced him to compete with his comrades and friends in a test of strength. On the fatal occasion which caused his death, several members of a: thresh- ing crew who were at a neighbors, engaged in pulling "hand-holds" and Mr. Elfstrom was matched against Julius A. Belo, another man of great strength. The strain of this test produced the rupturing of a blood vessel and he died as a result. Mr. Elfstrom was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, a rare conversationalist, spoke several different tongues, and hav- ing had early educational advantages, was a fine scholar, and through the knowledge gained by extensive travel in various parts of the world he pos- sessed a broad fund of general knowledge. Mrs. Elfstrom kept her little brood together, and although she met with many reverses, has been rewarded with prosperity. In 1883 they erected a large stone residence, one of the best in the vicinity, which was destroyed by fire the following year. With the assistance of neighbors and kind friends they built a small frame building. There were discouragements, but her boys were growing strong each day and the school of industry in which they were reared made it possible for them to manage the farm work early in life and as they grew to manhood, better days dawned until now they occupy one of the most beatitiful country homes in the community. The sons are practical farmers and stockmen and are adding other lands to the homestead. Evar, the eldest son, bought eighty acres adjoining in 1897, and in 1901 he purchased one "hundred and sixty acres near Maceyville. Harold, the second son, owns a quarter section in the same' locality. The brothers also rent land and are extensive wheat growers, having on an average two hundred and sixty acres. They have made their money raising wheat, cattle and hogs. Besides the two sons mentioned, fhere is a third, Emile, who, like his brothers, is an industrious young farmei". The daugh- ters, four in number, are prepossessing and refined yotftlg women. Annie is married to James Johnson, and they are the parents of three children, Ralph, Hilda and an infant. Olga is the wife of Frank' Moore, by whom 386 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. she has had two Httle daughters, Alhe and Myrtle. Florence is the wife of Arthur Spicer; she was a student of the Concordia High school one year. Alice, the youngest daughter, is ;inmarried and lives at home. The children have been educated principally in district No. 17. Thomas Malone was the first teacher of this district and taught the term preparatory to drawing the state fund and was paid in pork, flour, sorghum and sundry other articles. All three of the sons-in-law are farmers of Arion township. The Elfstrom boys are all Republicans of staunch tendencies and are sober, honest and trustworthy young men who will make life a success. ^Irs. Elfstrom is not a woman given to extravagant expenditure, but her home is one of comfort and suggests a peaceful, happy abode. Per- sonally she is gifted with a bright intellect and is a woman of education and accomplishment. JOHN H. ASHLEY. The subject of this sketch, John H. Ashley, came to Kansas in 1879, and bought one hundred and sixty acres of State Normal school land in Buffalo township for a consideration of eight hundred dollars. Mr. Ash- ley possessed but little capital other than courage and industry, those important factors essential to success in Kansas and from these accessories he has built one of the best country homes in the county. Mr. Ashley came from the state of Michigan, where he had followed the occupation of farm- ing. He chartered a car through to Concordia, shipping a team of horses, about a year's supply of provisions and being in a timbered country, he had lumber on hand which was also brought through in the car. This they used in building their first residence, a house sixteen by twenty-four feet in dimensions, one and one-half stories high with boards up and down and a barn of the same architecture. A brother-in-law, the Honorable S. C. \\'heeler, had preceded them and through his glowing description of the state and its possibilities Mr. Ashley was prompted to follow and has not regretted the A'enture. He has been prosperous from the beginning, although he has met with some reverses, prominent among which was the burning of his barn in 1880 by prairie fire, including a year's supply of corn for feeding purposes. Mr. Ashley's paternal grandparents were Leonard and Sally (McDougal) Ashley, of Canada. His parents were James andj^olly L. (Magee) Ashley. His father, the Reverend James Ashley, a Free-Will Baptist minister, was born in Toronto, Canada, November 18, 181 5. In the year 1826 the fam- ily emigrated to Huron county, Ohio, where, amidst advantages and disad- vantages, the boy who had not yet attained his majority developed into man- hood. His father was a farmer and unable to give his son superior edu- cational advantages, apprenticed him to a blacksmith that he might weld a li\elihood out of that avocation. At the age of fifteen years he was con- verted to the Baptist faith and in 1841 began a successful ministerial career. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 387 He was an earnest advocate of Christian principles and his sympathy, affa- bility and colloquial gifts, attracted all classes of people. New fields were opened, churches instituted and the Seneca quarterly meeting- organized, where most of his pastoral and evangelical work was done and inuch good accomplished. In 1855 he removed to Cass county, Michigan, where the remainder of his useful life was spent, laboring there for more than twenty-five years. During this period he preached twelve years in Sumnerville and in the meantime traveled a distance of eighteen thousand miles. In 1869 he was elected to the legislature, but would not consent to a second term because of the crookedness and corruptness of political affairs. He died March 23, 1882. Polly L. Magee was of Scotch ancestry and by her marriage \\ith the Reverend James Ashley she became the mother of twelve children. Our subject was born in Huron county, Ohio, in 1842 and was mar- ried in 1864 to Harriet Stephens, a daughter of David R. Stephens and the granddaughter of Lyman Stephens, who settled in Cass county, Michi- gan, in 1835, having emigrated from Orteida county. New Yctfk, via the Erie canal to Buffalo and thence to Detroit by boat, where they procured an ox-team, traveled overland and settled in Cass county. Mrs. Ashley's father was af that tim€ thirteen "years of age and drove a "breaking team'^ for the compensation of twerity-five cents per day. The state at this time was new and their place of abode was a cabin roofed with bark peeled from the trees with which it was densely surrounded. Their woi-dly possessions consisted of a yoke of oxen, a wagon and twelve dollars in cash, but they went bravely to work and with strong arms and willing hands transformed the wooded land into tillable and cultivated ground. During the first win- ter five hundred Indians camped near their house but were of a peaceable and friendly tribe. Mrs. Ashley's' father was a successful farmer and, with the exception of one, the oldest settler of Mason towftship, Cass county, Michigan. He ran a thfeshing machine fof more than twenty-four years and purchased the first grain elevator in that locality. In 186^7 he brought the second portable steam engine into the county. He died in 1896, one year following his golden wedding, lea^'ing a wife who still survives and lives on the dd homestead in Michigan, where all her married life has been spent. Before her marriage she was Ellen E. Roberts. The two sons, George L. and John L., both reside at the old homest^d. To Mr. and Mrs. Ashley four children have been born, viz: Arietta May, the eldest daughter, is the wife of Lee Judd, a carpenter with resi- dence in Oakland, California. Frank W., the eldest son, was married to Atha Gilbert, a daughter of J. H. Gilbert, who settled in Cloud county in 1883, and nine years later moved to Oklahoma, where he still resides near Hitchcock. Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert were both teachers, the former having taught between twenty-five and thirty years and is well known in the schools of Cloud county. Frank W. Ashley owns eighty acres of land near his father's place. The second son. Will S., is unmarried and assists his 388 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. father on the farm. Mary LeEtta, a promising young girl of fourteen years, is at home. Mr. Ashley served the last ten and one-half months of the Civil war in Company C, Second Michigan Cavalry, under Captain H. L. Hempstead and Colonel Johnson. During this time he saw active service and was in the battles of Franklin and Nashville. He was promoted corporal about a week after enlisting. His company won laurels during their brief exist- ence as the recruits of Company C, which was organized in 1861. During his war experience Mr. Ashley had two horses shot from under him. From the original little box house erected at the time of locating in Cloud county a commodious residence of nine rooms has grown, sur- rounded and enhanced by a luxuriant grove composed mostly of box-elders. Under the cooling shadows of these trees the old veterans and members of the Grand Army of the Republic of Concordia assemble annually to rehearse experiences and extend the hand of fellowship to old comrades. Mr. Ashley follows diversified farming and also gives considerable atten- tion to fruit growing, and his prosperity is the result of his well-directed energies. He is a public-spirited man, a. staunch Republican in his political views and takes an interest in everything pertaining to the promotion of all worthy causes. Mrs. Ashley is a woman of refinement and has been a true helpmate to her husband, assisting very materially in acquiring their pres- ent competency. The Ashley home is one of perfect harmony. Frank W. and his wife, since their marriage of ten years ago, have lived at his father's home as members of one family, hence, instead of losing their son they gained a daughter. THOMAS B. HOLTZMAN. r T. B. Holtzman, the subject of this sketch, came to Kansas in 1873, without capital but with an abundance of that goodly heritage, pluck and enterprise. He began life on a farm in a very humble way, having lived in a dugout for three months. He then built a one-room house known as a "box house," paid seven dollars per thousand for the shingles and hauled them fifty miles. Mr. Holtzman was single at that time — when girls were at a premium. His father filed on land adjoining and a few years later they built a comfortable stone house on his homestead. Mr. Holtzman is a native of West Virginia, born on a farm in Preston county in 1849. His parents were John and Hannah ( Trowbridge) Holtz- man. His father's birthplace was Maryland, but early in life he removed with his parents to West Virginia. John Holtzman with his family emi- grated to Missouri in 1871, and- two years later to Kansas. He died in 1892, at the age of sixty-two years. The Holtzmans, as the name implies, were of German origin. The Trowbridge ancestors were an old English family and settled in Virginia in an early day. His mother died in 1885. Mr. Holtzman is the only living child of a family of three children, the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 389 other two having died , in infancy. Mr. Holtzman and his father , bought twenty-five head of cattle and a yoke of oxen. This purchase consumed all their capital, but their stock increased year by year until now he owns two hundred head which is one of the finest bred Shorthorn herds in the state. He has raised many hogs, marketing several car loads per year, often netting him twenty-five hundred dollars annually. In 1893 his hogs brought eight cents per pound; He gives considerable attention to fruit raising. Mr. Holtzman's farm is a sort of market, as he buys, much of the surplus feed that is raised in his neighborhood. He also raises horses and mules and has some fine stock in that line. Mr. Holtzman is an extensive land owner. In 1882 he bought forty acres adjacent to his original- claim from the -proceeds of a load of hogs. In 1894 he purchased two hundred ■and forty acres lying one and three-cjuarters miles south and one-half mile west of his homestead, and in 1893 inherited his father's land. In 1901 he bought - three hundred and thirty acres of land in Lawrence township, a fine ■ property with one hundred and twenty-five acres under cultivation, watered by never-failing springs and intersected by Salt creek. Mrs. Holtz- man homesteaded land which she still retains. It is situated opposite the home place. They own a total of eleven hundred acres of valuable land. This estate has by the magic hands of industry become one of the most admirably conducted farms in Cloud county and yields a handsome income. The buildings of .this fine country place all indicate there is a thorough and practical farmer at the helm; In 1882 Mr. Holtzman erected a handsome modern dwelling of nine rooms, surrounded by a well-kept lawn and located on one of those high points that afford a commanding view of the surround- ing country for many miles. A year later he erected a commodious barn. Mr. Holtzman was married in 1877 to Maggie, a daughter of San- ford and Mary (Patterson) Halbert. Her father was an old Virginian, born in 1808, and came to Kansas with his family in 1871, and filed on land near the Holtzman homestead, where he died in 1893, at the age of eighty- seven years.' Her mother was born in Pennsylvania in 1812, and died at the age of thirty-six years. Mr. and Mrs. Holtzman are the parents of two children, the eldest is a son, Homer, who is interested with his father on the farm and gives prom- ise .of becoming like his sire, a success in life. He has been educated in the home district and one year in the Salina Wesleyan College. The daughter, Mae, a bright- and promising young girl, is a student in the Great Western Business College of Concordia, taking a commercial course. She also pos- sesses a good deal of musical talent. Mr. Holtzman is in sympathy with the Republican party and works for its principles. 'Charles kristofferson. The subject ■ of this sketch, Charles Kristofferson, more commonly known as "Ericson," which is his Swedish cognomen, according to the custom of that country, deserves a conspicuous place among the old settlers 390 HISTORY OF GLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. who have risen from poverty to opulence. From a. poor, penniless youth, a foreigner comparatively friendless and alone in the world, he has become the owner of one of the finest estates in Cloud county, and a good sized bank account. Mr. Kristofferson is a native of Sweden, born in 1847. His father had secured employment for him on the railroad section in advance of his emigrating to this country and his employer forwarded money for his pass- age over, the amount to be reser\-ed from his wages. Upon coming to America, in 1869, he first settled in Iowa and the following year came to Cloud county and homesteaded his present farm in Meredith township. In Sweden he occupied a position with a Swedish nobleman but was required to dress in livery. His wages were low and he saved nothing of his earn- ings. His father is Eric Kristofferson, a farmer, and preceded his son one year to America and two years later came to Cloud county and took up a homestead adjoining his son's. The old dugout he occupied is still standing and in a good state of preservation. He is now retired and is living in Con- cordia, at the age of seventy-eight years. His grandfather and great- grandfather were farmers in Sweden. His mother was Johanna Jenson and died when the subject of this sketch was thirteen years of age, leaving three children, one of whom beside himself is living, a brother, Eric Ericson, a stone mason of Concordia. He also homesteaded a place in Meredith town- ship, the farm now owned by Peter Johnson. Their father has buried four wives. By the third wife there is one daughter, Minnie Kristofferson, aged fourteen years. Mr. Kristofferson worked as a day laborer on the Union Pacific Railroad then in course of construction through Nebraska, and wit- nessed the first train that passed over that road to San Francisco. In 1872 he worked on the Kansas Pacific and saw the first train that ran from Kan- sas City to Cheyenne. He had only money enough to pay for his homestead right; no team, no stock nor implements with which to work his claim; but his hopes were buoyed up by the thought that some day he would be able to see the unculti^'ated fields yielding crops of golden grain. This vision of the future filled him with hope and with a light heart he worked by the day until he had earned a yoke of oxen. Before he had secured a team he had occasion to go to Solomon City for a supply of provisions and to procure a breaking plow to use when able to hire his neighbor's oxen. In the mean- time he liad improvised a cart from the hindmost wheels of a wagon. With tlijs vehicle he started from home, after eating an eleven o'clock meal, walk- ing and pulling the cart all the way to Solomon City, arriving there by nightfall. He secured his plow, a sack oi flour and a few other of the nec- essaries of life and the next afternoon started homeward over the roadless prairies, hauling the cart. He had hoped to find, some settler who would be traveling in his direction that he might attach the vehicle, but none com- ing that way he left on Monday afternoon, gohig as far as Minneapolis, where he stayed over night. He had provided himself with a lunch for his noonday meal the next day and started on his journey before dawn. The HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Vji day was hot and dusty and he was footsore, thirsty and weary. Fancy his chagrin and disappointment when preparing to rest and enjoy his kmch to discover that it had been stolen by some culprit the night before in Minneapo- lis: but he was more fortunate than the day previous and got a ride part of the way. Mr. Kristofferson was married in 1875, and lived in a dugout for six years, where their first three children were born. He now owns five hun- dred and forty acres of wheat, corn and pasture land, and raises and feeds from eighty to one hundred head of cattle. He is grading his herd of short- horns into Hereford breeds. He also raises a great many hogs. In 1880 he built a handsome two-story residence of seven rooms. He has good barns, his buildings are all freshly painted and has ample sheds and shelter for all his stock. The west branch of Pipe creek runs through his farm and furnishes wood and water. This farm is one of the most finely cultivated estates on Pipe creek. Mrs. Kristofferson was Agre Lena Peterson. She came to Chicago from Sweden when twenty-nine j'ears of age and one year later to Kansas, where they were married. They are the parents of five children, four of whom are living. Hannah Mary, wife of Alto Bergstein, a farmer of Ottawa county, near Delphos. Adolph, the eldest son. is a .student of the Commerciai Col- lege in Concordia. He graduated in the common branches in 1898. Hulda Josephine, wife of Frank Hounte, a farmer living near Delphos. Edward, the youngest son is aged nineteen. Mr. Kristofferson is a citizen who votes for whoever he thinks is the best man, but rather leans to the republican side. The family are members of the Lutheran church, but in the absence of a congregation in their neigh- borhood, they are attendants of the Methodist Episcopal church at Bethel and New Hope. Their family of children have had good educational ad- vantages and the daughters are both accomplished in music. The Kristof- ferson residence is surrounded by a beautiful lawn, and having water for irri- gating purposes, is set with flowers and shrubs of many varieties. NATHAN DOAK. Nathan Doak, the subject of this sketch belongs to that class of men that every community needs more of. Though not exercising an outward show, greatly benefits others within the range of his influence, and those who know Mr. Doak best speak most enthusiastically of his good qualities. He visited Kansas while in the employ of the government, removing the Sac and Fox Indians to the Creek Reservation in the eastern part of Indian Terri- tory. Attracted by the possibilities of the great future for the state of Kansas he came to Cloud county, the following year, 1869, and homesteaded land in Arion township; he hewed logs, manufactured shingles, and built the best house above ground in the community. Mr. Doak was born in ^Vest \^ir- 39^ HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ginia, fifty-two miles from Parkersbnrg, on the Ohio river, in 1840. He lived in the place of his birth until he entered his country's service in August, 1861. He enlisted for three years in Company C, Seventh West Virginia Infantry. He was in the hospital from a flesh wound received in the battle of Chancellorsville, and was off duty from May until the following Sep- tember, and consequently was among the supernumeraries who were. mus- tered out when his regiment was consolidated. They were under Colonel Joseph Snyder, and were constantly engaged in active service, operating principally in East Virginia. They took part in the battle of Gettysburg, Antietam, where his company lost heavily, Fredericksburg and many skirmishes. Mr. Doak enlisted in this company as a private and was pro- moted to Orderly Sergeant. In ..September, 1864, he re-enlisted in Com- pany C, Sixth West Virginia Infantry, under Captain Josiah Bee. He was elected Sergeant and later promoted to Second Lieutenant, receiving his commission just at the close of the war. Mr. Doak's paternal grand parents came from Ireland to Pennsylvania, where his father, Hiram Doak, was born, and after his marriage with Eliza- beth Joseph, also of Pennsylvania, they settled in the part of the state since named West Virginia, where our subject was born. He Avas one of eleven children, seven of whom are living. His brother Almarine, was killed in the battle of Martinsburg, Virginia. George W., whose sketch- follows, is a brother. There are two brothers and a sister in Osborne county-, a sister in Nebraska, and Mrs Charles Dotson, of Concordia. In 1873, Mr. Doak married a young woman who was reared in the vicinity of his Virginia home. She is a daughter of Zachariah 'Dotson, who diecb in 1863. The Dotson's were an old Virginia family. Her mother before her marriage was Eliza Eddleblute, a native of Pennyslvania. Mrs. Dotson was a A'ery remarkable character, she came with her family of chil- dren and took up a homestead in Arion township in 1871. She was born iii March, 1800, and died July 26, 1899. Her life was a long and eventful one and had she lived until next March, would have been a centenerian. She was born one hundred and seventeen days after the death of -George Washington, and while Governor Adams was President of the young Repub- lic, which then numbered but sixteen states. Since then the nation has been involved in eight wars, twenty-three presidents have been installed, and of that number, twenty have passed into the unknown realms. During her thirty-seven years of widowhood, she had lived with an adopted daughter that she had taken in her heart and home when an infant but five months old. Between this child and her foster mother, a remark- able attachment developed. This daughter, Ellen Moran, is now living with Mrs. Tmesdell, of Concordia. Mrs. Dotson was the mother of eleven children, the grand-mother of forty-seven children, and seventy-six great grand children. Three of her sons fought for their country and remained with the flag until the last. Three of her daughters married military men, soldiers of the Civil war. She sheared the sheep, spun the yarn, wove the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 393 Cloth and made it into garments for her children, thus within a few hours converting the raw material into clothing. She was a woman of far more than ordinary intellect and in her old age conversed intelligently of the prog- ress made and genius developed within the years of her eventful life, retain- ing all her faculties to a wonderful degree. To Mr. and Mrs. Uoak five children have been b'orn. Their eldest child v.-as the late Minor Doak, deceased September 8, 1902, at his home in Arion township. He was but twenty-eight years of age, a young man in the prime of life, honored and esteemed in the community, and his death was the occasion of universal sorrow. A wife and two children survive him. Maud, the oldest daughter, is the wife of Urey Pitts, of Woodward, county, Oklahoma ; Eliza, Eva and Walter. Mr. Doak is a republican politi ■ cally and works faithfully for the principles of this party. He is a member of the G. A. R., Concordia Post. Mrs. Doak is a member of the Christian church, Range Line congregation. Mr. Doak and his excellent family are interested in all educational and worthy enterprises, contributing liberally to the support of eveiy cause pertaining to the good of their community. Mr. Doak's farm consists of one hundred and sixty acres of fine land, and he occupies a pleasant cottage home with his estimable wife, daughters and son. Mrs. Doak is a noble, motherly woman, retaining the true southern hospitality that more than a quarter of a century of western life has not obliterated, that gives one the assurance of a hearty welcome. GEORGE W. DOAK. The subject of this sketch, G. W. Doak, one of the enterprising and honorable citizens of Arion township, town seven, is an old pioneer of Kansas. He first settled in Osage county, and with his brother assisted in moving the Indians to the Creek reservation. In June, the following year began a residence in Cloud county, filing on the homestead where he now lives, before he had gained his majority. Mr. Doak is a native of Virginia, born in 1849, ^"d possesses the true southern hospitality. (For ancestry see sketch of Nathan Doak.) Mr. Doak is altogether a self-made man. He had but .$2.50 left after filing on his claims. The first few years he lived in a dugout and subsisted principally on game. He has feasted on many juicy buffalo steaks. He owns at the present writing, two hundred acres of finely improved land. Ash Creek and a small branch of Wolf creek run through his farm. Mr. Doak gained his present good financial circumstances by raising, feeding and shipping cattle and hogs, but the last few seasons has turned his attention largely to Avheat grow- ing. He has one of the best residences in the township, a commodious, well built eight room house. Mr. Doak was married in 1876, to Alice E., a daughter of Alfred and Elizabeth (Garner) Dotson. The Dotson's were old settlers. They came to Cloud county in the early part of the year, 1870, and settled on the west 394 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. branch of Wolf creek. They recently sold their land, retired from farm life and are living in Concordia. Mrs. Doak is one of a family of six girls and four boys. Two sisters are in the western part of the state, a brother and .'•ister in Clay county, and the rest of the family reside in Cloud county. The Dotsons are of old Virginia stock. Mrs. Doak's grandparents from lx)th sides of the house emigrated to Kansas, and both died in Cloud county. Her father was a soldier in the Civil war, a member of the Fourteenth Virginia. To Mr. and Mrs. Doak three children have been born, viz : Watt V., married Ora Bevin, a daughter of Lafe Bevin, one of the old residents of Arion township. Watt V. is a farmer and owns land adjoining his father on the west. He graduated from the Concordia high school in 1898. Daisy J., is a student of the Concordia high school. Nellie, is the wife of S. M. Steele. Mr. Steele bought a portion of his father's original homestead and is a farmer. Mr. Doak's political views tend toward populism. He has served as trustee of his township for several years. He is a member of the Select Knights of Concordia. When Mr. Doak came to Cloud county and filed on his government land it was rather a desolate otitlook — a wild unbroken prairie as far as the eye could reach, but he set energetically to work and conquered the hard- ships which strew the pathway of the early settlers in any country, and has made for himself and his family an enviable home, where surrounded by peace and plenty he can enjoy the fruits of his labors. He is one of the most esteemed and useful citizens of the locality in which he lives.. JULIUS ALEXANDER BELO. J. A. Belo, a representative farmer and stockman of Arion township, has achieved the competency he possesses by his own efforts and labor, and there is scarcely a day that he does not devote himself to toil; yet he is never so much engrossed or too busily engaged to meet friends or strangers with a courteous and hospitable bearing. He is a farmer of lifelong experi- ence and began his career as foreman of Robert Stewart's extended farm in Buchanan county, Iowa, in 1876. In the spring of 1878 he emigrated to Kansas and settled temporarily in Mitchell county, near Cawker City. In July of the same year he rented a farm in Cloud county, and the following autumn homesteaded forty acres of land adjoining his present home place. A year later he bought seventy acres one mile south, known as the Everett homestead. In 1887 he sold these two tracts and bought the farm of two hundred and eighty acres where he now lives, and which he put under a good state of improvement. In 1 88 1 he proceeded to build a comfortable six-room residence and a small, but well-built, barn. He has considerable fruit, including apples, peaches, pears and grapes. His chief farm products are wheat, corn and oats. He keeps a herd of from fifty to eighty head of nati^-e cattle, among which are HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 395 some graded Polled-Angus, and feeds from fifty to one hundred and fifty fine-bred Jersey Red and Poland China hogs. In tlie summer of 1884 Mr. Belo farmed two hundred acres of land that was planted in corn; fifty acres of this grovmd grew corn that yielded eighty bushels per acre; on the two hundred acres he had a total yield of eleven thousand bushels. The shellers bid one cent per bushel, and at that fi.gure their bill footed $110. The corn marketed from eighteen to twenty-three cents per bushel. In 1901 he had a field of wheat containing sixty acres that threshed twenty-eight bushels to the acre. Mr. Belo was born on a farm near Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in December, 1856. He is a son of John and Henrietta (Trebom) Belo. John Belo was born in Germany in 1837, emigrated to America in 1855, and settled in Wisconsin. In 1861 he emigrated with his family to Iowa and bought tim- bered goveij'nment land in Buchanan county for one dollar and a ciuarter per acre, which he cleared and improved and where he still lives. Mr. Belo is one of ten children, five of whom are living: Our subject; Edward, a stone mason of Jessup, Iowa; Lena, wife of John Metchmier, a grain dealer of Jessup, Iowa ; John ; and Telia. J. A. Belo was married in February, 1881, to Susanna (Burns) Sheri- dan, the widow of Thomas Sheridan. She was born in Ireland, came to America with her parents when a child and settled in the state of New York. Mrs. Belo died April 13, 1884, three years after her second marriage, leaving one child (and three by her first husband), John Edward, who is interested with his father on the farm and is a young man of good edu- cation in both English and German. In 1889 Mr. Belo was married to Mary Ann Driscoll, a native of Vermillion county, Illinois, and a daughter of Cornelius Driscoll, wlio became a farmer of Arion township. Cloud county, in 1878. Her parents were both of Irish birth. Her mother's brothers. General Humphries and Major Humphries, were distinguished offi- cers of the English army. Mrs. Belo's father was found dead from natural causes March 3, 1896, in the field where he was herding horses. Her mother died in May, 1900. Mrs. Belo is one of seven living children, all but two of whom live in Cloud county. Mr. Belo is a Populist, but formerly voted the Democratic ticket. He 1ms served several successive years on the town- ship board. Himself and family are members of the Concordia Catholic congregation. ORGANIZATION OF THE CLYDE TOWN COMPANY While Clyde did not receive a great spontaneous growth so common to some new towns, its present proportions surprise the expectations of the little company of men that gathered in the old log store room of Herman & Davis to consult over the propriety of starting a town. A locality so in- viting surrounded by a rich and magnificent country convinced these citi- zens that a town of more or less importance was bound to spring up in some near locality. The only wonder is that the project was not begun sooner. Among the chief obstacles to overcome was the fact that the people in the vicinity were not of a speculative mind, most of them having come with the avowed purpose of homesteading claims by which they could acquire farms and they were generally poor; so much so that they could not even enter- tain tlie idea of buying land for a town site. Something must occur to con- vince them that such an action was almost imperative. To F. B. Rupe, the honor must be given for leading this enterprise. Early in September, 1866, Henry Simmons and William Peters came to Elk creek with a small stock of goods and desired to establish a business and intimated if there were a town-site the}' A^ould build at least two houses. This seemed a gigantic thing — two houses, in addition to Cowell & Davis' store — and the fine, new school house, woidd give it quite aii appearance, and it spurred them to ac- tion; but they were doomed to disappointment, so far as the two houses \\ere concerned, for Cowell & Davis bought the interests of these two men. However, the sensation had ^the desired effect. F. B. Rupe consulted C. J. Cowell and concluded to call a town ineeting the next day, which was on the 6th of September. The meeting at first seemed a demoralized affair, with no general understanding. Some would talk encouragingly about the prospective town, others the reverse, and for a while it seemed the meeting was destined to be a failure. T'he Fowler boys returned to their home, dis- gusted, before the meeting was called to order, declaring "there would be no meeting, and no town." After much cogitation, F. B. Rupe, Edward Neely, A. W. Smith, B. V. Honey, William Page and J. B. Rupe associated them- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 397 selves together in the storeroom of Cowell & Davis and prepared for action. On motion of A. W. Smith, Edward Neely was chosen chairman. The main object was a bargain with W. H. Page for the land. F. B. Rupe asked what he would take for it, whereupon Mr. Page replied, "If I sell it for a town site I will have to have a pretty price for it — $300 is my price." He had no sooner said this than F. B. Rupe remarked, "We will take you Up." The tract of ground consisted of forty acres, and the company were rather surprised that Mr. Page considered this a big price. The hardest part being disposed of, a few regulations were agreed upon. One was that this $300 should be divided into ten shares, making $30 to the share. The first original shareholders were A. W. Smith, Edward Neely, F. B. Rupe, J. B. Rupe, Lew Fowler, John Fowler, Dave Heller, C. J. Cowell, Charles Davis and B. V. Honey. Others were added to the town company, some thinking it best, to lessen the amount for each share, by making more stock- holders. The ground was government land owned by W. H. Page as a homestead, and before much could be done it had to be proved up on, and the government paid. Luckily F. P Rupe had a forty-acre land warrant which he handed over to Mr. Page and which satisfied the government for one-half the eighty to be proved up on to secure the south half. F. B. Rupe says he is out the amount of that land ■\\'arrant. Of course the members of the company did not think they were such swindlers; but if it is true Mr. Rupe has reason to congratulate himself for contributing so much to so grand a result: This meeting had the effect of breaking the ice. There was no trouble in selling shares, as everybody seemed to have faith in the enterprise. Another meeting was held on December 11. The land was deeded and steps taken toward an organization. The first permanent of- ficers were Quincy Honey, president; B. V. Honey, vice-president, John B. Rupe, secretary, and Charles Davis, treasurer. That an organization for a town site company had to be effected through a statute of the state, with a regular charter did not occur to these people. It was something beyond their comprehension and if it had been known, perhaps no one living m the county could have indited or written one. Not being a corporated body, and not understanding its powers, they were at a loss how to receive the deed from W. H. Page. To help them out of this dilemma a conimittee of three, consisting of F. B. Rupe, Charles Davis and W. H. Page, was ap- pointed to make arrangements whereby the land could be secured to the town site company. The meeting then adjourned until Tuesday evening, De^ cember i8th. At this meeting it was agreed that three persons, consisting of J. B. Rupe, Lew Fowler and Charles Davis, should receive this deed. In this manner the first town-site company of Cloud county was organized. The whole transaction from beginning to end was illegal, but so long as the company, and seemingly everybody else were unconscious of the unlaw- fulness, people bought and sold stock without making any further inquiry. The town was given the name of Hamilton. One writer says it received the name of Shirley, but J. B. Rupe, who is responsible for the items of this 393 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. data, asserts this is a mistake. The name was changed to Clyde some time in the spring of 1867. At this meeting a motion was carried by which it was thought the name was invahdated and necessitated balloting again, when Hamilton was disfavored and not proposed again. B. V. Honey proposed the name of Clyde, Charles Davis favored the name of Elkhart, but a ma- jority declared in favor of Clyde. By many it was supposed Mr. Honey proposed the name of Clyde at the instigation of David Turner, or that he must have had the town in the state of Ohio by that name in view. Air. Honey revealed the fact later that neither was the case. He happened to see that name in a newspaper, was pleased with the appellation and suggested it for their new town. When the name was proposed, Mr. Turner re- marked, "That is the name of a river in Scotland,"' which perhaps was the first that any of the company knew, excepting Mr. Turner himself, that this was the name of a Scottish stream. In all probability, from those circum- stances must have originated the idea, that the town was named after that river. John Fowler was the only man that even favored the name of Shir- ley, but did not propose it, it being known at this time that an opprobrium had been attached to this name. EARLY CLYDE HISTORY. In looking up the history of Clyde we find like all new towns it is not without its failures. Its business men did not all succeed, nor did they all by any means fail. Those who have achieved success have not done so with- out energy, enterprise and strict application to business. The store of Cowell & Davis was the oldest establishment in northwest Kansas, west of Clay Cen- ter. They became associated together under the firm name of Cowell & Davis in January, 1866. At this time the entire town-site could have been bought for a mere song, and the building of their establish- ment was not very extensive in dimensions; their entire stock finding ample room in a structure 14 by 18 feet. In May of the same year, Mr. Cowell's interest was pur- chased by R. F. Herman, who added a little more capi- tal and the concern became so important in the autumn of 1867, they erected a build- ing 24 by 50 feet. With such rapidity did their business increase that the following year they were compelled to enlarge these quarters and a building 24 by 50 feet was added, giving them a store room of 48 by 100 feet. In 1872 Mr. Davis Clyde in 1871. HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, ^ANSAS. 399 purchased Mr. Herman's interest and carried on the business for many years with an immense increase of trade. In August, 1 87 1, F. K. Teeter who died in 1901, opened a stock of gen- eral merchandise and commanded his share of pubHc patronage which rapidly increased with the population. In 1871, W. Burkall opened an extensive grocery store. In, January, of the same year, A. G. Dersey opened a gro- cery and feed establishment. Mr. Dersey is one of the few pioneer mer- chants who still hold forth in Clyde. His business now consists of a stock of general merchandise. T. T. Chinnock was the next merchant to locate. He opened a st6re in Clyde in 1872. He started on a somewhat limited capital, W developed a into a well selected stock of boots, shoes and groceries. In 1872, Bartlett & Crump opened a hardware store, the latter still doing business in Clyde, the former on the retired list. In July, 1872, J. H. Hufif's furniture store opened and did a successful business, also carrying a line of undertakers goods. In June, 1873, E. Gardner, who is still a resident of Clyde, but re- tired from business, established a general merchandise concern, and P. McDonald operated a drug store. M. Heller & Co., in October, 1873, erected a handsome building and launched out in general merchandising. In the latter part of 1873, H. A. Dobbs opened a general store with a tailoring department, and about this time James Mcintosh opened a stock of drugs and groceries. A picture gallery by Garraway & Taylor was established and several other interests of more or less importance, among them the Clyde Hotel, by J. H. Huff, and the Michigan Hotel, by S. E. Stilson, both of which were prosperous. H. Fisher, harness maker, L. M. Rockwell and J. Fred- erick, blacksmiths, the latter is still a resident of Clyde. GENERAL GROWTH OF CLYDE. A more desirable city than Clyde could not be found, situated as it is on the banks of the Republican river, in a perfect bower of beautiful shade trees, and in the midst of one of the most magnificant farming countries in the world, it offers superior advantages. Unlike most western towns, Clyde never actually "boomed," but has experienced a steady and healthful growth. Prior to the building of the Central Branch Railroad through Clyde, in 1877, the growth of the town had been slow, but within a few years from that per- iod the population increased from a few hundred to eighteen hundred people. In 1885, there was more money expended in building than any previous year in the history of Clyde, and added much to the general appearance of the city. In this year, James Turner bought a small wooden structure which he displaced and erected a large, handsome brick building, filling it with fur- niture. Phillip Longton and A. G. Dersey put up a fine brick building. 24 400 HISTORi" OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. These men exhibited a truly commendable public spirit for the upper story Avas con\-erted into a capacious hall, 44 by 80 feet, which has served Clyde -well as an opera house, being fitted with all modem improvements and many good troupes have been attracted there in consequence. Mr. X. Manna erected on the east of this, another substantial brick structure which fiilled up the last vacancy in that block. G. W. Knapp proved his strong and abiding faith in the future of Clyde by adding a large brick addition to his livery stable. The same year, Dr. Ransopher erected a splendid brick building for a drug store; 1885 was the prosperous year and saw many improvements in Clyde. Clyde's city waterworks-. Cl)^de's standpipe system furnishes an abundance of pure water and an adequate supply for protection against fire. It was established in the winter of 1886, through tlie issuing of $2,600 bonds, voted by the city of Clyde. There are about four miles of pipe, ranging from ten inch down to two inch pipe, and thirty-five hydrants. The standpipe is one hundred and nine- teen feet high from the surface at the base, or one hundred and sixty-iive feet above the le^^el of AVashington street. The pipe when full, carries seventy-one pounds water pressure, has a capacity of one hundred and seventy thousand gallons, and is twelve feet in diameter. The waterworks are equipped with two Dean pumps and two boilers, one compound duplex boiler, with a capacity for fourteen million gallons per day; one duplex fire pump, capable of producing five hundred thousand gallons per day; one Spring^field heater and one duplex boiler feed pump. The water is furnished from an open well thirty-five feet deep and twelve feet in diameter. In connection with it is a six inch pipe put down through the center of the well, to the second stratum of water, which is at a depth of one hundred and twenty-eight feet, giving a very strong, inexhaustable flow, one which never varies. The appliances of the power house are modern through- out, and the other perquisite, a skilled engineer, is supplied in the person of J. L. Doster. The power house is an imposing one-story brick structure, 40 by 60 feet in dimensions, beautifully located just over the Elk Creek bridge at the foot of Washington street. It is surrounded by a fine lawn and forest trees. CLYDE POST OFFICE. The present mail facilities of Clyde, as contrasted by those of the days of "Uncle Heller," Clyde's first postmaster, illustrate the progress of the little city of Clyde. Since "Uncle Heller's'' reign there have been in turn the following postmasters : W. F. Beatty, E. T. Peck, Arthur Cornforth, E. R. Debray, G. W. Knapp, J. J. McFarland and the present postmaster, Sid- ney H. Knapp. None of the above number were more proficient and oblig- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 401 ing, or more systematic in the handling of the mails, than the present in- cumbent. These qualifications doubtless secured his re-appointment in 1902. Postoffice Inspector Rush D. Simmons, during his recent examination, pronounced the Clyde postoffice one of the best managed in the state. How- ever, Mr. Khapp must not claim all the honor, for no inconsiderable amount is due ^Irs. Knapp, his capable wife, who has charge of the detail work, and his gentlemanly and accommodating clerk, Ross Queen. The cash re- ceipts for sale of stamps, box rent, etc. for the year 1901, amounted to $3,820.24, which gives the postmaster a salary of $1,500 for the next year — the salary of his predecessor for the last year, 1897, being only $1,100. This growth in postal revenue evidences the fact that the commercial interests of the city have increased. Of the eight rural free-delivery routes in Cloud county, S. H. Knapp secured three, which were established in 1901. They are as follows: Route No. I, running north to Brantford and return, covering a distance of 27 miles, R. E. Stimpson, carrier. This route collected 536 pieces of mail matter and delivered 5,262 pieces, a total of 5,798 during the month of January. Route No. 2, crossing the river and going south to St. Joseph and Como, is 27J4 miles in length. Carrier, Anson Woodruff. This route collected during the month of January, 663 pieces and delivered 4,068, a total of 4,731. Route No. 3, running west to Lawrenceburg and return, covers a distance of 28 miles, C. M. Parker is carrier. He collected during the month of Januarj', 529 pieces, delivered 5,319, a total of 5,848, making a total of 16.377 pieces handled in the one month on the three routes. All of the above carriers are veterans of the Civil war and old residents of Elk township. Route No. i is strung with rural telephone lines and the farmers wonder how they ever got along without the rural route and telephone systems. According to their own statements they would pay double the existing price rather than go without either. In addition to the general work of the Clyde postoffice, the St. Joseph mail has been cared for since the abandonment of that office bjr Postmaster Boudreau. BUILDING OF WAGON BRIDGE OVER THE REPUBLICAN RIVER AT CLYDE. For several years the citizens of Elk and Shirley townships agitated the question of building a wagon bridge over the Republican river west of Clyde. From time to time the great advantages of this enterprise to Clyde and the outlying districts had been pointed out to the people and the ferry boat institutions discouraged. The citizens were ready to acknowledge and "sanction the benefit to be derived from a bridge being built, but demurred the tax it would impose upon them. The citizens of Elk and Shirley town- ships were requested to meet at the office of Judge McCrea, in the city of Clyde to discuss plans for securing the bridge. December 30, 1873, an election was held in Clyde to determine whether a bridge should be built 402 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. across the Republican with the following results : For the bridge and bonds, twenty-nine; against the bridge and bonds, eighty-four; majority against, thirty-nine. The election for bridge bonds was again held in Clyde, October 13, 1877, the result being forty-five majority in favor. The people of Clyde rejoiced in the accomplishment of this victory. They considered it necessary and important to the growth of their little city that the Republican river should be bridged and as time rolled on the opposition rejoiced in the consummation of what had seemed to them an extravagant proposition. An effort was made to get Shirley's assistance in the building of the bridge, but they could not be induced to see it in that light, so it was done without their help. The new wagon bridge over the Republican river at Clyde was completed in June, 1901, at a cost of $7,300. The old piers being used; the iron from the old- bridge was sold and netted the county $500, making the net cost of the pres- ent bridge $6,800. BRIDGE OVER ELK CREEld. March 6, 1875, the legal voters of Elk township were called to the polls to vote bonds for the building of a bridge across Elk creek at the foot of Washington street, in Clyde. The bonds carried by a handsome ma- jority of seventy- four to forty against. CLYDE PUBLIC SCHOOLS. An account of the first school house built in Clyde is given in the history of the Elk creek settlement. In the little cabin of that period and the pres- ent imposing structure, where so many bright boys and girls are daily gain- ing knowledge, there is a huge contrast. The original building of today was erected in 1879 and contained six rooms, which was more than the needed capacity at that time, but the management counted upon the future growth and prosperity of their town, a provision deemed unwise by many. School opened in the new building in February, 1880, with the following corps of teachers: F. E. Burke, principal, with Clara Hay (Mrs. Miller of Clifton,) Carrie Borton (Mrs. Cannon of Clyde) and Mary E. Turner (decease.d) of Clyde, as assistants. The term was five months; the en- rollment two hundred and twenty. In 1885 the number had increased to four hundred and seventy, the city having doubled its population, as the wise sages predicted, within five years. An addition of two rooms was built in 1884, making a total of eight large rooms, with spacious halls. The building as it now stands cost twenty thousand dollars. The ground upon which the structure stands was purchased from Mrs. Edward Gardner, for the nominal sum of one hundred dollars. The material used was red brick and the architecture is modern. The building graces the center of wide grounds, shaded by a fine grow th of forest trees. The school comprises HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 403 Clyde's Handsome Public School Building. four divisions : the primary, intermediate, grammar and high school. There has been a graduating class with the attendant exercises every year since 1890, Avith the exception of one — 1899, the high school course being changed at that time from three years to four. The course of study is based upon the uniform arrangement prepared and outlined for the schools of the state. The building is modern in all its appointments and contains a well selected library. The board of education selected by the Clyde citizens have been par- ticularly efficient. For years during the earlier building up of the schools, David Turner, Sr., was an indefatigable worker for their best interests. Later he was succeeded by James Turner, who followed in his fa- ther's footstepa and maintained the same prudent management. W. S. Roach, F. A. Griffin and J. F. Randolph have been capable officers. Since F. A. Griffin's removal from the city his place on the board has been filled by G. G. Goodwin, who will undoubtedly continue the successful co-operation of board, teacher and student that has charac- terized the past. Some excellent records have been made in the Clyde schools. Miss Gertrude Wade, who lives at Ames, three miles distant, drove or walked the four years daily that completed her high school course in 1902, and was seldom absent or tardy. Miss Ailsie Morley shows a record of two hun- dred gained for attendance and punctuality through the entire high school course. Five years prior to 1902, when he graduated, Vernon Morley 'en- tered room five, passed through grades seven and eight and into the high school the first year. This young student has not only a retentive memory but wonderful reasoning powers. He studied philosophy as early as 1898, a mere child, and when asked what he wanted to do with it replied, "I want to fix things better in my mind." The class of 1902, not only took what they absolutely needed but adopted zoology and German. Miss Ailsie Morley carried away first honors, and John Van DeMark, second. Of the latter it may be said he gives promise of becoming known in the professional world, being a fine student of superior talents. Milo Ransopher, the little grandson of the late Dr. Ransopher, is a lad of much promise. He shows a par- ticular inclination and talent for mechanical devices and possesses an indi- viduality seldom seen in a boy fifteen years of age. He is never so happy as when "rigged up" in a pair of overalls that reach to the neck, covering his well groomed attire, and studying the intricaces of machinery in the mill or the waterworks. He stands at the head of his class in practical engi- neering and can manipulate an engine better than many so-called engi- neers. 404 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. When the day arrived for determining whether or not Clyde should have a high school, several young men and boys were largely instrumental in car- rying it to a successful conclusion. John Van DeMark, Everard Kinch, IJewellyn Reid, Martin Van DeMark, Raymond Gregg, Charles Montgom- ery and Cornelius Murphy worked diligently throughout the day, bringing citizens out in carriages to vote on the high school question. They brought out every available voter and kept tally that none should fail to cast a ballot. As to deportment, general progress and good morals the Clyde schools stand second to none in Cloud coimty. An article on the Clyde schools would not be complete without mention of "Janitor Ince," who was a beloved and familiar character for about fifteen years. He was an English- man by birth and having heard he could secure a homestead in the west, came to Kansas. People took a kindly interest in Mr. Ince, who was an aged miisician, and when he was gathered to his "eternal home," where his wife had preceded him several years, his familiar face was missed, as he had be- come a part of the school building. FIRST woman's CHRISTAIN TEMPERANCE UNION CONVENTION. June ID, 1885, Clyde witnessed the first delegated body of women ever assembled in Cloud county. It was the occasion of the convention of the Woman's Christain Temperance Union for the purpose of establishing a county organization. Mrs. G. W. Allen enjoyed the honor of being the first president of this convention and impressed every one with her rare executive ability. ^Irs. Dr. Dabney performed the duties assigned her as secretary in an able manner. FATAL FIRE IN CLYDE. January 19, 1888, one of the most horrible accidents that ever occurred in Clyde took place. The livery stable of Mr. Brownlee, on Green street, was that night discovered to be on fire. The citizens, with the fire company, were soon on the spot to combat the flames. It was announced that a man was in the burning barn, which statement the crowd was loath t.o believe, but when corroborated by J. E. Toot, and others, who declared they saw him pass from a stall on the nc^rth, across the gangway to the south side, and later on his hands and knees wrapped in flames, all doubt was removed. After the flames were extinguished a ghastly spectacle was presented. In the second stall to the soutli were found the completely disfigured remains of the unfortunate man. The sad affair was directly chargeable to whiskey, as Mr. Brownlee and some associates were in a state of intoxication, and to their condition is the origin of the fire accredited. Mr. Brownlee entered the burning building, ostensibly for the purpose of saving some of his stock. Had he been sober, in all probability he would have been more cautious and his life spared. Twenty horses and two cows were burned with the stable. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 405 CLYDE S WATERMELON CARNIVALS. In the Slimmer of 1899, Clyde held its first watermelon carnival, and there was said to be upwards of fifteen thousand people in attendance. This annual fete is a brilliant success and is a part of the modern history of the city of Clyde. Although the town is full to overflowing with visitors from various towns, they are all cared for, nearly every family entertaining from four to a dozen guests. It is a jolly, good natured crowd. True, there are One of Clyde's Carnival Melons. some "toughs" who take advantage of such a time, and imbibe too much of "the joyful" and become hilarious, but upon the whole, pleasure and in- nocent .sports reign supreme. The portals of the city are thrown wide open and everybody having left cares and grievances at home, enters into the spirit of the occasion. The gayety of the crowd is' infectious and every one becomes oblivious to everything but the laughing, merry-making crew. Much credit is due to Clyde's leading citizens who arrange many special and unique features for these carnivals. Each year they have varied. In IQOO a chorus of voices, under the training of Mrs. C. W. Van DeMark, de- lighted the visitors. The second year (and the present one) was made in- teresting by a beautiful flower parade which was loudly cheered and appre- ciated by the throng. During this same carnival, an illuminated parade was one of the most engaging features. The floats were suggested and designed 4o6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. A Display of "Manila"' in Front OF James Turner's During the Carnival of 1901. by Albeit T. Reid, the talented cartoonist of Topeka, formerly of Clyde. Then there is always vaudeville, dancing, racing, baloon ascensions and Clyde's Military band boys who add greatly to the pleasure of the carnival- Melons on all occasions — but the one of the present year — have beai free as the waters that flow. Great, luscious melons, as only can be grown in the vicinity of Clyde. Every train is full to overflowing. The watermelon carnival is such a pronounced success it will undoubtedly be a permanent feature in Clyde as the Mr.rdi Gras of New Orleans, the Veiled Prophet of St. Louis or the Priest of Pallas of Kansas City. The whole city is decorated. At the park are long tables, fairly groaning with the weight of huge melons which keep several men continuously carv- ing and placing on the tables where every one may eat without price. The carnival of 1902 was not so pre- eminently a success as on previous years, owing to the almost total failure of the watermelon crop. However, there were thousands of visitors present and Clyde did royally in entertaining them. The keys of the city were handed o\er to the merry throng of people that poured off from every incoming train. There were pleasing attractions; among the most engaging perhaps was the battle of Manila, a sp_ectacu- lar illustration of that event which entertained thousands of carnivalites. There were three games of base ball be- tween the Fort Rileys and Topeka Business College, the latter carrying off the hon- ors of the field. One of the special features of the oc- casion was the flower parade. While not many carriages were included, in point of ar- tistic merit they were ex- ceptionally well executed. This procession was marshaled by J. E. Toot and Dr. C. P. Gillespie, whose military bearing as they cantered here and there mounted on their -caparisoned steeds was the envy of all the small boys of soldierly aspirations. The march was preceded by the Military Band. Carnivalites Eating Luscious Melons. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 407 The honor of Queen of the Carnival was worthily bestowed upon Miss Flossie Lowers. Her carriage, beautifully decorated, was drawn by a tan- dem team and attended by a company of militia. Mrs. E. Peck, whose car- riage justly won the first prize, occupied an open vehicle, literally covered with large white roses, a creation of art. She drove a great black, high- stepping steed whose arched neck and proud bearing seemed to invite special attention from the lookers to his pretty bonnet of white and gold; his cream white harness, bedecked with white roses, and last l)ut not least his gilded hoofs, a finishing touch that harmonized with his well groomed and shining coat. The carriage of the Misses Farnsworth and Wickwerth won the second prize. This turnout was particularly hand- some and won much commendation.' The carriages were all de- signed in a manner to call forth praise and admiration. Mrs. B. Arten's chariot, drawn by three white horses, merited and received much credit- able comment. There were many pretty and artistic window decorations, among these, the postoffice book store windows of Sidney H. Knapp, the handiwork of Eugene B. Frankforther, were awarded first prize. They were bedecked with vari-colored crepe paper and all the wares incident to their stock of goods, eliciting much deserved admira- tion. Sohlinger Brothers' windows were unic[ue; in one was a huge horn suspended midway from the ceiling and the inscription, "Come in and blow yourself." The front of Miss Hay's feed store was among the best, con- sidering her stock in trade and her material for decorating. She was entitled to a prize.^ CLYDE AND VfCINITY. Concordia Militia in Camp at Clyde During the Carnival. The flotirishing city of Clyde is situated on the north b?nk of the Repub- lican river and on the east bank of Elk creek, which empties into the river at this point. The present population of Clyde is about fourteen hundred people. There are five churches, a magnificent brick school building and 4o8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. about five miles of paved walks. Clyde is "the home of the luscious water- melon." Three lines of railroads pass through the city, the Rock Island, Missouri Pacific and the Union Pacific, rendering it a fine shipping point for stock and grain. As to citizens, a more enterprising, industrious, generous and intelligent class of people (who all pull together for the best interests of their town) does not exist in the state. The substantial business A Clyde Street Scene. structures, and handsome residences all witness the prosperity of this beau- tiful little city. Clyde is situated in one of the finest grain-growing districts on the con- tinent. It is conceded that good crops of corn are grown in the Republican Valley when that industry fails in most other localities. The valley has many natural attractions, is in a high state of cultivation, and unsurpassed for its beauty and richness of soil. Potter's clay is found in abundance in the vicin- ity of Clyde and in the early days was utilized in the manufacture of pot- tery. The ware was said to be of excellent quality and the industry was nell supported for years, supplying a trade covering many miles with their earthenware. The Clyde Pottery was owned and operated by the Sohlinger Brothers, both of whom are still residents of the county. All the social orders are represented in Clyde. The people are made cognizant with the doings in their town and the outside world by the three papers published in their midst. The Herald,. edited by John B. Rupe, who for more than a quarter of a century has had Clyde's best interests very near his heart. The Voice, by Joseph J. Henley, who is also an old timer and devoted to the town of his choice. The Republican, edited by W. A. Huff, is a live paper that is gaining rapidly in popularity. The Clyde Exchange' Bank, and the Elk State Bank are solid financial institutions. Clyde's Military Band is the pride of her citizens, and justly so, for it stands at the head of all organiza- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 409 tions of its kind in the county. Every lin€ of business is represented and many of them are metropohtan in their appointments. THE ELK STATE BANK OF CLYDE. The Elk State Bank, one of the solid institutions of Clyde, was estab- lished under the present management in 1897, with a capital stock of ten thousand dollars. The officers were N. D. Sprague, of New York, presi- dent; Charles E. Clark, of Buffalo, vice-president; W. H. Howard, cashier. Directors, N. D. Sprague, Charles E. Clark, W. H. Howard, C. F. Arm- strong, R. H. Gill, W. L. Brandon and C. H. Brosseau; the last four named are citizens of Clyde. In March, 1899, D. H. Atwood was elected cashier and the bank is practically under his management. In December, 1901, the capi- tal stock was increased to fifteen thousand dollars. The present officials are C. F. Armstrong, president; R. H. Gill, vice-president; D. H. Atwood, ca.sliier. Directors, C. F. Armstrong, R. H. Gill, R. B. Miller, F. H. Butler, W. L. Brandon, G. L. Gregg and F. J. Atwood. The present organization are all local men. The building occupied by the Elk State Bank was built by the Van DeMark brothers in 1880. The Elk State Bank w^as incorporated under the name of State Bank of Clyde, in 1880, by the Van DeMark brothers, with M. V. B. Van DeMark, president and Charles W. Van DeMark, cashier. This bank was sold in June, 1886, and ttie name changed to the Elk State Bank of Clyde. In 1882, W. P. Rice came to Clyde for the purpose of starting a bank. A friend offered to furnish fifty thousand dollars with the proviso that a son, who was a wayward fellow, be taken in and taught the banking business. The son grew tired very shortly afterward and returned to his home in the east, but the capital was forthcoming and the Clyde State Bank was estab- lished. Then, money was two per cent and notes ten and fifteen per cent per month. A few years later the institution was changed and put under the supervision of the First National Bank of Clyde, with a capital stock of fifty thousand dollars. A few years later the Republican Valley Bank was organized as a State bank, with a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars, with N. B. Nutt, president, who bought the stock. After an existence of two years, this bank went under during the panic. A few years prior the Clyde Banking Company did business in the same building with S. F. Robinson in charge. It closed up its affairs about the same time the Republican Valley Bank failed. F. H. Butler was appointed receiver and wound up the business. W. P. Rice was an interesting character and made considerable history. He was superintendent of the United States Prison prior to coming to Clyde. He organized banks at Ames, Cuba, Washington and Greenleaf and helped to boom these towns. He was a man of resourceful energy and about this time went to the State of Vermont, where he raised one million two hundred and fifty thousand dollars, establishing a National Bank and left Clyde to assume the management. Within the next few months he interested him- 4IO HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. self at Ft. Payne, Alabama, where he instigated a boom which amounted to thousands of dollars of capital. Mr. Rice at this time was rated at eight hun- dred thousand dollars and lost it all when the "bubble bursted" at Ft. Payne. He was practically broke for about eight years, losing his reputation, his influei ice and his capital ; but this energetic rustler was not to be kept down and \^'as soon associated with eastern capitalists who recognized his ability as a promoter of trusts, and sent him to London to sell stock for them. He was successful as a promotor and has again arisen to afifluence and influence, being rated at about two million dollars. Mr. Rice was perhaps one of the most distinguished citizens Clyde has ever had. THE CLYDE EXCHANGE BANK. F. A. Griffin established the Clyde Exchange Bank, an individual con- cern in 1882, with a capital stock of $5,000, and conducted a banking busi- ness under the above heading continuously for twenty years. Other banks have come and gone, but the Clyde Exchange Bank has been a pei'manent institution. In January, 1898, he increased the capital stock to $8,500. In January, 1899, to $10,000 with a surplus of $2,500, The deposits run from $30,000 to $50,000. In 1899, Mrs. Griffin was appomted president of the Clyde Exchange Bank and Mr. Griffin vice-president, which constituted the officers of the firm under the Griffin management. Mr. Griffin began the banking business in a small frame building which burned in the Clyde fire of 1887, and erected the building now occupied by the bank, a brick, structure two stories high, 33 1-2 by 45 and 48 feet in dimensions. Recently Mr. Griffin consummated a deal whereby S. T. Powell and G. G. Goodwin became owners and managers of the Clyde Exchange Bank. The new firm will continue the enterprise along the lines of its past popular management. The new officials are accommodating, competent men with many years of bank- ing experience, at Waterville and other towns and are favorably known. The capital stock has been increased to $80,000, making it one of the strong- est institutions in the county. S. T. Powell is president of the bank and G. G. Goodwin, cashier. While the citizens of Clyde universally regretted the removal of Mr. Griffin and his excellent family from their city the loss is somewhat sustained by Mr. Goodwin and his estimable family who will become permanent residents of Clyde. CLYDE MILITARY BAND. The citizens of the city of Clyde may well refer to the Clyde Military Banrl with pride and gratification, for it is one of the best organizations of its kind in the state. They organized from raw recruits with the exception of two men, L. M. Duvall and G. S. Rusco. The former was a clarinet player and the latter had been a member of the Dewitt (Nebraska) Band. They were the first to agitate the subject of organizing a band, and called a meeting HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 4" for that purpose which was held in an old building- in the north part of town. The meeting was not a very encouraging one, composed mostly of cigarette smokers who convened out of curiosity. The second meeting was called in the city hall during the month of October, 1898, with a more prom- ising outlook, and a permanent organization was inaugurated with G. S. Rusco, president and leader, L. M. Duvall, secretary and L. J. Banner, treasurer. In 1899 a circus v isited Clyde, and while there "busted up" in business. The band was much in need of a leader and secured the services of E. H. Carpenter, the band man of the defunct circus. Under his leadership they progressed rapidly and made their first appearance in public in November, about three weeks after the organization of the band was perfected. The recipient of their favor was C. P. Smith, at that time newly elected Judge. The night was a cold one, the instruments froze up, and chilled any desire the boys had to go again. It was during the spring of 1899, through the efforts of Captain Cramner of the Kansas National Guards, that the band earned quite a reputation playing for the Fourth of July celebration and for Clyde's first watermelon carnival. Through him they were furnished temporary suits. Captain Cramner used his influence to establish them as the regimental band but the honor went to Ottawa. In June, 1901, Arthur Marshal! of Ames assumed the leadership. Mr. Marshall's ability as a band leader is universally acknowledged where he is known. He was leader of the Marshall Band, composed entirely of members of his family and became locally famous. There were seven brothers, and others who were relatives of the family, in the Marshall Band. Several of the members of the Clyde Military Band have made remarkable strides, but Logan Rundell stands pre- eminently at the head in point of talent and progress as a baritone player. In 1900, the younger growth of boys organized what they designated "The Kid Band," took the cast-off instruments, and persevered until now they are all members of the Clyde Military Band, making a membership of twenty with uniforms for all. They practice regularly Thursday night during the winter months, and Tuesday and Thursday nights during the summer months, and impose measures making it obligatory for members to be present. The present officers are G. S. Rusco, president and Fi-ank Rupe, treas- urer, secretary and drum major. In July of the present year a band stand was erected by popular subscription, located in the northwest corner of the "Commercial Hotel" grounds, where they discourse sweet music regularly twice a week. CREAMERY AT CLYDE. One of the most important industries in the Clyde vicinity is the extens- ive creamery of C. H. Armstrong. The business was established in 1883, and consists of the main factory, located in the suburbs of the city of Clyde, and eight skimming stations. The milk is gathered from their various cus- 412 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tomers, separated by the best power separators at the stations and the cream shipped to central stations, where it is chtirned. The capacity is Hmited only by the amount of milk or cream received. With their present capacity they could readily handle from four thousand to five thousand pounds of butter daily. An experience of nineteen years has demonstrated to Mr. Armstrong that cheap machines are not economical and all stations are equipped with the best money can buy — the "Alpha"' and "DeLaval" — both belt and steam turbine. At the factory two large Disbrow Combined Churn and Butter Workers are used and the product is packed directly from the churns into prints or tubs as the trade desires. METHODIST EPISCOPAI, CHURCH OF CLYDE. The M. E. church of Clyde was built at a cost, including lots, of five thousand five hundred dollars. The first trustees were : J. H. Ingham, J. B. Rupe, F. B. Rupe, L. Mosher, U. J. Smith, W. N. Woodard and Thomas Owen. Among those who gave substantial aid in the building up of the Methodist Episcopal church is the Reverend' Marlatt, of Manhattan, who was really in charge of the work with R. P. West, but by mutual agreement, allowed Mr. West this part of the district. Mr. Marlatt preached at the residence of Charles Huntress in Clay Center, in 1865, and at the first quarterly meeting held in Cloud county at the home of "Uncle Moses" Heller. Reverend West was the first minister and Reverend Marlatt the second to hold services in the county. Mr. Heller had just finished a fine (fine in those days) log house with a covering of shakes and a floor, the latter uncommon at that time. In this the first quarterly meet- ing was held which occurred in Novem- ber. 1866, and was an historical event in the community. At the next quar- terly meeting Elder Taylor remained a week, holding services at which nearly everybody became converted, but as Mr. Rupe states, " the conver- sions seemed to be more to Elder Taylor than the Lord, for as soon as he went away the new converts made shipwrecks of their faith." Elder Taylor removed to Arkansas where he died at the age of ninety years. The first effort of the Methodist organization toward a house of worship was buying the city hall from a joint stock company, Frank B. Rupe paying for nearly half of the stock. The building was afterward sold to Mart Patrie for seven hundred and fifty dollars, which gave the church a start toward build- ing their present handsome edifice. The hall mentioned is now the imple- ment house of A. J. Patterson. Methodist Episcopal Church OF Clyde. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 413 (^ne of the events that Clyde may well feel proud of was the corner stone laying of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Addresses were made by Reverends Davidson and Shackleford ; excellent music rendered by the choir and special songs by the pupils of Mrs. Sohlinger and Miss Ella Stuck, teachers of the Clyde public schools. At this meeting, fifteen hundred dol- lars had to be raised and there was no devised system planned for its accomplishment. However, there happened to be on the ground a leader just fitted for the emergency. This gentleman was Elder Lockwood, who boldly went forward and declared the said amount must be raised. Few believed it could be done, but from the enthusiasm he infused, it soon became evident the mountain was going to give way. It did, and be it said to the glory of Clyde, the amount was pledged for and something over fifty dollars to spare. Among those ^^'ho made contributions deserving of mention are the Taggart brothers, J. H. Ingham, F. B. Rupe, W. N. Woodard and Professor T. W. Roach. .Of those out of the church who showed a magnanimous pub- lic spirit, should be mentioned Judge Bor- ton, W. .S. Cannon, Dr. ' Thompson, Will Peck, Elder John BoggS, Goff & Son, first Baptist Church of Clyde. Farmer and Daniel Lesadder, the latter con- tributing five hundred dollars. Next was the formal laying of the corner stone. There was deposited in it a Bible, a hymn book, a copy of the Central Advocate, the names of all Jfie members of the church, a copy of the Herald and Democrat, and Miss Ella Stuck had the names of her pupils printed on cards and enclosed. The closing prayer was made by Reverend Gaylord. Much credit is due Rev- erend G. W. Grabe, for had it not been for his push, perseverance and energy, it is doubtful whether Clyde would have succeeded in building one of the finest churches in northwest Kansas. HISTORY OF THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN CLYDE. On April 17, 1880, the session convened at the house of the pastor, Reverend H. Gaylord, who acted as moderator, with Elders James Clithero and Dr. D. B. Dutton. They voted that the session adopt the following as so much of the past history of the Clyde Presbyterian church. The Clyde Presbyterian church was organized by Reverend G, I. Chapin, of Irving, Kansas, and was then included in Smoky Hill Presbytery. Suc- ceeding Reverend Chapin the Reverend M. P. Jones ministered to the congre- gation for a short time as stated supply, having also the church at Concordia. In consequence of difficulties growing out of the building of the church edifice Mr. Jones was compelled to leave and for several years there was no preach- 414 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ing nor any religious services whatever. Reverend H. J. Gaylord was sent into the field by Dr. Hill the "Synodical Missionary" in the spring of 1878. With his preaching on the first Sabbath of May of that year begins the real history of the church. But four persons were found on the ground who could be recognized as members of the church and only two of these were members practically. Since that date the church has been by its Great Head blessed with a gradual but most encouraging growth in numbers and spiri- tual power. The session met at the Shirley school house; after worship the following additions were received with church fellowship : Dr. D. B. Dut- ton and wife and Hannah T. Dutton; the former from the First Congrega- tional church, of Matamora, Illinois, and the latter from the United Presby- terian church of Johnson county, Missouri. Dr. Dutton was chosen elder and welcomed to his seat in the session. From this time forward the church has progressed. -Many have removed from time to time; many have been cut down by the "grim reaper," but the congregation has kept a steady march onward and is in good condition. There are few remaining of the early mem- bers; among them we will note Mrs. Gaylord and Mr. Pitsch, the latter with his wife received into the church October 22, 1879. On November 9, 1879, the Clyde Presbyterian church was dedicated to the service of the Most High God, Reverend Dr. Hill preaching the dedica- tion sermon, assisted by Reverend Farmer of Concordia, and Reverend H. J. Gaylord, of Clyde. In August 1879, Lyman J.- Loveland was elected elder. In 1889, P McCrea was chosen elder but he left Clyde and A. D. Mofifatt was elected to take his place. Mr. Moffatt is still an elder and the only one of those early members. James Clithero . removed from Clyde in 1882. Re\'erend W. W. Wells took charge of the field in the spring of 1886, and during his pastorate H. N. Ralston was made elder. In the autumn of 1890, David R. Hindman was appointed moderator In the spring of 1892, he was succeeded by H. W. Clark whose year expired May I, 1893, and a meeting was called in February of the same year, to de- termine whether he sould be invited to remain another year; and it was unanimously decided to invite him to supply the pulpit. During the first year of his labor twenty-three additions 10 the church were recorded. December 26, 1894, W. H. Rockefeller was unanimously elected to take the place of L. B. Hayes who had moA^ed from the city and Reverend Clark was unanimously voted to supply the pulpit another year, at the close of which the congregation voted him for the third time by a very large major- ity to remain the ensuing year. Reverend George McKay, a very worthy man and much beloved minister, began his labors in Clyde in July, 1899 andremained until 1902. January 16, 1898, Dr. C. F. Leslie and A. W. Gerhardt were installed as elders, to fill the vacancies made by the removal of eldei's, L. B. Hayes and H. B. Ralston. The dimensions of the church are 25x40 feet, with a capacity for one hundred and fifty people. It is a frame structure with an entrance 8x8 feet. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 415 They have a parsonage on grounds adjoining — a seven-room modern dwell- ing. The church has an aid society and a mite society in good condition. They have one of the best choirs in the city which has been an attractive feature for many years, and have recently added a pipe organ, the only one in Cloud county. The present pastor is Reverend Moffatt, who was assigned this charge in 1902. CATHOLIC CHURCH AND CONVENT OF CLYDE. i A really picturesque site in Clyde is that of the Catholic church, situated on the summit of a gently rising slope at the western end of town. It com- mands an enchanting view of the various bemls of the river in the southwest, while trees innumer- able hide away the city in the east. The Union Pacific tracks skirt the church grounds on the north, a constant re- minder — as it were — to this peaceful spot of the throbbing pulse of the world outside. There are three buildings in the en- closure. In the cen- ter stands the church, on either side of which are the acad- emy and parsonage. All three of these buildings present a cheerful appear- ance from the outside. The academy is a large brick building sixty feet square, with a belfry one hundred feet high in the front. The church is 70x34 feet in dimensions, a frame building of imposing and yet cheerful aspect. The priest's nook is a cozy, comfortable and inviting place. Five and twenty years ago they were different. Where theso. buildings stand tall grass aboimded then. In some little house in town the Catholics gathered to worship. Father Mollier astride his slow but sure mount car- ried hither in saddle bags the wherewithal he needed for mass. But swiftly the news of the growing Canadian settlement spread to Kankakee, Illinois, and to the far off Canada. Settlers poured rapidly in to the surrounding country of Clyde and with them came the necessity of building a church. The good Father was the man for the task, indeed, several such works were already to his credit. His reputation brought to the undertaking an abundance of support, not only from those of his o\vn persuasion but from 25 Catholic Church and Convent at Clyde. 4i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. numerous protestants as well. With an eye to the future he had the build- ing made several times larger than its needs called for and at the same time susceptible of being further added to. His forethought was more than justi- fied by events, for three years ago Reverend J. Maher realized the necessity of enlarging its capacity and added thirty feet on the north side, and the indica- tions point to the need of still larger accommodations within a few years. The church has not been fortunate in retaining its pastors for a long period of time. The first resident pastor, Reverend Father Pierre, who iDuilt the parsonage, remained only a couple of years. His successor, Reverend Father Pagett, stayed but a few months. Then came Father Leonard, a ■ much beloved man, out of whose heart and purse arose the academy. The building cost $8,000, most of which came from his generous hand. It is now the orphan asylum of the diocese of Concordia, as well as the parochial school of Clyde. It has also been used at various times as a boarding school for small boys. Father Leonard has since gone to his re- ward. He was succeeded by the Reverend Father Fitzpatrick, who remained about two years and was one of the best loved priests that passed a time at Clyde. The next was Reverend Father Plamondon, who did not remain very long. He was followed by a venerable and much revered clergyman, Rev. Father A. J. Legrand. His previous -career had been an unique one. He was born in the Channel Islands, was a fellow of Oxford, an army captain in Africa, an Episcopalian missionary in China and Poland and for many years superintendent of the Anglican Mission in Italy. He at length be- came a Catholic priest. Clyde was his first pastorate and there he labored for three years with truly apostolic zeal. Reverends Conway and Lecontere in turn succeeded Father Legrand. In the autumn of 1899, Clyde was vouchsafed a Catholic pastor whose eloquence lias thrilled hundreds of Kansas audiences, and is today in growing favor. Father Maher, born on the Green Isle and educated in France, was a justly popular priest. He enlarged the church at Clyde and added greatly to the numerical strength and esprit of the congregation. Two years of labor showed his sterling worth. He was promoted to the deanship of Salina where his influence has been most beneficient. Pather Maher departed for his new field in 1901, and Reverend Conway was reappointed. He has lately been succeeded by Father Perrier, a popular and enthusiastic churchman of Concordia. EFFINGHAM .^ND MUSCOTAH TELEPHONE COMPANY. The headquarters of the Effiingham and Muscotah Telephone Company are located in the city of Clyde. The ofiicials of this local and long dis- tance telephone are: R. B. Miller, president; James Sager, vice-president;' J. A. Sohlinger, treasurer and manager; J. H. Sager, secretary. The enterprise was established and put in operation by the Reise Con- struction Company in 1900. The industry was started in April of that year with fort}--five 'phones. They now control one hundred and fifteen 'phones HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 417 and twenty-five miles of toll line. They connect with all towns in north- west Kansas. They use the grounded system, American electrical board and the American and North Electric 'phones. The central office is located over the Exchange Bank and is presided over by Miss Maggie Sohlinger, assisted by Miss Florence Lowers. Ernest Stimson is the electrician. The officials at the head of this enterprise are all well known business men of Clyde, who are interested in many progressive organizations that contribute substantially to the public welfare. John Alfred Sohlinger, the popular manager of the system has proven an efficient officer and has acquired a thorough knowledge of the equipments of the company. "the regulator." The only department store in Clyde, "The Regulator," was established by Schroeder Brothers and has had a checkered career, owing to the panic that caused the downfall of many firms which were apparently based on an iron foundation. Shroeder moved his stock from the city and John Randolph established a general merchandising concern, but after a struggle of a few years went into bankruptcy, and later Mr. Patterson assumed con- trol and he, too, subsequently went into liquidation. There were traditionally three in the charmed number but it remained for the fourth, F. O. Lutz, to make the grand success he has done of this commodious, well appointed, up-to-date department store. He assumed control of "The Regulator" in Avtgust, 1899. In the spring of 1902 he bought the Brown shoe store, formerly owned by Patterson. In justice to the former managers of this store it must be said their failure was not due to mismanagement, but mainly to the condition of the times — the stringency in the money market when all business enterprises were under a dark cloud and many strong foundations took a downward slide. Mr. Lutz has made many convenient changes, one being an arch con- necting the shoe department with the main building; the latter had been divided by a partition which was removed and the room is now used exclusively for dry goods. From a general merchandise of small proportions it has merged into a department store of great magnitude, so dear to the hearts of the weaker sex in all of our larger cities. JDuring the busy seasons the firm employs from ten to twelve clerks; the average number is eight and they are kept busy. The proprietor and the assistants are always courteous, pains- taking and careful to please. The annual sales average about forty-five thousand dollars, more than doubling a capital of twenty thousand dollars invested. This store ranks as one of the first in the country and is a pay- ing enterprise financially. Mr. Lutz has had an experience of about twenty years; ten of that period he was in the employ as traveling salesman of a Kanasas City jobbing house and he has also been in the employ of several large eastern wholesale houses in the same capacity. He made his first venture in business for himself in the city of Clyde on a capital of seven 41 8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. thousand dollars. He is now interested in a large department store under the firm name of Walker, Bruce & Lutz at Narka, Kansas, doing an annual business of fifty thousand dollars. MILLING BUSINESS OF CLYDE. For years the subject of building a mill was agitated in Clyde. In January, 1874, a meeting was held in Judge McCrea's office for the purpose of considering a grist mill in Clyde and a joint stock company was organ- ized to be known as the Clyde Mill Company. An appeal was made to the citizens of Clyde "to put a shoulder to the wheel" and put the project through. This was a step toward the development of their magnificent young country and which has since proved a paying investment; but it was months ere the shares were all taken up, men of much courage standing aloof and depending upon others for the achievement of the project. In the autumn of 1878, F. \V. Frasius erected a mill near the Central Branch tracks or near the site of the present mill, which burned in 1880. THE CLYDE MILL COMPANY. During the summer of 1881 the Clyde Mill Company was incorporated with C. W. VanDeMark president, R. J. Abbott, treasurer, and F. W. Frasius, secretary. The property and bulk of the stock was owned by the VanDeMarks. They started by grinding com and feed, but later machin- ery for grinding wheat was put in and subsequently an immense elevator. The business prospered and grew i;i proportion until they had a capacity of seventy-five barrels of flour per day. The elevator had a storage capacity of forty thousand bushels of grain, with loading and unloading facilities for ten car loads per day. The forty-horse power in the mill furnished the power for the elevator, being transmitted iDy means of an underground cable. This institution gave labor to about ten men. They had grain stations at Ames, Rice and Lawrenceburg The whole thing burned on the 12th of March, 1887. It was only partially covered by insurance and was never rebuilt. At this time they were feeding one hundred and thirty head of cattle. Bams and sheds full of grain were burned and they were compelled to ship their stock. Most of the grain and sheds were a total loss. THE CLYDE MILLING COMPANY. The Clyde Roller Mill was built by R. B. Miller and E. Temple, of Clifton, in 1900, and incorporated soon afterward as the Clyde Milling Company, E. Temple selling his stock to John Woodruff. The officers are A. Wangerein, president, R. B. Miller, vice-president and general manager, James Sager, secretary, James B. Sager, bookkeeper and assistant n,ianager. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 419 W. E. Gray is head miller. At the expiration of six months the capacity of the mill was increased from one hundred to three hundred barrels. The cor- poration has a paid up capital of twenty-nine thousand dollars. The present value of the property is about seventy thousand dollars. The mill is equipped with the latest Nordyke machinery and their trade extends as far east as Cleveland, Ohio, and Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, as far south as Chattanooga and Nashville, and west to Denver. The milling One of Clyde's Growing Industries. company also operates an elevator in connection, with a storing capacity of thirty thousand bushels. When running full force this corporation gives employment to fifteen men. The main building of the Clyde Roller Mill is eighty by sixty feet in dimensions, three stories and a basement with engine and boiler room thirty by forty feet. The mill basement contains two line shafts, elevator boots and conveyer, taking wheat from three dumps. The first floor contains eight double stands of Nordyke & Marmon Company rollers. One stand 9x36 first and second break; one stand 9x30, third and fourth break; one stand 9x18, first middlings; one stand 9x18, second middlings; one stand 9x24, fourth middlings and first sizings; one stand 9x18, third middlings; one .stand 9x8, tailings and second sizings; one stand 9x18, fifth and sixth mid- dlings; one three pair high 9x18 feed mill; one bran packer, one shorts packer, one flour cylinder, two flour packers, one hopper scale, and three platform scales. From this floor on the west is the flour storage room 420 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 120x60 feet. The second floor contains two single purifiers, one double purifier, three dust collectors, one bran duster, one shorts duster, four wheat scourers, one suction fan for feed exhaust, one separator. This floor also contains two wheat tempering- bins and one bin over each packer. The third floor contains three large swing sifters, four large dust collectors, one com cleaner, one receiving separator, one milling separator, one reel for bolting corn meal, and one reel for rye flour. Four flour dressers, also elevator heads, shafting, etc. The driveway on the north of mill contains three dumps, above which is storage for one hundred and fifty thousand bushels of wheat. The engine is a one hundred and fifty horse power Twin City Corliss and boiler capacity of two hundred horse power. Also in the engine room there is a dynamo which furnishes electric light for the mill. All the machinery in the mill is of the Nordyke & IMarmon make and is all of the latest pattern. The machinery was installed by Theodore Ponsar, one of Nordyke & Mar- mon Company's expert millwrights. The following personal sketches of the management who have brought this enterprise up to its present standard will be of interest to the public gen- erally. They are all highly success f til business men who have spared no expense in fitting and making this mill come up to the requirements of the trade. A. Wangerien, the president of the company, is a thorough business man and came to Kansas from Cleveland, Ohio, about twenty-five years ago, locating near the little town of Vining, where he established a general merchandising business, and later bought a half interest in an elevator which has a storing capacity of thirty-five thousand bushels. He owns about two thousand acres of fine land lying east of Clyde and north and south of Vin- ing, and has a herd of about four hundred Hereford cattle. R. B. Miller, vice president and general manager, was a successful grain buyer and elevator man for several years. In the latter part of the 'eighties he became interested in the milling business and has made a success in both lines. He is one of the directors of the Elk State Bank. He is president of the Effingham & Muskotali Telephone Company and is recognized as one of Clyde's most capable business men. Mr. Miller, with his family, reside in Clyde. James Sager, secretary, came to \^ining- about the same time Mr. Wan- gerien did and engaged in the implement business; also invested in land. He now owns about two thousand acres and five hundred head of fine Here- ford cattle. He is a native of Canada and was practically a poor man when he came, another illustration of what energy can do in Kansas. John Woodruff is a farmer living east of Clyde. He came to Kansas a poor man with an ox team a quarter of a century ago. He now owns a model stock farm of four hundred acres. These men all exhibit keen inter- est in the development of agriculture and stock raising. James B. Sager, bookkeeper and assistant manager, graduated from the Ottawa, Canada, Normal and is an expert in his profession. He has been HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 421 connected with the firm since they began operations in 1900. He is also sec- retary and one of the stockholders of the Effingham & Muskotah Telephone Company. He is a resident of Clyde. The Clyde Milling Company have one of the best equipped mills west of Atchison and one of the best millers in Vv''. E. Gray that money or skill can secure. Mr. Gray has a reputation of being one of the best millers in the state of Nebraska, where he was connected with some of the largest mills for years, until the Clyde Milling Company were fortunate enough to secure his services a vear ago. The mill turns out the following brands : "Clyde's Best," "Clyde''s Golden Gate" and "Hard to Beat." Mr. Gray has developed a specialty in the way of health flour, which is in every way equal (and by many thought superior) to Ralston's Health Flour, retain- ing the digestive qualities, that white flour lacks, and is a most nutritious and palatable food product. No expense has been spared in bringing this mill up to its present standard. It is strictly up-to-date and it is the inten- tion to make it a lasting advertisment of the company's reliability and practical knowledge of the milling business. The magnitude of this enter- prise financially reaches two hundred thousand dollars annually. The past six months it was eighty-six thousand dollars, and the season was con- sidered' below the average, showing their trade to be on the increase, as it justly deserves. HONOR.\BLE JOHN B. RUPE. One of the highest tributes that could be paid Mr. Rupe, and one in which the writer feels assvired all his friends and fellow citizens would acquiesce, is that no one would associate with him a thought unworthy of a true Christian gentleman. He is the very soul of honor, unselfish gen- erosity and integrity. John B. Rupe is a son of the Reverend Samuel Rupe, who was a resident of Sumptions Prairie, St. Joseph county, Indiana, for over forty years, and was one of St. Joseph county's sturdy pioneers. He died in June, 1885, in the seventy-eighth year of his age. He had been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church since his boyhood and was a preacher of local note. He was an honest, upright, Christian man, greatly esteemed by his fellow citi- zens. Samuel Rupe was born in Ashe county, North Carolina, April 4, 1808. He emigrated with his paraits to the state of Indiana and settled in Wayne county in 1812. When he had attained his majority he located in St. Joseph county, where he lived and labored all the eventful years of his life. Reverend Rupe was converted at the age of eighteen years and re- ceived his first license to preach from the distinguished preacher, Re\'erend James Armstrong, at a quarterly meeting held in a barn near the town of Goshen, Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Rupe have been interested witnesses to the de\elop- ment of Cloud county since its early settlement, and are a part of its history, 42 2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. both pioneer and modern. They are editors and proprietors of the Clyde Herald, which entered upon its first volume in the city of Clyde, Thurs- day, May 9, 1879, and, since the consolidation of the Empire and Blade, is the oldest newspaper in Cloud county. J. B. Rupe & Company assumed the proprietorship of the Herald in November, 1883, and under their manage- ment it has developed into one of the best and most reliable papers issued in Cloud county. It advocates the politics of the Republican party and the principles of prohibition. It makes a bold and fearless stand for the prin- ciples of right and vigorously defends them. It is a clean paper and receives as it so justly deserves a large share of the public patronage. The American Economist, a paper devoted to the protection of Amer- ican labor and industries, often publishes clippings from the Clyde Herald. In its issue of May 3, 1901, the following is noted: "Since the Dingley tariff has been built, our exports have so enormously increased as to become alarming to foreign nations." And again, "Europe had the new scare about getting its share of trade under Cleveland, but it is McKinley that is IDlaying hob with her." "Oh, some sa}- hogs were seven cents once under Cleveland, but will you please remember that this was under his first admin- istration. See?" Mrs. Rupe is a woman of fine business qualifications and one of the main spokes in the wheel that runs the Herald office, and the paper owes much of its success to her energy and ability. Mr. and Mrs. Rupe are among the earliest and most historical characters of the county. The author uses the word character, for that suits the action to the word and Dickens would have reveled in some of their distinguished qualities as material for one of his famous novels. He would have immortalized them. The following biographical sketch accompanied with the pictures of Mr. and Mrs. Rupe appeared in an issue of The Kansan September 28, 1899, and is well worthy of space in these columns: "two mighty nice people. "Two of the quaintest characters in the newspaper work of Kansas are the subject? of this sketch. They are Mr. and Mrs. John B. Rupe, editors and proprietors of the Clyde Herald. Why do we say quaint? Because there is no other paper in the state like the Clyde Herald. So we are going to say something about them in connection with the splendid pictures of them which we print. They will be surprised, we are sure, to see this, and it will take them some time to guess where Ave got their excellent photographs. "John B. Rupe was born April 27, 183J, in St. Joseph county, Indiana, near South Bend. In his youth he taught school a spell and studied law at odd times and was admitted to the bar of that state some time in the early 'fifties. Tlie Pike's Peak fever got a good grip on him and took him across the plains, and he was mining in a Colorado gold camp when the war of the Rebellion broke out. He enlisted in Company L, Second Colorado. -He HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 423 was first sergeant of his company. At the close of the war ^Ir. Rupe came to Kansas with his brother, Frank, and settled on a claim on Elk creek, and has lived on the farm and at Clyde ever since. In the fall of 1866 he was chosen to represent the county (then Shirk}-) in the state legislature. During this session it was I\Ir. Rupe who had the name of the county changed to Cloud, in honor of Colonel W. F. Cloud, of the Second Kansas Regiment. Mr. Rupe contended then, and always has since, that the county was first named after a woman of unsavory character — Jane Shirley. Mr. Rupe was the first representative the county had in the legislature. "He was married to Mrs. Mary L. Smith, May 27, 1867. Mrs. Rupe's name was Mary L. Morley. She was born at Eristolville, Ashtabula county, Ohio, September 8, 1844. She came to Kansas with her parents in the spring of 1864. The family settled on a claim about three miles east of the present site of Clyde. She mar- ried Andrew W. Smith, December 4, 1864. 'Mr. Smith was killed by Indians, on White Rock creek, near the in the fall of 1866. Only one child came to bless C. Smith, who is in the employ of C. F. Armstrong, As before stated, she was married tq INIr. Rupe, May Hon. John B. Rupe. Jewell county line, this union — Owen the creamery man. 27, 1867, and it seems to us a more happily wedded pair never lived to bless each other. To Mr. and Mrs. Rupe four children have been born, three of whom are living: Louella V., wife of William McCarty, a farmer of Elk township; they are the parents of seven children, viz : Winnie, Dessie, Leo, Auberon, Ivan, Lauren- and Gerald. The. second daughter, Aldaretta A., is the wife of William Wellman, a rural route mail carrier of Gallatin, Missouri; they are the parents of four daughters : Zella, Opal, Crystal and India. Frank, the only son of Mr. and Mrs. Rupe, is a rural mail carrier and assists in the office very materially. He is married to Norva, a daughter of Marion Winter, of Clyde. Isetta died in infancy. "Mr. and Mrs. Rupe lived on a farm, within a-half mile of Clyde until 1884, when the Herald was bought from J- S. Paradis, who had established it in 1878." Since the Rupes have owned it, it has never missed an issue or been a day late — it is as sure to come out on W"ednesday as the sun to rise that day,, so long as they are responsible for its publication and physically able to get it out. For be it known that no outsiders are permitted to touch their vile hands to such a sacred family affair as the Herald. Mrs. Rupe, diminutive little body that she is, does all the type-setting, making up and locking the forms ready for press. She is a rapid type-setter and accurate. Mrs. Mary L. Rupe. 424 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Of course she learned the trade in the Herald office. The office is located in the rear rooms of their cozy but unpretentious residence, some little distance from the rush and bustle of the business houses, so that the Herald is a part and parcel of the Rupe household and home. Mrs. Rupe is so small of stature that she must needs stand on a box or sit on a high stool to put the types to clicking in her printer's stick; but she is a nervous, energetic little woman and seems never to be tired, and we have never yet seen her cross. The editor, our friend, John B., is of phlegmatic mould. He takes life easy and philosophically. He has one corner devoted to the sanctum, and in that corner, or, in summer time, out in front of the office door in the shade of a friendly box-elder, you'll surely find him, reading, writing or perhaps doz- ing a bit. "Both are earnest and enthusiastic members of the State Editorial Association and the North-Central Kansas Editorial Association, and Mrs. Rupe is the treasurer of the Woman's Press Association of Kansas. None are more welcome at the association meetings, none would be more missed were they to stay away. The Herald, it is true, is not what one might term a great newspaper. It has a monotonous, uneventful, placid existence, pro- viding a sustenance to its owners that might be better, yet they are content with what they have and thankful it is no worse. The editorial tone can not well be charged with being sensational — yet fireworks can be easily set in motion thereabouts if anything should be said to John B. in derogation of McKinley, the Republican party, or the Methodist Episcopal church. If McKinley should take a fit to set a match to the White House, or plow up the lawn in front of it, Rupe would weave a story in praise of his foresight in forestalling some evil design of the Populist party. Floods, cyclones, or earthquakes ha^e no terrors for John Rupe, so long as the Republican party doesn't burst up and the conference sends a good Methodist preacher to the church at Clyde. Drouths do not derange Rupe's happiness near so much as the defeat of a Republican candidate on the day of election. It makes no difference what the planks in the platform say, nor whom the convention designates to stand on the platform, they can bank for a certainty on one vote in Elk township for the Republican ticket. Aside frorn the extreme radicalism of our friend on these few points, the Herald is a strong sup- porter of good morals, adopts no subterfuge for policy sake and is out- spoken at all times. Their printing office is a bit out of date, as good coun- try printing offices go these days, but they do not whine because it is no bet- ter. The financial returns from their investment and their labor is not what one would desire, but they do not complain. Keeping well abreast of the times by much reading, enjoying fairly good health because of plenty of work to do, and blessed with contentment as a crowning glory for all, they are enjoying life's sunset midst the scenes that bring memories of sanguin- ary hopes and more youthful days. May they live long to bless mankind with their living lesson of contentment and loving devotion as husband and wife, is the wish of the Kansan." HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 425 FRANK B. RUPE. The subject of this sketch belongs to that band of noWe men and women called pioneers; who left their eastern homes to brave the dangers and hard- ships of the frontier. Mr. Rupe was born in St. Joseph county, Indiana, and emigrated to Cloud county March 26, 1866. He is a brother of John B. Rupe, the veteran editor of the "Clyde Herald." Frank- B. Rupe is justly proud of the distinction that he was the pro- moter of the first movement towards the organization of the present town- site of Clyde, the oldest town in Cloud county ; and was an important factor in the financial engineering of the enterprise. In the annals of the Elk creek settlement Mr. Rupe's name will always occupy a place of prominence for he has been conspicuous in every worthy cause and one of the leaders in Christian and church work. Mr. , Rupe has attained a fair success in life; owns two hundred and forty acres of land that is par-excellent in quality. The dugout and log cabin of early days have been supplanted by a commodious and handsome resi- dence which stands near the center of his estate and is charmingly located on the banks of Elk creek. The east and west branches of the Elk find their confluence on his farm. Mr. Rupe is known and appreciated as a gentleman of high integrity and public spirit. He is entitled to these eulogiums be- cause of his upright character and sincerity of purpose. DAVID TURNER, SR. In March, 1866, David Turner, Sr., the subject of this memoir, with his son James, while on a prospecting tour visited Kansas. After retracing their journey and making the necessary preparations at their home in Nebraska, they returned to the new country in the month of May, joined the Elk creek settlement and secured government claims. During their early residence in Kansas they endured many of the incidents of frontier life — and endured them bravely as one who dips into the future and is rewarded by visions of victory and prosperity. The beautiful suburban home they now occupy is the original homestead and proves the rare good judgment David Turner, Sr., possessed. The Irishman said: "Taking up land in Kansas is like betting $14.50 with 'Uncle Sam' against one hundred and sixty acres of land, that they could not live on it five years." But the Turners won out on this proposi- tion. F'rom the date of their arrival on Elk creek they have been prominent factors of Clyde and vicinity, figuring largely in every good enterprise. David Turner, Sr., was one of the original town company and helped lay out the city of Clyde. He was the first township trustee* of Elk township, one of the early county assessors and once elected county commissioner; though a staunch Democrat politically he received his first nomination through the Republican party. He was conceeded to be one of the best 426 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. commissioners Cloud county e\er had. He maintained a potent interest in all enterprises originated in behalf of the people; especially was his in- fluence given to the promotion of the public schools. For years he was a leading man in all matters pertaining to the schools of Clyde, serving several years as member of the school board. David Turner, Sr., descended from an ancient and honored Scottish family. He left Edinburg in 1849 to make a home in America. He first settled in Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he farmed with the zeal and energy of true Scotch yeomanry for fifteen years. Next they located in Minnesota, but twelve months later we find him with his son forging their way to the new west where as a result of earnest effort he accumulated a modest fortune and power for good, having left an influence with the locality where he was identified for so many years — a name above reproach. David Turner, Sr., was deceased August 19, 1897. Mrs. Turner, who survives him was Jean Law before her marriage and is also of Scotch birth. To Mr. and Mrs. Turner eight children were born and all arrived at manhood and womanhood and were useful men and women. James Tur- ner, the eldest son, is Clyde's enterprising furniture dealer, conducting the only business in that line in the city. He established this enterprise in 1883 and in the meantime purchased the stock of three different stores. James Turner is one of Clyde's most representative citizens and like his father is active in educational interests. He served thirteen years by election and an unexpired term by appointment as a member of the school board. No man is more interested in the developement and progress of Clyde or more loyal to the general welfare of the community. John, who was a prosperous farmer, died in 18S2. David, Jr., a furniture dealer of Anadarko, Okla- homa, was for many years a farmer and esteemed business man of Clyde. William and Alexander are farmers, living on the old homestead. Jean Margaret, is the widow of William E. Reid and the mother of Albert T. Reid, the distinguished artist, (see sketch elsewhere,) George S., Frank A., Llewellyn Arthur and Jean Lucile. Mary E., who died in 1882, taught in the public schools. Elizabeth, the youngest daughter, also taught school at Clyde, before her marriage to Thos. Owen. Her death occurred in 1891. The Turners are all Democrats politically. James Turner says the first time he voted in Cloud county there were but six Democratic votes in Elk township and three of those were accredited to the Turner family. In religion they are connected with and regular attendants of the Presbyterian church. URIAH J. SMITH. To the early settlers of Kansas, all honor is due. To the pioneer who bore the hardship and overcame the obstacles of frontier life, the present generation should take off their hats. The subject of this sketch, U. J. Smith came into the country when the territory was designated as the Great HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 427 American Desert, when destitute of law and order, and when the settlers were in constant fear and terror on account of the threatening perils that surrounded them incident to border ruffianism, and Indian depredations. He is not only one of the pioneers of Cloud county, but among the oldest settlers in the state. He, with his father Andrew Smith, emigrated west in 1855, and located in the town of Topeka, then a mere trading post. The following year, 1856 they removed to Cottonwood Falls, where they met with a serious misfortune — the death of our subject's mother. Mr. Smith had not attained his fifteenth year when he returned to his native state and enlisted in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth N*ew York Volunteer Infantry and partici- pated in some of the hardest fought battles in the history of the Civil War. His regiment took part in the battle of Harper's Ferry, Gettysburg^, Ream's Station, Appomattox Court House, Cold Harbor, The Wilderness, Peters- burg, and in the pursuit of Lee until the surrender. When this event took place the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth was a depleted regiment; both officers and privates came near being annihilated. Though ' constantly in the midst of .shot and shell, Mr. Smith escaped without a wound, but was made prisoner under the surrender of Colonel Miles. He was immediately paroled but only to be captured the second time by the cele- brated guerilla chieftain, Mosby, and confined in the noted Libby prison. He . was subsequently carried to Belle Isle, where he witnessed many appaling sights that corroborate the fame of this rebel prison ; but owing to his ex- treme youth Mr. Smith received better treatment than many of his comrades. Immediately after the close of hostilities Mr. Smith joined his father in Kansas, landing in the vicinity of Clyde on the last day of the year 1865, where he has been a prominent citizen for thirty-eight years; where he mar- ried, built up a home, and reared a family of useful men and M'omen. Though a tall, slim boy but eighteen years of age, he had served three years under Uncle Sam ; and this had in all likehhood stimulated his tastes for life on the frontier, for no sooner had he become one of them, and a scouting party was being selected to reconnoitre over the Indian hunting grounds than he would be one of the first to respond to the call. Mr. Smith, with Jack Billings, his comrade of pioneer times, have perhaps killed more buf- falo than any two men in the county. In the chapter of buffalo stories some of their experiences are given. Our subject's father, Andrew W. Smith, was a frontiersman for many years. Leaving New York, his native state, he emigrated in an early day to Wisconsin and thence to Kansas in 1855. Mr. Rupe, in his "Early Recol- lections," says of him in substance : "To oppose border ruffianism and min- gle with the sense of danger incident to those turbulent times was a source of amusement to Andrew Smith. He was not created as a leader of men, but a fitting representative of an advanced portion of the masses, consequently he maintained fixed principles with honest convictions, among them the be- lief that right should assert itself even though it be in conflict with the laws of the country, and in accordance with these views would violate the well known 428 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fugitive slave law^s with impunity. Many a southern darky has gained his freedom through Andrew Smith's connection with the underground railroad. He was a conspicious character in the early days of Kansas and came to the state with General James H. Lane, and Colonel E. G. Ross. He was a brave man, seemingly insensible to fear, even bordering on to recklessness, a trait that in all probability cost him his life. In October, 1886, Mr. Smith, in company with James Neely, and his son, the subject of this sketch, left the Elk creek settlement for the purpose of trapping. When about twenty miles west of where Cawker City now stands they were joined by a band of Otoe Indians. Mr. Smith was desirous of meeting a financial obligation and allowed the two young men to return home with a load of buffalo meat while he remained and trapped with the Indians and concluded with the re- mark, 'I'm going to pay that debt off or die in the attempt,' perhaps little thinking that this would be the last known of his earthly career. The Otoes declared he left them and was murdered by the Cheyennes, but suspicion pointed to them as being the guilty culprits who committed the dark deed, as the pony Mr. Smith had with him was afterwards seen in the possession of the Otoes." Andrew Smith was twice married, his second wife being Miss Mary Morley, now the wife of John B. Rupe. To this union one son was born, Owen Smith, who lives in Clyde and is an employee in the office of C. H. Armstrong. Uriah Smith, with Oswin Morley, naiTowly escaped the fate of the Lew Cassel party. Only a few days prior to the time, and a short distance from where their massacre took place, near the head of Little Cheyenne, they "vVere approached by three savages, followed by two others a few yards distant and still two more moving in that direction. Their attitude was that of hostile Indians with bows and arrows ready for action; but true to their Indian nature they determined to know the cost before acting. That each of the young hunters was well armed made the redskins cautious and it was observed by the boys that the redskins kept in the rear. Three of them \vere riding a short distance in advance of the other two and just before they reached their wagon the trio overtook them and shaking hands said, "Good Injuns." One of the other two proved to be a chief and he did not extend a friendly hand but in broken English said, "The buft'alo belongs to the In- dian." Mr. Smith told him to "puckachee," which they did not readily proceed to do. They presented a harrowing sight with their vivid war paint, a fantastic strip of hair through the middle of their heads, bows and arrows ready for use in one hand and reining their ponies with the other. Mr. Smith inquired, "Are you Otoes?" to which they replied they were; but our subject was familiar with that tribe and knew that they were not speak- ing truthfully. That their intentions were hostile could be discerned in the wicked gleam of their eyes, as they glanced from the guns in the possession of the two heroes to their own weapons. Anxious to avoid an encounter HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 4^9 Mr. Smith said, "Good-bye," and started in the direction of their wagon, but the chief said, "No wait," to which the hunters rephed, "No, we" re in a hurry." Growing more bold, the chief answered, "No, you can't go." Not heeding the command of the Indians they bade them good-bye and started. The Indians then formed a line and followed. After advancing a few paces Mr. Smith decided whoever began first would have the advantage, and suit- ing the action to the word suddenly wheeled about, drew his gun, and in tones even a savage could comprehend ordered them to "puckachee." They were disconcerted by this act of bravery, but the chief however, looked him straight in the eye for a moment while the others pulled away in a westerly direction. Maintaining his ground Mr. Smith told him in the same impera- tive way to go, or he would shoot him. The old chief sullenly obeyed but they dismounted when about a quarter of a mile distant and held a council. The other Indians who were riding in the distance joined them and they dis- cussed the situation, doubtless concluded two or more of their number must succumb while securing the booty, and left the young huntsmen masters of the situation. While this council was taking place Mr. Smith told Mr. Mor- ley to get the team in readiness and while doing so, our subject stalked over in the direction of the warriors and stood leaning on the muzzle of his gun until they departed ; singly riding away, reminding one of Goldsmith's lines : "He who fights and runs away, will live to fight another day ; but he who is in battle slain, can never rise and fight again." These courageous youths resolved that they were on dangerous ground and retraced their journey homeward. They had nerved themselves up to the ordeal but when the danger had passed they were almost ready to collapse. The Cas- sel party were massacred a few days later near where this event took place and in all probability this same band participated in their foul murder, and had it not been for their daring, they too would have met a similar fate, and had they not returned home via the salt marsh to procure salt for curing their buffalo meat they would have met the Cassel party of hunters. Mr. Smith arrived in Clyde on December i, 1865, with the teams that brought the Cowell and Davis stock of goods for the first store in Cloud county. There were but three houses on the town site. They were of log and occupied by Moses and David Heller, Tom Hay, and a Mrs. Berry. Mrs. Smith, who was Miss Mary Sitton, died several years ago, leaving a family of seven children : Lillian, Nelson, Daisy, Leroy, Walter, Honor and Leslie. Mr. Smith is a farmer by occupation and owns a valuable es- tate just beyond the city confines of Clyde. Besides being a practical farmer, he is a successful horticulturist and owns one of the finest orchards in the county. He is a member and one of the most active workers in the Methodist Episcopal church. JAMES W. BILLINGS One of the old landmarks of Cloud county and a trapper of the "6o's" J. W. Billings who came to Kansas in April, 1868, is a native of Michigan, born and reared on a farm situated near the lake. He is a son of Walter and 430 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Sarah (^^'ilson) Billings, both natives of New York, born near the city of Rochester. They settled in Michigan in 1835, an early period in its settle- ment and before there was a railroad in the state, traveling by the way of the lakes and Erie canal. The father died three years ago and his mother in 1881. Walter Billings was a soldier of the Civil war, serving in the Eighth Michigan Cavalry. He was captured and placed in prison, and from there was taken to Florence where he was detained six months, and during that period contracted disease from which he never entirely recovered. He drove one horse from Michigan to Kansas a half a dozen times or more and "Old Bill" was as well known as any of the Billings family. During the primitive days of Kansas J. W. Billings followed trap- ping. He associated himself with Sam Doran, Uriah Smith and Frank Rupe and arranged a bachelor home with all its comforts and dis- comforts. He followed trapping and hunting as a livelihood for several years. At first he sold to local buyers his numerous beaver, otter and coy- ote skins, later to New York, and more recently to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, which latter place he found to be the best market. He did not take up a homestead until 1875 and later sold eighty acres of his claim to procure a team, harness and wagon. The next year a prairie fire destroyed his team, harness and cow, leaving him nothing of his deal but the wagon. He is still fond of hunting and fishing, but now it is for pleasure and luxury, while in the early days it was a matter of necessity to appease hun- ger. His first buffalo hunt was in May, 1868. He was one of a party of eight who killed nine buffalo and one antelope the next day after staring out. In September of the same year,' during one expedition, they killed and dried a load of buffalo meat which in those days was a royal banquet. They did not suppose the herds that numbered thousands could so soon be extermi- nated. He has also killed many elk. Mr. Billings has farmed, trapped, taught school and done almost everything but preach, and possessed the abil- ity for that calling had he ever been in a position where his services were needed. He is of a family of trappers, and has three brothers, all of whom but one are fond of the vocation. Politically he is a republican but does not aspire to office. Two of his friends labored the greater part of one night to induce Mr. Billings to allow his name to be brought up before the convention as a candidate for sheriff, but he absolutely refused. Mr. Billmgs enlisted December 10, 1861, at the age of sixteen years and served almost two years in Company B, 13th Michigan. He was then transferred to the United States Signal Corps, served until the close of the war and was honorably discharged before he had attained his twenty-first year. His regiment arrived just in time to witness the finale of the first bat- tle of Shiloh. They were at Perrysville and Stone River where they lost heavily and at Chickamaugua where they only lacked one man of losing half their regiment, and of his immediate company of eighteen men, but four escaped. Mr. Billings enlisted as a private and was promoted to ser- geant. The captain of his company was wounded and Mr. Billings was Dr. D. F. Laughlin. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 435 placed in command, holding that position as a non-commissoned officer two months, at that time being but seventeen years of age. His company par- ticipated in the battle of Chattanooga and in the Atlanta campaign, and he was continuously in the ser\-ice except a brief time when home on a furlough. He was a brave soldier, always at the front in the thickest of the fight; was never sick, wounded or in prison and seemed to lead a charmed life. He was in die employ of the government after the close of the war, his corps being sent to Te:^as and discharged at San Antonio in May, 1866. He served under Generals Buell, Rosecrans, Sherman, Thomas and Sheridan. Mr. Billings ^,was also a member of the militia raised by the goveirnment to. protect the settlers on the frontier, ser\ing three months under the com- mand of Captain Sanders. Mr. Billings was married, in 1875, to Miss Kate Prince, whose par- ents are residents of Concordia, and were among the early homesteaders of 1871 in Aurora township. Mrs. Billings has taught several terms in the best schools of the county; she was engaged in the primary department of the Jamestown school one year. She is an untiring temperance worker. At the Grand Lodge of Good Templars held at Scranton, in October, 1900, she was appointed Grand Superintendent of the Juvenile Templars of the Inde- pendait Order of Good Templars, and unanimously re-elected at Clyde and Delphos in 1901 and 1902 respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. Billings three children have been born. Eugene, the eldest son is a resident of Clyde and emploj^ed as clerk in the L'Ecuyer gro- cery establishment ; he is married and has one child, a little daughter, Eunice, aged four years. Kate, is a prepossessing and intelligent young lady living at home, and Emory, the youngest son, assists his father oh the farm. The family are members and regular attendants of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Clyde. Mr. Billings has served two years as commander of the Clyde Grand Army of the Republic Post. "Jack" Billings, as he is known to all his friends, is one of the most highly esteemed citizens of the community in which he lives, and when he is spinning the hunting tales of pioneer days he seems to virtually live them over again, and as he rehearses these expeditions and adventures the suns of fifty-seven summers that have come and vanished for him, are forgotten — and he is "just as young as he used to be." — [Since the above sketch was compiled, Mr. Billings, who numbered his friends by the score, has been called to his "eternal home." He was one of the most companionable of men and a central figure in the group of pioneers, trapjiers and hunters of the ear- ly days. He was deceased early in May, 1903. — Editor. D. F. LAUGHLIN, M. D. Doctor Laughlin is one of the pioneer physicians of Kansas. His advent in Cloud county in 1869 brought with it a blessing to suffering humanity. He is a conscientious practitioner, and in the quiet hours of the night dips 26 434 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. deeply into the researches of science that he may devise a better or more speedy plan of restoring to health the life of some patient he has been implored to save. In the year 1859, Doctor Laughlin came to Leavenworth, Kansas, from Washington, Ohio, where he had taken a collegiate course. The parents of Doctor Laughlin had planned a ministerial career for their son, but the young student had views of his o\\-n, coupled with a strong will to bear bim out in the choice of his chosen profession, that of a physi- cian. To carry out his intentions he studied medicine clandestinely under Doc- tor Patterson, of Washington. Doctor Laughlin is a Latin and Greek scholar, a classmate" for three sessions, of J. Allen, D. D., of St. Louis, and James Alaxwell, D. D., of Boston; also William Kirkwood, D. D., formerly presi- dent of Emporia College, was a fellow student. During his residence in Leavenworth, Dr. Laughlin taught those classics in the basement of the Chri stain Church in that city, as a branch of Professor Reeser's school. Mrs. Fred Herman and the late Mrs. Ed Kennedy of Clyde were among his pupils there. Doctor Laughlin did not graduate from a medical college but gained his knowledge in connection with his collegiate course, and when convinced he was proficient, began the practice of medicine in Uniontown, Iowa. For a year prior to locating in Iowa, he was principal of the Parochial School in Sumner, Illinois. Upon the discovery by his parents that their son would not comply with their wishes in regard to the ministry. Doctor Lattghlin left home, thereby avoiding dissension and bitterness of feel- ing, as his father positively refused any assistance, although a man of wealth. The parents' ambition for his son to become a member of the clergy was too deeply rooted to be given over to the desires of his offspring, and thus, unless implicit obedience was adhered to, he resolved to retard the furtherance of his medical studies' by withholding financial assistance, thus curtailing his dearest hope and ambition. But "like father, like son," he never swerved his chosen path and unaided financially, reached the goal of his ambition. In the year 1869, Doctor Laughlin removed to Cloud county, homesteaded a claim where he lived one year, and then went to Clyde and established himself in his profession ; built up a practice on a foundation of stone and during this time thirty-seven physicians have come and gone like the tide of the sea, but his anchor is dropped in deep water. The Wilson -family, Doctor Laughlin's paternal ancestors, were of rugged mould. Judge Wilson, late of Concordia, is a branch of the same faiTiily. There were nine children in his paternal grandmother's family. When not only very aged, but blind, Thomas Wilson edited a newspaper in the State of Pennsylvania; and at a time when the sum total of his fam- ily's ages — nine in number — aggregated nine hundred years. The Wilsons are a family of remarkable longevity. Judge AVilson, well known to Cloud county people, is also of that rugged physique. Doctor Laughlin's father lived to see four score years and six. In religious persuasion they were staunch old school Presbyterian. Our subject's grandfather and his sister Ann, v.'cre attending school together, and fancying their master imposed HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 435 too strict a discipline upon his sister, declared to his mother, if it occurred again he would "thrash" the teacher. Directly afterward he had occasion to make his obligation good, which he did by' inflicting upon the offender the promised flogging. Fearing severe rebuke and punishment at home he boarded a vessel, leaving his native land, the "Emerald Isle," his home and his associates, and sailed for America. The Reverend Laughlin, for several years pastor of the Presbyterian church- of Belleville, was of this same lineage. Doctor Laughlin was married in 1858, to Esther Morrow, a sister of Senator Morrow, of Kansas. She was deceased in 1878. By this union three children were born. The eldest is Mrs. Frank Fessenden, whose home is Colorado; she is the mother of three children. The second daugh- ter, is Mrs. Lillie Cavenaugh, of Lane county, Kansas. The youngest daughter is a professional nurse in Honolulu, and has had an interesting career. She received a business education and went to Portland, Oregon, to fill the position of stenographer; but deciding upon the occupation of nurse, entered a hospital where she underwent a thorough training and became very proficient. There was a demand for nurses in Honolulu and Miss Laughlin was sent a passport by Queen "Lill" during her reign to take charge of the Queen's Hospital. Doctor Laughlin was married in 1879, to Agnes Sexsmith, a New York woman of culture and refinement. They are the parents of one child, a daughter, who bears her mother's name, Agnes ; she graduated from the Clyde High School in 1900, and is now a student of the Emporia College. Doctor Laughlin is a man of considerable literary talent and an indi- vidual who has delved deeply into the mysteries of science and possesses a mind well trained along those lines. He is an original, independent thinker, fearless in his oppositions to many conceded theories and is capable of dem- onstrating them with scientific principles. He is a lover of science and his ability is far above the average; many of his hours have been profitably spent in deep studies, both ancient and modern. Doctor Laughlin in pro- fessional and natural endowments is the peer of any man in the county. Mrs. Laughlin is a very estimable and cultured woman, a congenial com- panion who contributes to a perfect home life. BENJAMIN P. MORLEY. The Morleys were a New England family. The paternal grand-par- ents settled in Ohio in an early day where B. P. Morley was born in 1835, and where he lived until coming to Kansas in July, 1863. Mrs. Morley was born in the state of New York but moved with her parents when an infant six months old to the state of Ohio, and settled in Ashtabula county, on the shores of Lake Erie, where her father operated a saw mill and woolen fac- tory near Kingsville. Mr. Morley obtained employment at her father's mill and this w^s the beginning of an acquaintance which brought about their 436 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. marriage August i, 1859. They emigrated to Kansas in 1863, with their little family of two children and stopped enroute at Junction City, where Mrs. Morley had a sister living. They visited her family while Mr. Morley located a homestead in Washington county. Returning to Junction City, he filed on his land and removed his family to their new western home. Mr. Morley's parents were filled with a desire to join them on the frontier and followed their son soon afterward. Father Morley while driving up the cows- one evening saw his first buffalo. He became ^•ery excited and though a pious man not given to profanity or rough language, shouted out, "Benja- min! come and bring your gun if you want to see the devil." There were two of them and the next day they killed them both, and feasted for days on buffalo meat, that would have brought forth praise from the most epi- curean taste. The Morleys lived in a log house with the Brooks family while their house was in course of construction. AV'hile unpacking dishes they moved the barrel containing them from its corner and there lay coiled beneath it a huge rattler. Mrs. Morley made a hasty retreat, but upon being told the grass was full of them she chose the least of the two evils and returned. During their first autumn in Kansas the winds blew so furiously they were compelled to put up their hay at night and served midnight suppers for the hay makers. The following April, they attended divine services for the first timiC in the new settlement in an old log hut where Clifton now stands. R. P. West ministered to the congregation; and he was described as dressed in blue denim overalls and a blue checked shirt. The women of the congre- gation wo"e shawls over their heads; blankets and every conceivable sort of thing were donned as wraps. Mrs. Morley wore her usual "go to meeting clothes," and the settlers gazed at her with astonishment as if she might just have escaped from a menagerie, but withal they were an excellent people. This day is remembered by the pioneers as the "Black Sunday." On their return from church just as the team was being cared for an inky darkness OA'erspread the sky, the rain came down in torrents and necessitated the light- ing of candles, which were made of buffalo tallow. Almost every old set- tler has some particular kindness or incident to relate of R. P. West, whose name was a household word in every pioneer's home. The Morleys' little- daughter was ill and they had resorted to everything their wits could supply, and bad given up all hope of her recovery, when that good man visited their liome and through his skillful efforts the child was saved. "Vyiien Mr. Morley had secured his homestead he did not have a dollar left, but those goodly settlers gathered together and helped erect their cabin. They were neighbors in the truest sense of the word, and when one killed a hog or a beef, each of the settlers for a radius of miles came in for his share. The Morleys came to Clyde in 1877, and in 1892, bought the Judge Borton residence, a commodious house of ten rooms. Mr. and Mrs. Morley are the parents of eight children. They have bur- ied three sons ; one an infant, one at the age of eleven years and one a young. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 437 man of promise. Their eldest son, Charles, is a newspaper man and edited a paper in Clyde for several years. He is at present in the office of the Clyde Voice. William M., is a resident of Omaha. Their three daughters are married. One is living in Omaha, one in Arkansas and the other in Clyde. Mrs. Morley's paternal ancestors were from England and emigrated to America in the early settlement of this country. She is a daughter of Martin M. and Esther Jeaneth (Reynolds) Manning. The Reynolds were of Scotch origin. Mrs. Morley taught several terms of school in the early settlement of the country. The district then included a part of Washington, Clay and Cloud counties. Mr. Morley's father was Anson Morley. He was born April 7, 1798, in Barnstable, Massachusetts, and emigrated with his father's family to Ohio in early manhood. From Ohio he walked to the state of Vermont where he met and married Lorenz Cutting on October 30, 1822, and from this union ten children were born. They left Vermont in their early married life and settled in eastern "Ohio where he cleared his land and tilled the soil for forty-one years. They came to Kansas in 1863, and settled in what is now Elk township. Mrs. Morley died March 15, 1877, and her husband January 29, 1885. GEORGE FI. \ATLKES, SR. One of the many pleasant surprises that greet the visitor of Clyde is the comfortable hostelry which has been provided by George Wilkes, Sr., the .subject of this sketch. The Commercial Hotel was established in 1870, by Dan Lussadder. It was then a small frame building 16 by 24 feet in dimen- sions and two stories high. Shortly afterward Mr. Lussadder was con- victed of murder and sentenced to six years' confinement in the peniten- tiary. The hotel then fell into the hands of Henry Huff, who served the traveling public until George H Wilkes, Sr., assumed proprietorship in 1878. Since that date it was un- der his management, with the excep- tion of one 3'ear, until the death of his wife three years ag'o, when his son George H. Wilkes, Jr., assumed charge, keeping the house up to its usual good standard. During \lf. Huff's reign, six rooms were added, two on the first floor and four on the second. In 1884, Mr. Wilkes built an addition of four rooms and made an entire change of the interior. A year later he increased the capacity of the hotel by the erection of a brick addition, including an office and four guest chambers with basement under the entire structure, and the following year The Commercial Hotel of Clyde. 438 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. put in steam heat. The hotel is situated on a block of ground 198 by 138 feet with a spacious lawn and fine shade trees, whose overhanging boughs impart a cooling shade, and give an air of comfort on a sultry summer day. Cattauraugus county. New York, is the birthplace of Mr. Wilkes. His paternal grandfather was one of the thirteen men who came over with LaFay- ette during the Revolutionary war; he was a musician. The Wilkes are of French origin and their advent into America dates from that time. They settled in Connecticut. In 1853, Mr. Wilkes began his career by going to New York City and working on the Crystal Palace which was being erected for the Word's Fair, and had the subordinate management of the arcade. In 1854, he came to Chicago where he railroaded in various capacities; was con- ductor of a passenger train for four years. During his residence in Chicago a company was formed among the railroad men^for duty in the Civil war, but Mr. Wilkes could not pass muster. He subsequently accepted a position as traveling salesman and considered Chicago his home until after the big "Chicago Fire." Thinking the city would never rebuild, he turned his atten- tion in the direction of Kansas, establishing the first hotel of any consequence in Belle\-ille. From there he went to Washington, Kansas, and later to Cuba, Kansas, where he engaged in the mercantile business , at the same time own- ing a farm sixteen miles north of Ch'de. He sold these interests in 1878 and enacted a good deed for Clyde when he opened a hotel with such excellent accommodations. Mr. Wilkes was married in 1858, to Susan I.j'^man, who died January 23, T864, leaving one child, a son who died one ye.ir later. In 1866, be was married to Eliza J. Faroll, a young woman of Irish birth who came to Amer- ica in her childhood. By this marriage seven children were born, three of whom are living; George H., Jr., the present manager of the hotel (his family consists of a wife and three sons. Earl and Walter, two handsome and re- markably bright little fellows of ten and eight years, respectively, and Dick, aged one and one-half years) ; Edward J., of Kansas City, and a daughter, Courtney Grace. Mr. Wilkes is a Mason of twenty-eight years standing; a Knight Templar, Blue Lodge, and a Shriner. He is a democrat politically, and a member of the city council. He is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Wilkes has in his possession one of the rarest 'knd most extensive collections of United States and foreign coins owned by any one individual in the state. The author is indebted to Mr. Wilkes for the following descrip- tion: "In this country, wdiere everything is comparatively new, anything old or antique always attracts great attention. Large sums are paid for old fur- niture, such as andirons, candlesticks, spinning wheels, crockery, clocks, glass-, ware, old arms, books and paintings, and recently old coins have been added. The local newspapers often publish long editorials about some curious coin. This is of what I want to speak. There are but few people who arc posted on this subject and very few who know when the first coins were issued or William Emery Smith. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 44 1 what denomination it was. The first authorized coin by congress, as near as I can fiiid out, was the Frankhn cent, coined in 1787. This is a very curious piece of work having on one side the rising sun and sun-dial with the word "Fugio,"' meaning Frankhn, and date; under the sun-dial these words: "Mind Your Business." On the reverse side it has thirteen links connected together, with this inscription : "We are one United States," making a very neat and interesting study. About that time there were quite a number of pennies of Washington, the most of which were struck in England, but they had nothing to do with the United States, although they were used as money and were called Washington coins and tokens. Of these there was a great variety and it would take too much space to attempt to describe all of them. There were a great number of miscellaneous coins in circulation until con- gress authorized the coinage of silver and copper coins, which was about 1792, when the act of April 2d authorized the coining of- one-half pennies, iveight one hundred and thirty-two grains. Weight changed, act of January 14, 1793, to one hundred and four grains, and act of March 3, 1795, to eighty- four grains. Coinage commenced in 1793, and discontinued in 1857 of this denomination; authorized act of July 6, 1787, caused to be coined for the United States by James Jarvis, of New Haven, Connecticut, the so called "Fugio" or Franklin cent ; the regular large copper cents were authorized act of April 2, 1792, coinage commenced in 1793 and discontinued in 1857, there were none coined in 1815. Authorized act of February 21, 1857, to coin nickle cents, seventy-two grains, regular coinage commenced in 1857, a few were coined in 1856, coinage discontinued in 1864. The bronze cent comes next authorized April 22, 1864, weight forty-eight grains. Two cent bronze, act of April 22, 1864, weight ninety-six grains, discontinued in 1873. Three cent nickle, act of March 3, 1863, weight thirty grains, discontinued 1873. I'^ive cent nickle, act of May 16, 1866, weight seventy-seven and six- teen hundredths grains, coinage commenced in 1866. This is a short sketch of all the coins except the silver and gold issues of the United States." AVILLIAM EMERY REID. The public spirit entertained by the late William E. Reid entitled him to a place in the rank of prominent citizens. As an official he was keen, discriminating and exact; as a banker and business man, cautious and con- servative; as a citizen he was accorded a place among those whose influence was wielded for the welfare and business interests of the people and for the advancement of the country. He was a man of scholarly attainments and his ability was recognized by all. During the 'seventies there was no citizen of Cloud county who was more intimately associated with its business inter- ests, or who. held a higher place in the confidence and esteem of the people. Mr. Reid Avas born in Lanarkshire, Scotland, March 13, 1844. His father, John D. Reid, survives him and has been an extensive contractor, con- structing several hundred miles of the Dubuque & Sioux City, Burlington & 442 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Missouri River, Pacific & AA'estern Union, and other railroads. He opened quar- ries at Joliet, and there obtained the stone for the construction of the capitol at Nashville, Tennesseee, for which he had the contract. He has also been prominent in the political affairs of Wisconsin. He now resides at Ocono- mowoc, AA'isconsin, retired from the farm life he has been following in recent years. Our subject's mother also sur\'ives him. Before her marriage she was Janette Gourlie, and is an accomplished woman. Mr. Reid received his rudi- mentary education in the schools of Nashville, Tennessee. He later entered the Union High School, of Joliet, Illinois, and subsequently graduated from the Spencerian National Business College of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and taught in the latter institution for one year. He was ambitious, even as a young man, taught school in winter and worked on the farm in summer, as a stepping stone to something more in keeping with his tastes and desires, until in 1870 when he came west. After traveling over various parts of Neb- raska JMr. Reid drifted down into Kansas and located in the new western town that did not bear a very strong resemblance to the present thriving little city of Clyde, and when the whole Republican valley was but sparsely settled. He homesteaded near the town, improved the land, but engaged in the mer- cantile business and afterward taught two terms of school at Clyde. Mr. Reid held offices of trust and honor. In 1870 he was elected the first Clerk of the District Court of Cloud county and was re-elected in 1872. In 1871 was elected county clerk and re-elected in 1873; holding both offices two terms. In 1875 he was elected county treasurer, re-elected in 1877 and held the office four years. He was also the first agent of the Central Branch Railroad at Concordia. He was a member of the Concordia City Council for several years and was one of the foremost in every worthy project. He was a friend and worker in educational affairs; was a director of the State Normal School of Concordia. He was a director of the Republican Val- ley Railroad, director and secretary of the Atchison, Republican Valley & Pacific Railroad from Concordia to Scandia and an officer and director of the Central Branch of the Union Pacific. Socially he was a Mason and Knight Templar of high standing; also of the I. O. O. F., and had passed all the chairs of these orders. Politically he was a republican. Mr. Reid was engaged in newspaper work at one time and while under his control the policy of the Expositor was changed to republican. A year prior to our subject's locating in Kansas City, where he died in less than four months, he was associated with his brother, Walter G. Reid in the banking business at Smith Center. Mr. Reid died April 8, 1887, at the age of forty-four years, leaving a wife, four sons and one daughter who survive him and reside in their pleasant suburban home at Clyde. JMrs. Reid before their marriage, June 9, 1872, was Jean ]\I. Turner, -one of the estimable daughters of the late David and Jean Law Turner. CSee sketch) Mrs. Turner is a sister of Doctor James Law, president of ■Cornell LTniversity Veterinary College, which position he has filled since HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 443 this seal of learning- was instituted over thirty years ago. Mrs. Reid's fam- ily consists of Albert Turner (see sketch). George St. John, their second son, is manager of a large manufacturing company at St. Louis. He was married October 15, 1902, to Miss Sibelle AVaite a very excellent young woman of Greenville, Illinois. Frank, the third son is now connected with one of the largest railroad construction companies in the country. He is a graduate of the law department of the Kansas University. Llewellyn Arthur, the fourth and youngest son is physically disabled; the effects of illness that occurred in his youth. But the unfortunate result does not prevent him from taking a lively interest in the affairs of the day, nor make him a less genial and companionable fellow; nor is life" to him by any means a solitary existence, for he is sanguine, full of hope, and a great student, his mother's compan- ion and counselor. He is talented in art and music, and his literaiy efforts have already been extensively copied. Jean, their only daughter, is just dawning upon womanhood. She is a student on her first year in the Clyde High School and is a gifted musician. HONORABLE AA". S. CRUMP. Among the oldest residents of Clyde is W. S. Crump the subject of this sketch. In outlining Mr. Crump's career it can be said he is not only a mem- ber of the first hardware store of Clyde but has been one of the most pros- perous business men and higly respected citizens. He has managed his affairs with judgment derived from both ability and experience. For several years he was associated with Mr. Bartlett under the firm name of Bartlett & Crump. They were the first firm of hardware men established in Cloud countv, in 1S69. Mr. Crump is a native of Indiana, born in Bartholomew county, near the city of Columbus, on a farm in 1837. He is a son of William H. and Sarah (Smith) Crump. His parents died when he was young, leaving a family of four children, only one of \\hom beside himself is living — a sister who resides in Indiana. Air. Crump lived on a farm until the breaking out of the Civil war when he became a sutler's clerk in the southern department of the United States army and was on duty through Tennessee', Kentucky, North Caro- lina and Alabama. Air. Crump was married on January i, 1861, to Sophronia Fish, who died in January, 1863, leaving two infant sons, Charles and Harry; the for- mer is express agent with residence in Clyde, and the latter a farmer near Santa Fe, Monroe county, Missouri. In 1889, Mr. Crump was married to Martha Russel and to their union one -son has been born, AA'^irt R., who is in his father's employ. Mr. Crump affiliates with the Republican party and has always been prominently identified with political affairs. During his residence in Man- hattan, Kansas, where he located in 1868, and before becoming' a permanent resident of Clyde in 1872, he ser\-ed on the board of councilmen which was 444 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the beginning of his political career in Kansas. In the spring of 1872, he was elected a member of the school board of Clyde and in 1875 a commissioner of Cloud county from the first district. In 1874, he was elected mayor of the city of Clyde and has served three dififerent terms as member of the coun- cil. In 1880 he represented his district in the Legislature and served with distinction. In 1885, he was elected police judge and in 1888, justice of the peace. Bartlett & Crump were succeeded by Rushmore & Son, and during an interval of several years between that event and embarking in the second enterprise of 1896, Mr. Crump was appointed, during Governor Martin's administration, a member of the State Board of Charities. He held this office from the spring time of 1885 until 1889. He has been treasurer of Elk town- ship for several years and is the present incumbent. Mr. Crump has been a Mason since 1855, and one of the charter members of the Blue Lodge and of Concordia Chapter of Clay Center. Mr. Crump owns a handsome residence property on Green street, where many of the old settlers located and have grown fine shade trees, making it one of the most desirable localities in the city. Mr. Crump is a man of fine business qualifications and when he re-established his store in 1896, his old customers fell in line to give him a patronage he had won by former years of honest dealing. He is a sagacious business man and his store is complete in its line. Mr. Crump has made a success of life and is a leader in every good enterprise and is one of Clyde's foremost citizens. ALBERT TURNER REID. It is with pardonable pride that the people of this vicinity speak of the celebrated artist, Albert T. Reid. He is referred to as one of the most dis- tinguished men Cloud county has ever had among its citizens, in a way that reflects credit upon his high order of talent. Concordia is the birth place of this rapidly rising young man, but in the beautiful little city of Clyde, his more recent home and where his mother still resides, he first gave • evidence of the great talent he possessed and has suice developed, making him nationally famous as a cartoonist and illus- trator. Mr. Reid is loyal to the friends of his boyhood days and to the place of his nativity. He refers to Clyde and Concordia people with a feeling akin to reverence and fully reciprocates their attachment for him and their unbounded interest in his career. His father, the late W. E. Reid, having been a lawyer and banker, the son was reared with the supposition that he would follow in his father's footsteps. Hence, little or no attention was given the artistic ability he evinced at an early age, and to which all his energies were concentrated until his unusual talents stood forth unchal- lenged. While a mere boy he won the prize offered by the Mail and Breeze of Topeka, for the best cartoon, among any and all competitors. That he car- Albert Turner Reid. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 447 ried away the honors from among the seventy-five sketches submitted proved him to be endowed with more than ordinary skill. That was the turning point in his life. Since then the demand for his wojk has steadily increased until he stands today pre-eminently among the best illustrators and car- toonists. His work is characterized for its strong originality. Pie is still a young man on the sunny side of middle life, full of aspira- tions, and possessing the ambition to execute them, he has not yet reached the climax of his career. At the beginning of his career in art, he spent three years on the Kansas City Star. From there he went to the New York Her- ald and then to the staff of "Judge," and became one of the contributors to McClure's Magazine. . All westerners are especially acquainted with his regu- lar contributions in the Kansas City Journal and the Topeka Mail and Breeze. His cartoons ,have made him a power in politics. "In Varying Moods," a charming little volume, one of the poetical gems of the day, by William Hamilton Cline, is beautifully illustrated and decorated by Mr. R^id. His excellent drawings in "Cupid is King," by Roy Farrell Greene, have been highly praised by the best critics in the country. An admirable collection of his humorous drawings illustrates Tom McNeal's Fables. * Mr. Reid is not only gifted in art, but plays the piano with a skill that denotes more than ordinary talent and has composed a number of pieces. Band masters Sousa, Innes and Sorrentio have personally complimented his "Guardians of Liberty," march, and have played it to enthusiastic audiences during their tours.^ Lew Dockstader, the famous minstrel gained many an encore with Mr. Reid's "Dat Meddlin' Coon." Mr. Reid is unostentatious in his bearing and retains the simplicity of manner that would mark the earlier years of a man's life before known to fame. Instead of a misguided enthusiasm, what he has accomplished is only an index of what the future holds for him, and although he is well known, is still rising in prominence in the art world. The self-reliance he was called upon to exercise in his work undoubtedly developed his talent and his intel- lectual faculties as well. Natural ability, coupled with his zeal, established for him a reputation accorded to but few western artists. The wedding of Albert T. Reid and Miss Vera Low, which occurred in October, 1902, was one of the most brilliant events ever celebrated in Topeka. Mrs. Reid's talents will enable her to keep pace with those of her husband, for she is an accomplished musician of rare ability and possesses a beautiful voice. She is a leader in the social world. Mrs. Reid is the daughter of Marcus A. Low, General attorney of the Rock Island Railroad. She is the original of many of Mr. Reid's pen and ink girls. Mr. and Mrs. Reid's beautiful home at Thirteenth and Fillmore streets in Topeka, is one of the most attractive in that city of homes and the studio on the third floor is an interesting workshop, from which Mr. Reid turns out the cartoons that provoke mirth, and mould public opinion and the illus- .trations that adorn the pages of magazines and books. This is the home of the "Reid Girl." 448 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. THO^IAS JEFFERSON JACKSON. T. J. Jackson is one of the pioneers of Kansas. He settled temporarily in Irving, Marshall comity, in 1866, where his wife had relatives living. In December of the same year he located a claim in Shirley county (now Cloud) in that part of Lawrence that was afterward included in Elk town- ship. He still retains the homestead which he traveled all the way from Indiana to secure, but lives in the city of Clyde where he has made a com- fortable home. He met with many hardships and his courage was extin- guished to the extent of desiring to return to his home on the Wabash, but he was too poor for the undertaking. He lived on his homestead nearly thirty years and unlike most of the. Kansas farmers, never had a mortgage hanging over his head. Mr. Jackson was among the party who engaged in the search for Miss White who was captured by the Indians. He has killed many buffalo. A^Hiile on one trip in the region of the Salt Marsh, his party was compelled to stop while a herd of buffalo passed. There were thousands of them packed closely together. As they approached, their hoofs sounded like the rumbling of distant thunder. The company repaired to a Knoll and waited for them to pass which required about two hours. The herd was a quarter of a mile in length. The buffalo did not seem excited but marched in an unbroken line. The birthplace of Mr. Jackson was Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born in 1829. His mother died when he was a boy and he was reared in the home of an uncle in Logansport, Indiana, until the age of eleven years, when he began life for himself. Mr. Jackson has a brother, Noah M., living at Afton, Union county, Iowa, and a sister, Mrs. Martha A. Bully, near Eaton, Ohio. Mr. Jackson was married in 1848, to Mary E. Short, who was born in Dela- ware, in 1 83 1. She is a daughter of Joe and Nancy (Benson) Short. Her father was born in 1812, and her mother in 1810. Aaron, William and Reu- ben Short, well known citizens of Concordia are her brothers. Another brother, Jacob Short, is a resident of Florida. The youngest brother lost his eyesight from fever at two years of age and died when eleven in Indian- apolis. To Mr. and Mrs. Jackson eight children have be.»n born, five of whom are living. jMartha, -wife of Sherman Baker of Riley county, Kansas, a prominent farmer and stockman. John Marion, a successful man engaged in the implement business in Clyde. Edward Washington, deceased in infancy. Mary Ann, deceased at the age of ten years. Schuyler Colfax, died at the age of two years. Ella Etta, an invalid. Lucy May, was the first girl baby born in the Elk creek addition ; she is the wife of C. E. Merritt, a hardware man with residence in Augusta, Oklahoma. Mary Elizabeth Shayler, with her two .children, Walter A. and Lottie L., make their home with the family of her father. • Mr. Jackson votes the Republican ticket and cast his first ballot for Winfield Scott. In state affairs he has supported that party ever since. In local affairs he gives preference to the best man. For many years Mr. Jack- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 449 son was an anti-secret society man, but overcame his prejudices twelve years ago and became a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson are members of the Christian church and are also active in temperance work. To see Mrs. Jackson one would not suppose she had passed through the vicissitudes of life and reached the mile stone of three score and ten, as she looks a much younger woman. ]\Ir. Jackson is an hon- orable, honest man, held in the highest esteem by his neighbors and friends. DAVID HELLER. No man is more justly entitled to space in these records of Cloud county than David Heller. Sparsely as the country was settled it made a contribu- tion of men to Uncle Sam and among that number was Mr. Heller. He enlisted April 3^ 1862, and was mustered out March 5, 1865, serving three years. He was in four different engagements, the most prominent of which were Cane Hill, and Prairie Grove. He was the second treasurer of Cluod county and held that office two terms. Was appointed captain of the militia by Governor Harvey, and was one of the tljree commissioners under an act of the legislature making it their duty to estimate the damages done by dep- redations of the Indians. It will be observed that these elections and appoint- ments were of a high order and were not misplaced. He was always ready and willing to serve at the post of danger. Whenever there was an excursion to be made on account of Indians David Heller was sure to be among the number. His record is a proud one and worthy to be handed down to pos- terity. A. W. CAMPBELL, M. D. The career of Doctor Campbell was a checkered one and though he may have had faults all concede \\\s virtues were many. He was one of the old settlers of Clyde and contributed to many a sufferer. AVhen called to a sick bed would render all the assistance in his power. He was kind and sympa- thetic and the hungry never left his door unfed. He had held the position of United States examining surgeon since the war. Doctor Campbell was born in Brooklyn, East Canada, in 1834. He died October 2, 1880, leaving a daughter twelve years old. Mrs. Campbell died four years prior. He was buried by the Masonic brotherhood and Grand Army of the Republic, having been a member of both societies. JUDGE LORENZO WESTOVER. ' Judge Westover who died in Wichita county, Kansas, October 31, 1893, was a conspicious character in Cloud county. He settled in Riley county in the spring of 1855, and Avas one of the first settlers. He came to Clyde in 4SO HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 1870, where he became one of her most distinguished citizens. He was at one time county attorney of Cloud county, but his special efforts were towards prohibition and female suffrage. Originally he was a Whig, then a Republi- can and lastly a third party Prohibitionist. He was a man of many enemies and is said to have taken advantage of Charles French, his step-son, whose guardian he was, taking from him something like nine hundred dollars, which caused the people of Clyde to entertain unpleasant recollections of him. ANDREW J. BRADFORD. A. J. Bradford was one of the early settlers of Clyde and experienced many incidents of pioneer life and met with many reverses, among them los- ing nearly all his children within a brief space of time. He served one term as under sheriff of Cloud county a short time before his death. Mr. Brad- ford was an old soldier. He was a member of Company G, 2d Colorado Cavalry, under the leadership of Captain Boyd, and a comrade of J. B. Rupe. Mr. Bradford was born at Middlesex, Pennsylvania, in 1844, and died in Concordia, December 24, 1893. Mr. Bradford was a pioneer, coming to Kansas in 1866. He was a brave and honored soldier, a patriotic and highly respected citizen. JOHN HENRY HUFF. J. H. Huff was for twelve years the genial proprietor of the Clyde House, (now the Commercial). He was a prominent citizen and came to Clyde in 1871. He served several times as marshal and on the board of council. He ran for sheriff in 1882, and was defeated by Dan Wilson. Two years sub- sequently ran again and was defeated by Ed Marshall. Mr. Huff was an old soldier and spent eighteen months in the Andersonville prison. He died at his home in Kingfisher, Oklahoma, February 11, 1894. His remains were brought to Clyde for burial where he had a son and two daughters resting in Mt. Hope cemetery. CHARLIE DAVIS. Charlie Davis, one of the oldest settlers of Cloud county, was the first merchant the county ever had. He opened a store in a log cabin in Clyde in 1865, where he remained until 1873, when he moved with his family to Glen Elder, Kansas, where he lived until his death, April 2, 1881. E. D. NEELY. E. D. Neely, now of Crowley, Texas, was one of the pioneers of the Republican valley and for a long time the outside settler on the north side of the Republican river where the buffalo grazed around his house. His HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 451 old homestead was the farm now owned by Peter Pistch. Mr. Neely was the first probate judge of Cloiid county and figured in all the incidents of the early settlement of the county. Was one of the party who discovered the awful fate of the Lew Cassel party. ROBERT H. VINING. The late Robert H. Vining came to Kansas in March, 1868, and located on Elk creek, in Republic county. On January i, 1869, he was married to Martha J. Oliver, who survives him and is now living in Clyde. Their wed- ding was distinguished as the first marriage ceremony performed in Repub- lic county, and by the Reverend R. P. West, the pioneer preacher of both Republic and Cloud counties. Mr. Vining was born in Henry county, Illinois, in 1846. Though very young, in March, 1862, he enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Infantry. He lost a leg in the battle of Kenesaw Mountain and was discharged at the United States hospital at Camp Douglas, Illi- nois, in February, 1865. Mr. Vining was patriotic and proud that his lost limb was given to the cause of his country. He was well known throughout the northwest and had served as marshal of both Clyde and Concordia. On October 12, 1888, this old pioneer's sudden death was announced. Mr. Vining was familiarly known as "Peggy," and was buried with patriotic honors, his body wrapped in the emblem of his country. There is a bit of sentiment in connection with this. Some time before his demise Mr. Vining and Jacob Sohlinger entered into an agreement by which the surviving party should prepare a flag to enwrap the body of his dead comrade. True to his obligation, Mr. Sohlinger prepared the stars and stripes used for that purpose. Mr. Vining was manager of the Western Detective Agency of Clyde, which was established in 1879. FRANK HOAGLAND. Among the early settlers of 1865, who took an interest in the welfare of Clyde was F. Hoagland. He started a blacksmith shop in connection with B. V. Honey, living in Clyde for several years, when he removed to Ellsworth county, Kansas. Mr. Hoagland was a highly respected citizen and enter- prising man. RANDAL HONEY. One of the most prominent of the old settlers of Elk township was the late Randal Honey, born at Windsor, Vermont, February 2, 1820. Mr. Honey came of hardy, loyal New England stock. His grandfather served in the Revolutionary war and his father, Joseph S. Honey, fought under General Wade Hampton with the Army of the North in the War of 1812, 4 52 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. taking part in the famous battle of Plattsburg on Lake Champlain, in the autumn of 1814, when two thousand British attacked the American forces numbering but fifteen hundred, and were repulsed and driven back. In 1838, when eighteen years of age, Randal Honey moved with his parents to Trumbull county, Ohio; the trip was made by way of the Erie canal and lake steamer. After locating at this point he learned the carpenter trade; though he did not follow it through life, it served him well in after years in helping build up and improve a new country. On February 3, 1842, he was married to Miss Polly A. Phillips, of Trumbull county, Ohio. The hearts united on that day remained linked together not alone by the laws of the land, but by bonds of love and tender- est affection \^'hich grew stronger, tenderer, sweeter as the years rolled by till death bid them part more than three score years later. P^or sixty event- ful years this couple journeyed side by side along the pathway of life; strongly up the steeps of life, bravely along the crest of middle age, trust- ingly, peacefully, serenely, down the western slopes toward the setting sun. In 1856 Mr. Honey and his family moved overland to Wisconsin,' locating in Jefferson county. Here they made their home until March, 1864, when the homestead lands in the great new west prompted another change and they came to Kansas, locating in Cloud county (then Shirley). ]Mr. Honey took his homestead on the Republican river at the mouth of Elm creek, eleven miles east of where Concordia was located several years later. The homestead taken at that early day was still his when called to his eternal home thirty-eight years afterward. When Randal Honey and his little family arrived there were but eight families located in the little set- tlement on the banks of Elm creek. The vast stretch of prairie on all sides furnished grazing ground for countless thousands of buffalo. The nearest postoffice and the nearest store were sixty miles away. Every family within forty miles were neighbors. Only people who have helped develop a new country can appreciate the homes obtained by these pioneers who risked their lives and braved the hardships and privations incident to the frontier. Mr. Honey built for himself a hewed log house and laid therein a puncheon floor. That house stands today, but with its shingled roof and siding over the logs it would scarcely be recognized by those who saw it a third of a century ago when it was the most commodious house in the county, and sheltered all the inhabitants of the settlement on those nerve-trying nights when Indian rumors filled the air and it was uncertain whether or not the morning dawn would find all scalps in place. In those early days Indian raids were com- mon, bountiful harvest uncommon and tried men's nerves and tested their courage and resourcefulness. Through all those years of danger, hard- ships and privations, through Indian scares, hot winds, grasshoppers and other discouragements, the subject of this sketch never wavered; with un- shaken faith in the future of the country, with calm determination and a resourceful nature he bore his full share of the burdens and with a willing hand lent courage to others. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 453 A great reader he kept posted on the events of the times and took a lively interest in politics, but quiet and unassuming, he never sought polit- ical preferment. To him, home was everything. Probably the only ofifice he ever held was that of postmaster at Elm Creek before and during the time of the Waterville-Beloit stage line. PIver brave hearted and cheerful, always good natured and generous to a fault he had no enemies and his friends were limited only by the extent of his circle of acquaintances. Such in brief was the life of this good man and when the summons came March 5, 1902, he met his death as he had met the difficulties of life, calmly, peace- fully, and with a heart as pure and a faith as simple as that of a child. His aged wife, his companion for sixty-two years, two daughters and two sons survive him. The four children are Mrs. Rosella Wilcox and Mrs. Kitty Zedeker, both of Cloud county; Elson H. Honey, of Cuprum, Idaho, and Henry R. Honey, of Mankato. His eldest daughter, Rosella (Mrs. Matt Wilcox), taught the first school, and hers was the first wedding sol- emnized in the county. — [The above in substance was taken from the Man- kato Advocate. — Editor.] THE FARMERS' VOICE. The Farmers' Voice was first issued by the Farmers' Voice Company January 21, 1901. It was instituted to advocate the principles of the "Farm- ers' Alliance." J. J. Henley assumed control April 14 of the same year and a few months subsequently purchased the interests of the other members of the company. The paper has been continued along the same lines — stead- fastly advocating the principles of the Populist party and Democracy ; always staunch for fusion and fusion principles. The Voice is classed as a Demo- cratic paper, but it has always' advocated the same policy. J. J. Henley was born in Randolph county. North Carolina, January IT, 1849. He was reared and educated in the common schools of that locality. Mr. Henley was a pioneer of Kansas, having come to the state in the autumn of 1869. In the spring of 1870 he homesteaded the northwest quarter of section 35, town 5, range i, across the Republican river, just one-half mile south of Clyde. From 1876 to 1887 Mr. Henley followed mining in Arizona, but returned to Cloud county and took up newspaper work. Mr. Henley was married in 1893. His family consists of a wife and two engaging children, Edna, aged seven, and Bryan, aged five. JOHN M. THORPE. One of the pioneers who shared in the hardships of the frontier and one of the "main stays" of the new settlement was John M. Thorpe. He came to the county in company with J. M. Ilagaman, whose lives having been spent on the wild prairies together made them bosom friends. Being the head of a family Mr. Thorpe did not enlist in the army but was patriotic 27 454 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. enough to contribute two sons. Mr. Thorpe was the first justice of the peace with jurisdiction extending over the whole county. There were not many law suits but he became a sort of general expounder of tlie law and people accepted and were usually satisfied with his decisions. However, the early settlers had enough to employ their time without going to law. For a considerable length of time there was no regular physician this side of Manhattan or Junction City. This want was supplied by J. M. Thorpe who apparently possessed considerable knowledge of the human system, with remedies for its disorders. Many can testify to having been brought back to health through his treatments. He generally performed these duties gratuitously, and in this way made himself very useful. However, the people were generally hale and hearty, as no one would come so far away from medical aid who was not. Mr. Thorp removed to Russell county and in losing him the county sustained a loss not easily repaired. MOSES HELLER. "Uncle Heller" as he was known, was looked upon as the father of Clyde and surrounding country, having been one of the first to erect his log cabin in the Republican valley. He was among the first and ranked with the most prominent of the first settlers. Coming west in so early a day and at an advanced age, proves him to have been a man of great pluck and energy. He was a man of exceptional integrity and justly enjoyed the confidence and respect of the whole community. He settled in Elk township in the year i860, when but few men had traversed this sec- tion, and located where the beautiful little city of Clyde now stands. He enjoyed the honor of being the first postmaster in Cloud coimty, a position he held until the latter part of the 'seventies, receiving the appointment from Montgomery Blair, in 1864. Old age was the cause of his resignation. Prior to the establishment of the postoffice at Clifton, he used to carry the mail from Clay Center to Clyde in his hat, and distributed it among the settlers. The nearest postoffice was Manhattan, but Mr. Huntress, who was living in Clay Center, was interested with a business firm at Manhattan which took him there every week; on his return he would bring all the mail for the settlers as far as his house. Uncle Heller would go there after it, per- forming the trip most of the time on foot, a distance of twenty-five miles. He deposited the mail in his hat Moses- Heller. (Reproduced by the Author from an old photo" graph kindly submitted by John Ran- dolph of Clyde. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 455 placed it on his head and started homeward, where the settlers were anxiously awaiting his arrival. Considering these were war times his coming must have been watched for with great eagerness. When asked if he received any compensation for his trouble he remarked in the nega- tive, adding, he was glad to go for nothing. This service he performed for over two years. Having a son in the army from whom he was always anxious to hear no doubt made the task much lighter. Mr. Heller was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, September 2, 1800; emigrated to the state of Kansas in 1856, and to Cloud county in August, i860. He was among the three who were appointed county com- missioners by the governor at the organization of the county and was elected to the same office by the people of the county at the next general election, and was made chairman of the first board of county commissioners. Although not a member of the church he had a high appreciation of Chrislain religion. His house was the first in the count)' thrown open for public worship and also the first in which a Sabbath school was established; in fact his house seemed to be the radiating center for everything and everybody. Mr. Heller's house was a sort of gateway to all the old settlers west of him and many a new comer has partaken of his hospitality. No one entertained more strang- ers or fed more of the hungry than he. Lie was also a man of great courage, which at one time was put to a severe test. A company o'f soldiers coming through on horse back planned to frighten him. They took their places in single file, rushed toward the house on a run giving vent to a war whoop. Mr. Heller thought of course they were Indi- ans, seized his two six shooters which be constantly kept ready for use, placed himself at the window ready to pick off the redskins one by one, as they made their appearance over the rise at the Elk creek bridge. When the first one put in an appearance Uncle Heller saw his mistake and was so overjoyed that he met them with both weapons cocked, forgetting to lay them down. The soldiers laughed and made merry, but concluded that such indulgences might terminate seriously when dealing with such characters as Uncle Heller. Mr. Heller is destined to live long in the memory of all old settlers. His frank and genial countenance left an impression that time can not easily efface. THOMAS WILLIAMSON. The advent of, Thomas Williamson in Cloud county, in March, 1866, was exceedingly opportune, for up to this time, with two or three exceptions perhaps, there were none who made any pretentions of Christianity. In the Elk creek settlement there was but one, Andrew W. Smith. On the second Sabbath of Mr. Thompson's arri^'al he was the instigator of a prayer meeting held at the house of Andrew Sm.ith, and through him mainly these meet- ings were kept up for some time. Ke was an incessant worker and labored under the severest discouragements. He united with the Baptist church (his persuasion) on Fancy creek, Riley county, which was forty miles or more 456 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. distant, and has been known to repeatedly drive that distance to attend the church of his choice. Soon afterward, through his efforts and the assistance of the Reverend Cloud, a church was established on Elk creek, the first church building erected in the county. It was a very weak concern and had it not been for his untiring energies would have been a complete failure, the congregation often consisting of Mr. Williamson and his wife. Had it not been for him the church would probably ha-ve never been built. Mr. Williamson was born in Huntingdon county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1809. His field of usefulness was mainly in the ecclesiastical or re- ligious work and he had a record in this capacity. REVEREND F. D. BAKER. Reverend F. D. Baker had charge of the Clyde Methodist Episcopal church from 1885, until the present year (1902) when he went to Beloit, Kansas. Mr. Baker comes from a family of divines, his father having been a minister and an uncle, John Baker, was a prominent preacher. Reverend Baker's relationship as pastor so many years in Clyde resulted in much good. F. K. TETER. F. K. Teter came to Cloud county in 1870, and settled in Clyde where he became associated with Walter Herman, and was an important factor in the building up of Clyde, one of the pillars of the Baptist chuixh and a prime mover in every worthy enterprise. He had been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows over fifty years. Mr.- Teter died in Mena, Arkansas, October 17, 1900, at the home of his son-in-law, Ed Roach. OBADIAH THOMPSON. The subject of this sketch is Obadiah Thompson, who came to Cloud county November 8, 1865. He was a native of Wisconsin. Mr. Thompson was an old soldier of the Fourteenth Wisconsin. He joined that regiment November 8, 1861, and was mustered out Tune i, 1865, serving over three years and six months. DiU'ing this time he was in some very severe engage- ments, among which were the battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth an'd Tupelo, in the Siege of Vicksburg and the celebrated Red River expedition, and several other engagements. He lived a retired life and stood high in the esteem of his neighbors and friends. DONALD McINTOSH. One of the old settlers who withstood his share of the trials and con- flicts of frontier life is Donald Mcintosh. He came from Canada where he was born, to Cloud county, May 29, 1866. In his life there is a bit of inter- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 457 esting history. He was one of the "Lopez Fihbustering Expedition" which had for its object the annexation of Cuba to the United States, and trans- pired in 1850. A short sketch of this affair is given in Barnes' history, page 193. The expedition consisted of three ships. Two of them were captured by the Spanish ship Tizezara, and Lopez and the ofificers were exe- cuted. The captain of the ship which Mr. Mcintosh had the good fortune to be on kept up a good steam and by throwing overboard all their cargo reached a neutral fort and evaded the enemy who were in close pursuit. There were six hundred in this expedition. Mr. Mcintosh enjoys the honor of being among the few survivors of the crew, and perhaps the only man in the state of Kansas, who was on that expedition. HENRY SARGEANT. Henry Sargeant homesteaded the Jack Billings' farm but shortly after- wards removed to Clyde where he was prominently connected with many en- terprises. He was an old soldier of the Mexican war and was also a veteran of the Civil was and an active G. A. R. member. He had charge of the cemetery, was janitor of the school building for several years — and was truly faithful. His daughter, Mrs. Eiiza Farmer, was a Clyde teacher for a number of terms and for efficient work in that capacity is deserving of special mention. ROBERT E. STIMSON. An old resident of Clyde and vicinity, and an old veteran of the Civil war, who served his country well, is R. E. Stimson, of Clyde. He visited Kansas in the spring of 1866, en route home from Utah, where he was a member of General Custer's brigade. Mr. Stimson experienced nearly five years of United States service. He enlisted directly after the battle of Bull Run in July, 1861. He participated in the battles of Winchester in 1862, Culpeper Court House, Cedar Mountain, the second battle of Bull Run, Fredericksburg, Virginia, and Gettysburg. He was in the cavalry fight at Brandy Station, covering Meade's retreat, where from twenty to twenty- five thousand cavalry were engaged. Also at Mine Run, Bucklin's Mill and through the entire series of the battles of the Wilderness. He remained with the campaign until the explosion of the mine at Petersburg. After this event he went with General Sheridan to the valley of the Shenandoah and was in the battles of Fisher Hill and Cedar Creek. He spent the next spring with Grant's army in front of Petersburg. Mr. Stimson had many narrow escapes from death. He was wounded in a saber charge at Gettysburg and taken prisoner at Five Points, Virginia, just prior to the surrender of Gen- eral Lee. He was wounded on the 3d of July, but entered the service again December 21, 1863. During the summer of 1864 three horses were shot from under him; one of them at Bethseda church, near Cold Harbor. At -438 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the close of hostilities between the north and the south Mr. Stimson's regi- ment was taken across the plains by the Colonel commanding Fort Bridger, where they were on duty until March 24, 1866. Immediately afterward' he started with a party of nine comrades who emigrated along the valley of the Platte river, through Kansas to his home in Michigan, where he resumed farming and married Miss Helen French. In 1868 they emigrated to High- land, Kansas, and to Cloud county in May, 1870, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land three miles north of Clyde. He sold :his farm in 1886 and removed to Clyde, where he has since resided. Mr. Stimson was born in Ontario county. New York, in 1843. When sixteen years of age he went to Michigan, where he had an older brother and began life as a farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Stimson have been born three sons : Clarence, aged twenty-eight, a baker with residence in Concordia ; his family consists of a wife and one child, Roland, aged twelve months. Ernest, aged twenty-six, is night central line man for the Clyde Telephone Company. Louis, aged twenty-four, is an employe of the Santa Fe Rail- road in Topeka. Politically, Mr. Stimson is a Republican; is the carrier of the rural free mail delivery, Route No. i. He is a member of the Mod- ern Woodmen and the Grand Army of the Republic. FRANCES HAY. There are many avenues of business and employment open to women, 'but the flour, feed and coal establishment conducted by Miss Frances Hay, -of Clyde, is rather out of the ordinary, but this intelligent young business woman has demonstrated that good management is more to be desired and :more essential tlian the muscular strength of the opposite sex. Miss Hay embarked in this enterprise August 13, 1901, and has built uij a lucrative trade. She is a daughter of G. W. Hay, who was among the very early homestead settlers of the Sibley neighborhood. During the Indian uprisings the family removed to Iowa. Returning a year later Mr. Hay bought a pre-emption claim of a man named Simon, one mile east of Clyde, where his family of five daughters grew to womanhood. Their mother died ^^•hile these children were young and their father married again. By the second marriage there was one daughter and two sons. Their father, G. W. Hay, died in 1887. Clara, the eldest daughter, was one of the early Cloud county teachers. She taught two years in the Clyde schools. She is now Mrs. Miller, of Clif- ton. The other daughters are Eva, wife of W. L. Brandon (see sketch). Ella, wife of L. B. Haynes, a harnessmaker of Salina, Kansas, and Inez, wife* ■oi T. M. Brown, of Walsenburg, Colorado. Mrs. Brown has clerked in several of the different stores in Clyde and for several years was engaged in the millinery business in Hebron, Nebraska, and Ellsworth, Kansas. She was married in June, 1902. Miss Frances Hay's early educational advantages were good and she HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 459 held a position as assistant in the county clerk's office during Charles Proc- tor's reign and in the district clerk's office with Mr. Hostetler. She taught school successively for several years, beginning when very young. She was one of the first corps of instructors in the Miltonvale school building. In 1901 she did kindergarten work in Lincoln, Nebraska. GIROUX & LAVALLE. The enterprising firm, Giroux & Lavalle, dealers in hardware, tinware, pumps, pump fixtures and tanks, is composed of Joseph Giroux and Amedie Lavnlle, Mr. Giroux is one of the hundreds of French Canadians who have settled in and around the vicinity of Clyde and like many of thei-n he has prospered and be- come prominent in business circles. He is a native of the province of Quebec, born in 1865. When a small boy his par- ents located in Kan- kakee, Illinois, where he received a business education. In 1879 he came with his fa- ther's family to Kan- sas. His father is Francis Giroux, a re- tired farmer and hotel keeper now re- siding in Clyde. He owns two good farms in Cloud county but has never lived on them. One of them is situated one mile south and one mile east of Clyde, the other five miles south and one mile west. He at one time owned the Iowa Hotel, which he sold in 1892. Mr. Giroux's mother was Petrilone Larreaux of French Canadian birth. His grandpar- ents from both sides of the house were of France and among the early set- tlers in the province of Quebec. His mother died in the summer of 1902. Mr. Giroux is the only son of six children. His sisters are Mrs. Itzweire, of Arizona, Mrs. Mathews, of Los Angeles, California, Mrs. Girard, of Lin- coln, Nebraska, and Mrs. Juneau, of Clyde. By a previous marriage he has a half brother, Francis Giroux, Jr., of Dallas, Texas. Mr. Giroux was married in 1896, to Irene Longton, a daughter of Naphile Longton, who has been- a citizen of Clyde for many years. Mr. Giroux has been engaged in various enterprises; clerking and was in the An Interior View of Giroux & Lavalle' s Extensive Hardware Store. 46o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. restaurant business in Washington, Kansas, two years. They are members of the Catholic church. Amedie Lavalle, the junior member of the firm is a young man of pub- lic spirit and progressive ideas. He is a native of Kankakee, Illinois, born in 1868. He came with his parents to Kansas in 1879, and settled in Con- cordia, where he received his education in the high school of that city. Before taking up his residence in Clyde in 1899, he was engaged in business in Beatrice and Riverton, Nebraska. In 1902 he became associated with Mr. Giroux in the hardware store. He was married in 1898 to Jennie Longton, a sister of Mrs. Giroux. Mr. Lavalle is interested in a half sec- tion of land with his father-in-law, two miles east of St. Joseph, Kansas, which is mostly pasture land. They have a herd of one hundred head of native cattle. They are members of the Catholic church. Mr. Lavalle is a member of the order of Catholic Foresters and Triple Tie. The firm of Giroux & Lavalle have one of the most handsomely ap- pointed hardware establishments in the county. They make a specialty of the Dempster and Fairbanks windmills and pumps and have a large patron- age in that line. They have an established trade in the Garland, Majestic, " Quick Meal and Acorn ranges and are gratified with the record they have made in that line. Their stock is composed of clean, well selected goods, both shelf and heavy hardware. They are enterprising young business men and are on the road to success. Individually are held in high esteem as good citizens. JOHN M. DAVIDSON. The subject of this sketch, J. M. Davidson, is one of the original set- tlers of Republic county. He left his home in Belleplain, Marshall county, Illinois, in the autumn of 1870, and wintered in Nebraska. In March of the ensuing year he emigrated to Kansas and homesteaded land on Elk creek, in Richmond township, Republic county. At the age of fourteen years Mr. Davidson was apprenticed for three years to G. W. Derry, of Vermont, Illinois, a blacksmith, at thirty dollars per year. Our subject was married in 1856 to Miss Mary Hull, of Vermont, Illi- nois. She died in Cuba, Kansas, in 1888. To this marriage three sons and one daughter were born, viz: Levi, born in 1857, is a resident of Norwalk, Ohio. John A., born in 1858, a liveryman of Cuba, Kansas, is an extremely successful business man. Mary Etta, born in i860, is the wife of G. W. Warren, of Hastings, Nebraska. Mr. Warren is a railroad conductor now in the employ of the Michigan Central. Robert, born in 1861, is a miner of Leadville, Colorado. Mr. Davidson was married to his present wife in 1891. She was Mary F. Campbell, of St. Louis, Missouri. Her parents died when she was a child, leaving three orphan children. The others are ]\Irs. VanGordon, wife of Dr. H. N. VanGordon, a veterinary surgeon of Clyde. A brother, William Edward, is a farmer of Phelps county, Missouri. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 461 Mr. Davidson built the first dwelling house in the town of Cuba, Republic county, and established the pioneer blacksmith shop there. He owns a busi- ness house and a residence property there at this writing. He did blacksmithing from the founding of Cuba until 1894, when he became associated with John Frederick in a shop in Clyde, succeeding Mr. Frederick's father, -Clyde's pioneer smith. The firm has recently dissolved partnership. Mr. Davidson has sold his residence and expects to return to Cuba in the near future. \Vhen Mr. Davidson came to Kansas his finances were limited and he witnessed many discouraging days, living on com bread and corn coffee. There was not much demand for blacksmithing in the early 'seventies and Mr. Davidson secured a job of cutting cord wood. He pro- cured a new ax and about the first time he made use of it almost amputated a foot which practically disabled him, but the wolf stood at the door, and for months he rode ten miles to his work. Mr. Davidson has participated in numbers of buffalo hunts. \A'^ould often take his family and go camping. While on one of these trips they were in the midst of a stampede, the buffalo coming in droves down a ravine and almost capsized their wagon. From this herd Mr. Davidson killed three. When on a hunting expedition with a friend, John Garrett, they arose early one morning to find the country east and west of them a perfect sea of buffalo. They killed nine of them before breakfast. By way of expressing their feelings on this occasion, Mr. David- son archly remarked, "Roosevelt's overcoat would not have made us a vest that morning,"' as they reported their bounty. When hunting buffalo to secure their hides they have brought down as many as one hundred and fifty in one trip and sold them as low as fifty cents each. Upon one of these hunts they were caught in a snow storm near the Colorado line. When they arose in the morning they found upon the swell of ground where they were camped the "beautiful" had fallen to a depth of about three feet. They were not pre- pared for such a storm and with their horses came very nearly perishing. Luckily they had plenty of feed for their horses and buffalo meat for them- selves, but their clothing was insufficient for such a storm. During this blizzard a herd of thirty or forty buffalo passed near the camp, but with iheir benumbed and gloveless hands they could not prepare for action and allowed them to pass unmolested. On several occasions they brought home buffalo calves, one of which he raised to be more than a year old. Mr. Da^■idson is an old veteran of the Civil war. He volunteered his services to the Union army in the Fourth Illinois Cavalry, Company G, under Captain Harvey D. Cook, with Colonel T. Lisle Dickey in command. He continued in this capacity from September, 1861, until he was discharged and relieved in 1864. He was chosen orderly to General Wallace. For a considerable length of time his regiment was body guard to General Sher- man. At the national encampment held in St. Louis a few years ago Mr. Davidson was the meansi of identifying and bringing together two brothers of his company who had not seen each other since the war. Mr. Davidson's parents are both living in Mackinaw, Taswell county. 462 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Illinois, at the advanced age of eig-hty-eight and eighty-seven years. His mother was Mary Ann Hill, a daughter of Colonel Ira Hill, who partici- pated as a leader of a regiment in the war of 1812. The Davidson family had a reunion in 1899, after a separation of seventeen years. The eldest and yoimgest children of the family had not met* for twenty-four years. This venerable couple celebrated their golden wedding and upon this occasion about four hundred guests partook of a wedding feast spread on long tables in a grove, that fairly groaned with its weight of good things. Mr. Davidson is a "dyed-in-the-wool" Republican and the first police judge in the town of Cuba. He is a Mason of prominence and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for seventeen years, and has been associated with the Clyde Grand Army of the Republic since its organiza- tion. Since the above data was prepared Mr. Davidson and his family have removed to Cuba, their former home. Mr. Davidson and his wife are good citizens, hence Clyde's loss is Cuba's gain. LOUIS J. BANNER. Louis J. Banner, the genial and accommodating agent for the Missouri Pacific Railway at Clyde, was transferred to that city from Glen Elder, where he had been stationed for several years — March i, 1898. O. K. has doubtless been stamped to his credit in the various branches of his railroad career, for he has been associated with the present company since 1893, ^'^^ but sixty days respite. Mr. Banner is a native of North Carolina, born in Banners Elk, a sum- mer resort named in honor of his father's loyal patriotism during the stir- ring times of the south. Our subject's paternal and maternal grandparents were slaveholders, but freed them during the war. All the Banners in the mountain district of the Carolinas were slaveholders, but they were Repub- licans, freed their slaves and fought in the Union army. His father, Will- iam D. Banner, was a sergeant of Company A, Fourth Tennessee Regiment of Volunteers. He also had four brothers who served under the stars and stripes. Se\'eral of the relatives were southern sympathizers, among them a maternal uncle, who was visited by a band of Confederates, with a batter- ing-ram and tried to compel him to join their forces. He shot one of the rebels and the body was left on the doorstep all night. The uncle afterward joined the Union. Although born in the south Mr. Banner is a Kansan and was reared in the vicinity of Clyde. He visited the place of his birth about ten years ago and after being introduced to a score of relatives, a "darkey," who had been a family slave, was presented as a "cousin," bringing to mind the story of an unsophisticated old lady, whose husband had been elected "squire." When the announcement of his honored position was made, the half dozen or more of children clamored around the maternal parent arid eagerly plied her with questions, one hopeful saying: "i\Ia, are we all squires?" Where- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 463 upon the supercilious mother, with lofty pride, i-esponded to the inquiry of her offspring: "No, you silly •; no one but your 'Pap' and I." Mr. Banner's father came to Kansas in 1870 and located in Clifton. Ten years later he removed to Vining, which was then a flourishing town, where he was postmaster for fourteen years, and where he still resides. He owns a drug- store and does an extensive business. Mr. Banner's mother was Sally B. VanCannon, of North Carolina. Her mother is enjoying life at Banners Elk, at the age of ninety-one years. She passed through a siege of la grippe in 1901. Mr. Banner was married in 1892 to Ida Z. Miller, a daughter of J. T. Miller, who homesteaded near Palmer, Kansas, in 1870. He later resided in Clifton, where he conducted a merchandising business for fifteen years. He is now retired and lives in San Antonio, Texas. Mr. and Mrs. Banner are the parents of two little daughters — Vera, aged ten, and Margaret, aged six. In 1901 Mr. Banner established a marble works in Clyde, under the name of the Clyde Monument Company, situated at the corner of Wash- ington and French streets, with A. H. Lewis, a practical and competent workman, in charge. Their trade is far reaching, receiving orders from many outside towns in northwest Kansas and various Nebraska towns. Mr. Banner plays the saxophone in the Clyde Military Band and to him is con- ceded much of the success of this popular company. Socially Mr. and Mrs. Banner are among Clyde's most esteemed citi- zens and as a railroad agent our subject is universally admitted to be one of the most congenial in their employ. W. A. HUFF. W. A. Huff, editor and proprietor of the Clyde Republican, is one of the rising young newspaper men of Cloud county. He has been practically reared in a printing office; began setting type as a printer's "devil" when eleven years of age in the office of H. J. Hulaniski, the well known journalist, at that time of Glen Elder, now editor of the Ouray Plaindealer of Ouray, Colorado. Since that time Mr. Huf¥ has been continuously associated with newspaper work and has been interested in different enterprises along this line, leasing offices, etc. Mr. Huff has recently put in a one and one-half horse-power gasoline engine and removed the plant from his small frame building, near the foot of Washington street, to the second floor of a substan- tial brick structure in the business part of the city. The Clyde Republican is a well printed four-page sheet, with a large circulation. Mr. Huff is a Repub- lican, not aggressive in his opinions, yet has the moral courage and fearless- ness to express his views through the columns of his paper. Beside newspaper work all kinds of job work is done. Beginning with 1890 Mr. Huff edited the Huron World of Huron, Atchison county, Kansas, for five years. Mr. Huff was born in Ekldyville, Wapello county, Iowa, in 1874, and came to Kansas with his parents in 1880. After living in Concordia three 464 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. years, they removed to Glen Elder, where they resided ten years and where Mr. Huff attended the high school, and later received an academic educa- tion in the Goelette Academy, of Mitchell coimty, Kansas. Mr. Huff's maternal grandparents were instrumental in establishing this school, which is a Quaker institution. Mr. Huff's parents are M. A. and Ruth (Hadley) Huff, both descendants of old Quaker families. Our subject's grandfather, who was at one time at the head of the Quaker church in Mitchell county, is now living with his daughter in Iowa and is ninety-seven yearsi old. His father, M. A. Huff, now lives in Jackson county, Kansas. The Huffs orig- inally came from Germany. His grandfather came to America and settled in Indiana, where M. A. Huff was born. The Hadleys came from England and were of the William Penn sect of Quakers. Mr. Huff was married in 1896 to Cora Godown, of Beloit, a daughter of A. L. Godown. She is a graduate of the Beloit high school and a refined gentle woman. Her mother was a Dixson and in her father's family is a deed for one hundred and sixty acres of land where a part of the city of London is located, written some two hundred years ago. Mr. and Mrs. Huff are the parents of two bright little boys, Gerald and Harold, aged four and two years, respectively. Mr. Huff has been for more than two years a mem- ber of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and is master workman of the Clyde lodge. He is a member of the Sons and Daughters of Justice and several fraternal orders. He is also interested in the Beaumont Lawton Oil Company, of Lawton, Oklahoma, he being assistant manager of the cor- poration. HONORABLE JAMES J. McFARLAND. The subject of this sketch, J. J. McFarland cast his destiny with the fu- ture of Clyde on the afternoon of St. Patrick's day, 1871. He is of Irish parentage but of English birth and emigrated to America when a lad of less than a dozen years and settled in the vicinity of Poughkeepsie in the state of New York. After having lived a short period in several of the New Eng- land states. Judge McFarland removed to Michigan in 1854. The state militia was organized under Captain Gibbons and after an effort to enter the ranks of the loth, 12th and 13th regiments, they were taken into the 13th Michigan. Judge McFarland was appointed lieutenant through service rendered but the Governor was desirous of besfowing special concession upon the son of an old friend, and our subject surrendered his papers that the young recipient of the Governor's favor might be commissioned to the ofifice of lieutenant. Judge McFarland was then assigned to the Quartermaster's department where he remained until the close of the war. They were cap- tured twice having their horses confiscated and their wagons burned. Their movements were confined to West Virginia and the regiment witnessed the sur- render of Lee at Appomattox. After this event took place Judge ilcFarland HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 465 entered the employ of the Government and was stationed at Richmond, Vir- ginia, until coming to Clyde in 1871. In the meantime he had read law in the city of Richmond and was admitted to the bar of Cloud county in 1876, and during his professional career has managed many technical cases with dexterity and skill. Judge McFarland was married in 1869 to Mary Frances Dandridge, a cultured . southern woman who traces her antecedents in a straight line to the ancestors of Martha Washington. Judge and Mrs. McFarland are the parents of eight sons and one daughter, all of whom are living ex- cept one. Their eldest son served in the Philippine war. Two are residents of Saint Louis and two in Chicago. Claude, the youngest son, lives at home. The Judge and Mrs. McFarland live with their widowed daughter, Mrs. Mary Bechard, who is one of the most charming and accomplished young women of Clyde and a popular favorite with her associates. Mr. Bechard died in 1901, leaving his young wife and one little daughter, a remarkably bright and interesting little girl, Mary Frances, named for her grandmother. Judge McFarland has been a life long Democrat and has been elected to several local offices : Mayor of his town, a member of the council several times and police judge. He was appointed postmaster under Cleveland's administration and Mrs. Bechard as his assisstant made a very efficient clerk. C. F. LESLIE, M. D. In gathering material for biographies of the representative citizens, Doctor Leslie is found among the forem.ost — not only as a zealous, pains- taking and faithful practioneer, but one of Clyde's best and most esteemed citizens. Doctor Leslie pursued his medical studies at Dartmouth, New Hampshire, and Bowdoin College, Bowdoin Maine, graduating from the lat- ter institution in 1874, and entering upon the practice of medicine in Sunapee the Saratoga of New England. After a successful career there of seven years he removed to Windsor, Vermont. There he contracted lung trouble and came west with the intention of locating in California, and stopped enroute to visit friends in Clyde. It was in the boom days of 1885, and he was very favorably impressed with the country and its prospects. Here he found not only a good country but remained permanently and recovered his health, gaining from one hundred and twenty-five pounds, (his weight at that time) to one hundred and eighty pounds. Doctor Leslie was born in Patton, Maine, April 16, 1847. He was reared on a farm. His father was a second cousin of Salmon P. Chase. The Leslies were of English origin. Doctor Leslie's intentions were to study law amd he mapped out a career for that profession, but changed to the study of medicine. He was married in 1875, to Ellen I. Balloch, of Cornish, New Hampshire. Their family consists of a son and a daughter. William B. graduated from the Emporia college and altered upon the study 466 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of law in the office of yir. VanDeMark, of Clyde, later entering the law school at Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he continues at the present time. The daughter Alice, is talented in music and is a graduate of the Clyde high School. Doctor Leslie affiliates with the Republican party. He is the surgeon for the Union Pacific and Missouri Pacfic railroads and was one of the board of pension examiners. The family are members of the Presbyterian church of which Doctor Leslie is an elder. He has been a Mason for a dozen years and is a member of the order of ^yoodmen and the Ancient Order United Workmen. CHARLES H. ANGEVINE, M. D.. The subject of this sketch, Doctor C. H. Angevine, traces his lineage back to the old Huguenot family who originated from Anjon, France, where Portrait of Dr. C. H. Angevine and a View of His Beautiful Modern Home. the Angevine Castle stills stands as a monument to the race. One branch of the family were wine merchants of Bordeaux and the wine that bears their name originated with them m the vineyards of that locality. Doctor Ange- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 467 vine's paternal grandfather was a weaver of silk arid followed that occupa- tion after their advent in the state of New York, and our subject remem- bers hearing the merry hum of the spinning wheel and witnessing the deft fingers transform the silken threads into beautiful shimmering cloth. He was a personal friend of Tom Payne, the celebrated author. He was also a seafaring man for many years and gathered many relices from different countries and ports. Of these interesting heir-looms a number are in pos- session of Doctor Angevine; among them his old log books, giving detailed accounts of shipwrecks, experiences at sea, etc. He was among the early settlers in the primeval forests of Ohio before there was a shadow of the now populous city of Cincinnati. A portion of the old estate is still retained by the Angevine family. He lived to be a very old man and with his venerable wife of fifty years celebrated their golden wedding. On this important oc- casion he exchanged a $100 bank note for one hundred gold dollars, present- ing one to each of his guests who congratulated them. He had two left, the aged couple each keeping one for themselves. Dr. Angevine was a guest of this memorable golden wedding. Doctor Angevine has an ancient Bible which contains a list of the con- tributors who subscribed towards having the volume published. He also has a silver plate that was a bridal present to his grandmother over a cen- tury ago. His father was one of seven sons, none of whom ever reared a male child except the father of our subject. The great commonwealth of Ohio was the birth place of Doctor Angevine. He was born in the month of July, 1856. At the age of eleven years he removed with his parents to Ottawa, Illinois. In 1872 he returned to Cincinnati and apprenticed himself to A. C. Hill, a druggist of that city and subsequently entered the Cincinnati College of Pharmacy, graduating from that instituion in 1876. ,He came to Clyde in May, 1887, and became associated with E. S. Pit- zer in the drug business. In 1890 he purchased Mr. Pitzer's interest, be- came sole proprietor and in addition to his profession continues to conduct an extensive drug business. Doctor Angevine's preliminary medical studies were pursued while engaged in pharmacy and supplemented by a regular course. In December, 1901, he was granted a certificate to practice medicine by the Kansas State Board of Medical Examiners. His aim has been to keep abreast with the advances made in the science of the medical world and with this commendable object in view he has been a careful student and reader of current literature along those lines. His life has been an active one and he is now in the prime of his useful career with bright prospects for in- creasing success. Doctor Angevine was married to Miss Julia Leland, of Ottawa Illinois, in June, 1889. Their beautiful and modern home is brightened by the presence of three children, two sons and a daughter, viz : Leland Charles, Dorothy Lou, and Monfort Edward, aged eleven, eight and five years, re- spectively. Doctor Angevine is a staunch supporter of the Democratic party and takes an active interest in political and legislative affairs. 468 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. SAMUEL DORAN. Samuel Doran. Samuel Doran is one of the early settlers and prominent men of Cloud county, emigrating to Kansas in January, 1868, homesteaded a claim in Elk township and has been a continuous resident ever since. Mr. Doran was born in West Virginia in the year 1838 and was reared on a farm. His parents both died when he was but twelve years of age and their orphans took diverging paths, Mr. Doran drifting to Ohio when seventeen years of age, followed soon after by a broth- er and sister, who married and moved to Kansas, which was the main-spring of the others emigrating to the state of great pos- sibilities, where fortunes do not lie scattered loosely about but can be dug out of the soil. Mr. Doran has two brothers, David, of Re- public county, and Daniel, of Cloud. Both of their grandparents were slaveholders. Mr. Doran received his education at Otterbein University, Ohio. After teaching a short period he entered the Lebanon Nor- mal School and later the Central College at Amalthea. Mr. Doran is self-educated and from his emoluments as a teacher paid for instruction at schools and colleges. From the age of nineteen until his enlistment in the army Mr. Doran taught school. His duties of army life were in the signal service of the Western Army, where he remained for two years and three months. He was mustered out at San Antonio, Texas, going thence to Pike county, Illinois, where he taught during the winter of 1866-7. While in college he studied civil engineering. In the years 1869-70 Mr. Doran was appointed probate judge to fill out the unexpired term of John Fowler. In the year 1870 he was elected county superintendent, hold- ing the office with credit six years. In 1872 he was elected surveyor and held that position two years and by appointment was given the same office in the year 1879. For the first two years he held both the offices of superin- tendent of public instruction and surveyor. At the expiration of that time he drew a salary, but could not attend both; as the greater part of his time had to be given to the duties of county superintendent, he resigned his office as surveyor. He later took up surveying, which he followed from the year 1884 to 1892. Was elected to the office of county surveyor in 1898 and has held the position up to the present date. During the session of the last con- vention some of his friends asked him "How long he was going to hold forth?" Mr. Doran took the strap ofif from his compass box that he had carried thirty years and replied, he wanted it replaced by one that would last HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 469 another thirty years and at the expiration of that time he "would not care who carried it afterward." Mr. Doran was married in the year 1872 to Mary McDonald, of Repub- lic county, Kansas. Three children have blessed their union: Albert E., Arthur L. and Myrtle. The eldest is a farmer near Clyde. The second son IS a bookkeeper located at Barstow, California. Myrtle is in the sophomore class in the Clyde high school. Mr. Doran owns a block of fruit and garden ground adjoining Clyde. In politics Mr. Doran is a Republican and cast his second vote for Abraham Lincoln, but was reared a Democrat. He is a Mason of over thirty years standing and also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and Ancient Order of United Workmen. He has figured very prominently in the early and modern history of Cloud county, his serv- ices as superintendent of schools in earlier days is an important part of the history of Cloud county. Mr. Doran is well known and well respected by both colleagues and citizens. HONORABLE WILLIAM L. BRANDON. No one in Clyde is held in higher esteem than W. L. Brandon, pro- prietor and operator of the Clyde elevator. In 1877 Mr. Brandon, accom- panied by a party of six relatives and friends, left their homes in Illinois to travel through Iowa, Nebraska and Kan- sas to look over the country with the in- tention of locating wherever they found the most interesting field. When they reached Clyde, they were pleased and im- pressed with that prosperous and thriv- ing little city and the opportunities offered in the various ave- nues of business, and four of their number remained. One of them, Willis Brandon, the photographer, a cousin of our sub- ject, became a permanent resident. A brother, Washington Brandon, after a stay of two years removed to Wyoming. The other .members of the party, 28 t" 1 V ) il --AiM / ' ^-=«L ^**sr^"^^*H ';^^'^\xJ^/T Wm. ■ - .iS^ b '^^& ^m wki% p ^#-^B &*- ^-- "- ' ; i ■■-a \ / :w m . -:,,. i-:..^*i ,■ 1 i. h ki '!=..:.»* ^ m.^m^ "w ' ' ,^c"'^'^' 9 wig^H^ ' ■ y. —-^ L : :^ 1_ •■■'.? ..■*K^t- A Portrait of William L. Brandon and an Engraving of His Elegant Home in Clyde. 470 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. after a brief sojourn returned to their Pennsylvania home. Shortly after his arrival Mr. Brandon secured a position with the Clyde Mill Company as stationary engineer and remained from the time of its -opening until it was burned in 1884. He then went into the elevator of Mel Roach as man- ager and engineer, and subsequently became interested in the ele\-ator he now owns; but later sold to Mr. Brown and leased the Roach ele\'ator, then owned by the Clyde State Bank. This enterprise was burned March 26, 1898. The fire originated from the machinery and consumed eleven thou- sand bushels of grain, engendering a total loss — not one dollar of insurance. Mr. Brandon then bought the ground on which the elevator stood, of the Bank officials, and the following summer erected the elevator now owned by the Clyde Milling and Elevator Company, where he continued until May I, 1901. In 1899 Mr. Brandon consolidated with the Clyde Milling and Elevator Company as a corporation and built the Clyde Mills. He sold his interest in igoi, and bought the Clyde Elevator, the property of Stanley Roach, where he transacts an extensive business under the name of the Clyde Elevator. The capacity is about twenty thousand bushels. The building was erected in 1880 by Captain Hanson and an addition, or the north wing, was built on in 1884. Mr. Brandon is a native of New Castle, Pennsylvania, born in 1857. He attended the common schools in tliat vicinity and at the age of nineteen years came to Illinois, where he lived on a farm. Mr. Brandon's paternal grandfather moved from Kentucky to Pennsylvania in the early settlement of that state. The Brandons were originally from England. His mother's people, the Alexanders, were from Scotland and settled in Pennsylvania. Mr. Brandon's parents are both living in New Castle at the ages of seventy- six and sixty-eight years respectively. He is one of six children, four boys and two girls, four of whom are living. The youngest brother, Samuel P., died from a railroad accident at Beaver Palis, Pamsylvania, in 1892. ]\Irs. A. Morton, the eldest sister, died in Colorado in 1901. The youngest sister, Mrs. Joseph Harper, is a resident of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. His brother, Washington Brandon, is a resident of Hutchinson, Kansas, and another brother, Elmer, o.f Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Mr. Brandon was married in 1879 to Miss Eva Hay, a daughter of George AV. Hay, one of the old settlers of Cloud county, and one of the first residents of Clyde. To Mr. and Mrs. Brandon have been born three children, two daughters and one son. Mildred, Amy and WilHam. Mil- dred is the wife of A. C. Baker, of the Rock Island Elevator in Kansas City. They are the parents of two little sons, Willie and Burns, aged two and four years. Amy, a prepossessing and promising young woman, is a student of the Great Western Business College of Concordia. Mr. Brandon bought the Kennedy residence in 1896. This is one of the most beautiful homes in Clyde; it has a frontage of two hundred and seventy-eight feet, surrounded by a Chinese Quince hedge, elegant lawn and fine shade trees. The residence is of the mansard architecture and was HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 471 erected in 1881. Mr. Brandon is active in politics and affiliates with the Republican party. He was maj'or of the city of Clyde in 1896-7 and has been a member of the council for several years. He has been a director and stockholder of the Elk State Bank since 1896. He is a member of the Inde- pendent Order of Odd Fellows. The family are members of the Presby- terian church. Mr. Brandon is a quiet and unpretentious man, but wields an extended influence among his fellow townsmen and is one of the solid men of Cloud county; the kind that helps to forward every worthy enterprise not only by his counsel and advice, but by contributing from his stores of a worldly nature. W. D. GROFF. The Groffs are among the old settlers of Cloud county. V. H. Grofif, a brother of the subject of this sketch came to Kansas in 1866, and took up a homestead on Upton creek, near the present town of Hollis, where he lived several years and was a comrade of such old hunters and trappers as Jack Bil- lings and Root Fos- ter. His wife died in December, 1900, his children were all married and living in homes of their o«"n and in the autumn of 1 90 1 he entered the Soldiers' Home at Leavenworth. His children offered him a home but he pre- ferred that institu - tion. He contracted rheumatism from exposure while on hunting expedi- tions and is practically disabled. He is sixty-six years of age. The Groffs are Pennsylvania Dutch, having settled in Chester county in the pioneer days, but subsequently located near Harrisburg. AV. D. Groff came to Clyde in 1885, having previously lived in Illinois two years, and established a jewelry store in Clyde. With the exception of three years when his eyes would not permit of his working, he has been a jeweler forty-three years. During the interim mentioned he worked at carpentering until the death of Jeff Nye, with whom he was associated, and after various changes and vicissitudes he established a jewelry store,, and by degrees has built up a successfvil business. An Interior View of W. D. Groff' s Well Appointed Jewelry Store. 472 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. and Mrs. Groff are the parents of nine children, six of whom are living, viz: William, a station agent at Dennison, Texas, Francis G. was water commissioner of Clyde for several years, but is now an employe of the Clyde creamery. Lizzie A., unmarried and living at home. Jennie, wife of Charles Garwood, a farmer of Elk township. Sarah M., wife of G. M. Wheat, station agent on the Nelson branch at Gladstone, Nebraska. Samuel, a young man of seventeen, is on his second year in the high school. Mr. Groff served in the Civil war in Company A; Twenty-sixth Penn- •sylvania Volunteers. Out of his regiment one hundred and twenty-seven, including himself, were captured at the battle of Gettysburg. He was paroled but not exchanged, consequently re-enlisted in Company A, two hundred and tenth Pennsylvania in September, 1864, served until the close of the war and was mustered out at Arlington Heights. Mr. Groff saw active service, was in both battles of Gravelly Run, Five Forks, Boydton Plank Road, Appomattox and Gettysburg, where the bullets rained like hail. . His brother, V. H. Groff, was in the eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. Mr. Groff and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is treasurer. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Modern Woodmen of America. Politically Mr. Groff is a Republican. Mrs. Groff is an industrious woman and has been her hus- band's helpmate in the truest sense of the word. She is a dressmaker, car- ries on an establishment and is an artist in this line. As a jeweler Mr. Groff receives his share of patronage and carries a full line of goods such as are usually found in a first class jewelry store, consisting of silver and a full line of ornamental ware. As a citizen he is among the most highly esteemed in his town and a man who is interested in all educational and religious enter- prises and works faithfully for the interest of any cause pertaining to the welfare of his town or community. HONORABLE LEWLS WETZEL BORTON. The subject of this sketch, the late Judge Borton, was one of Clyde's most distinguished citizens. Fie not only reached the top round of the lad- der as a practitioner in the state, but also in the Federal courts. Judge Bor- ton was one of the "headlights" of the Democratic party. He represented the Eighty-first district in 1882-3, was a candidate for secretary of state in 1878, was attorney for the Missouri Pacific Railway and held minor offices, as mayor of the town, etc. Fie was a popular public official and ranked among the best legal authority of the state. Aside from being a man of ability and natural genius, he was possessed of an inexhaustible fund of humor and as big-hearted as he was genial. He was first and foremost in every movement for the best interests of Clyde, and through his associations with the outside world the town became M'idely known. Through his untir- ing efforts much credit is due for the bringing of the railroad into Cloud HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 47s county. In company with his wife's brother, James Law, who is a musi- cian, he would visit the country districts and hold mass meetings, make speeches,, etc. He was not only a learned and eloquent man, but popular with all classes of people. Judge Borton was born in Fairview, Guernsey county, Ohio, Septem- ber I, 1831, and died March 14, 1889, at the age of fifty-seven years. His death was one of the most sorrowful events that ever took place in Clyde. Judge Borton was the fifth of nine children, six brothers and three sisters, viz: Reuben, Edward, William, Martha, J. Wesley Baker (see sketch), Louisa and Vashti Caroline. Of the entire family only the two last named are liv- ing, both residents of California. The Bortons were all men of broad and progressive ideas, large experiences with the world and an inherent knowl- edge of human nature. Judge Borton's grandparents, Benjamin and Charity (Rogers) Borton, were bom in Eversham township, Burlington cotmty. West Jersey, eleven miles from the city of Philadelphia. His parents were James and Maria (Wilson) Borton, who settled in Ohio, where they reared their family of children. They were of Quaker origin. Reuben Borton, a prominent man in milling and manufacturing, died at his home in Marion, Illinois, in 1889. Edward and William died in Ohio. The youngest brother, J. Wesley Bor- ton, was massacred by the Indians in California, May 3, 1864. He was one of a prospecting party who had pursued a band of Indians to recover their horses stolen by the savages, but gave up the chase and returned to camp, unpacked, unsaddled and lariated their horses about twenty yards distant and stretched themselves upon the ground. A few moments later they were startled by a deadly volley of about fifty shots poured in from all directions. Most of the party sprang to their feet, but J. W. Borton, who was lying at full length upon the ground did not arise ; he had received a bullet through the chest. Four of the party were killed outright and another dangerously wounded. The others fled for their lives, as to linger would be certain death, and their comrades were already fated. When Mr. Borton's body was found, a great New Foundland dog, true to the instincts of this noble animal, was stretched by his master's side as if calmly resolved to share his fate. Judge Borton was married to Miss Matilda Law, April 30, 1854. She survives him and lives on the farm along with her brother, Joseph Law, and her aged mother, who was Sarah Watkins before her marriage, and as a girl was known as "Sallie" Watkins. This interesting, vivacious and well preserved old lady, with a face as round and plump as many women fifty years her junior, and eyes that are bright as those in many youthful faces, is living with her daughter at the age of eighty-eight years, having been born March 15, 1814. "Sallie" Law was married to James Law in 1829. He was fourteen years her senior, and consequently was born in 1800. His father was Mathew Law and came to America under the English flag as a British captain. He was captured and surrendered by Cornwallis to Wash- 474 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ington at Yorktown in 1781. He was born in England but was reared in Ireland, and was a shipbuilder by occupation. He never returned to Eng- land, but married an American woman and reared a family of nine chil- dren. Mr. and Mrs. Law reared to maturity ten of the eleven children born to them. The second youngest are twins. Josq^h, who manages the farm for Mrs. Borton — his sister died unmarried at the age of thirty years. Another son, James W. Law, Jr. (see sketch), owns an adjoining farm. The daughters are Nancy Ellen, wife of S. Stiverson, of Clarinda, Iowa. Laura A., wife of David May, of Kansas City. Mrs. Doctor Ransopher and Mrs. L. \V. Borton, the latter two well known to all the old settlers of Elk town- ship. James Law, Sr., died December 7, 1878. Judge Borton was admitted to the legal profession in 1855, and prac- ticed law successfully in the courts of Ohio until 1859, when he became interested in the alluring prospects for gold found in the Rockies, and he left his old home and located near the world famous Pikes Peak. During his ten years of residence there, his career was marked and he was prom- inent in legal circles and in politics. Pie was elected attorney of Gilpin county, but he decided to locate in Kansas, believing in the state's future greatness he cast his lot here and no man \\'orked more faithfully than he. It was said of him, he refused upon one occasion to buy a map of heaven because Clyde was not inscribed there. It has been conceded that Judge Borton was the only individual who was ever rewarded by a spontaneous laugh from Jay Gould, the late great railroad magnate. Being a man of much local influence, he was invited by Jay Gould, who was touring the country in his special car, to join him in his journey through Republican valley and consulted the judge regarding some new railroad projects. There was in the party besides Mr. Gould, S. H. H. Clark, B. P Waggener, Doctor Munn, W. W. Fagan, George J. Gould and other officials of the road. After the business transactions were disposed of, Judge Borton was invited to make the entire trip with them. From railroads the conversation drifted to other topics. Mr. Gould took no part in the subjects under discussion, or touched upon; finally the con- versation changed to humorous narratives and during this test Jay Gould sat unmoved as a sphinx, until Judge Borton related for the first time his original and famous story about the cheerful sod house settler who became so sore pressed by poverty that he resolved to abandon all attempts at living like a human being and get a buffalo hide and tail and run wild. The recital of this thoroughly original and remarkable anecdote was irresistable and Mr. Gould's i-isibilities could not be suppressed upon this occasion and he fairly exploded with laughter. This was the first instance known to Gould's friends of his ever having taken interest in anything not pertaining to business, and through this incident Judge Borton gained the noteoriety of being the only man who ever produced from the great railway king an audible laugh. The judge was pleased over his vie- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 475 tory, and after this event was frequently the guest of Jay Gould, often traveling with him when passing through northwestern Kansas. The following is a true story, illustrating the tact and humor of Judge Borton : The judge and three comrades were touring the country districts in the interests of a railroad project during the early 'seventies. As the night was dark and Clyde several miles distant, the company of promoters secured lodging in the diminutive home of a settler whose one room was partitioned with blankets, as was the prevailing custom in the new western country. All went well with the guests of the farm house, who arose the next morning , with renewed vitality to pursue their intentions. In glanc- ing his eyes over the breakfast table, Fred Herman, who was one of the party, discovered that the ham and eggs were swimming in grease, a diet his dyspeptic constitution could not indulge in with any degree of comfort or happiness, hence in kindly, persuasive accents he recjuested the hostess to prepare for him some dry toast and a poached tgg. The woman looked about in a bewildered manner, and a moment later disappeared from the room. Returning presently, she hesitatingly remarked to Mr. Herman : "T cannot find one of them kind on the place." In an instant the quick intui- tion of Judge Borton was brought to bear upon the case and, with the tact that made him famous, the Judge, approaching the disconcerted landlady, said in ratlier confidential tones : "Just take a frying-pan, pour into it some hot water, break an ordinary hen's egg into it, and when cooked you can't tell it from the other kind." Their hostess is still a resident of Kansas, and not so far distant, but this article may be read by she who doubtless learned ere this, that "poached" eggs are a form of cooking rather than the product of a certain species of fowl. HONORABLE JOHN F. RANDOLPH. J. F. Randolph is one of those individuals who realize that "life is real." The contest for wealth and position grows more and more the object to be desired, and to gain a position in the world a man must possess both intellect and natural ability. In the struggle essential to success in life Mr. Randolph has not only benefitted himself, but others. The original name is Fitzrandolph. He is a grandson of Joseph Fitzrandolph who emigrated with the loyalists to Nova Scotia, where he subsequently became one of the foremost citizens of Higby county and for several years was a member of the legislative council of Nova Scotia. He owned a large tract of land called "Belle Farm," at Bridgetown, where he carried on general farming until his death, at the age of three score and ten years. He belonged to the denomination of Quakers or Friends. He reared four sons and a daughter, none of whom are living. The Randolphs are of distinguished ancestry. A relative, the Honorable A. F. Randolph, of Frederickton, New Brunswick, who died May 14, 1902, was held in great esteem and as a tribute to his memory, business was sus- 476 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. paided, flags flying at half mast and hundreds followed his remains to their last resting place and many distinguished people among his circle of friends were in attendance. Governor Snowball,, who was absent from the city, sent as representatives, Private Secretary Barker and Captain Lister, A. B. C. A. F. Randolph acquired great wealth, rising from a clerk. In 1855 he established a small general merchandising business and from this date his rise was rapid and he became one of the most prominent men in business, political affairs and social circles. He was a leader among men and achieved the splendid result from a career that in the beginning was fraught with the usual vicissitudes that surround one's start in life. J. F. Randolph, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Nova Scotia, born on a farm near the town of Bridgetown in 1849. He received his edu- cation in the common schools and finished an academic course in the acad- emy at Bridgetown. He moved to Boston in 1866, where he remained as clerk in a store until coming to Kansas in 187 1. In company with some friends he came to Waterville, the terminus of the railroad, and westward to Clyde, when that town was in its infancy. Mr. Randolph enjoys the dis- tinction of having assisted in surveying the first railroad in the Annapolis valley in Nova Scotia, as well as the first streets in the town of Clyde, Kansas. He was one of the body of select men who served as the first board of council- men, has since been elected member of the council several times and was mayor in 1890. He has been associated with and owned several merchan- dising enterprises, among them an extensive furniture store, a shoe store and hardware business, and was once owner of the "Regulator," Clyde's most extensive department store. In 1873 ^^ became interested in a general mer- chandising business at Kirwin, and in 1879, at Clayton and Norton, remov- ing his family to the latter place, but returned to Clyde in 1883. He was associated with R. F. Herman for several years and in the meantime turned his attehtion in sundry different directions; became a stockman and drove horses through from Texas. He has had a taste of western life in various capacities, among them the association of the cow-boy and buffalo hunts on the plain, in which capacity he acted for pleasure and profit. Being of a speculative and adventurous nature he drove through to the mountains and mining camps with wagon loads of supplies. He visited Denver in 1875, the Black Hills in 1877, and Leadville in 1879. When Mr. Randolph returned to Clyde in 1883, he opened a loan and real estate office. Land near Clyde was worth from eight to fifteen dollars per acre and money on real estate at that time was ten per cent and often times a commission added to that. Personal loans were three per cent per month. Mr. Randolph was married in October, 1872, to Emma Kirkpatrick, who is conceded to have been the second white child born in the city of Leavenworth. Her father, James Kirkpatrick, assisted in laying out the city of Leavenworth, and was a pioneer of St. Paul, Minnesota. They were the first white settlers of St. Paul and owned the first store established there, where the older sisters and brothers of Mrs, Randolph were born. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 477 Mr. and Mrs. Randolph are the parents of four children, three of whom are living. Grace died at the age of two years; Blanche is a graduate from the Clyde High school ; she is an accomplished )^oung woman, possessing con- siderable literary talent. Frank is the wife of William Decker, of Hollis, Kansas. John F., Jr., assists his father in the office. He has not yet finished his education but was compelled to forego his school work on account of illness. Mr. Randolph is a Mason of twenty-one years standing, and for the past five years has been high priest of the chapter and has filled the chair of master. He is also a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He takes an active interest in political affairs and is a member of the state central committee. On April i, 1902, he received the appointment of deputy revenue collector and is a most efficient officer. He is a man who takes much interest in educational matters and has been a member of the school board in Clyde for the past eight years and holds that office at the present writing. The Randolphs occupy the Rice residence, one of the most desirable prop- erties in Clyde. Mr. Randolph was with Mr. Rice on his Dennison, Texas, trip, and with that financier, who is mentioned elsewhere on these pages, took the toboggan slide financially. -No man 'is more popular or more deserving of popularity among his acquaintances than Mr. Randolph, for he possesses those admirable personal qtmlities that make him friends where- ever known. His" brothers and sisters are now residents of Boston, Massa- chusetts, which place he considers his family home. JAMES L. DOSTER. J. L. Doster, the subject of this sketch, is one of the most skillful engi- neers in the county. He has manipulated the engine of the Clyde City Water Works since their construction in 1886, which is a guaranteed recommend as to his ability. There are few avaiues that require more skill or offer a surer opportunity for success than is found in the profession of engineering. Mr. Doster is an agreeable, intelligent, well informed man and rated among Clyde's most substantial citizens. The professor of the high school sends his engineering class to Mr. Doster for practical instructions, a pleasing fea-ture to both Mr. Doster and the students. He assisted in erecting the water works and placing the machinery, under the general contractor, E. Suthin, whose employ he had been in for twelve years. Mr. Doster entered upon the career of a machinist, but on account of ill health was forced to abandon the occupation of his choice and learn the trade of stone mason, which he followed for several years and drifted back to his first ambition. He was with the Edison Electric Works of Topeka two years and in the employ of a mining company, "The Jolly Tar," located at Victor, in the Crip- ple Creek district. In the two years he was with this mining company he did not lose a day or an hour; worked Sunday and every day until rheu- 478 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. matism drove him to a lower altitude, and he came to Clyde, where he had previously lived. Mr. Doster is a native of Belle Center, Logan county, Iowa. His father was Silas Doster, a blacksmith by occupation. He died when Mr. Doster was a small boy. The Dosters were of Scotch-Irish origin and settled in Ohio at an early date. Mr. Doster is one of five children, three of whom are living. Mrs. Tracy, of Clyde, is a sister and Maggie, a dressmaker living in Topeka, where his mother now resides. The Dosters emigrated to Jeffer- son county, Kansas, in the autumn of 1869. His mother married the second time to Ralph Bowers and they homesteaded land in Jefferson county. Mr. Bowers was a mason by trade, and came to Clyde in 1870 and lived in that city about ten years. Mr. Doster was married in 1880 to Martha Burges, whose parents were among the early settlers of Cloud county. Mr. Doster is a Republican, a mem- ber of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Fra- ternal Aid. Mr. Doster purchased the old Girard residence which is located in the vicinity of the water Avorks. He remodeled the house and madt a com- fortable home. W. B. BEACH, M. D. Though a young man. Doctor Beach, the subject of this biography, is a very successful practitioner, and although he has been a resident of Clyde but a brief time is well known. A few months after graduation he became associated with Doctor Marcott under the firm name of Marcott & Beach, forming a strong combination of rising young M. Ds. Doctor Beach entered upon the practice of his calling with the zeal of an old practitioner. His professional standing is rapidly gaining in popular favor and his natural qualifications assure for him sticcess and a promising career. Doctor Beach is a native of Niagara county, New York, born in 1873. He came west in 1897, and visited his brother, who lives near Concordia, and later received a position in the hospital wards of the Ossawatomie Insane Asylum, and subsequently occupied the same position in the Clarinda, Iowa, Asylum. In 1899, he finished a course in the Kansas Medical College of Topeka, making a special study of br^in and nerve diseases. His father was Sherman Beach, a New York farmer, who died in 1876. His mother before her marriage was Jane Mandaville, who lives with. her son, George S. Beach, four miles northwest of Concordia. The Mandavilles were the first settlers in the state of New York. Doctor Beach was married May 8, T90T, to Blanch I. Lay, of Seneca Falls, New York. Doctor and Mrs. Beach occupy a cozy cottage home which he purchased from A. Lavalle. It is a model of neatness, a pretty little home presided over by his accomplished wife. Doctor Beach is a member of the Topeka Medical College Alumni Society and of the Cloud county Medical Society. Politically he is a Democrat. — [By the recent death of Doctor Mar- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 479 cott's father the associations of Doctor Reach and Doctor Marcott liave been severed, the latter removing to Concordia and succeeding to his late father's practice. — Editor. SIDNEY H. KNAPP. S. H. Knapp, the popular postmaster of Clyde, is a Kansan born and bred. His birth occurred ten miles west of Manhattan on Wild Cat creek, in 1867. He is a son of Honorable George W. and Rhoda E. (Hampton) Knapp. His paternal grandfather was smothered to death by the caving in of a well where he was working. Mr. Knapp's father was a Kansas pioneer. He settled in the old Pawnee reservation, near Junction City, in 1854, and homesteaded land on Wild Cat creek, now within a half mile of Keats, a station on the Rock Island Railroad. The Knapps are of English origin and early settlers in the state of New York. George W. Knapp resided in the Adiron- dacks, the place of his nativity, until he emi- gr?.ted to Kansas in the pioneer settlement of Geary county, where he experienced raan_\' hardships. Pie served his country in the Civil war and t^'as one of Company G, Eleventl Kansas Cavalry. After the war he located in Riley, Kansas. In October, 1878, he came to Clyde, erected a barn and engaged successfully in the livery, 'bus and transfer business, where he continued until 1888. During the winter of 1887 he was elected to the legislature, discharged his duties faithfully and won the confidence and respect not only of his constituents, but those who differed from him politically. He has always been active in politics and in every enterprise to forward the best interest of his town. In 1890, he received the ap- pointment of postmaster and served four years during President Harrison's ad- ministration! In 1894 he removed to Kansas City, Kansas, where for several years he has been engaged in the transfer and real estate business, transacting an extensive business. For the past four years he has been engaged in news- paper work and is still active in politics. The present year (1902) he was delegate to the state convention held at W^ichita, and has been suggested as nominee for register of deeds of Wyandotte county. S. H. Knapp is the eldest of three children, two boys and one girl. He received his education in the public schools of Clyde and the commendable night business school conducted by Prof. Roach of Clyde. Mr. Knapp as- sisted his father in the livery business until 1885, when he entered the em- ploy of S. S. Mcintosh in his book and stationery store until 1887. The Sidney H. Knapp. 48o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. spring of 1888, he embarked in farming and moved on his father's ranch in Mitchell county, remaining there three years. He was successful in this en- terprise but his fa- ther sold the ranch and opened an exten- sive flour and feed store in Clyde. His father had received the appointment of postmaster in the meantime and S. H. Knapp entered the office as assistant postmaster. In the spring of 1 89 1, he es- tablished a book and stationery store in the front of the post- Pretty Cottage Home of Sidney H. Knapp of Clyde. office building and has built up a paying enterprise; carrying a full line of books and periodicals, stationery, fancy goods and a line of fine confectionery. They are leaders in this 'line and their stock is in advance of that usually found in a city of Clyde's pro- portions. Our subject was appointed postmaster in 1898, to succeed Judge Mc- Farland and was reappointed in 1902. The Clyde postoffice with Mr. Knapp and his able assistants is one of the iDest conducted offices in the coun- try. Mr. Knapp was married in 1887, to Mary E. Kinch, a daughter of Hon- orable Samitel R. Kinch who was a prominent resident of Clyde for many years. He was the first engineer of the Clyde city water works and for years proprietor of a flour and feed business. He was well known in political and municipal circles; filled the office of mayor of Clyde and was a valued mem- ber of the council. At the opening of the strip in Oklahoma, in 1901, he was the lucky winner in drawing a fine claim and with his family removed to their new possessions near Bridgeport, where they now resides The Kinchs are from Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of Mrs. Knapp. Mr. and Mrs. Knapp are the ])arents of three engaging children, two boys and a daughter; Harold and Kenneth, two manly little fellows, aged twelve and nine years respecti\'ely. Marion jeanette — or "Dolly" as she is called by her parents and associates — is aged seven. Miss "Dolly" enjoys the distinction of being the only child that gave and received a kiss from President Roosevelt when he visited Clyde in 1900. It was bestowed upon her in receipt for a handsome bouquet tendered the President. To S. H. Knapp belongs the absolute credit of instigating the organiza- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 48' tion of the Young Men's Republican Club of Cloud county. He first con- ceived the idea from the Kansas Day Club, and submitted the proposition to the late Mr. Ackley, of Concordia, who at once conceded the popularity it would command. After Mr. Ackley's death Mr. Knapp requested Fred Sturges, Jr., to accept the honor of becoming the club's first president. Mr. Knapp became secretary and through the combined efforts oi these two young Republicans this club was made one of the most popular organizations ever in Cloud county. Socially Mr. Knapp is a Mason of eight years' standing, a Modern Woodman, a member of the Sons of Veterans, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, Triple Tie, and the Life Annuity Association. In business circles Mr. Knapp ranks among the most successful ; in political affairs he is pre- eminently a leader among the young men of Cloud county. He is a genial, courteous man, and a general favorite with his large circle of acquaintances and friends. DAVID A. LAMOUREAUX. The subject of this sketch, D. A. Lamoureaux, is a dealer in lumber, window sash, blinds, doors, etc. The building he occupies as an office is located on Main and Washington streets, and is one of the most historical in the city of Clyde, having been the first frame school house erected in that town. Mr. Lamoureaux was born in the province of Quebec, Canada, grew to manhood in that Dominion, but early in his career removed to California, where he occupied a position of book-keeper for a large contracting firm for four years. In 1877 he concluded to engage in a new field of labor and was attracted to the resources of the new western field in Kansas, and ac- cepted a position as assistant cashier of the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Clay Center. Three years later he assumed the management of the Chicago Lumber company's yards during the "boom days" of Clyde and continued in iheir employ fourteen years. In 1894 he established his present business and has been very successful. If a patron is unfamiliar with the requirements of building material and does not know a lath from a 6x4, Mr. Lamoureaux can be trusted to fill the order with such accuracy that satisfaction is guaran- teed. Mr. Lamoureaux has done much to build up the city of Clyde, not only with boards and shingles, but with energy and enterprise. In 1883 he erected the two story brick building now occupied b\' Doctor Angevine's drug store and a year later a comfortable residence. Mr. Lamoureaux youthful days were spent on a farm and the walls of his father's country home resounded to the patter of one dozen pairs of juvenile feet — six boys and six girls; conclusi\e e\'idence that gloom and dull care were strangers in that household. Seven children survive the pa- rents who have been deceased for three decades — one brother is a resident of Clay Center, Kansas. 482 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Lamoureaux was married in 1885 to Miss Cecillia Bishop, of Maryland, a gifted and cultured \^-oman. Mrs. Lamoureaux is of English origin on the paternal side. Her grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier. Her parents were residents .of Clyde for several years. Mr. Bishop was a "dyed-in-the-wool" Democrat and twenty or more years ago he with Judge Borton were, practically speaking, the only adherents of that political faith in Clyde, consequently when their party came into power they strutted to the front and crowed vociferously, "the victory is ours." Airs. Bishop's maiden name was Ramsay; she was of Scotch-Irish origin; she died in 1896. The surviving husband and father lives in the home of a daughter in St. Louis, Missouri. He is seventy-eight years of age. Mrs. Lamoureaux was an educator before her marriage and occupied prominent positions. She was principal of the schools at Ellicott, Mary- land, for three years, and of the only exclusive girl's school at Annapolis, Maryland, for eight years. She was reared on the beautiful shores of east- ern Mai7land. where she could here the roar and surge of the mighty ocean whose music is never forgotten. "Take the bright shell from its home on the lea, and wherever it goes it will sing of the sea." Mrs. Lamoureaux graduated from the Maryland State Normal School at the age of eighteen years. The strength and growth of her intellectual faculties are budding in the mind of a< beautiful daughter, aptly named Josephine, who is developing literary talents tending toward historical and deeper works of prose; manj' of her compositions de- note a promising future. She has been a student for more than four years in the Sacred Heart Convent of St. Joseph, Missouri, where she is taking a general course. The Lamoureaux family are members of the Catholic church. Mrs. Lamoureaux was reared in the faith of the Presbyterian church, but feeling a change in her heart and convictions, she read Cardinal Gibbons' "Faith of Our Fathers," and after careful thought and earnest prayers for guidance, she v'as converted to the Catholic religion and baptized in 1877 by Father Curtis, who renounced the Episcopal creed to become a Catholic and is now one of the bishops of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. JOHN L. KIRBY, D. D. S. Doctor Kirby began his career by teaching school ; taught in Clay county three years. He was connected two summers with the electric light company in Clay Center, Kansas, putting up lines, wiring, collecting, etc., during his college vacation. Doctor Kirby graduated from the Kansas City dental college in 1901. Prior to this he took a year's course of medicine in the St. Louis medical college, but having two brothers in dentistry he was induced through their influence to change his profession. Doctor Kirby was a student of the Emporia State Normal three years, where he took a course preparatory to studying medicine, and we might add was where he HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 483 met the cause that took efifect, and resuhed in his coming to Clyde, where he was married June 12, 1901, to Miss Lillian B. Smith, one of the most beau- tiful young women of Clyde, a daughter of LIriah Smith. She was among the first graduates of tlie Clyde schools and was a prominent teacher. She has taught in various places, Clyde, Valley Falls and her last two terms were taught in Kansas City schools. She was a graduate of the State Nor- mal and stood exceptionally high in school work. She was also a student for one or more years of the Campbell University, in Holton, Kansas. Doctor Kirby is a native of Woodford county, Kansas, where his parents, John H. and Mary E. (Dillingham) Ku^by were early settlers. The Kirbys were of English origin and settled in Pennsylvania in an early day. The Dillinghams were of Holland descent, and settled in New York. Dr. Kirby's maternal grandfather was a revolutionary soldier. John H. Kirby came to Kansas in 1881, and settled in Dickinson county near the Clay county line where he bought land, raising stock and grain. He died in 1897. Mrs. Kirby lives with her children. Doctor Kirby is the youngest of eight chil- dren. Doctor A. H. a dentist of Rock Rapids, Iowa. W. D. a dentist of Beatrice, Nebraska. H. W. who operates a coal yard in Denver, Colorado. Mrs. R. B. Ferguson, of Pueblo, Colorado. Airs. ^V. B. Hall, of Marion, Kansas. Mrs. C. P. Flyer, whose iiusband is Doctor Flyer, a dentist of La Crosse, Kansas. Mrs. Grant McCoy who with her family live on the old place. Doctor Kirby is a member of the Delta Sigma Delta Fraternity, which is an international dental fraternity. He has been a member of this order three years. Doctor Kirby is working with the expectations of making a speciality of straightening irregular teeth and expects to take special courses next year with Doctor Angle, of St. Louis, who is the recognized authority of the world in that line. Doctor Kirby is a Republican in poli- tics and a member of the Young Men's Republican Club. He was raised a Presbyterian but united with the Methodist Episcopal church after his mai- riage with Mrs. Kirby for she had always been a worker and a member of that church. Doctor Kirby stands in the profession of dentistry, also in social circles and is a rising young man. HONORABLE WILLIAM S. CANNON, The subject of this sketch, W S. Cannon, an old resident of Clyde, came to this city as a clerk in the employ of the pioneer merchants, Herman & Davis, in the autumn of 1869. In 1875 he established a general mer- chandising business, continuing in that pursuit for upwards of a dozen years, and built the brick building now occupied by the boot and shoe de- partment of the "Regulator." He carried a stock ranging from fifteen to twenty thousand dollars and was one of the leading merchants of Clyde. Mr. Cannon was born on the eastern shores of Maryland in the village of Bridgetown, May 18, 1849, where he grew to manhood, receiving a com- 484 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. mon school education. In 1867, he left Maryland and after a sojourn of a little more than a year in Illinois, came to Clyde. In the meantime Mr. Cannon has spent several years away from Clyde. He began the practice of law in the office of Judge Hamilton, of Norton, the present judge from that district, appointed by Governor Stanley. He was with this able jurist for a period of four years and was admitted to the bar of Kansas February 2, 1890, at Norton, where he entered upon the practice of his profession. In 1892, he visited Pueblo, Colorado, and became associated with Moses & Huljbell, attorneys, under the firm name of Moses, Hubbell'& Cannon. One year later he returned to Clyde (where he always claimed a residence and came home to vote) and opened a permanent office. Mr. Cannon takes an active part in political affairs and votes with the Peoples party. He was twice elected mayor of the city of Clyde, and served as treasurer for eight years. Mr. Cannon was born in the same house where his father first saw the light of day. His parents were John M. and Susan (Elliott) Cannon. He is one of nine children, five of whom are living. A sister is the only one living at the Bridgeport home. Mr. Cannon married Miss Carrie Bor- ton, one of Clyde's most estimable young ^\■omen, a daughter of the late Baker Borton (see sketch). The are the parents of four children, Ruby, John, Bessie and Margery. HONORABLE CHARLES W. VANDEMARK. The VanDeMarks have contributed very materially to the growth and prosperity of Clyde and have never been found wanting when any enterprise was inaugurated for the best interest of their town, where they have done as much by way of imparting their finances for the promotion of Clyde as any citizen in their beautiful little city. Mr. VanDeMark located in Clyde in the winter of 1879-80 and with his brother, M. V. B., who came the followirig summer, established the bank of Clyde. M. V. B. VanDeMark was made president and C. W. VanDeMark was installed as cashier. This institution changed hands in 1886, and was incorporated under the name of the State Bank of Clyde. The State Bank was suc- ceeded by the present Elk State Bank of Clyde. Mr. VanDeMark has perhaps erected more buildings than any one citizen of Clyde. Honorable Charles W. VanDeMark. .Among them is the bank building of 1880. He erected one of the handsomest residences in the county in 1884. It is a two-story frame building witlj a basement; it is modern in all its appointments, heated by a furnace and of artistic archi- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 48s lecture. It is surrounded l)y a wide lawn and fine shade trees and is situated on the south side of Washington street. In 1887 he built the VanDeMark block, a substantial two-story brick occupied by stores on the first, and by offices on the second floor. Mr. VanDeMark is a native of Junius, Seneca county, New York, born July 13, 1841. At the age of seventeen he took a preparatory course in Penn Yan, New York, and entered the Williams College at Williamstown, Massachusetts, in the autumn of 1863, graduating in 1867, and began read- ing law in the office of Major C. N. Emerson, of Pittsfield, Massa- chusetts, a son-in-, law of Judge Sliaw, and United States collector, of Massa- chusetts. Mrs. Em- erson is a sister of "Josh Billings." One year later he entered the offices of Pingree & Barker as a stu- dent. The firm was originally Rockwell & Colt. Judge Rock- well received the ap- pointment of judge of the superior court and the firm became Colt & Pingree, and when Judge Colt was appointed judge of the supreme court the combination assumed the firm name of Pingree & Barker. Judge Barker was subsequently appointed one of the judges of the supreme court and is the present' incumbent. He is a Republican in politics but his appointment was made by the Democratic official. Governor Russell. A year later Mr. VanDeMark became associated ^vith AA'illiaoT P. Porter of North Adams, Massachusetts, under the firm name of I^orter & VanDeMark. The origi- nal name was Davis & Porter; the former becoming United States Senator. Mr. VanDeMark was admitted to the bar at Pittsfield, Massachusetts, at the October 1869 term of the superior court by Henry W. Taft, who held the office of clerk of the court about forty years, having resigned about two years ago. Prior to having been admitted to the bar Mr. VanDeMark was appointed clerk of the district court by Govenor William Claflin, of jMassa- chusetts, and Oliver Warner, Secretary of State, May 13, 1870, which office he held until going to Pittsfield, and entering upon the practice of law. May 17, 1873, h^ was appointed one of the justices of the district court of Cen- 29 The Beautiful Home of the VanDeMarks. 486 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tral Berkshire by Governor W. B. Washburn, to succeed John Tatlock, of Pittsfield, who was a professor of mathematics in the college Mr. VanDe- Mark attended. In September, 1873, Mr. VanDeMark withdrew from the firm of Por- ter & VanDeMark and succeeded to the office and library of John M. Taylor, of Pittsfield, who is now vice-president of the Connecticut Mutual Life In- surance company." Mr. VanDeMark practiced law in Pittsfield until Janu- ar}, 1877, but on account of failing health visited southern California, spending the winter at Santa Barbara and San Diego. The following sum- mer he joined his brother, M. V. B., in Chicago where he engaged in the lumber business. Mr. VanDeMark was admitted to the bar of the state of Illinois June 13, 1877, and practiced law in Chicago until June 1878, when he was sent to Texas on legal business and turned his attention for a year or more to the speculation in lumber and made it a paying proposition. While engaged in this enterprise he met Miss Addie Stevens, of Houston, Texas, whom he married April 21, 1880. Mr. VanDeMark says he entered the bonds of matrimony with Miss Stevens that he might assist in taming the rebels; however she is of northern birth, born in the city of Chicago, and re- moved with her parents to Houston, when about four years of age. Her father was a car manufacturer and owned a factory in Chicago, but when the war broke out he engaged in the manufacture of lumber. Her maternal ancestors were the Abbotts who founded the city of Detroit, Michigan. Af- ter this important event in Mr. VanDeMark's history he resolved to try his fortunes in the west ; located in Clyde and engaged in the banking business as before stated, and resumed the practice of law where he has resided con- tinuously since. Was admitted to the bar of Kansas August 12, 1881, and has had and still retains many intere.sts in and arovmd the vicinity of Clyde. He is largely interested in farming and horticulture. He owns six hundred and forty acres of pasture land, which is a profitable estate located about six miles north of Clyde; one hundred and twenty acres one mile east of Clyde; one hundred and sixty acres one and one-half miles north of Clyde; one hun- dred and sixty acres one and one-half miles northwest of Clyde;, three hun- dred and forty acres two and one-half miles north of Miltonville, making a total of one thousand three hundred and fifty acres. He also owns a fifteen acre tract of ground near Clyde— a fruit farm with an orchard of six hun- dred fine peach trees. Mr. and Mrs. VanDeMark are the parents of three remarkably hand- some and promising sons. The eldest, Martin V. B., graduated from the Clyde high school in 1901, and the present year entered upon a regular classical course in the Washburn College, Topeka. John V. carried away second honors in 1902 graduating class of the Clyde high school and has just become (September, 1902) a student of Washburn. Otis, the yoimgest son, is a namesake of his maternal grandfather. He is a student of ihe Clyde high school. Their ages are nineteen, seventeen and fifteen years, respectively. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 487 Mrs. VanDeMark is an accomplislied woman, distinguished in musical circles for her rich and cultivated soprano voice. Her solos have been a leading attraction at the Presbyterian church in Clyde for years. Her moth- er Mrs. Stevens, makes her home with her daughter and is a cultured and re- fined woman. Mr, VanDeMark has one of the finest selected and most ex- tended law libraries in the county. His career as a legal practioneer has been one of flattering success. He has always taken an active part in poli- tics and is a staunch Republican. GEORGE EEROY GREGG. G. L. Gregg, "the old reliable" butcher and auctioneer, located in Clyde in 1879. After doing various things he engaged in the grocery business and in 1887, opened a meat market, which is one of the most complete es- tablishments in the city. He purchased the Taggart building formerly owned and built by the Turners, which he fitted up for a market with a re- frigerator and cold-storage department, having a capacity for nine beeves. Mr. Gregg is one of the best known auctioneers of Cloud county. He cried his first sale in the autumn of 1882, for Mr. Culver, the father of George Culver, the county attorney, and has followed that occupation con- tinuously ever since, in connection with his market. In the winter of 1901- 02 he had an extended list of stock sales which covered a territory reaching over Cloud and adjoining counties. He is exceptionally well posted as to what stock is worth and invariably makes them bring the highest market price. Beginning with the twelfth of February, 1902, Mr. Gregg had a sale for every day up to March sixth. However from September until February he had numerous auctions — -an average of two or three per week. His repu- tation in this line is increasing and his territory in this field is widening. Mr. Gregg is of Irish origin, and was born in Steuben county. New York, in 1850. His father, Robert Gregg, was born in County Sligo, Ire- land, but of Scotch parentage. His father's people removed to Ireland during the religious movements in Scotland and emigrated to New York when their son, Robert, was thirteen years of age. Mr. Gregg's mother was Sarah Harper. He is one of a family of eight sons and two daughters, eight of whom are living. When four and one-half years of age he removed with his parents to Rock Island, Illinois, where he lived on a farm until coming to Kansas. He came without capital, but has forged to the front, accumulating a compet- ency, and owns some good property; among which is a residence just com- pleted that is one of the most commodious and best furnished homes in the city and is in one of the most desirable locations. Mr. Gregg was married in 1879, to Sarah Emma Brown, of Rock Is- land county, Illinois. Their family consists of two sons; George Raymond who has just maintained his majority is one of Clyde's brightest young men and will enter college the coming autumn (1902.) The other son is Whit- ney, aged three. 488 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Gregg has always supported the principals of the Democratic party. He is progressive in his views and is one of the substantial and prosperous business men of Clyde. Socially, he is a member of the order of Woodmen and the Triple Tie. Addenda : — G. L. Gregg has recently leased his meat market that he might give his entire time and attention to real estate and auctioneering. He has opened a neat and well appointed office in the building formerly oc- cupied by Doctor Gillespie, the dentist. Mr. Gregg is not only a "rustler," but a man to be depended upon as bringing the best possible results to any business transaction entrusted to him. GEORGE F. JUNEAU. One of the progressive and rising young business men of Clyde is G. F. Juneau, a buyer and shipper of butter, eggs, and poultry, both live and dressed. Mr. Juneau embarked in this enterprise in the month of January, 1 90 1, and has been remarkably successful. He sells to John Stewart of Con- cordia. Mr. Juneau did not start under as many difficulties as Mr. Stew'art, and had considerable more of this world's goods than he. Mr. Juneau's cajMtal, however, was but $450. One year later he refused $5,000 for his pro- duce business which tells the story of his success. He conducts his affairs in a way that brings the best returns, by sending wagons to buy at stations and inland towns. He also handles old iron. Air. Juneau bought the old "Barons Reserve," one of the historical landmarks of Clyde. The abstract books show where this property sold at one time for the dimuniti^'e sum of $100, and at another date it brought $20,000. Mr. Jun- eau bought it for a consideration of $857. It is one of the finest locations possible for his business. The original old hostelry is still on the ground. The new^ part of the building Mr. Juneau moved to the front of the wide lawn and converted it into a comfortable residence. The grounds have numerous fine shade trees and the property is one of the most desirable in the city. The block is intersected by the railroad making a lot on the north, 640 by 485 feet, and one on the south, 302 by 455 feet. Mr. Juneau was reared in the forests of Wisconsin, on a farm in the Green Bay country, where he lived until sixteen years of age. He was born in 1866. When sixteen years of age he worked on the railroad as fireman, continuing three years. He was an engineer one year and served as brake- man two years, was then promoted to conductor on the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, where he remained until 1894, when he came to Kansas City as yard-master for the same company. He then entered the employ of the Rock Island Railroad as brakeman which brought him in contact with the city of Clyde. Mr. Juneau worked himself up from the foundation, serv- ing long and faithfully, day and night; ofttimes worked forty-eight hours without food or sleep. He is a thorough and practical railroad man and can run a train second to none. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 489 Mr. Juneau's parents live in Wisconsin, and are aged respectively sev- enty-one and sixty-nine years. His father is Maxim Juneau, a Canadian by birth. He came to Wisconsin when he was but twelve years of age dur- ing the pioneer days of that state. He is still a farmer and resident of that country. Mr. Juneau is a relative of the Juneau of Alaskan fame and for whom the town of Juneau was named. He is also a great-nephew of Solomon Juneau, the first mayor of Milwaukee.. Solomon Juneau came to Milwaukee when there were but few white settlers and married an Indian squaw. How- ever, he was a good citizen and did much toward the upbuilding of that city. At the time of his death the city of Milwaukee erected a monument on the lake front to his memory at a cost of $40,000. Mr. Juneau descends from a very prolific race, he being one of sixteen children; but six of these are living, all in Wisconsin, except himself. A maternal aunt living in Wash- ington county is the mother of eighteen children. In 1898, Mr. Juneau was married to Emma Giroux, one of Clyde's most accomphshed and estimable young women. She is a daughter of Fran- cis Giroux. (See sketch of Joseph Giroux). One daughter, Josephine, gladdens their home, aged one year. Mr. Juneau is a Democrat in politics. The family are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Juneau is a member of the order of Macca- bees, Catholic Foresters, Ancient Order of United Workmen, of Clay Cen- ter, and of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen of Fairbury, Nebraska, Belleville and Clyde. Mr. Juneau's genial and sunny nature surrounds him with a host of warm friends and admirers. JACOB SOHLINGER. One of the old settlers of Cloud county and "one of the few city residents who came to Clyde in the autumn of 1869, and when that town was on the frontier, is Jacob Sohlinger. He emigrated in company with Truellis Steph- ens who came to start a pottery and with whom he had worked in Missouri. In 1873, 1^^ started an establishment of his own which he conducted until after the railroad came into Clyde, having an extensive trade from the wide .scope of country to the west. When the railroad came in, competition became heavy, coal was high and he discontinued business. W. B. Mosier conducted a business a short time after but he too gave way under the strong compe- tition. The ware was sold at eighteen cents per gallon and had been sold by Stephens at twenty cents. It was of a good quality, equal to any manu- factured at that time. One jugger and three turners were employed, also eight other workmen, Mr. Sohlinger being on the road and his own sales- man. In 1882, he entered the employ of Condon & Riley as traveling sales- man and later Riley Brothers, Avho established a biscuit factory. He is still on the road, and has been continuously with the exception of an interim of five years. He now represents the Clyde Milling Company. Mr. Sohlinger is one of the veterans of the road and of the late Civil 490 HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. war. He was a soldier in Company F, it 5th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He enlisted with Captain A. J. Ware in Stark county, Ohio, August 1862. Cap- tain Ware died in Colorado a few years ago. Their second captain was W. A. Thompson; they were most of the time under the command of General Thomas. Mr. Sohlinger was taken prisoner in Tennessee about the time of the battle of Nashville, but made his escape after nineteen days. Most of the time he was on detached duty; was in the engagements of Franklin and Nashville; did active service and was in many skirmishes while guarding bridges and railroads. Mr. Sohlinger was born in New York, May 20, 1842, where he lived until the breaking out of the war, when the family moved to Stark county^ Ohio. He received his education in New York and Ohio. His father, John Nicholas Sohlinger, was a cabinet maker before the days of machinery. Our subject remembers when his father manufactured chairs by taking a piece of timber and with an adz chipped a horizontal .surface, bored holes in the improvised board, inserted legs and called it a chair, for the simple reason one could sit down on it and it would not collapse, and looked more like fur- niture than a box. Mr. Sohlinger's parents were natives of Germany where they were married and came to America. A brother came with them and set- tled in Philadelphia, where he died. Our subject's mother was Margaret Andrews. Mr. Sohlinger was married in 1872, to Jennie Blair, from the north of Ireland and of Scotch-Irish origin. Her death occurred at Clyde, leaving a de- voted husband and five children to mourn the loss of a wife and mother. John Alfred, the eldest son is manager of the Telephone Company and traveling salesman for the Parkhurst-Davis Company, of Topeka. He has been with them six years and two years prior filled his father's place on the road. He is a. graduate of the Salina Commercial School, class of 1893. Daisy Ella, her father's housekeeper, is a graduate of the Clyde High School. Maggie Stella, the second daughter, is working for her brother in the central office of the Clyde Telephone Exchange; she is also a graduate of the Clyde High School. Myron Blair and Byron Clair, twins, who own and operate a gro- cery store are doing a thriving business receiving a justly deserved patron- age. -These young men are honorable and honest in all their dealings, not forgetting the poor have needs. There is a strong personal resemblance be- tween these two brothers, who are popular in society and universally esteemed. Mr. Sohlinger, like the rest of the early settlers, enjoyed the excitement of buffalo hunting. His companions were Decker, Ed Statt, Max Alwins, Smith and Lake. In Rooks and Graham counties buffalo were numerous and the sportsmen killed many of them, bringing the meat into camp, a trophy of their skill as hunters and brave men; but two of this party survive, himself and Alwins. Mr. Sohlinger is a Republican all the time and a man must be thor- oughly mean if he does not vote for him, and yet he was born and reared a Democrat, but changed his political views while serving "Uncle Sam." He has HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 491 ■ an honorable standing in the following social orders : The Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, the Mystic Shriners, Knight Templars, Woodmen, Anci- ent Order of United V\'^orkmen and the Grand Army of the Republic. GEORGE McBRIDE. In no line of business or trade is the average purchaser more dependent upon the dealer, than in the purchase of a jewel or watch. Not one among a score of persons is competent to judge the va-lue of either from its external appearance, hence the jeweler should be a man of unquestioned integrity such as George McBride, one of Clyde's enterprising jewelers has proven himself to be. Mr. McBride came to Clyde in September, 1898, where by honest deal- ing he has built up a prosperous business in his line. He is established in the front of the drug store of Doctor C. H. Angevine, where he carries an attract- ive and well selected stock of goods. Mr. McBride is a native of Sangamon county, Illinois, where he was born in 1855, and reared on a farm. His parents were Jefferson and Ann ( Hesser) McBride. The McBrides are of Scottish origin who settled in Kentucky in an early day, and when Jefferson McBride was a lad of ten years he moved with his parents to Illinois. The Hessers were among the early settlers of Virginia. Mr. McBride began a career for himself at the age of eighteen years. He came to Kansas in 1875, after having followed various vocations and located in Cloud county. In 1877, he bought a timber claim which he lived- on and farmed se-\'eral years, sold and became interested in a mercantile establishment at Simpson. One year later established a jew- elry business in Jamestown where he held forth until coming to Clyde. He married in 1878, to Lillian Briggs formerly of Allamakee county, Iowa, near Spirit Lake, where she was born in 1862. ^Vhen a child her parents removed to Michigan and settled in Wayne county, near Yipsilanti, and in 1871, emigrated to Kansas. Her father was Justus Brigg-s, a farmer and lived in the vicinity of Glasco near Courson's Grove. Mr. and Mrs. McBride are the parents of two children; Mabel, wife of John Hayes, a native of McDonough county, Illinois, who settled in Clyde in 1877, but returned to Illinois to locate in Kansas again in 1889. They settled in Edwards county where he with his father engaged in merchandis- ing and stock business. In 1889, they purchased the Commercial livery barn which they sold a year and a half later and engaged in the grocery business. Mrs. Hayes is a talented musician. Was organist of the Christain church at Jamestown when a mere child but fourteen years of age. Is at present organist of the Christain church in Clyde. She was deputy postmistress at Jamestown for more than two years, and was book-keeper at the "Regu- lator," Clyde's most extensive store at the time of her marriage. She is a graduate of the Jamestown schools. The son, Clyde, is a young man of nineteen years. 492 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Politically Mr. McBride is a Republican. He is a prominent Mason of fifteen years standing. Mr. Hayes is also a Mason and a member of the Knights of Pythias and Modern \A^oodmen of America. Has been through all the chairs of the Knights of Pythias lodge. The family are members and regular attendants of the Christain church. HONORABLE G. W. BARTLETT. G. W. Bartlett is distinguished as being a retired member of the Pio- neer hardware firm and Clyde's first mayor. He came to Clyde in the spring time of 1870, and assumed charge of the hardware business of Whitford & Perry, of Manhattan. In 187] he formed a partnership with W. S. Crump, under the firm name of Bartlett & Crump, successors of Whitford & Perry. Their capital was two thousand dollars, which made but a small showing. Hardware was high and freight one dollar and fifty cents from Atchison, hauled by teams and sometimes cattle. Mr. Bartlett has been engaged in various enterprises. In the grocery business two years, in the drug store one year but has been practically retired for the past sixteen years. Bartlett & Crump erected a building on the corner of W'ashington and Green streets in 1873, which was burned to the ground January 23, 1886. They erected the block which bears their name in 1883. Mr. Bartlett owns some good residence property. The Bartlett home was the first to be built on Lincoln street. There were no near neighbors and they went "cross lots" to go down town. Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett have seen Clyde grow to its present proportions. There was not a tree on the town site when they arrived, and the beautiful avenue of large soft maples that surround their residence was set out by their own hands. Mr. Bartlett was offered six thousand dollars for a corner lot on Main street without a build- ing on it. Mr. Bartlett is a son of Milton and Ruth (Bull) Bartlett, both of Mass- achusetts. ?Iis paternal ancestry were of English origin ; his maternal ancestors were from France. Mr. Bartlett is a native of Connecticut, born near Hart- ford in 1840. AVhen fourteen years old he ran away from home and sought refuge with an uncle in Ohio, where he worked for one year at twelve dol- lars per month. He subsequently operated an agency for the Weed Sewing Machine Company. For several years he was in the employ of the Charles P Colt hoop-skirt and corset manufactures and when they' failed estab- lished a factory for himself at Vernon, Connecticut. He did a flourishing business until the hoop-skirt began to wane, when he suspended this enter- prise and took a position as traveling salesman for the Fickle & Lyon Sewing Machine Company. While in the state of Connecticut Mr. Bartlett says he did almost everything but manufacture bass wood hams and wooden nut- megs ; he even sold clocks. Mr. Bartlett was married in i860 to Eliza J. Perry, a daughter of Israel K. and Jane (Walker) Perry. They emigrated from Connecticut to HH- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 493 nois, where Mrs. Bartlett was born and three months later returned to their eastern home. In 1857 A/[r. Perry came with his family to Topeka and in 1866 to Manhattan, where he became associated with A. J. Whitford until he retired from business in 1876. Mr. Perry was for years a member of the Congregational church. He was a man of high moral character, guided by the principles of justice and right. He died in Florida April 6, 1902, at the age of eighty-seven years. He was born in Manchester, Connecticut, in 181 5. To Mr. and Mrs. Bartlett have been born two sons, Ralph W. and Charles P., both of whom are well-to-do and successful business men. Ralph W. is a resident of New Oxley, California, where he is engaged in the cattle business. Charles P. is a capitalist and real estate dealer. W. E. RAY, A. M. The subject of this sketch is Professor W. E. Ray, who, so far as the writer knows, is the only man in Cloud county entitled to the distinction of A. M. Professor Ray assumed the principalship of the Clyde schools in 1899, and as a disciplinarian and educator he is fast gaining wide-spread reputation. Under his management the schools of Clyde experienced a phe- nomenal growth of prosperity. Professor Ray is a native of central Illinois, born in 1862. He began his career as a teacher in his native state. He received early educational advantages and being of a studious turn of mind made the most of his oppor- tunities. He was a pupil of the Northern Indiana Normal and took a post- graduate course in the State University of Nebraska, doing special work. Prior to that time however, he had filled various important positions and has been engaged in school work for fifteen years aproximately. He is from a family of educators, having two brothers engaged in teaching. Mrs. Ray was Miss Calvin, of Junction City. She graduated from the Junction City high school, was a student of the Emporia Normal and one year in the State University. She taught three years in the graded schools of Jtmction City and four years in the Clyde schools ; two years in the gram- mar grade and two years in the high school. While in the State University, Mrs. P.ay took a special course in music and also studied under Frederick Root of Chicago. She has a well trained voice. Professor Ray has severed his connection with the Clyde schools, re- signing to accept a more lucrative position in the Thomas county high school of Colby, Kansas. This institution has been established six years and is fast gaining in popularity. The enrollment the present year (1902) is one hundred and fifty. Professor Ray will have four assistants and the depart- ment consists of high school work exclusively. Professor Ray has been successful in Normal work; was one of the instructors in the Cloud county Normal the present summer and has been referred to as one of the most efficient in the state. The associations of Professor Ray in the Clyde schools were pleasant, and he admits he has not 494 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. enjoyed his school work anywhere more than in Clyde. Fewer men have exercised a greater individual influence or more directly inspired his stu- dents than this experienced educator. His loss to the Clyde schools will be the I'homas county high school's gain. DENNIS BYRNE. One of the pioneers of Shirley township is Dennis Byrne, who home- steaded a claim on Beaver ci'eek, section it range i, town 6, in 1869. A year and a half later he sold the homestead and contested the claim known as the "McNelly heirs" claim, which he won, and has since lived on until sell- ing to E. J. Turner in the spring of 1902, taking in exchange a stock of hard- ware and harness. Mr. Byrne, in connection with John Dowell, bought the first ferry that ran across the Republican river at Clyde, called the Clyde Ferry Company. It was established in 1871. There was a great deal of travel at that time and it proved a lucrative transaction. About three years ago Mr. Byrne went into the watermelon raising business. The ground thus planted averaged per acre from twenty to twenty-live dollars. Mr. Byrne was born in Pennsylvania in 1842, but was reared in the state of Ohio, where he worked in the coal mines most of the time until he enlisted to take part in the glorious struggle that redeemed our nation and of which like every old veteran he is justly proud. He entered the service in 1863, Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-ninth Ohio, under Colonel Howard Johns and General Burnsides. After seven months he enlisted in Company I, One Hundred and Ninety-first Ohio Volunteers, un- der Colonel Kiniberly, and served in the Middle Department of the Shenandoah, under General Hancock. Mr. Byrne participated in the siege of Knox vi lie, surrender of Cumberland Gap and several minor engagements. The last company were with the pioneer corps. Mr. Byrne served until the close of the war and was discharged August, 1865, at Winchester, Virginia. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic of Clyde, and was a charter member of both the first and present organization. ]\Ir. Byrne was married in 1872 to Etta Lamb, of Indiana. Her parents came to Kansas in 1872 from Nebraska, where they had lived a short time prior to coming to this state. To Mr. and Mrs. Byrne five children liave been born : John F., Dennis, Lemuel J. and two little daughters, Allie and Olive. John F. served an apprenticeship under Mr. Turner, former proprie- tor of their present business. Dennis and Lemuel J. both assist in the store. Mr. Byrne is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and one of the first to be initiated in the lodge at Clyde. He is a member of the .\ncient Order of United W^orkmen of eighteen years' standing. He is an independent in politics and A'Otes for the man regardless of party. Mr. Byrne was county commissioner from 1893 to 1896 and was instrumental in getting the bounty of one dollar each placed on the wolf scalps. He has been road overseer and treasurer of his township. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 495 BAKER BORTON. A conspicuous figure was the late Baker Borton, who died February 12, 1902. Mr. Borton was a native of Fairview, Ohio, where he was edu- cated in the common schools. When twenty-seven years of age he located on a farm near Morris, Grundy county. Illinois, where he resided eight years. He was ingenious and through necessity learned the carpenter trade, work- ing in that capacity for several years. The latter part of March, 1872, he came to Clyde for the purpose of farming, but circumstances were brought about that diverted his intentions and he followed that occupation but a short time. Mr. Borton was an active politician and for the first ten years of his residence in Cloud county he served as deputy sheriff, constable. United States deputy marshal and in 1888 he was elected commissioner of Cloud county and served two terms. In 1882 he opened a real estate and insurance busi- ness, becoming one of Clyde's most successful business men. He was a man of many sterling qualities, charitable and kind of heart he never oppressed the poor. He numbered his friends among all classes of people and the for- eign element, so numerous in the vicinity of Clyde, had great confidence in him-. As if foreseeing the future need of a successor from the family cir- cle, Mr. Borton trained and educated his granddaughter. Ruby M. Cannon, for the position. After graduating from the Clyde high school in 1898 she entered the office as his secretary and during his illness of three years prior to his death she conducted the business. She is well qualified and very suc- cessful, retaining the old patrons and adding many new ones. Mr. Borton was married in 1862 to Miss Sue Osier. The Osiers' ances- try came from England. Mrs. Borton's maternal grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war and her father in the war of 1812. They settled in Maryland in an early day and afterward moved to Ohio, where Mrs. Bor- ton was born. Her mother was Volinda Foreman, of Virginia, where her father was a slaveholder. Her maternal grandparents were Kentuckians, related to the old Dent family. To Mr. and Mrs. Borton one child has been born, Carrie B., wife of William S. Cannon (see sketch), an attorney of Clyde. Mrs. Borton with her family reside on the corner of Broadway and the Boulevard, which is in Clyde proper and where they located in 1873, when this part of the town was a level prairie and before the streets were surveyed. Thy have one of the most comfortable homes in the city. The family are members of the Meth- odist Episcopal church. ' S. M. RANSOPHER, M. D. The subject of this sketch is the late Dr. Ransopher, one of Clyde's most prominent and useful citizens, pioneer physicians and the first druggist of Cloud county. Dr. Ransopher came to Kansas in June, 1868, and settled i^~^iporarily on Parson's creek; his intentions were to locate on White Rock, 496 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in Republic county, where he secured a claim and erected a cabin, but the Indian troubles began and some of his relatives and acquaintances were among the victims of their murderous assaults. Finding it unsafe to take his family there he gave up his claim along vp-ith the improvements and set- tled in Clyde, March, 1869, occupying the only frame house on the town site of Clyde at that time. It was owned by Sylvester Way and stood on the lot where B. P. Morley's residence, built by Judge Borton, now stands. From that time he was a continuous resident, identified with the history of Clyde until the date of his demise. He contributed in every instance his energies and financial support to every advancement made in the city. Dr. Ransopher was born in Coshocton, Ohio, February 4, 1830, where he graduated from the high school and began a career of teaching at the age of nineteen years. After teaching in various states he drifted into Iowa when that country was new and subsequently began reading medicine, tak- ing his degree at Eddyville, Iowa. During his early residence in Clyde, Dr. Ransopher experienced many trying incidents. His practice extended over an area of many miles, crossing swollen streams and bridgeless creeks, and he would often encounter the' dangerous and treacherous quicksands of the Republican river. He was a familiar figure riding over the prairies- on horseback or in, his buck-board, administering to the fever stricken settlers. The following is an illustration of many similar instancees : One night dur- ing the dark of the moon Dan Lusadder walked from Clifton over the road- less prairie to Clyde, a distance of eight miles to secure the professional serv- ices of Dr. Ransopher for his wife, who was in confinement with their first- born, Gladys, known to many Clyde residents. They were camped in wag- ons. Imagine this poor woman under those circumstances waiting for the return of her husband with assistance for which he had to walk eight miles through the unsettled region of prairie. Dr. Ransopher earned the lumber that built his first drug store in the following way : Captain Sanders was up a tree destroying a hawk's nest, whose inmates had been the happy recipients of many of his young chickens. The mother bird flew down and scratched him in the eye, inflicting a danger- ous wound. Dr. Ransopher attended him and for his services took in ex- change Cottonwood lumber for the framing of his store building. In 1883 Dr. Ransopher erected the substantial brick building for a drug store now occupied by the grocery house of the enterprising Sohlinger Brothers. The residence he built in 1869 and hauled the pine lumber from Waterville, is still occupied by his family. Perhaps the first tree planted in Clyde graces this humble but pleasant cottage. This giant cottonwood, placed by Mrs. Ransopher and her son Elmer, measures ten feet in circum- ference, with immense limbs and spreading branches. Dr. Ransopher fell down an open stairway, which resulted in his death forty days later. He died January 28, 1890. The love and esteem by which he was held in the hearts of his friends, was signified by the suspension of HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 497 business during the funeral services, and the long solemn procession which followed his remains to the cemetery. Dr. Ransopher was married September i, 1859, to Louisa Dayton, who died September 30, 1861. To this union one child was born, Mary, who died of diphtheria September 16, 1861. June 14, 1862, he was married to Sarah E. (Law) Archer, widow of Solomon Archer, who is supposed to have died in the army. By her marriage to Mr. Archer one child we^s born, Mittie, wife of Dr. C. T. Gillespie, a dentist of Jamestown. Mrs. Gillespie, with Judge Borton, carried the chain for C. O. Huntress, the civil engineer who surveyed the town of Clyde. She was assistant postmistress to "Uncle Hel- ler" four years in the early part of the seventies. Dr. Gillespie has been a res- ident of Kansas since 1880. Much of that time has been spent traveling in his profession. For several years he was located in Clyde, and the latter part* of June, 1902, established a dental office in Jamestown, Kansas, where he has built up a lucrative practice. To Dr. and Mrs. Ransopher three children have been born, viz : Elmer, the eldest child, was born in 1863 ; he is a drug- gist located at St. Anthony, Idaho. Carrie and Harry, twins, died in 1866. Mrs. Ransopher's parents were Sarah and James Law. James Law was a son of Mathew Law, a British captain who was surrendered by Cornwallis. to Washington at Yorktown in 1781. Dr. Ransopher was a staunch RqDub- lican. During the Harrison campaign of 1888 he erected a log cabin, emble- matical of that candidate. He had two real live coons and a barrel of hard cider, which' made his place of business headquarters for politicians and which created much interest. Others followed by erecting cabins, but his was the first in Clyde. F. X. MANNA. One of the most remarkable men of Clyde is F. X. Manna, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Manna had the sad misfortune to lose his eyesight when a young man of twenty-six years, while rafting timbers on a river in the logging camps of Wisconsin. He was struck in the 'eye by a file that had been inserted in a stick; caustic was applied by the oculist who treated him, which destroyed the- remaining sight, rendering him totally blind, not dis- cerning daylight from darkness. Though deprived of his sight Mr. Manna possesses a keen intuition and has engaged in almost evei-y enterprise; mer- cantile, real estate and on down to "swapping" horses, and seldom gets the worst of a deal. He seems contented and reconciled to his fate, gets on in the world, and with these great odds against him is making more of a success in life from a financial standpoint, than many of his fellow townsmen and friends who have two good eyes. His income is about ninety dollars per month. Mr. Manna located in Clyde in 1867, when there were less than a half dozen buildings in the city. His possessions were less than twenty dollars. He came with friends, among whom were the Bolanges. He 498 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. worked by the day at odd jobs. Later he rented a shanty and started a con- fectionery and cigar stand and in that way got his start. He afterward be- came associated with Francis Girard and opened a saloon. They prospered in this business, accumulated rapidly and within three years they owned three farms. For several years Mr. Manna was interested in Bull Run ferry, three miles above Clyde, and another on the Republican, opposite Clyde. He homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land which he sold in 1887 and bought a bottom farm across the Republican river, one and one-half miles from Clyde, which he still owns and has repeatedly refused six thousand dol- lars for. He owns and erected the building the postofifice is. now in, in 1884, at a cost of forty-one hundred dollars, and before the building was erected he refused twenty-seven hundred dollars for the lot. He also put-up the building now occupied by Delude Brothers, in 1882, at a cost of about four thousand dollars. He sold this building at one time and subsequently with Mr. Rigneir bought it back again, making a margin of about eight hundred dollars in the deal. He also owns two very desirable cottages in Clyde. Mr. .Manna is a native of Canada, province of Quebec, born in 1836. ^^^^en quite a young man he went to Wisconsin, where he worked in the pin- eries until losing his eyesight, as related in the beginning of this sketch. Mr. Manna has never been married. He has two brothers living in the state of \^'^ashington, a sister in Rhode Island and a brother in Iowa. He is a mem- ber of the Catholic church. REVEREND HEMINGWAY J. GAYLORD. The late Reverend H. J. Gaylord was one of the most successful and one of the most beloved divines Clyde has ever known. He was born in Oticea, New York, February 17, 181 3. He fitted for college at Homer Academy, New York, and graduated from Amherst College in 1837, com- pleting his theological course at Auburn Seminary in 1840. His first sup- ply was at the old brick church in Rochester, New York, in 1842. He accepted a call to Union, that state, where he was ordained May 26 of the same year. He afterward filled several supplies in Massachusetts and' Dela- ware. Doctor Hill, synodical missionar}', knew Reverend Gaylord in the east and through his efforts he was persuaded to come to Kansas in 1878, and located in Clyde as the stated supply of the church there. His labors had been very successful in the east, especially at Port Penn, Delaware, where he built a church with a congregation of twelve hundred people. He was also very successful at Delaware City and at Odessa, where he built a beautiful church. Reverend Gaylord served in the ministry over fifty years. He died at his home in West Clyde March 23, 1901, at the advanced age of eighty-eight years. Doctor Baker, who preached his funeral sermon, said in his discourse: "Reverend Gaylord had two prominent traits which im- pressed him. His great spirituality and the broadness of his great Chris- tian faith." While loyal to his own faith he loved all Christian denomina- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 499 tionS; and at his funeral the ministers of the various churches were present and assisted, as Mrs. Gaylord kneW it would be carrying out his feelings and sentiments. He had been instrumental in the conversion of many prominent men. When Doctor Hill met Mr. Gaylord he said at once he was the man they needed in Kansas. In Clyde, where there were chvirch dissensions, he was instrumental in bringing about harmony. \Miile in charge of the church here he supplied at different times the pulpits at Clifton, Rose church. Pal- mer and others in that vicinity. PTis last active work in the ministry follow- ing the cessation of his pastorate in 18S5, was a supply of the church at Chanute, Kansas, in the winter of the same year. Reverend Gaylord was married in 1841 to Cordelia, a daughter of Dea- con Ranson Dickerson, of Sunduland, Massachusetts, who died in 1847, leaving two sons, Edward and William. Edward laid down his life for his country at the battle of Petersburg, and William early entered the ministry. By the second marriage, to Mary PL, daughter of H. M. Mack, of Plainfield, Massachusetts, November 22, 1854, six children were born, three of whom are living. Mrs. Gaylord survives her husband and resides in Clyde. She orgahized the first Home Missionary .Society, and the ladies responded gen- erously. The elder members have passed out but an earnest force of younger women have succeeded them. Reverend Gaylord was a man of warm per- sonal sympathies. His best monument is in the hearts of those who loved him. A. W. GERHARDT. A. W. Gerhardt, one of Clyde's leading merchants and most highly respected citizens, is a self-made man. He has had less than one year of schooling, but acquired an education in a practical way, has not been out of a position two weeks since ten years of age, and never asked for a job but once. Mr. Gerhardt was born on a farm near Evansville, Indiana, in 1857. At the age of ten years he came with his father's family to Junction City, Kan- sas, when that town was the freighting center to various points north, south and west. His father, William Gerhardt, died within three months after locating there, leaving Mrs. Gerhardt with four daughters and a son, and less than one dollar in money. There were many avenues at that time through which a boy could earn money, and although but ten years of age Mr. Gerhardt became the support of the family. His first employer was T. A. Reynolds, and later the Rockwells, who are still in business in Junc- tion City, and from there he accepted a position on the road as traveling sales- man for W. A. Schmertz & Company, a wholesale boot and shoe house. Mr. Gerhardt was young and youthful in appearance, often wishing for a mus- tache to suggest that he was old enough and capable of doing business. In 1888 he located in Mankato, Kansas, opening a store of general merchandise. He was burned out in 1893. The stock was insured for about half its value. After paying his creditors he had something like a loss of fifty-six hundred 500 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. dollars. He then opened a store in Belle Plaine, Iowa, which he sold at the expiration of eighteen months and established his present business in Clyde in 1896. Mr. Gerhardt's mother died in 1893. Of his four sisters, three are in the vicinity of Junction City, the other in the southern part of the state. ]\Ir. Gerhardt was married in 1890 to May E. Thompson, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. They have one child, a son, Leslie Robert, aged ten years. The Thompsons were of Newburg, New York, and emigrated to Iowa in a very early day, where Mrs. Gerhardt was born. Mr. Gerhardt's parents were from Germany. They came to America in their early married life, where all of .their children were born except the eldest. Mr.. Gerhardt is an elder in the Presbyterian church and superintendent of the Sabbath school. He is a member of the Woodmen and Workmen orders. JOSEPH GILLETT. .\mong the many old residents and well-to-do farmers of Elk township is Joseph Gillett, who came to Kansas in 1871. Mr. Gillett had just attained his majority when he resolved to begin the battles of life in a new country and therefore turned his attention to the west, and settled in Republic county. He ^^as the right kind of a young man, full of determination to succeed and applied his energies toward making a home. In 1877 he removed to Cloud coun- tv and bought his present well improved farm, which is situated three miles north of Clyde. About this time Mr. Gillett began to realize the importance of taking unto himself a wife to share in his struggles and responsibilities as well as enjoy his successes, and the following year was married to Miss Ella Steiner. One child came to gladden their home, Sadie May, but the angel of death deprived them of their little daughter, at the interesting age of five and one-half years. Mr. Gillett was born in the state of Illinois, in 1857. His father wis of New York birth but emigrated to Illinois early in life and when our subject came to Kansas his father accompanied him and established a continuous residence. Mr. Gillett's mother died in 1879. There was a large family of children, six sons and six daughters and all are living. Politically Mr. Gillett is and has always been a Democrat. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America and the Royal Neighbors. A modern residence, a comfortable country home and broad fields of cultivated land are keynotes to the people themselves and their lives. Alen of this class to which Air. Gillett belongs are invariably good citizens. EATON ANDERSON. The subject of this sketch is Eaton Anderson, an old resident of Elk township and one of the many prosperous farmers of that locality. Mr. Anderson was born on the \A^estern Reserve, Portage county, Ohio, May 18, 1845. His paternal grandfather was of Scotch birth. He emigrated to America early in life and settled on the Reserve three miles south of Ravenna, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 501 and not many miles distant from Canton, the home of our late martyred Presi- dent, William McKinley. The grandmother and aged wife survives, quietly waiting at the old homestead for the messenger that will summon her to join the husband of her youth. Mr. Anderson is a son of James Anderson, who was born, reared and married in Pennsylvania. His mother, Sarah Eaton, was born in the same state. Her grandfather left England, his native land, and settled in Penn- sylvania in an early day. Mr. Anderson's parents removed to Ohio and sub- sequently to Kosciusko county, Indiana, near the town of Warsaw, where they both passed away, his mother in 1856 and his father in 1873. Mr. Anderson and a sister, Mrs. Rebecca Romine, of Newton county, Indiana are the only surviving members of a family of twelve children. Mr. Anderson was married in 1869 to Wilhelmina E. Ilanolds, a daugh- ter of Bowman Hanolds. Her paternal grandfather, who had followed the sea as a "jolly tar," emigrated to America and settled in Salem, New Jersey, where her father was born. Bowman Hanolds removed to Ohio and was married in that state and reared a family of nine children, but four of whom are living, three daughters and one son. The brother cast his lot and fort- unes in Alamosa, a thriving little city in the San Luis valley of Colorado. He is a railroad man. There is one sister in Nebraska and one in Michi- gan. Li 1874 Mr. and Mrs. Anderson removed to Colorado and resided for two and one-half years in Colorado Springs, while Mr. Anderson freighted through and over the mountain districts of the southern and west- ern part of the state when the great railroad system that now intersects that region was unknown beyond Pueblo. In 1877 he removed to the San Luis valley and located four miles west of Monte Vista, where he opei^ated a dairy very successfully, one year's output amounting to seven hundred and fifty pounds of butter. Mrs. Anderson's health becoming impared by the high altitude of that country, they sold their interests there and started on an overland journey without any special destination in view. Uppermost in their thoughts was a desire to locate where their children would be accorded educational advantages. The fame of Kansas, her school privileges, the bul- wark of independence, attracted their attention and September 7, 1881 found them located in Cloud county, a consummation tliey have never regretted, for continued prosperity has been their recompense. Mr. Anderson's farm is the original homestead of Walter G. Reid, the present register of deeds of Cloud county. A small creek runs through his land, and the trees that grow along its banks impart a pleasing effect to the landscape. The little cottonwood house has been razed to the ground and sup- planted by a comfortable seven room residence. The principal product of the farm is corta and Mr. Anderson has -never had a total failure of that crop. In 1889 he had eighty acres that yielded five thousand and two hun- dred bushels. He raises cattle, hogs and horses. Of the latter he is par- donably proud of a span of four year old trotters of pure Hambletonian stock. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Anderson : Maud, their 30 502 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. first liorn. died when two years of age in the state of Michigan. Walter F., is a resident of North Dakota. Lulu Belle, is the wife of George C. Packard, who is connected with the Lumber, Milling and Mercantile Com- pany, of Mansfield, Arkansas, an extensive concern. Grace Ellen, a six- teen-year-old daughter, is a student of district No. 96. In politics Mr. Anderson is a stalwart Democrat. He has been a valued member of the school board of District No. 96, more commonly known as the "Boggs district," for twelve years. The family are members of the Clyde congregation of the Christain church, and among the most esteemed citi- :zens of the community. Mr. Anderson is a broad-minded man, "with malice toward none and charity for all," a man of pleasing address and an interesting conversationalist. He has established for himself a good name which "is better than apples of gold and pictures of silver." GARY J. PAGE. It is said, "history repeats itself," and if that be true each lover of his- tory will be interested in the following sketch of C. J. Page, one of Cloud county's prosperous, energetic, well-to-do farmers and horticulturists. To attain perfection and financial success in any pursuit, years of experience and careful study must be passed through to determine the best and quick- est mode of reaching the coveted "straight road" of independence. Mr. Page has not aimed at sudden leaps but once a step is taken it is forward and never backward, feeling the way with prudence and careful deliberation; to this he owes his wtll-tilled farm and fine bearing orchard. If "tall oaks from little acorns grow," large majestic trees owe their infancy to tiny sprouts, and what Kansas farmer's wife does not remember being admonished, "not to step on the trees in the grove" which had the appearance of brown lead pencils set out in rows. But one season passes, when lo! the tender little shoots of green spring out here and there and demonstrate to her doubting mind that those little rods are actually trees, and how their growth was carefully watched by the whole household and neighbors as well, for settlers were as one large family, so united were their interests. The orchard so carefully planted not many years age and now in its prime, yielded bountifully in 1902. Mr. Page came to Kansas in the year 1870, and settled in Elk township. His present commodious and happy home is the original homestead where after years of toil he can rest from the burden of the day under his "own vine and fig tree." During the grasshopper year, Mr. Page had three hundred trees besides a number of grafts destroyed by the "hoppers," but nothing daunted, he re-planted and has been well rewarded by the present results, and like all true Kansans, stoutly declares his loyalty to the "Sunflower" state, and does not know where he could have made any better stand, than in this world renowned commonwealth, truthfully called, "Sunny Kansas." The subject of this sketch is a native of Defiance county, Ohio, he was HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 503 born on a farm in the year 1841, and in company with his parents, while yet in his childhood, emigrated to Iowa and settled near Des Moines. At that early date Iowa was a wild and new country. The Indian roaming and hunt- ing with all the freedom of the deer that fearlessly wandered down to the rivers and creeks for their evening drink. Three years afterward and dur- ing the troublesome times prior to the breaking out of the war, the family settled in eastern Kansas, and when matters became strenuous, and uneasy feelings prevailed throughout this section, they removed to Warren county, Illinois, and from this point Mr. Page enlisted in the First Missouri Engi- neers of the West, (which sliould have Jjeen called Colonel Bissell's First Missouri Engineers of the West) Company C, and served three years; this company was finally merged into Company B; their duties consisted of re- building of railroads and bridges. Mr. Page stood in water almost con- stantly; as a result contracted illness and was sent to the hospital where he remained nine months. His regiment took part in the Missouri campaign against Price's army in 186I; also the capture of New Madrid, Missouri and Island No. 10. They were engaged in the Corinth campaign in 1862, the battle of Corinth that took place October 3-4, 1862, and the never to be forgotten siege of Vicksburg. Mr. Page, after three years service returned to his home and re-enlisted as a substitute in the year 1864. A subject that had been drafted offered him $i,coo to supply his place. As it was his inten- tion to re-enlist, he accepted the $1,000 and joined Company B, 12th Illin- ois Infantry, where he was in active service ten months; participating in the battles of Kingston "and Goldsboro, North Carolina. His regiment was under the command of General Schofield and later joined Sherman's army where long marches through swamps, and dangers from shot and shell assailed the brave boys in blue, and on every side the heavy tramp, tramp of weary feet. "Our bugles sang truce for the night clouds had lowered. And the sentinel stars set their watch in the sky. Thousands had sunk on the ground, overpowered — The weary to sleep and the wounded to die." After the close of the war Mr. Page was honorably discharged and re- turned to Illinois. January i, 1866, he was married to Josephine Reed, a daughter of David Kingsley Reed of Warren county, Illinois. Her parents were residents later on, of Cawker City, Kansas, followed later by a removal to Clyde, Kansas, and are now sleeping the quiet slumber of the dead, resting peacefully in the pretty little cemetery of Mount Hope. One year after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Page they moved to Iowa, but feeling that was not the place to make a home, emigrated to Kansas, which was then still new. Many changes had taken place since their first advent in the state in 1857. Mr. Page came to the "poor man's country," penniless and endured without murmuring the many privations incident to a new country, and has acquired 1iis present competency through his untiring indus- 504 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. try and enterprise. The first move after getting to tlie frontier was to take up a claim; tjie next move was to make a dugout, and dig a well. This was called home and their very own, where no sour visaged landlord presented a bill for the collection of rent. Their little dugout while not a thing of beauty was a warm shelter and more comfortable than many of their neigh- bors were possessed of. They lived two years in this unpretentious dwelling place and then erected a small frame dwelling. Mr. and Mrs. Page are the proud parents of twelve children, all of whom are living and not one to spare, each holding its own individual place in the hearts of the parents. These children have all been reared on the Kansas homestead, have done credit to the training anVl schooling they have received and are fine representatives of the state to which they belong; they are possessed of more than average intelligence. There are six sons and six daughters, and each of these twelve children have brown eyes. Emma B., is the v.-ife of Bert Eashbaugh, a farmer near Zella, Kansas. Alfred M., the oldest son, is a farmer living east of Clyde. Phoebe, wife of Henrv Schriver, a farmer near Elmwood, Kansas. Edmond Willis, a teamster of Boise City, Idaho. Mary, wife of Henry Baker, a farmer but at present employed in a grocery store at Boise City, Idaho. Arthur, a horse buyer is a resident of Clyde. Alia, wife of W^alter Harrison, a carpenter and mine owner of Boise City, Idaho. Josie, is unmarried and lives under the parental roof. John assists his father in the duties of the farm. Nellie, wife of C. N. Bunda, who operates an elevator at McLouth, Kansas. Frank and Verr, aged respectively sixteen and fourteen years, are attending school in District No. 15, where all of these dozen children received their educa- tion. The family are faithful attendants and members of the United Brethren church. When the society was organized at the Crammer school house the majority of the members consisted of the several Page families, hence it was given the name of "Page Congregation." After darkness comes dawn, and after many struggles and lowering clouds in -the battle of life come rifts of sunshine as a reward for a well spent life. Mr. Page and his estimable wife are now enjoying the comforts of a pleasant home. JAMES W. LAW. Prominent among the old settlers of the Clyde vicinity is James W. Law an old soldier of the Civil war, who homesteaded near the western ijoundary of Elk township in 1871. Mr. Law is a native of Ohio, born in Guernsey county, in 1835 ; for his ancestors the reader is referred to the sketch of the late Judge Eorton, whose wife is a sister. Mr., Law emigrated to Iowa three years prior to locating in Kansas, but joined the innumerable throng that eagerly sought homes in the promising new commonwealth. For sev- eral years he struggled with destiny, for his capital was limited and com- modities high. For seed corn and oats he paid one' dollar and a quarter, and eighty cents per bushel, respectively. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 505 Mr. Law narrated an entertaining incident which occurred in 1873. The prairies at that time presented about the same appearance in every direc- tion, and it was a very easy matter for even a settler to lose his way after nightfall, but our subject proceeded to lose himself in the morning of a foggy day. He was enroute to visit his neighbor, McDonald, and in some unac- countable manner lost his bearings and instead of traveling northward, he was trending toward the opposite cardinal point. After wandering around and about indefinitely, he came in contact with a friendly dugout, and was so bewildered he did not recognize his neighboring settler's wife, Mrs. Cary Page, and the estranged wanderer inquired with the utmost reserve as if he were in a foreign land, "can you direct me to J. W. Law's?" With a merry twinkle in the eye of lus hostess and the desired information the recognition became mutual, although there was nothing left for Mr. Law to do but admit he \\'as thoroughly duped ; he was in sympathy with the wandering savage who stoutly declared, "Injun not lost, wigwam lost." August 22, 1862, Mr. Law enlisted in Company G, One hundred and twenty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry and served under the command of Colonel William Ball and Captain O. G. Farcjuahar until mustered out with bis company in Washington, D. C, in April, 1865, and honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio. He was "drummer boy" and served the entire term with- out being furloughed. His company participated in many important battles ; among them, Gettysburg, battle of the Wilderness, Petersburg, Richmond, Cold Harbor, at Spottsylvania, where his company lost ten men; they were in the Shenandoah Valley campaign and with Sheridan on his famous ride which has been immortalized by Greenleaf Whittier in his beautiful poem. During one engagement in the Shenandoah his regiment fought their way through the ranks, mowing down men as they went. In this mad charge Company G counted a loss of half their men by shot and shell and could not tarry to remove their dead and wounded. Company G was also at Appo- mattox, where General Lee surrendered. The veterans relate their prowess of war to the "sons of- veterans" who in turn will pass their achievements on down the line to their sons and thus the courage and valor of the "boys in blue" will live countless ages. To have served under the "stars and stripes" is a never forgotten glory after having faithfully served "Uncle Sam." After the cessation of hostilities, Mr. Law returned to the home of his boyhood, was married to Miss Louisa J. Bainter, and shortly afterward emigrated to Iowa, where his parents had preceded them two years. To Mr. and Mrs. Law seven children have been born, three of whom died in infancy Francis M., their eldest son, is a carpenter and resides in Con- cordia; his wife before her marriage was Minnie H. Ellis; they are the par- ents of two children, Ethel and W^ilbur Francis. Minnie A-I., their only daughter is a prepossessing young woman ; she lives under the parental roof. Leivis W. B., who has ably assisted his father on the farm, is now a student of the Great Western Business College, of Concordia. The youngest son, 5o6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Elmer E., aged seventeen, was named for Colonel Elsworth of the famous "Elsworth Zouaves" who was killed at Alexandria, Virginia. Mr. Law takes an active interest in the Grand Army of the Republic and is -a member of Conforth Post, of Clyde. The Law homestead is a fractional quarter section, comprised princi- pally of second bottom land, and yields excellent corn, has never been an en- tire failure, with the exception of the grasshopper year. The little frame house of one room has been supplanted by a comfortable seven-room resi- dence and although they were compelled to live in a very frugal way, resort- nig to all sorts of economy to live within their means, after buffeting with many hardships and discouragements Mr. Law and his family anchored in a safe harbor of prosperity. Their country home is made particularly pleasing by a garden of beautiful vari-colored flowers, where rich in nature's hues many varieties of chrysanthernums, asters and bright blushing cosmos nod to and fro in the breeze, recalling the sentiment — "In every flower around that blooms, some pleasing emblem we may trace." Mr. Law has always lived a straight-forward, upright life and enjoys the universal esteem of all v>'ho know him. ^ MYRON E. WEBSTER. ?dvron E. AVebster is a native of Christain county, Illinois, born in the year i860. His father was Myron P. Webster. Webster is a good old name and the subject of this sketch traces his lineage back to the world renowned Daniel and Noah Webster, and their descendants justly pride themselves on their "family tree." Mr. Webster's mother was a native of Vermont; before her marriage she was Julia Chase. After she removed to New York she met and was married to Myron P. Webster. They emigrated to Springfield, Illinois at an early day, traveling over the chain of lakes, and down the Illi- nois river in a small boat, much after the pattern of canal boats drawn by horses on a tow path at the side of the river, possibly not quite as quick transit as by cars, but exceedingly safe, and in earlier days people seemed to have more time to jaunt through the country. At that period only one rail- road ran through the state, and that is now the Wabash. When this road was built the tracks were made of wood with iron nailed on the top. Myron E. Webster is one of nine children, eight of whom are living and all are resi- dents of the state of Kansas; their homes embracing Clay, Washington and Cloud counties, excepting a sister in Kansas City, Kansas, and one brother in Ellsworth county. There are none so distant as to make it impossible to meet occasionally in pleasurable family revinions, where they can indulge in a retrospective rehearsal of childhood days when cares were unknown. Mr. Webster owned a small farm in Washington county, near the Cloud county line, which he disposed of, and in 1890, purchased the "Nick Guiger" farm on the main Elk creek, one of the most desirable farms in the country, and under his management it has been a great success. He had 13,000 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 507 bushels of corn carried over for several seasons, some of it as far back as five years and his farm was called "Egypt" because of the abundance of corn, when there was a shortage in the country. People came from Concor- dia and other points hauling it away in wagons and paid from sixty to sev- enty cents per bushel; it was bought principally for feed. To the hungry stock it was a priceless boon and if their satisfaction could have been expressed in words they would have shouted^ "Corn is king." Mr. Webster's farm lands consist of two hundred acres in Cloud county and five hundred acres in the Republican river valley in Clay county, where he had three hundred acres in corn, two hundred of which was washed out by floods. He gener- ally plants two-thirds of his land in corn. In the years 1896-7 he raised one hundred and twenty acres of corn that averaged fifty-five bushels to the acre. He does not raise much stock. Mr. Webster was married in 1888, to Lora V. Matthews, a daughter of William Matthews, who died in the army of a gunshot wound, and from over- exertion, gangrene set in causing his death. He was buried in Nashville, Tennessee. Mrs. Webster's family emigrated to Kansas in 1879; her mother now resides in Beatrice, Nebraska. Her family consists of two sons and one daughter; one of the sons is older than Mrs. Webster and the other younger. To Mr. and Mrs. Webster have been born three children; the eldest, Lila Gay, deceased at the age of eight years. Longfellow beautifully tells us. "There is no flock however watched and tended, but one dead lamb is there." An infant was deceased January, 1902. One daughter remains to her parents' loving care, Julia May. She has considerable talent for nmsic and her parents are ambitious to cultivate the gift; she is also very apt in her studies and a general favorite. Mr. and Mrs. Webster and daughter have recently returned from an extended trip to the coast, after visiting many places of interest. The Webster home, a pretty cottage, is beautifully situated near the banks of Elk creek, which is a running stream of water, a greater part of the year and is skirted by heavy timber. The stream is crossed by a rustic bridge, reminding the beholder of a dainty picture painted by an artist that loves a bit of sky, a purling stream winding its way through mossy banks shadowed by overhanging trees where bright plummed birds fearlessly sing from morn till dewy eve. The cottage is surrounded by trees and a grassy lawn, adding much to its appearance. Mr. Webster bfought some cedars and pines froni Washington to test their growth in Kansas soil and climate. He had previously been rewarded by the fine growth of a dozen or more evergreens. In politics Mr. Webster is a Republican, has been a member of the school board nine years, and during his reign a new school house has been erected. Mr. Webster and family are members of the Baptist church, Clyde congregation. He is also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows and Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is one of the very pros- perous men of the township, possessing a keen, shrewd eye for business 5o8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. which makes money, and money begets many comforts and pleasures. Mrs. Webster has helped with true womanly instmcts to bridge over many diffi- culties, and has been a helpmate and companion, an unselfish, devoted wife and mother. JOHN W. JOINER. J. W. Joiner, one of the pioneer settlers of Elk township, located in Cloud county, September 30, 1870, and bought the Harley Williams home- stead where he has since resided. The Joiner home is an exceedingly pleas- ant one and bespeaks all the comforts and conveniences of a well appointed farm house. Mr. Joiner's capital of five hundred dollars that he brought to Kansas was well invested. He, with his sons William L. and John E., own a section of land that averages well with the magnificent farms of that vicinity. They were very recently offered $6,700 for one quarter section. Mr. Joiner, like many Kansans had a rough up-hill climb and has doubtless been oftentimes weari'y discouraged, but after darkness comes dawn, and with the first streak of approaching light, renewed courage to push on. Instead of the present commodious residence and broad fields of cultivated land there were but a few acres of sod turned and a log house with one room below and a loft above. At a ti-ifling expense they obtained a "roof-garden," not so extended as those that grace some of our modern cities, but where the sun-flower and tall grasses grew in abundance, for the covering was of Kansas soil. This little cabin was later provided with a shingled roof and they continued to occupy it for five years and as all old settlers testify "there were passed the happiest days of their lives." Mr. Joiner was born in the northwestern part of North Carolina, in the town of Sparta, in 1833. His paternal grandfather was of English birth and settled in North Carolina in an early day. Our subject's father died on the homestead in the early "seventies, a few years later he was followed by the wife and mother who also died in the old southern home. She was of German origin, her father having been of German birth. Her maiden name was Hopper. Mr. Joiner is the fifth child of a family of nine, all of whom but one are living and all but the su1.)ject of this sketch are residents of North Carolina. Mr. Joiner was married in 1866 to Emeline Edwards, also of southern birth. Her father was a slaveholder for a short time. To Mr. and Mrs. Joiner have been born eleven children, six of whom are living; four were deceased in early infancy. The angel of death visited this family and claimed one of their daughters. Myrtle E., a bright and promising young woman of twenty-one years. She was a pupil of the Clyde high school, preparatory to entering upon a commercial course. Caroline is the wife of C. A. Parker, a harness dealer of Clyde. Phoebe J. is the wife of A. C. Garwood; they reside in Sacramento, California. Sarah E., is the wife of William Trow- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 509 bridge, a farmer of Elk township. Nellie, is the wife of Burt Arten, a car- riage and wagon repairer of Clyde. Mr. Joiner was a soldier of the Confederacy; he was conscripted and served one and one-half years, entering the second year of the campaign and remaining until he was discharged for disability. There are ever some incidents occurring to give a merry side to the darker one, and many amusing episodes with contingent circumstances have mitigated the woes of soldiering. Mr. Joiner relates the following: There were thousands of "Yankees" and a few "Johnnies" matching through a field when one of the rebels fell wounded. Mr. Joiner and a comrade lifted him from the ground and tenderly carried him across the rough land. When they had gained a pkce of safe retreat their burden softly remarked "let me see, perhaps I can walk now," whereupon the two weary and almost breathless soldiers of the gray placed their cumbersome load on its feet. The next moment he was running at full speed, faster than his rescuei^s could possibly have done after transporting so many pounds avoirdupois over the broken field. Just after the close of the war with its attendant horrors and scenes of bloodshed, Mr. and Mrs. Joiner with their three little children emigrated to Indiana, and six months later to Harding county, Iowa, where they resided until coming to Kansas, the "mecca" for homeseekers. He made a wise choice and does not regret the venture, although he would have returned and declared his intention of doing, so as soon as financial conditions would per- mit, but says he would not know where to better his present condition, and is well contait to continue in the home where every comfort is provided. One of the more recent branches of diversified farming in which they are engaged is their herd of twelve milk cows. At times this number is exceeded. The milk is sold to the creamery. Mr. Joiner has also been successful in hog raising; he sold one thousand dollars worth in 1900. They also find profit in poultry. Mr. Joiner is one of the most reliable, honorable, and highly esteemed citizens of Elk township and there is no more loyal or useful citizen in the community. He is genero\is, just and kind. Mrs. Joiner is a worthy and most excellent woman ; she has done her full share toward acquiring their present competency. The family are members of the Baptist church of Clyde. Mr. .Joiner has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for more than thirty years. JOHN G. HOSE. In the year 1871, J. G. Hose arrived in Cloud county, Kansas and lo- cated the land in Elk township from which his present fine farm has developed. His financial resources at this time summed up a total of fifty cents, but by daily labor he soon saved enough to secure the homestead pa- pers. Mr. Hose bought the relinquishment of John Garrison. There was a 5IO HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. dugout on the claim and in this pioneer abode the settler "bached" as was the custom when the newcomer was not the happy possessor of or accompanied by his wife and family. The birth place of I\'Ir. Hose is Massillon, Ohio, born in the year 1848. The parents of Mr. Hose were of German birth; early in their married life they emigrated to America and settled in Ohio. While yet in his boyhood hi? parents removed to Indiana where our subject grew to man's estate. His father died in 1890, preceded by the mother in 1886. Mr. Hose is one of seven children, all of whom are living with the exception of one brother, who died of small-pox in Mishawaka, Indiana, in 1902. David, the eldest brother resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado; he is a carpenter by traJe. Two sisters, Mrs. L. J, and F. D. Smith are residents of Clyde and two sisters live in Indiana. Mr. Hose was married in 1866, to Sarah Steiner, whom he knew as a playmate in his Indiana home. In 1891 the husband and five children were left to mourn the loss of wife and mother. Their first born, Harry Hose, is a young farmer of Elk township, and married Miss Jennie Smock. To their union a pair of twin sons have beai born, Roy and Ray, aged five years. Daniel E., the second son is a prosperous farmer living near Hollis, He married Miss Mollie Bowersock and they are the parents of a son and heir, aged about one year. Daisy, Charlie and Hattie are unmarried and live at home. The latter is -her father's housekeeper and assumes the cares of a matron with grace and tact. Early in life Mr. Hose learned the carpenter trade and many of the best residences in the township are monuments of his workmanship. As an ag- riculturist he ranks with the first. To be a successful farmer does not con- sist alone of plowing, seeding and sowing but requires far-seeing faculties, the same well balanced ideas that are essential to the prosperous merchant or banker, study of the many and varied details. For several years Mr. Hose owned and operated a threshing machine and in this calling, along with his building and farming interests, all of which he plied with diligence, Mr. Hose found himself prospering. In connection with his threshing ex- periences Mr. Hose referred to the grasshopper year and its effect upon the grain. One man's stacks were alive with "hoppers," a mixture of half and half, but fearful if postponed there would be no grain left he had it threshed and afterward run the cereal through a fanning mill. While the thought of the jumping insects being beaten through with the grain is not a whole- some one, those days of anxiety and strenuous times, supplies pardon for any reproof that might be offered for the offense. They found the pests very troublesome, as their oily bodies would gum and stop the belts of the ma- chine. Ill the early 'eighties Mr. Hose erected a three room frame cottage and four years later built a two story front, which makes a commodious resi- dence of nine rooms, with verandas and bay windows. This one of the best country homes in the con^munity. His farm is well improved, with good HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 511 barn, sheds, and an inexhaustible well of pure water. If pumped constantly night and day the flow would not, be lessened. In politics Mr. Hose is a Democrat, In religious proclivities he and his family are members of the Christain. church, Clyde congregation, in which he is serving as a deacon. Our subject and his family are among the pros- perous and representative people of Elk township and their prosperity has been justly earned. WILLIAM H, PAGE. W. H. Page is in the broadest sense of the word an old and respected pioneer, having emigrated to Shirley (now Cloud) county, Kansas in March, 1866. He was attracted by the flow of home seekers on the way to the new "Eldorado," turned his back upon the old home in seeking his fortunes in £h£ new, where nature seems to be kinder and more considerate to her chil- dren, in that her harvests to them yield richer with less toil of the hands and sweat of the brow so necessary among the rocky hills of the east. Mr. Page pre-einpted the land on which the town of Clyde now stands and as stated in the history of Clyde. The Town Company made him an of- fer, and thinking three hundred dollars a large price (greater than he would have given for the land) closed the deal. He could not believe or foresee a town of any dimensions spring up on the prairie one hundred and fifty miles from a trading point and could not conjure up in his wildest imagina- tions that the now prosperous town and the hills densely populated could spring up and prosper. The land grant which Mr. Page possessed consisted of eighty acres, for which he paid the usual government fee, one dollar and a quarter per acre. The Town Company purchased forty acres and other parties the remaining forty. Mr. Page made several trades and deals until the year of 1875, when he bought the Joel Miller homestead two and three- quarters miles west and one and one-quarter miles north of Clyde, which he has steadily improved and made for himself and family the comfortable and pleasant home of today. Mr. Page married in the year 1876, Lizzie A. Dutton, who was reared in his native state, Ohio, where a boy and girlhood friendship began, cul- minating in a closer tie. Alas, the beloved wife wa"s deceased June 17, 1885, leaving as a solace one child, Aura L., a most estimable, obedient, and lov- ing daughter, to help the bereaved father with kindly advice and brighten with rays of sunshine the desolated home. Miss Page received her education in her home school district No. 15, and later four years in Clyde, making the best possible use of her advantages. She is now her father's comfort in his declining years. She is refined and gentle, possesses a kindly and amiable disposition, is intelligent above the average, and a true woman. She was but a child of eight years when her mother died and she deserves great credit for her management of the household and its "multiplicity of cares thrust so early upon her young shoulders. Two children died in infancy. 512 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Page is a native of Meigs county, Ohio, and was born in the year 1829. His early days were spent on a farm. In i860, he emigrated to Mis- souri, and one year later moved to Iowa, Freemont county, where he enlisted in the 4th Regmient, Company A, Iowa Cavalry, under Captain Benjamin Rector, commanded by Colonel A. B. Porter, of Mt. Pleasant, loM'a. Cap- tain Rector died from illness in 1862, and J. B. Rust, second lieu- tenant of the company succeeded him. Colonel Porter resigned and was succeeded by Edward F. Winston, who was promoted from Cap- tain of Company B, to Captain of Company A. Mr. Page en- listed as a private and the last four years of the war was rewarded for valiant and fearless action by being promoted to a second lieu- tenancy. His company was ordered from Springfield, Mission to join Gen- eral Curtis and his forces at Batesville, Arkansas, and while enroute were camped at Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, when the following exciting, thrill- ing and amusing incident transpired : One of the cavalry horses broke lose from its fastening and glad of its freedom galloped unrestrained, bringing up to the picket lines; the night was very dark and the guard who had not long filled this post of duty, naturally fired upon the liberated steed. The report of his musket was heard in camp, as soldiers seem gifted by prac- tice with double vision and bearing and were immediately aroused to action; supposing it was an attack, the wildest confusion of orders and movements prevailed; horses were saddled, fire arms seized in a fever of wild excitement and haste, each captain forming liis men in line on the spot that was near- est, making as many ranks as companies, and in the event of action would have in all probability been shooting over each other's heads. The buglers were ringing out a half dozen different orders and a hundred voices were shouting; "Put out the fires!" "Put out the fires!" In the meantime the guards nearest the picket line soon learned the cause of the alarm and after a half hour of bewilderment and uproar an understanding that an engagement at that time was not imminent was effected, and out of chaos quiet reigned again. Orders were given to unsaddle and the men gathered their scat- tered and battered accoutrements of war together. Upon this occasion a story was told of Colonel Porter which made him the subject of much mirth and was said to be the real cause of his retirement. The colonel, being sud- denly awakened, was very much excited by the commotion of a supposed charge by the rebel forces called vehemently for "Tobe." (Bartleff, the chief bugler.) As "Tobe" appeared, bugle in hand, the Colonel cried: "Blow, Tobe, blow!" without specifying what order he should blow. "Tobe" stood embarrassed and bewildered, awaiting orders, when his commander shouted vorciferously, "Blow! why don't you blow?" "But what shall I blow?" cried the anxious trumpeter? The colonel, fairly gasping for breath, screamed: "Blow? Blow your bugle, d you." At Cotton Plant, Arkansas, Mr. Page's regiment captured a few prisoners. One of the company soldiers was a Dutchman and when he returned to camp he seized one of the captives by the shoulder shaking HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 513 him vigorously, said. "'Vat for you make war mit Sigel? You yust break up the best government vat never vas," and in withering tones and cutting- sarcasm added, "you g — d d — n secesh." Mr. Page with his company saw service principally through Arkansas. At Mechanicsburg, about forty miles above Vicksburg, where they marched every Sunday, they vipon one occa- sion found the enemy very stubborn and made a severe saber fight. One of the heaviest charges made was at Bear creek, near Vicksburg, where one hundred and twenty men were detained to guard the road that General Johnston's army must pass and made a heavy fight with a loss of ten men killed on the field, several taken prisoners and only eight to return to camp. IMr. Page is justly proud of his war record, as he fought bravely for his flag and his country. After many years on his farm Mr. Page can look with pride at his trees, both fruit and ornamental, all put out by his own hands. His apple trees have yielded an abundant crop and his yard is adorned by numerous evergreens which add to its beauty. In later years Mr. Page has leased his ground consisting of two hundred and seventy-eight acres of excellent land. His crops are principally wheat, corn and oats. He has re- tired from actual farm labor, thus giving him ample time to attend to his orchard and poultry. Mr. Page is a true Republican and was elected county commissioner in the year 1870. He is a public spirited man, taking an active interest in all topics of the day as published in the leading news- papers. Mr. Page's paternal ancestors were of French origin. His father's ma- ternal ancestors, the Mosiers were from England, thus uniting French and English ancestry. Mr. Page is now enjoying a rest well earned after a busy life and his record is above reproach. ' VALENTINE CHRISTIAN. Valentine Christian is one of the oldest settlers who still reside on the land he homesteaded in October, 1870, and, although he and his family have passed many hardships since emigrating to Kansas, they have been happy and contented and are staunch friends of the "Sunflower state." For six months Mr. Christian did not possess a penny nor a postage stamp until through the vigilant eye of the great hearted "Uncle" Fleller, who always had the welfare of his fellowmen at heart and who not only gave words of consolation and comfort, but that which is of more value in such a time, his store of worldly nature. He had observed otir subject was not posting his usual quota of letters and perhaps suspecting the real cause, this good man remarked one day, "Mr. Christian, you are not mailing many letters these days?" Our subject replied, "No sir, I have not got the postage." Whereupon "Uncle" Heller, with an expression of deep feeling and sympathy, said, "Do not re- frain from writing your friends for that rea.son; take all the stamps you want; all I ask is you to pay me quarterly." Mr. Christian acted upon the generous impulse of "Uncle" Heller and at one time owed a bill for postage 514 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of $1.50. Those were days when commodities were not taken in exchange for goods; for instance, Mr. Christian at this time took some eggs to town and could not get even one cent per dozen, the merchants preferring to credit him for pins and matches, than take eggs in exchange. His family at that time consisted of a wife and one child. They could not use the eggs, and his neighbors were likewise supplied so he threw them away. Mr. Christian is a native of St. Joseph county, Indiana, born in 1845, and has been a farmer and stockman all his life. His father is Asa D. Christian and lives on the old homestead in the "Hoosier" state at the age of eighty-one years. The Christian ancestors were from Germany and set- tled in the Dutch settlement of Pennsylvania in a very early day. When Asa D. Christian was twelve years of age he emigrated westward with his parents, and ■ barefooted drove and ox team into the wilderness of Indiana where they settled in the uninhabited timber region of that state. His mother was Almira Fisher. Her ancesters were of Irish origin and among the first settlers of Cincinnati, Ohio, when the Indians were numerous and when they found it necessary to resorfto all sorts of devices to protect them- selves against the pilfering, begging tribes that roamed the primitive forests. They split logs in half and stored their provisions in the hollowed interior, laid the two halves together, heaped brush and leaves over it, thus conceal- ing their meat and other articles of food, for when the Indians came they helped themselves to what ever they found in the way of eatables. Upon one occasion their attention was attracted toward a bright, shining new hatchet that had beai given Mr. Christian's grandfather, who was about twelve years of age. One of the Indians looked longingly at the little ax for a moment and then appropriating the coveted \\eapon walked unceremoniously away into the forest. A moment later the owner of the hatchet came in and when he learned what had taken place, quietly, but with determined look lifted a loaded rifle from the wall and deliberately followed intent on revenge. When but a short distance from their cabin he heard a pounding and suspecting the savage was trying the virtues of his new weapon, the boy slowly and quietly crept through the bushes, while with each succeeding stroke of the hatchet his blood grew hotter, and onward he went until rewarded by a glimpse of the savage who was astride of a log cracking nuts with the utmost satisfac- tion. The lad cautiously gained a large log at safe gunshot distance and drew a bead on his unsuspecting victim who was alone, having separated from his comrades. He would aim and then lower his gun debating if he should empty the contents into the red skin or spare his worthless life and while thus soliloquizing, the Indian cracked another nut and with such in- nate satisfaction that the youth was maddened beyond control, each walnut inciting renewed anger and finally drew down on the sights of the gun, he knew well how to use although a mere boy, and in another instant the In- dian was sent to the "happy hunting ground." The victor then proceeded to gather in his spoils, secured his hatchet and upon returning to the cabin his mother who had heard the report of his rifle inquired what he had done. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 515 His father at once instigated a search and finding the body, immediately secreted the victim, for had the tribe discovered one of their number had been thus dealt with would have wreaked a terrible vengeance and in all probability have massacred the whole family. Mr. Christian's mother who died about sixteen years ago was the mother of thirteen children, eleven of whom are living. Mr. Christian is the eldest child. Edward C, a stock dealer in Scandia, is a brother, and Robert, a farmer of Elk township. Mrs. Frank Rupe and Mrs. Milton Garwood are sisters; the other members of the family are near the old homestead in Indiana. Mr. Christian was married in 1871, to Laura Fitch, of Montpelier, Vermont, who died November 4, 1874, leaving two sons, Arthur, the eldest child is a resident of Holton, Kansas, and Valentine who farms with his father. Mr. Christian married his second wife, Jeanette Parker, in 1876. To this union seven children have been born, viz : Winifield and Clarence, the two eldest, are young men aged twenty-three and twenty-one years. Al- mira, the eldest daughter at the recfuest of her grandfather was named for her maternal grandmother. The other children are, Francis, John, Eva and Imo. Mr. Christian's farm consists of one hundred and sixty acres of land all under cultivation. He keeps a herd of finely bred Red-Poled cattle and among them are several pure blooded pedigreed animals. He has also dealt extensively in fine bred hogs of the Poland China breed, and during corn years raises and feeds from one hundred to one hundred and fiftj^ head. Mrs. Christian has been very successful in poultry, raising from five to eight hun- dred in a season. She has tried various breeds but finds the Plymouth Rock the best farmer's bird and general purpose fowl. In the spring of 1902, she set sixty-six hens and sold nearly t^\■o thousand eggs for hatching, often gathering from the nests twelve dozen per day, which furnished many short orders. Politically Mr. Christian is a Republican but not a radical politician. He is a well informed man, received a good common school education and having been a great reader has acquired a store of useful knowledge. He is a public spirited man and a most excellent citizen. REVEREND JOHN BOGGS. The late Reverend John Boggs was one of the most influential and best known men in the vicinity of Clyde. A learned and scholarly man whose brain was a veritable store house of knowledge. This reverend gentleman was born in the Baptist parsonage in the village of Hopewell, New Jersey, May 12, 1810. The town of his nativity is situated in the beautiful and fer- tile Hopewell Valley which is noted for its fine fruits and vegetables and celebrated for being the seat of Rugers College, Nassua Hall, Princeton Theological Seminary; and also renowned for the Revolutionary battles of Princeton, Trenton and Bond Rock. 5i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Elder Boggs' father and grandfather both bore the name of John and were Baptist ministers. His grandfather was born in East Nottingham, England April 9, 1741, and was a captain in the Revolutionary war. In his earlier life he \\as a Presbyterian minister but in 1771 he embraced the Bap- tist sentiments and in 1781 was ordained a minister of that faith at Welsh Tract, Delaware, where he died of paralysis in 1802; his wife who was Han- nah Furness before her marriage was born in 1737 and died January 31, 1788. John B., the second, and father of our subject as born at Welsh Tract, Delaware, January 20, 1770. P'or their son Joseph the fond parents had mapped out the career of a clergyman, "but John," they said, "was cut out for a farmer;" but Joseph became a lawyer and John developed into both an excellent farmer and a gifted dispenser of the gospel. Elder Boggs' paternal grandmother was Eliza Hopkins, the only child of an English Quaker family whose parents, Isaac arid Margaret Hopkins, resided in Bur- lington county. New Jersey, from the time they came to America until their deaths, which took place during Jier childhood, leaving their daughter in the hands of an unworthy uncle who defrauded her of considerable property. Charles Hopkins who was a pastor of a New York City Baptist church for many years was a cousin of Elder Boggs twice removed. W. C. Cooper, of Philadelphia, a brother of Commodore Porter, formerly of the United States navy, married Fannie Hopkins, a cousin of the same removal. Isaac Hopkins, a brother of Fannie Hopkins, was the father of seventeen children including three pairs of twins. Elder Boggs was three times married. His third wife was Mary Hunt; their two daughters, Elizabeth and Mary Jane established and were proprietors of the .Ladies' Seminary at Hopewell, New Jersey, where their father was pastor for. nearly forty years. Elder Boggs' mother was Hannah Dewess. Her father's house, Colonel Dewess, was the home of the Baptist ministers. She was distinguished for her many personal charms and amiability. She died May 5, 1827, of paralysis at the Baptist parsonage in Hopewell. They were the parents of six children, four living to maturity and rearing families. Elder Boggs served as chaplain of the one hundred and eighteenth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and from that period on labored in his "Master's vine- yard" until his advanced years would no longer permit; and when his work was finished he undoubtedly received the welcome plaudit, "well done thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joys of thy Lord." Had El- der Boggs lived until the following September, the sixty-seventh anniversary of their marriage would have been celebrated. His aged wife survives him at the age of ninety-one years, but the sands of her life are almost run and a few years at the best can but elapse ere she will ha^'e gone to join her com- panion of more than three score years. Elder Boggs was an extensive traveler, also a voluminous writer, and contributed many articles to ihe press, many of them of acknowledged worth. In 1888, he made an extended missionary trip through Nevada, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 5 '7 Wyoming, California, Oregon, Washington Territory and Colorado. He was loyal to Kansas and upon his return from his tour vigorously asserted, "there was no place like his cottage home in Kansas." Although Elder Boggs' farm is situated just over the line in Washing-ton, his labors were al- most exclusively in Cloud count)'*. Several years prior to his demise he had changed his religion to the Christian faith and established the Clyde congre- gation at the Boggs school house with the understanding that when a church was erected in Clyde the society would be transferred to that point, and in. ac- cordance with his request this was done. Mrs. Boggs lives with her daughter, Mrs. Lottie Hakes at the old home. "Tri Gable Cottage," as it is called is one of the most desirable homes in the vicinity, nestled in the midst of a perfect bower of trees and flowering shrubs that denote much care from the hands of its owners; a fine apple orchard that yielded two hundred bushels the present year. The proceeds of the sales of their crop of early cherries this year exceeded $30. The angel of death never having visited their family. Elder and Mrs. Boggs have three children, all of whom are useful, honest, and upright citizens. JOHN NEWTON BOGGS. J. N. Boggs the subject of this sketch is a son of the noted clergyman. Reverend John Boggs, \^'hose history is given in detail in the preceeding sketch. He was born in New Jersey in the year 1832, was reared on a farm in Hamilton county, Ohio, and moved to Bartholomew county, Indiana, but later returned to Ohio. It is a well established fact that ministers are much like flocks of birds migrating from one place to another, never remaining any . length of time in one location. Mr. Boggs received but a meager education in the country schools owing to his family moving to Bartholomew county in advance of even subscription schools. The scholars of today can never realize that in olden times children walked miles over fields to some small building answering the double purpose of church and school house.. Many of those scholars are today holding some of the greatest and loftiest positions that can be accorded to men and women. Mr. Boggs was married in the year 1854, in Bartholomew county to Elizabeth A. Low and they began their first housekeeping in a very primi- tive way, taking their wedding journey in a "prairie schooner" enroute to Appanoose county, Iowa, and consequently were for many years a little in advance of the towns and cities of the plains. Wayne county, Iowa, ad- joined Appanoose and they made their home in the two counties until the spring of 1876, when they were attracted by stories of homes to be gotten by simply selecting one of their choice — the cost of the land office papers was the only price. In company with their seven children born in Iowa they came to Kansas and settled in Elk township. Mr. Boggs purchased the re- linquishment of David Brosseau, where a home had been started and a few acres of sod had been broken, homesteaded the land and bought the Antoine 31 5i8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Brosseau farm adjoining, thus owning a half section of land which he has since divided with his children and is practically retired from farming. Mr. Boggs served in company ID, sixteenth Iowa infantry, and although he has been practically disabled ever since he has never drawn a pension. Mrs. Boggs was called from her earthly home leaving seven children, viz: Aquilla, deceased in 1881 at the age of twenty-six years, unmarried. Free- man, an electric street car conductor at Houston, Texas. Joseph, a carpen- ter who resides in California. Allen, a farmer of Elk township. Kate, wife of A. M. Shriver, a fanner of Elk township. Joshua, owns a fruit ranch in California. Blanche is her father's house-keeper. Pinkney died in Iowa. Mr. Boggs had the misfortune to lose a good frame residence by fire in 1893, which was replaced in the autumn of that year by a six-room dwelling which narrowly escaped the same fate by a stroke of lightning in October, 1902. Miss Boggs raises a great number of chickens, hatching from two to three hundred annually, which is a profitable investment of one's labor and care for the little broods of downy puff balls. She is a devoted daughter, bestowing much of her time to the care of her father, brightening his declin- ing years, smoothing the tangles from his path. Politically, Mr. Boggs is a Republican. His family are members of the Christian church and active workers. While on a visit to , Bartholomew county, Indiana in 1857 Mr. Boggs connected himself with the Baptist church and upon his return to Wayne county, Iowa, was one of seven, five females and two males, who or- ganized a Baptist congregation in a private residence. Mr. Boggs was elected clerk and served in that capacity until uniting with the Christian church several years later. REVEREND LOUIS MOLLIER. To no man is more credit due than to the Reverend Louis Mollier, of St. Joseph, Cloud county, whose long life has been one of devotion to the best interests of his church and the people of his faith which is that of a Catholic. Reverend Louis Mollier was born in the diocese of Chambery, Savpie, France, tlje 29th of October, 1846. He came to Kansas in 1869 and settled in Topeka with the avowed purpose of devoting his life to church Avork. Through the influence of Bishop John B. Meige, who came first to America from Savoie, Father Mollier's birthplace, where they had been friends and brothers of their church, Father Mollier entered the seminary at Topeka and in April, 1873, was ordained a priest at the age of twenty-five years and immediately afterward was sent to St. Joseph by the Right Rever- end Bishop Fink, of the diocese of Leavenworth, Kansas; therefore Father Mollier bears the honor and fame of being the pioneer priest of northwestern Kansas. The first services were held at the school house, consultors were elected and active work begun. Father Mollier secured a room of Eli Lanoue until the parish was able to build a parsonage wherein to make his home, which was done in 1874. The missions extended from Washington to the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 519 Colorado line and from Clay Center and Glasco to the Nebraska line. His labors were not required any further west than Norton county, owing to the scarcity of inhabitants, but the field was a large one and the Holy Father traveled long distances, covering many miles on horseback over road- less, bleak and uninhabited prairies, minus landmarks of any description. The villages dotted along the route were Clyde, Concordia, Elm Creek, Delphos, Clay Center, Straw- berry and Parsons Creeks, Palmer, Greenleaf, Beloit, Lawrenceburg, Cavvker City, Jewell Ciy, Stockton and other places, making his start from St. Joseph. In many of these places his spiritual guidance was needed, and Father Mollier has been known on several occasions to travel a distance of one hundred and twen- ty miles to give church consolation to sick and dying persons. At the time Father Mollier came to western Kansas, Clyde was a very small vil- lage and Concordia numbered a pop- tilation of about three hundred. At that period the land office was the central attraction. Father Mollier commenced the first church edifice at Elm Creek in 1874, which has recently been taken down. Mass was said at St. Joseph in a small school house until a church could be erected, and in this small edifice the good seeds were sown to ripen into bountiful harvests. Father Mollier began and had the St. Joseph and Concordia churches under course of con- struction at the same time. The church at St. Joseph was erected at an expense of about ten thousand dollars and four thousand dollars for the edi- fice at Concordia. The money was obtained through his efforts, the parishioners cheerfully giving for the privilege of a place of worship to hold the increasing population. A part of the parsonage was built in 1875 ^^^ in 1885 an upright addition to the building was erected, which is now a com- modious and convenient residence. The dimensions of the St. Joseph church are forty by one hundred feet, a fine building of which the town is justly proud. In 1880 Father Mollier built the Jamestown church and has erected mission churches at Greenleaf, Palmer, Clyde, Concordia and Clay Center. At the same time lots were secured at Beloit and Cawker City and building material put on the ground. The first school at St. Joseph was organized as district No. 35. The settle- Reverend Father Mollier of St. Joseph, Kansas. S20 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ment is made up from the French people who first located in Kankakee, Illi- nois, which is a French speaking town. A few families emigrated to Kansas, others followed and through this medium, in turn, others came, thus making almost a branch of Kankakee. There is but one Protestant family in the entire parish. In the year 1885, a new school building was constructed, two stories high, containing four rooms. At the present time three teachers are busily employed, -bvit as the season advances a fourth one is added. Sister Euphra- sia, Sister Dorothy, and Sister Anthony are the present teachers. These kind, gentle, patient Sisters are of the St. Joseph order of Concordia. Sister Euphra- sia teaches the French language, as many descendants of the French fami- lies are English speaking. The en- rollment of the academy in 1902 was one hundred and thirteen, and the previous year numbered one hundred and seventy-five pupils. The school is a parochial one and the Sisters are the only teachers employed. The parish consists of one hundred and sixty families and the population is nine hundred and eleven. The parish extends three miles north, four to the west, eight to the south and six miles east. Father Mollier could never dream of or dare hope to see a bishop in charge and at the head of the diocese at Concordia, so few families, number- The Parochial School Building. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 521 ing only about twenty when his labors began, and a portion of them belonged to Jamestown, but the increase can scarcely be numbered. In the early days there were but a few Catholics in Clyde and they went to St. Joseph to attend services. The church grounds contain ten acres donated by John B. Car- dinal, who made an exchange with William Berland for the cemetery grounds in order that it might be adjacent to the church. St. Joseph is situated six miles south of Clyde, surrounded by fine farms, showing the march of improvement time has made. The church, school and additional buildings can be seen for miles. Father Mollier still li-\'es at St. Joseph, where he has devoted so many years to the education of children and the salvation of souls. When his work is ended and he lays down his worldly cross, the crown that awaits him will have been faithfully earned, for this good father has given a whole lifetime, unselfishly to the good and holy cause of the church and the beautiful teachings of Christ — to follow in his footsteps. Father Mollier has faithfully followed his com- mand. SOLOMON VALLEY. The first permanent settlers in the Solomon valley in the vicinity where Giasco is now situated were John Hillhotise, Robert Smith and his father-in- law, John Hendershot, the latter now living just across the line in Ottawa county. John Hillhouse is dead (see sketch) ; the Hendershots and Robert Smith still live on their homesteads. They settled in the Solomon valley in 1865. The following April H. H. Spaulding and U. D. Teasley, settled in the same locality, both of whom are deceased, but their families are num- bered among the useful citizens of that community. In the summer of 1866 the Dalrymples, H. H. and I. N., and L. W. Jones were added to the settlement. I. N. Dalrymple lives on his old home- stead ; H. H. has gone to his "eternal home." H. C. Snyder, E. J. Calhoun and J. A. Potts came in November of that year. There was an Indian village of Pawnees, a hunting party quite friendly to the whites who held in their possession a full stock of arms and amunition — a wholesome dread to the wild Indian. The village was located on the main river at a point just east of the north mouth of First creek and about one mile from Giasco. In early years this was a favorite camping place for wandering tribes and many times the trappers would gather around the camp- fire and smoke the "pipe of peace," but never without their fire arms and both eyes open. The settlers who came prior to 1868 w^ere mostly driven back by the Indian uprisings. The year 1867 was noted for disasters and evil omen, Indian massacres, drouth, etc. At this time the settlement was confined along the streams. The summer months were noted for drouth and hot winds. Near the last day of June it was hot, hot as it only can be in Kan- sas during the hot wind and drouth season; not a particle of air stirred, nor a cloud in the sky, when from a point nearly overhead came the loudest clap of thunder which was heard by the settlers from the Republican to the Saline, from the forks at Waconda to Solomon City; not a cloud was visi- ble and no rain fell. As the traveler wends his way up the Republican river valley he is quite ready to believe he has found Utopia, the land of his dreams. His soul rejoices at the marvelous beauty of this broad valley, and feels that he HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 523 has found the fairest country under the sun. Later, perhaps, he finds his way to the Solomon valley, where another Arcadia, just as rich in material resources and beauty greet the eye and in justice to both of these charming valleys it is but fair to say that each have their particular points of excel- lence and surpass the power of pen to describe. The Solomon valley is surrounded by an elevation of plateaus and fur- ther back a more hilly region. The pure air, and water, genial and salubri- ous atmosphere produces a sense of rest and restoration. There is a feel- ing of content among the people of the Solomon valley seldom seen in any country and there is something restfu.l in coming in contact with them. The standard of intelligence is above the average. The toils and hardships have all passed away, and they are permitted to spend their days under the trees they have planted and look with pleas- ure over the broad acres of waving grain and herds of cattle, and as they watch them increase, with each succeeding year, become unmindful of the unhappy past and are lost in the harmony and content of "Home, Sweet Home." The people of the Solomon are not of the migrating class, but have built permanent homes surrounded by flowering slirubs, grass covered lawns and groves of trees, in whose bowers the birds build their nests and sing in the branches; here their children have been born and grown to manhood and womanhood to become successors to the homestead. The old ranks are thin- ning out, but the foundations laid, and solid walls reared by these pioneers; the real permanent homes that will pass from them to their children, and from generation to generation, is what gave strength and dignity to this great commonwealth. GLASCO. In the southwest comer of the county, midway between the towns of Beloit and Minneapolis, nestled in one of the most fertile spots of the Solo- mon valley, is the little city of Glasco. The town was first known and platted as "Dell Ray." Its founders were H. H. Spaulding, J. M. Copeland, Cap- tain H. C. Snyder, Captain J. A. Potts and A. H. Spaulding, in the summer of '1870. The town is situated in Solomon township, about one-half mile east of Fisher creek, and about the same distance south of the Solomon river. The first postmaster was Captain H. C. Snyder. The postoffice was estab- lished in 1869, but when Glasco sprung into existence, Isaac Biggs opened a store and was appointed postmaster, Captain Snyder resigning. The name Glasco was then adopted and retained by the Solomon Branch Railway as the name of their station at that point. The little store building erected by Isaac Biggs in 1871 is still standing and is looked upon as the only remain- ing relic of pioneer days in their town. After the usual fights incident to such affairs, the branch of the Union Pacific Railway reached Glasco in 1878 and this was practically the begin- 524 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ning of the general growth of the town and from that date it became an assurance. Glasco has superior facihties for business. They have direct communication east and west and thus find a ready market for their produce. The bridges over the Solomon in this vicinity are among the best and most substantial structures in the county. They were, like the railroad, obtained after a series of contentions. There were two propositions before the people prior to the building of the bridge that spans the river one .and one-lialf miles from town, one for Simpson and the other for Glasco. The former was voted down, a doubtful majority, which necessitated being 1884. The bridge one mile south of the city was Street View in Glasco. m the latter carried by settled in the courts built in 1899.- As the various engravings demon- ■strate, Glasco has 5ome of the best busi- ness houses in the county, and we think it would be safe to assert there is not a ■city of its size in the ■state that excels. J'hey are generally structures of massive stone, handsomely dressed, of modern architecture and most of them two stories in height. The stranger visiting Glasco invariably ex- presses surprise at the character and so- lidity of these buildings. The fine R. G. Bracken's furniture stock Bridge Over the Solomon at Glasco. Stone building now occupied by was erected by M. L. Hare in HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 525 1890, at a cost of three thousand dollars. It is of native sand- stone and is twenty-four by eighty-four feet in the clear, with a basement of the same dimensions. The second floor is used as a lodge room. The first building of any importance erected in Glasco was the Bigg's block, in 1880. — a stone structure twenty-four by ninety feet, one story, with a baseineni. The Glasco State Bank building is a handsome stone structure, with modern bank fixtures. The Davidson's business block of massive stone and plate glass front, would attract attention in a city many times larger than Glasco. The walks of stone pavement extend over all parts of the town, and the homes are made attractive with beautiful trees, flowering shrubs and well-tended lavrns. The Oakes House is one of the best hotel buildings in the country, and few cities of three thousand population can produce as handsome a struc- ture. Glasco is also favored with a most desirable private boarding house, conducted by Mrs. Sarah J. Luckinbill, who has been a resident of the Solo- mon valley country since 1880. Her house is a model of neatness and her table would please the most fastidious. GLASCO NEWSPAPERS. The pioneer paper of Glasco was the Glasco Banner, founded by V. C. Post, in February, 1880, but was short lived, as it was discontinued the fol- lowing loth of July. The second paper was the Glasco Tribune, published by J. W. Burroughs, from 1881 to 1882. The Glasco Sun was established by Bond & Fisher. The first issue was made January 20, 1883. August 4, 1883, it passed into the hands of Ferd Prince, formerly associate editor of the Cloud County Critic, a Concordia paper. Mr. Prince sold his interest to Miss Kate Plubbard in January, 1889. In 1893 George Wright assumed control and sold to Ferd Prince in October, 1899. The paper reverted back to Mr. Wright, its present owner, in the spring of 1902. There was an in- terim of short duration between the time of Miss Hubbard's control and that of Mr. Wright in 1893, when the Sun was in charge of E. M. Throckmorton and L. E. Frankforther, respectively . POSTOFFICE ESTABIJSHED. In the autumn of 1869 Senator Ross came to the Solomon valley from Washington, District Columbia, and established a postoffice, with Captain Snyder as postmaster, and a mail route as far as Beloit. Isaac Biggs, the next postmaster, was removed upon the petition of the people, and A. Ott was appointed and held the position until the first election of Mr. Cleveland to office, when Noah Welch was designated official in charge and served four years. He was succeeded by M. L. Hare, under President Harrison's admin- istration. Owen Day was the appointee during Cleveland's second reign. William A. Hillhouse was appointed by President McKinley during his first term of the presidency and is the present incimibent. 526 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Glasco has an efficient fire company, which was organized under Hon- orable L. E. Davidson's administration as mayor of the city, at a cost of $700. A large proportion of the people of the Glasco vicinity have experi- enced the fugged paths of a new country with its ups and downs, sunshine and cloud, who are now almost unreservedly in the possession of landed estates that insure them a future of tranquility and peace. Glasco is charm- ingly situated on the Solomon river. For miles in either direction it is sur- rounded by scores of the best and most highly cultivated farms in the county, by one of the finest stock raising and grain growing countries on the con- tinent and by one of the fairest and most fertile valleys the sun as the earth revolves, has ever looked upon. Nestled in one of "nature's dearest dimples" and viewed from the uplands which encompass the little city of Glasco with its five hundred inhabitants, a smgular air of peace is suggested. Her people are broad and generous, and a liberal spirit prevails. They support good schools, good churches, and give encouragement to every good and useful enterprise within their midst. HISTORY OF THE GLA.SCO SCHOOLS. The first school taught in Glasco held forth in a little log house provided for that purpose. It was situated' a short distance west and north of the pres- ent town site. Here in the summer of 1868 the heroic Jennie Paxton taught the first school in the township, the remembrance of which will ever be in- scribed in the mernory of the patrons and scholars, especially will there be a distinct retention of the memorable last day of school which closed August 13, 1868. On that event during the afternoon the Indians made their first raid in that part of the Solomon valley as told. Here in this modest cabin, with its dirt floor and sod roof, the settlement also congregated for worship and it is quite apropos of the subject to relate an amusing occurrence that transpired at one of their weekly prayer meetings. The offering of a good Methodist sister, who was called upon to pray, became more and more ani- mated until her shouting aroused the emotions of a little dog that chanced to be in the audience, whereupon he hurriedly took a position directly behind her, and the more earnestly the petitioner cried out, the more vehemently the canine clamored for supremacy, until the assembly gathered there, almost lost their decorum. Neither of the characters in this peculiar proceeding revealed any tendency to desist until the petitioner had finished her supplica- tion and arose from her humble position, when with distinctive canine qual- ities "Fido" gracefully withdrew and retired to his former place under the bench, with a countenance which exhibited inward satisfaction. Early in the seventies a stone building of crude masonry was erected. For an interval of several years the author could not obtain an accurate account of the school s proceedings, but in 1879 Ed: Hostetler was installed as principal, and the same year the building was partitioned to accommodate two grades in the growing community. Mrs. Emma (Haddock) Biggs recalls having been HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 527 reprimanded for '■peeping" through the cracks of the board wall, which were about an inch wide. The pupils of grade two had to file through the first, to gain an entrance to the rear room. The enrollment increased until in 1880 it was necessary to rent a down town store room for the primary dqaartment. Several among the teachers who ha^^e been employed in the Glasco schools have later distinguished themselves, and the services of some of the best talent in the country have been engaged there. Tully Scott and his sister had charge of the school work in the spring- time of 1881. In 1882-3 the primary grade was held in the school building and the higher grades were quar- tered in the Christian church, with John Stackhouse, principal and Miss Emma Haddock (now Mrs. Biggs), assistant. In 1883-4 the present school building, a two-story " frame structure, was erect- ed. They had razed the old building to the ground and no session was held that year except in June, July and August, in the new house, with Noah Welch, princi- cipal ; Jessie Oatman, In the autumn a Mr assistants. Glasco Public School Building. intermediate, and Emma Haddock, primary. Mitchell was appointed principal, with the same Mrs. Mary Brierley was engaged to assume the principalship the first of the new year, Mr. Mitchell having resigned. The school had become somewhat demoralized, for instance the first morning after Mrs. Brierley's labors begun there were fifteen tardy students, some of them not arriving until intermission. She at once devised methods to correct this tendency. As an inducement she set aside twenty-five dollars to be distributed through all the rooms to those who were neither absent nor tardy. At the end of the year the teachers reported twenty-eight winners, consequently she added three dollars to the standing fund and gave them one dollar each. Little Adah Biggs was neither absent nor tardy for three whole school years. In 1885-6 there were primary, intermediate and grammar grades. The follow- ing year introduced a new teacher and a new department. The grades below the high school have remained the same. At the end of Mrs. Brierley's work for that period, the spring of 1884, the first commencement was inaugurated, 528 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. six girls graduating from the common school course — Susie Jones, Lily Spaulding, Cora Frankforther, Inez Burnett, Martha Bond and Ota Studt. Mr. Watson was employed as principal in 1887, and under his jurisdic- tion planted trees and celebrated their first Arbor day. However, they did not flourish, and most of the tiny trees planted on this event died. J. R. McCollom was in charge from 1889 to 1890, and the following year, W. S. Simpson was succeeded by F. J. Emmick as principal, who succeeded himself the ensuing year. Mr. Emmick was one of the most proficient teachers Glasco ever had. In 1894 Mrs. Brierley was elected to replace Mr. Emmick, \vho resigned, and much to the credit of the retiring principal she reports the pupils received from Mr. Emmick as being superior to any that had ever been transferred to her, with the exception of those from Mrs. Belle V. Huston's room in Concordia, who were ec[ually as well trained. The high school work began with this period, a class of seven boys and twelve girls. Mrs. Brierley was elected to the office of county superintendent and resigned her position in the school to assume the duties of her office. She was re-elected the fol- lo^ving year and made one of the most efficient officers Cloud county has ever had in that capacity. The principalship changed rapidly for a few months. Mrs. Brierley was succeeded by J. M. Pierralt, and he by Ed. Hostetler, who resigned to accept a position elsewhere. The place was then filled by L. M. Duvall for six months. In September, 1896, when Guy H. Bernard entered the Glasco schools, as teacher in the grammar grade, there were ten grades, and the following year the high school was introduced and he became principal, with Miss V. E. Butler in the grammer grade, Miss Ada Palmer, intermediate, and Mrs. Haddock, primary. During the five years Mr. Bernard was asso- ciated with the Glasco schools many important changes took place. The stoves were changed to furnace heat and many appliances and equipments added. Mrs. Haddock is deserving of special mention for her efforts in col- lecting funds by entertainments, the receipts of which were applied toward the purchase of the organ. Miss Helen Morton succeeded to Mr. Bernard's position when he resigned to accept a position in the Glasco State Bank. In 1900-01 C. B. Taylor was principal, followed by Mr. Dean, who died suddenly in the winter of 1903. Mr. Duvall, who was formerly associated with the Glasco schools and faA'orably known in edu- cational work in Clyde, is the present principal. Glasco has spent consid- erable money in lecture courses and employs such excellent talent as Dr. Ouayle, who first appeared there in 1898, Dr. James Hedley, Dr. Copeland, Dr. McCleary, Dr. McGirk and Dr. DeWitt Miller. They spend from two hundred and fifty dollars to three hundred dollars annually for this literary feast. This enterprise was instituted by the high school to obtain funds for the purchase of books for their library. At the annual meeting of the board in 1893 Dr. Courtney was elected treasurer, and he was very enthusiastic in the matter of tree culture, and the charming avenue of trees that grace the pavement in the front of the school HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 529 grounds is the result of his interest. Mr. Emmick also deserves credit, for he and his pupils nurtured and cared for them while young and tender. For not getting "panicky" and reducing the teachers' wages during the memorable hard years, Glasco stood almost as a unit. They averaged one dollar more than any school in the county, not excepting Concordia. There has been no prejiJdice shown against employing female principals in Glasco, and seemingly give no preference. The record made by Miss Delle Colwell is perhaps the most extraordinary in the county. In the eight years she was a pupil in the Glasco schools she missed but two days. For a period of five years she was neither absent nor tardy, and much of the time drove to and from her home in the country, a distance of five miles. Miss Colwell gradu- ated in 1 90 1 with the highest honors in her class. The educational advan- tages of Glasco have been maintained in a superior degree, and the facili- ties, for the youth acquiring knowledge and mental training, will find no better discipline in the public schools of the county. HISTORY OF THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GLASCO. Reverend Higgen preached the first sermon delivered by a minister of the Presbyterian denomination in Glasco, in the old log school house (with a dirt covering) in the summer of 1871. Reverend "Father" Bracken held services in the little village school house in the early winter of 1871, but the congregation was not organized until in June, 1872. The number of mem- bers was twelve. Reverend Bracken was assisted in the organization of the church by Reverend Timothy Hill, D. D. The first ruling elders were Thomas Dumars and John M. Gray, whose son, George F. Gray, is one of the present elders. "Father" Bracken, as he was familiarly known, was a very strong and able preacher, much beloved by his congregation, friends, and people every- where. He was pastor from the organization until 1884. The present church was built during his pastorate. Of the original members five are living, viz : Mr. and Mrs. H. P. Bracken, of Wallace, Kansas ; George F. Gray, of Boulder, Colorado; Mrs. Amelia Blake and R. M. Gray, of Glasco, whose letters remain in the church. In 1878 they called a congregational meeting to discuss the building of a church, with the result of a charter, and five trustees were elected. Times were hard and nothing further was done until May 3, 1879, when a more permanent organization was effected, and it was decided to build the present house of worship. On May 8, 1879, the first ground was broken by R. M. Gray. Mrs. Mary M. Palmer said she was going to be the first woman inside the founda- tion, and claims that distinction. On the loth and nth of August, 1879, lumber was placed on the ground and the work proceeded at once, and as rapidly as the means could be secured. The church was finished at a cost of twenty-two hundred dollars and dedicated early in June, 1880. The ded- icatory sermon was delivered by Reverend W. A. Simkins, of Salina, Kan- 530 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sas. Reverend Pinkerton, D. D., offered the dedicatory prayer. The church began free o£ debt. The Presbyterian church being- the first edifice, all the other denominations were made welcome and worshipped there. In the autumn of 1884 Reverend Bracken retired on account of failing health and Reverend A. Glendenning succeeded him. "Father" Bracken is remembered as a good shepherd and gathered into the fold seventy-one mem- bers. He died a few years later, amid the closing scenes of his labors. Succeeding Mr. Glendenning Reverend J. C. Hench occupied the pulpit a short time in 1887, then followed Reverends J. A. Stayt, J. W. Funk, George McKay and elder J. H. Course, all of whom were licentiates but not or- dained. Since June i, 1897, the church has been supplied by Benjamin F. McMillan. The present membership is seventy-two, twenty of them received under the present pastorate. The first chorister of this congregation was Robert G. Bracken, fol- lowed by Mrs. Maggie Hubbard, Reed P. Bracken, Mrs. C. M. White, Annie Olmstead, Mrs. Maud Haynes, Edgar Pratt and Miss Pamelia Bul- lock. The first child baptized was Theodore Bracken, son of Isaac Bracken. The entire membership received intO' the church is one hundred and fifty-nine. The first trustees were H. H. Spaulding, John Hillhouse, W. H. Wright, Charles Sheffield and R. M. Gray. The present trustees are Mrs. Mary Bul- lock, Mrs. Hannah Butler, Mrs. Andy Franks, Mr. Best and Milton Gray. The Presbyterian congregatioii have a Sabbath school with an average at- tendance of fifty-eight. Mr. Best has been superintendent for the past year; an active and earnest worker. THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF GLASCO. The first sermon in the Solomon valley was delivered by a Methodist minister (the name could not be obtained), who called at Captain Potts' dugout. In the course of the conversation it was discovered he was a min- ister of the gospel, and Captain Potts requested him to preach a sermon. The settlers were not very numerous and were all notified by a messenger on horseback. This was before the founding of Glasco and the meeting was held under a native Cottonwood tree. The limbs that had been broken off by the wind served for seats; the audience numbered less than one dozen. Reverend Chilson was the first man sent to minister to the people and later Reverend Jeffery was sent by the ' Methodist Episcopal conference to establish a church. On May i, 1870, he effected an organization with six members. Reverend Jeft'ery was succeeded by Reverend Phillips, after a term of two years. Since then the oulpit has been supplied as follows : Rev- erends Winder, Tolman, Jones, D. D. Campbell, W. L. Cannon, A. Stack- house, S. L. Seamons, J. W. Ryan, B. F. Rhodes, N. A. Walker, E. H. Bailiff, W. S. Lucas, Sheldon, J. W. Edgar, E. McNair, J. H. Cune, and the present minister. Reverend James Flowers. The first Methodist Episcopal church edifice was built in 1884, under HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 531 the jurisdiction of Reverend S. L. Seamons. Prior to the building of this house they held their meetings in the old stone school house, until the build- ing of the Presbyterian church, where they worshipped for a year or more. The Methodist Episcopal church was erected at a cost of twenty-five thou- sand dollars. It was burned in the fire of April 11, 1890. On May 17, 1890, the trustees called a meeting to effect the building of a church. They had an insurance of nine hundred and sixty dollars, and adding to this subscriptions by the congregation and people of the town and vicinity they built a church valued at two thousand dollars. Several successful revivals have been held. Reverend Flowers began his labors in the Glasco Methodist Episcopal church in April, 1898. He is an ardent temperance lecturer and is very successful as a revivalist; most of his labors have been in the Concordia district: He has been phenomally successful in building churches. Was instrumental in the building of a house of worship on his first charge and has raised funds, or built a church on every charge except the present one. The first trustees consisted of Enoch Williamson, Mr. Bond, A. Newell, Abbott A. Stackhouse and N. Harper. Mr. Williamson has been president of the board since its organization. The church has a membership of eighty- five, a Sunday school with an average attendance of seventy-five and an en- rollment of one hundred and twenty-fi\'e. Noah Harper is the superintend- ent, which place he has held for many years. Previous to the burning of the church the Salvation Army held a meeting in Glasco and many conversions were made. CATHOLIC CHURCH OF GLASCO. For three years the Catholics held services at the various homes of Cath- olic families in the vicinity of Glasco. In 1878 a church was erected by gen- eral subscription at a cost of about eight hundred dollars, much of the work having been done by members. Previously the parish was a part of Delphos, one priest doing the work for both parishes, having his seat of residence at Delphos, that being the most central point among his other missions. The first priest was Father Frederick, who came to Glasco from Beloit and before a residence was established at Delphos. The church was built under his supervision and the congregation consisted of about twenty families. The church seats about one hundred and is getting too small for the congregation. The building of a much larger edifice will likely be consummated the com- ing year, 1902. Next to Father Frederick follows Father Whidoff, a Ger- man priest. Father Regan, now of Abilene, Father Carribeauld, and Father Hoeller. The present priest in charge is Father Horgan. Father Regan had charge of the parish about five years. Sei'vices are held the third Sunday of every month ; when 'five Sundays occur in a month they have special services, and occasional intervening mass. The Catholic cemetery consists of three acres of ground adjoining the Protestant cemetery, on the east. 532 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. LUTHERAN CHURCH OF GLASCO. The Lutheran church, the second church organized in the Httle city of Glasco, was established in 1883, by Reverend Seidel, at that time resident pastor of the Lutheran church at Lindsay, Ottawa county, Kansas. They worshipped in various homes and in the old stone school house until the erection of the Presbyterian church, where they met for Christian service for several years. In 1893 they erected a handsome frame edifice on Main street, at a cost of three thousand dollars ; dimensions, thirty by fifty feet. Reverend Seidel continued in charge about four years and was succeeded by Reverend John Bright, with residence at Abilene, who was followed a year later by Reverend Bond, who labored in the best interests of this congrega- tion for six years and was its first resident pastor. He was a man of rare intellect and reared for the ministry. Unfortunately, loss of hearing rend- ered him unable to continue his labors and he was succeeded by Reverend Trefz, under whose pastorate the church was built. His residence was Beloit, preach- ing for the Glasco congregation every two and three weeks for several years. Rever- end J. Paetznick occupied the pulpit and be- came their resident minister for one year. E. F A. Hantel was in charge three years, followed by the present pastor, E. V. Naus- baum in 1901. The present membership is forty-fi\e families, many of them living in the country districts. They have a Sabbath school with ah average attendance of about eighty scholars. Adan; Studt is superinten- dent. In 1897 the Crumerine property was purchased and converted into a parsonage. The services are conducted al- ternately each Sunday in German and English. In 1901 the confirmation class reached the number of twenty-three. CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GLASCO. On June 23, 1878, a congregation of the city of Glasco met at the old stone school house and after listening to a discourse by Elder G. J. Root, an invitation was given to all those who wished to be joined together in the bonds of Christian fellowship, to walk together as a church of Christ, to come forward. To this call fourteen responded. Of this number but one remains in Glasco, Susan Reed. Some having passed "over the river" and others removed to various parts of the world. Reverend Root, who was a successful pastor and organizer, died a few years later of consumption. For some time the pulpit was filled with ministers from other fields of labor. In 1879 preparations were begun for the building of a church. They erected a Lutheran Church at Glasco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 533 frame building which was rented for school purposes, the district advanced the rent and the money was applied to finish the interior. A bell was placed in 1880 and replaced with a new one in 1884, the first one having been broken. E. F. Russell held meetings in the year 1879, with some additions. Reverend George S. Smith, who lived near Glasco, preached to the people of this congregation. Following Reverend Smithi, Harvey Ballou, accepted the charge and the winter of 1885-6 a revival was held and Reverend Hopkins, an elegant tenor singer, held an institute or series of song services. Several distinguished divines have held meetings from time to time in this church, among them Reverends Pardee Butler, M. Ingalls, W. W. Hopkins and John W. Randall, state evangelist. Following Reverend Ballou, Reverends E. J. Palmer and W. I. Thomas each filled the pulpit for short periods. Reverend John W. Garner, then of Beloit, ministered to this congregation at various times and held several successful revivals. Reverend. G. T. Blacks labored in this field a short period. Reverend Lee filled the pulpit six months and was followed by Reverend J. K. Ballou, who was ordained there. He was followed by B. F. Sheppard. Reverend Smith is their present pastor. The church has had a membership of one hundred and forty. They have a Sabbath school in a good condition, with an average attendance of sixty, under the superintendency of Ira Ellison. In connection with the church is a Christian Endeavor Society and a Woman's Aid Society, both doing good work. GLASCO STATE BANK. The Glasco State Bank was organized January 2, 1893, as the Ains- worth Bank, an individual concern, with the following officials : L. Ains- worth, president ; F. L. Ainsworth, secretary and cashier. Directors, L. Ainsworth, F. L. Ainsworth, M. O. Ainsworth, Ina Ainsworth and L. D. Ainsworth (deceased). They organized with a capital stock of fourteen thousand dollars. The business was conducted by the secretary and cashier as the Ainsworth Bank until the early part of 1897. March 22, 1897, the citizens of Glasco met to organize a state bank, capital six thousand dollars. The first stockholders were Thomas Butler, Lewis Ainsworth, L. Noel, J. M. Brock, G. B. VanLandingham, E. C. Davidson, M. L. Hare, J. M. Haddock, Jr., and F. L. Ainsworth. The following officers were appointed for a term of one year: L. Noel, presi- dent, Thomas Butler, vice-president; J. M. Brock, secretary, F. L. Ains- worth, cashier. Directors: Thomas Butler, L. Ainsworth, L. Noel, J. M. Brock and E. C. Davidson. In 1900 F. L, Ainsworth transferred his stock to G. H. Bernard, G. B. VanLandingham withdrew transferring his stock to Mr. Noel soon after the organization of the bank. The bank building is a substantial one with modern fixtures and is the property of the Ains- worths. All the officers have been retained except the change of Mr. Bernard as cashier on October i, 1900. L. J. Marlatt was bookkeeper from 32 534 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the organization until July, 1901, when his place was taken by C. L. Hare, the present incumbent. The capital stock remained six thousand dollars until 1902, when it was increased to twelve thousand dollars, with deposits amounting to one hundred and four thousand one hundred and twenty-five dollars and sixteen cents. The deposits have scarcely been below the one hundred thousand dollar mark since January, 1901. Correspond- ents: National Bank of Commerce, First National Bank, and the New England Bank of Kansas City, and Fourth National Bank of New York. SOLOMON VALLEY WOOL GROWING ASSOCIATION. An association was organized in 1875, during which period wool grow- ing was one of the leading enterprises of Cloud county, and more especially of the Solomon valley. The first officers were J. L. Hostetler, president, and John Vernon, secretary. This annual sheep-shearing picnic and festival was held at various places, but John Vernon's grove, one mile north of Simp- son, was a favorite meeting place. The people came from all over the coun- try and camped for two days. Sheep-shearing matches with first, second and third premiums were one of the interesting features. Some of the sheep yielded coats weighing forty pounds. These events were days of honest pleasure and good cheer. There were none of the coarser pleasures indulged m ; nothing stronger than lemonade could be secured. A band discoursed music for the meny throng assembled to trip the "light fantastic" each evening. Speakers were imported from all parts of the state, the newspaper reporter was in evidence, and these gatherings were largely advertised all over the country. Mitchell and Cloud counties owe much of their prosperity to this asso- ciation. The interest set the counties of Mitchell and Cloud booming. There was a spirit of rivalry grading, shearing and arranging the flocks. It was the first organization of the kind in the state but some of Emporia's citi- zens who were interested in sheep raising were in attendance and upon re- turning organized a society in their own county and others followed. THE GLASCO FOOT BALL TEAM. The Glasco foot ball team, one of the strongest in the state, owes its origin to L. F. Davidson, who has been their captain since its organization. Mr. Davidson contracted the foot ball "craze" while a student of the Ottawa University, and upon his return home, imparted the "malady" to the young men of Glasco and vicinity. This is a team of athletic young men that Glasco may well feel proud of, and they have proved themselves to be among the finest material in the state. The team was organized in 1896, and was composed largely of farmer boys in and around Glasco, who rapidly devel- oped into good foot ball players ; as no one not fitted for the position assigned him was accepted, and no one admitted who did not express a liking for the game. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 535 In August, 1896, John Outland, who was a player in the Kansas Uni- versity team, and one of the best half-back players in the state of Kansas, gave them a three days' coaching. Several minor games were played during the autumn of that year between Beloit, Concordia, Simpson, Delphos, Min- neapolis and Abilene, the latter making the only score against the Glasco team. The other games were considered good practice for the Glasco com- bination, and were easily won. The following year Glasco took on the best team in the state. They defeated the Atchisons, the second best team in the state, thirty-two to nothing, giving Glasco the laurels, of second best, with even money offered that their team could defeat the K. Us. Accordingly, October, 1897, was set for this important event. The day was all that could be desired, and a large, enthusiastic crowd that had convened from all direc- tions greeted the players. The game was called at 2 :30, and after desperate playing by both sides, the score stood twenty-three to nothing in favor of the Kansas University team. Time, forty-five minutes. Glasco had the ball on Kansas University five yards three different times, but lost by bad moves on the part of one of her players. Kansas University team of 1897 won the pennant, shutting out nearly all the other university teams that year. The Kansas University players were unanimous in their remarks that it was the closest, hardest fought game of the season, and all were ready to ride from the field to the city. Both sides played scientifically. Glasco's lines were firmly knit together, but they were beaten by the mthod of play- ing thir men. Such reputed players as Morse, Foster, Speak, Bert Kennedy (who was" afterward half-back on the University of Pennsylvania team), ^^'oodward and Voits, in fact the best men the Kansas University has ever had and the best coach; Wyle G. Woodruff, of the Kansas University. These men all said it was decidedly the best game played that year. The next event was played in Beloit between the Glasco and Ottawa University teams, and resulted in a score of four to four. In November of this same year the Washburn team was shut out. The game was a clean and well fought one; but the Washburns were completely outclassed, through one of the most beautifully fought games of the season. The score stood, Glasco eighteen, Washburn University nothing. The Washburns were worn out at the end of the game, while Glasco was as fresh as when she entered. The next game was with Abilene, in which the score stood, Glasco thirty- two, Abilene nothing. Several minor games were played in the various towns around, and resulted in easy victories with fair practice for Glasco. The first game of moment in 1898 was with the Ottawa University at Concordia, and resulted in a score of Glasco eleven, Ottawa nothing. Wash- burn being none the less daunted by a former defeat, demonstrated their pluck by marching themselves against Glasco in another game. There was but twenty minutes of the game played, and the score stood twenty-eight to nothing in favor of Glasco. A game played with Abilene resulted in a score of Glasco thirty-two, Abilene nothing. With a few minor games the season closed. 336 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The only important game played in the autumn of 1899 was with the Kansas University "Short Grass" team, and resulted in a score of Glasco eighteen, Kansas University Short Grass nothing. This team was again defeated in the autumn of 1900 with the same score. The autumn of 1901 two very important games were played. The first with the "Terrible Swedes" of Bethany College, Lindsborg, Kansas, which resulted in a score of Glasco eleven, Swedes five. This game was followed by another bout with the Kansas University Short Grass team, with a score of Glasco twelve, Kansas Short Grass nothing. In 1902, Osborne's strong team came down full of ambition and assurance, but was taken down the line to the tune of six to nothing, in favor of Glasco. The Haskell Indians and the Glasco team had arranged for a game on Thanksgiving day, of 1902, which was chscontinued after a brief time. Glasco cornered the ball through the Haskell line, for eighty-five yards and eight touchdowns. The Indians thought this too much, objected to the referee's decision, and quit the game, a fact greatly deplored by the Glasco foot ball management. The most exciting and important game of the season was played on the 8th day of November, 1902, with the "Giant Swede" team from Bethany College, who were defeated by Glasco last year, in a game; score 11 to 5. In this year (1902), they were the strongest team in the state, as the following record shows : Kansas Wesleyan University Swedes 46 Hoisington " 105 Pratt " 56 Manhattan Agricultural College " 40 Washburn University ' 12 " 11 Ottawa University 5 " 17 Haskell Indians " 18 Ottawa University 5 " 17 Washburn University " 72 Glasco 12 " 17 Glasco had shut out the big Swede team for forty-five minutes of play, and in the meantime had made two touchdowns, kicked both goals, making a score of Glasco 12, Swedes o. The referee, having friends from Minneapo- lis who had wagered their money on the Swedes seemed greatly interested in the result, and gave a decision that gained them five points, and not deeming this concession enough, gave them the ball at a time when Glasco could have held the score Glasco 12, Swedes 11. Hence, through an un- scrupulous referee, Glasco lost the honor of winning from the best team in the state, and in what will in all probability be the last game played by the old team; although all unprejudiced spectators conceded the game was fairly won by the Glasco team, and acknowledged by the Swedes to be the best, and hardest game they had ever participated in. Just before Christmas, 1902, the Osborne team seemingly thought Glasco could be bluffed, and offered to play for a purse of $600, each town to furnish half the amount. Glasco HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 537 readily, and eagerly responded to the proposition, but Osborne was not forth- coming and the game was declared off. The first line-iip of the Glasco team played for three years, and was as follows: Line-np of 1896 — A. Mann, center; J. Downey, right guard; H. Reed, left; L. Mann, right tackle; J. Eutler, left; J. Bncklin, right end; C. Franks, left; E. Spaulding, quarter back; W. Davidson, full back; L. F. Davidson, right half back; A. E. Ab1x)tt, left half back. Line-up of 1902 — A. Klein, center; F. Henry, right guard; H. Allen, left : Joe Lotithan, right tackle ; J. Downey, left ; George Nowells, right end ; C. Franks, left; J. Davidson, quarter back; W. Davidson, full back; L. F. Davidson (captain), right half back; Pete Sullivan, left. Better material for foot ball players could not be produced than the above line-up. They were perfection itself. If a shortcoming could be found, it was in the training. The last line-up, several of whom were members of the first organization, have played in the team, for the past three years, and are not lacking in qualities essential to the game. The coach of the Swede team remarked : "W'ith proper training, the Glasco team could defeat any combination west of the Mississippi river." S. T. Day was manager until 1898, v\'hen he was succeeded by L. F. Davidson, the promoter of the team and captain since its organization. The Davidsons are all scientific players, and "game" to the last. In the last strug- gle with the Big Swedes, " Wid" Davidson had to be carried from the field, but would not yield the palm until fate decreed it. In October, 1901, the Iv. U. team had its pro.spects brightened by the addition to its ranks of Joe Davidson, who has won an enviable reputation as a "shortgrass" half back player. Were the Glasco foot ball team to practice sufficiently, they would doubt- less cover themselves with glory, and sigh "for other worlds to conquer." GLASCO BASE BALL TEAM. Glasco also had a winning base ball team at one time, often "white- washing" the neighboring ball players. One of the best games played in the country was between Clyde and Glasco, on October 22, 1895. The latter won by five scores. Much interest was taken for several seasons, but the talent de- veloped into foot ball players, and from that date, interest in base ball waned, until last year (1902) when a team was organized that won laurels. They were the winners of the Chapman tournament and champions of the state, by a score of 17 to 9 in favor of Glasco. G. W. STUDT & BROTHER. A cut of the commodious and handsome new store building of J. W. Studt & Bro. of Glasco is shown on following page. This enterprising firm demonstrated their faith in Glasco and the Solomon valley, their intention to 538 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Exterior of Studt Brothers Store. remain- there permanently and the magnitude of business they control by the erection of this costly building. Their increasing trade had outgrown their former quarters and in the summer of 1902, they erected a fine stone structure 44 by 100 feet in dimen- sions, two stories in height, and a basement under the en- tire building. It is of mod- ern and extremely substan- tial architecture, full plate glass front, iron ceiling and steam heated throughout. There is an elevator from the basement to the first floor to be used in handling heavy goods. The room is well lighted and ventilated, the whole front being glass, and windows above the shelving. The upper floor is owned and used by the Independent Order of Odd Fellov.'S and is handsomely equipped for that purpose. The valua- tion of this property would reach $10,000 at a low estimate. The Studt Brothers increased their stock of merchandise when they established themselves in their new quarters and have one of the most complete general stores in the country. One illustration shows the exterior and the other the interior of the build- ing; the photo of the latter having been taken before the goods were moved in, gives a view of the hand- some fixtures and equip- ments of this modern, up- to-date business house. The firm of Studt Brothers, dealers in general merchandise, is composed of J. W. and Adam Studt. This enterprising firm em- barked in business in Glas- co in the year 1887, with a capital stock of about $4,000. They have gradually increased their stock to $15,000, and do a business of about $35,000 annually. They employ two clerks and own the building they occupy, Engraving Showing Finished Interior Ready FOR Occupancy. HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 539 a stone structure 24 by 80 feet in dimensions with a basement. The build- ing was erected in 1886, iDy Hare & Welch. They first occupied the Depp building where Hager & Company now are, remained two years and removed to their present quarters. The Studt Brothers are natives of Iowa, of German origin. They came to Kansas in 1879, and located in Glasco where they have become leading citizens and one of the most enterprising firms of that city. Their father was Jacob Studt who died in Iowa in 1872. Their mother by a second mar- riage became the wife of Jacob Studt, a distant relative of her former hus- band. To this union two children were born. Adam Studt was married in 1885, to Maggie, a daughter of his step- father. To this marriage two children were born, Leo and Mamie. Mrs. Studt was deceased in April, 1889. In 1895, he was married to Miss Clar- issa Clark. Adam Studt owns one hundred and sixty acres of land three miles west of Glasco; well improved, good bottom land in the south side of the river. J. W. Studt was married in 1889, to Miss Ota Hussey who died May 31, 1902, after a long illness. She was a member of the first graduating class from the Glasco high school and taught successfully for three years, one year in the Glasco schools. Mrs. Studt died at the age of thirty-one years. She was a woman universally beloved ; a devoted mother and wife. Nearly one thousand people attended the obsequies and more than one hun- dred carriages followed to her last resting place. They were the paraits of two sons, Roy George and Even J. The latter died at the age of six weeks. J. W. Studt has one hundred and sixty acres of bottom land ad- joining Glasco. It is a well impro\ed farm with good buildings. The Studt brothers each own residence properties which are among the most de- sirable of Glasco. Politically they are Republicans and are members of the Lutheran church. They are industrious, enterprising men and rank among the foremost citizens of Glasco. STORY OF THE HILLHOUSE FAMILY. The history of this extraordinary family has been interwoven with the country since its earliest settlement. They have had experiences enough to fill a fair sized volume of Hillliouse reminiscences of pioneer and front- ier life. John Hillhouse and his wife, Jeanette (McClair) Llillhouse, were natives of Scotland. They were born in Ayrshire and Lenarkshire in the years 1834 and 1832, respectiveh'. They were married in their native land August 5, 1853, and eagerly longed to try their fortunes in the new world of which such fabulous stories were told. They came to America in 1856 with their little family which then consisted of themselves, William A. and Jessie. They landed in Boston, May i, 1856, came to Chicago when there were not more than three hundred houses and on through Rock Island and Davenport to Iowa City, the terminus of the railroad. Here they bought an outfit and made an overland trip across the plains to Salt Lake City 540 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. where they landed in October, 1S56. Salt Lake City was then far remote from civilization, and Brigham Young ruled the territory with a rod of iron. The opposition of the Hillhouse family was early recognized in the church, and not only were they refused the privilege of earning their bread, but con- Mr. and Mrs. John Hillhouse. stant and unendurable vigilence \\'as exercised by their persecutors, lest they should leave the city. It was in April, 1857, that this family with no supplies but a little flour aboard a hand cart, guietly left the city one morning and hurried away to join a train of emigrants, on its return to recross the plains, and two days journey out. The escape of the little band was early learned in the city and a posse of seven mounted Danites started rapidly in pursuit, overtak- ing them early in the morning several miles into and over the mountains, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. S4i and almost within sight of the train to which they were eagerly and i"apidly hurrying. The horsemen drew down upon them with drawn revolvers and commanded them to retrace their footsteps under penalty of instant death. Mrs. Hillhouse refused point blank to return, telling them they had starved while there for want of work, and that they were not spies as charged but ■were to return to Scotland from whence they came. The men finally de- cided to let the mother and children proceed, but Mr. Hillhouse was di'agged from his family, returned a prisoner to Salt Lake, more than two and one- half years elapsing before the family were reunited. The day was far spent, and night, cold, snowy and blustry was already there. The attempt to push on and reach the train that night was for the weep- ing mother, children and sister of Mr. Hillhouse to lose their way, and surely perish from hunger and cold. With a little shovel Mrs. Hillhouse scooped away the snow, placed the children under the cart, covered them as well as possible and settled down to watch through that long, dreary winter night for the first gray streak of dawn that would light them on their way toward the train. But the longest night will pass, and with the children in the cart and with blinding tears this woman pushed out for, she knew not where. Toward the middle of the afternoon a party from the train who knew of the intended escape and that the fugitives were to join them on the second day, rescued and took them into camp. Their destination was Plattsmouth, Nebraska, and the journey began. The train was heavily loaded but the little sack of flour was taken aboard and Mrs. Hillhouse with the two children in the cart tramped five hundred miles, the distance to Fort Laramie. The incidents of this journey alone would fill many columns. Plattsmouth, Nebraska, was finally reached and through the influence of kind friends who had heard of her adventures and heroism, the mother mourning her husband as dead, found work. Mrs. Hillhouse had leai'ned the dressmaking trade in Scotland and did fine needlework which enabled her to support her little familv Avhile Mr. Hillhouse was detained in Salt Lake. Within a year she was running a. successful dressmaking estab- lishment in their new home. Mr. Hillhouse after the separation in the mountains was taken to Salt Lake a prisoner and threatened with death. In the autumn of 1857, he escaped, joined an emigrant train bound for California and there found work. Through the medium of letters to the old home in Scotland, the husband and wife were finally notified of each other's existence and address, but not until all hope had been abandoned of the return of Jeanette, who liked the new land and decided to stay. Her return was expected and not until then was word to be given her that her husband still lived; but the return did not come, and Mr. Hillhouse was finally notified of the where- abouts of his family. He immediately sailed from San Francisco for New- York and then crossed the continent again, to Plattsmouth, where the family were reunited. For reasons concerning his health, another move was made to Platte 542 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. county, Missouri, in 1859, where, in those troublesome days of business un- certainties, and dangers of war, peace came not ; but the trials of former days were to be renewed in other and equally distressing ways. Mr. Hillhouse enlisted in Company K, i8th Missouri Volunteer Infantry, January 2, 1862, and was discharged the following August. There was no peace, no secur- ity in Missouri for them; the father was hunted day and night by prowling bands of bush-whackers and guerrillas. His property or possessions were taken or destroyed as fast, as accumulated, and Mrs. Hillhouse was frequently at the point of pistol or bayonet, commanded to reveal the hiding place of her husband. Some of his escapes were little less than miraculous. Many and frequent were the skull and cross bone notices to leave, the torch ap- plied to the little log house and the children, V/illiam, Jessie and Margaret (there were three now) threatened with death; until with an outfit such as they could muster from the wreck and ruin of the past, the family left Mis- souri overland for the Solomon valley in Cloud county, Kansas. This country was being surveyed, opened to soldiers and widely ad- vertised. They arrived in March of 1866, and on April ist located a home- stead on the Solomon river, then Shirley county and not organized. The buffalo came to drink from their watering place. After homesteading, the munificent sum of twenty-five cents was the entire cash possession of the family. They were the only family for miles up or down the river except the Hendershots and Robert Smith. The family would often cry for joy at the appearance of a covered wagon. At that time there were no supplies only as freighted from Leaven- worth. The Indians were alert, hostile and every moment to be feared and dreaded. Prairie fires laid waste possessions, droughts, floods and grass- hoppers were to be met and endured. Scarcely a page of the life of the frontier but was to be filled out to the last line. While attending to the duties entailed upon farm life Mrs. Hillhouse would often be left alone with her three children. During the raid of 1868, their barn, corn and crib was burned by the Indians, a horse was stolen and the family pursued while enroute to the stockade near Minneapolis. This flight was made in a two- horse wagon. The Indians came within two hundred years of them, but ' when they discovered the "Jim Lane'" cannon in position they fled to the hills and far away. However, had they known the cannon was not primed they might not have been so quickly routed. The company were indebted to Mrs. Robert Smith's ingenuity ; she took the bail off the coffee pot to prime the cannon. The party went on unmolested to Lindsay, where the little handful of settlers had congregated for protection. Two weeks later they returned. These families had gathered together for -many miles around; some of the women and children Avere walking, some of them old and crip- pled, some screaming, others crying or praying. A company of the United States infantry camped at the Hillhouse home- stead. They had plenty of rations and the English captain relished the buf- falo m.eat pie made by Mrs. Hillhouse. About this time a gentleman of nd- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 543 ble bearing came with a party of friends to hunt buffalo. Mrs. Hillhouse cooked their supper and furnished them with a night's lodging. A week later, a Mr. McMillan of Harvard University with a guide, in search of ra- tions, came and revealed the fact that she had entertained an English noble- man, for her guest was none other than the Prince of Wales. The first season Mrs. Hillhouse had a beautiful garden in the low land near the river but one day a rise came and swept the whole thing away. She, with WilHara and Jessie planted nine acres of corn by cutting an opening in the sod with an ax, placed the' corn and with their feet pressed it into the earth. John Hillhouse was visiting relatives in the west, Idaho and Utah for the purpose of regaining his health. He was at Heber, thirty miles out of Salt I .ake, enroute home \\hen he was stricken with an attack of heart trouble. In a few hours the man who had bra\'ed the dangers few men are called upon to undergo, dangers of land and sea, of Indians, Mormons and Gentiles, the horrors of war, terrors of the bushwhackers torch and the midnight assassin, privations and hardships of frontier life, days and weeks without food enough to sustain life and family, the discouragements of grasshoppers, drouth, etc., the heart that experienced all of these without surrender to fear, at last before the king of terrors ceased to beat, on August i, 1892. Mrs. Hillhouse, a remarkably vivacious and interesting woman, survives him. She is thoroughly Americanized and prefers this to her native country, but is ever pleased to hear of prosperity in Scotland. But with all the hard- ships endured she is loyal to America and prefers her adopted home. She still retains the old homestead and as they had the choice of practically any location it is one of the finest farms in the Solomon valley. The seven children are as follows: William A. (see sketch) Jessie, wife of D. D. Williams, a carpenter of Glasco : they are the parents of six chil- dren; Frank, Alice, wife of Walter Purcell, of Oklahoma, Maggie, wife of Herman Mann, Jessie, Nellie and David. Madge A., wife of M. L. Hare, a druggist of Glasco, Kansas. Mary, wife of J. V. Bartow, in the employ of Chapin & Sweet as second miller in the Delphos mills; they have two children, Earl and Willie. James Robert, station agent a.t Delphos. Kansas, where he married Miss May Jones. David, a farmer and lives on the old homestead, married to Mary Olmstead of Glasco. Catherine, wife of A. E. Abbott, for seven years a Cloud county teacher; he is a graduate of the Salina Normal and is now teaching on his third year in District No. 47. Mrs. Hillhouse is a member of the Presbyterian church, christened in her native country by the old Covenanters. Her parents were Hugh and Jeanette (McKenzie) McClair, natives of the highlands of Scotland. Her father was a seafaring man, being a mariner on a ship under Admiral Nelson. Her paternal grandfather was a factor to the Duke of Argyle, one hundred and seventy years ago. Hugh McClair was stolen when a boy and for twenty years it was thought he had drowned at sea, but he had been 544 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sold to a pirate vessel instead. An uncle, her father's only brother, was a sergeant in the British army. Her maternal ancestry, the McKensies were all well-to-do Scotch people, overseers of coal works, merchants, etc. — [After an illness of several months, Mrs. Hillhouse was deceased in April, 1903. — Editor.] THE CHICAGO LLrMBER COMPANY. The cut on this page represents the handsome new quarters of the Chicago Lumber Company. They have been established in Glasco since the early eighties, but until recently were located in another part of the city. In 1902 they erected their present buildings, which are among the finest and most attractive of their numerous yards throughout the country. This firm carries an extensive line of well selected lumber, doors, windows, blinds, paints, etc. Cornelius G. Archer, their local manager, has had years of experience in the lumber business and has held his present position since 1897. He is a native of Ogle county, Ohio, bom in 1854. His father is Joseph Arch- er, a brother of the late Sheriff Archer of Cloud county. The Archers are of English origin, and their ancestors settled in Virginia along with the Colonists, and \\ere patriots of the Revolutionary war. Mr. Archer's parents are both liv- ing and are residents of Virginia, having resided there since 1873. Mr. Archer's mother was Katherine Harris before her marriage. She descends from a long lived race; her father died at the age of ninety- eight, and his brother at one hundred and three. Her paternal grand- mother died at the age of one hundred and seven years. Mr. Archer re- members hearing her relate stories o* Daniel Boone, whom she knew person- ally. She also knew Lou Wetzel, of Indian fame, and lived in Virginia at that time. Her name was Enochs. Mr. Archer's record is that of a boy who unaided, forged his way to manhood, worked his way up to a position of trust, and now enjoys the confidence of his employers, and the good will of his fellow citizens. HONORABLE WILLIAM A. HILLHOUSE. The early life of W. A. Hillhouse is woven with the story of the Hill- house family related in the preceding chapters. He is a prominent citizen and the present efficient postmaster of Glasco. He is a native of Scotland, Chicago Lumber Company's Yards at Glasco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. S4S born at Lanarkshire in 1854, and a son of Mr. and Mrs. John Hillhouse. He was educated in the common schools of Missouri and Kansas and began his career farming; took up a homestead in the Solomon valley, where he lived until 1885, when he became associated with his father and J. E. Olm- stead, Sr., in the grain business, and built an elevator. At the expiration of one year Mr. Olmstead retired from the business and the firm was continued by the father and son until the death of the former in 1892. Mr. Hillhouse continued the business alone until 1897, when he was appointed postmaster of Glasco. He was married in 1883 to Vira McCullough, a daughter of James T. McCullough, who died April 5, 1885. Mr. McCullough was born near Ath- ens, Ohio, December 14, 1820. His paternal grandfather was a soldier in the Black Hawk war. Mr. McCullough was married to Mary G. Brown January 29, 1843, and moved to Marshall county, Iowa, in 1864, where he followed blacksmithing. Mrs. Hillhouse is one of twelve children, eight of whom are living: James and Robert, of Iowa; Mrs. Joe Olmstead, of Glasco; Mrs. Oscar Hillan, John, William and Oscar. Mrs. McCullough died February 9, 1878, and the father with his family moved to Cloud county, Kansas, in 1879. In 1881 he was married to Mrs. A. Patrick, who survives him. Mr. McCullough was a good man, faithful in the discharge of his duties and had been a member of the Presbyterian church for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Hillhouse have one daughter, Nellie, a graduate of the Glasco high school, class of 1901. She is a qualified assistant in the postoffice and thoroughly competent in that capacity. Mrs. Hillhouse is also registered in the postofifice department. Mr. Hillhouse is a Republican and has figured conspicuously in the political arena of Cloud county. . He served four years as deputy sheriff of the county, under John D. Wilson two years, 1 880-1, and under a brother, Daniel Wilson, two years, 1882-3. Mr. Hillhouse has served three terms as mayor of the city of Glasco and at variotis times as member of the city coun- cil. Has been a Mason for twelve years and has occupied the chair as master of Glasco lodge; is an Odd Fellow, having been a prominent member of the order for twenty-four years and helped to organize the lodge at Glasco. He is also a member of the Modern Woodmen, Royal Neighbors, Fraternal Aid and Sons of Veterans. MARCUS L. HARE. M. L. Hare, of the successful and enterprising drug firm of Brierley & Hare, is a thoroughly competent pharmacist and prescriptionist. He is not only one of the most reliable druggists in the country, but one of the best posted men on the topics of the day and perhaps the best general authority in his town. Their stock of drugs, medicines and druggists' sundries have been selected with the greatest care and they have one of the neatest and best .appointed business houses in the city of Glasco. 546 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Hare is a native of Iowa, born in 1854. His parents are D. L. and Rebecca (Burk) Hare. His father was a farmer. Mr. Hare's mother died in 1 891, and his father married again in 1900 and resides in Glasco. The Hares are of English origin and the Burks of German. Mi". Hare is the third child of a family of eight children, all of whom are living. Two broth- ers and one sister are residents of Cloud county; the others have found homes in various states. Mr. Hare is a self-made and self-educated man. He was reared on a farm and followed that pursuit until thirty years of age. During the period he should have been in school they lived in Missouri, where everything was devastated as a result of the Civil war. He gained his knowledge of book lore after he had passed the age of twenty years. He realized more and more the need of an education and by his personal efforts he succeeded in obtaining one. He was seven years old when his parents left Iowa and settled in Andrew county, Missouri. In March, 1871, he emi- grated to Cloud county and settled on a farm in the Solomon valley. In 1883 he came into Glasco and engaged in the hardware business; five years later he erected the large stone business block now occupied by R. G. Bracken's . furniture store, where he remained until receiving the appointment of postmaster in 1889, during the latter part of Cleveland's administration, to succeed Noah Welch, resigned, and though a Democrat he recommended Mr. Hare, who was appointed and served four and one-half years. When Mr. Cleveland was elected to his second term Mr. Hare resigned and was succeeded by Owen Day. In the meantime Mr. Hare had become associated with C. M. White in the drug store located in the postoffice building. In 1892 he bought Mr. White's interest in the firm and conducted the business until 1896, when he entered into partnership with Dr. Brierley in their present business. They also own jointly two very fine farms. One, the Captain Potts farm, is situated on the river, one mile west and the other three and one-half miles west of Glasco. These farms are both under high cultivation and improvement and are valuable estates. Mr. Hare was married in 1879 to Miss Margaret Hillhouse, a daugh- ter of John Hillhouse. Their family consists of three children, viz: Jeanette, a talented and accompjished young woman, is a graduate from the Glasco high school and on the fourth year of a collegiate course at Linds- borg. Charles is a trusted and valuable employe of the Glasco State Bank. He has evidently pleased his employers, as the length of time he has been with them (two years) signifies. He is a graduate of the Glasco high school and one 'of the most popular young men in the community. May, the youngest daughter, is a graduate of the Glasco high school. Mr. Hare is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons and Knights of Pythias. He has at- tained his good record through constant application and is. an excellent busi- ness manager. Mr. Hare took a correspondence course through the Chicago Institute of Pharmacy and passed an examination before a board of exam- iners. He worked hard to accomplish this end, often burning midnight oil, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 547 but was rewarded by a satisfactory test of his qualifications. Mr. Hare is an agreeable, pleasant gentleman, and with liis esteemed family occupy one of the handsome homes of Glasco and are among the most highly respected citizens of their town. WARREN W. PALMER. W. W. Palmer, an extensive farmer and stockman residing in Glasco, is a native of Massachusetts, born in Somerville, a suburb of Boston, in 1843. He is a son of Theodore and Lydia (Wood) Palmer. One branch of the Palmers came over in the Mayflower and settled in Massachusetts, and emigrated later to New Hampshire where Theodore Palmer was bom and married. They subsequently moved to Massachusetts, where their fam- ily was reared. Mr. Palmer's mother was a native of Massachusetts and died June 5, 1863. His father came to Kansas in 1881 to live in the home of his son and died in Neosha Falls in 1883. Mr. Palmer emigrated to LaSalle county, Illinois, in i860 where he remained until the following June, when he enlisted in Company A, Twentieth Illinois Infantry, and served three years, before arriving at the age of twenty-one. After the siege of Vicksburg he was transferred to the signal corps. He did not miss an engagement that his company partici- pated in and was with Grant in every battle that famous general com- manded, with the exception of Fort Pillow. When the signal corps in Banks' regiment arrived at Cane river, Louisiana, and they were fired upon by the enemy, the movements of the attacking column were conducted en- tirely by signal. The history by J. Willard Brown says, "Private Warren W. Palmer was complimented in the records for standing at his post like a true man and soldier while staff officers ran their horses to the rear for a more secure position." His picture also appears in the work. Mr. Palmer was very young but had a brother in the ser\'ice who was a good soldier and through this influence he was allowed to pass and enlist. At the time of his transference he was a corporal. He was neither wounded, sick or in prison during the service. He was in the battles of Fort Henry, Shiloh, Siege of Corinth, Britton's Lane, and with Grant's army at Fort Gibson, Utica and Champion Hill, where their regiment turned the tide of that battle ; by a bold dash of General Logan's at the proper time every piece of artillery fell into their hands. The battle was a bloody one and fiercely fought. On the march from Jackson to Vicksburg they charged on Fort Hill and were repulsed, but stationed themselves a few rods away, threw up an embankment, dug trenches and tunneled through to the Fort; put in powder and blew it up making several efforts before they succeeded. One of the Rebel oflicers and a colored servant were killed in this affair, the darky being hurled into the air and landed in the Federal ranks. While the regiment was lying at Memphis in the autumn of 1862, there were numerous desertions. On one occasion Mr. Palmer and a comrade were 548 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. strolling along Pigeon Road where the woods were full of guerrillas. The pair drifted several miles from camp m the vicinity of an old railroad track and discovered half a dozen men coming in their direction who they supposed were guerrillas. As they approached one of their number, a Ger- man, expressed a desire to be spokesman and upon being questioned as to what their intentions were, replied that they were fugitives of war and also affirmed that thousands more wanted to join them. The German invited them over to their plantation where they found card tables and other evi- dences of entertainment. Before taking their departure arrangements were made for Mr. Palmer and his partner to return and bring with them all who desired to desert the army with, the promise of sending them anywhere on parole in the south or north on the Mississippi river. Upon returning to camp the gallant "boys in blue" related their novel experience and Gen- eral Logan immediately sent two companies of soldiers with staff officers, guides and men to arrest the fugitives who had forsaken their post of duty. Mr. Palmer with several others repaired to the place of meeting, reported themselves ready for the promised assistance and were instructed to go to a certain rendezvous for passports, etc. A few moments later and the door was burst open, tlie occupants taken in charge and put under guard. The three leaders of the gang were sent to the Alton penitentiary for the remain- der of the war. Upon investigation they found in the house accoutrements of war and the papers of one hundred or more soldiers who had become deserters. After the war Mr. Palmer obtained a position with Drake & Beebee's commision house, remaining eighteen months and removed to Dongola, Union county, Illinois, where he lived two years and was appointed post- master and express agent, which offices he had held one year prior to this^ date for Mr. Leavenworth, who resigned and was succeeded by Mr. Pal- mer. Our subject was one of eleven children, four of whom are living. He has two brothers — Homer, a resident of Idaho, and George, who was in the same company with Mr. Palmer, is an inmate of the Soldiers' Home at Ouincy, Illinois. He is sixty-six years of age. A sister, Caroline Moore, is a resident of Boston, Massachusetts. A brother, William, who enlisted in a ^Massachusetts regiment, was killed in the battle of Spotsylvania. Lyman, another brother, who was also one of a Massachusetts regiment, was wounded and died in this state from the effects of the wound. Mr. Palmer located in Glasco in the winter of 1878-9 and for several years followed carpentering. He assisted in building the first house that was erected in that city after it secured the railroad. He leases and operates a section of fine land about one mile from Glasco, which he has farmed since 1893. Within the eight years that he has operated this farm the land has produced thirty thousand bushels of wheat, and the present year (1901) he has two hundred and sixty acres. In 1897 his wheat averaged forty bushels and in 1891 forty-one bushels per acre. In the latter year he had twenty acres of volunteer wheat that yielded twenty-seven and one-half bushels per HISTORY OF CL.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 549 acre. In 1901 a field of two hundred acres yielded forty bushels per acre; much- was wasted on account of dry weather and he garnered but twenty- three hundred bushels. Mr. Palmer has raised cattle and hogs successfully, shipping two car loads of the latter per year. Plis herd of cattle consists of ninety head. He visited Alissouri in 1900 and purchased several head of the Aberdeen strain and is breeding his herd into the Aberdeen-Angus. He has been very successful in alfalfa and has sixty-five acres that yielded one hun- dred and twenty-five tons the present year. Mr. Palmer has also been en- gaged in the real estate and insurance business, and through his shrewd- ness and efforts many transactions in good real estate have taken place. In 1880 he became manager for the Chicago Lumber Company and was with this enterprise eight years. Mr. Palmer was married in 1865 to Mary E. Little, a daughter of John F. Little, of Compton, New Hampshire. She is a lineal descendant of George Little, nine generations removed, who settled in Newbury, Massa- chusetts, in 1640. The place of his nativity was Union street, city of Lon- don, England, in the vicinity of London Bridge. Her father was born in 1810 on the old Little homestead at Compton. The house in which he was born was a well-constructed building erected in 1786; the first shingles least- ing half a century. John F. Little was a teacher in his early life and moved to Mississippi, where he met and married Sarali Ann Dennis. She was born in 181 8. They emigrated to Dongola, Union county, Illinois, in 1866, where Mr. Little was a prominent citizen and became postmaster, express agent and justice of the peace, holding these positions several years. They lived to celebrate their golden wedding and were both deceased the following year. Mrs. Palmer is one of five children, viz : Alice Jane, deceased wife of Henry C. Neville; she died in 1866, leaving one son, Henry C, living in the state of Indiana.. John Augustus, deceased in 1859, at the age of twelve years. James Albert, born July 4, 1853, is watchman in the Marine Hospital of Cairo, Illinois. Sarah Phoebe, deceased wife of John McNamer, died July 21, 1878. The Little ancestry served in the French and Indian war, the Rev- olution, the War of 181 2 and the Civil war. A cousin of Mrs. Palmer was the youngest captain of an Iowa regiment. They were prominent people, many of them being graduates of Harvard, Yale and other noted colleges. They were all upright, industrious and God-fearing men. Her grandfa- ther, four generations back, was Colonel Moses Little, who won distinction under Washington at the battle of Bunker Hill. He led three companies across Charleston Neck under a severe fire from the British batteries, reach- ing the scene of action before the first charge of the enemy and was present throughout the engagement. He is spoken of in history as "behaving with much spirit." Though not wounded he had many narrow escapes, and forty of his regiment were killed and wounded. He was the officer of the day when Washington took command of the army and afterward became per- sonally acquainted with his commander-in-chief, who held him in high es- 33 550 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. teem. Upon one occasion several officers were complaining bitterly of the character of their provisions. Washington suggested they confer with Col- onel Moses Little, who had not found time to allude to hardships of this sort. In I J'j'j he was compelled to return home on account of illness and two years later declined for the same reason the commission of brigadier general and the command of an expedition raised by the commonwealth of Massa- chusetts to dislodge the enemy from their position on the Penobscot. He afterward represented his native town in the legislature as he had done before the war. He died in 1798. To Mr. and Mrs. Palmer have been born eight children, seven of whom are living, viz: Theodore Dudley, born in 1868, is a bookkeeper in a rail- road office at Altoona, Wisconsin. Roscoe, born in 1877, occupies a posi- tion in the same office. He was a member of the Fifteenth Minnesota, Com- pany H, and served nine months in the Cuban war. They did not encounter active service, but were encamped at Camp McKenzie, Georgia, and at Fort Snelling, Minnesota. They expected and were anxious to be sent to Cuba, but the warfare ceased ere they were called on to go. John Dennis, born in 1870, is a clerk in a department store in Marshalltown, Iowa. Adah Marie is the wife of A. R. Hilsabeck, a farmer near Oilman, Iowa. Alice Emma is married and resides in Glasco. Albert and Alma were the first twins born in the city of Glasco. Albert is at present in Colorado, where he is sojourn- ing for the benefit of his health. Alma, a prepossessing and promising young woman, was deceased January 21, 1901, at the age of twenty-one years. Harry, the youngest child, is a student of the Glasco high school. Mr. Palmer had been a life-long Republican, but in the two last presi- dential elections voted the Democratic ticket. He is a Master Mason, a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Grand Army of the Republic and has been post commander several terms. He has held the office of police judge and justice of the peace for several years and bears the reputation of being the best officer Solomon township ever had; and has tried some important cases. Mr. Palmer has probably spent more time and money in Glasco than any other individual citizen. He took a prominent part in the erection of the school building and is foremost in any public enter- prise of his town. He is one of the most influential men in Glasco, one of the most highly esteemed in the community and was a faithful and trustworthy soldier. Mrs. Palmer is a refined and cultured woman. She is a member and earnest worker of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. and Mrs. Pal- mer occupy one of the handsomest homes in their little city. CHARLES VAN TRABUE POTTS. The subject of this sketch is the eldest of the four sons of Captain John Potts, one of the old pioneers of the Solomon valley, who, after a residence of thirty-five years on his homestead near Glasco, removed to southeastern Kansas, in the vicinity of Parsons. He was one of the most highly esteemed HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 551 citizens of the community and his removal was regretted. He had the honor of captain conferred upon him by Governor Crawford, during the Indian uprisings on the Solomon. He with others organized the company which he commanded. Charles Potts was born in the "Hoosier" state in 1863 and emigrated with his parents to Kansas in 1866, during the turbulent Indian times. He has been educated and grown to manhood in the vicinity of Glasco, where he owns eighty acres of land, and with his brother, A. F. Potts, the fifth son, operates a threshing machine. They do an extensive business, handling from thirty to seventy thousand bushels of grain in a season. A. F. Potts was born near Glasco in 1875. He was married in July, 1901, to Miss Ella Hunt Gregg, a daughter of G. W. Gregg, a farmer with residence in Glasco. There are two other brothers — Joseph C, who is interested in a mineral ^yater establishment in Kansas City. He was a successful Cloud county teacher for several years. In 1888-9 he was principal of the Lincoln school in Concordia. Morton Elmer is a prosperous farmer of Labette county, Kansas. A brother, sixteen years of age, was accidentally killed on August 19, 1876. On his return from hunting he stopped at a neighbors to procure a drink of water; the gun which he had rested aginst the curbing, fell to the ground and was discharged, the young man receiving the contents just below the knee. Before the services of a physician could be obtained he ali:gost bled to death. The leg AS'as amputated, but the unfortunate boy died under the operation. The accompanying illustration shows the original Kansas home of Cap- tain Potts, which was supplanted by a commodious and modern residence several years ago. This old landmark has been torn down since the photo was taken by Mr. Soule specially for this volume. The old cabin which sheltered the family during the stir- ring Indian scenes, when dangers menaced them upon even^ side and where tliey spent anxious days and nights momentarily anticipating the dread warwhoop, has sunk into ob- livion. Again there are doubtless many pleasant memories clustered around its fireside, for pioneers are a unit when giving expression to the sympathy, neighborly kindness and good cheer that prevailed in the early days. There is a pathos in the obliteration or blotting out of these monuments of pioneer clays; however, the conditions seemingly demand it and thev are ruthlesslv torn down and forgotten. The Potts' Pioneer Home. 552 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. OAKES HOUSE. The handsome stone structure known as the Oakes House was erected in the summer of 1887, by H. H. Spaukling. It is a massive and substantial building of brown sandstone, with trimmings of white magnesia stone, which gives it a striking and imposing appearance. It is thirty-five by eighty feet in dimensions and three stories in height, with a basement under the entire building. On the first floor is a commodious office, well furnished parlors, dining room, kitchen, well and cistern room. On the second floor are the sleeping rooms, which are well appointed, airy apartments. They are not marked by numerals, as is ordinarily the case, but are designated uniquely, as McKinley, Cleveland, Goebel, Baby Ruth, Mary Ellen Lease, etc. The third flood has never been finished, as the trade does not demand it. In the basement are sample rooms and a billiard hall. A double veranda extends around two sides of the building and is pleasantly shaded by thrifty growing trees. The hotel is well furnished and is one of the most desirable prop- erties in the county. Few towns the size of Glasco can boast of as good a hostelry, and the money expended in this enterprise evidenced H. H. Spauld- ing's faith in the future of his town. The property passed into the control of Nichols Klein in 1901. PHOEBE SNYDER. One of the very early settlers of the Solomon valley is Phoebe Snyder, a native of Pennsylvania. She went with her parents to Indiana when but seven years of age and grew to womanhood in the town of Frankfort. Her father, John Murfin, was born near Liverpool, England, in 1802, emigrated to America and settled in Pennsylvania in 1834. One year later he was mar- ried to Permelia Sanders. He was a shoemaker by trade and after moving to Frankfort he owned and operated a boot and shoe store in connection with a factory. The Murfin ancestry were nearly all tillers of the soil. Mrs. Snyder's father was twice married. His first wife died in England, leaving twO' children, who remained with their grandparents near Liverpool. The Sanders were early settlers of Pennsylvania and later of Indiana, where Mrs. Snyder's grandparents „ „ „ located in the early 'thirties and cleared their land when Mrs. Phoebe Snyder. . ■' A\ild beasts roamed the forests. Her father died May 3 1 , 1858, at Frankfort, Indiana, and her mother December 30, 1886. Mrs. Sny. der is the eldest of eight children, three of whom are living : Jedduthen, proprie- tor of a chair factory in Austin, Indiana; Elizabeth, deceased at the age of eleven years; Catherine, the widow of James Davis, of Scottsburg, Indiana; Sarah died at the age of three years; Marion died in infancy; William died at the age of thirty-three years, near Austin, Indiana, leaving a wife and two children: Permelia Alice, the deceased wife of William Faulkner, died at tl:e age of thirty years, leaving two children. The Oakes House, Gl^sco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 555 Mrs. Snyder was married to Captain H. C. Snyder in Frankfort, Indi- ana, December 24, 1854. He first enlisted in the Thirty-ninth Indiana In- fantry, and was commissioned lieutenant of that company. In his second enlistment he was promoted to captain of the Eighth Iiidiana Cavalry. He was wounded twice and disabled for a short period each time, but served all through the war. When he entered the service Captain and Mrs. Snyder owned a residence and were living at Austin, Indiana, but during his ab- sence 'Sirs. Snyder had traded the propeiiy and moved on to a farm. They sold the farm in 1866 and emigrated overland to Kansas with their family of five children. They were preceded by H. H. Spaulding, who wrote back telling his Indiana friends of the beautiful valley he had found, the "Eden of the world," its natural resources and great possibilities, which resulted in Captain Snyder and five other men with their families seeking homes on the boundless prairies of Kansas. Of this little company of emigrants Mrs. Sny- der and her children are the only ones living in the community. A part of the band sought other places of residence, some became disheartened and returned tO' their former homes and some have gone to the unknown realms of the "great beyond." Captain Snyder homesteaded land one-half mile west of Glasco, now owned by Garrett Davidson, but still known as the Cap- tain Snyder farm. While Mrs, Snyder has experienced many hardships and privations, this spot marked by many sorrows, where she lived in the prim- itive days and often sat on the corner of their little dugout during her hus- band's absence, watching the night through, while her little brood slept peTicefully on the inside, endeavoring to catch the outline of the savages who might be hovering near, still seems more like home to her than any other plice. The Pawnees were numerous and while pretending to be friendly Indi- ans were often troublesome and gave cause for alarm. The outlook from the first was of a discouraging nature, though not more perhaps than in any new country, and things moved on in a "monotonous channel until the Indian raid of August 11, 1868, the first in this locality and a description of which is given elsewhere in this volume. After this excitement the Snyders, with other settlers, moved to the stockade until affairs assumed a normal condi- tion. While a new stone house was in course of erection their old domicile, built of stone with a sod roof, which was weakened by the washing down of continued rains, gave way, and, had it not been for the door casing which kept the ridge pole from giving way, Mrs. Snyder and two small children would perhaps have been severely injured. In 1872 Captain Snyder erected a one-and-a-half-story house of four rooms, which was a very pretentious residence for that day and the best in the vicinity and where they lived until 1879, when they came to Glasco. They built the little cottage where Mrs. Snyder now lives in 1887. To Captain and Mrs. Snyder ten children have been born, five of whom are living: Permelia, deceased wife of John Mann, a farmer of Cloud county and resident of Glasco (see sketch). She died August 29, 1887, leaving seven children, five of whom are living. Lewis, the oldest son, who 556 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. was wounded by the Indians, is a miner of Bingham, Utah. Leonard is sup- posed to be dead. He went to Colorado and thence to Arizona and has not been heard from for fourteen years. Ulysses is a resident of Kansas City, and was sergeant of the police force until the Democrats were put in power. He is now following his trade — ^that of a painter. Ora Bell, wife of Joe Martin (see sketch). Ada, wife of Charles Pilcher (see sketch). Anna Laura died at the age of eleven years. Henry, Jr., died in infancy. Luella, wife of Charles Franks (see sketch). Arlet died in infancy. Hattie Mann, who found a home with her grandparent, Mrs. Snyder, at the death of her mother in 1887, is deserving of much commendation for her personal virtues and meritorious career. Having been deprived of a mother's loving care, she was thrown upon her own resources early in life, and while her grandmother assumed the duties and responsibilities of a mother to the extent of her means, she was not in a financial position to give her more than a home and the wise counsels that will follow her through all the viccisitudes of life. Miss Mann is a yoimg woman of more than ordinary talents and intellect and excels in her chosen profession — that of teacher; is now engaged on her third term. She is not only cultured and refined but possesses an amiable disposition and many excellent personal qualities. Mrs. Snyder is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and lives her religion daily. She is also a member and active worker of the Woman's Relief Corps and a woman ever ready to promote the happiness or welfare of her friends and neighbors. I GEORGE WASHINGTON SMAILE. G. W. Smaile is a retired farmer and one of those old veterans of the Civil war that never tires of relating army lore. He enlisted August 15, 1862, at the age of eighteen years in Company B, One Hundred and For- tieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, «nder T. B. Rogers and Colonel R. P. Rob- erts, serving until May 11, 1865. He entered as a private and was promoted to sergeant. He received a slight wound in the hand June 2, 1864, at the battle of Cold Harbor, which disabled him until the following Febmary. He was in the battles of Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Bristow Station, Mine Run campaign, Todd's Tavern, Spottsylvania Court House, Lone Pine, Petersburg, Five Forks and at the surrender of Appomattox and was mus- tered out at Alexandria, Virginia. His company distinguished themselves and lost the heaviest of any in the state. After the war Mr. Smaile emigrated to Iowa when that state was new, and six years later emigrated to Kansas, where he homesteaded land in Ottawa, just over the line from Cloud county, and ten miles southeast of Glasco, where they suffered many trials during the drouth and grasshopper years. He sold this farm two years later and after several removals located in Delphos in 1897, and in 1893 bought a residence property in Glasco, where he has since resided. Mr. Smaile is a native of the "Keystone" state, born in September, 1843- He is from a race of farmers. His father was Henry Smaile. The family HISTORY OF CLOUD COUKTY, KANSAS. 557 four generations removed were from Gemiany. His paternal grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier and died of small-pox on Lake Erie. Mr.. Smaile's mother was Sophronia McKessick, of Scotch-Irish origin. She was a native of Maine but reared in the state of Pennsylvania. His paraits died at the age of eighty years, respectively. Mr. Smaile went home from the war and began the battle of life with the woman who had prayed for his safe return. He was married in March, 1866, to Vallie Hutton, a daughter of John Grant, who was an own cousin of General Grant. Her maternal grandfather was a farmer, and died in Del- phos, Kansas, in December, 1892, at the age of one hundred and two years. He had received his second eyesight, was a remarkably well preserved man, possessed of a clear mind. Mrs. Smaile has his autograph written at the age of one hundred years. Her mother died April, 1901, at the age of eighty years. Mr. and Mrs. Smaile are the parents of four children : Minnie, wife of James Cobb, a farmer near Glasco; Nellie, an excellent dressmaker; Ida, wife of John Teasley, a farmer near Glasco, and Frank, who is interested in farming. Mr. Smaile votes the Republican ticket and is a justice of the peace. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic post of Glasco. The family are members and active workers in the Christian church. FERD PRINCE. Ferd Prince, the editor and publisher of the Glasco Sun, is a native of Wisconsin, born in 1857. After several removals during his youthful days, his father settled in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where Mr. Prince was educated in the high school and grew to manhood. He began life in the avocation of teaching school, but his career in this line was brief. One year later he came to Kansas and entered the State Normal School of Concordia for two terms, and in the spring of 1876 apprenticed himself as a printer in the Expositor offxe at Concordia, then endited by J. S. Paradis. One year later he filled the position of "devil" in the Empire office and a few months afterward was pro- moted to foreman, remaining in this capacity until the paper was sold to Honey & Davis in 1880. Mr. Prince then leased the jobbing department of the Blade, during J. M. Hagaman's reign, and in 1883 bought an interest in the Critic. The following August he became owner and publisher of the Glasco Sun. On January i, 1889, he sold this paper to Miss Kate Hubbard, and purchasing the Cawker City Journal, removed to that city and success- fully operated a paper there for a period of one year and three months. He then moved the plant to Concordia, where he started a paper under the name of Alliant, the first Alliance paper published in northern Kansas. In 1895 he returned to his farm near Glasco, a small tract of land which he had se- cured while a resident of that city. October i, 1899, Mr. Prince again assumed control of the Glasco Sun, buying the interest, of George Wright, and has- since operated that paper. The Glasco Sun is a local paper giving the general news and is non-partisan in politics. 558 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Prince was married in 1879 to ]\Iiss Delia A. Guffin, of Concordia. Her father was J. C. Guffin, an old resident of Concordia, locating there in 1872, and where Mrs. Prince finished her education in the State Normal School. She was a teacher one year before her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Prince four children have been born. Mr. Prince resides on his little farm one mile east of Glasco. He is a thorough horticulturist, has an irrigating plant in course of construction and raises some of the finest fruit in the country, including peaches, grapes, raspberries, etc. Mr. Prince's parents are old settlers of Cloud county, and live on a farm five miles northwest of Glasco. Mr. Prince is an only child. His paternal grandfather, while serving in the Revolutionary war, was taken prisoner and carried to England, with the choice of staying in prison or a voyage on a whaling vessel. He chose the latter and when the ship returned the war had ended. His ancestors were all seafaring men. — [Mr. Prince recently sold his interest in the Glasco Sun and has retired from newspaper work. He remains a citizen of Glasco, however, and is engaged in the con- fectionery and restaurant business. — Editor.] GEORGE A. WRIGHT. G. A. Wright located in Glasco in the spring of 1892. Prior to estab- lishing his present business he had charge of the tin and pump works in the hardware house of Day & VanLandingham. He subsequently bought and edited the Glasco Sun three years and three months, and sold to Ferd Prince. Mr. Wright made a financial success of the newspaper work in Glasco. He is a native of Chicago, born April 5, 1865. The Wrights were among the early settlers and homesteaded one mile northeast of Concordia, where they lived nearly twenty years. His father is W H. Wright, a farmer now living near the station of Rice. Mr. Wright began his career repairing sewing machines and organs. In 1885 he became associated with his father in the Cloud County Critic, afterward known as the Kansas Critic. This was their first newspaper expe^ rience, our subject and sister doing the mechanical work while his father and mother managed the editorial department. The paper was- reform in senti- ment and took up the Union Labor and Alliance movements and the result brought about in this part of the country was somewhat owing to their labors. Three years later they discontinued the paper and our subject moved the plant to Arkansas. Mr. Wright farmed that year and raised a big crOp of corn, but it only brought thirteen cents, and he became discouraged with farming and resumed newspaper work at Fairmount, Arkansas. Nine months later he moved to Hazen, where he edited the Hazen News and at the same time published a paper at Duvalls Bluff, the Prairie Gem, and later consolidated the two papers. Mr. Wright was married to Inez Burnett, a daughter of L. C. Burnett, of Glasco, in 1888. She came to Glasco with her parents in 1885. Was a HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 559 graduate of the Glasco school and taught one year. They are the parents of four daughters and one son: Edna, Leila, P.eth, Elsie and Ralph. Mr. Wright is a reformer in politics, not radical in his expressions, but lends his influence in that direction. He is a member of the Modern Woodmen of Glasco, the Fraternal Aid and the Knights of Pythias, and Mrs. Wright is a member of the Royal Neighbors and Fraternal Aid. Addenda: Since writing the above sketch Mr. Wright has again assumed control of the Glasco Sun. He bought the interest and good will of Ferd Prince and is publishing one of the best papers in Cloud county, de- voted solely to the interests of Glasco and the Solomon valley. Mr. Wright is a capable man and it is surprising that one of his talents in that direction should have suspended nev^fspaper work. His career in that line has been one of flattering success and his paper is receiving a large patronage, assur- ing him of good financial returns. Much of his success is due to the energy and ability of Mrs. Wright, to whom he has taught the mysteries of the art preservative, and who is capable of managing both the news and job depart- ments when the necessity presents itself. Being a fond mother, however, she prefers the home life to that of the more strenuous printing office. NICHOLS KLEIN. The subject of this sketch, Nichols Klein, is the owner and manager of the Oakes House, one of the best business properties in the city of Glasco. Mr. Klein is an old resident of Mitchell county, Kansas, having settled there in 1876 and was the first white proprietor of a barber shop in the city of Beloit, remaining there until 1901, when he purchased the hotel of Mr. and Mrs. Oakes, trading some good Beloit real estate in the transaction. Mr. Klein was born in the southern part of Germany in the year 1849. His boyhood days were spent on the farm in his native land, but when he reached the age of twenty-three years he started out to see something of the world and with his parents settled in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he learned the barber trade, became an adept tonsorial artist and has followed that occupation ever since. Mr. Klein's father emigrated west and died in Beloit. His mother was deceased in Ohio. Mr. Klein was married in 1878 to Mary Arnoldy, of Mitchell county, Kansas, where her father, Nichols Arnoldy, was an early settler and prom- inent citizen. He owned nine hundred and forty acres of land, part of which extended into Osborne county. Lie emigrated to Kansas in 1873 from Min- nesota, his former home, and where Mrs. Klein was born. He died in Downs in the year 1887, where he owned a hotel at the time of his death. Mrs. Klein is one of a family of ten children, five boys and five girls, all of whom are living. Three of her brothers are residents of California ; one of them being county attorney of Yuba county, California, and resides in Marys- ville. One brother is in Chicago, and another in Mitchell county, Kansas. Three of her sisters live near Tipton, Mitchell county, and one in California. 560 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mrs. Klein is an estimable woman and an indulgent mother, devoted to the welfare of her family. To Mr. and Mrs. Klein eight children have been born, viz : Anna, who was married about a year ago to John Smith, a young farmer of Mitchell county. Ella, the second daughter, assists in the duties of the hotel. Arnold and Leo are young men aged twenty and eighteen years, respectively. Fran- ces, Willie and Maxie attend the Glasco schools, and Marie, an interesting little girl of five summers, completes the family circle. Their family of children are Kansans, born, bred and educated in Beloit. Arnold, the eldest son, was a student for one year of St. Benedict's College at Atchison, Kan- sas. The family are members of the Catholic church. JOHN A. MA,^s[N. An old settler and progressive farmer of Cloud county is J. A. Mann, a native of Hawkins county, Tennessee, born in 1842. He is a son of McMinn and Elizabeth L. (Bradshaw) Mann, both of southern birth. His father was an extensive planter in Tennessee and Georgia, moving to the latter state when our subject was a small boy. The Mann" ancestry were of Scotch origin, emigrated to America, settled in Virginia in colonial times, and later removed to Tennessee. Mr. Mann's paternal grandfather was a soldier in the War of 1812. J. A. Mann is the eldest of a family of ten chil- dren, seven of whom are living, five in Kansas and the others have drifted to the far west. Mr. Mann was educated in the subscription schools of Georgia and in 1859 emigrated with his parents to Illinois, where he enlisted in the United States army, under Captain Carmichael of Grant's corps and McClelland's brigade. He served three years, and during that time participated in the battles of Fort Henry, Shiloh, Fort Donelson and many other engagements and skirmishes; came out with several bullet holes in his overcoat, but es- caped bodily injury. After the war Mr. Mann returned to his home in Illi- nois and in 1866, with his parents and two other families, emigrated to Kansas. They came overland with six wagons drawn by ox-teams and were six weeks making the trip. They arrived in July, the grass had been eaten down by the buffalo and was dry and sear, the country was new, the settlers far distant from one another and the prospect was very discouraging. The father's possessions were ten children and one hundred and fifty dollars in money. Mr. Mann had four hundred and fifty dollars. They both took up homesteads on Chriss creek, which takes its name from a man who took up school land at the mouth of that stream in i860. Air. Mann participated in several buffalo hunting expeditions. On one of these trips he started November 15, 1866, and was gone until Christmas, bringing back a wagon load of buffalo meat for his father's family. They killed sixty cows and brought home the hind quarters. They also suffered the loss of a yoke of oxen, which cost one hundred and fifty dollars, from HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 561 storm and starvation, on this expedition. On one trip to Chapman creek to mill he was delayed by a storm for three weeks, during which time the family lived on meat and hominy, having no flour to make bread. They had made a few improvements and were just getting in a condition where they could exist when the Indian troubles began and they were forced to abandon their home. In 1869 they returned and this year an abundant crop was raised. From this they began to prosper and in 1874 there was not a claim in the country unoccupied. Mr. Alann's father died in 1884 and his mother in 1889. Mr. Mann sold his homestead in 1887, moved to Oregon, bought a farm which he sold one year later, and then -returned to Kansas and purchased a farm three and one-half miles north of Glasco. His farm consists of two hundred and forty acres. Among other improvements there is a fine base- ment barn. His chief industry is wheat and stock raising. Mr. Mann and his family own a pleasant home in Glasco, where they now reside. Mr. Mann was married in 1871 to Permelia Snyder, a daughter of Captain Snyder, of Glasco. She was deceased in 1887, leaving seven chil- dren, five of whom are living, viz : Henry, foreman of a fine horse ranch near Portland, Oregon; Albert, pilot in the railroad yards in Kansas City; Lewis farms with his father; William, a farmer, and Hattie, a Cloud county teacher. Mr. Mann was married in 1888 to Ella, widow of James Axley, by whom she had two children, Myrtle and William. Mr. and Mrs. Mann are the parents of two bright little girls, Olive and Florence. Mr. Mann is a Republican in politics, and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fel- lows and Grand Army of the Republic. AUGUSTUS OTT. Augustus Ott, an old resident, leading merchant and representative cit- izen of Glasco, is a native of Stephenson county, Illinois, born in 1856. His parents are natives of Germany. Flis father emigrated to America when twenty-five years old and his mother at a youthful age. They are both living on a farm near Glasco and are aged respectively seventy-six and sixty-six years. Mr. and Mrs. Ott reared a remarkable family of fourteen children, all of whom are living and are useful men and women. Augustus Ott is the eldest child. Two brothers and one sister reside in Colorado City, Colorado, and one brother in Orange, California; the other members of the family reside in the vicinity of Glasco. Mr. Ott's early education was limited. He took a four-months' course in the Commercial College of Savannah, Mis- souri, taking a special course in penmanship. He is an expert and thorough penman and taught the Spencerian system for several years. There has been but little penmanship taught in Glasco except through his efforts. He conducted a private subscription school very successfully for a considerable length of time. • Mr. Ott emigrated with his parents from Illinois to Iowa, from there 562 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. to Missouri, and in 1878 he came to Glasco and entered the employ of Isaac Biggs, where he remained more than a year. In 1879 he succeeded Isaac Biggs as postmaster and served in this capacity for seven years; in the meantime with his brother George he estabHshed a small business under the firm name of A. Ott & Brother, grocers, and to meet the demand they estab- lished a jewelry shop in connection and employed a workman in that line. After his term as postmaster had expired they opened a general store, which they conducted until 1900, and then sold to Mr. Staley. During the finan- cial crisis, and owing to his brother signing a heavy bond, they virtually failed, but were appointed their own agents, and much to their credit, be it said, these honorable and enterprising men cleaned out and squared up every dollar of their indebtedness. His brother went west in search of health and our subject opened up a general store under the name of A. Ott in the La Rocque building, situated on the corner opposite the bank, where he is now located and has been very successful ever since. By his honest dealing he has built up one of the best mercantile houses in the city of Glasco. Mr. Ott was married in 1881 to Lucy H. Dalrymple, a daughter of H. H. and Mary (Conner) Dalrymple. The Dalrymples are of Scotch origin. Her father was born in Ohio and her mother in Indiana. The Conners emigrated from that state to Blue Ridge, Harrison county, Missouri. Mr. Dalrymple visited a sister who lived at Blue Ridge and while on this mis- sion met Mary Conner, whom he married in i860. The Conner's are of Irish origin several generations removed. One and one-half years later Mr. and Mrs. Dalrymple removed to Stark county, Illinois, and settled near Bradford. From this point he enlisted in the army at the beginning of the Civil war and served three years. At the end of that period he was dis- charged on account of disability, which resulted in his emigrating to the west. In 1865, with his wife and three children, he came to what is now Cloud coun- ty and took up a homestead on Second creek, where he lived until his death in 1879, his wife having preceded him two years. They experienced the same hardships that all the pioneers endured — Indians, drouth and grasshoppers. They were among the settlers who left their homes during the Indian uprisings and for over a year walked one and a half miles to the fort which the settlers had built for protection 'against the savages. During these primitive times they drove to Manhattan for flour and to Salina for groceries. The store building was a shanty con- structed from a few upright boards. These towns consisted of a few small houses of similar architecture interspersed with dugouts. During those times they did not dare make known they had provisions stored in their homes on account of the Indians, who would not leave without their share and to ofifset this trouble the settlers would make their beds on layers of flour and provisions in order to hide them from the penetrating eye of the sav- ages. When the Indians passed with Mrs. Morgan in captivity the settlers at the fort watched their movements through a spy glass and saw them stop at the Dalrymple claim presumably for something to eat. The two Dal- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 563 rymples, H. H. and his brother, were the only men in the fort one day among nine famihes of women and children. Mrs. Ott's father was on the outside when he saw the Indians coming and scaled the high wall of the stockade. His brother Isaac was in bed, jumped out in his night clothes, procured a gun and sallied forth just as tlie red skins were coming through the gate. He fired and killed one of their number and while the murderous band gathered around to carry him away, as is their custom, they closed the gates. The demons lingered near all day and in the meantime they passed the fort with their captive, Mrs. Morgan. One day Mrs. Ott and her brother were playing on the hill side near the house when three Indians rode up and attempted to capture them. They threw Mrs. Ott on a horse and proceeded to do likewise with the boy, but he fought and screamed until their uncleTsaac, who lived with them, heard his cries for help and came with his carbine and frightened them away. For several years her father plowed with his gun strapped to his person. In their first settlement on the frontier Mrs. Ott and her brother would often herd the buffalo off the fields as they would cattle. They lived in this lo- cality several years before a death occurred from natural causes. Her father's house was a small log building and served as a church for several years, services being held once a month with Alfred Stackhouse as minister. Prior to erecting their cabin they lived in a dugout about four years ; their beds were in tiers and were sort of swinging shelf one above the other. Mr. Dalrymple had shipped to the end of the railroad a car load of pro- visions and among other things some live hogs; they were red in color and had long snout's — the "razor back" quality — and were sent in first because that breed could subsist on prairie hay. Mrs. Ott remembers her father having sold one hog for seventy-five dollars. The event was impressed up- on her mind more forcibly perhaps because upon his return she was the re- cipient of a new dress and silver thimble. To Mr. and Mrs. Dalrymple seven children were born, all of whom are living. Lucy H., wife of A. Ott; James, a farmer of Solomon town.ship; Zorilda, wife of Dennis Hanchett, a farmer of Stark county, Illinois; Dora, wife of William Luckenbill, a far- mer of Rooks county, Kansas; Arthur, a farmer, now owns the old home- stead; Henry, of Boise City, Idaho, and Llerbert, living near Glasco, are both farmers. To Mr. and Mrs. Ott six children have been born, five of whom are living. Elma E., the eldest child was deceased July 11, 1883, at the age of one year and ten months. Those living are Mattie B., Roy H., Eva P., Homer M., and Lucy M. Mr. Ott is a Republican in politics. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Modern Woodmen and Fraternal Aid of Glasco. The family are members of the Presbyterian church. Mr. Ott is a good citizen and one who is always ready to advance the interests of his town or county. He began at the bottom of the ladder and has proven that when ones opportunities are not of the best everything is possible to him who possesses strength of character, push and integrity. 564 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. No man is more universally respected by his friends and fellow townsmen than Mr. Ott. Their pleasant, cheerful home is evidence of Mrs. Ott's re- fined nature and their family of bright children give promise of useful careers. OWEN DAY. Owen Day, one of the old residents of Cloud county, is a retired farmer and merchant. He was born in the little town of Warren, Marion county, Missouri, in 1841. His father, Thomas Day, was born in Ohio but reared in Virginia and emigrated to Missouri in 1839. He was born in 1801 and died in Marion county in 1855. He was a farmer and carpenter by occupa- tion. His mother, before her marriage in 1827, was Hannah Corder, bom and reared in Virginia. The Corders were among the colonists of that state and were slaveholders. Mr. Day's mother was born in 1809, married when but sixteen years of age and be- came the mother of fifteen children. She died in 1871. His parents were slavehold- ers and when the negroes were emancipated his mother read the proclama- tion and informed them they were free to either go or stay. But one of them departed, a voung negro woman, who returned ten days later. When Mr. Day, with his family, visited his old Missouri home fourteen years ago, their aged cook of slaverj^ times gave them a dinner. Mr. Day's ancestors were patriotic, two of his uncles serving in the War of 181 2, and his maternal grandfather in the War of the Revolution. Mr. Day had finished the common school course and had just entered upon high school work when the war was declared. His parents being slaveholders engendered in him a tendency or inclination to defend their property and in 1862 he enlisted in Captain Valentine's company of Porter's regiment, in the Confederate ranks. While in the enemy's line they were disbanded and with other comrades made their way south, under the protection of Quantrell, the noted guerrilla chieftain. Among Mr. Day's associates were Captain "Bill" Anderson and his brother "Jim," who were schoolmates of Mr. Day in Mis- souri. They were on the south side of the river and resorted to all manner of strategy to pass through the lines and over the Missouri. They stopped The Days' Pretty Cottage Home in Glasco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 565 over night at Roanoke with parties whom they had been referred to and pursued the journey the next morning, travehng toward the river during the night time, but before morning Mr. Day and his companion after crossing the river grew sleepy and fatigued and concluding to rest they tied their horses to a stack of oats and sought the inviting shelter of a hedge, where they slept soundly until sunrise, and upon awakening from their slumbers found themselves along side a public highway in imminent danger of falling into the enemy's hands. They met a brother Confederate, 'who assisted them in finding a boatman, who rowed them over the river, while their horses swam one on either side of the boat. Upon gaining the ranks they joined the command of Colonel Shelby. Mr. Day's two older brothers served in the southern army, the eldest responding to the first call. Mr. Day was among those who surrendered at Austin, Texas, August 5, 1865. He experienced his principal service through Arkansas, but also operated in Texas, Tennes- see and Louisiana. During the hostilities he was on five raids through Missouri and with Price in his expeditions. He participated in the battles of Helena and Little Rock, Arkansas, seven days' fighting with General Steele, Cape Girardeau, Marshall, Springfield, Missouri, and many other minor engagements. He was struck by a spent ball on the shoulder, but not seriously wounded. Mr. Day's mother was a woman of considerable courage and great nerve. Dur- ing the turbulent war times in Missouri, Colonel Glover and some of his men endeavored to force an entrance into their residence at an early hour before the household, including her daughters, had arisen. She refused them admittance until they could make their morning toilets, and while defending their honor a warm volley of wrathful words ensued; Colonel Glover called her a liar and she in return gave him a violent slap in the face. After the war Mr. Day settled at his old home, but one year later located south of the Missouri river. In 1872 he was married to Amanda VanLand- ingham and the same day started overland in a "prairie schooner" bound for Kansas, and located on the land he had homesteaded the year prior, five and one-half miles northwest of Glasco, where they lived until the autumn of 1886, when he sold, and, becoming associated with J. R. Fuller in the hardware business, moved his family into Glasco. One year later Mr. Fuller sold his interest to G. B. VanLandingham and the firm continued until the autumn of 1894, when Mr. VanLandingham retired and the firm became Day & Day, the partner being the son, Samuel T. They conducted a success- ful hardware business until 1900 and were succeeded by T. W. Nicol. Mr. Day was appointed postmaster, under Cleveland's second administration, and served a little more than four years. He- has been trustee of his town- ship, a member of the school board for several years, a justice of the peace, and is a notary public. Mr. and Mrs. Day are the parents of one son and two daughters. Sam- uel T. is a graduate of the Glasco common school and was a student for one year of William Jewell College at Liberty, Missouri, one of the best institu- S66 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tions in that state. He was married in 1898 to Miss Bessie Miller, of Lib- erty, who is a daughter of Robert Miller, the founder of the Liberty Journal and a prominent journalist for many years. Her mother's people, the Wil- sons, are a family of politicians and prominent people. Her grandfather was a noted general in the Confederate army. Samuel T. and wife are the par- ents of two children, Roger Owen, aged two years, and an infant. Estelle B. is the wife of Sherman Truex, whose parents were among the old settlers of Ottawa county; their residence is Delphos. Mrs. Truex passed the exam- ination and finished -the high school course of Glasco. Leta Catherine is a graduate of the Glasco high school, and in 1901 graduated from the Linds- borg College, in music and elocution. She has special talent and is a success- ful teacher in music. Mr. Day is a member of the Ancient Order United Workmen Lodge at Delphos. He is a Modern Woodmen and an honorary member of the Fra- ternal Aid. The Days have one of the neatest and most tasteful cottage homes in Glasco, made particularly charming by a bower of fine evergreens and other trees. Mr. Day is a good citizen, and though once a southern sym- pathizer heartily affiliates with the people of his adopted home. Is one of them politically and socially and no one enjoys a larger circle of friends than he and his estimable family. Mrs. Day is a woman of culture and the daughters are accomplished and possessed of many personal charms. HISTORY OF THE DAVIDSONS OF GLASCO. The lives of the Davidsons have been so interwoven with the history of the Solomon valley that to know one is to know the other. Of the older Davidson families there are two brothers, Garrett and E. C. They are the sons of Levi and Charity (Handley) Davidson. Levi Davidson was a farmer. He died in 1880. The mother died in 1853. The paternal grandfather was Genaja Davidson who was a soldier in the Revolutionary war at the age of twelve years. He married and emi- grated to Kentucky in the early settlement of that state and was twice cap- tured by the Indians. The last time, he had started out for an arm full of wood when he was seized by the savages and carried away. His wife did not know his fate and had not received a word from him until he returned seven years later carrying an arm full of wood which he said was the one he had started for when captured. After demonstrating to the Indians that he was a good shot and lucky huntsman, they treated him well, as he made a "good Injun." Another man was taken prisoner about the same time who did not have the strength to keep up in the tramp and dropped l^ack. His fate was never known, but in all probability he was tomahawked. Ganaja Davidson moved to McCordsville, Indiana where he died. The maternal grandfather. Lieutenant Handlev was a native of Connecticut. He The Home of Garret Davidson, as Portrayed by Mr. Bond of the "Glasco Sun." [The picture from which the engraving is made was executed twenty years ago, and before the erection of Mr. Davidson's new barn. The log house to the left is their first Kansas residence.] HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 569 emigrated to Ohio in an early day and located in Perry county, near Colum- bus, where Charity Handley Davidson was born. He was a Lieutenant in the war of 1812. GARRETT DAVIDSON. Careful speculation, good judgment and close apphcation to his busi- ness interests have made Garrett Davidson the Croesus of Cloud county Mr. and Mrs. Garrett Davidson. The Dog is One of Mr. Davidson's Favorite Canines and the Mother of His Entire Kennel of Greyhounds. and he is still active on a business career. He had acquired a good start before coming to Kansas but earned every dollar of his belongings through his own personal efforts. He possessed an indomitable will, pushed west- ward and soon occupied a foremost place among the moneyed men of Cloud county. He has built up a competency on the foundation he laid early In his 34 570 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. career and may still be considered in the prime of life. Like his brother E. C he is fond of the chase and the music of his hounds has made merry many a chase for the running to earth of the yelping coyote. Mr. D.avidson is a native of Ohio, born May 2, 1841, in the town of Dubhn, built on the old lime stone rocks of Franklin county, Ohio. His mother having died when he was twelve years of age, he worked for a cousin several years for his board and clothes. He then started out to make the record herein recorded. He had received but a few months schooling during the winter months for as soon as the sugar making season arrived, both teacher and pupils ad- journed from the old log school house to assist at the sugar camps. Mr. Davidson's career began by working on a farm at $11 per month. His duties consisted of clearing ground, picking up chunks from the newly made fields, and farming. His first worldly possession was a young horse pur- chased in exchange for three months labor plus $1, which he invested in a straw hat and a pair of overalls. The following year he earned enough to l)uy a $40 colt and then rustled and skirmished around until he purchased a wagon. His next project was to rent a farm in Madison county, Ohio. From this date he began to accumulate, the origin of his present financial standing. In 1862, he drove a team down into Lexington, Kentucky, then a wintering quarter for horses and troops, furnishing rations and feed. In 1863, he moved to Illinois, where he bought sixty acres of land three miles distant from Bushnell. In 1865, he enlisted in Company C, 151st Illinois Volunteers. His company did not see active service but went as far south as Kingston, Georgia, where they guarded the railroad and scouted around on dark nights over the corduroy roads. After being discharged at Springfield, Ilhnois, he returned home and resumed his farming opera- tions. Mr. Davidson is a man of keen perception and foresight and this coup- led with his energy has made him prosperous in every undertaking. He en- gaged in buying, feeding and selling stock on his farm in Illinois and ac- quired a good start before coming west. In 1874, he emigrated to Cloud county and bought the D. W. Teasley homestead relinquishment, paying $1,000. About one year later he bought eighty acres of the Edwards home- stead and shortly afterward the "Goddard eighty." In 1880, he purchased the Capt. Snyder farm and forty acres of school land on the Solomon river; in 1896, seventy-five acres of the Bond estate; in 1897, he bought a half section of State land from Samuel Beard and the "Samuel Fuller home- stead," one of the best farms on the Solomon river; in 1898, the two hundred and twenty acres of land sold at administrator's sale to settle up the Hos- tetler estate. Nearly all of his farms are bottom land. Stock raising and feeding cattle and hogs has been Mr. Davidson's strong point. He keeps a herd of about one hundred high grade cattle and one hundred head of hogs, This year (1901) he is feeding ground wheat to his cattle as an experiment. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS.. 573 The proportion is one-third com, two-tliirds wheat ground and mixed. He raises wheat extensively and has never had an entire failure. Several seasons his land has produced forty bushels per acre. Mr. Davidson was one of the first growers of alfalfa in the neighbor- hood, and sowed it as an experiment. One year he sold $i,ooo worth of seed. In 1901, from twenty-two acres there was a yield of one hundred and three bushels of seed and ninety-two tons of hay, and this one of the dryest years ever known in Kansas. The one hundred and three bushels of seed at $5 per bushel netted him $515; the ninety-two tons of hay at $7 per ton netted him $644, a total of $1,159 thus being produced from twenty-two acres of alfalfa. He has a fine producing apple orchard of about two hundred trees and a considerable number of peach trees which yield well. When Mr. Davidson bought the Teasley homestead there were but few improvements, a small cabin, a shed and corral. In 1875, he built a large stone residence situated in a grove of tall cottonwoods set out by him- self and Mrs. Davidson. The lumber for this residence was hauled from Clay Center via Concordia. In 1892 he built a barn 50x96 feet, the first commodious barn built in the neighborhood. Mrs. Davidson before her marriage was Catherine Gross, a daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Cargy) Gross, of Ohio, near the city of Columbus, where Mrs. Davidson was born and grew to womanhood. Her father died when she was eight years of age and her mother died in 1898, at the age of ninety-three years. Mrs. Davidson is one of ten children, three of whom are living : a sister, Sarah, the wife of Levi Cooper, a farmer of Solomon township, and a brother James, a farmer living in Indiana. Mrs. Davidson had three brothers in the war, who enlisted from their Ohio home. They died from illness contracted during the service. Mrs. Davidson is a true helpmate and is entitled to much of the credit for her husband's prosperity. She is a true patriot of Kansas now, but in the early days would watch the emigrants coming in and weep for her eastern home. Politically Mr. Davidson is a Populist. In 1889, he was elected county commissioner on the Democratic ticket, which showed his popularity, as at that time his district was very strong in its Republican majority. Mr. Davidson was practically the banking firm of the Glasco community for many years, making it possible for many of his neighbors to buy more land or for some man to increase his business capital by a loan. He never oppressed a debtor, nor forced the payment, allowing all the time required for paying the loan; thus his wealth has made him a public benefactor. EZEKIAL CALVIN DAVIDSON. E. C. Davidson, the subject of this sketch, has gained a record in the Solomon valley for the perserverance, pluck and courage with which he bore the hardships incident to building a home on the frontier. But the spirit 574 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. which led him to the new West _served him through a long seige of toil,- disappointments, failures, droutlis and grasshoppers. Though not the fir.st to pitch his tent in the undeveloped country, E. C. Davidson was early on the ground, and his lands to-day bear little resemblance to the government claim he secured in 1869. The handsome and commodious residence has long since been substi- tuted for the dugout or cabin of primitive days. His herds of fine bred cattle have supplanted the horned Texas steer and the poorly constructed stables have given way to the immense bank barn that is filled to the rafters with the sweet scented alfalfa and golden grain. In fact, everything has been transformed from a mere prairie claim to a well tilled and imj^roved farm. E. C. Davidson is. a native of Franklin County, Ohio, born in 1847., When sixteen years of age he came with his frother, Garrett, to Illinois, and settled on a farm near Bushnell, where he lived seven years. In 1869, he came to Kansas and rented land in ^Vashing■ton county for one year, in the meantime coming to Cloud and selecting a homestead, his present country place. He was married in 1870, to Anna Franks, whose parents were early settlers in Kansas. Mr. Davidson started in life Avith practically none of this \vorld's goods, but he secured a wife who has very materially assisted in gaining the competency they now enjoy. She shared nobly the trying ordeals of the early settlers' wives and is his better half in the truest sense of the word. They adapted themselves to circumstances, and their little cr^bin was polished with content, happy in their dreams of the future. AMiile their larder was sometimes lacking in variety, there was never a scarcity of meat. Mr. Davidsori was a typical frontiersman, fond of the hunt, and his trusty rifle has been the means of bringing about many a rq>ast fit for the gods. Buffalo and antelope were plentiful, with droves of wild turkeys and flocks of prairie chicken and ciuail. He brought in game by the wagon load. He was also fond of the chase and retains a special weakness in this direction, keeping a kennel of dogs for this pastime. He has quite an interesting collection of coyote, fox and jackrabbit trophies. However, he is a thorough agriculturist, taking great pride in his crops of wheat and alfalfa. This year (1901) he has two hundred tons of hay in his barn. The yield from this alfalfa ground netted hini $50 per acre. He has been feeding and shipping cattle for more than 'fifteen years, which was the beginning of his prosperity. He is a Short Horn breeder and has one hundred and fifty head of fine cattle. He has just completed one of the most perfectly planned feeding barns in this or any other country. Its dimensions are 43x64 feet, with a basement. He constructed another large barn 64x64 feet, in 1889. To Mr. Davidson belongs the distinction of hauling the first building material that went into the present town of Beloit, which is in all probability The E. C. Davidson Country Home. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 575 a bit of hitherto unwritten history. When making his second trip from Wash- mgton county to the Solomon valley, he was accosted by a citizen of Abilene, who asked his destination. Upon being told it was Glasco, he said he had some lumber he wanted hauled to Willow Springs, ■ (now Beloit) and offered five dollars for the transportation of it to that place. This was May 5, 1870, and the lumber was for a Mr. Elliott, who built the first shanty on the town site. Mr. Davidson relates many interesting reminisences of pioneer times, buffalo hunts, etc., some of them appearing elsewhere on these pages. It was several years before the Davidsons' began to prosper or even possessed a cow. The new comers were handicapped in so many ways they could not progress rapidly. Again, after raising the grain there was no market nearer than Clay Center. He says on one occasion he hauled a load of rye to that town, which required three days time, receiving but twenty-five cents per bushel He has always raised hogs and got his start in this industry by deliver- ing fourteen bushels of corn to Matt Wilcox in exchange for two Chester White pigs. It took Mr. Davidson a dozen years or more to put his land under cultivation. His efforts were retarded because he did not have suf- ficient teams or grain to feed them. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson h.ave an interesting family of three sons and one daughter, who are all useful members of society, viz: William (see sketch), Lorean, (see sketch) ; Retta, the only daughter is an accomplished young lady. She is a student of Lindsborg College, where she is taking a special course in music. She is a graduate of the Glasco high school and on her third year of the college course. Joseph N. graduated from the Glasco high school and is a law student in the Kansas State University. Mr. Davidson is a Democrat in politics and is a member of the order of I. O. O. F., of Glasco lodge. WILLIAM DAVIDSON. The subject of this sketch, William Davidson, is the eldest of E. C. David- son's family. He was one of the first white children born in the Solomon valley and is loyal to the place of his nativity. He was born June 3, 1871, on the old homestead, where he grew to manhood. He was educated in district No. 58. He farmed with his father until 1897, when he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land known as the Cal Lawrence home- stead. Mr. Davidson remembers when the Solomon A^alley was one vast prairie covered with the big stem blue grass and when there were neither fences nor trees. Born in a dugout, he grew up with the prosperity of his native state. He also recalls "hiding out" from the savages, who fortun- ately turned out to be emigrants in search of homes in the far ^^'est. "Wid," as he is called, is a big hearted fellow who never seems to get 576 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tired and is a hustler without limit; another one of those typical hale-fellow- well-met western men, whose hospitality is proverbial. He owns one of the good farms of the Solomon valley, adjoining his father's land, which is rapidly undergoing improvement. Their residence is a neat cottage home. His family consists of a wife and two bright little children, a daughter and a son; Vera, aged five, and Bryan R. aged three. Mrs. Davidson was Arvilla Williamson, a daughter 'of Enoch Williamson, (see sketch.) She is a women of refined tastes and matron over the domestic affairs of t' =; farm. They were married in 1892. Mr. Davidson has just finished a large and substantial barn which, standing as it does on a prominence of ground, can be seen for miles aroui [ the country. It is a basement bank barn lifty-four by thirty-six feet in c mensions. In seeking for water Mr. Davidson met wnth rather a stran ; phenomenon. He bored down seventy-five feet and struck a vein of strong salt water. A few feet to the west of this he bored down with a com- mon post auger and struck water at the depth of eighteen feet, which is of a fine quality and quantity, supplying water sufficient for all his stock. He keeps about twenty-five head of cattle and raises hogs, but his chief industry is wheat growing. Politically he is a Democrat. He is a member of the i. O. O. F. and A. O. U. W. lodges at Glasco. HONORABLE LOREAN FOREST DAVIDSON. The Davidson Hardware company is not a corporation. It is the style under which E. C. Davidson and his sons L. F. and J. M. conduct business. They represent one of the leading firms of the city of Glasco and have contributed very liberally to the town's prosperity. L. F. Davidson is at the head of the management. His business sagacity coupled with his pleasing and cordial manner make him as popular as he -is prominent. He has been reared in the Solomon valley and inherits the dauntless spirit of his father. When this company organized in 1897, its assets consisted of $2,000 and its stock was principally farm implements. Their place of business was a basement room. In the autumn of 1898, they purchased the Geiger stock of hardware, also the building they now occupy, known as the Glasco State Bank build- ing, a large stone structure fifty-two by eighty feet in dimension and two stories in height. The front rooms on the second floor are occupied as of- fices and the rear is fitted up for an opera house. They now have in course of erection another building adjoining the one they already have and occu- pied by their stock of hardware. It is of stone, forty-six by one hundred and fifteen feet, and two stories in height. It is to be used for a wagon, carriage and implement house to their rapidly increasing business. The second floor will have a row of offices in the front, something much needed in Glasco, for there are few available office rooms in the city. Their^build- ings are lighted by acetelyne gas from their individual plant. The Block Occupied by the Davidson Hardware Company in Glasco. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 579 In 1899, this firm increased their capital stock to $9,000. Their pres- ent stock wil! invoice about $12,000. Their first year's sales were $11,000, the second year's sales $25,000 and the present year (1901) $80,000. They sold a total of nine threshing outfits the season just ending; of these they sold three in one day and drove eighty-two miles. In the three years they have been in business they have disposed of one hundred and twenty-one Champion harvesters which netted a total of $17,725. In 1900, they sold two car-loads of buggies and the present year, three car-loads, and one car- load of wagons, with three car-loads of Fuller Lee Havana drills. They carry in stock a full line of shelf hardware, tinware, cutlery, paints and oils. Being amply snpphed with capital this company buys di- rect from ihe manufacturers in large quantities, and practically controls the sale in the Solomon valley, transacting an enormous business. Mr. Davidson was one of the fifty-five hardware men of Kansas that were recently so royally entertained by the Avery Manufacturing company of Peoria, Illinois. The keys of the city were given them, they were badged and everything they demanded was forthcoming. Mr. Davidson was bom on the old homestead in 1874. He received his early education in district fifty-eight and the graded schools of Glasco, followed by a course in the Ottawa University. After leaving that distinguished seat of learning he taught a few terms of school very successfully, but was destined for a busi- ness career rather than that of an educator. He was married in 1898, to Sadie Burnett, who was a Cloud county teacher. She is a daughter of L. C. Burnett, dealer in general merchandise and one of Glasco's old residents and highly respected citizens. Mrs. Davidson is a cultured woman of literary tastes and considerable musical talent. The walls of their home, resound to the laughter and frolic of two children; Keith Bruce, a little fellow of two years and Fay lima. Mr. Davidson is a Populist in politics but the kind that counts his friends among the ranks of all parties. He was mayor of the city of Glasco in 1900-01 and performed the duties of that office with dignity and credit. He is prominent in lodge work and is a member of the following orders r Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Woodmen, and Knights of Pythias. He is council in the camp of Wood- men order, and holds the ofifice of chancellor in the Knights of Pythias. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson are members of the Baptist and Christian churches re- spectively. MRS. CATHERINE HUBBARD. Mrs. Catherine Hubbard, widow of the late Thomas Storm Hubbard, who was one of Glasco's most eminent citizens, is a native of Reading, Pennsylvania, born in 1818. She is the daughter of Charles Kessler, a native of Germany, who came to America in about 1800, and settled in Reading, Pennsylvania, where he edited one of the first papers circulated 580 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in that city, Tlie Reading Eagle, which is still published by descendants of the Hubbard family. When Mrs. Hubbard was eighteen years of age she came with a younger sister to Cleveland, Ohio, and in 1837, just after the Black Hawk war, to Dixon county, Illinois, then on the frontier. Here she met and mar- ried Mr. Hubbard, who was born in the city of New York in 1815, and lived there until about twenty-five years of age. In 1837, he emigrated to Dixon county, Illinois, where he took up go\^ernment land. In 1840, he emigrated further west, beyond the frontier into the wilderness of Iowa, among the Indians and buffalo. In 1879, they came to Cloud county, and bought the Whitebread homestead, where they built one of the best homes in the community. Mr. Hubbard, who died in February, 1899, in his eighty-fifth year, was a very remarkably well preserved man, retaining all his faculties. He was a man thoroughly posted on politics, took an ardent interest in all political affairs and was public spirited and enterprising. To Mr. and Mrs. Hul)bard four children have been born, two sons and two daughters ; Catherine, who lives at home with her mother, was editress of the Glasco Sun from 1888 until 1S93; she had previously worked in the office; in her earlier life she was a .school teacher. Victor operates the farm; Florence, wife of John Lawrence, a farmer near Dixon, Illinois; Charles, whose wife was Ad^argaret Sutton, a sister of Mrs. Lon Ainsworth. Their residence is Denver, Colorado. Mrs. Hubbard's farm consists of one hundred and twenty acres. In connection with their residence is a handsome lawn with many beautiful flowers and shrubs, surrounded by a fine avenue of cedars, which they have set out and witnessed the growth of. They have planted and distributed more flowers perhaps than any one in the vicinity of Glasco. WILLIAM BROWN NEWTOX, M. D. The opportunity which Kansas offers to young men of resolute charac- ter is exemplified in the brief but successful career of Doctor Newton, of Glasco, one of the rising physicians of Cloud county. He was born in the state of Iowa, in 1877, but was reared on a farm near Glasco and received his elementary education in the Bethel district school and the graded schools of Glasco, and entered upon a career of teaching more as a stepping stone to his profession than with an idea of pursuing that vocation. Doctor Newton is entirely a self made man; he has derived the best possible results from the excellejit talents with which nature endowed him and his success is more noticeable and praiseworthy because of the hmited opportunities afforded him, for the training and assistance, which are oft- tiines considered indispensable when entering upon a career in the pro- fessional world. He early learned self reliance, also to be judicioiis, and these qualities have been leading factors in his' character. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 581 In April 1896, he began the study of medicine in the office of Doctor Priest, of Concordia, and t\\o years later entered upon a course of medicine in the Central Medical college, of St. Joseph, Missouri, where he was also surgeon in the St. Joseph Sisters Hospital for two years. He graduated in the spring of 1900 and began the practice of medicine in Glasco. In the autumn of 1900 he entered upon a post-graduate course of medicine In the University of Nashville, Tennessee, graduating in March 1901. Doctor Newton then located permanently in Glasco where his practice is steadily increasing, and it may safely be said the future years hold for him profes- sional honors as well as a high rank among the citizens of his town and the universal regard of his friends and acquaintances. Doctor Newton was married May 22d, 1901, to Miss Emma Delaplain, a cultured and estimable woman; she is a sister of Mrs. Judy and Mrs. Kelley, of Concordia, where Mrs. Newton has practically been reared. Doctor Newton is a Republican in politics ; fraternally he is an Odd Fellow ; a member of the Maccabees of Concordia; the National Aid Association; Ancient Order of United Workman; Ancient Order of Pyramids; Modern Woodmen of America, and Royal Neighbors of America. JOHN H. MOGER. The subject of this sketch is J. H. Moger, a liveryman of Glasco, an old timer and one of the organizers of Oakland township, which was formerly part of Meredith, where he used his homestead right, and lived on the east branch of Pipe creek until the year 1893. Until this date he had always been a farmer except the three years he worked in the service of "Uncle Sam," He was a member of the First Brigade First Division of the Fifteenth Corps of the Army of the Tennessee, under command of that illustrious old war horse, John A. Logan, or "Black Jack," as he was familiarly known to the soldiers. Mr. Moger enlisted August 2, 1862, in the Thirty-first Iowa Volun- teer Infantry, Company D, under Colonel Smith, who was succeeded b\' Colonel Jerry Jenkins. They operated in the west and down the Mississippi to Vicksburg and with Sherman on his famous march to the sea. He was a par- ticipant in the historical battles of Lookout Mountain, Missionary Ridge, Atlanta, siege of Vicksburg and many other important engagements. After the war he settled in Iowa, where he farmed until 1873. Mr. Moger is a native of Rockford, Illinois, born November 21, 1843. He is a son of J. J. and C. C. (Sheppard) Moger. His father, a farmer by occupation, was born in the state of Pennsylvania in 1812. The Mogers are of French origin and the original name was spelled Mojer. There was a Moger estate in England said to represent several millions of dollars. A brother started for England on a tour of investigation and was lost in a ship- wreck at sea. The Mogers originally came from France to England. J. J. Moger moved from Pennsylvania to New York, where his brothers operated a line of boats on the Erie canal. In 1841 he emigrated to Illinois, where he 582 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. died in 1888, at the age of seventy-five years. Mr. Moger's mother died at the home of her son James Moger in Ottawa county, in 1897, at the age of eighty-five years. Mr. [Nloger is one of five children, four sons and one daughter. Sarah Ellen, wife of Jacob Kirby, a farmer of Ottawa county, Kansas; Charles A., whom Mr. Moger had not seen since 1866, died near Bozeman City, Montana; he was a confectioner; Edward, a farmer and stone mason, of Iowa; James F., recently of Ottawa county, Kansas, now a farmer near Spring Water, Oregon. In 1893 Mr. Moger moved to Minneapolis, Kansas, where he engaged in the livery and hotel bvisiness. Though these were hard years — 1893-4-5 — he was fairly successful. At the end of that period he came to Glasco, formed a partnership with Ed. Oakes, his son-in-law, and assumed charge of the Spaulding Hotel, ^^ith a livery in connection. In 1900 Mr. Oakes sold .his interest in the livery to Dick Wood. Mr. Moger retired from the hotel and the following July became sole proprietor of the livery and has built up a pay- ing business. Mr. Moger was married October 3, 1867, to Susan Rosetta Robinson, a native of Spencer, New ^! ork. The Robinsons emigrated to Illinois and set- tled in DeKalb county and subsequently Iowa, where she met and married Mr. Moger. Mr. and Mrs. Moger are the parents of six daughters. The two eldest children were born in Iowa, and the four younger daughters in Kansas. Hattie, wife of S. A. Barnes, a farmer near Clifton, Washington county, Kansas; Lenora, wife of Ed. Oakes (see sketch) ; Ella, wife of Frank Morey, a liveryman of Clay Center, Kansas ; Alma, wife of George Pagan, a farmer of Ottawa county, but for several years a liveryman, located in Min- neapolis, Kansas; Edna Celestia, on last year's course in the high school of Glasco, and Millie Philancie, aged fourteen. Mr. Moger votes the straight Republican ticket. He served as deputy sheriff, under Ed. Marshall, two years, has filled various township offices and has been a member of the school board. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Rquiblic post, of Minneapolis, and the Knights and Ladies of Secur- ity, Minneapolis lodge. \^TLLIAM EDWARD OAKES. The subject of this sketch is W. E. Oakes, who, until the fall of 1901, was for years a resident of Cloud county. He began a business career with seventy-five dollars in his pocket and if not mistaken the author believes Mr. Oakes reported ha^-ing even borrowed that capital; but a more willing pair of hands and a more industrious nature to assist in the struggle for fortune and fame could not present themselves than in the person of Mr. Oakes. Mr. Oakes and his wife were much needed factors in the hotel at Glasco and their removal was severely felt by the residents of that little city. Under their control it was converted into one of the neatest and most desirable hotels in the county. When this property came into their hands it was badly in need HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 583 of repairs and they remodeled, refurnished and transformed it into a hotel which received a patronage consistent with its management. Shelby county, Missouri, is the birthplace of Mr. Oakes. He was born in 1869. His parents are Emery and Hester (Short) Oakes. His father was born in Vermont, but was reared in the states of Michigan and Iowa. His parents having died when he was a boy, he drifted about considerable. In 1879 he emigrated to Decatur county, Kansas, where he homesteaded land. In 1882 removed to Cloud county and bought land near Miltonvale. In 1893 became a resident of Oklahoma, where he now lives on a farm. Mr. Oakes' mother was of Kentucky parentage and German origin. Her father was a Methodist Episcopal minister, and two of her brothers were clergymen. One brother, John Short, is an ex-sherifT of Decatur county, Kansas. Hon. R. O. Elting, the representative of Ness county, is a brother-in-law. She was previously married to Al journal Vaniver, a soldier of the Civil war, who was massacred by Quantrell's band at Centralia, Missouri, while the troops were en route home. There were two children by her first marriage, a son and daughter. The son, Marion McClelland, was deceased from lead poisoning in 1887, while working in the lead mines. Laura Virginia is the wife of Madison Warring, superintendent of a street railway at Seattle, Washington. Mr. Oakes is the eldest child of his mother's second marriage. The other children are: George W., a miner of McAlester, Indian territory; Charles Oscar, a successful stockman and speculator of McLoud, Oklahoma; Mary Ellen, wife of Richard Lyon, an Englishman and wealthy farmer, owning land and stock in Kansas and Oklahoma; John Wesley, an extensive farmer near McLoud, Oklahoma ; Alice Dora, a young woman at home, is a grad- uate from the Clay Center high school ; the youngest child is a son, Alfred Emery. Mr. Oakes's father served "Uncle Sam" with the Third Missouri Cavalry, Company T, under General Steele. He was the regimental black- smith and served three years and eight months. Mr. Oakes received a good common education in the s'chools of Mis- souri and Kansas. He entered upon a career for himself at the age of ten, experiencing the seamy side of life for several years. His father after hav- ing lived in western Kansas was in limited circumstances, and he contributed a part of his earnings to the family. In 1889 he worked in the round house and Burlington & Missouri yards at Denver, and for a brief time was brake- man on the road. In 1892 he returned to Kansas and the following April was married to Miss Lenora Moger, a daughter of John Moger, of Glas'co (see sketch). This prosperous and happy couple embarked on the sea of matrimony with none of this world's goods, but their perseverance and good management have been rewarded by a handsome competency. They are both endowed with the qualities essential to success in life. The first year after their mar- riage Mr. Oakes rented two hundred acres of land and was thwarted in this undertaking by a failure of crops. 584 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. At the opening of the Strip in 1893 he went to Oklahoma, took up a claim and the following spring moved his family there, remaining until the autumn of 1896. With eighty-five dollars he came to Glasco and in partner- ship with his father-in-law established a livery stable, tinder the firm name of Moger & Oakes, which was the starting point of a turn in his fortunes. January 16, 1897, the firm leased the Spaulding House. One year later Mr. Moger withdrew and Mr. Oakes assumed full control. The hotel was scant- ily furnished but imder his management was put in good and comfortable con- dition. During the summer of 1897 Mr. Oakes secured a position with the Deering Implement Company, working in Oklahoma and holding down his claim, proving up on it that autumn, and rented the land. His share of wheat the first year was twenty-three hundred bushels, which averaged seventh- five cents to the bushel. In 1894 this ground threshed out forty-two bushels to the acre and the following year he had a yield of from twenty-eight to thirty bushels per acre. He rented three years ; each of them were fruitful seasons. In 1899 he sold the livery business. The following year he sold his farm and purchased the hotel property, in the meantime continuing on the road selling machinery. Mrs. Oakes superintended the hotel operations, building up a substantial trade and making it a financial success. They made many improvements in the hotel, refurnishing, painting and papering the interior, and a large veranda added greatly to the comfort of their guests. In April, 1901, they sold this valuable property to Nick Klein, of Beloit. Mr. Oakes bought the building for a consideration of one thousand dollars, expended about twelve hundred dollars in repairs and sold for forty-eight hundred dollars. The family then moved to Beloit with the intention of mak- ing that pretty little city their permanent home. But Mr. Oakes had oppor- tunities presented whereby he would be remunerated for making a change, hence he sold his handsome home in Beloit and settled near Walter, Okla- homa, where he bought a claim and after he has secured a title will in all probability make a home in Walter or some nearby town. The Oakes home is blessed with two interesting children, a son and a daughter : Lawrence LeRoy, a manly little fellow, aged eight years, and Statia Pauline, a bright little girl, aged six. By the removal of Mr. and Mrs. Oakes, Glasco lost two of her most useful and highly esteemed citizens, who, by their enterprise and natural ability, had drawn around them a circle of warm friends. They had a hard struggle the first few years of their mar- ried life and fully deserve all the future promises them. MORTIMER L. WOODWARD. M. L. Woodward, an old resident of Cloud county, now living in Glasco, is a native of Coshocton county, Ohio, born December 25, 1839. His par- ents were Mahlon and Mary A. (Darby) Woodward, both natives of Mary- land, who emigrated to Ohio in an early day and on to Iowa in the early set- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 585 tlement of that state. His father was a farmer and homesteaded in Cloud county, near Glasco, in 1871, and where he died in 1891. The Woodwards were of French origin. The Darbys were southern people. The Darby an- cestors were among the early settlers of Virginia, near Alexandria, and were slaveholders. Mr. Woodward is one of ten children, seven of whom are living. Mrs. George W. Bartow, of Lyon township, is a sister, and Rezin D. Woodward, a farmer near Clyde, is a brother. Mr. Woodward began his career as a farmer and came to Kansas in May, 1870. After a sojourn of a few months in Washington county, took up a homestead, the farm where Michael Dillon now lives. He lived on this homestead sixteen years and changed Jiis residence to Glasco. Mr. Wood- ward, with two of his brothers, enlisted in the army. Mr. Woodward en- listed in the Forty-fourth Iowa Infantry, Company G, under Captain Shaw and Colonel Henderson, the latter a brother of the speaker of the house of representatives. He enlisted in March, 1864, and served one year. Most of the time they were quartered in Mississippi and Tennessee, doing guard duty. His brother, Rezin, of Company I, Fourteenth Iowa Infantry, was wounded at Fort Donelson, disabled for service and discharged. James was a mem- ber of the Third Iowa Infantry. He entered at the first call and served until the last. Mr. Woodward was married December 6, 1871, to Sarah Lavinia Jor- dan. To Mr. and Mrs. Woodward have been born seven children, six of whom are living, viz : Allie L. has been a Cloud county teacher for about eight years. She is now. employed in the LaVeta (Colorado) public schools. She graduated from the Glasco graded school in 1894, and afterward took a teacher's course in the Salina Normal. She has literary tastes, is poetically inclined and finds inspiration in the mountains of Colorado. Nelie is a suc- cessful Cloud county teacher now employed in District No. 6. She is a graduate of the Glasco school and was a student of the Salina Normal in 1901. She is talented in music and has been organist of the Christian church in Glasco for several years. Myrtella has been engaged in teaching six years. She is now employed in District No. 93, near Concordia. She is a graduate of the Glasco schools. Orpha is one of the most successful teachers in the county. She is now employed at Superior, District No. 100, one of the best schools in the county. The first month her school made an attendance of 99.8; the enrollment is thirty. She is a graduate of the Glasco high school of the class of 1899. I" 1900 she graduated from the Baker Academy and took part of a year in the freshman course of Bal clergymen better beloved by their congregations and by the people of all classes in a community, than Reverend B. F. McMillan, the pastor of the Presbyterian church of Glasco. He wields an influence that is far reaching in its strength. He is a forceful speaker, but is guarded in his utterances and does not assume the aggressive, nor antagonize his religious assemblies, but rather lives his religion that others may accept of their own ^•o]ition. He is a close and constant student by both instinct and habit, and a devoted pastor that has developed an interest in Christian work far above the average minister. Re\erend McMillan was born in Lancaster county. Pennsylvania, in 1844, and when a lad of about eleven years of age removed with his parents to Polo, Illinois, where he was reared, and enlisted in Company E, Ninety- second Illinois, while a mere youth. He was in a company of mounted in- fantr)', under Colonel Smith D. Atkins, who was afterward promoted to brigadier-general. Mr. McMillan served three years and one month; acted as orderly for Major-General David Cruft, and also served as sergeant and corporal. He was in the battle of Chickamagua on the 19th and 20th of September, 1863; battles of Ringgold, Dalton, Resaca, and Jonesboro, Georgia (where they lost one-half of their regiment) ; Lovejoy Station, Trenton and skirmished all through Georgia. They were in the battle of A\ aynesboro under Kilpatrick, and the battles of Savannah, Averyboro, Aiken. South. Carolina, Bentonville and Lookout Mountain. His regiment was in the front at all times, having been first in line at Lookout Mountain, and also when Chattanooga was taken. Reverend McMillan received a common school education before enter- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 597 ing the United States service and directly after his return he entered the Northwestern College at Naperville, Illinois, where he remained unitil taking a theological course at liome and afterward under the direction of an uncle, Reverend J. H. Pratt, D. D., who was a minister at Allentown, New Jersey. He had turned his attention in the direction of educaton before entering the army and while in the service, as time permitted. For a brief time he engaged in the study of medicine, but again resumed his ministerial studies, taking the Princeton course. He began his labors as a pastor in Mitchell county, Kansas, in the year 1874, continuing until the year 1883, and then removed to New Jersey, where he engaged further in theological studies. He came to Kansas with his father's family and homesteaded land near Beloit in 1872; his father, brothers and one sister all secured claims. His parents both died on the homestead eight miles south of Beloit. His father died in 1898 at the age of ninety-two years, and his mother in 1899 at the , age of eighty-six. By a previous marriage there were three children; by the second there were nine, all of whom are living excepting one sister. A brother in Philadelphia is a civil engineer; the other members of the family all live in Mitchell county, Kansas. Reverend McMillan's paternal ancestors were of Scotch Covenanters and Dutch Reformed sects, while his maternal ancestors were German Lutherans. His maternal grandfather was educated in the University of Ber- lin, and was by profession a teacher, attorney and surveyor. His paternal grandfather was a captain in the war of 18 12. It was in 1883, 1884 and 1885 that Reverend McMillan took a two years' theological course under Doctor J. H. Pratt, of Allentown, New Jersey. While in the east he visited in iQOi the old cemetery containing the ashes of his ancestry and found graves that were marked 1735. Many others were unmarked and moss-grown. His maternal grandfather was the sexton of the Lutheran church built early in the seventeenth century, which was later merged into the present German Reformed Church. Reverend McMillan has in his possession the ke}- to this primitive old house of worship. After preaching several years in Mitchell county, Reverend McMillan became pastor at Lincoln, Kansas, in the meantime laboring at Vesper, Lucas and other neighboring towns. He assumed charge of the Glasco congregation in 1896, and ministers to the congregations at Simpson and Fisher Creek. Reverend McMillan was married in April, 1877, to Julia S. Pratt, of Saltville, Mitchell county. Her father, Doctor R. W. Pratt, graduated in medicine at Athens College, Ohio. Her ancestors were of English origin and early settlers in Ohio, while it was included in the northwestern terri- tory. Her paternal grandfather was Colonel Pratt. Her maternal grand- father, General John Brown, was treasurer of the State University of Athens, Ohio. They were prominent and well known pioneers. Mrs. Mc- Millan's parents located in Green county, Illinois, in 1852, where she was born. After living in Kansas twenty-five years they removed to Los Angeles, California, where her mother still lives and where her father died 598 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in 1888. Mrs. McMillan is the second eldest of ten children, all of whom arel iving. One brother is a Presbyterian minister in Portland, Oregon, and one brother is a physician in Alaska. All of her ancestors were profes- sional men, ministers and educators. Mrs. Julia P. Ballard, the well known author, was her father's sister. Mr. Ballard is still a professor of the Uni- versity of New York and has almost reached the mark of four score years. Mr. and Mrs. McMillan are the parents of two sons and one daughter. Robert W., aged twenty-three, is a graduate of Brown's Commercial Col- lege, Kansas City, is ' a bookkeeper and stenographer by profession and taught school successfully three seasons. He was given a position in the First National Bank, Beloit, Kansas, but on account of failing health was forced to give it up and seek outdoor employment. He now occupies a good position in the Bank of California, Los Angeles, California. The sec- ond son, John P., aged eighteen, is a student in the second year of a high school course in Glasco. Jennie, a little daughter, aged fifteen years, attends . the Glasco school. Politically, Mr. McMillan is a Republican and served one term as col- lector in Ogle county, Illinois. The McMillans own their home, a neat little cottage in Glasco, and in the two acres which surround it they are cultivat- ing choice fruits and have given considerable attention to poultry and have some fine blooded varieties. Mrs. McMillan retains the homestead she filed on in Mitchell county, twenty-eight years ago. Reverend McMillan is a worthy Christian gaitleman, universally esteemed, not by the few, but by all classes of society. RUFUS R. BIGGS. There is always a universal feeling of interest and respect for a man who, by his own exertions and natural ability, has won for himself a promi- nent place in either professional or commercial circles, or as a tiller of the soil. Mr. Biggs has done this and occupies a place among the successful men of the Glasco vicinity. Rufus R. Biggs is a son of Joseph Biggs, upon whose original home- stead the city of Glasco was built. He settled there in 1869, and was one of the organizers of the town. A brother, Isaac Biggs, was Glasco's first postmaster, and for years engaged in general merchandise. Isaac Biggs died in 1888. R. R. Biggs received a common school education in Iowa, the state of his nativity, in the vicinity of Cedar R.apids. When he was four- teen years of age his father's family moved to Missouri, and the following year to Kansas, where Mr. Biggs began a career of farm life. In 1882, he engaged successfully in the livery business in Glasco; discontinued in 1890, and bought a farm north of that city, where he lived two years — 1893-4. and in 1894 bought part of the old H. H. Spaulding homestead. It was a bare wheat field of ninety-seven acres adjacent to Glasco. Mr. Biggs put this land under a high state of improveiTient ; built a comfortable six room cottage, substantial barns, etc. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 599 Mr. Biggs was married, in 1885, to Mary Emma Haddock, a popular Cloud county teacher. She was educated in the graded schools of Concor- dia and a student one year in the State Normal of Emporia. The Haddocks were old settlers in Cloud county and homesteaded what is now the Mess- more farm near Glasco. Her father died in 1898, and her mother in 1884. Mrs. Biggs was a teacher in the old stone school house of Glasco; entered as a substitute for one day and taught for a period of five years. She began her school work as a teacher ?.t sixteen. Mr. and Mrs. Biggs are the parents of one child, a little daughter, Wilma Inez, aged four years. Mr. and Mrs. Biggs have reared two daughters of their deceased brother, Isaac Biggs. Ida is a graduate of the Glasco High school and is married to Charles Wall. The youngest daughter, Oral, remains one of tlieir household. Socially Mr. Biggs is a member of the Knights of Pythias and Inde- pendent Order of Odd Fellows. He is considerable of a sportsman; goes to Colorado, Montana, Oklahoma or Arkansas annually for a season's hunt- ing. He is progressive in his views and contributes to all worthy enter- prises, either by his personal efforts or from his stores of a worldly nature. The Biggs have a modern, desirable home, and are among the representative people of their community. JAMES W. HEAD. The subject of this narrative is J. W. Head, of Glasco, a retired farmer, lumberman and an old veteran of the Civil war. Although a born south- erner and his father once a slave owner, true to his convictions, Mr. Head took up arms against the south. Some of his father's slaves are now living in Kansas . City, and in Nicodemus, Kansas. Mr. Head' was born in Scott county, Kentucky, in 1849. His parents were James G. and Martha Ann (Sebree) Head. His grandparents' place of nativity was the historical county of Culpeper, near the Culpeper court house, where the Heads settled among the colonists of Virginia. His grandfather emigrated to Kentucky when that state was in its infancy, and where his son, J. G. Head, was born May 4, 1807. He was reared and married in Scott county and here his family of eight boys and two girls \\ere born, five of whom are living, all in eastern Kansas, except the subject of this sketch. Mr. Head's mother passed away when her children were yet young, but his father kept them together and never married again. He died May 23, 1884, in the seventy-seventh year of his age in Miami county, Kansas, where he emigrated as early as 1858. He was a farmer by occupation. Mr. Head received his early education in the state of Kentucky. It was limited to a few terms in an old log school house. They came to Kansas in the state's pioneer days, and when the war broke out he enlisted in Company I, Fifth Kansas Cavalry, under Colonel Johnson, who was killed at Morristown. After his death thev were transferred to General 6oo HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Powell Clayton's command, who was promoted to brig^, lier g'eneral for his bravery. Mr. Head stood in the foremost rank of his r{>giment as a marks- man and being- a good rider was made an orderly. He \,as held a prison sr at Little Rock three months. He made his escape Avith cdiei-s by digging out. They formed an organization and planned an outlet. When named at roll call one morning it was found they liad disappeared. They were three weeks accomplishing" this feat of digging a twenty-seven foot tunnel, four feet in depth with an old door hinge. Of the seventy who escaped, all went in the direction of Fort Scott and got through in safety with the excqjtion of Mr. Head and a comrade, who took another rovite in the direction of Mis- sissippi and were run down by blood hounds, captured and returned to prison, after being out eleven days. They were only kept a few days, how- ever, until they were paroled. Mr. Head's regiment participated in the battles of Helena and Pine Blufif, At the latter place General Clayton and his forces of six hundred men ,held the fort against four thousand con- federates. The town was riddled with shot, shell and all sorts of missiles. The brick court house was pierced with three hundred and twenty-five balls. The building was afterward photographed. General Clayton seemed to have led a charmed life, as on his spirited horse he galloped around, above and before the breastworks, constantly exposed to the enemy's fire. The Fifth and Seventh Kansas regiments pushed south and were in the midst of dangerous warfare. In the battle of Helena, out of one hundred and seventy men only sixteen evaded the enemy ; twenty-three were taken prisoners, and the rest left on the battlefield. After the war Mr. Head resumed" farming in Miami county until 1885, when he came to Glasco and became associated with Charlie Hatcher in the lumber yard, which they subsec[uently sold to the Chicago Lumber Com- pany. Since then Mr. Head and his sons have farmed together. In 1899 he bought the handsome Parks residence property, one of the most impos- ing homes in Glasco. Mr. Head was married in 1869 to Sarah E. Hull, a member of one of the old Kentucky families of Lexington. Mr. and Mrs. Head's family consists of three children, two sons and a daughter. James R., the eldest son, is married to Nellie, daughter of Ferd Prince, of Glasco. They are the parents of a little daughter, the first grandchild in the Head family. The other children are Ivan F. and Sarah F. In political principles Mr. Head is a Democrat. In bearing he is a true southerner, possessing that chivalrous and courteous manner that years in the western country could not efface. M. F. DUBY. The enterprising firm of M. F. Duby & Company is composed of M. F. and George Duby. They are dealers in gentlemen's furnishing goods, boots and shoes, and represent the Royal Tailors of Chicago, one of the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 60 1 largest tailoring est Jishments in the world. Beside the above named stock they carry a full lir.t: of optical goods, are both registered opticians and are biVilding up an excellent reputation and lucrative business in this line. They established their ''present business August i, 1901, by buying the stock of J. W. Hare & Son. Their capital stock is about six thousand dollars, and they own the building they occupy — a two story stone structure, 28x80 feet in dimensions. M. F. Duby, the senior member of the firm, is a native of Missouri, lx)rn in East St. Louis. His father, Charles Duby, was a school teacher, expert accountant and booklceeper. He was employed in the Ohio & Mis- sissippi Railroad Company's office three years. He served three years in the Civil war with an Illinois regiment. While in the service he was trans- ferred from the army of the West to the South ; mails were very uncer- tain at this period and not hearing from him for more than a year, and supposing him dead, the mother with her little family emigrated to Nebraska, arriving in Omaha, April 14, 1865, the day President Lincoln was assas- sinated. Assuming that she was the head of the family, she took up a home- stead on an island in the Platte river. They were the first settlers on this island and it took their name and still remains known as "Duby's Island." It consists of one thousand five hundred acres. After the war the father returned to Missouri, where he had_ left his family, and learning they had settled in Nebraska, he repaired to that country, luckily appealed to a man who knew the family, and found the mother with her four sons and one daughter settled on their homestead. This was during the early settle- ment of that state, when the Indians were numerous, and game and fur- bearing animals plentiful, but the Indians were pretty well civilized and gave the settlers but little trouble. Mr. Duby's grandparents emigrated from France to Canada, where Charles Duby was born. Mr. Duby's mother's people were of Ohio birth; her ancestors were of Scotch origin. M. F. Duby was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools of Nebraska, where his father taught several terms. In 1883 he moved to western Nebraska and from there to Alabama, where he became a cotton planter. Two and a half years later he emigrated west, locating in Washington, where he operated a logging camp very success- fully, employing from eighteen to twenty men. After selling his interests there he traveled extensively in search of a suitable location and in 1901, he with his brother, and their families, came to Glasco and embarked in their present business. Mr. Duby was married in 1877 to Clara E. Long, of Pennsylvania birth, who came with her parents to Nebraska in 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Duby's family consists of six children, three daughters and three sons, viz: Everard Forest, aged twenty-four, is an attorney located in Seattle, Wash- ington. He is a graduate of the State University at Seattle and a member of the law firm of Steiner, French & Duby. Charles Ferdinand, twenty-one years of age, is proprietor of a restaurant and lunch counter in Glasco. 6o2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. May Agues, aged nineteen; Jesse James, aged seventeen; Pearl Maud, aged ten, and Eva Elsie, a little girl of three years. The two last named were born in the state of Washington. Politically Mr. Duby is a populist. They occupy one of the best resi- dence properties in Glasco — an imposing two-story nine-room modern house. GEORGE S. DUBY. G. S. DUBY, the subject of this sketch, is the junior member of the firm of M. F. Duby & Company. He is a native of Marysville, Illinois, and like his brother received his early education in the common schools of Nebraska. He completed a course in optics in the Omaha Horological and Optical School, graduating in 1803. Prior to this he had taken a corre- spondence course in the Chicago Optical Institute. Mr. Duby has fitted hundreds of pairs of glasses in Nebraska and has also worked extensively in Iowa, Colorado, South Dakota, Kansas and Missouri He lived in Nebras- ka from 1863 until August, 1901, when he located in Glasco. He traveled nine years with optical goods and jewelry. He has taught thirty-seven pupils and most of them are practicing. Mr. Duby was married to Mary E. Gilbert, who was reared in Mem- phis, Tennessee. They are the parents of three boys and one girl. Mildred, William, Forest and Otis. Politically Mr. Duby is a populist. By their courteous and accommodating manner and a desire to please the public. , M. F. Duby & Company have built up an excellent trade. They are energetic and reliable business men who deserve to succeed. — [In May, 1902, the Dubys disposed of their Glasco interests and returned to the state of Washington, their former home. — Editor.] G. B. VANLANDINGHAM. Perhaps no individual of the Solomon valley is better known than G. B. VanLandingham. He is a public spirited, enterprising man and has done his full' share toward the improvement of his section of the country, and is ranked among its most trustworthy citizens." The place of his nativity is Palmyra, one of the most beautiful httle cities in the state of Missouri. He was born September 30, 1845, ^"^ lived in his native state until coming to Kansas in 1871. Mr. VanLandingham received his earlier education in the common schools of his county and after- ward took a course in the Palmyra College. In 1863 he was enrolled in the state militia under Federal authorities and again in 1864, but was each time rejected for active military service by the examining surgeon on account of a crippled ankle. Since coming to Kansas he has been engaged in various enterprises — agricultural and mercantile. He homsteaded a claim in the Solomon valley, farmed successfully for manv vears and was associated with his brother-in- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 603 law, Owen Day, in the hardware business al Glasco, for a period of about ten years. He is also a stock auctioneer and has conducted many sales, extending over this and adjoining counties and is acknowledged as one of the best in the country. Throughout his life Mr. VanLandingham has been a devoted worker in the interests of the Democratic party, and in 1887 received from his con- stituents the nomination for sheriff of Cloud county against Edward Mar- shall, and made a formidable foe, but was on the wrong side to be elected in this county. The vote stood one thousand five hundred and forty-three for Marshall and one thousand four hundred and forty-one for VanLanding- ham. Although he has a "will of his own" he is not aggressive. He is a philanthropic, honorable, high minded man, full of generous impulses and his career is marked by many kind deeds. He is extensively known over Cloud county and none of her citizens possesses the general good will of the people to a greater extent than he, and he is one of the old-timers who witnessed the marvelous growth of this fair state, and is pretty well satisfied with the world as it is revealed in Kansas. JAMES H. D. PILCHER. A prosperous and progressive farmer of Lyon township is J. H. D. Pilcher. whose advent in Cloud county was in December of 1871, and on the 8th of January, 1872, he homesteaded his claim. Mr. Pilcher is a native of La Salle county, Illinois, born January 5, 1850. When about five years of age the family moved to Livingstone county, Illinois, where they continued to live until coming to Kansas. Mr. Pilcher is a son of John Wesley and Eliza (Mcintosh) Pilcher, who were married in 1847. J. W. Pilcher was born in Ohio in 1821 : his father was born in the state of Maryland in 1793 and died when his son J. W. was three years of age. His mother was Margaret Courtney, came from Ireland to America and settled in Virginia in the colonial days of that state, and in that portion now included in West Virginia, \\'here numerous antecedents still live. J. W. Pilcher's parents were mamed in Virginia and went to Ohio, where he was born in 1821; his father died in 1850, at the age of fifty-seven years; his mother died in 1868, at their home in Livingstone county, Illinois, where they had moved in 1847. J. W. Pilcher emigrated to Kansas in 1873 ^"^ took a homestead in Lyon township, about six miles northeast of Glasco, where he lived until three years ago, when he retired from farm life and moved into Glasco, where he now lives at the age of eighty-one years. Our subject's mother was a daughter of Daniel and Cornelia (Cress- field) Mcintosh, of Ohio, born in 1825. Mrs. Mcintosh w^as the widow of John Crouch, who died in Indiana, where they had located, — leaving his wife and a daughter, who died unmarried at the age of forty-three years. Her second husband, John Crouch, of Ohio, died at the age of thirty-six years, leaving his wife and two daughters, one of whom is Mr. Pilcher's 6o4 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. mother, and the other is a resident of Ottawa, lUinois. Mrs. Crouch re- moved to Ilhnois and died in that state in 1850. J. H. D. Pilcher is one of six children : Ella, who had lived and cared for her aged parents, died unmarried in 1895, at the age of forty-three years. Josephine, wife of James Fletcher, a farmer and veteran of the Civil war, living in Lyon township. Cornelia Belle, wife of J. B. Rice, a farmer near Fairmount, Nebraska. Eugenia, deceased at the age of twelve years, and Alice, deceased at the age of twenty-one months. The Pilchers lived like the average settler, in a dugout, cooked over a' fireplace and endured all sorts of inconveniences for a period of six years. He then built a more modern house, with floor and roof, the cellar of which is now under his present residence. The first year he did not own a team, but managed to hold down his government claim and live; though he was reduced in currency tmtil he could not buy a postage stamp. For the last few years Mr. Pilcher has made wheat raising his chief pursuit. He lias raised a good many hogs and has always had some cattle to sell. Mr. Pilcher has forged to the front and today owns two hundred and forty acres of fine land. In 1878 he built a comfortable stone house and in 1891 a substantial barn. His country place is neat and attractive and has every ap- pearance of thrift and enterprise. He was married in October, 1877, to Sarah R. Courtney, who is entitled to her share of the credit for the success of her husband. She is a daughter of Robert W. and Lydia (Smyth) Courtney. Her parents were both of \\''est Virginia, — Monongalia county, near Morgantown, — where Mrs. Pil- cher was born. Her father was a farmer and when Mrs. Pilcher was eight years old the family moved to Livingston county, Illinois, and settled on a farm. In 1872 they came to Kansas and homesteaded land in Meredith township. Her father died in 1885, ^"^l h^'' mother resides in Delphos, with a daughter, — Mrs. Ida St. Clair. Mrs. Pilcher is one of twelve chil- dren, nine of whom are living and all in Kansas, except one, Samuel, who returned to their old Virginia home. To Mr. and Mrs. Pilcher ten children have been born and all are living, viz : Lewis and Frank are interested with their father in farming and stock raising. Harry, Chloe, Grace, Lester, Raymond, Bert, William, McKinley and Gay. Mr. Pilcher votes the Republican ticket, and is a member of Delphos Lodge, Ancient Order United Workmen. Mr. Pilcher is an honest, industrious farmer, who commands the respect and esteem of all who know him. He is liberal and progressive and a man that benefits a community by his living example of pluck and energy. — [Since the above sketch was written, Mr. Pilcher's venerable parents have passed over the "Great Divide." They died but a few hours apart, after a happy wedded life of fifty-five years. They were aged eighty-one and seventy-six years, respec- tively, and had been residents of the Solomon valley for more than thirty years. They were universally respected and consistent Christians — mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. — Editor.] ■ . , HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 60s JAMES F. PILCHER. ! The subject of this sketch is J. F. Pilcher, a brother of Charles Pilcher, and hke him is one of those hard working, progressive, self-made fanners. J. F. Pilcher left his birthplace, Livingston county, Illinois, where he was born in 1855, and emigrated to Cloud county with his father's family. When he arrived at his majority he began his career as a farm hand and the same year filed on a homestead, his present farm in Lyon township, eight miles northeast of Glasco. He bought the relinquishment of a man by the name of Correll, who had broken a few acres and built a dugout, for which Mr. Pilcher paid three hundred and fifty dollars. From this raw claim of prairie he has developed one of the finest wheat farms in the Solomon valley, .and it is under an excellent state of improvement and cultivation. In 1879 Mr. Pilcher built a small stone residence and in 1899 added a two-story front, which makes a commodious residence of eight rooms. Mr. Pilcher was married in 1879 to Helen A. Newell, one of the amia- ble daughters of Adrastus Newell (see sketch). She was a teacher in the early settlement of the country and is an intellectual and cultured woman. They are the parents of seven children living, and one deceased. Myrtella, the eldest daughter, is married to Allen Everley, a farmer of Lyon township. The eldest son, Robert, who has not attained his majority, assists his father on the farm. The younger children are Stella, Claude, Arthtir Lois and Glen. Mr. Pilcher is a sympathizer with the Democratic party and socially is a member of the Woodmen order of Glasco. The Pilchers are all indus- trious, honest people, and good, reliable citizens,^the kind to be depended upon when any enterprise is on foot for the good of the community. CHARLES H. PILCHER. The subject of this sketch is Charles H. Pilcher, a progressive farmer and stockman of Lyon township. Mr. Pilcher was born in Li\-ingston county, Illinois, in 1865. He is a son of Robert and Ery Ann (McCashlan) Pilcher. Robert Pilcher was a native of Ohio, born in Clinton county in 1822. In his early manhood he moved to Wayne county, Indiana, where he married in 1843 ^"d four years later moved to Illinois. In 1877 Mr. Pilcher with his family emigrated to Cloud county and bought the relinquishment of the Thomas Jones claim, which he home- steaded and where he lived until a short time prior to his death. He was stricken with a paralytic stroke in 1892, and another on July 22, 1895, f^'om which he did not recover. He was a highly respected citizen and his last days of suffering were marked by his fortitude and patience. Mrs. Pilcher, the wife and mother, was born in Frederick county, Virginia (now West Virginia), on the same day of the same year as her husband, October 7,. 1822. She died of heart failure in 1891, at the age of sixty-eight years and 38 6o6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY. KANSAS. three months. Mrs. Pilcher became a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal church at the dawning of womanhood and her life was character- ized as that of a consistent Christian woman. To this worthy couple eight children were born, six of whom are living, viz: Charles H., the subject of this sketch; Mary, wife of Donald Gray, a carpenter of Glasco; William, a farmer five miles east of Glasco; James, a farmer of Lyon township; Rilla, wife of William Mathews, a farmer of Lyon township, and Robert, who conducts a barber shop in Glasco. Charles H. Pilcher is the youngest child, and lives on the old homestead, .having bought out the other heirs to the estate. He has one hundred and sixty acres on Chris creek. His farm is well improved, well timbered and has two splendid springs that afford ample water for stock. He has fifty-five head of native cattle and keeps from thirty to forty head of Poland China hogs. Mr. Pilcher has been twice married. -His first wife was Alice Eber- hart, who died in 1891 at the age of twenty years. They were the parents of three children, two of whom died prior to the mother's death, while the other, an infant, followed shortly after. In 1894 Mr. Pilcher was married to Adah Maud Snyder, one of the estimable daughters of Captain Snyder, an old settler of the Solomon valley. They are the parents of two children, Leta Bell, born in Cloud county, Kansas, December 5, 1897, and Clifford Leroy, born October i, 1899. JOHN HENRY LIBBEN. J. H. Libben, an industrious and frugal German, came to America in 1874. After farming in Iowa tw^o years, Mr. Libben came to Lyon town- ship, where he homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres, and he is now one of the most prosperous farmers and stockmen of that community. He has purchased adjacent lands until he owns seven hundred and fifty acres in Lyon township and one hundred and thirty-five in Solomon township, most of which is wheat and pasture land. He keeps a herd of about seventy-five head of native cattle, and seldom has less than one hundred head of hogs. The first two years on the homestead were spent in a dugout which then gave place to a new frame dwelling that has been enlarged and is now a comfort- able and commodious country residence. In 1901, true to the German char- acteristic, he erected an excellent barn. Mr. Libben was born in 1839, in Ostfriesland, Germany. He is one of four children, and the only one in America. His parents both died in Ger- many. Mr. Libben was married in 1881 to Anna Doretha Horn, a daughter of Fred Horn, who died in 1889. Her mother is a resident of Cloud county and lives on a farm near Fisher creek. To Mr. and Mrs: Libben five chil- dren have been born, four of whom are living, viz : Frederick, a student of the German Conforming School at Glasco, under the tutorage of the Luth- eran minister of that town : Annie, deceased ; Henrv. a student of the district HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 607 school attending the Conforming- school on Saturdays; Etta, aged six, and Theodore, an infant. Mr. Libben is a Republican in his political affiliations and the family are members of the Lutheran church. L. NOEL. Mr. Noel located in Glasco July i, 1884, where he has lived continu- ously ever since, and became one of the business men of the Solomon valley. Mr. Noel is a native of Iowa, born in Henry county in 1853. His parents were early settlers, coming from Tennessee to Iowa. Mr. Noel began his career as a painter in a wagon factory, following that vocation for twelve years. He came to Glasco with a small capital and bought an interest in the elevator of W. R. West & Company. In 1892 he bought their interest. The elevator was established in 1878, but has been repaired and enlarged until its present capacity is storage for twenty-live thousand bushels of grain. Mr. Noel owns a farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land one and one- half miles northwest of Glasco, and is president of the Glasco State Bank. January 17, 1884, Mr. Noel was married to Martha McCormick, of Iowa. To this union three children have been born, Eva, Edgar and Sidney, aged fifteen, nine and six years respectively, Mr, Noel was a Democrat until the adoption of free silver, and as there were no gold Democrats here he affiliated with the Republican party. He has held a membership in the Knights of Pythias lodge of Glasco for fifteen years, has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows for more than twenty years, and is a member of the Order of Woodmen. ENOCH WILLIAMSON. The subject of this sketch is Enoch Williamson, of Solomon township. He is a native of Indiana, born on a farm twelve miles distant from the city of Indianapolis. He is a practical and thorough farmer of life-long experi- ence and has been successful. His father was James Williamson, born in Ohio, on the Scioto river, and in the county that bears that name. He was a farmer by occupation, and died in 1853. When quite a young man he set- tled in Indiana, bought eighty acres of land and paid for it by applying his wages, eight dollars per month, which he received as a farm hand. He was killed while felling a tree. His son, the subject of this sketch, was chopping near by when the accident occurred. He found his father unconscious, re- maining in that condition until he died four hours later. Mr. Williarnson's mother was Christina (Shafer) Williamson. At the time of her husband's death she was left with nine small children, the youngest a babe in her arms, four months old. They lived in Indiana in the pioneer days of that state and when the woods were infested with wild animals. Bear were numerous and 6o8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the wolves howled in their door yards. The homestead is still in possession of the family and is now occupied by a niece. Mr. Williamson, the second eldest child, was one of his mother's chief supports_and operated the farm, hence he received a limited education. He is one of~twelve children, eight of that number living. Three died in infancy. Wesley returned from the war broken down in health and died several )'ears later, leaving a wife and three children. The other children are: Peter, a retired farmer and stockman of Bell county, Texas; Rosarma, widow of Martin Phelps (they have two daughters and live near the old homestead in Indiana) ; Barbara, wife of John Sharpe, a farmer of Champaign county, Illinois ; Asa is a retired farmer of Indiana (he was a soldier in the Civil war) ; Frank, a farmer of Indiana; John, a farmer and stockman of Collings- worth county, in the Panhandle country of Texas; his wife died in August, 1900, leaving a daughter fifteen years of age. He was an educator of consid- erable prominence and was principal of the Quaker high school of Ham- ilton, Indiana, and taught in the schools of Terre Haute. Margaret is the wife of Richard Power, and resides near the town of Nora, Indiana. Mr. Williamson's mother came from Germany when twelve years old. Her parents were very poor and during- their voyage to America she with two of her si.sters were sold to work out the price of their passage across the water. They were left in Baltimore while the other members of the family went on into Ohio. The consideration was seven, five and three years labor, according to their capacity for work. She being- the youngest was given over for seven years. The two eldest served their allotted time and sought their parents. His mother served her time out and entered the home of an English-speaking family, where she had a good home, but lost her native language entirely. Dviring this period her mother died and she remained with this family until she was twenty-four years of age. She resented the act of her father having sold her and did not return home. She visited her sis- ters in Ohio and found two of them married to the Williamson brothers. She married a third brother, Mr. Williamson's father, and the three families moved to Indiana. She died on the old homestead, where they first settled, at the age of ninety years. She was a widow for over forty years. Mr. Williamson removed from Indiana to northeastern Iowa in 1865 with an invalid wife, who died of pulmonary disease, leaving four children, three boys and one girl, but one of whom is living, — Frank B., an employe in the treasury department in Washington, District of Columbia. He made the best record in the civil service examination of any applicant in the state. He has held his present position two years. Prior to entering upon this work he was a traveling salesman. After his wife's death Mr. Williamson re- turned fo Indiana and resumed his farming operations. By a second marriage he was wedded to Mrs. Mary E. (Garrett) Clark, a niece of his first wife. By a former husband she was the mother of three children, viz: Clara, wife of Adam Studt, of Glasco; W. L. Clark, a stock- man of Wyoming, and William S. Clark, a farmer of Solomon township. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 609 To 'Sir. and Mrs. Williamson five children have been, born: James R., su- perintendent of a department for the Swift Packing Company in Chicago; he occupies one of the best positions in this extensive concern, where he entered as an ordinary laborer. His industry and integrity are responsible for this lucrative position. He has been in their employ for about ten years. He visited his parents in 1901 ; Arvilla, wife of William Davidson, (see sketch); Charles \V. is interested in farming with his father; he is married to ;\'Iary D. Abrams, an orphan girl, who was reared by her grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. William Doyle; Mary E., wife of William Benson, a farmer of Solomon township; Mr. Benson is a successful young man, industrious and progressive, and gives promise of becoming one of the leading farmers in the community; Guy, a progressive )'Oung fellow, is interested in a laun- dry in Colorado Springs, Colorado. \\'hen Mr. Williamson left Indiana he settled in Moniteau county, Mis- souri, remaining ten years. In 1879 he came to Kansas and farmed one }'ear in I-incoln county, where he sunk considerable money and then came to the beautiful Solomon valley. He bought a farm of Dan Teasley, and in iSq4 purchased the finely improved place where he now lives. The first three years he rented land on the river bottom. His farm, which is one of the very best in the Solomon valley, consists of three hundred and twenty acres of land, a part of which is the original homestead of Anderson Bagwell. Prior to its purchase by Mr. N-N^illiamson, it was owned by the Bracken heirs. It is a well watered and well timbered farm and produces wheat and com-. He has gi\'en considerable time to horticulture and is rewarded by an abundance of excellent fruit. Their commodious home is beautifully situated near a tim- ber bordered creek and the buildings indicate thrift and enterprise. A new barn just completed at a cost of S800 adds to the attractiveness of the place. Mr. Williamson belongs to the Populist party. He has been a mem- ber of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons since 1863, a period of thirty- nine years. He was a charter member of both the Glasco and Simpson lodges. He and his family are strong exponents of the Methodist faith and Mr. ^Villiamson has been a steward in the church for almost half a century. Mr. and Mrs. Williamson are excellent people. She is a refined, gentle woman and he is a Christian gentleman and an honest man whose word is as good as his bond. BOYD R. MOORE. B. R. Moore, a farmer, stockman and extensive wheat grower of Lyon township, is a native of Warren county, Illinois. At the age of fifteen Mr. Moore went to Colorado, where he spent several years. In 1881 he came to Cloud county and now owns three hundred and twenty acres of fine land in a high state of cultivation, with good house, barn, etc. He was married in 1883 to Mrs. Morris, the widow of Edward Morris, by whom she had three children, ^'iz : Frank, a telegraph operator of Lu- Verne, Minnesota; Guy, on his fourth year in Campbell L^niversity at Hoi- 6io HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ton, Kansas, where he is taking a general course and will enter the State University of Kansas the coming year; Maude, a graduate of the common schools. By her marriage with Mr. Moore there is one son, Claude, who received a common school diploma and is now on his first year in the high school at Delphos. Mrs. Moore was a Courtney and her paternal ancestors came from Ireland. JOHN CONNELLY CHASE. The subject of this sketch is J. C. Chase, a farmer, stockman and chicken fancier of Solomon township, two miles southeast of Glasco. Mr. Chase was born on Third avenue, in the city of New York, October i8, 1854, but in appearance is ten years younger. His father, William Henry Chase, was a carpenter by trade and a native of New York, with residence in New York City and Brooklyn. He died in 1874, in his forty-eighth year. The Chase ancestry came from Wales and were early settlers in New York. His mother was Maria L. (Johnson) Chase; born and died in the city of New York. The Chase family consisted of himself and two sisters. The eldest sister, Elizabeth E. Lane, is a widow, — having buried two husbanrls She resides in the city of New York and has one daughter, Priscilla, by her first husband. The other sister is Mrs. Ida M. Satterlee, of New York City. Mr. Chase learned the alphabet in the cit)^ of New York with one hun- dred or more other children ; as the teacher pointed to the charts they screamed out the letters. Lie then attended school in winter and in this way received a good common education. He was at one time a pupil of John Ridpath, the historian. Mr. Chase left the city of New York when seven years of age and with some race horse owners went to Indiana, where he began to exercise and train for a jockey, and soon afterward rode in the races, and subsequently became well known among the turfmen. He has been connected Avith the Homer & Crouch stables near Lebanon, Indiana, and with Samuel Hine, near Greencastle, Indiana, Long & Allen, of Bloom- ington, Illinois, and with General Price, a son of General Sterling Price, of Missouri, for four years. Mr. Chase rode his famous horse, "Bill Bass," at the head of the Tennessee wagon in the procession at the ratification of Cleveland's election. General Price took an active part in the celebration, allowing his handsome milk white horse to lead the procession, but had voted against Cleveland. Mr. Chase was with Kellar & Tracy, of St. Louis, and went with them to Denver, remaining one year. He was with Sam Trowbridge, of Welling- ton, Kansas, and with D. W. Covington. In 1891 he shipped a brood mare to Cloud county, intending to move on to St. Louis for the purpose of train- ing some horses and riding in the races. He had friends in Cloud county, who persuaded him to ride at meetings in Concordia, Clyde, Clay Center and other towns. Mr. Chase has won big stakes. He won a handsome purse on "Pete Willis," General Price's horse, at St. Louis. He has been . more or less interested in horses all his life. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 6n Mr. Chase has five young horses that have been bred for the track. He has one of the best bred stalhons in the world, "Frances Hennessey," His sire, "Sid Arthur," was imported by Pierre Lorillard. His dam was "Mur- tillo," bred by Milton Young, of Lexington, Kentucky. "Francis Hen- neissey" is a half-brother of "Our Nellie," the famous mare which holds the two-mile record, 3:32^4, and a number of other record breakers. She made this record at Memphis in 1899. Tn color "Francis Hennessey" is a very dark seal brown horse, with two white heels. He is a superbly magnificent animal. Mr. Chase also has a strictly thoroughbred mare, "Lucy," from "Long- bow" by "Longfellow." She is now eighteen years old and he has raised six colts from her. He has retained one of her colts, a brood mare, "Vina Long" by "Okema." The latter is by "Reform," out of the dam of "Iro- quois" that went to England and won the English derby, the only American bred horse that ever captured it. Mr. Chase takes delight in poultry breeding, but horses are his "long suit." He has been breeding the Brown Leghorns and the Black Minorcas five years. In the latter he has scored up to 95 ^4 points. Judge Rhodes, of Topeka, at the Delphos poultry show in 1900, affirmed they were the high- est he had ever adjudged, and carried away the blue ribbon. He supplies eggs for hatching and his patrons are sure of getting the pure article. j^He keeps about a half dozen pit game chickens and when it comes to a "show down" they prove themselves champions. He has taken his share and the biggest end of the blue ribbon wherever he has exhibited, — Beloit, Delphos, Minneapolis and Glasco, — and they have been scored by as good judges as there are in the country : L. P. Harris, of Nebraska, Judge Rhodes, of To- peka, and othe'r competent authority. Mr. Chase also has some fine bred shorthorn cattle, but for lack of pasture does not keep a large herd. He has been successful in hog raising during the corn years. His fine farm con- sists of one hundred and eighty-fi^'e acres of bottom land, intersected by the Solomon river. Mr. Chase was married in 1894 to Pauline (Knatkowsky), the widow of Jacob Studt, by Avhora she had six children. The two younger were twins, — one of them died at the age of three months. Jacob Studt was a native of Germany, born in 1840. When a small boy he came to America with his parents and settled in Illinois, near Waterloo, and in 1867 came to Cloud county, where he died January 26, 1891. Their children are Margaret C, Augusta S., Elizabeth K. A., Herman A., and Clara H. The Chase farm is the original homestead of Mr. Studt, where he and his brother lived in a dug- out for several years, and built the first log house in the neighborhood, which was then deemed commodious. The house still stands. In 1890 Mr. Studt built a good frame house of nine rooms. To Mr. and Mrs. Chase has been born one child, Priscilli Cornelia, a beautiful little girl of fixe years. Mr. Chase takes an active part in political affairs and votes the Republican ticket. He is a member of the order of \\'oodmen of Glasco. Mrs. Chase is a member of the Lutheran church. 6l2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ;\Ir. Chase is diminutive in stature and looks his part. He is never so happy as when training a horse for the turf, unless it is when mounted for the race. He is an affable, genial fellow and by his social qualities draws around him a host of friends. He is a good citizen and desirable neighbor. HARRY L. SOULE. The Soule family trace their ancestry in America back to the time the "Mayflower" made its way across the Atlantic in 1620. Among the passen- gers was George Soule, who cast his lot with the Pilgrim Fathers and lived to an advanced age, dying in 1679. To George Soule and wife was bom John Soule, who lived in Duxbury, Massachusetts. The settlement of his estate was dated March i, 1707, and it is probable he died about 1706. His son Iknjamin Soule married Sarah Standish, a daughter of Alexander Standish and grandaughter of Captain Miles Standisii. Benjamin Soule died December i, 1729, at the age of sixty-three years. His wife died March 14, 1740, aged sixty-three years. Zachariah, a son, of Ben- jamin, lx)rn March 21, 1694, was married June 9, 1720, to Mary Eaton. Zachariah died March 3, 1751, at the age of fifty-seven years. Ephraim, son of Zachariah, born May II, 1729, was married February 10, 1754, to Rebecca Whitewash, a daughter of Richard Whitewash. He died January 24, 181 7, aged eighty-seven years. His wife died September 5, 1805, aged seventy-five years. His son, Daniel Soule, was born Novem- ber 16, 1757. He was married to Sarah Cushman, seventh daughter of Josiah Cushman, of Plymouth, Massachusetts, a lineal descendant of the fourth generation of Elder Thomas Cushman, one of the Mayflower pil- griius. May i, 1783. Daniel died in 1836, at the age of eighty-one years. Josiah, his son, born January 13, 1794, married Sally Young, of Ware- ham, [Massachusetts, and died March 9, 1872. The sons of Josiah Soule were Josiah, Isaac, George, Plimpton, James, Harrison and Warren. The daughters were Julia, Clarissa, Emily and Clara, all of whom are dead but Julia, who resides at Warren, Ohio. Harrison, the fifth son of Josiah, was born August 3, 1836, and married Adelaide Sandford. Harrison Soule died September 22, ]884. To this union three sons were born, Seymour, Harry, the subject of this sketch, and Jesse. No branch of art has been more rapidly or scientifically developed in recent years than photography. Glasco is fortunate in this respect, as she has a photographer in Mr. Soule of more than ordinary ability, several of Harry L. Soule. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 613 whose photographs are reproduced in this volume of history. His work has won for him a reputation not only in his own city and \-icinity but in neigh- boring towns, deriving a large patronage from them. There are many cities of far greater population that are less fortunate in this line. Mr. Soule is conscientious and endeavors to give satisfaction in his work. He cast his lot with the Kansas people in the early 'eighties, traveling about for several years over various portions of the state. In 1890 he located in the enterprising little city of Glasco, assuming charge of the Bischoff Brothers' gallery. A year later he decided to roam again, but in 1895 con- cluded Glasco was one of the most desirable points for his business and a res- idence, and opened his present gallery. His work is characterized for the fine finish given his photos and the artistic posing of his subjects. He makes many landscape and river views, photographs homes, interiors, stock, etc. Mr. Soule is a native of LaHarpe, Hancock county, Illinois, born May 17, 1862. He is a son of Harrison Soule, a farmer of Trumbull, Warren county, Ohio, who located in Illinois before the war and became a drummer boy in the Eighty-fourth Illinois Volunteer Regimait. The name Soule is . of French origin. Mr. Soule"s motlier was Adelaide O. Sanford, and like the Soules traces her ancestry back to colon- ial days; Her maternal great-grandmother was a cousin of the distinguished George Bancroft of colonial fame. Her father, M. D. Sandford, was a dep- uty sheriff in Hancock county, Illinois, at the time of the killing of Joseph Smith, the Mormon leader. He was born in 1810 and was a soldier in the Mexican war. He was among the forty-niners who went to California, and made six overland trips across the plains. His last trip was made to Lead- ville, where he engaged in mining and in the hotel business, until his death. Mr. Soule's mother died at Joplin, Missouri, where she lived with a son (now deceased) in July, 1899. i\Ir. Soule and a sister by his father's second marriage are the only surviving members of his family. She is the wife of Doctor Charles Hur- dle, D. D. S., and resides at LaHarpe, Illinois. Seymour, the eldest brother, died at Joplin, Missouri, of miner's consumption. He left three sons, Jesse, Claude and Clyde. Jesse W., the second brother, died at LaHarpe, Illinois, leaving two sons, Ralph and Kenneth. Mr. Soule was married in the spring of 1891 to Florence (Ott) Hamp- ton, widow of Jasper Hampton, by whom she had three children, Eddie, Oscar and Teresa. To Mr. and Mrs. Soule one child has been born, Harry Soule, Jr. Politically Mr. Soule is a Democrat and a member of the city council. The Soules are active members of the Christian church. NICOLAS WEAVER. The subject of this sketch is Nicolas Weaver, an old settler, farmer and stockman of Solomon township. He is a native of \\''estmoreland county, Pennsylvania, thirty miles distant from the city of Pittsburg. .He was born 6i4 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in 1847, 3"d is a son of David B. and Jane (Henry) Weaver. His ancestors were of German origin and among the early settlers of that state. His father vi^as born in Westmoreland county, where he lived on a farm until his death by accident, which occurred August i, 1879. He was walking on the tracks of the Pennsylvania Central Railroad and was struck by the fast express. There were cars standing on the three tracks and though accustomed to walking there daily, he did not see or hear the approaching train that caused his death. Mr. Weaver's mother died when he was four years old, leaving eight children, five of whom are livirig; one in Streator, Illinois, two in Pal- merville, Pennsylvania, and one in Boston. By a second marriage there were two children. At the age of nineteen years Mr. Weaver began to map out a career for himself and emigrated to Livingston county, Illinois, where he farmed until coming to Kansas in 1871, and homesteaded the land where he now lives. Mr. Weaver began at the foundation, as seven dollars was his cash capital when he arrived in Cloud county. The same year he was married and mo\ed into the 13x13 dugout, where they continued to live seven years and experi- enced many hardships; but their hospitality was not wanting and the}" kept any wayfarer that came their way. Although often without flour or milk, they lived for days on shorts minus fat enough of any kind to grease a bread pan, often drank coffee made from parched corn and burnt molassess. There was no market for eggs or butter when they had them, and many times they did not have a cent in their possession for weeks, not so much as a postage stamp. They had just arrived at the point where they could exist with some comfort when the grasshoppers put in an appearance. In 1878 he built a small frame house of one room; two years later he added a kitchen, and in 1893 a one-and-a-half-story addition, making a com- fortable residence. In 1897 he erected a barn 26x36 feet. Mr. Weaver now owns three hundred and twenty acres of land and has a wheat field this year (1901) of one hundred acres. He has had some very large yields of wheat and com, and raises the latter when it fails in other localities. Mr. AVeaver was married in 1871 to Isabella Boyd, a native of Han- cock county, near Findlay, Ohio. She is a' daughter of Alexander Hamilton and Anna (Overholdt) Boyd, both natives of Pennsylvania, where they were married and later settled in Ohio, and subsequently mo-ved to Illinois. Her father was a miller and a farmer. He died July 27, 1901, at the home of his daughter, where he had ]i\ed since December, 1900. The Boyds were of Irish origin. JMrs. AVeaver s great-grandfather came from Ireland. Her paternal grandfather was a physician and had practiced medicine in Norristown, Pennsylvania, where he lived for years and until his death. Her maternal ancestors were German. Her maternal grandfather was a minister of the Alennonite faith. She is one of seven children, five of whom are living, — one brother near Fremont, Iowa, and three sisters with residence in Streator, Illinois. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 615 To Mr. and Mrs. Weaver five children have been born, four of whom are hving. Their eldest child, David B., died on Christmas Eve, 1897, at the age of twenty-five years. He was stricken with typhoid fever while in the employ of a pubhshing company in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and died after an illness of two weeks. He graduated from Streator (Illinois) Com- mercial College in 1892; worked and paid his own tuition. He was an ex- pert penman and taught classes in penmanship. He had considerable artistic talent and executed some creditable work in black and white. He also took a course of penmanship in the pen department of Dixon College. He was a bright, intelligent boy of much character and firmness of purpose. He was an exemplary member of the Christian church. Fran- ces, wife of A. J. Franks, a farmer of Solomon township; they are the par- ents of one child, a little daughter Odrey. Reno and Christopher are asso- ciated with their father on the farm. Ralph, the youngest son, is farming in Iowa. Mr. Weaver is a Democrat. His sons who have attained their ma- jority vote the Republican ticket. The family are members of the Baptist church. JAMES ALEXANDER COLEMAN. J. A. Coleman cast his lot with the people of the beautiful and fertile Solomon valley in 1886. He is a shrewd business man, bestirs himself early and late, one of the get-up-and-hustle kind that never fails to grasp a good bargain or take advantage of opportunities that come in his way; another good example of what pluck and ambition can do in this fair commonwealth. He came to Kansas practically a poor man btit possessed of that heritage, energy and grit which is of far more value than titles to land, minus these attributes. He has forged to the front and ranks as a successful farmer and stockman. Mr. Coleman is still in the prime of life, having been born in Keytesville, Missouri, in the year 1856; but his cordial manner and good humored witticisms imply he might be ten years younger. His parents were John Henry and Elvira (Moss) Coleman. J. H. Coleman was a Virginian by birth, born in Prince Edward county. He emi- grated to Missouri in his earlier life, where he died in the early 'seventies. He was of English origin. Mr. Coleman is one of seven children, four of whom are living, all in Sheridan county, Missouri, except himself. William Edward, a fanner; Martha J., wife of Charles Edison, a farmfer, and Jennie, v., wife of W. L. Brown. Mr. Coleman began his career on a farm. His mother died during the war and he was thrown on his own resources very early in life. He was mar- ried in 1880 to Annie Alice Wells, of Sheridan county, Missouri, where she was born and reared. Her father was Freeman Wells. He left Virginia, his native state, when a young man and settled in Missouri, where he died in 1882. Her mother was Polly Huttsell, of Kentucky birth. She died in 1880. Mrs. Coleman is one of nine children, six of whom are living. John 6i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Edward, a carpenter with residence in Concordia; William L., a retired farmer of Concordia; Mattie J., wife of Jeff Hulse, a farmer of Solomon township; Sena, wife of Wesley Cline, an Oklahoma farmer; Susan, wife of William Crook, a farmer of Solomon township. Mr. Coleman came to Kansas with small capital and at the end of two years, owing to partial failure of crops and bad management, he had prac- tically nothing. He had not adapted himself to the country and the ways of the people — thought he was in Missouri. However, shortly afterward he bought eighty acres of the Ezra Calhoun homestead, built a neat cottage and improved the place. Two years later he bought forty acres adjoining it on the south; two years subsequently added eighty acres on the west side, and in 1899 secured forty acres adjoining on the east side. Has improved the lat- ter, built a comfortable house of six rooms, located on the edge of Fisher' creek, which furnishes beautiful shade of natural forest trees. Our subject raises wheat, alfalfa and corn. In 1896 he had a fifty-acre field of wheat that yielded forty-two and one-half bushels per acre. He has made the -bulk of his money in cattle and hogs. He has a fine feed lot with a never-failing spring that would afford water for one thousand head of stock. Mr. Coleman's family consists of a wife — who is a vevy estimable woman, — and four children, viz : William Edward, aged seventeen. Les- sie Olivia, Marshall Luella and Sena Eulalia. -Mr. Coleman is a Democrat and a member of the Woodmen Lodge of Glasco. The family are members of the Methodist church. STEPHEN A. NOWELS. S. A. Nowels is one of the substantial farmers and stockman of the Solomon valley and one of the most esteemed citizens of that community. He is a native of Holmes county, Ohio, born in 1844. He is a son of David and Mary (Waddell) Nowels. His father was of Yankee origin, born in Connecticut in 1792, and died at the age of sixty-three years. Mr. Nowels' paternal grandfather A\as a Revolutionary soldier and removed to Ohio in the early settlement of that state and located near the present city of Sandusky. Mr. Nowles served with distinction in the Civil war. He enlisted at the beginning of hostilities in Company B. Sixteenth Ohio Infantry, under Captain Ager, who was promoted colonel of another regiment and died before taking command. Their regiment was then placed under General DeCoursey. They took part in many engagements, among them the battles of Mill Springs, Cumberland Gap, Yazoo City, Arkansas Post, and Cham- pion Hill, where the line was broken and they lost many men. In the siege of Vicksburg Mr. Nowels took a severe cold and this, coupled with lying under the firing of" heavy artillery for six weeks, deafened him permanenth' to the extent of rendering it ^'ery difficult to converse with him. He was one HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 617 of the volunteers that ran the battery at Vicksburg, and was one of the most daring men on the force. Not a shot was fired as they passed Vicksburg. but at Warrensburg the Confederates fired into them to beat the mischief. From here he went into the Ninth Ohio Cavalry, under Captain Irving and Colonel Hamilton in command. He had served in the first company one year and nine months. He participated in the battle at Decatur, Alabama, and with Rosseau on his raid through Alabama and Mississippi, where they lost their horses and traveled five hundred miles on foot. At Big Shady forty-two of their men were killed. He was with Sherman on his march to the sea, and took part in the cavalry fight at Averysboro, where they had their last hard battle. This brigade also had a hard fight at Polecat Junction. They were scouting the greater part of the time in the Carolinas. Colonel Hamilton, who was promoted to brigadier-general, be- stowed upon Mr. Nowels a badge for courage and bravery. It is a silver medal surmounted by an eagle perched on a banner. On the scroll is en- graved the name of the recipient and the company of which he was a mem- ber. This was the only badge given in the company. Mr. Nowels was not commissioned but acted as sergeant most of the time during his service in the army. The hardest march his company tinderwent was to Cumberland Gap, a distance of two hundred and forty miles. They were reduced in rations, secured tin pans, pierced them witli nails and with these improvised instruments grated com for bread. Mr. Nowels had several narrow escapes. He received a wound on the leg between the knee and ankle at Yazoo City and was confined to the hospital two weeks. He was slightly wounded upon two other occasions, once in South Carolina, and again in Georgia. One ball tore his clothing and cut the buttons ofif his coat in close proximity to a vital part of his anatomy — the pit of his stomach. At one time, while stationed as guard, Mr. Nowels haet a Confederate in the woods and a duel ensued, the rebel shooting five times. Mr. Nowels' carbine refused to fire and with his pistols he poured out one shot; the fellow in gray laid down, put spurs to his horse, and rode rapidly away. Mr. Nowels was mustered out at Camp Chase, Ohio, October 2, 1865. He made a good record, never shirked duty nor joined the "condemned yank." After the war he returned to Ohio; a few months later he emi- grated to Iowa and subsequently to Nebraska, where he worked on the first railroad bridge that spanned the Missouri river in that state and worked on the Union Pacific Railroad from Omaha to Ogden. He has traveled exten- sively over the United States and has visited every state in the union but three. Mr. Nowels was married in Lawrence, Kansas, in 1871, to Alice Hill, who was formerly from Atliens county, Ohio. She came with her parents to Kansas in 1868 and settled in Lawrence. Her father was a native of Wales. He settled in Ohio, where he lived until coming to Kansas. His residence is now in Lincoln county. Her mother died in 1887. Mrs. Nowels is one of eight children. One brother, George Hill, is living near Denver, 6i8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Colorado ; two brothers, Charlie and Ray, in Idaho ; a brother, Ira, in Ore- gon, near The Dalles, and Frank, of Lincoln Center. The sister, Mrs. Phillips, resides in Lincoln county. By a second marriage there is one child, Pearl Hill. To Mr. and Mrs. Novvels have been born three children, viz : Guy S., a farmer living near Glasco; he married Hattie Elliott and they are the par- ents of one child, an infant. George W. is interested with his father and brother in farming. Mary L. was for three seasons successfully engaged in the millinery business in Glasco. She with her two brothers attended the opening of the Oklahoma strip. They all registered, but none of them suc- ceeded in drawing a claim. The Nowels took up their residence in Cloud county in 1890 and bought the Clinkbeard homestead, where they have prospered. They own two hun- dred and forty acres of land; the sons owfi an eighty adjoining, and all farm together. Their residence is a comfortable six-room house. Mr. Nowels keeps a herd of about seventy head of native cattle and has been very success- ful in hog raising, shipping about two car loads- per year. He has at all times supported the Republican party and is a strict partisan. He is a mem- ber of the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows of Glasco and of the Grand Army of the Republic. George is also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of Pythias. Mrs. Nowels and daughter are members of the Rebekahs. Mr. Nowels supports any enterprise that has for its object the well being of the community. He has met with more than an average degree of success in life and is a worthy citizen. JOHN TALG. It has been demonstrated by J. Talg, of Solomon township, that fruit of almost every description can be raised successfully and with profit in Cloud county, not only in abundance but of the finest flavor. Mr. Talg came to this county in 1880 and homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land in the hills that lie back of the Solomon river, built a comfortable dugout, which he still occupies, and proceeded to experiment in fruit raising. He has an apple orchard of four hundred trees that yield large and beautiful fruit, his crop in 1901 reaching three hundred bushels. He has six hundred peach trees, large orchards of pears and plums and a vineyard that yields quanti- ties of luscious grapes. Mr. Talg has a cellar filled with barrels of many varieties of wines and ciders. He is not only one of the most successful fruit growers of Cloud county but raises corn, and alfalfa, and keeps a herd of about thirty head of nati^^e cattle. Mr. Talg is a native of Prussia, Gemiany, born in 1835. He left his Fatherland in 1872, just after the Franco-Prussian war, in which he served three years. He also took part in the campaign against Austria in 1866. His father, Andrew Talg, was a fisherman and died in Germany in 1855. Mr. Talg's mother was Mary Shoen, also of German birth. She died in HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 619 1849. Mr. Talg is one of nine children, three of whom are hving, a brother and a sister, both living in Germany ; William, a shoemaker by trade, and JNIary. Mr. Talg, when a young man, learned the stone mason's trade. When thirtv-seven, years of age he emigrated to Baltimore, Maryland , where he worked at his trade imtil coming to Kansas in 1880; he returned to Prussia two rears later (1874), and was married to Louise Mary Hill. Two children have been born to this union, viz : Augusta, wife of Fred Hill, a tailor of Chicago, Illinois, and William, who is associated with his father on the farm. Mr. Talg is a Republican in politics. Both father and son are members of Lodge No. 214, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, of Simpson, Mitch- ell county, Kansas. The family are members of the Glasco congregation of the Lutheran church. Mr. Talg has a stone barn — with a basement — 27x27 feet in dimen- sionSj built in 1888. While he lives in a dugout, it is modern and neat in ap- pearance. His buildings are freshly painted and everything bespeakes the German thrift. JOHN BROWN. John Brown, the subject of this sketch, living just over the line in Ot- tawa county is considered a factor of the Glasco community. He is a patron of long standing of their town and connected with them socially, hence the name of this worthy man would be conspicuous by its absence among the highly esteemed citizens of that vicinity. Air. Brown is a native of Lanarkshire, Scotland, born in the town of Airdrie in 1839. Her parents were John and Christina (Thompson) Brown. His father was born June 13, 1808, in Linlithgow Parish, Scotland. He enlisted in the English army early in life, but his father objected to his be- coming a soldier and bought him off. He then learned the tinner's trade and later turned his attention to mining. He died February 21, i860. Mr. Brown's mother was born in Sterlingshire Parish, Scotland, February 7, 1806, and died in July, 1889, at the age of eighty-three years. Mr. Brown is the fourth of a family of nine children, all were born in Scotland; five of that number are living. Mr. Brown received a common school education in his native town and when he attained the age of twenty-one years, he emigrated to America, landing in Humboldt county, California on the 13th day of October, 1861, where he found employment in the Vance saw mill located at Eureka. Four months later he enlisted in Company A, Third California Infantry under Captain Thomas E. Ketchum and Colonel Pollick, -spending four and one- half years scouting through California, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming and Dakota. He is the original "John Brown and his 'little Injun'." Their company was divided into three squads of twenty-five men each; one company re- 620 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. maining in the temporary camp while the other three scouted and were re- lieved alternately by those in camp. Mr. Brown was with Ketchum's men ■\\'ho were the first to make an attack bringing in a dozen and a half prisoners, among them squaws and papooses. Their guide, Joe Bartlett, in advance, entered the red-woods and came on the "Ranchee." All were surprised Indians and soldiers alike, for they were not aware of being in such close proximity lo each other. As the Indians were on a narrow trail traveling single file, the guide fired killing one of their number. The Captain stood at the "Ranchee" imtil every man was stationed according to orders. Mr. Brown was the last man to come in line and he was ordered to fix bayonets and stand guard over the sqtiaws and papooses, while many of the Indian braves were wounded and dying. He walked to and fro that none might escape and while doing so discovered a fish basket moving away and upon examination found a little Indian boy concealed underneath it and brought him away captive. His father was dead and the mother dying. The little fellow was making his escape under an eel basket. The boy's parents were killed by the same bullet. The savage was running before his squaw that her body might serve as a shield to save him, but the same bullet dealt death to both. In this attack fourteen bucks and one squaw were killed. The hayersacks contained but a few day's rations but they shared them among their captives. The prisoners were divided among the men to take into camp, making seven to each man. The "little Injun," who was about ten years of age, was among those allotted to David L. Christ, and the little fellow would keep falling back among Mr. Brown's company, seemingly thinking he would find protection with him. Mr. Brown, touched by the child's preference, suggested an exchange of prisoners, which was granted, and he clung to Mr. Brown in an afl^ectionate manner and seemed to enjoy a feeling of security under his care. When the regiment arrived at their camp. Fort Baker, Mr. Brown took his little capti\'e down to the VanDusen river, cut his hair, gave him a bath, and dressed him in an old fatigue dress altered for the purpose, providing him with bedding in a bell tent, and in a short time a remarkable attachment grew up between them. The "little Injim" evidently looked upon Mr. Brown as his benefactor and would follow him like an affectionate dog, ready to do his least bidding. Frank W. Cole and Hank McHirwon (the latter now of Pender, Ne- braska) each took an Indian boy, who were domiciled together. They brought them to .Stockton where the troops were ordered to meet for a march to Salt Take City. Mr. Cole gave his boy to a friend, at Stockton: Mr. McHirwon and Mr. Brown took theirs with them via Captain Ketchum's ranch to San Francisco. They took them upon the boat for something to eat and the In- dians were spell bound by the glitter of the interior. It was like the "Tale of the Arabian Knights" to them and they could not eat. The next morning Captain Ketchum called, and ordered these boys left for the reason that they could not stand the march. There was nothing to do but obey orders though HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 621 Mr. Brown's intentions were to keep his protege. He was already being ci\'ilizecl and conld send him to the markets for fruit, etc. When the boy found they were to be separated he clasped Mr. Brown around the thighs, wept and wailed in a piteous manner and Mr. Brown was deeply grieved to leave him, and from this incident came the verse, "John Brown had a 'little Injun','' which was attached to the song, "John Brown's body," etc. Mr. Brown experienced many hardships on this expedition and he often awoke to find several inclies of snow on his blanket. This company es- tablished the noted Fort Douglas, near Salt Lake City, which has since become one of the famous forts of the country. Mr. Brown visited Fort Douglas in 1896, and remarked a great change. After the war he was recommended by his Colonel and a comrade of his company to Ellis & Brothers, wholesale liquor dealers of Salt Lake City, also dry goods, groceries, etc., where he received employment, remaining one year. He then engaged in mining in the silver mines of the Little Cotton- wood Canyon. Li 1868, during the excitement at Stillwater, he visited that locality but finding no inducements he entered the Green River country of Wyoming, where he opened a coal mine at Rock Springs station, nineteen miles distant, recorded it, but did not have the means to open the mine and returned to Green River, formed a company and manufactured adobe brick. His next venture was at Fort Bridger, where he sunk oil wells at Quak- ing Asp Springs, and from there he engaged on the contract given by Brig- ham Young for the running of a tunnel through the Weber Canyon. In 1869, he located in Sand Springs, a station in Dickinson county, Kansas, and in 1870 homesteaded government land on Mortimer Creek, and one year subsequently removed to Ohio, where he worked in an iron factory at Salineville five years, and two years in an iron factory in Cleveland. He came to Ottawa county, in 1878, and bought the tiling of a timber claim of Flenry Sheets. There were no improvements and only two or three acres of ground broken. Air. Brown improved this claim and has built for han- sel f a comfortable home. Fie owns one hundred .md twenty acres of land. His chief products are wheat, com and alfalfa. Mr. Brown was married June 19, 1867, to Elizabeth Hillhouse, a sister of Robert and John Hillhouse. She died February 15, 1897, at the age of forty-seven years. They were the parents of nine children, seven of whom are living. Margaret, the eldest daughter, is an intelligent and excellent young woman and since her mother's death she has been housekeeper for her father and brothers. Cliristina is the wife of Moses Bucy, a farmer of Cloud countv ; they are the parents of one little daughter, Myrtle Elizabeth. Jchn and William, the two sons, operate the farm, Mr. Brown having retired from active farm life. Nellie, married Thomas Stratton, a prosperous far- mer and stockman of Ottawa county; they are the parents of one child, a little son. Dean. Jeanette and Effie, the two youngest daughters li\-e at home. Mr. Brown is a Republican in politics. He is a member of the Grand 37 62 2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Army of the Republic of Glasco. The sons, WiUiam and John, are members of the order of Woodmen of Glasco. Mr. Brown has just completed one of the most beautiful and unique caves the writer has ever seen. It is an excavation in the hill side — a perfect arch chiseled out of the solid and vari-colored rock which forms the ceiling, walls and floor. The stone of various hues and quality is formed in layers or strata which are made more pleasing by the markings of the workmen's chisel. This cave is a gem in its way and it is doubtful if its equal could be found in any locality. FREDERICK PETERSON BECK. "Happy Home Farm," owned by F. P. Beck, is one of the finest stock and fruit farms in the counLry. Mr. Beck is a native of Denmark, born in Sleswig in 1857. He is a son of Peter Hanson Beck, who died when Mr. Beck was an infant six months old. His mother was Kjersten Hansen, also of Denmark. Mr. Beck is the youngest of three children born to this union — a brother, Hans Beck, whose sketch immediately follows and a sister Mary, who married Hans Broudelund (both are now deceased, the husband dying in New Zealand). Mrs. Beck was three times married. Her second huusband was Jacob Jorgenson, who died in 1886. To their union four chil- dren were born, three of whom are living, viz : Caroline, wife of Fred Thesman, a successful farmer of California ; he harvests many acres of wheat annually. Peter, a farmefr of Solomon township; Jens, a butcher, living in Denmark. The third marriage was with Christian Hansen; no children were born to this union. The mother never having emigrated to America, died in Denmark in April, 1900. When Mr. Beck attained his majority he began his career working by the month, ^^'hen coming to America he had no capital. He first located in Mitchell county in the year 1877 and obtained work on the farm of Mathias Nelson. In 1873, he homesteaded land in the hills of Solomon township, as all the first, second and third bottom lands were taken by those who came earlier. About this time he married, and took his bride to the little dugout he had prepared for her. Its dimensions were about I2xi2-feet, iiiinus both floor and windows. "Though poverty came in at the door,'" lo\-e did not fly out at the windo\\-. Perhaps none were more industrious and frugal than this worth}- couple. Their beautiful country place bespeaks the result of hard- ships and many weary hours of toil. In 1890, Mr. Beck sold his homestead and bought his present farm which he has put in a fine condition. In 1898, he erected a handsome imposing residence of eight rooms. This house is modern, completely finished and furnished. In 1894, he built a splendid barn. Mr. Beck has one of the' best apple orchards in Cloud county, which is his especial pride. It consists of two hundred trees that are heavily loaded with the rarest fruit. This year (1901) the yield was three HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 623 hundred bushels. He has been very successful as a horticulturist and sets out a few trees each year. His apple orchard presents a beautiful sight, loaded with the crimson and golden fruit. He also has large quantities of pears, peaches, apricots, cherries, etc. Mr. Beck is a large wheat grower. Besides his home place he owns "Wheat Valley Farm,'' one of the finest in any land, opposite G. W. Hus- sey's place, and recently he purchased the "Oak Leaf Farm," a valuable estate consisting of two hundred and forty acres, which makes his landed possessions a total of five hundred and sixty acres. He keeps a herd of about twenty-fi\'e head of nati^^e cattle and in corn years from one hundred to two hundred head of hogs. Because of his love for horses, Mr. Beck has given special atteiition to the raising of horses and mules. He breeds roadsters of the Hamblevonian stock and has some fine specimens in his stables. Pohtically Mr. Beck is a populist and a prominent figure in the con- ventions of the county. He has held the offices of constable and road over- seer of liis township and is a member of the school board. The family are members of the Lutheran church. Mrs. Beck, who has been his true helpmate all through their married life, is a refined and gentle woman. She is a native of Denmark, where she grew to womanhood in the same locality with her husband, and where they were engaged to be married. Mr. Beck proceeded to America to prepare their home in the New E.mpire. Her father is Nicoli Henry Hanson. He came to America in 1884 and is now living with his daughter at the age of eighty-eight years. The Hansens are of German origin. Mrs. Beck's mother died in 1883. She is one of eight children, five of whom are living. Three are in Denmark. A sister, Maren Christine, is the wife of Hans Asmussen, a farmer of Solomon township. To Mr. and Mrs. Beck eight children have been born, five of whom are living. Peter, twenty-two years of age is married and rents part of his father's farm. Henry, associated with his brother in farming. Christina deceased in 1899, at the age of fourteen years. Grief over the loss of this daughter has broken the health of Mrs. Beck. Jacob, Willis, and Eliza- beth; the three latter at home. HANS F. P. BECK. H. F. P. Beck, like many of his countrj^men, left his native land to se- cure a home in A.merica. He was born in Denmark in 1853, and is a brother of Fred Beck. At llie age of eighteen years he emigrated to this country and reached his destination, Solomon City with less than five dollars where he worked as a day laborer on a farm, on the railroad as a section hand, and in the livery stable of McGrafif & Hollingsworth. In 1875, Mr. Beck bought the filing of the Kimball claim, which he homesteaded. About the only im- 624 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. provements were a log house with a dirt floor, where they continued to live nine years and where six of their children were born. Mr. Beck was married in 1877, to Karen Peterson, a young woman who came over from Denmark with Fred Beck, a brother of her intended husband. Her parents came to America in 1883. Her mother died twelve days after their arrival and her father four years later. Mrs. Beck is one of four chil- dren, three of whom are living. Jens Peterson, a farmer of Mitchell county, just. over the Cloud county line, is a brother, and Mrs. Haider Halderson, who lives near Glasco, is » sister. To Mr. and Mrs. Beck nine children have been born, seven of whom are living- — all daughters, estimable and prepossessing young women. Martha, \yife of Edmond Bennett, an Oklohoma farmer. Mary, wife of Herbert Dalrymple. Kjerstine, Anna, Emma, Serena and Rosa. Frederica, a young woman of nineteen years died in 1900. Mr. Beck's farm consists of one hundred and sixty acres situated in the remote south-west corner of Cloud county. His land comers with both Mitchell and Ottawa counties. His chief products are wheat, corn and Kaf- fir corn, cattle and hogs. In 1886, he erected a large and substatianl stone residence. He built a barn in 1890, 20 by 3.6 feet in dimensions, with corn cribs on either side. Mr. Beck is a Populist in politics. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen lodge of Glasco and the Royal Neighbors. The family are members of the Lutheran church. PIERCE E. BUTLER. Among the citizens of Celtic origin who have become thoroughly Ameri- canized and closely associated with the farming and stock raising indus- try in Kansas is P. E. Butler of Lyon township. Mr. Butler has also gained prominence at the bar as one of the able attorneys of Cloud county. He has fully borne out the repritation of that class of energetic men of Irish nativity who have risen conspicuously in business, social and professional circles. Jtlr. Butler was born in Dublin, in 1838. His parents were Timothy and .\nn (Nolan) Butler, both born in the city of Dublin. In 1847, they emigrated to America and settled in Madison, Wisconsin, where Mr. Butler was educated in the common schools. His father died March 24, 1 865 ; his mother died August 12, 1854. There was a family of nine children, all of whom died in infancy except three sons, two of whom were killed in the Civil war, John F. fell on the day of the assault on Vicksburg and George ^V died at home from a gunshot wound received in the United States serv- ice. Thus Mr. Butler is the only remaining member of his father's family. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted in Company F, One Hundred and Eleventh Wisconsin Infantry, serving his adopted country four years, two months and three days. His regiment was under the command of sev- eral noted generals— Plaileck, McClellan and Grant. He was with :\Iajor HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 625 N. P. Banks on Red River and Major General E. O. C. Ord at Mobile, Ala- bama. He was in the following regular engagements : Peach Orchard, A/'irginia; Port Hudson, Jackson, Champion Hills, Mississippi, Black River Bridge, and the assault on Vicksburg, September 22, 1863, and Fort Esper- anza, Texas; Mr. Butler always had a desire to visit Texas but not in that capacity. He had an arm broken and received a wound in the foot at Fort Blakely, Alabama. He witnessed the fall of Mobile. Prior to the war Mr. Butler had read law in the office of George B. Smith. • After his return home he piu'sued his studies in the office of Welch & Kissnm, attorneys of Madison, Wisconsin, at the same time teaching school. In 1869, he emigrated to Iowa and one year later to Kansas where he secured his present farm, his original homestead, when there were but few settlers in the present community and where a few buffalo were still passing and numerous antelope. Mr. Butler continued his pedagogical following which assisted him out of many financial straits. He taught two years in No. 47; this district was organized in 1873. They voted bonds and built a one thousand dollar stone school building. The first board of officers were D. J. Fowler, director; Thomas Butler, treasurer, George Billings, " clerk. Mr. Butler taught three years in District No. 6, one year in No. 22, and one year in No. 58. In 1894, he was admitted to the bar of Kansas, and the same year received the nomi- nation from the Populist party for county attorney of Cloud county, but Mr. Butler was on the wrong ticket, and in 1901, when he ran for represen- tati\e. At both elections he polled a large vote but the party was not in favor. Mr. Butler was married April 4, 1869, to Miss Mary E. Hughes, who was bom in Boston, Massachusetts, and emigrated with her parents to Wis- consin when she was seven years old. Her paternal ancestors were of Irish origin, while her maternal ancestors were English. Her mother's father was a distinguished Episcopal minister. To Mr. and Mrs. Butler have been born an interesting family of nine children, all of whom are living and occupy places of prominence. His daughters are exceptionally bright and intelligent women and very successful as educators. Mr. Butler has given his children the advantages for acquir- ing an education and they have improved them to the utmost. The children are: Josephine is the wife of Wilford Menard, and they reside in Chi- cago. She is a graduate from the Salina Normal school and was a success- ful teacher in this state and also in Michigan. Kate, the second daughter, has occupied a place in tlie eighth grade of the Concordia high school for a number of years. She taught in the country districts and one year in the Beloit schools and is one of the few teachers of Cloud county exempt from examination, holding a state certificate. Timothy J. holds a position in the census department. He was a student of the Agricultural College of Man- hattan one year, of the Madison Wisconsin University two years and gradu- ated from the law department of the Kansas University in 1899. He gradu- 626 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ated from the University of Washington in diplomacy and jurisprudence. While finishing a course at the Columbia Law School, he is filling the posi- tion in the census office with the ultimate intention of following the pro- fession of law. Margaruite, wife of Walter B. Davis, a Cloud county far- mer, was also a teacher. Frances, who has been a teacher for a period of fi\e years, is now employed in District No. 58. Belle, a graduate of the Con- cordia High school, class of 1901, will follow in her sisters' footsteps and teach the present year. Rosa, a school girl in attendance at District No. 47, has given her attention to music rather than teaching. Clara, graduated from the common schools in 1901, and is now a student of the Concordia high school. Eugene, a bright lad of twelve years, completes the famil)'. Mr. Butler owns two hundred and forty-five acres of ground which is mostly wheat land. In an exhibit at the World's Fair in Chicago, in 1893. he was awarded a beautiful bronze medal for the best quality of red winter wheat. Mr. Butler along M'ith Mr. Collins, who was interested in the exposi- tion, selected a bushel of wheat. His exhibit was taken from bulk in the gran- ary just as it was threshed from the machine. The yield per acre was thirty- four bushels, weight sixty-one and one-half pounds. The award was one of twenty-nine received in the state on threshed wheat, and one of two that came to Cloud county, which \\'as not included in the wheat belt at that date. Mr. Butler with his family live in a commodious, imposing, two-story residence of twelve rooms. He has a small but well bearing apple orchard. In March, 1880, he brought into the country one of the first herds of Short- horn cattle. The family are members of the Roman Catholic church. Mr. Butler is a member of the Society of Elks, of Concordia. GEORGE W. BEERS. G. W. Beers was a Kansas pioneer who settled in Osawatomie in 1868. In the autumn of 1870, he came to Cloud county, and filed on a homestead in Solomon township, the farm v/here he now lives. Mr. Beers and Conrad Romizer are the only original settlers on this part of Fisher creek. ^Ir. Beers is a nati^-e of Elmira, New York, born in 1836. Before attaining his majority he had learned the stone mason's trade and worked two and one- half years in a printing office, where practically speaking he received his education. His father was George W. Beers, a coach maker, who built the first stage coach that ran on the turnpike from Geneva to Canandaigua. Mr. Beer's mother was Harriet Jemima (Huggett) Beers. She was of English birth, born near the city of London, and with her parents crossed the water when she was fifteen vears of age, and settled in Ontario, New York. When Mr. Beers was a small boy his father died and his mother when he was a youth of sixteen. In 1856, Mr. Beers located in Iroquois county, Illinois, where he worked on a farm by the month until 1862, when he en- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 627 listed in Company D, 113th Jllinois Volunteers under Captain Lucas and Colonel George B. Hoge. Their movements were confined principally to the Missippi river between Memphis and Vicksburg. In December, 1862, he was with (jencral Sherman at Vicksburg and Arkansas Post; from the latter point he was carried to the hospital where he was discharged from the service in December, 1863, on account of disability, and was thus cut short in his army career which imposed upon him a great disappointment. During Mr. Beers' service in the army his w'lie sent him a picture of herself by an orderly sergeant, who had it taken from him by the rebels while on board the "'Blue Wing" whose crew were taken prisoners. Two weeks later they were paroled and the picture sent back to the orderly ^vith the message: "Tell that 'Yank' that all weins have got to say, is, he's got a d ^d good looking wife." An enlarged portrait of this historical old daguerrotype adorns the walls of the Beers home. After the war Mr. Beers resumed farming in Illinois, until 1868, when he came to Kansas. When Mr. Beers settled in Solomon township with his wife and family of children he had but five dollars, a team, and wagon. Al- though the outlook was discouraging he nevei- faltered. He farmed in sum- mer and worked in the saw mill at Glasco in winter for the small wages of one dollar per da}-. In the winter of 1874-5 he ran an engine at a saw mill in Minneapolis, Kansas, for one dollar and fifty cents per day and boarded himself. The Beers family have undergone many hardships — have sat around their frugal board and watched the last morsal of bread disappear not know- ing from what source the next would be provided. In 1875, Mr. Beers re- sumed his trade of stone mason. Prior to this period there was but little or no demand for stone masons in the Solomon Valley. He erected the first stone building in Glasco and many of those that followed, including the Oakes House and the bank building. Many of the stone structures through- out the valley are monuments of his architecture. His own residence is of stone, built by himself at intervals when not employed on other work. It is a comfortable eight room house. Mr. Beers quarried the stone, did his own masonry, plastering and mo.st of the carpentering. His farm is well improved with good out buildings and a big orchard with three hundred trees. His land is largely wheat ground. In 1901, a field of fifty acres yielded twenty-seven and one-half bushels to the acre. Mr. Beers was married in i860, to Miss Esther A. Johnson of Belfast, New York. Of their family of ten children nine are living: Anna Laura, deceased wife of Leander Doty (she left four children) ; John W., a farmer; Alice, wife of Wade Cook, of Ames; Edward, who farms with his father; William, the first white male child born in Solomon township, is a plumber (he was a soldier in the Spanish-American war. His Regiment, the 33d Michigan, participated in the battle of San Juan and the destruction of Ce- vera's fleet. When his services were no longer required he returned to his family, which consists of a wife and little son, Leslie Carl. Their home' i,<; 62 8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in Owosso, Michigan) ; Clara and Harriet, are unmarried and living at home; Joseph H. and Junius W., are twins, aged twenty-two years. Mr. Beers is a Republican in politics. The family are members of the United Brethren church and take an ardent interest in church affairs. It was chiefly through the efforts of Mr. Beers that Reverend O. Beistle preached his first sermon in the old court house of Concordia. JACOB FRANKS. Jacob Franks is one of the solid men of Solomon township. He was born December i8, 1841, within a few miles of Portland, which is the county seat of Jay county, Indiana. His parents were Aaron and Sarah (First) Franks, who were of Pennsylvania birth and reared in Fayette county. Aaron Franks was one of eleven children. Tlis paternal grandfather was Jacob Franks, who came from Germany to Pennsylvania in a very early day and established the hr.st church in that section of the country near the head waters of Jacob's creek, from which it takes it name, the Jacob's Evangelical Lutheran church; the creek was also named for him. He bought a farm and gave it to the society and they built a church which was called the "Dutch meeting house," as the majority of the people were Germans. About fifty years ago this church was replaced with a brick edifice which is still in good condition. Mr. Frank's maternal grandparents were of Dutch origin. His grand- father ran away at the age of thirteen years without au)^ money, and crossed the water. When he landed on American soil the ship's captain bound him as an apprentice to a cooper for three years that he might pay for his passage across the water. He served his apprenticeship and continued with his em- ployer four years longer. Having attained his majority he went to Pennsyl- \ania ^vhere he took a tomahawk right to a piece of land where he lived until his death. He was the father of thirteen children, one of whom was Sarah First, our subject's mother. Jacob was a famih' name with both the Franks and the Firsts. Aaron Franks and Sarah First were married and moved westward to Ohio, settling in Licking county, where three of their family of children were born. Being desirous of securing more and cheaper land they moved to Indi- ana -where he bought a quarter of timbered government land which cost $1.25 per acre. Being a new country' it was very unhealthy and the two eld- est children died. Aaron Franks was drowned in 1842. Mrs. Franks, the widow and mother, took her three remaining children and returned to Penn- sA'lvania where she became housekeeper for a bachelor brother who proved a benefactor. Mrs. Franks took care of him during his last illness and was well repaid for her services. Mr. Franks' mother died in Pennsylvania in 1875 at the age of seventy-five years. In 1863, Mr. Franks married Sarah Caldron of Fayette county, where they both had grown to manhood and womanhood in the same circle of ac- quaintances. In the autumn of 1880, twenty-three years ago, they came to HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 629 Cloud county and purchased of Reed P. Bracken the quarter section of land where they now live, four miles northwest of Glasco. Mrs. Franks is of German origin. Her paternal great-grandfather emigrated from Germany to Fayette county, in the early settlement of the state of Pennsylvania, and lived there until the death of himself and wife. Her father was Ellis Cal- dron, a farmer, who died in 1872. Her mother died in 1892. To Mr. and Mrs. Franks seven children have been born, five of whom are, living. Miles, deceased at the age of thirty-one years, leaving a wife, Celia (Benson} Franks, and little daughter Edna. He was a farmer of Solomon town- ship. He died in 1896. Andrew J., a farmer of Solomon township, whose wife was Fannie Weaver, a daughter of Nicolas Weaver of Solomon town- ship. They have one child, Audrey Beryl. William, a resident and miner of Goldfield, Colorado. His wife is Lydia Ulery of Pennsylvania. They have one child, Thelma. Dora, deceased when an infant. Charles (see sketch), Lester and Bessie are at home. Mr. Franks' only sister is Mrs. Peter Miller of Dunkirk, Indiana. Mr. Fi-anks has improved his farm, built a large stone residence, and in 1899 built a basement barn 32 by 42 by 12 feet in height, and shortly afterward added one hundred and sixty acres adjoining his land on the south. Most of his farm is wheat land. Wheat raising is his chief industry and several years has had a yield of from twenty to thirty bushels per acre. Mr. Franks is a Populist, has served as township treasurer several times and has been a member of the school board. The family are members of the Baptist church, Asherville congregation. REVEREND JOHN NESBITT BEAVER, The subject of this sketch is Elder Beaver, present pastor of the Christ- ian churches at Osborn and Asherville. Elder Beaver is a native of North Carolina, born in 185 1, at Statesville, county seat of Iredell county. His father was Eli Beaver, a miller by profession. The family emigrated to Illinois, in 1867, and settled in Biggsville, Henderson county, where Eli Beaver operated the Biggs flouring mill. In the early eighties he moved to Kansas and became associated with the mills at Delphos and Simpson, under the firm name of Kyser,_ Beaver & Company. His health failing, he sought the milder climate of Tennessee where he died in 1886. The Beaver ancestors were of German origin and settled in the colony known as the Penn- sylvania Dutch in the early settlement of that state and in 1760, located in North Carolina. Reverend Beaver's mother was Lavina Beaver. Their fathers were of the same name, David Beaver, but in no way related. She died thirty-nine days prior to the death of her husband. Elder Beaver is the youngest of two children, himself and an invalid sister who never walked from the time she was two and one-half years old, and died in 1887. Elder Beaver received a common school education during their residence in Illinois, and entered upon the profession of miller, saw 630 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. miller and engineer, and ran an engine for several years. While engaged in the mercantile business in Glasco in 1884-5, he traded for the farm on which he now lives. In 1887, he began a correspondence Bible course with Ashley S. John- son of Kimberland Heights, Tennessee. In the year 1888, was ordained to the ministry and assumed his labors in the Christian church at Glasco. Dur- ing the winter of that year took charge of the churches at Mayview, Jewell county, and Ada, Ottawa county. He began his evangelical work at May- view and nine days' labor resulted in the addition of fifty-one converts. He held other successful revivals that year. His work continued in Ada and Mayview three years. During the years 189 1-2-3, he labored in Randall, and preached to the Star church organization in Jewell county. For five years, beginning with 1893, he took charge of the work at Waterville and Miltonvale. His special work has been, building, remodeling churches, and paying off indebtedness. When he entered upon the charge at Randall so encumbered were they with debt, they were about to throw up the work. Through the efforts of Elder Beaver they were reorganized and put in a prosperous condition. The same conditions existed at Delphos and Milton- vale, the latter laboring under a debt of eight hundred dollars. At Osborn they were set free by the paying off of a four hundred dollar debt and in 1900 he built and dedicated a new house of worship at Asherville. During the twelve years of his ministry Elder Beaver has baptized seven hundred converts, and has been instrumental in the paying off of seven church debts that were almost hopeless. He has united one hundred couples in matri- mony and he has received more people into the church at Glasco than any other pastor. During a revival of four weeks duration there were forty- six converts. Elder Beaver was married, in 1872, to Miss Margaret E. Patrick, a daughter of Robert and Mary (Lane) Patrick. Mrs. Beaver was born and reared in Boone county, Illinois and came to Kansas with her parents in 1870. Robert Patrick took up a homestead on Mortimer creek where he died in 1879. Mrs. Patrick was married, in 1881, to T. J. McCullough, who died in 1890. Mrs. McCullough now resides in Glasco. Elder Beaver's family of children consists of two sons ; Robert Eli, a farmer living one mile southwest of Concordia. He was married to Lo- rena S. Best and to this union three children have been born; Gladys, Nes- bitt and Roy. The youngest son George Henry, a young man who has just reached his majority, is a mute, the affliction having been brought about by an illness when an infant. He was a student of the Olathe school for mutes, and is a bright and ambitious young man, who reads and writes fluently. He had desired a higher education, but his health would not pei'mit of such close confinement. He thrives better in the country and loves farm life. Elder Beaver has one hundred and sixty acres of highly improved land. In 1 886, he built a commodious house of eleven rooms and a barn 44 by 44 feet in dimensions. This country place bears the name of "Our Orchard HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 631 Farm," and has one of the finest bearing orchards in the community. Among them are one hundred and fifty Genitan apple trees that bear largely each alternate year and many other varieties. Some of the trees are twenty years old and are abundant fruit bearers. He has a four-year-old orchard of peaches, pears and small fruit that seldom ever fails to yield largely. Politically Elder Eeaver is a Prohibitionist. At one time he was a Ma- son and a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias and Sons and Daughters of Justice, but when he went into the min- istry he dropped the lodges. "Our Orchard Farm" is one of the mose beau- tiful homes in the vicinity of Glasco, where Elder Beaver and his estimable wife expect to enjoy that rest so desirable in the latter part of life's journey when one feels the evening shades approaching. Elder Beaver is a man of large individuality, broad minded and liberal in his views and much beloved by the members of his various parishes. SAMUEL P. FRANKS. One of the early pioneers of the Solomon valley is S. P. Franks, who came to Washington county, Kansas with E. C. Davidson in 1869, and the following winter took a homestead in Cloud county, three miles northwest of the present site of Glasco, where he built a dugout, and as he dryly re- marked "batched with the coyotes and rattle snakes'' until he was married in 1880. Mr. Franks lived in Ohio, the state of his nativity, until he was fifteen years of age. He was born on a farm in Franklin county, in 1849. T-'^e Franks are of German extraction and settled among the Pennsylvania Dutc?i in the pioneer days of that state. His father, Jacob Franks, moved to Illi- nois, in 1864, and five years later emigrated to Knasas, where like all the early settlers, they experienced many hardships. S. P- Franks has killed numerous buffalo on the Kansas prairies, bring- ing down as many as a quarter of a hundred in one expedition, thus helping to "keep the wolf from the door." In 1875, he was one of the fifty or sixty men who hauled goods sent by the government for the grasshopper sufferers. He held h's homestead and managed to eke out an existance by doing ma- sonry and stone work which he learned soon after coming to- Kansas. In 1884, he sold his original homestead to E. C. Davidson, and bought a farm on Third creek, in Solomon township, where he has lived sixteen years. Mr. Franks was married, in 1880, to Carrie A. Billingsly who came with her parents from Iowa to Kansas, in 1876, and settled in Solomon township. Her father is William Billingsly, now living in Mitchell county. She is one of eleven children, all of whom but one are living in Kansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Franks have beai bom five children, viz : Gertrude, wife of Augustus Teasley, a farmer of Solomon township; Amy, Nora, Edith, and Raymond, a little son of six years. Mr. Franks has considerable fruit on his farm. He has a herd of about fifty head of native cattle. He 632 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. still works at his trade and has assisted in constructing- some of the best buildings in the Solomon valley. He is an honest and industrious man. When asked about his politics he replied "I think I am, and always will be, a Democrat." He is a member of the Glasco lodge of Odd Fellows. Mrs. Franks is a member of the Rebekahs. CHARLES NEWTON FRANKS. The subject of this sketch is C. W. Franks, a son of Jacob Franks. He came to Kansas when five years old; was educated in District No. 58 and he Glasco High School. Mr. Franks is a rising young farmer and stock man; hog raising is his chief industry. He owns a tract of forty acres with a neat cottage home and farms a part of his father's land. He was married in 1898, to Luella Snyder, who is one of the excellent daughters of Captain and Mrs. Snyder, and was one of Cloud county's popu- lar teachers for more than eight years. She graduated from the Glasco high school in 1890, and entered upon a career of teaching at No. 18. Politically Mr. Franks is a Republican. He is a member of Glasco lodge. Knights of Pythias. Pie and his wife are regular attendants at the Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mrs. Franks is a member. WILLIAM JORDAN. William' Jordan, an old resident of the Solomon valley, -came to Cloud county from Cornwallis A^alley, Nova Scotia, in 1870. He came 'with his wife and children and his children's children to make homes in the "Far West," and consequently ticketed to Topeka, where they came in contact with emigrants who were enroute to Smith county and induced the Jor- dan's to join them with that destination in view. As they passed through the beautiful Solomon valley they were pleased with the country and its prospects, but went on into .Smith county. The outlook in that county not being to their liking they returned shortly afterward to what they deemed a more civilized country and took up the homesteads where they still live. Mr. Jordan's parental grandfather was of English birth and lived and died on the estate A^-here he -was born. His father emigrated to the rugged shores of Nova Scotia before the Revolutionary war. Mr. Jordan's maternal ancestors were of German -origin and settled in Connecticut prior to the Revolutionary war and rather than become traitors to their mother country during that period they removed to Nova Scotia. Mr. Jordan was married to Elizabeth Ward in 1846. All of their eight children but one are living in Cloud county. Aaron Edmond is a fanner of Meredith towriship-; Anna J., an unmarried daughter at home; Lavina, wife of M. L. Woodward, of Glasco (see sketch) ; Celeste, wife of C. E. Martin of Lane county, Kansas; Norman, a farmer of the Solomon valley; Judith, wife of S. W Waggoner, a farmer of Arion township; Eu- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 633 nice, Avife of A. D. Atkinson, a farmer of Cloud county, and Everett, whose sketch immediately follows. Mr. Jordan has three hundred and sixty acres of land which is nearly all wheat ground. Mr. Jordan is a Populist in politics. EVERETT W. JORDAN. Everett W. Jordan, a son of William Jordan, is one of the rising young men of Lyon township. When six years of age he came with his parents from Nova Scotia to Kansas and remains a resident in the community where he was educated and grew to manhood, and where the family settled in 1870. He is one of the young men who have "grown up with the country," and has witnessed the wilderness don its robes of prosperity. The Jordan's first residence in Kansas was a blacksmith shop and later they built the first stone residence in their neighborhood. At the age of seventeen years, Mr. Jordan's father gave him his time and rented him the farm. That season 1882, he raised an enormous yield of corn and cleared $500. The following year he bought the old Halleck homestead and built a four-room cottage 24 by 24 feet in dimensions, and otherwise improved the place. He bought the original Adrastus Newell home- stead in 1898, which is adjacent, making a half section in his farm and one of the best properties in the county. He changed his residence to the latter farm, added to and remodeled the house, and made a comfortable place of abode of the old cabin which was one of the old landmarks of the Solomon valley. This was the stronghold of the community where the settlers gathered to protect themseh'es against the Indian depredations. Openings were left between the logs for port holes. While the cabin was in course of construct- ion the settlers worked with Winchesters strapped to their backs, while with a held glass one of their number kept an outlook for the approach of the savages. Mr. Jordan's land is well watered and timbered, Chris creek rumiing through his farm. He has a shed on the creek bank which affords excellent shelter and feeding facilities for his stock. Most of his land is wheat ground with two hundred acres under cultivation. The season of 1900 he had a yield of fifteen hundred bushels of wheat. Mr. Jordan raises considerable stock ; keeps a herd of about' forty native cattle, fifteen head of horses, ten of-them work horses, and from fifty to sixty head of hogs. Mr. Jordan was married in 1892, to Pet Sterling, a popular and suc- cessful teacher of Cloud county, for five years. She was a graduate of the Concordia High School, class of May 16, 1888. She graduated at the age of sixteen taking the last two years' course in twelve months. She is a daughter of John C. and Margaret (Chadwick) Sterling. Mrs. Jordan came from near Des Moines with her parents to Kansas when about eight years of age and settled on a farm near Jamestown, mov- ing into Concordia one year later where her father represented a sewing ma- 634 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. chine company, and was well known throughout the county. He was a nati^'e of Illinois, and when a young man moved to Missouri where he ten- dered his services to sustain the flag of the Union, but was rejected on ac- count of an unsound ankle which had been broken. Affairs waxed too warm, in Missouri and he emigrated tq Iowa where he livea uiu., coming to Kansas. He was a school teacher in his early life in the state of Missouri, and here he met Margaret Chadwick as one of his pupils, the young woman who afterward became his wife. Mr. Sterling died after a long and pain- ful illness in the city of Concordia in the springtime of 1901. The Chadwicks were of English origin and there is an estate in England that has been in litigation for several years. Mrs. Sterling was born in Ken- tucky, and with her parents came to Missouri. She was a pupil of her father and all their eldest children received their early educa:tion under his tutorage. Mrs. Sterling now lives in Concordia but expects soon to make a permanent home with her daughter, Mrs. Jordan. To Mr. and Mrs. Sterling eleven children were born, eight now living. Olive, wife of Joe Glasgow, a farmer near Courtland, Kansas (she was a teacher for ten years, was principal of the Garfield school in Concordia for three years and taught in the grammar department of the Belleville graded schools three years. Mrs. Glasgow is a woman of literary tastes. She is the mother of two children, Gwendolen and DeWayne) ; C. A., familiarly known as "Bob" Sterling, a furniture dealer of Clyde (he is married and has one child, a little son, Worth) ; Rose, a dress-maker of Concordia; Lem- uel, with his wife and one child, John C, live on a farm near Plymouth, Oklahoma; Nellie, and her sister. Rose, in Concordia; Willie, has been in the employ of a mercantile company in Leonardsville, Kansas for six years, only being out of the store about a month during the entire half dozen years he has been in their employ. He is a .steady, exemplary young man who did much toward the support of his afflicted father. He is at the head of the enterprise and is a trusted employe. Forest, a young man of eighteen years of age is also in Oklahoma. Mr. and Mrs. Jordan are the parents of three bright and interesting little daughters : Fern, Mamie and Gladys, aged respectively eight, six and four years. The political views of the Jordan house are divided, Mr. Jor- dan being a Populist and his wife a Rqjublican. Mr. Jordan is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Glasco. He is a man of cordial manner, a thrifty, industrious and practical farmer. There is an atmos- phere of true hospitality pervading their home and Mr. and Mrs. Jordan are most excellent people. JOHN W. HARE. J. W. Hare is a native of Indiana, born in 1852 (for ancestry, see sketch of Mark Hare). When a boy Mr. Hare's parents emigrated to Iowa and subsequently to Missouri, where Mr. Hare received a common school HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 635 education. He began his career on a farm at the age of fourteen years. In 1871, he came to Kansas and took up the homestead where he now h\"es in Lyon township, about four miles from Glasco. Tlie family took up four hundred and eighty acres of land in a body, or three homesteads. Tvir. Hare raises wheat extensively and at the present time has two hundred and forty acres. In 1898-9 his ground yielded on an average forty bushels of wheat to the acre. He has made wheat growing a specialty. Mr. Hare was married, in 1870, to Mamie Kunkel of Holt county, Missouri, a daughter of Jacob Kunkel. Their family consists of three sons, Mark, Edward, and Arthur, all of whom have reached their majority. Mai'k, the eldest son, married May Prince, daughter of Ferd Prince of Glasco. Edward is married to Myrtle Childs. Politically, Mr. Hare is a Republican. He is a member of the Indepen- dent Order of Odd Fellows of Glasco. Mr. Hare has one of the best homes in his township. In 1884 he built a comfortable frame residence. He is a frugal and successful farmer. Mrs. Hare is an estimable woman and their home is a pleasant one. JOSEPH A. LaROCQUE. The LaRocque country home is one of the most artistic and desirable in the vicinity of Glasco. The residence is a frame building of generous dimen- sions. The barn, sheds and out buildings also bear the unmistakable stamp of prosperity. Mr. LaRocque is known all over Cloud county and commands the esteem, of all. By putting into effect his progressive ideas, he has contrib- uted in a large measure to the prosperity of Cloud county — in an earlier day to Concordia, and in more recent years to Glasco and vicinity. Ofie often hears the "bonanza mine" spoken of in the western parlance of the mining districts; Mr. LaRocque owns what might be termed a bon- anza farm. In 1885 he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land and shortly afterward added one hundred and tweny acres of state land, all of A\hich is excellent corn ground and rarely e\'er fails to produce a crop. Some years it has yielded seventy-five bushels per acre. Mr. LaRocque is a prac- tical farmer, advocates deep planting and not leaving the ground too loose. His farm is intersected by First creek. He keeps a herd of about one hun- dred head of native cattle and. feeds and raises extensively the Poland China breed of hogs. EDMUND H. LOUTHAN. One of the most esteemed citizens of Solomon township is E. H. Louthan, a successful farmer and stockman. He is a product of the great commonwealth of Ohio, born in Columbiana county, in 1829. His father was an industrious blacksmith of Scotch. Irish and Dutch orfgin, born in Penn- sylvania, near the Ohio line. He came to Kansas with his son, our subject. 636 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. and was one of the earliest smiths on the Solomon. His maternal ancestors were from England. Mr. Louthan, like his father, became a blacksmith and from him learned the trade which kept him employed for several years. At the age of twenty- four he took up a residence in Indiana where he lived nineteen years. In January, 1872, emigrated to Kansas and filed on a homestead located on the south side of the Solomon river, in Solomon township. Through the discouragements brought about by the hard times Mr. Louthan traded his homestead for land in Missouri and with his family left Kansas to take up their abode in that state, but when better days dawned for Kansas his family wanted to return and did so after an absence of five years. Not being able to secure their original homestead they did the next best thing, bought one on Fisher creek, and has since added other lands until he now owns four hun- dred and eighty acres of as fine land as can be found on the continent; it produces chiefly wheat and corn. To look over this valuable estate one could not imagine the hardships the owner with his family experienced. During their first sojourn in Kansas they lived in a dugoivt for three years. They then traded a gun for a house getting the worst of the bargain ; the roof was of, Cottonwood that warped and poured the rain down upon their heads un- stintingly, but later they shingled the roof and were quit comfortable. Mr. Louthan was married, in 1858, to Jane Thackery, who died in 1869, leaving three children, one of whom is living, Catherine, wife of Alex Jack- son of Lincoln county, Kansas. The others died in infancy. Mr. Louthan's second marriage was to Mary J. McNew, of Indiana, in 1872. To their union three promising sons have been bom, viz : Elza Riley and Walter, the eldest and youngest sons, respectively, are the "main stays'' of the family and tillers of the soil ; and to their industry much is due for the development of this fine farm. James Quinton, the second son, was a student three years in the State Normal at Emporia, Kansas and while in this institution was unani- mously chosen speaker of their senate, by both Democrats and Republicans. He is now a student in the Law Department of the State University at Law- rence, Kansas. Mr. Louthan is a gentleman of the old school; courtly, kind and gene- rous and his residence is one of those hospitable homes the Solomon valley is famous for. When twenty-three years of age he cast his first ballot in the presidential campaign for President Pierce, and has beai a solid Democrat ever since, taking an interest in all political affairs, not for the sake of office bur because he believes it to be the duty of every citizen. GILBERT L. FULLER. Among the many prosperous farmers and stockmen of Lyon township is G. L. Fuller. He is an old settler, coming to Cloud county February 15, 1871, and homesteaded land fi^e miles southwest of Glasco, section 21, Solomon township. It was high prairie land as he was not in the county HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 637 early enough to secure bottom land. There was not a sod turned, but within a few 3'ears he put this land in a high state of improvement and lived there until one year ago (1900) when he bought the old Mitchell homestead which had been in the hands of the Fuller family a quarter of a century. A brother, Joseph R.„ first bought the farm which he sold to his father who died soon afterward. Mr. Fuller sold his homestead in 1900, and bought out the heirs of his father's estate. He has added general improve- ments to the good foundation already laid until he has made a very desir- able and pleasant home. His residence stands on the banks of Chris creek, which runs through his land. The creek is skirted with timber which makes a charming back-ground for the red roofed cottage, sheds, etc. Nature could not have pfovided a prettier setting for a home. The trees are of good size and in autumn when nature has touched them with her paint brush they are gorgeous in their colorings. The residence, an eight-room house, was built in 1883. Mr. Fuller has one of the largest basement barns in the township, 30 by 40 feet in dimensions, 35 feet from basement to top, with shed 16 feet in width, the length of the barn. He has also a fine apple, peach and plum or- chard. He has some of the best high graded cattle which he has been breeding for several years. Mr. Fuller is a native of Green county, Illinois, born in 1849. He is a son of Gilbert F. and Lydia F. (Ross) Fuller. His father was a New Yorker and after several removals settled in Illinois, where he married Deliah De- neen. To this marriage two children were born, a daughter who died in in- fancy and a son, Josiah Buell. now living in Aspen, Colorado. By the sec- ond marriage there were tweh'e children, ten of whom are living, eight sons and two daughters. A brother, S. P., a farmer near Caldwell, Idaho; Jos- eph, a plumber in Chicago; Elmer Elsworth, of Aurora, Kansas; Denman, of Kansas City. A brother, J. B., served four years in the United States service with the First Missouri Cavalry of United States Volunteers. The mother lives near M^ichita, Kansas, with her daughter and two sons and where they owfn a half section of land. Gilbert F. Fuller died from a fall. He was carrying some tools into the barn one dark night, stumbled and fell down an opening left for a stairway. He lived until sunset the next evening, but did not regain consciousness in the meantime. He was seventy years of age; was a stone mason, plasterer and carpenter. He was a highly respected citizen. G. L. Fuller was married December 13, 1876, to Alice Newell, a daugh- ter of A. Newell, one of the old timers of the Solomon valley. (See sketch). To this worthy couple have been born eight children, six of whom are livingv four .sons and two daughters. One child died in infancy and a son, Gilbert, died at the age of thirteen years; Walter Ross, is twenty-four years of age, an industrious young man who assists his father on the farm; Clark Ray- mond, sixteen years of age, and Mabel, Ralph Cook, Bertha and Wesley, aged respectively thirteen, nine, six and four years. 38 638 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. JAAIES M. TEASLEY. J. M. Teasley, the subject of this sketch, is a son of the late A. D. Teasley (see sketch of W. W. Teasley), and like all the Teasleys he is a good citizen. When eight years of age he left his southern home and emigrated with his parents to the western wilds of Kansas, and settled in Cloud county, where he has been reared and educated in district No. 58, and in the Glasco schools. He was born on a plantation near Dalton, Geor- gia, in 1858. J. M. Teasley is a chip off the old block, and like his honest father and brothers, if he owes a dollar can not rest until he pays it. Mr. Teasley started in life from the foundation and has accumulated his lands and com- fortable home, by his own efforts and good management. He had no legacy left as a beginning, but rented land and when he reached his major- ity had saved enough of his income to buy forty acres of ground, which is a part of his present fine farm. In 1883 he purchased eighty acres of the Bert Doyle homestead. In 1897 he bought out the heirs of his father's estate; the old homestead, where linger the memories of many pioneer inci- dents; the old cabins that still stand as monuments to those exciting Indian raids, were converted into temporary hospitals and the bed clothes stained with blood from the wounds of his victims. A. D. Teasley bought ammuni- tion by the keg, and in these same rude huts the whole settlement con- gregated for protection, for Mr. Teasley and his sons with their unerring rifles were goQd shots and this was the recognized stronghold of the com- munity. In 1 90 1 Mr. Teasley bought the north Doyle eighty and now owns a total of three hundred and sixty acres of land second to none in the Solo- mon valley for its fertility of soil and producing qualities. Their residence is a handsome six room frame erected in 1885, situated on a prominence of ground, from which one of the rarest panoramic views of the valley is presented. Mr. Teaslej' has recently completed one of the finest caves in the country; 10x14 feet in the clear, with walls and floor of cement. He is one of the progressive farmers who is continually making improvements. He has now under course of construction a rock shed for his cattle 20x80 feet, 18 feet in height with a mow for hay. Fisher creek runs through his land, and furnishes an abundance of wood and ^^'ater. There is also a spring that affords water at all seasons of the year. Mr. Teasley was married February .?8, 1894, to Miss Martha Mirget, a daughter of Silas and Anise (Brammer) Mirget, who came to Kansas from southern Illinois in 1884. They now live in Delphos, Ottawa county, Kansas. Mr. Mirget is a retired farmer. Mrs. Teasley is one of four chil- dren, viz: Mary, wife of Samuel Siders, a blacksmith of Delphos; Sarah, wife of \\'ells King, a farmer of Ottawa county; and Amanda, wife of Harvey Knight, a farmer of Cloud county. Mr. and Mrs. Teasley are the parents of tliree interesting little sons : Earl and Loyd, aged six and four ■\-ears, and an infant of six months. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 639 JAMES HURLEY. One of the progressive farmers and slockmen of Lyontownship is the subject of this sketch, James Hiu'ley, who came to Kansas in 1870, from the northern part of Iowa, Mitchell county. Mr. Hurley is a native of south- west Ireland, born in County Kerry in 1839. He was educated in the parochial schools of Ireland and when about nineteen years of age emi- grated to America. Mr. Hurley was in the employ of the government five years with the First Army Corps along the Potomac; was in the supply car service. He afterward returned to Pennsylvania and thence to Maryland, where he was married in 1868 to Nora Collins, also of Irish birth. Her father emigrated to America and settled in Washington, District of Columbia, where he died in 1875. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hurley located in Iowa and shortly afterward emigrated with teams to Fort Scott, Kansas. Not being pleased with that country they came to Junction City. There were a number of families who came together and traveled about hunting a location. In the party were the Dillons, Pierce Butler, Thomas Butler, Keith and Downey. They made a stop at Asherville, Micthell county, where they met an old soldier who told them the Indians were coming. Instead of going further west they turned backward and located in Cloud county, took up homesteads, built log houses and proceeded to build homes. Mr. Hurley's possessions were less than four hundred dollars. It was a dry year and the prospect was a gloomy one. They had to travel to Salina to mill, for their groceries and seed wheat; they took their revolvers to guard against the Indians, but they had been driven further west. Mr. Hurley was able to sustain his family after the first year by hard work and economy. By degrees he has prospered until he now owns one of the best homes in Lj'on township He was more fortunate than most of his neighbors and kept out of debt, and never mortgaged his land only to buy more. He has a herd of native cattle; is grading them with Herefords and Shorthorns. He Owns six hundred acres of land in Lyon township, good bottom corn land, and wheat land. In 1890 he had sixty acres of ground that yielded thirty-seven acres of wheat per acre. In 1898 Mr. Hurley erected a handsome nine room, two-story, frame house. His place is well improved, good bam^, out buildings, an enclosed shed 80x20 feet in dimensions, which accommodates eighty head of cattle. Mr. and Mrs. Hurley are the parents of eight children, viz: Mary, wife of Edmond Colton, of Kansas City, an engineer on the Rock Island Railroad.; Timothy assists his father on the farm; Anna, wife of John Butler, a farmer of Lyon township; Margaret. William, Eliza, Helen and Frank. Mr. Hurley is thoroughly Americanized and loyal to his adopted countr-, where he has spent the better part of his days, built a comfortable home and prospered. 640 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. WILLIAM WASHINGTON TEASLEY. W W Teasley, one of the early settlers, also one of the many prosper- ous farmers and foremost stockmen of Summit township, was a native of Dalto«i, Whitfield county, Georgia, born in the year 1846. His parents were David Allan and Rhoda Milligan (Boatwright) Teasley, both natives of Georgia. Mr. Teasley's father owned and successfully managed a cotton plantation. His paternal grandparents settled in Georgia at an early day. The Teasleys left their southern home to test the possibilities of the much discussed new country of Kansas. His father, Allan Teasley, and his fam- ily were among the first settlers on Fisher creek, in the year 1866, where he endured the hardships of pioneer life with dauntless courage, bearing priva- tions, that his family might in later years reap the reward of his efforts. He died on February 18, 1875 at the age of fifty-one years. He was cutting wood in the timber, left his home early in the morning and not returning at the noon hour, his wife instituted a search and found him with life extinct — supposedly from heart failure brought on by over exertion — leaving his little band to struggle on alone in the battle of life. Mr. Teasley's mother was of Scotch origin and died June 8, 1886, at the advanced age of seventy- fovn- years. "To come to Kansas in the early times without a dollar," was so fre- quent an occurance that it was cited with pride rather than an event of some- thing to be held back from ihe neighbors lest they look down upon them as penniless adventurers. All lived alike in houses of sod or logs. The dug- outs was counted as the warmest in winter and coolest in summer. To be the owner of a wagon and a span of horses decorated with a rope harness was quite a rise in the world from the yoke of oxen and home-made sled. Our subject's home was a one-room house built of stone, where six of his children opened their eyes to the "great round world." Childhood knows nothing but brightness and joy, and this little house brought them all the comforts and pleasures of a palace. Appetites savored the buffalo meat and bread made of corn meal. Buffalo were numerous and formed a staple article of food, and from the skin robes for warm carpets and coverings for the beds \\'ere made. During the Indian raids of 1 868, ^^^ W. Teasley with his family moved to Franklin county, but returned to their homestead in 1870. Upon his arrival he was well pleased to meet his old employer, "Uncle Tommy" Pinkerton, who was a contractor, and after the usual salutations of "How are you getting along?" etc., Mr. Teasley remarked with all the soberness of a judge, "Physically well, but financially busted," and ventured to ask for a loan of fifteen dollars. Such an amount in those days was seldom near at hand, but credit was its equivalent and the amount in goods from a general merchandise store was soon put in shape to be taken home and pre- pared into wholesome meals. When he finished his marketing he had a wagon load of purchases and felt rich. b HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 641 ;\Jrs. Teasley's father in the year 1872. was the owner of two cows only one of which gave milk, the other having "gone dry" for lack of proper care. His son-in-law thinking he saw an opportunity to make a little stake asked for the cow. The owner, little thinking- anything could be done to bring her milk back, consented to the deal. In the first attempt the son-in- law secured about a spoonful of the lacteal fluid, the next time two, and after repeated trials was well rewarded by getting a flowing pail full of milk, which made nice rolls of butter, illustrating that even in so small a venture, industry brings its reward. ^Ir. Teasley's home was seven miles from Ottawa, while living in Frank- lin county, and upon the occasion of a show coming to town all wanted to go, but "the price" could not be obtained. Mrs. Teasley's father gave her the wherewithal for admittance and while enroute to the city Mr. Teasley o\'trtook a man with a balky horse, accepted the proffered two dollars to help him out of his predicament took the man into town, and to his wife's great surprise when she entered the big tent, found him quietly "seeing the elephant" and all the wonderful sights under the convas. ^Ir. Teasley homesteaded his present farmi March 15, 1872, and added to his land from time to time until he was the ]50ssessor of one thousand acres. He has, however, sold to his sons portions of this land, retaining for himself three hundred and sixty acres. About eleven years ago Mr. Teasley suffered from a stroke of paral^^sis, which disabled him for manual ]ab(jr. His career has been a financial success and even after losing the use of his limbs, Mr. Teasley made in 1897, while seated in his conveyance, a profit of seven hundred dollars on the sales of cattle, beside other financial bargains. Mr. Teasley was married in December, 1869, to Mary Jane, a daughter of Henry Stackhouse, a brother of the Reverend Stackhouse, who held serv- icer and preached one of the first sermons in the Glasco community, and all the early settlers remember how, like music, the first words of the gospel fell on their listing ears ; the words of comfort and good cheer were at that time "pearls without price." Her father is still living and resides in Mitch- ell county. Mrs. Teasley is the eldest of eight children, and, with the excep- tion of one brother living in Texas, all reside in Kansas. yir. and Mrs. Teasley are the parents of eight children, seven of whom ha^•e been spared to them, viz : Rhoda E., wife of VV. G. Wells, of Con- cordia: David Henry, a farmer of Cloud county; George Monroe and Thomas Wesley are both farmers and own land in Summit township; Min- nie Jane, wife of Isaac Moore, a farmer living seven miles south of Concor- dia ; Charles Calvin is associated with his father on the farm, and Cora Adell. a prepossessing and industrious young woman, living at home. Mr. Teasley has practically retired from financial transactions, having a sufficiency of this v\'orld's goods. Hs is a Democrat politically, but has voted the populist ticket since the organization of that party. He is a mem- ber of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. 642 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. IVER B. HALDERSON. The subject of this sketch, I. B. Haldersoii, one of the representatixe citizens and partially retired farmers of Tyon township, is a native of Nor- way, bom in 1850, and went to Wisconsin with his parents when he was four years old. His father, Bjorn Halderson, was one of a race of farmers and the only member of his father's family who emigrated to America. I. B. Halderson's mother was Inger (Anderson) Halderson, of Norwa}'. He is one of eight children, seven of whom are li\'ing. Two brothers, H. B. and Andrew, are well-to-do farmers of Solomon township. A. R. was a nominee for county commissioner from his district (No. 3) by the Populist party against Mr. Daly, in 1901. He is a prominent man of Sol- omon township. He has been treasurer of his township for several terms and clerk of School District No. 42 for more than twenty years. His nom- ination for commissioner was not of his seeking, but had he been elected would have served the county well. A sister, Sarah Anderson, widow of. Christian Anderson, who died, leaving his wife and a family of two children, lives a farm in Lyon township. Ida and Cora are her two daughters. The former, the widow of Ernest Converse, was a Cloud county teacher and a student of the State Normal School at Emporia. Amelia, wife of Everett Dickerson, a resident of Ness county, Kansas ; they have a family of three children, — Beulah Mildred, Clifford Everett and Fern Agnes. Lena, wife of Hosea Stout, a farmer of Smith county, Kansas; their family consists of two sons, Ira, aged thirteen and Arley, aged ten years. Anna, wife of John Pitner, a farmer of Lyon township. Mr. Halderson was educated in Wisconsin. The Haldersons first set- tled in Ottawa county, in 1870, coming a few months later to Lyon township. Cloud county, where they located government land. They came without capital, lived in a -dugout and underwent the same experiences and trials that most of the early settlers did, and lived as people lived in Kansas at that time. I. B. Halderson owns the original homestead. He had lived at home until the death of his father in 1894, and the home place succeeded to him. This is an -excellent farm, wheat and corn land. In many good years his ground has yielded seventy-five bushels of corn and forty bushels of wheat per acre. The Flaldersons are Republicans politically; strayed away for a while but are falling back in line again. They are members of the Lutheran church of the Glasco congregation. They all have comfortable homes and are numbered among the representative citizens. ROBERT VV. SMITH. The subject of this sketch is R. W. Smith, the resident and owner o "Clover Valley Stock Farm," one of the most beautiful and valuable estate"^ in the country, situated in the southwestern corner of Cloud county.- Mr. Smith is a grandson of the Reverend Joseph Smith, who had charge of the i ' "^ i^""''^ ^ The Beautilul Country Place of Robert W. Smith. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 645 Cross Creek and Buffalo churches in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in 1790, and from that time onward until his death in 1800. His salary was small; too small to support himself and family, so he boug-ht a farm on credit, expecting to meet the consideration to be paid with a salary promised by the people of his parish. Time rolled on until three years' income was due. The people wanted to remunerate thfir minister, but how could they; Wheat was abundant but there was no market; it would not bring over a dime per bushel; even salt had to be brought across the mountains on pack honses and in exchange for one bushel of that commodity twenty-one bushels of wheat was given. At last the day dawned when the minister's salary must be forthcoming or lose his farm, for the mortgage was overdue. Meet- ings were called to consider the matter but nothing tangible materialized until one day, Mr. Moore, who had the only mill in the settlement, agreed that if the people would furnish a boat, barrels and wheat he would give them a boat load of flour, providing they could get it transported to New Orleans, adding that the proceeds would pay off the debt. The offer was received with favor; coopers and boat builders went to work with a will and farmers subscribed wheat lavishly. Many of the brethren donated fifty bushels and others more. Within a month the boat was loaded and ready for market, but in the meantime a new difficulty arose. No one volunteered to take the transaction in hand or seemed willing to go on a venture fraught with so many dangers and hardships. Finally Elder Smiley, an old man, and a granduncle of our subject, offered his services, while two men were induced to accompany hiln. Starting on this journey was an event which called forth not only the Pennsylvania settlement but the neighboring colony in Virginia to attend the Elder in his journey to the landing, fifteen miles distant. Men, women and children congregated together to bid — as many thought — the old gentleman and his assistants a final adieu, an everlasting farewell, and as they gathered at the river many tearful good-byes were exchanged. More than nine months elapsed and no message was forthcoming from the little crew of brave and daring men until one Sabbath morning, to the joy and satisfaction of the whole community, EHder Smiley appeared in the congregation looking younger and better that when he had departed on this perilous journey. A meeting was appointed for Monday following and the good Elder reported as follows : "I have faced more dangers than I could tell you about in a week, but thanks be to God I am safe, and sold the flour at twenty-seven dollars per barrel." He then presented a hugh buckskin "poke" and poured on the table such a pile of Spanish gold as that primitive people had never seen. The church debt was paid and the pastor. Reverend Joseph Smith, our subject's grandfather, made independent, and there was cause for universal rejoicing. Te relate Elder Smiley's experiences on this jour- ney would fill a volume. It was before the days of navigation and he made the return trip from New Orleans on foot and was twice captured by the Indians. Mr. Smith's maternal grandmother was Eleanor Adams and after her 646 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. h^isband's death she married Isaac Stout, of Rome, Adams county, Ohio. Isaac Stout was captain of an Ohio regiment in the war of 1812, and a major in the Mexican war. Mr. Smith was Ijorn in Lewis county, Ken- tucky, April 13, 1841. He is a son of Alexander and Margaret (Stout) Smith. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, and subsequently emi- grated to Kentucky, where he was a farmer and boat builder, following the laller avocation on the Ohio river. His molher was born in Ohio but of Scotch parentage. He removed with his parents from Kentucky to Mis- souri in 1857, and returning to \'isit friends in his native state during the jjcriod of the gathering war clouds, he joined Company I, Fourth Ken- tucky Infantry, under Colonel Speed S. Fr}', and during his three years of service protecting the glorious stars and stripes — for, though he was a Ken- tuckian born and bred, he was loyal to his country — he participated in thirteen engagements. Thirteen has been Mr. Smith's lucky number, always producing good fortune. He was born on the 13th instant and many of the important or weighty matters of his career haA'e seemingly hinged upon this ordinarily condemned numeral. Mr. Smith's career and that of the members of his regiment were di's- tinguisbed by fearlessness of danger and undaunted spirit. They fought valiantly in the battles of Mill Springs, Kentucky, the second days' fight at Shiloh, Chichamauga, Missionary Ridge and siege of Atlanta. His Com- pany experienced the greatest hardships while on the AlcCook raid. Of their nine hundred and fifty-two brave soldiers, all but one hundred and twenty were killed, wounded and captured. Company I, after .a hard and well- fought struggle, was forced to surrender. The Confederates came upon them about daylight and were driven back, but the rebels were reinforced and as the L'nion soldiers repaired to a crossing further down the stream they suddenly found themselves in the midst of an o\erwhelming number of rebels, and but fourteen men of Company I escaped, four were killed, nine wounded and the others taken prisoners. Mr. Smith was one of the fortunate fourteen, but while cutting his way through he was slightly \\cnmded in the hand. When the little fragment of men swam their horses through the Chattahoochee river and reached the Union lines at Marietta fourteen days later they were exhausted. They had been almost con- stantly in the saddle and five days during this time were without sleep, and ■with but \-ery little to eat. After serving three years, two months and sixteen days, Mr. Smith Avas honorably discharged, returned to his home in Carroll county, Mis- souri, and a few months later emigrated to Kansas and on October 19, 1865, he filed on a homestead, his present fine country seat, then on the frontier. Could Mr. Smith and his father's family have "dipped into the dim future" and foreseen all the sorrows and horrors of Indian warfare, their hopes for a home in the "wild west" would have died within them. After filing on his land and building his dugout, fourteen dollars, a wagon, a span of horses, and a cow represented Mr. Smith's capital stock. The HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 647 second year the Indians stole his horses and the cow died. The L'nion Pacific raihoad was under course of construction and he became an employe, earn- ing enough to procure another start in life and in December, 1866, he was married to Mary Ann Hendershot, who came to Kansas from Ohio with her parents a short time previously. They are still living in the Solomon valley just over the line from Cloud, in Ottawa county. ^Ir. Smith's father located a homestead on Brown creek, in Mitchell county, in 1866, and was the earliest settler in that vicinity. With the build- ing of the railroad the Indians assumed a more hostile attitude. Prior to this event the Cheyennes, Sioux and Arapahoes were friendly and would camp near by, but they were opposed to civilization and with the building of a railroad through the cotintry they realized their hunting grounds would soon become cultivated fields and the bufifalo would be no more. Thus think- ing the settlers were encroaching upon their rights, with savage threats they ordered Mr. Smith's father to leave the country, but he was heedless of their declarations until they murdered Bell, Bogardus, the Marshall bo)-s and young Thompson. Directly after this raid took place Mr. Smith and his brother Alex moved their father's family onto what is now known as the Thomas Bennett farm, two miles southwest of Delphos. They had laid iiji a supply of provisions, prepared comfortable winter quarters and the father, with his two sons and their families feeling more secure, occupied the same dwelling. Although they felt a security in numbers they were destined to share the awful fate of many pioneers. Our subject, with a younger brother, had gone to Asherville for the purpose of joining a militia that was being- organized for the protection of settlers. During their absence the father and son, A. C. Smith, were plowing furrows around some hay stacks to protect them from the prairie fires that were so common in those days, and while engaged in this, a party of Indians rode up from behind and shot them both down. The women ran screaming from the house, entered the brush along the river, waded through the stream for a considerable distance that the savage demons might lose trace of them, and finally dragged themseh-es out of -the water, and with hearts wrung with anguish and despair they crawled into the underbrush. These terror-stricken women — the mother and her two sons' wives — supposed the father and son were killed outright and knew not what fate, perhaps a thousands times worse than death, would be imposed upon them. But their screams had frightened the cowardh- murderers, for an Indian is only brave when all the advantages are his. \Mio can imagine the horror-stricken scene that presented itself to the broth- ers on their arrival home the next morning to find the father still living, but with a mortal gunshot wound through the shoulder near the lung, and with a spear, which had gone' through his mouth and passed to the outside of the neck, knocking several of his teeth out. He died at 10 o'clock A. M., shortly after their arrival. The brother whose body was not found until two days later, ^^■as shot in the back and presumably in his attempt to cross 648 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the river was drowned. Not content with the heinous crime already com- mitted, the Indians had entered the house and destroyed everything possilMe. They ripped open four large feather beds, broke in the staves of three bar- rels of molasses, and in one conglomerated mass were feathers, flour, molas- ses, coffee, sugar, etc. They carried away all the sugar and coffee they could and made a hurried flight, thinking the women of the house might appear with reinforcements at any moment. The family had provided a year's supply of provisions that had been hauled from Salina. On this same raid Mrs. Morgan was taken into captivity. Several years elapsed ere this family re- covered from the shock of this terrible scene and the mother, completely bent and broken down with sorrow and grief, could not throw off the burdens of her cares, and after one year of repining, joined her husband and son in their "eternal home." Mr. Smith returned to his homestead, where they eked out an existence until 1872. During that year he received one hundred dollars additional bounty and this money he invested in twenty-five calves. Two years later he sold them and invested the proceeds in fifty calves. Two years hence he sold this herd and bought one hundred head, fed and shipped them on the market. This was the starting point of his financial success. He bought more land and more cattle. Instead of selling his stock he raised corn, fed it and reduced the bulk instead of shipping the grain. He and his sons now own one thousand two hundred and forty acres in Cloud and Ottawa counties, with over one thousand acres under cultivation. He has a herd of about two hundred finely bred cattle, and of this number one hundred and twenty-five are Herefords. His farming is diversified, wheat, corn and alfalfa being his principal crops. He was among the first farmers to intro- duce the raising of alfalfa into his community. To Mr. and ]\Irs. Smith have been born eleven children, seven of whom are living; four sons were deceased in infancy. Frank Wiley, born March 10. 1870, is married to Marctha Carten and lives on an adjoining farm. America, born March 5. 1873, is the wife of Pierce Lynch, a farmer living in Oklahoma: they are the parents of one son, Ernest. Minnie Myrtle, born May 5, 1873, is the wife of William Jones, a farmer of Ottawa county; their children are Esther and Lucy. Alexander, born October 17, 1875; Leroy, born May 31, 1877; Alva, born August 25, 1881, and Archie, born February 24. 1886. The four last named are unmarried and living at home. Bertha Ellen Lyons, born March 10, 1892, is a little girl whose parents died and she has found a home ^ith the family of Mr. Smith. Their children have been educated principally in the schools of Delphos, driving to and from. Leroy graduated from the Delphos high school in 1898, and took a business course in the VVesleyan College of Salina, and was a student one year in the State Normal of Emporia. Mr. Smith is a staunch Republican, and was appointed one of the first commissioners of Cloud county in 1866: he did not qualify for this office, a HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 649 severe blizzard preventing his appearance, but assisted in the organization of the county. It was some time after Mr. Smith's advent in the county before Delphos, Beloit or Concordia were even thought of, and he knew every settler within a radius of many miles or between Solomon City and the head of the Solomon river, until 1870. Socially, Mr. Smith is a member of Delphos Lodge, Knights of Pythias, and was commander of Wilder- ness Post No. 116, Grand Army of the Republic, of Delphos. Mr. Smith's brother, A. C, was the first county clerk elected in Ottawa county, but was killed before entering upon the duties of that office. After living seven years in a dugout Mr. Smith built a two-room log house and the old landmark still stands as a monument of the shelter afforded in the primitive days. In 1893 he erected a handsome eleven-room residence, which is situated in one of the bends and on the banks of the Solomon river. This .<:tately home is the outcome of years" of suffering, privation, bloodshed and harrowing hairbreadth escapes. There are good outbuildings with stable room for fifty head of horses and sheds for all his cattle. An orchard loaded with the crimson and golden fruit and a mill from which was dispensed deliciously sweet cider is one of the author's most pleasant recollections. Mr. Smith has witnessed the change and progress of a sandy desert, where the buffalo and Indian roamed unrestricted, into one of the most magnificent agricultural and stock raising countries in the United States, with handsome residences and fine barns on nearly every quarter section; school houses and churches that compare with those of any state in the Union, the telephone system, free rural-mail delivery at nearly every house and the recipients of these favors a contented and happy people. The present pros- perous conditions do not bear out the statement made by General W. T. Sherman, while commanding the United States army in 1866, who, when appealed to for protection by the settlers of this locality, replied. "The settlement is one hundred miles too far west; that country is only fit for the Indians and buffalo.'' Mr. Smith's only surviving brother, John S. Smith, is a well-to-do retired farmer, residing in Beloit. He settled in JNIitchell county in April, 1866, and underwent many turbulent experiences with the redskins, at one time losing all his stock through them. John S. Smith was moving a family to Wamego, Kansas, and with them passed through Leavenworth the day prior to Quantrell's raid and massacre. They were allowed to pass through at the instigation of some Missouri abolitionist refugees. Mr. Smith, the subject of this sketch, is awake to the interests of agri- culture and stockraising ; he is a director for the fifth district of the Co-operative Grain and Live Stock Association, and was recently re-elected to serve his second year. Mr. Smith retains his Kentucky hospitality and the guest, whether friend or stranger,- receives the welcome hand of fellowship his countrymen ■ are famous for extending. 650 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. WILLIAM PARKER. The subject of this sketch, WilHam Parker, is a progressive, industrious and exemplary young man, the "Good Samaritan" of his father's family, for through his efforts th^ old homestead has been redeemed— saved from the mortgage auctioneer's hammer. He now owns the farm, having bought the interest of the other heirs, and is in a fair way to become one of the leading farmers of the community. About one year prior to this writing (November, 1901) he sold his cattle down to one cow and three heifers. He now owns a herd of thirty- three well graded Shorthorns. Mr. Parker came to Cloud county when twelve years of age, but for several years, dating from the time he was four- teen years old he traveled about doing various things; mined in Colorado, worked in the smelters of Leadville, drove cattle in Arizona and labored in the lead mines of Joplin, Missouri. He returned home in 1901, after his mother's death and came into possession of the farm. In the meantime he had contributed the greater part of his earnings to prevent the mortgage from sweeping in the home. Mr. Parker is a son of Benjamin and Mary Ann (Sutton) Parker, who were married in Ohio in 1853. Benjamin Parker is a native of Stark county, Illinois, born in 1835. He remained a resident of Stark county until 1857. when he moved to Vermilion county, Illinois, and in 1865, located in Kankakee. In 1873 '"^^ emigrated to Kansas. He has been unfortunate in his business relations, misfortune .seemingly following him all through life. He has met with many adversities — saw his fields divested of every blade during the grasshopper raids, lost several horses during the hard years and lived in a dugout from 1873 until 1880, and in 1885 built a comforta- able residence, which burned to the ground, compelling them to resort to the dugout until he could build again. Mr. Parker served in an Illinois regiment in the United States service, being one of the two hundred and fourteen volunteers who went from his to\\nship in Stark county. William Parker is a grandson of James Parker, who was of English origin, but a native of Pennsylvania. He died in 1838. His paternal grandmother was Sena Murphy, born in Ohio, of Scotch par- entage. Her father was William Murphy, a captain in the Revolutionary war. She was three times married, once prior to her marriage with James Parker. Her first husband was a Mr. Miller, by whom she had two children, Nathaniel and Lydia. Her second marriage was with James Parker, and Benjamin Parker is the only living child of eight children by this marriage. He lives with his son, William Parker, the subject of this sketch. James Parker died in 1838. Mrs. Parker's third husband was William Van Tassel. No children were born to this marriage. William Parker is one of five children, viz : Theodore, a carpenter and joiner, with residence in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Elisha, contractor for paper mills of Oregon City, Oregon. He was an old settler and homesteader HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 651 of Center township, this count)', where he Hvecl until 1888, and married Sarah, a daughter of WilHam Dugan, an old resident of Cloud county. Nora, the only daughter, presides over her brother's household. Though thoroughly domestic, she is an accomplished young lady, a graduate of the Glasco schools. She raises poultry and makes upwards of thirty pounds of butter per week during se\'eral months of the year. She is a member of the Bethel Methodist Episcopal church. WILLIAM PROSSER. William Prosser, the subject of this sketch, is one of the most prosper- ous farmers of Meredith township. He was born in Schuylkill county, Penn- sylvania, in 1835. His parents were Edward and Mary (Reese) Prosser. HJs father was of Welsh origin and born in 1806. His mother died when our subject was a mere child and he was reared by his grandfather, who was a farmer. Mr. Prosser's mother was a native of Wales and emigrated to America with her husband in 1829; her father was a miller. At the age of ten years Air. Prosser moved with his parents to Blooms- burg, Columbia county, Pennsylvania, and early in life learned the shoe- maker's trade. In the spring of 1857 he emigrated west, settling in Mt. Carroll, Illinois, where he worked at his trade and attended school until the .spring of 1859, when, in company with a brother and several friends, he started overland for Pike's Peak. They arrived at Little Blue river and at this point began meeting "early starters'' who seemingly were in a hurry to return and informed Mr. Prosser's party that the road was crowded with people all on the "back track." They were loth to believe the report and remained by the wayside for several days to investigate and as a result they also retraced their journey and were very anxious to return where they could find employment. Arriving in St. Louis Mr. I'rosser obtained work, which proved unsatisfactory, and he returned to Illinois, locating in Caseyville, where he remained until the breaking out of the Civil war. His brother located at Union City, Tennessee, where he worked at his trade, that of a plasterer. However, he had tarried too long and when he desired to leave they questioned his right. The condition of things was critical even at St. Louis, where martial law was in force. Mr. Prosser wrote him to the effect that if he would join him at Caseyville they would emigrate to the mountains together and thus avoid the "present trouble," but in the event that he joined the Confederate army our subject would be- come a Union soldier. The vigilance committee presented the letter, stat- ing, they must know its contents, and after they were satisfied that the brother would leave the state, they gave him leave of absence and he made all haste to get away. He joined Mr. Prosser at Caseyville, and together they returned to Pennsylvania and enlisted in Company D, Eighty-fourth Pennsylvania Vol- unteer Infantry, under Captain Torick, with Colonel Murray as regimental 652 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. commander. Mr. Prosser served almost four years, but his brother was killed in their first battle at Winchester, March 23, 1862. Mr. Prosser re- cei\'ed a flesh wound in the arm and was sent to the hospital at Philadelphia, remaining until August. Thej^ left Harrisburg December 29, 1861. Their colonel was also killed at Winchester. Mr. Prosser participated in the bat- tles of Bull Run Septetaber 2, 1862, Ffedericksburg December 11-12, and Chancellorsville May 2-2,, where he was taken prisoner and detained in Richmond, Virginia; thirteen days later he was paroled and sent to Camp Washington, where he remained until rejoining his regiment the following Sep- tember. He was in the battle of the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Petersburg, Virginia, and various other engagements until August 16, 1864, when he was again captured at Deep Bottom and cast into Libby prison, remaining two weeks. From there they were taken to Belle Isle and two months later to Salisbury, North Carolina, where he suffered intensely from hunger arfd exposure. In this prison there were nine thousand men on November i and the latter part of January, but four thousand remained. They were deceased at the rate of fifty per day, piled on wagons like cord wood and hauled out. After leaving Libby they expected better treatment, but with every change their condition grew worse and upon reaching Salisbury the crisis came and was fearful in its enormity. On their camp, which consisted of seven acres of ground, the prisoners made bricks of mud and erected places of shelter, ^vhich melted with the first rain. So ravenous were they for food the star\'- ing victims chewed the dried stumps of sorghum cane, extracted soup from meatless bones and afterward baked, broke and ate them. They were phys^ ical wrecks and suffered all the horrors of a southern prison, but these brave men would rather die than enter the rebel ranks or go on to the fortifications. They had no shelter, but dug holes and piled sand over them for protection. Their rations consisted of raw flour with no means of cooking it and they were forced to eat paste. Mr. Prosser was released from this place of incar- ceration February 21, 1865, and placed in the hospital at Richmond, where he remained two weeks. He was mustered oui July 6, 1865, at Philadelphia, returned to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, and two years later emigrated to Collinsville. Illinois, where he worked at his trade. After various removals to different parts of that state, in 1884 he came to Cloud county and pur- chased the old Solomon Pace homestead in Meredith township, which he has improved and made one of the finest farms in that vicinity. He owns two hundred acres of land and makes wheat raising his chief industry. Mr. Prosser A\as married in 1871 to Martha Medora, a daughter of Simon Smith, an old settler of Johnson county, Missouri, formerly of Ten- nessee. To Mr. and Mrs. Prosser six children have been born, viz : The eldest son, William F., a farmer in Meredith township, married Gertie Upjohn (they are the parents of one child, a little daughter, Ada) ; Mary, their only daughter, is the wife of Wilbur F. Powell, an Ottawa county farmer; Edward is a farmer of Lyon township; Howell is interested with his HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 653 father; the two younger sons are OHver and Emmett, aged seventeen and fourteen years, respectively. Mr. Prosser is a Republican in politics and takes an intelligent interest in political afifairs. The family are members and active workers in the Bethel Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mr. Prosser is steward and trustee. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic Post of Del- phos. The Prosser home is a pleasant one and as the passerby approaches, hi.-' attention is attracted toward the neat and freshly painted cottage that bespeaks the comfort of its inmates and a fine bank barn that insures his stock are also well cared for. Mr. and Mrs. Prosser are good people and the class that every community needs more of. GEORGE ^V. PIUSSEV. Too many such enterprising men as G. W Hussey could not establish themselves in a community. It is men of his stamp that ha^'e made the Solo- mon Valley "blossom as the rose," and the poet's dreamy imagination charac- terized by hundreds of charming homes and cultivated fields. The H'usseys have one of the most in\'iting homes in the county. A handsome residence with an avenue of tall shade trees on one side and a fine bearing orchard on the other, where in the autunm sweet cider fresh from the mill is dispensed with a hospitality that implies "our latch-string is always hanging out." Mr. Hussey is a native of New Vienna, Ohio, born in 1844. His par- ents were William and Ann (Clouser) Hussey. The Husseys are of Quaker origin and settled in Ohio more than a century ago. The Clousers were from North Carolina. Mr. Hussey worked on a farm until eighteen years of age when he enlisted in the country's service with Company G, seventy-ninth Regiment," Ohio Volunteers. His company was at the front and dis- tinguished itself for valor and courage. He served almost three years. After the war he returned to Ohio, where he engaged in various things : — farming, railroading, operating a saw mill, learned the machiniist's trade and run a threshing machine. In 1883, he came to the Solomon Valley and was joined by his family a year later. He operated a threshing machine in the Solomon Valley for five years, threshing most of the -wheat in his \icinity. In 1888, he bought two hundred acres of the farm where he now li\'es and later added eighty and now owns two hundred and eighty acres. He raised wheat, corn and alfalfa until 1898, when he began stock raising with seventeen thoroughbred Hereford cows, He now owns forty- four head of cattle which are regis- tered, down to calves a few months old. His cattle ai'e the cream of fifty- five different herds. His cow "Gem of Loraine" is almost a fac simile of the famous "Carnation." x^nother cow was imported directly from Eng- land. He has volumes containing the age, owner and breeder of every graded animal in the United States, and has the pedigree of all his cattle 654 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. and can trace the origin of every animal in his herd. He has lately disposed of four Hereford bulls, which brought him good round figures. His cattle are well cared for and his beautiful herd is worth going miles to see. Mr. and Mrs. Hussey were married in January, 1881. Mrs. Hussey wr-.s Mary Hodson, of Ohio. Her parents were Allen and Martha (Burton) Hodson. She is one of four children, three of whom live in Ohio. The Hodsons are old settlers of Highland county, Ohio, sixty miles southeast of Cincinnati. 'Sh. and Mrs. Hussey's family consists of five interesting children, \iz. : Aland, a graduate of the common school and on last year of the high school cfurse in Glasco; Clyde, aged sixteen years, on laoc years course of the Glasco high school ; Arthur, May and Lelia, aged thirteen, eleven and four years respectively. Mr. Hussey's farm is under a high state of cultivation, commodious barns, and sheds, windmill with a tank attached that holds two hundred and eighty barrels of water. Politically he is a Republican. His family are mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal church. He is a prominent Mason and a member of the Glasco lodge. HUBERT F. KING. The subject of this sketch, H. F King, is one of the solid, substantial farmers and stock men of Eyon to\vnship. He started upon his career with- out a shilling in his pocket, but by shrewd management and industry, has gained a comfortable fortune. Through these cjualities a magic change has been brought about and today his farm products and stock interests yield him a handsome income. Air. King was born in Trumbull county, Ohio, in 1852. His parents were Richard and Maria (Wiley) King. His father was a native of Con- necticut, but removed to the state of New York and later to Ohio. He visited California in 1854 and after remaining in that state several years returned to Ohio, where he died in i860. He was a wagon and carriage maker by trade. Our subject's paternal grandfather was a patriot of the Revolutionary war, and the bayonet he carried is in the possession of one of Mr. King's brothers, and bears the scars of many battles. Mr. King's mother was born in Cattaraugus count}', New York. She was of English ancestry. Mr. King received a common school education and continued to live in Trumbull county until 'he attained his twenty-fifth year. He was but eight years old when his father died and his mother's Hmited means of support prompted her to find a home for her son where he could earn his board and clothes. When seventeen years of age, he started out w ith' the determination to stem the tide of fortune upon his own responsibility and resources. After working as a farm hand one year, and about the same length of time in a cheese factory, he entered the employ of an extensi\e tinware concern and sold their goods throughout the country districts. With HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 655 this firm he acquired his start in the world, saving a thousand dollars in the five years he was associated with them. Imbued with the desire to own land he came westward and after looking over the situation in Iowa, he came with his brother, C. C. King to Kansas, in 1878, and homesteaded in Ottawa county. He also secured a timber claim adjoining. In 1878, Mr. King bought one-half section of land where he now lives. It was an un- improved tract, owned by James R. King, an iron bridge manufacturer of Ohio, to whom it was deeded by a brother, Chas. King. Mr. King sold his homestead in Ottawa county, but retained the timber claim and bought eighties. He now owns eight hundred acres of valuable wheat and pasture land, five hundred acres of which is under fence. The family lived in a base- ment from 1883 tmtil 1897, when it was used for a foundation for a sub- stantial frame house. The farm is well equipped with stock, barns and sheds. He keeps a herd of about eighty head of Herefords and feeds a half hundred hogs in ordinary years. January 2, 1880, Mr. King was married to Caddie Stoddard, a daugh- ter of Frank and Delia (Earl) Stoddard. Her father was born in Chenango county, New York, January 8, 1838, and was married to Delia Earl, July 3, 1861 ; she was born in Delaware county, New York, in 1840. Mrs. King was also born in Delaware county, in 1862. When about eight years of age she came with her parents to Rock Island, Illinois. One year later they re- moved to Macon county, Missouri, where they lived on a farm for eight years. They then came to Kansas and are now residents of Norton. Her father was a member of Company K, One hundred and Forty-fourth New York Infantry, served throughout thei Civil war and was mustered out in August, 1865. By occupation Mr. Stoddard has always been a farmer and carpenter. Of. a large family of children he is one of five that are living. A sister, Mrs. Mary Teed, of Denver; a brother at Asbury Park, N. J.; Chester Stoddard is a resident of Sidney, New York; and Georg-e, of ^loline, Illinois. A brother, the late C. H. Stoddard, who started life in a very humble way, became prominent in both social and financial circles. From a "gin- seng" peddler he rose tO' prominence, acquiring a fortune and an en\iable reputation as a civil engineer and financier. For forty years he lived in the city of Rock Island, Illinois. Early in life he learned engineering, receiv- ing academic instructions in Oxford academy. New York, following that vocation throughout the states of New "York and Pamsj^lvania. He assisted in laying the first railroad over the Alleghany mountains in 1849-50. He was principal of the public schools of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. In 1851 he located in Rock Island, where he was engaged in civil engineering for forty years. He assisted in locating the Rock Island railroad from Daven- port across the state of Iowa ; also the old Rockford, and the Rock Island and St. Louis railroad, now the C. B. & Q. During the early part of his career he devoted much time in locating government lands in Iowa. He repre- 39 656 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sented many financial interests ; was a stockholder in the Rock Island Watch Company; the Rock Island Glass Company, and the Rock Island Stove Company, and was a director of the Rock Island and Milan railroad; the Rock Island National Bank and the Moline National Bank. Mr. King is the eldest of six children, — three sons and three daugh- ters, — all of whom are living. Earl, the eldest son, is a bridge builder, and resides in Trenton, Nebraska; Charles is a farmer of Lyon township; Anna is the wife of Freeman Nicholson, of Norton, Kansas; Hardin is a farmer of Norton county; and Myrtle, the youngest daughter and child in the family. Mr. and Mrs. King's family consists of four children. Their eldest, Richard Franklin, graduated from the Glasco high school and has taught two terms of school. He made a record worthy of mention. While attend- ing the Glasco high school, he rode from home, a distance of six miles, through all sorts of weather aild was neither tardy nor absent for one year. He has just attained his majority and occupies a prominent place in the manage- ment of the farm and stock. Clara Stella is an accomplished young lady of considerable musical talent. She graduated from District No. 46, in 1 90 1, and is now a student in the Glasco high school. The two younger children are Horace and Anis Alberta. Politically, our subject is a Republi- can. Mr. and Mrs. King are very worthy people and contribute to the sup- port of every worthy cause. LEWIS M. RISHEL. L. M. Rishel is one of the rising farmers of Summit township. He is a native of Illinois, born in Henry county in 1858, and a son of Benjamin Franklin and Martha Jane (Burdine^l Rishel. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, born in 1835. Mr. Rishel's grandfather emigrated from Ger- many, his native land, and settled among the Pennsylvania Dutch of that state in an early day. His maternal grandparents came from England and also settled in Pennsylvania. The Rishels emigrated to Illinois, where L. M. Rishel, one of their nine children, was born. When he was nine years old they moved to Johnson count)', Missouri. In 1873 they emigrated westward and settled in Dallas county, Iowa. Three years later Mr. Rishel came to Kansas and bought a farm eleven miles west of Beloit, where he lived six years. In 1888 he married Amanda, a daughter of that worthy and much esteemed pioneer, Allan Teasley. To Mr. and Mrs. Rishel two little daughters have been born, Flora May and Rhoda Fern, aged respectively, twelve and ten years. Mr. Rishel's farm, which he bought three years ago and where he now lives, consists of one hundred and sixty acres, which is mostly wheat land. The school building of district No. 54 is located on his farm. Mr. Rishel HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 657 votes with the Populist party. The family are members of the United Breth- ren church, Honey Creek congregation. ^Ir. Rishel is an honest, industrious farmer and highly respected citizen. HENRY COLTON. Henry Colton is a progressive farmer and one of the most extensive breeders of hogs in the county. He has at this writing (November, 1901) one hundred and ten head of fine thoroughbred Chester Whites that are his especial pride. Among this number are fifty-two which he is feeding for the market. He has six brood sows whose increase aggregates fifty- six pigs. He has one pedegreed sow and nine thoroughbred pigs. Mr. Colton raises on an average from one hundred and sixty to one hundred and seventy pigs annually. During the month of September, 1900, he sold ninety-three April pigs for six hundred dollars ; lumped them ofif to a Kansas City hog buyer. The proceeds of his sales in 1900 were $1,285. The first ten or a dozen years of Mr. Colton's sojourn in Kansas he says "he had to rob Peter to pay Paul,"- and "rob Paul to pay Peter," but he had worked other people's land long enough and wanted a farm of his own, so he came to Kansas, the poor man's land, to secure one. In March, 1884, he bought what was the original homestead of John Pace, one of the early settlers of Cloud county. Mr. Colton put most of the improvements on the farm, remodeled the house, erected a substantial bam, sheds, a model and modern poultry house, etc. He was burdened with a debt of two thous- and nine hundred dollars hanging over his head, but 1900 found him one of the most prosperous farmers and stockmen in the Solomon valley, with his farm clear of debt. He bought corn, fed hogs and raised good wheat; these were the industries that brought him to the front. He has been very successful the past four years. Mr. Colton is a native of Jefferson county, New York, born February I-'. 1838. He is a son of William Henry and Lucretia (Felt) Colton. His father was a Canadian by birth and served in the Patriot war of 1838, from which he never returned and was presumably killed. He was a blacksmith and wagon maker by occupation. The Felt ancestry were from the Green Mountain country of Vermont, and subsequently settled in Jefiferson county. New York. To this union three children were born. Edward and Edwin, twins. Edwin was a resident of Ottawa county for twenty-six years. In 1898 he moved to Oklahoma, where he now lives on a farm near Kingfisher. When her family of boys were small Mrs. Colton broke up housekeeping. Edward was placed with a family with whom he became dissatisfied, ran away from home at the age of fifteen years and has not been heard from since. Mr. Colton received a limited education, working in summer and at- tending school in winter. He located in Indiana when nineteen years of age and began farming for himself. In 1866 he emigrated to Benton county. 6s 8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Iowa, where he farmed until coming to Kansas in 1884. Mr. Colton was iTiarried in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1862, to Esther Clark, a daughter of D. L. Clark, of Huron county, Ohio. Mrs. Colton was a successful school teacher in Ohio and Indiana. Her mother died when she was three years old and her father when she was nine. To Mr. and Mrs. Colton have been born six sons and six daughters, viz.: James H., a farmer of Meredith township, married to Lydia Bates; they are the parents of one child, Neva. Edwin, employed as fireman on the Rock Island railroad, married Mary Hurley, a daughter of James Hur- ley (see sketch) they are the parents of three children, Ray, Frank and Theresa. Eva, the widow of William Mantz, is the mother of three chil- dren, Nona, Stella and Constance. Nellie, wife of Edwin Throckmorton, residents of Golden, Colorado, where he is employed as clerk in a store. He is a printer by trade. They have two children, Clare and Esther. Cyn- thia, wife of A. O. Holbert, a farmer and stockman of Meredith township; their family consists of two children, Fred and Lottie Marie. George, a meml^er of the police force of Denver, Colorado, married Isabella Berry, of Denver, formerly of Lincoln, Nebraska. Adelia. Lawrence and Laura, twins, (the latter died in infancy) ; Lucretia and Lenard, twins (the latter died in infancy), and Lester Grant, who was born on the anniversary of President Grant's birthday, and was named for that statesman. A.delia and Lucretia, prepossessmg young women, are members of the household. Mr. Colton is a Populist, politically. He has served his township two years as trustee, three years as treasurer and a member of the school board for several years. HANS ASMUSSEN. One of the prosperous farmers of Solomon township, who has helped to demonstrate what a poor man can do in Kansas, is Hans Asmussen, an industrious Dane. He was born in Denmark in 1853. When a boy he was apprenticed to a miller and worked in a flouring mill three years. \\'hen twenty-one years of age he entered the military service, as is the custom oi his country, and served one year. ]n 1882, he left his native land to find a home in Kansas. He came direct to this state and bought the original homestead of Moses Louthan, on Third creek. The land was under a fair state of improvement, but he built a substantial stone residence of six rooms the same year. In 1895 he built an excellent bam thirty-four feet square. This farm of two hundred and twenty-two acres is an exceptionally good one, well watered and well timbered. Mr. Asmussen was married, in 1883, to Mary Hansen, a sister of Mrs. Fred Beck. Their family consists of four boys and one daughter. Chris, a young man of seventeen years, assists with the work on the farm; Henry, Anna ^laria, Jens Peter, and Carl, are aged fifteen, thirteen, eleven and nine years, respectively. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 659 BERT PORTER. The subject of this sketch, Bert Porter, is one of the enterprising young men of Cloud county, who within a short period of time has risen from a farm hand to. one of the most prominent farmers and stockmen in the Solo- mon \alley. He has made a wonderful record, perhaps no man in the county can produce a better one. Ten years ago, Mr. Porter's worldly possessions consisted of a span of horses. He became associated with his father and bought the Vance Thompson homestead in 1891. In 1899 he purchased his father's interest in the farm and now owns four hundred and eighty acres of land with two hundred and eighty acres under cultivation. Eighty acres of this lies along Fisher creek, is heavily timbered and is a very valuable piece of ground; the other two hundred and forty acres are in Summit town- ship. Air. Porter married at the youthful age of eighteen years, December 28. 1888, Florence, one of the five daughters of Henry Stout, at this time a farmer near Simpson, but now living in the vicinity of Clyde. Her sisters are. Minnie, wife of Frank Campbell, a farmer of Republic county, ten miles north of Concordia; Maggie, wife of James Joslyn, a farmer of Republic county ; Nellie, wife of Ulysses Nicols, a farmer near Randall, Randall county, Kansas; Myrtle, who was adopted into the family of D. Joiner, her mother having died when she was an infant two weeks old. The Joiners live on a farm near Virgil, New York. Mrs. Stout was Mary Long, of Iowa. Mr. Porter is a son of Major and Eliza (Forgy) Porter. Major Porter was bom in Thelma, Fulton county, Ohio, in 1833. In his early life he was a carpenter and shoemaker. In 1875, he located in Clay county, Illinois. In 1884, he came to Brittsville, where he worked for five years at carpentering, then began farming, which occtipation he followed until his wife's death, when failing health caused him to retire, making his home with his sons until his death in the autumn of 1901. Bert Porter is one of two sons; his brother E. H., is a blacksmith and \\heelwright, located in Glasco. When Mr. Porter was married he began the stockraising business with one cow, a calf and a hog presented to Mrs. Porter as a wedding gift. He now raises from two to three hundred hogs annually and keeps on an average one hundred head of cattle. He has placed nearly all of the buildings on the farm, as it was in an unimproved state when he bought it. In 1900, he built a large basement barn, 32x64 feet in dimensions. The basement (used for feeding purposes) is 32x52. His farm is equipped with all sorts of modern farming implements and machinery. It is said the largest and best span of mules ever in Cloud county were raised on his farm. Many buyers pronounced them the test they ever saw. They were seventeen and one-half hands high and weighed one thousand five hundred pounds eacli. They were dead matches, Mr. Porter being the only person who could 66o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. distingiiish them, and he did not want to be very far away. He sold them when the mule market was low for three hundred and forty dollars. One year later they would have brought an advance of one hundred dollar^. If Mr. Porter accumulates in the same proportion in the next ten years he will certainly be one of the best demonstraters of what energy can do in Kansas without capital. ANTON SPARWASSER. Anton Sparwasser, an industrious German farmer of Solomon to\^•n- ship, is a fair representative of his thrifty and enterprising countrymen. Though Mr. Sparwasser is American born, the German largely predominates and he can scarcely speak the English language. Illinois is his native state, born in Monroe county, in 1847. His father was Anton Sparwasser and his mother before her marriage was Christine Kern, both natives of Nassau, Germany. They came to America in 1834, and settled in Monroe county, Illinois. The father died in the spring of 1877, and the mother the following autumn. Mr. Sparwasser is one of seven children, six of whom are living. They are all residents of Monroe county, Illinois, except himself. Mr. Sparwasser came to Kansas in the autumn of 1890, with a capital of $2,500. He bought two hundred and sixty acres of land (the Turkeson homestead) for a consideration of $3,000, and built a house at a cost of $1,000; he also bought teams, farm implements, two cows and a few calves. The famous possibility of a Kansas farmer had been recited to him and Mr. Sparwasser had no hesitancy in becoming involved. He, with his sons, farmed one hundred and sixty acres of rented land in addition to his own and fortunately had a large yield of wheat and corn that year, which he fed to cattle and hogs and doubled his investment; another illustration of the hundreds of farmers who have done likewise. Mr. Sparwasser has been married twice. He was married in 1871, to Anna Buck, who died, leaving four children, only one of whom is living, Caroline, wife of Phillip Ritzel, a farmer of Illinois. In 1878, he married Louisa Pape (a sister of Mrs. Berneking) ; their family consists of the following children: Henry, a bright and intelligent young man who has just attained his majority, is interested with his father in farming. He is a mem- ber of the Order of Woodmen, at Glasco. Herman, Fred, Anton, August, Emma, Lucy, Edward and Phillip, are the other members of the family. Mr. Sparwasser is a Democrat, but cast his vote for McKinley. The family are members of the Lutheran church at Glasco. JOHN V. CUNNINGHAM. J. V. Cunningham is one of those intelligent farmers and stockmfen with A\hom it is a pleasure to converse. He came from Daviess county, ^Missouri, — where he had farmed from 1857 to 1883 — to Cloud county, and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 66 1 bought the farm he now owns and hves on in Lyon township. He is a native of Belfast, Highland county, Ohio, born in 1836, and a son of Will- iam M. and Sarah Ann (White) Cunningham. His father was born in Washington county, Pennsylvania, in the year 1808. He was a farmer and stockman by occupation, and when quite a young man he moved to Ohio. After a short residence in Gallia county he settled in Highland county, and in 1857 emigrated to Daviess county, Missouri, where he died in 1875. J. V. Cunningham's paternal grandfather and great-grandfather emi- grated from the Emerald Isle to America in 1778, but were taken back by the Britisl-L. They returned in 1784, and settled in Pennsylvania, and sub- sec[uently in Ohio, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Mr. Cunningham remembers ha\'ing attended both of their funerals. His grand- father enlisted in the war of 1812, but was rejected for nearsightedness. Fie was born in 1772, and died in 1854 at the age of seventy-two years. His great-grandfather, who died at the age of one hundred and four, was born in Scotland in 1740, and died in 1844. Mr. Cunningham's maternal ancestry were HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 663 grown to manhood on the farm where he now hves. He received his edu-- cation in Glasco, and hegan life by making egg cases at one and one-half cents each, when about nine years of age. He then worked on a farm lj\' the month and secured a team; from this he has grown to be a successful man and one of the most useful citizens of Arion township. June 24, 1901, he married Miss Mary Owen, a most estimable young lady and an excellent housewife. She is a daughter of Nefi and Elzira Owen, who came to Kan- sas from Indiana, and settled on a farm in Mitchell county, where Mrs. Smitley was born. Her mother died in 1882. Her father and sister, Opal D., aged fifteen, are residents of Topeka. GEORGE SHAFER. The subject of this sketch, the late venerable George Shafer, one of the old pioneers of Cloud county, came to Kansas in the autumn of 1867, and was in the Solomon valley during the turbulent Indian raids. He was born in the "Keystone" state in 1818, and has always been a tiller of the soil. He was of German origin. His parents were John and Susan (Kellar) Shafer. When one year old his father moved from his native town, Hamil- ton, Pennsylvania, to New York, and settled in Allegany county. In 1850, Mr. Shafer emigrated to Illinois, and later in the same year entered land in the state of Iowa, when that country was very sparsely settled. Seventeen years subsequently he came to Kansas and homesteaded the land upon which he resided at the time of his demise. With his wife and nine children he lived in a dugout until the Indian raid on the 14U1 day of August. He had lumber on the ground for the purpose of erecting a dwell- ing. As the militia, that had been formed to protect the settlers, rode up the building burst into flames. They could get no water as the Indians had cut the well rope, and their dugout and its contents, including the lumber on the ground were destroyed. A large can of kerosene was supposed to have been poured over things which aided them in burning more rapidly. The family of E. J. Fowler was with the Shafers' when they discovered the band of marauders roaming around, and, knowing there was immediate danger, threw a supply of bedding and provisions into a wagon, huddled together in the one vehicle and drove rapidly away. As they did so they saw five Indians approaching and the fire was the result of the latters' visit to the dug- out. The two families joined the stockade at Minneapolis, thankful to ha^•c escaped with their lives. Mr. Shafer lost property to the amount of $1,200. including a horse stolen by the redskins. This was a severe blow to the family's prospects, and it was several years ere Mr. Shafer regained what he lost in the raid. Later the settlers established another stockade on Gilbert creek, where they would club together, plant and till their crops and return to the place of safety at night. Mr. Shafer was married, October, 1848, to Laura Belcher. They lived forty-eight }'ears and seven months of happy wedded life together, and to 664 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. this union fourteen children were born, all but one of whom are living, — ten daughters and three sons, — viz. : Alpha J., wife of J. G. Lancaster, a farmer and stockman of Lincoln county; Eliza Ann is her fathers house- keeper, and is an industrious and excellent woman; Mary Lovina, wife of J. Harshbarger, a farmer and stockman of Lincoln covmty; Susan Helen, died at the age of five years in Iowa; Lucy Elmira, wife of W. P. Doty, a farmer of Cloud county; Olive Adell, wife of J. R. Clarke, a farmer, stockman and railroad man, and at the present time depot agent at Milo, Lincoln county, Kansas ; George Washington ; Rachel Irene, wife of J. B. Sage, an extensive farmer and stockman of Lyon township; Emma Lucretia, wife of O. C. Harris, a miner of Jamestown, Colorado; Frances Arvilla, wife of A. C. Greeley, a farmer near Longmont, Colorado; Oliva Amadella, wife of \\'. M. Clark, a farmer and stockman near Delphos (Mrs. Clark was the first child of the family born in Kansas) ; Laura Luna, wife of E. C. Greely, a miner of Goldhill, Colorado; William Henry, a farmer of Lincoln county, Kansas, married Emma Jones; John Freeman, the youngest child, is a farmer and married Bertha Diehuel. The Shafers were members of the Congregational church, but when they settled in Iowa the church of their choice did not exist there and they joined the Methodist Episcopal church. After locating in Kansas they joined the congregation of United Brethren. It became disorganized and they united with the Christian church, and are regular attendants and active workers. By the death of Mr. Shafer a long and useful life has been brought to a close. He was a man of many admirable traits of character. He lived an honorable life of four score and four j'ears ere he joined the hosts of the un- known where many of the snowy-headed pioneers have gone on before, and where his wife preceded him on June 7, 1898. He was a devoted friend of every good cause and in his passing the community lost one of its most highly respected citizens. J. P. STUDT, An old landmark of Solomon township, who emigrated to the Solomon valley in the spring of 1867, and settled two and one-half miles south of where Glasco now stands, is J. P. Studt. He and a brother, Jacob Studt, who was with him, took up homesteads and "bached" together in a dugout fourteen years, where they endured many hard experiences. They were com]5elled to go to Minneapolis to get their plows sharpened and to Solomon City to mill, and upon their return Avould distribute their breadstuff among their neighbors, who were far apart. During the Indian raid of 1868, J. Studt was out hunting horses and came near being captured. During this raid the savages approached within a quarter of a mile of their dugout. Mr. Studt and his brother as- sisted in the burial of the \'ictims of the massacre. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 665 Mr. Studt was born in Danish Prussia in 1843, and when ten years of age came to America with his father's family and settled in Monroe county. Illinois. Although Mr. Studt did not attend school in America, he reads and writes English and has a good German education. He learned English by reading the Junction City Union. He was interested in what the papers said of the new West, its railroad prospects, emigration, Indian troubles, etc. A desire for procuring this information led him to pursue English literature. Mr. Studt's father died in Illinois on October 7, 1864. His mother died in Germany when he was a youth nine years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Studt were the parents of eleven children, only two of whom are living. The brother who came to Cloud county, died in January, 1892. Mr. Studt was married in 1879, to Miss Augusta Wislimsky. Their family consists of five children, viz. : Phillip, a young man of twenty. Charlie, aged eighteen. Henry, aged sixteen. Anna, a young girl of fourteen. Fred, a boy of thirteen years. Mrs. Studt was born in Germany and at the age of twenty-four years came to America. Her father died when she was two years of age. The mother came to America in 1884, and died in 1898 at the home of Mrs. Studt, where she had lived for several years. Mr. Studt owns three hundred and sixty acres of fertile land. In 1891 he sold the homestead and bought his present farm., upon which he keeps from fifty to sixty head of native cattle. He votes the Republican ticket. The family are members of the Lutheran Church. DODDRIDGE F. SHEFFIELD. D. F. Sheffield, a farmer and stockman of Lyon township, five miles east of Glasco, is a native of Indiana, born in 1861, in Kosciusko county, twelve miles from Warsaw. When nine years of age he came with his father's family to Kansas, and settled in Linn county, and in 1876 came to Cloud county. His parents are Charles and Cynthia (Funk) Sheffield. His father was born in Rochelle, New York, in 1833, and came to Indiana with his parents when a lad. He farmed in Indiana, but in his earlier life was a school teacher. He took up a homestead in Cloud county, four miles north of Glasco, where he lived nine years, sold and then went to Topeka, v.here he worked in the repairing department of the Santa Fe railroad shops, and the last three years of his life was foreman there. He died in April, 1901. He was a bright and educated man. He was a Republican in politics and when the Santa Fe had any business to transact they had confidence enough in his ability to make him their representative and sent him out to campaign for them. He was an old and popular employe; had been with them thirteen years and by his kindly disposition made many friends, who were shocked to hear of his demise. He died suddenly of heart trouble after a few days of indisposition. He was of English parentage. His ancestors were seafaring men, his paternal grandfather having been captain of a British merchant- 666 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. man. Charles Sheffield moved to Indiana when a boy and received a high school education. He was a rnan of more than ordinary intelligence and a great reader. He was connected with the Cloud County Empire as a solicitor for subscriptions and advertisements and contributed articles to the news- papers which won for him commendation. He served in the Union army as a private in the Thirty-first Indiana Infantry. He was a member of the Second Presbyterian church of Topeka, of, the Grand Army of the Republic and a Mason. The Monday prior to his death six children and ten grand- children and a number of friends assembled to celebrate their forty-sixth anniversary. D. F. Sheffield's mother is a native of Ohio, of German origin. He is one of seven children, viz.: Mrs. W. C. Scott, of Oklahoma; Mrs. F. H. Hood, of Topeka; Mrs. J. N. Hughes, of Kansas City; Charles Sheffield, of Kansas City, a conductor on the Fort Scott & Memphis railroad; J. S. a carpenter in the Santa Fe shops of Topeka; and R. E., a painter with resi- dence in Topeka. D. F. Sheffield has always been a farmer. He began by renting land, and in 1894 bought the splendid farm where he now lives. It then consisted of one hundred and sixty acres, but in June, 1901, he bought an adjoining quarter section, built a nice little cottage of four rooms, good cellar, ice house, etc. He has a good young orchard and fruit of every description started. He has been very successful in growing evergreen trees and has a fine lot of them started. His ground is mostly wheat land. He keeps a herd of about forty Flereford and Shorthorn cattle. In 1887, he married Frances N., a daughter of .\. Newell (see s.ketch). Mi'- Sheffield is a Re- publican in politics and is a member of the Knights of Pythias lodge. He is one of the rising young farmers of the Solomon valley. SUSANNAH BOND. Miss Susannah Bond, the subject of this sketch, settled in the Solomon valley, when it was in its primitive state and is one of the oldest remaining settlers. Miss Bond is a native of Lawrence county, Indiana, born in 1825. Her parents were John and Alice ( Nelms) Bond. Her father was a native of North Carolina and her mother of Georgia. They both died in Orange county, Indiana, her mother in 1854, and her father in 1857. Miss Bond is the youngest and only living member of a family of four- teen children. She emigrated to Kansas with two brothers and a sister and all lived together. Nathan was deceased December 11, 1871, Sarah M., in 1889, and John N. in 1891. They came to K.ansas in 1866, and filed on the land included in her present farm in 1867. The year previous they spent in Dickinson county, and during the Indian uprisings they located in Daviess count)'. Missouri. In the meantime other parties made an effort to secure HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 667 her claim and in 1869 she returned, contested her right, and again returned to Missouri. In 1870 she again came to Kansas, settled on her homestead and has since resided in Cloud county. Miss Bond was here during the first Indian raid, and witnessed some of the results of their depredations — the dead and wounded settlers. She lived in a dugout until her present residence was erected about fifteen years ago. She has experienced the hardships incident to life on the frontier. One-half of her dugout fell in during a heavy rain storm, and her efforts were many times seemingly baffled trying to keep the wolf from the door. Miss Bond has always taken a great interest in church work and has lived the life of a consistent Christian woman. She has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal church during the greater part of her seventy-seven years. Her father was a local Methodist Episcopal preacher. The Methodist Episcopal church of Glasco was organized in 1870, and Miss Bond was the first to unite with the congregation. Mrs. Adrastus Newell, William Abbott, Miss Bond's two brothers, her sister and herself composed the entire membership at the time of organization. Miss Bond lives on the old homestead and a niece, Mrs. D. D. Hannum, and family live with her. . "■ CONRAD ROMEISER. Conrad Romeiser, like all the old pioneers of Cloud county, has made interesting history. He landed in Solomon City, March 3, 1869. He was born in Hessen, Nassau, Germany, in 1846, and has inherited the thrift of his nation. His father, Nicholas Romeiser, served twelve years in the service of his native country, entering the army when but seventeen years of age, and remaining until discharged on account of disability. He then followed farming and later engaged in the butcher and meat market business. He died August 20, 1866. Mr. Romeiser's mother died when he was an infant, leaving himself and. brother, Peter M., who has risen from obscurity to prominence as a citizen and enterprising man of Belleville, Illinois, where he is a wholesale and retail merchant, doing an extensive business. Their father by a previous marriage had two children and by a third, five children. Mr. Romeiser was educated in the schools of his fatherland and just prior to attaining his majority set sail for America. His destination was St. Louis, where his brother had preceded him. He arrived in Chicago with one dollar and a ticket to St. Louis, and borro^\'ed one dollar from a stranger he had traveled with. He had served an apprenticeship as butcher in Germany, but not speaking English it was difficult to secure work at his trade, and he resorted to the country, where he became a farm, hand near Waterloo, Illinois, and where he earned his first salary on American soil. He shook with ague for many months, was bitterly discouraged and would have returned to his native land could he have paid his passage. In 1869 he and his brother came to Kansas. They had heard many 668 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fr-il)ulous stories of the homestead lands and through correspondence with the Studt brotliers and a friend they were induced to try their fortunes in the "New West." They selected claims in the Solomon Valley, returned to Solomon City, walked from there to Junction City, filed on their claims and walked back to their new lands feeling like kings and princes. As soon as spring opened Mr. Romeiser walked to Junction City, where the Missouri, Kansas, & Texas railroad was in course of construction and found work, remaining until the railroad was finished within three miles of Emporia. He owed his brother one hundred and twenty-five dollars, and much of his wages went to meet this obligation. In the winter of 1869-70 he lived with the Studt brothers, — Phillip and Jacob, — who were "baching" in the dugout on their claim. Mr. Romeiser says, "he had no place to lay his head and they took him in for God's sake." The following spring he again went to Junction City, where he worked at all sorts of jobs— on tile streets, made bologna and was a general "roustabout." In the summer of 1870 the country was rapidly filbng up with settlers and he built a dugout on his claim. He would return occasionally and build a big fire so that the emigrants and neighbors could see the spiral smoke curling upward from his chimney and know that "Cooney" was home and would not jump his claim. In 1870 he hired Mr. Misell and Mr. Grittmann to break some prairie land. At that time these men were not as expert with the plow as they became later in life, and, with their oxen as animal power, made very crooked rows. This same Grittmann walked and carried a gallon bucket of lard all the way from Junction City to his claim on the Solomon. He was slightly weary, perhaps, but as he thought of the delicious gravy they could make, it became a precious burden and comparatively light. Mr. Romeiser paid four dollars per acre for the turnfng of his sod. The next year he traded and succeeded in getting more done. For five years he did not have a horse or animal of any description and operated his farm by working for his neighbors, and in return getting their horses or oxen with which to till his ground. Five years from the time he homesteaded he bought at forced sale an old mare, so balky at times she would not pull "the hat off his head." For this, his first article of stock, he paid sixty-six dollars and fifty cents. Charles Horn loaned him part of the money for his investment, which after all proved a good one, she being an excellent brood mare and from her he raised fine colts. In 1874 Mr. Romeiser began to prosper. He traded around and got two ponies, took a trip, and was flourishing when the grass- hoppers and drouth overtook the country. But the grasshopper year proved the "fattest" for him as he left his homestead that winter, went to Marys- \ille, where he had friends, and secured a place to work where he could get all he wanted to eat and drink, returning to his claim in the spring with his face as round and slick as an onion. On account of the grasshoppers and drouth he sold to Allen Teasley seventy-five dollars worth of hogs and donated some poultry for good meas- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 669 ure. In the meantime Mr. Teasley died and Mr. Romeiser was sorely dis- tressed, thinking tlie deceased might not have made provision for the pay- ment of thi^ bill or it might not be understood by the wife and sons. But upon inquiry he found the good wife had saved the money for him. With this lie bought plows and other things needed on the farm. He now began to add other land to his homestead, in the meantime borro\\ing four hundred dollars for one year, paying fifteen per cent inter- est. He engaged in stock raising and has made his money in feeding and shipping hogs and cattle. He now owns three hundred and twenty acres of fine land, and in 1894 built a commodious house of six rooms and two wide halls. He has a large bank barn 36x80, one of the finest in the county. He lived in a dugout for about eight years and in 1882, built a small stone house over the cellar which was then considered a pretentious home. His first dugout was on the bank of the creek. During a wet season he was drowned out. It had been raining several days, but he did not anticipate an overflow and was sleeping soundly. He was awakened by D. W. Teas- ley shaking the door of his hut and hallooing. He inquired the meaning of their excitement and as he looked about, saw the dugout was flooded with water several feet deep,- his trunk and "baching"' utensils floating around the room, and the creek, a roaring, booming river. Mr. Romeiser at once repaired to the little hog pen, kicked the boards loose and let the hogs out. The struggling and half drowned swine were sticking their noses upon one another's back to keep from drowning. Mr. Romeiser was married in 1878 to Caroline Gnatkowsky, a native of Germany, who came with her parents to .America in 1871 and settled in New Baltimore. In 1877 they came to Kansas and took up a homestead on the divide, where her mother died in 1895, and her father in 1898. Mr. and ]\Jrs. Romeiser have a family of six children, viz: Herman, a fanner; Henr}-, with his father on the farm ; and four exceedingly bright little girls, Margaret, Mary, Louise and Lenore. , Now while looking over his little home Mr. Romeiser can have some satisfaction in recalling the hardships endured while procuring it. JOHN EBERHARDT. The subject of this sketch is John Eberhardt, a farmer and stockman of Lyon township and a native of Germany, born near Frankfort-on-the-Rhine in 1834. He had not yet attained his majority when he touched the soil of the Western Hemisphere in 1848, and settled in Washington county, Wisconsin. His father was Valentine Eberhardt, a thrifty German farmer. He emigrated from Wisconsin to Kansas in 1874, and bought a farm adja- cent to the city of Salina, where he died in 1890. Mr. Eberhardt's mother was Anna Maria Steele; she died when our subject — their only child — was a small lad. His father then married Catherine Artz, a half- sister of his first wife. To them were born six, children, fi\e sons and one daughter, four of whom are living. 670 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ^Ir. Eberhardt removed from Wisconsin to Illinois, and at the call for volunteers he enlisted in Company H, Eighth Illinois Cavalry, under Captain Hooker and General Stone. They were most actively engaged in Virginia. He served three years and during that period was under fire fifty-four times. Mr. Eberhardt was in the hospital for one year, suffering from an accident occasioned by his horse falling while crossing a creek near Alexandria, Vir- ginia, and disabling him; in fact, he has never fully recovered from the effects ; has been a physical wreck since the war and at times suffers intensely. Receives a pension of but eight dollars per month. He is entirely deaf on the right side from a blank cartridge hred against his ear by an Irishman. Mr. Eberhardt emigrated to Iowa in 1868, and from there to Kansas in 1873, where he took up a homestead and later traded for the place he now lives on. Mr. Eberhardt is a horticulturist and has one of the finest peach orchards in the county, and a fine bearing apple orchard of two hun- dred trees. His farm consists of one hundred and sixty acres and is under a high state of improvement. The beautiful wooded little stream, Chris creek, runs through his place. Mr. Eberhardt was married in 1857 to Eveline McHorn, and in 1867 to Miss Mary Ann Surgeon. By this second marriage there are five boys and two girls: Frank C, a farmer of Bourbon county, Kansas; Albert M., a farmer of Lyon township; Valentine, Grant and John H. are interested in the farm and stock at home; Lizzie, the widow of Clint Cossell, and Leola May, -aged fourteen. Mr. Eberhardt is a man esteemed for his worth and strict integrity, being possessed of many worthy traits of character, he has a large circle of ardent friends. JAMES H. XEAL. Among the early settlers who came to Kansas in the fall of 1870 is J. H. Neal, who lived during the winter of that year on the Solomon river near Solomon City, in the spring time of 1871, moving to Cloud county and home- steading the farm where Charles Pilcher now lives. During the grasshopper year he was forced to i-eturn to Ohio in order to make a living for his family. He worked in the Champion shops at Springfield until the autumn of 1878, when he again returned to Kansas, remaining two years, returning the second time to Springfield. In the meantime he decided that with the drouth and grasshoppers there was no better place than Kansas, and accordingly returned in 1886. In 1875 he traded his homestead for the place where he now lives, which is one of the best farms in the community. Much of it is wheat land and in 1901, he had eighty-five acres which yielded twenty-two bushels per acre, and the year prior the average \\-as twenty-eight bushels per acre. Mr. Neal is a native of Ohio, born in 1834 on a farm near Urbana, Champaign county. His father was St. Ledger Xeal, a native of Maryland, born near Hagerstown in 1805, but who came to Ohio when a young man. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 671 where he lived until his death in 1865. Mr. Neal's grandfatlier, Aquilla Neal, was also a native of Maryland. The Neals were of English and Irish descent. Mr. Xeal's mother was Clarissa (Pearce) Neal, born and reared in Urbana, Ohio, her father having moved there from Kentucky in 1801. Her brother, Milton, was the first white child born in Urbana, then an Indian village. Mr. Neal's mother died in 1891. He is one of eleven children, ten of whom lived to maturity. Mr. Neal lived on the farm until the age of nine- teen years, when he A^-ent into a machine shop as an apprentice, working at his trade most of the time until 1886. He was married in 1863 to Sarah Jane Pitzer, daughter of Jacob and Almeda (Rexford) Pitzer. Pier father was born in Kentucky and when two years old came to Ohio with his parents and settled in Brown county, on the Ohio river, where he grew to manhood. He learned the shoemaker's trade, which he followed along with hunting and trapping, for several years, then moved to Indiana and later to Illinois, where he died in 1844. Early in life he lost a Hmb. The Pitzers were of German origin, Mrs. Neal's grandfather coming from Germany. Almeda (Rexford) Pitzer was bom in Jefferson county, New York. AA'hen four years of age she A^-ent with her parents to Michigan, and the fol- lowing spring the war of 1812 began, during which time they were stationed at Fort Huron for protection from the Indians. Peace was made when she was seven years old, Avhich event she remembers distinctly and al^out this time her father moved to Lower Sandusky, Ohio, where she was reared and married. She was married in 1826 to Jacob Pitzer, who died in 1844. She was again married in 1847 to John D. Armstrong, who died August 2T, 1853. Mrs. Armstrong is the mother of twelve children, ten of these by the first marriage and two by the second. Five of them are living. Mrs. Armstrong is li\-ing with her daughter, Mrs. Neal, at the age of ninet}--five years. She has a sister in Fort Collins, Colorado, who is eighty years of age, and a brother two years her junior. Philander Rexford, whose address is 408 Park avenue, Syracuse, New York. The following was clipped from an October i, 1901, issue of the Post-Standard, Syracuse, New York: "Philander Rexford, of 408 Park avenue, this city, was not only alive at the time of Perry's great victory over the British on Lake Erie in 181 3, but he lays claim to have been practically an eye witness of the famous naval battle. He was within hearing distance of the guns, and although he is now a man ninety-two years of age, his recollection of the engagement and the events surrounding it seem quite distinct. "Mr. Rexford was 1)orn in Sandy Creek, Jefferson county. New York, September 5, 1809, and in 181 1 moved to Detroit, Michigan, with his par- ents. In the following year the war of 1812 was declared, and subsequently Detroit and the entire Michigan territory was taken by the British. The Rexfords were forced to leave their home with many others of Detroit and found refuge in Fort Huron, at the mouth of the Huron river. "Detroit at that time, Mr." Rexford says, ^vas but a small village. It 40 6/2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. was, however, the key to the northwestern part of the United States and its surrender by Hull was a blow to the American army. "It was while at Fort Huron on Lake Erie that Mr. Rexford heard the booming guns of the battle. He was then a bo}- of four years and the engage- ment occurred but a few miles from the fort. "He says he remembers distinctly the excitement in the fort and the ramarks of the American soldiers as broadside after broadside shook the air : 'There goes another broadside,' they would say, or 'There's a breaker for Barkley's ribs.' Barkley was the British commodore. Many such ejacula- tions Mr. Rexford remembers and also the scenes of rejoicing at the announce- ment of the victory. The men and women in the fori went wild with joy and excitement. Guns were fired and drums beaten. "Hull was immediately forced to retire from Detroit and the refugees were allowed to return. The grandmother of Mr. Rexford had been taken •prisoner at the capture of Detroit by Hull, and was forced by tlie British sol- diers and Indians, who comix>sed his force, to walk from the homestead into th.e city, carrying her six-year-old child. The distance was long and she suffered many hardships. "Ohio at that time was filled with British soldiers and the scarlet coats were common sights. At the close of the war many of the soldiers in the northern territories were discharged and found their way to England by traveling across the coimtry. Mr. Rexford remembers seeing many of them. In many cases, he says, the American settlers extended courtesy to them, but in many other cases it was hard for Americans to treat them as anything but enemies. "Mr. Rexford was at Fremont, Ohio, when Major Crawn with one hun- dred and thirty men in Fort Stevenson, defeated seven hundred Indians and several hundred British and their allies. It was thought by the attacking party that a breach had been made in the ■(A'alls of the fort and hundreds of men were poured into the trench which surrounded it. ^Vhile in this trench the Americans opened fire with a gun stationed in a block house so situated that its fire swept the trench. The gun which did the execution was known as 'Betsy,' and is still at the fort. "Mr. Rexford says that he remembers the remark of an Irishman taken prisoner at the battle. 'Sure,' said Pat, 'I thought it was a hog pen we were attackin', and I found it a hornets' nest.' "Mr. Rexford visited the coal fields of Pennsylvania, where he made a study of the economical use of that fuel. In 1863 he came to Syracuse, where he was engaged by the salt companies to instruct their firemen in the use of coal, it at that time being a new fuel. "Since then he has been engaged in the same business, although his present age prevents his engaging as acti\ely in it as formerly. His pet theme is the lessening of the smoke which curls from the chimneys of the city factories. "Although the brother and sisters have not seen each other for twenty- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 673 five years, they correspond regularly. A.ll are well preserved and active, considering their great age and bid fair to Hve many more years." To Mr. and Mrs. Neal have been born three children, two of whom are living, viz : Philander Rexf ord, traveling salesman for the S. F. Baker Medicine Company, of Keokuk, Iowa, and who was formerly a farmer of Lyon township, where he still owns land. He is a very successful salesman and collector. Some ten years ago he was married to Miss Addie Jones, a Glasco girl. They have one child, Paul Rexford, a bright little boy of nine years. Clara, wife of Price Baker, of Glasco, salesman for the Cham- pion Machine Company. They have three daughters, Lois N., Lottie May, and Margaret Maud. Mr. and Mrs. Neal lost a daughter, Olive E., a prom- ising young lady of seventeen years, who died December 3, 1891. She was a graduate of the Glasco schools, and died of spinal meningitis, brought on by overstudy. Mr. Neal is a Republican and cast his first vote for Salmon P. Chase for governor of Ohio. It was not his fault that he did not serve in the late war as he was examined and rejected three times. Mr. Neal was the first trustee and assisted in laying out the first roads in Lyon township. Mr. and Mrs. Neal are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. ADRASTUS NEWELL. Another of those old landmarks of Solomon township is Adrastus New- ell, whose present good financial standing has been attained entirely through his own perseverance. His reputation for honesty and integrity is an envi- able one, his hospitality is well known and his friends are legion. He lives one mile east of Glasco in one of those good old-f asltioned farm houses whose exterior and interior bespeak all the comforts a well-to- do farmer and his family can enjoy. His home is presided over by Mrs. Newell, who is a true helpmate to her husband and who possesses that most desirable attribute, an excel- lent housewife, as the neatness of their horne testifies. Mr. Newell is a native of Jeffer- son county, Newr York, born near Sackett's Harbor in 183 1. He is a son of Origen Stores and Sarah (Baker) Newell. His father was born in Vermont, October 4, 1802, and Avhen five years of age moved with his parents to the state of New York. Arriving at mature years he became a farmer, emigrated to Wisconisn and Mr. and Mrs. Adrastus Newell. 674 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. settled in Jefferson county, forty-five miles distant from the city of Alil- Avankee, where he died in t868. Mr. Newell's grandfather was in the ^var of 1812, Mr, Newell says he remembers him distinctl}-, as he occasionally applied the chastening rod to him. an occurrence often made indelible on the memory of a boy. His paternal great-grandparent emigrated from Eng- land to Vermont and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Mr. Newell can only recall his mother as she was robed for burial. She died when he was but four years of age. He remembers his maternal grandfather who was very much of a recluse, hence Mr. Newell knows but little of his ma- ternal ancestors other than they were of Holland origin. Mr. Newell was one of elex-en children. There were seven by a second marriage. Of these he only knows of a brother, living in Wisconsin, and a sister in Idaho. Mr. Newell began at the foundation when he entered upon a career for himself. He worked at anything he could find to do, on the farm, teaming, and gathering wood ashes for a soda factory (in those days ashes were col- lected for the manufactin-e of soda). Later he worked in the Wisconsin pineries for $17 per month. Out of his earnings he saved enough to buy the undivided half of a three imndred and twenty acre tract of land se\-en- teen miles from Green Bay, ami fourteen miles from Appleton, Wisconsin. He paid $150 in gold for a yoke of oxen. The land was 'heavily timbered. He cleared one hundred acres in one year, employing five men. Mr. Xewell says he worked so hard and tried to accomplish so much that he shingled a barn by moonlight. He would start to market with a load of wheat at 5 a. m. Perhaps his breakfast would be a biscuit frozen so hard he could scarcely eat it. There he lived thirteen years and in 1866 came to Kansas. He had served his country the last year of the war in Compan}- A, First ^^^isconsln Cavalry, under General Wilson of Cuban war fame, who had command of all the cavalry of the army of the Tennessee. Mr. >,'ewell was promoted to commissary sergeant. He was. discharged in Wedgefield, Georgia, returned to ^\'isconsin and the following year sold his farm. ]^lrs. Newell's people had preceded them to Kansas and he had heard a great deal about the state during the war. These Avere the inducements which brought them here, and at the persuasion of friends he filed on a homestead three miles north of Glasco, which he sold later with the intention of going to California, but when the opportunity presented itself he realized more forcibly than ever before that Kansas was a great and prosperous state, and, concluding to remain, he bought his present valuable farm in 1883. Mr. Newell has improved this place, making it one of the finest in the country. His residence is a commodious one of eight rooms, splendid barns, sheds for vehicles and implements, shelter for his cattle and a capacious gran- ary. When in Wisconsin, Mr. Newell with his sisters, attended the Oneida Mission church, where he met Mary A. Frost, a teacher in the Mission school, whom he married in 1856. Mrs. Newell was born in the state of Ohio. When she was five years of age her parents moved to New York HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 675 n'here tliey remained seven j^ears and then removed to Wisconsin. Her father was Aaron Frost, a native of New Hampshire. He emigrated to New York, where he married, and afterward settled in Ohio. He was burned to death in 1845 along with his residence or burned so badly that he died as a result. A band of robbers were infesting the neighborhood. A man whom he knew to be one of the party was tolled into the Frost residence and his attention occupied until another party who had received a signal from Mr. Frost summoned an officer. The man was arrested, found guilty and sen- tenced to five years in prison. At the expiration of his term Mr. Frost's residence was burned to the ground and six weeks later his saw mill, un- doubtedly the work of an incendiary. Their home was in Ashtabula county, on the shores of Lake Erie. Her mother was Almira Sterling of New York. Mrs. Newell's ma- ternal grandmother was a Whittlesly, who was married in Connecticut, and made the trip to Vermont four times on horseback. The first time she traveled alone, the second with one baby, the third with two; after that they became too numerous to travel on horseback. Mrs. Newell's great- gra.ndfather was a member of the famous "Boston Tea Party," a name popularly given to the famous assemblage of citizens in Boston, December 16, 1773, who met to carry out the non-impoi'tation resolves of the colony. Disguised as Indians, they went on board three ships which had just arrived in the harbor, and threw several hundred chests of tea into the sea. The Whittleslys were of English origin, as were also the Sterlings. To Mr. and Mrs. Newell five children were born, four daughters and one son, viz: Alice, wife of Gilbert Fuller (see sketch). Helen Agnes, wife of James Pilcher (see sketch). Fannie A., wife of D. F. Sheffield (see sketch). Hattie H., wife of Elsworth Woodward, a farmer of Os- borne county, Kansas. Seth Paul is associated with his father on the farm. He is a graduate of the Glasco high school and took a two year's prepara- tory course in the Wesleyan College at Salina. The two eldest daughters took a two years course in the Concordia Normal School and taught until their marriages. The daughters are intellectual women, good wives and mothers. Mr. Newell is a Republican and takes an active interest in political issues. The. family for years have been members of the Methodist Episcopal church. The Newell residence is a home for all the pastors. When the church is in need of finances or work to be done, Mr. Newell is called upon. He is generous, public spirited and a supporter of every worthy cause. Has been post commander of the Grand Army of the Republic of Glasco for the past five years. Mr. Newell is one of the few pioneers left of 1868, who gathered to- gether for work \vhile others stood guard upon some high point of ground where they could scan the country over for a glimpse of the wily red man. The first thing in the morning, with gun in hand, was to take a survey for the Indian and at night the same thing was repeated : During the times of 676 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Indian scares they would often join the settlers at the stockade. The buf- falo and antelope furnished an abundance of meat. On one hunt Mr. Newell and his party brought in several quarters of buffalo and seventeen wild turkeys. Their first Christmas dinner in Kansas was distinguished by wild tur- key, and no finer roast could be produced from out the barnyard flock of do- mestic fowls. The country resounded with the yelp of hungry coyotes and often while milking the cows these hungry beasts would come within a few feet of them and lick their chops like dogs. W. C. BERNE ICING. W. C. Berneking, the subject of this sketch, 's a self-made man, earn- i-ng his living since he was ten years old, being thrown on the world home- less and penniless at that age, and doing whatever he could find to do to gain a livelihood for several years. He was born in Germany in 1856, and came to America with his par- ents when an infant, settling on a farm in Monroe county, Illinois. His father was Henry Berneking and died when his son, W C, was ten }ears old. His mother was Christina (Bower) Berneking and died while the fam- ily were enroute to America, and was buried at sea. Henry Berneking was a shoemaker in Germany but followed farming principally in America. He married the second time, and by this marriage several children were brini, all of whom died, one daughter dying at the age of sixteen years. Mr. Berneking had a brother, Fred, wlio went as a substitute in the army for their father who was drafted, and died of smallpox at Memphis, Tennessee. He had been discharged at the close of the war and had started home when he was taken ill at' Memphis. W. C. Berneking was married in the autumn of 1883, to Caroline ]\Iar- garet Pape,- a daughter of Henry and Wilhelmena (Moenkhoff) Pape, natives of Germany. Her father died in 1877 and her mother the last day of the year 1885. Her father was twice married. There were five children by the first marriage and eight by the second, four of whom are living, three daughters and one son, a sister, Mrs. Sparwasser, living in Cloud county, near Glasco, another Erstina Gerber, of Monroe county, Illinois, and a brother, Herman Pape, also of the latter place. JNfr. Berneking has prospered in Kansas. Pie came to the state with six hundred dollars and lived upon rented land seven vears. In 1891 he bought the Al Edwards homestead near Simpson, which is one of the many good farms in that part of the county. He has now in course of erection a ten room, two-story frame residence, 44 by 34 feet in dimensions. He owns one hundred and sixty acres of land and raises cattle and hogs. He has a barn 48 by 60 feet in dimensions, and the Solomon river runs through his place. To Mr. and Mrs. Bernekhig have been born seven children, six of whom HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 677 are living, the eldest having died in infancy. Louisa, sixteen years of age, Lydia, Plenry, Mary, George and Catherine. The family are members of the Lutheran church of Glasco. Mr. Berneking is a Republican in politics, and socially is a member of the order of Maccabees at Simpson, Lodge No. 67. JOSEPH H. MARTIN. J. H. Martin of Solomon township, is a progressive and prosperous farmer. Mr. Martin farmed rented land until he bought a part of the "Jake" Cossell homestead, in 1897, which is situated one mile northwest of Glasco. A new and handsome cottage residence enhances the pleasing effect of this desirable farm of eighty acres. Mr. Martin was born in McLean county, Illinois, in the year 1859, his paraits being Robert and Maria (Sewerds) Martin. He is the second son of a family of nine children, seven living, viz : Charles Edgar, a farmer of Lane county, Kansas; Anna, wife of Norman Jordan, one of the most suc- cessful farmers of the Solomon valley; John D., a farmer near Des Moines, Iowa; Frank A., a farmer of Grove county, Kansas; Cecil a farmer of Sol- omon township, is married to a daughter of George Colwell, a far- mer living near Glasco; Emily, is the wife of J. H. Suiters, a farmer of Cove county, Kansas. Mr. Martin wasceared on a farm in Illinois and educated in the com- mon schools of that region. In 1879, he came to try his fortunes in the great agricultural state of Kansas and settled in Mitchell county, where he farmed until 1883, and then transferred his residence to Cloud county. His par- ents joined him in 1879, .and, like him, changed their residence from I\Iitch- ell county to the vicinity of Glasco. His father died the same j^ear (1883), and his mother in the spring time of 1890. Mr. Martin was married in the spring of 1885, to Belle Snyder, a daughter of those old pioneers. Captain and Mrs. Snyder of Glasco. She is a woman of culture and refined instincts. They are the parents of one child, Roy D., aged fifteen years, a fine, handsome boy and a good student. Mr. Martin's political views are such as to cause him to vote the Demo- cratic ticket. Socially he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Modern AA^oodmen and Fraternal Aid Society of Glasco. He is one of the substantial men of the Glasco communit}- and a good citizen and neighbor. FREDERICK DIMANOSKL Another of those thrifty, frugal German farmers who have found peace and plenty in the "Sunflower" state is Frederick Dimanoski, of Solomon township. A native of Germany, \\here he was bom in 1863, he emigrated with his parents to America in 1872, and settled in Jefferson county. New 678 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. York. In 1875 the family emigrated to Kansas, and after one year in Great Bend tliey removed to Mitchell county, and bought land four miles south of Simpson, where his father died in 1892. John Dimanoski, his father, was a native of Prussia. He was a musician of prominence and for many years leader of the band and orchestra of Falkenstein, Germany. His brother is an overseer in the locomotive building of Berlin. ]\Ir. Dimanoski's mother before her marriage was Esther Sukan. She lives with her only daughter, Minnie, on the farm near Simpson. Of a family of five children, but two are li\'ing. Mr. Dimanoski recei/ed a good education in both German and English and began his career as a farm hand and was in the employ of James Rob- ertson near Simpson four years. In 188.4 he married Adaline, a daughter of that worthy old settler, Charles Horn, of Glasco (see sketch). To this union three children have been born, two daughters and a son. Carl Fred- erick, the eldest child and son born in 1892, died at the age of eighteen months. The little daughters are Irene L. and Freeda, aged seven and nine years, respectively. In 1890, Mr. Dimanoski bought the Howard homestead which had but few impro\'ements. In 1900 he erected a splendid barn 26 by 46 feet in dimensions. Their residence is small but comfortable, and doubtless ere many months have elapsed will be discarded for a new and more commodi- ous one. This excellent farm with its well kept orchards and finely culti- vated fields, consists of one hundred and sixty acres* of fertile soil inter- sected by the Solomon river which furnishes an abundance of water and tim- ber. Tlie chief products of his fields are corn and alfalfa. He keeps a herd of ihoroughbred native cattle and in ordinary years from forty to eighty head of hogs. Mr. Dimanoski is one of those good managers who never fail to pros- per and accumulate a competency and is destined to be one of the leading farmers of the community. Both he and his wife are industrious people, good neighbors and citizens. ]:)ANIEL M. BOURNE. The subject of this sketch, D. M. Bourne, is a native of Massachusetts, bom in South Dartmouth, a village on Buzzard's bay, in 1847. His father was an old sea captain of New Bedford, Massachusetts, and spent twenty- eight years of his life on the briny deep ; went on ship as cabin boy ancl worked himself up to captain. At the time of the gold excitement of 1849, he, with t\\ent}--five others fitted up a vessel of which he was captain and sailed to California: sold their ship and engaged in mining. In 1851, he emigrated to Wisconsin and settled on a farm in Calumet countv, where he died in 1SS3. D. M. Bourne's mother was born on the island of Nantucket, and she was a liileal descendant of John Smith, who came on the Mayflower. Her HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 679 father was a seafaring man and operated a mackerel and cod Hshing \-essel. His fishing vessel was captured and taken by the British in the war of 1812. They selected his vessel from among many others because it was new, and took it in tow. The sailors pursued the British and when close upon them the British set fire to the \'essel and turned it loose. Mr. Bourne's mother died in Wisconsin. Our subject is one of nine children, six of whom are living. Mr. Bourne was married in 1875, and in the autumn of 1876 emigrated to Kansas and bought the relinquishment of the Benjamin Billingsly home- stead, the farm where he now lives, which is one of the best in the county. He left Wiscon.sin with nine hundred dollars ; paid six hundred dollars for the clann and tAvo hundred dollars for a team. He now has a half section of land in Meredith and Lyon townships and one hundred and sixty acres of land near El Reno, Oklahoma. His Kansas farm is in a high state of im- provement; an imposing residence of nine rooms; 'in 1898, he built a commo- dious barn. His chief industry has been raising wheat. Mrs. Bourne, before her marriage was Amelia Spencer, of Calumet county, Wisconsin, where she was a teacher for several years. She is a daughter of Richard Spencer, one of the early settlers of Calumet county who came from Ireland to Wisconsin when he was nineteen years of age. and where he died in 1883, at the age of sixty-five years. Her mother was Sarth Thurston, a sister of C. W. Thurston of Delphos. She died Novem- ber 14, 1883 at the age of fifty years. To Mr. and Mrs. Bourne se^'en children haxe been born, all of whom are highly intellectual and educated. Their sons are manly boys of good habits. Leona, is the wife of H. E. Conway, a farmer and nurseryman of El Reno county, Oklahoma. They are the parents of two children, Bessie, aged three, and Walter, aged two years. Mrs. Conway was a Cloud county teacher for several years. Harry, interested with his father on the farm, graduated in 1901, from the Manhattan Agricultural College. Bessie, now in her fourth year at the Agricultural College of Manhattan where she is taking a general course. Richard, in his third year at Manhattan, is talented in music and drawing. He is local editor of the Student's Herald, a weekly paper issued for and by the students of the College. Gordon is also a student in his first year at the same institution. Bertie and Essie, aged nine and three years, respectively. The boys work at home during the sum- mer months putting in wheat, etc. and in the autumn return to Manhattan. On the 10th of June, 1879, the Bourne residence was torn down by a cyclone. Mrs. Bourne was alone \vith the cnildren. The roof was taken oft and a wagon load or more of rock from the gable end of the house came crashing down on a bed where three of the children were sleeping. All es- caped with slight bruises, but the house was drenched from the rain and almost every dish Avas broken. This came at a time when their financial circumstances made the loss very seriously felt. In 1893, Mr. Bourne purchased the Frank Wilson stock of goods at Cool. He was there foiir years and during the panic; people could not pay 68o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. their bills and he returned to liis farm considerably crippled financially and has made what he now has practically since returning. He owns and oper- ates with his eldest son, a threshing machine. He is also somewhat of a chicken fancier and his Bufif Plymouth Rocks took first premium at Del- phos and Beioit. Judge Rhodes who awarded the prizes, remarked they would take the premium any where in the state. Mr. Bourne is a Populist in politics; takes an active interest in public affairs and for several years has been a member of the school board of Dis- trict No. 63. At the last election he was supplanted by Mrs. Bourne. He is a member of the order of Odd Fellows and Knights and Ladies of Security of Delphos. HONORABLE SIMEON OLIVER EVERLEY. S. O. Everley is a progressive farmer and one of the most successful horticulturists in the country, producing as many peaches perhaps, as all the township combined. Six miles down the Monongahela river, from the historical city of Morgantown, West Virginia, the seat of the State Univer- A Remarkable Kansas Family. sity, was where Mr. Everley was born in the month of ^Nlay, 1846. His parents were Reason Howard and Leurena (Morris) Everley. His father was of Gennan and Irish, origin and was boi'n near Morgantown, Septem- ber T.^, 1810. His mother was of Pennsyh-ania birth. Her parents were early pioneers of that state, blazed a road, and the lines of their land. They HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 68 1 were married in 1835. The mother died in 1882, after which the father came to Cloud county to hve with his sons, and died March 9, 1887. Reason Howard Everley was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church for fully half a century and a class leader for thirty years. His house was the tem- porary abode of the clergymen. All that is mortal of this good man lies buried in the quiet little cemetery within the shadow of Bethel church, Mere- dith township. Mr. and Mrs. Reason Everley were the parents of eleven children, eight of whom are living, R. C. Everley, a very excellent man, died in Cloud county, January 15, 1888, at the age of fort3'--four years, leaving a wife and seven children. He emigrated from Illinois to Cloud county in 1872. He was a pillar of the Bethel .church, superintendent of the Sunday school, a promi- nent citizen and a man in the truest sense. He was greatly missed in church work. He died ten months after his father. S. O. is the next oldest child. The third son, I. A., is a farmer of Pennsylvania. Alonzo, who was a success- ful teacher for eighteen years is now engaged in farming and stock raising in Meredith township. Malinda, the eldest of the family, is the widow of Raleigh Waters, who died near Junction City. She and her family are now residents of Colorado. Huldah, the deceased wife 'of Henry Hilde- brand; died leaving four children. Eliza Jane is the deceased wife of the late H. C. Baker, a hardware merchant and ex-sheriff of Monongalia county, West Virginia. By their demise five children were made orphans. A. G., is a wealthy farmer and has lived in Illinois for more than thirty years. He has owned a half section of land near Salina for twenty years. Simon Elliott, is also an Illinois farmer. Mary E., is the wife of Benjamin Conn, a farmer near Point Marion, Pennsylvania, in the vicinity of Mason and Dixon's line. Marion Evans is a farmer near Delphos, has a finely culti- vated tenor voice and is leader of Bethel choir. His wife was Rosa Lee Johns, a daughter of Frank and Matilda Johns, a prominent Pennsyhania family. Mr. Everley's paternal grandfather was a slaveholder, but to those who desired freedom it was granted at tlie age of twenty-one years. One day he gave an old slave a new suit of clothes and his independence. The old darkey was delighted at his owner's generosity but after wandering around for a few days lie returned glad to forego the franchise granted and spent the remainder of his days in the household of his former master. The grandfather was a planter, distiller and horticulturist. Mr. Everley's father inherited the still house and operated it in his earlier life. At that time he was a Whig and later a Republican and anti-slavery man. He lived on a public highway and kept an inn. Often the fugitive slaves would make their flight under the cover of daj^kness, traveling all night pursued by their OAvners and many times his father has sent teams to carry them safely over Mason and Dixon's line. Our subject well remembers accom- panying them on some of these hasty departures. His father had inde- pendent vieAvs and the courage to assert them. L^^pon one occasion he was 682 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. making a speech and the "Golden Circle" crew brought a rope and laid it at his feet, threatening that if he finished his speech they would hang him. He defied them and went on with his talk. He was one of t\\o men in his township (Grant) that voted for Abraham Lincoln. S. O. Everley received a substantial education. He was a classmate of and received honors over, I. P. Dolliver, of Iowa, the noted orator and prospective candidate during the McKinley campaign. Two years were spent in the Morgantown State University but he was prevented by illness from finishing the course. He began his career as a school teacher, but later dug the "dusty diamonds" in the coal fields of Pennsylvania and in 1874 came to Cloud county where a brother had preceded him, and took up a homestead, his present farm. Their means were limited and t!iey lived in a sod house from December until June on a timber claim adjoining. Prior to building a dugout on their own land they lived six weeks under a shelter afforded by a dozen boards. They existed six years in their dugout but it was one of the most comfortable dwellings of its kind in the community, with a board floor and roof. In this humble abode divine services were held. Their first team were oxen, and in the absence of a wagon they used an old sled summer and winter. In this vehicle, with a trunk converted into a seat, they visited their neighbors and attended church. Sometimes the oxen would take a sudden start and over backward its occu- pants would go. Mr. and Mrs Everley were married on Christmas day, 1872, on her father's fann in Monongalia county, West Virginia. They were partici- pants in a double wedding, a brother being married the same day. Her father was Thomas Abraham Haldeman, for fifteen years a carriage maker of Uniontown, Pennsylvania. He served as justice of the peace there for seven years. Mrs. Everley was born on "Pleasant Dale Farm," March. 4, 1854. She was the fourth child and the first girl to brighten her parents' home. Her father was an ordained deacon in the Methodist Episcopal church of Morgantown and held th.-it ofiice twenty-five years. Prior to that period he was a member of the Presbyterian church. He was bom February 28, 1825, and died at the old home May 2, 1902, in his seventy-seventh year, and was laid to rest four days later. He was of German origin and one of eleven children. His mother was Siloam Shirer. Her father was a self-tducated man. His parents Axere poor but he acc[uired a good education under many difficulties. Mrs. Everley's mother was Maria Louisa Baldwin, born in ^'^irginia, November 15, 1829; her father was in the war of 1812. She was a descendant of "Morgan the Indian fighter," who was her great- grandfather. In their family was the brave frontiersman's saddle, covered with Indian skins. A murderous band of savages had committed a number of dastardly deeds and was awaiting Morgan and his company, to deal death to them and their families, but the whites escaped and captured the savages instead, and, perhaps as an example to other marauding bands. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 683 skinned them, tanned their hides, and converted the leather into various things, among which was the saddle. Mrs. Everley is one of a family of six children, five living and nearly all of an inventive turn of mind. Edward Allen Haldeman, a farmer of Meredith township, was born October 2, 1848 and is a mechanic by trade. Benjamin Franklin, born June 12, 1850, is a machinist in Pittsburg, Penn- sylvania, and is said to be the most proficient in the three cities of Pitts- burg, Allegheny and Birmingham. Among several inventions he has pat- ented a brake car coupler. Josiah VanKirk, born June 17, 1852, was an Ohio farmer and died March 22, 1879. Laura Jane, bom December 25, 1857, is the wife of Wallace Blackburn, of Chicago, Illinois. Ella May, born .\iignst 23, 1869, is the wife of Grant Jacobs. Mr. and Mrs. Everley have a remarkable family. There is an even dozen, six sons and six daughters and there has never been a death in the family. The eldest child is Zora Louise, wife of George Casselnian (see sketch). Lila Liez is the wife of C. F. Willers, a farmer and fruit grower and owner of "Cottage Grove Farm" in Lyon township. They are the par- ents of one little son, Cecil Clayton. Mary Olive is a stenographer in the office of Abbey & Ellison, abstract lawyers and mineral water dealers of Abilene, Kansas. She first graduated in the common branches and then taught three terms of school in Cloud county and one year in West Vir- ginia. She graduated from the Allen Commercial College of Abilene and made a record as a strident. She is also possessed of some literary talent. Albert Franklin Golden is the first son. He graduated in the common branches, attended the Manhattan Agricultural College in the winter of 1901-2 and has entered upon the avocation of teaching in the public schools. Oliver Vinima and Howard Haldeman both finished the common school studies and assist with the work on the farm. The younger children are Laura May, Victor Coil, Loyal Leslie, Marion Lee, Opal Floy and Merl Gladys. Mr. Everley is an Abraham Lincoln Republican, but after the Populist party was organized, he affiliated with them in its conception. His political career proper began with the organization ef the Alliance party. He served several terms as chairman of the Alliance central committee. \\\ 1890, he was elected j^epresentative for the sixty-second district, serving two terms. The first year Mr. Frey of Milton\'ale, was his opponent; the second year, Ed Hostetler, then of Jamestown, was his competitor, but was defeated by a majority of from three to four hundred. Mr. Everley was author of the fee and salary bills reducing county expenses. He has been justice of the peace of his district for eight years. While a resident of West Virginia, he was a member of a military company. Mr. Everley is an active and un- selfish worker for every worthy movement, and as a useful man in the community, enjoys and merits the highest esteem of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Mr. Everley's farm consists of three hundred and twenty acres of 684 HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. land. His extensive peach orchard numbers four or five thousand trees. He also has a large plum orchard and many other varieties of fruit. The family are earnest workers in the Methodist Episcopal church and Bethel owns much of its success to the Everley families. ]\'Irs. Everley is a bright, intelligait woman and possesses in a high degree the maternal elements that influaice her children to become useful men and women. She is a woman of considerable literary talent. The touching poem which follows was written by her and dedicated to "The Mothers of Cloud County" whose sons nobly responded to the call for vol- unteers during the late Spanish-American war. "As we listen for the tidings From the islands far away, We often think and ponder Of the boys so blithe and gay Who lightened all our burdens. Who multiplied our joys, And we pray that God will bless them. The Cloud county toys. Flow our mother hearts ached. That warm, spring-like day. As with kisses they left us So eager for the fray. And as they left the town. With all its din and noise. We prayed that God would keep them. The Cloud county boys. We think of them at morning. As their father plods along. How willingly they worked And how cheery was their song! But when the day is en.ded. With its sorrows and its joys, We pray that God Avill guard them — The Cloud county boys. We know they will be brave. And to their country true, As they fight for the flag Of the red, white and blue; But when the battle rages, And the result is on the poise, We will pray "Our Father spare them. The Cloud county boys." HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 685 And when the war is over, And our victory complete; When our hearts beat time To the coming of their feet ; As they rehearse deeds of valor Worthy of great applause, Then will rejoice the mothers Of the Cloud county boys. GEORGE C. CASSELMAN. One of the most hospitable, and one of the most pleasant homes in the truest sense of the word, is the Casselman home in Lyon township, which has been acquired by the personal exertions and efforts of George C. Cassel- man, and is presided over by his accomplished wife who is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. O. Everley (see sketch). Mr. Casselman is a native of Jones county, Iowa, born on a farm in 1870. In 1878 he came with his parents, Levi and Mary (Parker) Cassel- man-, to the state of Kansas. His father was born in eastern Canada but a iew years later came with his parents to the state of New York and set- tled near Tuscarora. After reaching manhood he made several changes, and finally drifted into Iowa, where he enlisted in Company C, First Iowa Cavalry, serving in the same regiment until July, 1865. They were with the troops of General Sheridan and General Custer through their career in Texas. After the war he returned to Iowa where he I'emained until coming to Kan- sas in 1878. Mr. Casselman's paternal grandfather was a soldier of the Canadian rebellion of 1837, serving in the Canadian British ranks. He emigrated to Wisconsin in an early day and died there at the age of ninety-five years. The Casselmans, four generations removed, came from Germany and are a long-lived people, several of them having almost reached the century mark. Mr. Casselman's mother, Mary (Parker) Casselman, was of Scotch origin, born in the city of Montreal, Canada. Her parents emigrated from Scot- land to Canada and thence to Wisconsin. She was twice married. Her first iiusband was John W. Cook, who was killed near Atlanta while serving under the United States flag. He was a sergeant and with a force of men was throwing up an embankment, when he was hit by a spent ball and died of the wound in 1864. By this marriage there were four children, three of whom are living, viz : Maggie, wife of William Sanford of Amber, Iowa ; Rosa, wife of Marion Bellows, a farmer near Oldham, Iowa, and Sewell, a resident of Newton, Kansas. VVhen Mr. Casselman's father came to Kansas he bought three hun- dred and twenty acres of tmimproved land of C. C. King. Pie built a house, dug a well, fenced the land and otherwise improved the place. In the winter of 1895 his residence burned and soon afterwards he sold two hundred and 686 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY. KANSAS. twenty acres of the farm to his son, George C, the subject of this sketch, who at once began the erection of a commodious, two-story, nine-room mod- ern, stone residence, which stands on an eminence of ground overlooking the country for many miles. It is one of the most substantial buildings in that vicinity, ^^'hile this was in course of construction Mr. Casselman with his bride lived in a dugout. Mr. Casselman was married October 7, 1894, to Miss Zora Ever ley. They are the happy parents of two little sons, Floyd W., born in February, 1896, and Melvin H., born in July, 1898. Mr. Casselman is one of three sons; Alexander, a farmer with residence near Medford, Oklahoma, and John W., a telegraph operator of Sioux City, Nebaska. Mr. Casselman has just received a thoroughbred Shorthorn bull, and is building up a herd of Shorthorn and Hereford cattle. Stock raising and wheat growing are his principal industries. Mr. Casselman is a staimch Republican. The Casselmans are members and ardent workers of the Bethel church society; he has been superintendent of the Sunday school for two years and is secretary of the board of trustees. He is a member of the Woodman order of Glasco lodge. Mr. Casselman is a leader in all public enterprises of his neighborhood amd is recognized as a man of integrity. BETHEL METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The pretty little church known as Bethel, situated in one of the most pleasant and enterprising neighborhoods of Cloud county, was built by popu- lar subscription and donation. The ground was deeded by Cyrus and Eliza- beth Courtney, July 19, 1880, but the society had been organized by several of the leading citizens and their families as early as 1875. R. C. Everley, Cyrus Courtney, F. A. Courtney, W. C. Scott and a Mr. Ostrander associated themselves together and organized a union Sabbath school at the old stone school house, which was built in the early seventies. Services were held, however, before the school house was built, in Coil C. Everley's dugout, located on ^^'hat is now the farm of Ray King. The Sabbath school later was under the supervision of the Methodist society. "Grandma" Allen, "Grandma" Cady, Mr. and Mrs. Barr and Cyrus Courtney, respectively, were teachers of the woman's Bible class. Much interest was taken and a large attendance resulted. They had no lesson helps ; everybody went whether they were members or not, and many were con- verted in this way. Reverend Stackhouse was the first pastor, followed by Reverend Reams and during the ministry of the latter the church was built and dedicated. The present Elder, Reverend Dearborn, had charge of the dedication serv- ices. The church is a stone structue, 36 by 48 feet, with a seating capacity of about two hundred. Aisles and pulpit are carpeted. They have a church HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 687 organ and excellait song sen'ices under the leadership of Marion Everley, who lias occupied the place for many years. This is the best known church outside of the cities in Cloud county. Its members dwell in unison and have exerted much influence for good over the community, and the result is evidenced in the school work. More teachers, more business and professional men have gone out from this district than any in the county. Of the fifteen teachers, several of them rank with the best. Among these are J. A. Everley, M. Bushong, and the late Frank Reppert, the latter being very successful. His memory is held sacred by the community of Bethel. He died in 1900 and some of his work remained on the black board of the school house for more than a year. In 1897, the church was papered, screened and many other improvements made. E. E. AND LEE LONG. The Long Brothers Milling Company is composed of E. E. and Lee Long, who operate an extensive mill near the Cloud county line, situated on the old town site of Brittsville, which was named for its founder, Judge Britt, on whose land the town was located. Brittsville was once a flour- ishing town and trading post, but the line of railroad missed the little ham- let about one and one-half miles to the westward and the town of Simpson, Mitchell county consequently sprung into existence. The old mill was erected in 1897, by Simpson, Shank & Long, and was operated by them until 1885, when Henry Long, father of the Long brothers, became sole proprie- tor and manager. By the death of their father in 1900, Lee and E. E. Long became own- ers and partners in this paying enterprise. The present mill was erected in 1899, at a cost of about eleven thousand dollars. It is an imposing, three story frame structure, standing on the banks of the Solomon and embow- ered in the groves of that rich valley. The mill site is one an artist might revel in. The placid flow of the river, unbroken in its course, produces a dreamy and restful sensation until with a joyous bound it leaps merrily over the dam. The stately trees give a cool and welcome shade from the sultry suns of a summer day. "Summer or winter, day or night. The woods are ever a new delight. They give us peace and they make us strong — ■ Such wonderful balms to thein belong. So living or dying I'll take mine ease Under the trees, under the trees." The mill has a capacity of one hundred barrels of flour daily and con- tains all the modern improvements and appliances to lighten labor and do perfect work. This is the only mill in the Solomon valley at the present 41 68S HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. writing (October, 1901) that has the fuU sifter system. The leading brand of flour made at this miU is "The Echpse," and a finer quahty was never made into toothsome, wholesome bread, biscuits and cakes, the pride of the housekeeper who need never worry over the result of her baking and brew. Much of their product is sold to exporters. This is one of the best water pov;ers on the Solomon river, with an absolutely tight dam. Their capac- LoNG Brothers' Mills and One of the Finest Water Powers on the Solomon River. ity for grain is sixty tons and they have the only plant in the county where corn is received in the ear and reduced from this state to fine meal. J. S. Brown, a man of extended experience, is the miller. Mr. Brown has spent many of the days and nights of his fifty-two years perfecting himself in the knowledge and details of his profession and his thirty years of successful management in this occupation attest his having accomplished what he in- tended. He has been in their employ more than two years. The Longs own and operate a magnificent farm of four hundred acres, and in connection with their agricultural and milling pursuits they feed great droves of cattle and hogs during corn years. They also raise wheat exten- sively and have had some fine returns in this industry. These enterpris- ing men have an irrigating plant that furnishes 20,000 gallons of water per hour, propelled by a water wheel and distributed through pipes to various parts of the estate. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 689 Their father, the late Henry Long, was a native of North Carolina and when a young man emigrated to Missouri, thence to California, in 1849 — the gold seeker's year, and subsequently, via the Isthmus of Panama to South America, later returning to Missouri, where he married Sallie Long, who survives him and lives in the home of her sons. This worthy couple became the parents of eleven children, five of whom are living and are all residents of Cloud county. The daughters are. Myrtle, on her first year in the Man- hattan Agricultural College; Rena, graduated from the Emporia State Nor- mal and entered upon a career of teaching school, but on account of ill health was compelled to abandon that vocation ; Retta, the youngest daughter is the wife of Ira Foote. The brothers, Lee and E. E. Long, came with their parents from Mis- souri to Kansas before they had reached the years of maturity, were reared on the farm their father bought of Judge Britt, in 1881, received a common school education and began their career as employees in the mill they now own, then operated by Simpson, Shank & Long. E. E. Long was married in 1899, to Miss Anna Conner, an accomplished and gracious woman, a daughter of Patrick Conner, an old settler of Ottawa county, Kansas. The Longs have made for themselves a competency that brings to them all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life; among them is a com- modious and pleasant home situated opposite the mill site. The brothers differ in politics; E. E. is a Jeffersonian Democrat, while Lee is an ardent Republican. The mother lives with her sons and watches the growth of their business enterprises with true motherly ambition and pride. These pros- perous young men are held in high public favor and esteem, having earned a well deserved success in their undertakings. "Upward and onward" is their motto. They are citizens of whom any community may justly be proud in all the bearings of business and social life. ARTHUR SELLECK. Like many of the pioneers of Cloud county, Arthur Selleck, the sub- ject of this sketch, is reaping in peace and comfort that which was sown in hardship, bloodshed and misfortune. Many of the old settlers will remem- ber the brutal murder of his father, James Selleck, one of the most highly respected citizens of Solomon township in the spring time of 1871, which caused great excitement and indignation throughout the county at the time. One Elmer Maxom was the guilty culprit, but this inhuman monster escaped punishment. James Selleck bought the relinquishment of his home- stead from one Castile, who was the step-father of Elmer Maxom. With these two men Mr. Selleck had been hunting, and presumably they discov- ered that he had money on his person. The Sellecks retired for the night when young Maxom, who was only twenty-two years of age, asked to be admitted and given a night's lodging. He was a neighbor and, supposing him to be a friend, the request was cheerfully granted and he was told to 690 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. occupy the bed with Arthur, then a mere lad of nineteen years. About midnight, with the gun that hung on the wall over his bed, the murderer began shooting, Mr. Selleck receiving the bullet in the head over the right eye. Only one shot was fired and fearing his aim had not been a deadly one the fiend attacked his \'ictim with an ax. Arthur reached for his gun to go to his father's assistance but found the murderer had preceded him and se- cured the gun. It was discovered that others had been outside to assist in case he was not equal to the heinous crime, for a hatchet which had been stolen from H. H. Spaulding was found outside the door. In various ways they had tried to make it appear that the culprits were Indians, having on numerous occasions related stories of the red skins' murderous attacks on the settlers thereby keeping the Sellecks in abject fear of a raid being made upon them. The robbers had been lying in wait for Mr. Selleck for some time and schemed various plans for the robbery. Maxom was caught and taken to Concordia and after a preliminary trial was placed in the jail at Salina, where, through accomplices, he made his escape and was never captured. Mr. Selleck lingered sixteen days and died May 8, 1871, at the age of forty-nine years. James Selleck was a native of Ashtabula county, Ohio, and came to Illinois in 1850, locating in La Salle county. He had followed various voca- tions, was a carpenter, retail salesman, dairyman, etc. He was married to Eliza Strawn in 1854. Her paternal grandfather came from Germany and settled in Sandusky, Ohio, moving to Illinois when Mrs. Selleck was about three years old. Mrs. Selleck survives her husband and lives with her son Walter on the old homestead in Solomon township where they settled in 1869. Prior to settling in Kansas the Sellecks lived several years in Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. James Selleck three children were born, Arthur (the sub- ject of this sketch) and Walter, twins, and Louise Kate, deceased, wife of W. H. White, who died in 1885, leaving Nellie, an infant nine months old, now living with her grandmother. Arthur Selleck and his twin brother, Walter, were born on a farm in Harrison county, Iowa, June 30, 1857. The father being killed when the brothers were boys, they early occupied places at the head of the household, giving all the assistance possible to the wife and mother who was rendered well-nigh helpless and has never in fact recovered from the shock of her husband's untimely death; thus their early education was limited. Mr. Selleck lives on the old home place, his mother deeding him her share. He bought out the other heirs about twenty years ago. He also owns eighty acres of land cornering with the old homestead, just over the line in Mitchell county, and one hundred and sixty acres in Ottawa covmty. The home farm is among the finest in this region, and Mr. Selleck is one of the most practical and successful farmers and stock raisers in his neighbor- hood. He keeps a herd of about fifty head of finely bred Shorthorn cattle; raises hogs extensively and has made money more easily and rapidly in the ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^■wl^^Bi^^^HH^HEri nHvi' ■! «■ iHr^^^^^Bfl ft^' ^^^H^^^^^^^^^^^^MHi^j^^^KmQ^^^^H^H^^^^^^^^H 1 The Attractive Country Home of John M. Vernon. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 693 latter than in any other industry. He has fed hogs that netted him $1 per bushel for wheat that yielded thirty bushels to the acre. Mr. Selleck did the most sensible thing of his life when, on April 9, 1882, he married Julia Murphy, who is a refined, estimable and gentle woman. She is a daughter of James Murphy, who has been a farmer and resident of Cloud county since j88o. For the past five years he has made his home with his daughter. Mrs. Selleck is one of five children, all of whom are deceased but herself and one sister, Mrs. W. H. White, who lives on a farm near Beloit. A sister, Mrs. Dora Pendas, who had been failing in health for five years visited Mrs. Selleck with the hope of recovering, but she became hopelessly ill; another sister, Mrs. Rosa Schram, of Denver, was sent for, and arriving on the first Sunday in June was stricken with a sudden illness, dying four weeks later. The sister from Florida died October 12, 1892. A son and two daughters were deceased within the space of a few weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Selleck have three interesting children, viz : Eva, nine- teen years of age, is learning photography in Minneapolis, Kansas ; Dora aged nine and Marie aged seven. Politically Mr. Selleck is a Populist. He is a member of the Sons and Daughters of Justice, Simpson Lodge, No. 131, Knights and Ladies of Security, Asherville Lodge No. 361. The Selleck home is a pleasant one, a comfortable five-room cottage, standing on an eminence of ground which affords a magnificent view of the fertile lands and cultivated fields of the Solomon valley. The hospitality one receives from these kind-hearted people creates a desire to visit them again. One accessory to this farm seldom or never found in Cloud county is a natural reservoir of clear water fed by a large spring within a few yards of the door. The government stocked this water with carp, but not finding them desirable Mr. Selleck had them exchanged for cat fish which are rapidly growing and doing well. JOHN AI. VERNON. Among the most prominent farmers and stockmen of Cloud county is J. M. Vernon, the subject of this sketch. A charming sense of rest pervades the atmosphere of the Vernon home, where the comforts of the family, unlike many, are regarded of greater importance than the care of stock, and in accordance he has built one of the best residences in the county. In architecture this house would grace a city avenue; in its appointments it as well furnished as many a fashionable home, and illustrates forcibly that culture, refinement and accomplishments need not be foreign to the sons and daughters of the farm. No higher tribute can be paid Mr. and Mrs. Vernon than a recognition of the fine instinct which distinguish their family. Though reared in the school of industry, their education and accomplishments have not been neglected and they are talented musicians. Mr. Vernon is a native of Pennsylvania, born near the city of Brown- 694 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ville, on a farm in 1842. The Vernons were an old Dutch family, dating back to the early settlement of the state. He is a son of Joel Vernon, who was born and died in the historical county of Fayette, where the body of General Braddock lies buried. Joel Vernon died in 1867. Mrs. Vernon was Eliza Connell, of Virginian birth and Scotch origin. Her maternal ancestors were an old P'ennsylvania faniily and descendants of the family are still there on the homesteads they "tomahawked." She came to Kansas with her son where she died at the age of ninety-one years in 1893. Mr. Vernon is one of six children, five of whom are living, viz: W^illiam, a farmer of Mitchell county ; George, a miller of Comanche, Texas ; Rebecca, wife of J. C. Momyer, a retn-ed minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian church, their residence is Petersburg, Illinois; Maggie E., widow of J. C. Ulery, of Pueblo, Colorado. Mr. Vernon was educated in the common schools of his county and attended college for one year at Waynesburg, Pennsylvania. At the age of twenty years he entered upon a career for himself. In 1872, came west and took the homestead where he no\v li^-es and soon afterwards bought forty acres of the Teasley homestead. He now owns one thousand five hundred acres of land; three hundred and sixty in Wallace county, seven hundred and twenty in Mitchell county and four hundred and twenty in Cloud county. At the present writing has seven hundred and twenty acres of wheat on his land. In 1894, he had two hundred acres of wheat which yielded thirty-one bushels per acre. Mr. Vernon was the promoter of alfalfa growing in his neighborhood now one of the best paying industries in Kansas. In 1897 he bought thirteen bushels of seed which sowed thirty-three acres of ground as a trial ventur^. The third year sold one hundred and sixty bushels of seed from the second crop which netted him $1,025. This was the introduction of alfalfa as a pa3'ing proposition. Mr. Vernon and J. L. Hostetler were the first to bring sheep into the Solomon valley. As a beginning they started with sixty head each in 1873. Their herds increased to more than one thousand head and wool growing became one of the foremost industries of that valley. Mr. Vernon was one of the instigators of the organization known as the Solomon Valley Wool Growing Association, (an account of which, is given elsewhere in this volume), and was its first secretary. He shipped the first fine stock into the county and got his best start in Kansas in the sheep raising business. Mr. Vernon was married in 1874, to Sarah Darrow, who was born in the state of New York, and came to Kansas with her parents in 1870, and settled in Mitchell county where her father took up a homestead one mile from the Cloud county line. Mrs. Darrow died in 1887, and Mr. Darrow one year later. Mrs. Vernon is one of ten children, seven girls and three boys, seven of whom are living; two sisters in California, the others all in the vicinity of Cloud and Mitchell counties. Mr. Vernon's family consists '^of a wife and seven children : Edgar, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 695 a farmer, living two and one-half miles of the old homestead, married Pearl Simpson, whose father the town of Simpson was named for. They are the parents of one child, a little daughter, Mabel. Annie, the eldest daughter is a talented musician on the piano and violin, has taken a course at Lindsborg college and expects to return and complete her studies. George, associated with his father on the farm; Lizzie and Clara, also talented in music; John, a boy of thirteen, and Albert aged eleven. Jesse, who had been an invalid for a period of six years was deceased July 27, 1901, at the age of nineteen years. Mr. Vernon has one of the best improved homesteads in the country; built a commodious house of eleven rooms in 188S, and built the first large barn in the Solomon valley. GEORGE \V. TEASLEY. George W. Teasley, a stockman and farmer of Summit township, is the subject of this sketch. Mr. Teasley is a native of Georgia, born in Murray county, December 5, 1847. He is a son of James S. and Susan W. (Reed) Teasley. His parents were both natives of Elbert county, Georgia. His fa- ther was born November 15, 1801 ; his mother September 8, 1805. The Teasleys were of English origin, — our subject's grandfather being the emigrant. The Reeds were of Scotch origin. James S. Teasley died April 12, 1863. In 1884 George ^V. Teasley visited Georgia and re- turning brought iiis mother to live in his home where she died March 5, 1892. Mr. Teasley received a limited education in his youth for when he should have been in school the civil war was at its height, and what he gained was for the greater part ac- quired at home, but the roaring of shot and shell from cannon and musketry, detracted the scholars' attention, and not knowing what moment they might be "picked off" by some daring sharpshooter, was not conducive to study. March 22^, 1866', Mr. Teasley left his southern home, traveled by rail to Nashville, Tennessee, thence by steamboat to Kansas City, consuming about five days enroute from St. Louis to Wyandotte, now Kansas City, Kansas, where they boarded the Union Pacific train for Topeka, the termi- nus of the railroad at that date. Mr. Teasley, with his brother and family who accompanied him, procured an outfit, and via the "prairie schooner" line turned their faces toward the Solomon valley. JK. C. Bagwell, one of George W. Teasley. 696 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. their neighbors in the South, had traveled over the beautiful valley during his army life, and when he returned to Georgia reported its great possi- bilities to Allan Teasley and a Mr. Hayes. After listening to his descrip- tion of its grandeur they concluded it was an opportunity to gain lands— the "opportunity that knocks but once at every man's door," and they hastened to avail themselves of the occasion. A sale was cried and without delay preparations were facilitated to start them on their journey to the chosen spot of the vast wilderness, where they must combat with frontier discomforts, prowling savages, and hungry coyotes. When they reached the terminus of the railroad their real' experience began, but with that tenacity, energy and courage that marked the emigrant to the frontier, they pressed on, never losing the point of compass that directed them to the fertile valley of the Solomon. On the fifteenth of April, 1866, they located the land south of Glasco, now owned by Charles Horn, whc-e they proceeded to dig a trench over which were stretched wagon bows covered with canvas. In this improvised abode eleven people existed until a more commodious house could be built. Mr. Teasley and his brother at once began operations for farming and broke twenty-five or thirty acres of sod in which they planted com, pumpkins and melons. One peaceful, quiet Sabbath morning our subject took his gun and sauntered forth to the melon patch — as the Southerners' attachment for the luscious, watery fruit almost rivals that of the sable children of that clime. Whatever the day or conditions the pioneer settler usually carried his gun. As Mr. Teasley surveyed the long stretch of country there was not an obstruction or object for miles to break the view — but going a few paces further in the direction of the river he turned and suddenly comfronted two Indians, whereupon they began patting their breasts and exclaiming, "Good Injuns," "Good Injuns." Mr. Teasley was appalled, and raised his rifle to shoot, but upon their repeated protestations of being "Good Injuns," lowered his gun and as if to demonstrate his friendship and good feeling offered his unwelcomed guests some melons. But the gorgeous yellow coated pumpkins were more palatable to the depraved tastes of the savages, who ate eagerly of the golden fruit. After this repast the warriors exhibited their prowess and skill in archery. They belonged to a friendly tribe of Pawnees, which numbered from one hundred and fifty to two hundred, who were traveling through the country, and these two braves were simply foraging for something to eat. During the autumn of 1866, the Union Pacific railroad was extended ".vestward from Topeka, and after having garnered his crops Mr. Teasley v.-orked on the railroad. Had there been more ground broken they would have raised enormous crops, for the yield of corn was heavy that year, but failures ensued in 1867-8. But the fruitful Solomon valley was visited by the raid in 1868, and their home on the frontier shadowed by dangers from Indian warfare. Mr. Teasley rode o\'er to Asher creek to investigate the Tumors, and in the meaMtime the Indians came into the settlement on Fisher HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 697 creek, and with a field glass were seen skulking all over the prairies. The depredations were confirmed and our subject, along with his brother Allan Teasley and family, went to Franklin and Miami counties where they rail- roaded several months and made good wages. They employed men and sub-contracted work. They returned to Cloud county in 1872, where Allan Teasley died (see sketch of George Washington Teasley) and where G. W. continues to live on the old homestead. Mr. Teasley was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth E. Jackson, of Osawattomie, Kansas, September 10, 1872. Orangeville, Orange county, Indiana, was the birthplace of Mrs. Teasley. Her father was William Elias Jackson, a farmer and carpenter. The family removed to Missouri in 1867, and the following spring to Osawattomie. Mr. Jackson lived in the home of Mrs. Teasley for eight years prior to his death, December 24, 789 1. Her mother was deceased one year later. Mr. and Mrs. Teasley are the parents of four children, namely : Ida May, wife of Amos Musser, a farmer of Summit township; they are the parents of four children, Luella, Stanley, Forest and Tamworth. Susan Alena, wife of Frank Clark, of Concordia; three children brighten their home, Ruth, Dorothy and Bernice. Gerty, is the wife of Frank Mooney, a farmer of Solomon township. James was deceased at the age of eighteen months. Pearl, the youngest daughter, is the wife of David Beesley, a farmer, of Summit township. In politics Mr. Teasley is a Populist and was elected by that party to the office of County Commissioner, and has just retired from serving his second term. His career as an official was marked for its justness, never swerving from his ideas of duty and honor, oftentimes bringing censure because no favors were shown. He was trustee of Summit township during the year 1894. Socially Mr. Teasley is identified with the Glasco lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, and the Fraternal Aid. The family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Teasley owns a fine farm and raises wheat and corn. He keeps a herd of fifty native cattle and a few Jerseys, Mr. Teasley and his estimable family are among the best citizens of the Solomon valley and have contributed to the promotion of every worthy cause. HALK WAY, LYON TOWNSHIP. The old buildings long since deserted, stand as an old landmark of what was once known as Half Way. The store and postoffice were the elements composing this place, the name of which is significant of being about midway between Beloit and Concordia, on the summit of the divide between the Re- publican and Solomon river valleys. In an early day it was thought best to establish a mail route with Con- cordia as distributing office. On May 16, 1872, Cransdale was located and Samuel Hannum was appointed postmaster by Judge A. J. Croswell, post- 698 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. t master-general, which he held until 1877, when the office was moved to the residence of John C. Orput, who lived half way between Concordia and Beloit, and given the name of Half Way. Mr. Orput was appointed by D. M. Key, postmaster-general. In April, 1878, he resigned, and John S. Abbey was appointed and the office moved to his residence, where it remained until the present year (1901), when a rural delivery was established and the postoffice abolished. G. L. SAMS. The subject of this sketch, G. L. Sams is one of the most progressive farmers of tlie Solomon valley. While his land does not consist of extensive acres every available part of it is under a high state of cultivation, and there is a charming sense of rest suggested by this pVetty country home with its vine covered cottage, well kept lawn, stately windmill and other out build- ing| all freshly and brightly painted ; the house a model of neatness and good taste that bespeaks the refinement and culture of its occupants. Mr. Sams is a native of Missouri, born in Shelby county, in 1842 and reared in Marion county. He is a son of Joseph and Nancy (Yater ) Sams. Mr. Sams' great-grandfather, with three brothers emi- grated from England to America and upon arriving in the new world they took diverging paths and their identity was lost to each other. The branch our subject sprang from settled in North Carolina and from that state to Missouri in 181 5, when his father was but four years old and in the very earliest settlement of that state. Mr. Sams' father was a farmer and lived in Marion county until his death in April, 1889. His maternal an- cestry were of German origin and settled in Kentucky. His grandfather moved from that state to Indiana, where his mother was born and from Indiana to Missouri in 1832. .She died in 1881. Mr. Sams grew to manhood in Marion county and received his educa- tion in a log school house. He has been a farmer the greater part of his life, rented his farm in 1882 and engaged in the harness business three years, but returned to the homestead. In July of 1901, he became; associated with Thomas Shanks in general merchandise in Simpson, Mitch- ell county, just over the line from Cloud. Their capital stock is two thous- and dollars. They are doing a successful business on a cash basis. Mr. Sams was married in 1871, to Miss Amanda Day, of Marion county, Missouri, and immediately started for Kansas. She is a daughter of Thomas and Hannah (Corder) Day, and was born in 1845. Her father was a farmer and carpenter. The Days were of southern origin and came from Kentucky to Virginia, and thence to Missouri, where hef father died before the war. Her mother died July 5, 1871. To Mr. and Mrs. Sams two sons have been born. Joseph Clyde who has just attained his majority is associated with his father on the farm and gives evidence of becoming like him a practical farmer. Earl, aged seventeen, graduated HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 699 in the common school at Simpson and was a student of the Beloit commer- cial college one year. He is manager of the general rnerchandise store of Shanks & Sams, at Simpson. These sons are both intelligent and popular young men. Mr. Sams lives on the homestead he secured in 1871. Thejr first place of abode was the primitive dugout and two years later a cellar was dug and walled up with rock with floor and roof of dirt, where they lived several years. Mr. Sams was at one time engaged in sheep raising quite extensively and made it a success. He started on fifty head of ewes to be raised on the share. This was in 1875, and he continued in the sheep raising industry for about a dozen years. He sent three hundred head west which netted him $1,000. He has a herd of forty finely graded Shorthorn cattle and has been a successful hog raiser, although in 1895 he lost about forty head from cholera. Mr. Sams is a Democrat and takes an intelligent interest in political affairs. He has been an efficient member of the school board of district number thirty-nine for twelve years or more. The family are members of the Baptist church at Simpson. Mr. and Mrs. Sams are very worthy and estimable people and retain that hospitality the Missourians are famous for. They are good citizens, people of integrity and highly esteemed. GEORGE W. CHAPMAN. One of the solid, most prosperous and entirely self-made men of Cloud county is G. W. Chapman, of Solomon township, who came to Kansas dur- ing the tide of emigration ih 1870, his father preceding him a few months. He is a son of James and Emma (Harris) Chapman, who, with their family of three children, left their home in old England and came to America in 1867. The Chapmans were from County Kent, near London, and within sight of the Crystal Palace. Mr. Chapman is a farmer and the first two years in this country they lived in INIcHenry county, Illinois, and in 1869 emigrated to Cloud county, and took up a homestead five and one-half miles south- west of Glasco. G. W. Chapman was born in England in 1854, and began his career herding cattle both in winter and summer for a period of about four years. He was married in 1876 and took up a homestead, built a small stone house with a dirt roof, where they lived several years. He now has seven hundred acres of land and a herd of one hundred and seventy fine Hereford bred cattle and one hundred and twenty-five head of hogs ; will have seventy head to ship this year. When Mr. Chapman was married he was practically pen- niless; says "he was like the fellow in the far west who didn't have wearing apparel enough to flag a handcar." Mrs. Chapman was Elizabeth Bennett, of Iowa, who came to Kansas in 1874. The Bennets afterward moved to Oklahoma, where her father, at the age o-f eighty-nine years still lives. Her mother died three years ago. 700 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman have four children, two boys and two girls: Ada, wife of Ed Orbaugh, a farmer and stockman of Solomon township, Frank C. and George F., who assist their father with the stock and on the farm, and Lessie, aged thirteen. Mr. Chapman is a lover of fine stock; cultivated a taste in that direction from boyhood as he drove the cattle over the prairies, building "castles" of how some day he would have herds of his own. For several years the Chap- mans were in verjr limited circumstances financially, and in 1881 he decided to speculate, either make or go clear to the wall. With this resolution he mortgaged his farm and bought some cows of Texas breed. As they increased he graded them until he had some very good stock. He next invested in ten head of high grade registered Herefords, from which he produced one of the finest herds in the county. He has at the head of his herd at present, one of the best sons of "Wild Tom," purchased from the C. S. Cross "Sunny Slope farm,"' near Emporia, Kansas. Before his death (he committed suicide), Mr. Cross refused two thousand five hundred dollars for this animal by parties in Omaha. Mr. Chapman favors the Hereford breeds assuming they are more easily kept, and fatten more quickly — fatten when other breeds continue poor. Mrs. Chapman raises some very fine poultry and has upwards of a dozen handsome peafowls. Mr. Chapman is a member of the I. O. O. F., Glasco Lodge, No. 188. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Chapman's par- ents still reside on the old homestead. Of his father's family, a sister, Mrs. William Merritt, lives in Idaho, his three brothers, Walter J., Frederick and James, are all farmers of Cloud county. Mr. Chapman has a pleasant and comfortable home presided o\-er by Mrs. Chapman who is an amiable and estimable woman. JAMES H. LINDLEY. J. H. Lindley, one of the successful farmers and stockmen of Lyon town- ship, is a native of Wayne coimty, Indiana, born in 1866. He is of honorable birth and highly connected. His patients w^ere Osmond and Achsah (Wilson) Lindley, of North Carolina birth. Both his paternal and maternal ancestors were slave holders, but being of Quaker proclivities they released their slaves, gave them their freedom, emigrated to the north and settled in Indiana. The Lindleys trace their ancestor}' back to "Lindley Hall," a historical and valuable estate in England. James H. Lindley is one of twelve children, nine of whom are living, viz. : Sylvia, is the wife of Barclay Johnson, president of Southland College, a Quaker institution in the state of Arkansas ; Alfred, a retired farmer and stockman of Neog'a, Illinois ; Frank, an attorney and loan broker of Danville, Illinois. He eschews politics and devotes himself to legal practice and finance. Guerney, a farmer of Fairmount, Indiana. John was deceased in 1890, followed by Horace and Charlie within eight months. The former and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 701 latter were both men of families. Horace was correspondent for the St. Joseph Herald. Fletcher is general superintendent of the Marquette Mining and Manufacturing Company, of Chicago, Illinois. Prior to entering their employ he was superintendent of a clothing manufacturin_g company. Erasmus, a young attorney of Chicago, is a graduate of Ann Arbor College and Law School, and a member of the firm of Walker & Payne, attorneys and counsellors, 184 LaSalle street. Maggie, wife of Edward Overman, both she and her husband are teachers in Fairmount, Indiana. Mary, the youngest member of the family, is assistant principal of Earlham College, Richmond, Indiana. Mr. Lindley came to Kansas with his mother, two sisters and a brother, at the age of twelve years ; his father having died when he was ten years old. His educational advantages were limited to a training at home, but being of a studious and inquiring mind, he obtained a store of practical knowledge that is often of more value through life than a college diploma. On their arrival in Kansas they purchased eighty acres of the McCoy homestead, lived in a dugout with dirt roof and floor during the first winter and endured the hardships incident to pioneer life. In 1890, Mr. Lindley bought the farm and his mother returned to Indiana. In 1893 he purchased the other eighty acres of the homestead, where he now lives. His principal industry is wheat and corn, feeding and raising cattle and hogs. Politically he is a Republican, and in 1898, received the nomination from his party for treasurer of Cloud county. His opponent, Edwin Coates, was elected by forty-five majority. Mr. Lindley is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias, of Glasco. He is a self-made man, having been thrown upon his own resources early in life through the death of his father, and worked for three years at a salary of eight dollars per month, during their early residence in Kansas. His farm is ranked among the most desirable in that vicinity. Personally he is held high in public estimation and is one of the solid men of Lyon township. DR. JAMES COLLINS. Dr. Collins has proven himself to be a man especially adapted to his profession. He is a native of North Carolina, born in Jonesville, Yadkin county, a division of Surrey county, in 1836. His father was William Collins, of Scotch and English parentage, who settled in Maryland, and subsequently in North Carolina, where he was born in 1 789. William Collins was a veteran of the war of 1812. He endured many hardships, and at various times was on the verge of starvation. The soldiers of that day did not fare so well as the gallant "boys in blue'" under the present government. He participated in the thickest of the fight in the battle of New Orleans. His company was mustered out at Mobile after two years service. He with seven of his comrades were left there sick and penniless, all suffering more or less from illness. They started on the return trip bound for their respective homes carry- 702 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ms the weaker ones on stretchers. WiUiam Colhns was one of the three who survived and reached their homes. Dr. Cohins has a rehc, a pair of steelyards, in his possession which he vahies highly, not only for their intrinsic worth, but as the only article he re- tains of his father's personal property. They were presented to William Col- lins from the hands of that illustrious soldier and statesman, Andrew Jackson, He gave them to him as a means of defense to slug the darkies with who came up to interfere, and to weigh articles of food — they weiglied everything used in the commissary department. William Collins was a farmer by occupation. He died in 1852, at the age of sixty-three years. His father was a Revolution- ary soldier. His mother lived to be one himdred. and four years old. Dr. Collins mother was born in Stokes county. North Carolina, in 1797, and died in East Tennessee in 1856. Dr. Collins is one of a family of eight children, only two of whom are living, himself and a sister, Sarah — widow of Hezekiah Jackson, who died in the hospital at Atchison, in 1901, leaving a wife and ten children. He was a farmer living in the vicinity of Simpson. A brother. Dr. Lewis Collins, was one of the most noted and successful practitioners in the country — a better practitioner than financier. His death resulted from being thrown from a spirited horse. He was hurled over an embankment and his neck broken. He died in Logan township, Mitchell county, Kansas, in 1883, leaving a wife and five children. Dr. Lewis Collins brought in a herd of fine Shorthorn cattle in 1875, which was one of, if not the first, herd of Shorthorns in the country. Dr. Richard Collins, a dentist, who lived on a farm near Simpson and practiced his profession there and in Glasco, died unmarried in April, 1895, The eldest brother, Anderson Collins, was one of the first settlers to locate a claim on Lost creek. He was a prosperous farmer and stockman. He died in 1880, leaving a wife and large family of children. He had gone to Nebraska City on business, and died while there. Mary K., wife of Jesse L. Knight, died in Beloit in 1895, leaving one son and a daughter; Dr. Knight, the dentist of Glasco, is the son. Dr. James Collins began the study of dentistry early in life, and when they used practice as well as theory. At the age of seventeen years he went to his mother's family in Ray county, Tennessee, where he followed his profession for ten years in Knoxville, Kingston and various other places. From Ten- nessee he went to Somerset, Kentucky, where he practiced two years, in the meantime serving the Twenty-second regiment^which was stationed at Somerset — with dentistry. In 1864, he emigrated to Nebraska and settled on a farm in Nemaha county, where he lived until coming to Kansas. He visited the beautiful Solomon valley while on a buffalo hunting expe- dition, and while looking over the ground with a view to locating, he inquired if his present farm was for sale, and instructed them to notify him if at any time it should become so. Henry Ashley, the original owner, decided to sell and per agreement, notified Dr. Collins, who bought the land through an agent. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 703 There were, practically speaking, no improvements; three acres of breaking and a log cabin, whose low timbers would not admit of an ordinary sized man standing erect. He now owns with his children two hundred and eighty acres of land. In 1881 Dr. Collins bought six Jersey cattle and has raised from them a herd that excels any Jersey stock in the country. He sold seventeen milch cows in one day during the year 1900. He keeps on an average from thirty-five to forty head and has a regular Jersey stock farm. Dr. Collins is still active in his profession, has a portable office and an ex- tended practice. When the law was passed in Kansas requiring the dentists to undergo a thorough examination he, submitted papers which were pronounced as good as any in the state. He holds a first grade diploma, given by the State Dental Board of Examiners of Kansas. Dr. Collins took an active part in the populist movement until their ardor simmered down and left him neutral. He was one of the organizers of school district No. 39, and has been almost continuously a member of the school board. He was married in 1861, to Minerva Nail, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Rankin) Nail. Thomas Nail was born and reared in Georgia, whose parents were an old family of southern proclivities. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and was mustered out at Mobile. Mrs. Collins' paternal grandfather and four of his brothers, served through the seven years of the Revolutionary war, and all hved to relate the thrilling tales of experience. Mrs. Collins' mother was born in Green county, Tennessee. Her maternal grandfather was from England; her maternal grandmother was Scotch. Mrs. Collins was born in Bledsoe county, Tennessee, vi^here her father emigrated from Georgia. She was one of three living children; a brother, James Nail, a retired miner of Josephine, Oregon is eighty- four years old. Until the summer of 1900 she had not seen him since she was three years old. She has a sister, Elizabeth Tollett, who lives in East Tennessee. Mrs. Collins is the "Good Samaritan," or mother of the community. She has ministered to the needy and done more to alleviate suffering than any one individual in the vicinity of her home. She is kind, a benevolent woman and every worthy person receives recognition from her gentle and bountiful hand. The Collins family consists of six children, who are all useful members of society. .Thomas, a farmer of Lincoln county, whose wife was Susie Rushton, a daughter of Enos Rushton. They are the parents of five children, viz. : Flora, Nellie, Josq^h, Enos and Susie. May began teaching, but prefers assisting her mother with the household duties. Jane, who graduated from the South- eastern Business College, of Wichita, Kansas, in 1894, has just entered upon her eighteenth term. She is employed the present year at Fairview. William, stationary engineer at Randall, Jewell county, Kansas, studied and practiced dentistry, but prefers engineering. Lola, who has been a teacher for six years, is a student at the Salina Normal University. Like her sisters she is a successful teacher. James, associated with his father on the farm, is a good- natured, energetic boy, and has a kind word for everyone. 704 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. HENRY ROGERS. The subject of this sketch, Henry Rogers, like thousands of his country- men, has been adopted by "Uncle Sam," and like the majority of English people, he attained success, and is one of the progressive farmers of Lyon township. He was born in the city of Hertford, England, in 1850. He re- ceived a common school education in the Hertford city schools, and at the age of nineteen years emigrated to Monticello, Iowa, where an uncle, George George, his mothers brother, resided and who emigrated to Illinois in 1840, and settled in Iowa as early as 1849. Mr. Roger's parents were William and Sarah (George) Rogers. His father followed the occupation of baker. He died in England in 1874. Mr. Roger's paternal grandfather was a native of Wales. His mother's ancestry were English people. She died in 1870. He was one of seven children, three of whom are living. A brother and sister died in England ; Jolin a railroad man and Jane, wife of Harry H. Mansbridge, a merchant in the city of London. Mr. Rogers learned the cabinetmakers trade in England, but discarded that occupation and engaged in farming in Iowa, where he remained six years and emigrated overland to Kansas in 1876. When he reached Cloud county, his destination, he bought the relinquishment of Tom Bennett to his present homestead. Prior to this, however, it was the original homestead of the Yockeys, who figured so prominently in the Indian raids. Mr. Rogers has erected most of the buildings and furnished the principal improvements to the farm. His land consists of one hundred and sixty acres, about one half of which is wheat land, and is situated seven miles northeast of Glasco. He keeps about forty head of fine Hereford cattle. Mr. Rogers, with his father-in-law, drove five hundred head of sheep through from Iowa. Mr. Rogers has acquired all his possessions since leaving England. He landed in Iowa with fifty cents, and in Kansas with barely enough to secure his land. His first team was a yoke of oxen. In those days they exchanged work for commodities and Mr. Rogers incidentally remarked, Frank Wilson helped him as he did many other of the new settlers and added, "He was one of the best men the new country ever knew, he had money and he circulated it for the benefit of his neighbors." Air. Rogers, like all of the early settlers, saw many discouragements, but their wants were not so numerous as now, and he soon found himself with a few acres of land under cultivation, raising enough on which to subsist. He was married in 1876, to Mary Cool, a daughter of the Honorable Joseph Cool (see sketch of Mrs. Bates, who is a sister of Mrs. Rogers.) To Mr. and Mrs. Rogers have been born five children : Alfred, a farmer living in Lyon township, married to Hester Williams. They have one child, an in- teresting little daughter, Katherine. Rachel received a common school diploma from district No. 68, and graduated from the Concordia high school in 1896. She studied music in Lindsborg, has a cultivated voice and is an accomplished pianist. She has been employed continuously since her graduation as teacher HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 705 in district No. 68. Rolla Raymond, received a common school diploma from district No. 68, and is now on his second year at the Agricultural College at Manhattan, Kansas. Ad Failing, a graduate of the common school studies in district No. 68, and on his second year in the Glasco high school. Emma Vine, a little daughter of eleven years. In politics Mr. Rogers is a Populist, has served several terms as treasurer of his township and has been an efficient member of the school board for several years. Mrs. Rogers is a cidtured woman of fine instincts and a member of the Universalist church of Delphos. Mr. Rogers is a member of the Modern Woodmen, Glasco lodge. The Rogers home is an exceedingly pleasant one, and they are among the representative families of Lyon township. FRANK S. BISHOP. One of the most successful men of Lyon township is F. S. Bishop. He is self made and began his career by working on a farm ; his first employer was Clarence Ballou. Mr. Bishop is also self educated. When a boy he met with an accident which crippled him physically and prevented him from attending school until he was twelve years of age. Four years later he came to Kansas, where he was a pupil in the district school for one term, and a student of the Concordia high school for one year. He rented a farm of Charles King for one year, the proceeds of which enabled him to take a year's course in the Manhattan Agricultural College. In Concordia Mr. Bishop worked his way through school by driving a milk wagon for J. S. Herrick. This was in the winter of 1880, one of the worst winters Kansas has ever known ; the river was frozen solid until March. Prior to this he worked in a broom factory, assorting corn and sewing brooms. While in Manhattan he defrayed part of his expenses by working. Times ^vere hard but he was determined to have an education. He was a hard student and while at the latter institution almost finished a two years course in one year. After returning from Manhattan he worked for Charles King on the farm one year, and bought the place he now owns from his father. Since then he has added other lands until now he owns six hundred acres. In 1900 he built a commodious frame house of eight rooms, two stories in height and modern. They have considerable fruit, apples, peaches, pears and cherries. He began with a small herd of cattle which has increased from year to year, until he npw owns a herd of one hundred and fifty head of fine graded Herefords. His land is principally pasture. The chief products of the ground under cultivation is corn, kaffir corn and alfalfa. Mr. Bishop does not deny that his wife did her full share toward helping him up the ladder. She is one of those excellent Cool women, who make typical farmer's wives. Mr. Bishop was born near Mannassa, AVisconsin in 1859. He is a son of E. S. Bishop, who was born in Vermont in 1833. He was raised on a farm and followed carpentering the greater portion of his life. In 1853, he emi- grated to Wisconsin where he farmed and worked at his trade for about three 42 .706 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. years, and returned to Massachusetts, taking his family. After remaining two years, he returned again to Wisconsin. In 1868, he removed to Tennessee and settled in Sparta, White county, where he worked at his trade and was also associated in a grist mill. F. S. Bishop's mother died there. In 1872 the family returned to Adams, western Massachusetts, and four years later emi- grated to Cloud county, Kansas, locating on the farm where F. S. Bishop now lives. It was a timber claim. F. S. Bishop's paternal grandfather was a native of the Green mountains, Bennington county, Vermont. The Bishops originally came from England. Three brothers came to America and settled in the New England states, in the early days of that country. Mr. Bishop's mother was Cornelia Phelps, who was also of Vermont, and a daughter of Frank Phelps, an old Vermont farmer, whose estate has since been abandoned and allowed to grow up in timber. Most of the farmers in that vicinity deserted their farms ; their owners and tenants working in the forests. His paternal grandmother was a neice of Dr. Hosea Ballon, the founder of the Universalist faith. She was also a cousin of president Garfield's mother. F. S. Bishop and a sister are the only children by his father's first marriage. The sister is Inez M., wife of S. C. Gardner, a farmer of Lyon township. E. S. Bishop was married the second time to Eva Young, and they are the parents of three children : S. E., a clerk for the firm of Henry Bowen & Company, of Fairview, Oklahoma. Ralph, who farms with his father, and Nellie, a Cloud county teacher, now employed at the Lyon Center school house, district No. t^^'enty-two. F. S. Bishop was married April 18, 1886 to Miss Hattie M. Cool, a daughter of the Honorable Joseph Cool, an old settler of Cloud county, (see sketch of Mrs. Bates.) She taught two years in the schools of Cloud county, prior to her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Bishop three children have been born, viz. : Bessie, Alma and Elson, aged thirteen, eight and two years respectively. ;\Ir. Bishop is a Democrat and takes an interest in all legislative affairs, but is not a politician ; strictly speaking he is a thorough farmer and stockman. He has been one of the school board of his district for a term of nine years. He is a member of the T\Iodeni Woodmen, of Glasco. LEROY BISHOP. Leroy Bishop, a successful farmer and stockman, of Lyon township, came to Kansas in 1872, and settled one mile east of Delphos, where his father had homesteaded. Mr. Bishop is a native of Vermont, bom near Reedsboro, in 1853. He is a son of Joy and Rohanna (Stearns) Bishop. His father was Joy Bishop, Jr., and his place of nativity was also Reeds- boro, Vermont. He was born February t2, 181 5. He was a Universalist minister for more than fifty years. He began his ministerial career in 1840, and M-as pastor for several societies in the states of Vermont and Massachusetts. In 1856 he moved to Iowa, where he organized societies at Valley Farm, Straw- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 707 berry Point, Greely and other places. In 1871 he emigrated to Kansas, where he did excellent work as an evangelist in Delphos and other towns. He was also a great temperance worker and organized many societies for this cause. No man was more universally loved and respected in this part of the state than Reverend Bishop. Through his labors the society was organized at Delphos, and he was chiefly instrurhental in building the first Universalist church in that town, which blew down in the cyclone of i879,and replacing it with another church edifice. He Avas a prominent Odd Fellow and received a medal of honor — a veteran jewel — for twenty-five years of active service, a gift from the Odd Fellows grand lodge, which he esteemed very highly. Leroy Bishop is a grandson of Joy Bishop, Sr., who was born in North Haven, Connecticut, about 1725 and served through the Revolutionary War under General Washington. He married Abigal Blakely. They were married young, moved to Vermont in 1 790, where they purchased one hundred acres of - timber : cleared the land, built a small log house and reared their family of fourteen children. In this humble home, where the mother spun the flax they raised and converted it into clothing, Joy Bishop, Jr., was born. Leroy Bishop's great grandfather, with his two brothers, came to America from England in 1650, and settled at North Haven, Connecticut. Leroy Bishop began his career by farming. His intentions were to go to Chicago and become a machinist, but he came to Kansas and in the spring of 1874, was induced by circumstances to buy the homestead of Horace Wilson. Although he experienced some drawbacks with grasshoppers, prairie fires, drouths and various other things, he does not regret having established himself in Cloud county. One year he had all his hay and much of his corn destroyed by prairie fire. He began existence in Kansas in a 9x11 dugout, and this was large enough after being furnished with a bed, organ and other necessary furniture, to accommodate another family. The next season he hauled lumber frotn Clay Center and erected a small frame house, where they almost froze to death. It was not nearly so warm as the dugout. It was built of green cotton- wood, which shrunk and left great cracks for the Kansas zephyrs to swirl through. Mr. Bishop has made most of his money in raising corn and feeding cattle and hogs. His cattle are of the Hereford breed and he has at present (1901) about ninety head. His farm consists of four hundred acres. A handsome two-story residence and a barn 28x50 feet, a good apple orchard of about two hundred trees, a large peach orchard with about twenty different varieties of budded fruit ; plums, cherries, raspberries, etc. The magnificent growth of trees that surround and shadow their stately home from the blistering summer sun, were set out by Mr. and Mrs. Bishop in T876, and have made a wonderful growth. In the spring of the Centennial year, to commemorate that event, Mr. and Mrs. Bishop each planted a cotton- wood slip, which have made an enormous growth, one of them measuring twelve and one-half feet and the other eleven and one-half feet in circumfer- 7o8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ence and are about sixty feet in height. Many squirrels play through their branches and it is nothing unusual to see the siwrtive fox and gray squirrel gamboling over the roofs of the out buildings. Mr. Bishop was married in 1873, to Ida E. Ostrander, a daughter of John E. Ostrander, who came to Kansas in 1872, and settled about four miles northeast of Delphos. Mr. and Mrs. Bishop's family consists of a son and daughter. Leon Clare, is a graduate of the Delphos high school, class of 1897. He is in the employ of a publishing company. Ida Rowena is taking a course in music in Washburn College, Topeka. She is on her second year and is pursuing both voice culture and instrumental. Her voice is high soprano. The family are members of the Universalist church at Delphos. Mr. Bishop votes the Populist ticket. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., of Delphos. NlJVCYVIIvLE. The once prosperous and busy little hamlet of Macyville, is situated on the summit of the divide of a low range of hills. From this point water runs each way. The place was once known as Ten Mile, because of it being midway between the Republican and Solomon rivers. A postoffice was established there October i, 1871, with George W. Macy as postmaster. In 1879 the name was changed to Macyville, talcing its origin from its founder and first post- master. Mr. Macy conducted a store and continued postmaster there until about four years ago, a period of twenty-two years and six months. The village now consists of a store of general merchandise operated by A. E. Danderand, and one of the best equipped blacksmith shops in the county, owned by E. N. Burgeson. (see sketch.) In 1893 a church was erected by the Methodist Episcopal society at a cost of one thousand one hundred dollars. The congregation was organized a year prior. The church was built by a subscription and a donation from the church extension board. The Macyville school is one mile north of the town. Mr. Macy made the entry, and furnished money to pay for the ground which the district refunded him later. Some dozen years ago there were three stores in Macyville and the little town did a flourishing business, as Mr. Macy's books show sales of over two hundred dollars in one day. Including all who received their mail there, the village numbered in its palmy days two hundred inhabitants. The location is a beautiful one and a fine view of the country is had for many miles around. THE SUMMITT FREE BAPTIST CHURCH. The society of the Summitt Free Baptist church was organized in 1882 by Reverend I. T. Bradbury, a venerable and worthy man, and held their services alternately with the Methodist Episcopal society in the High- land Methodist Episcopal church which stood on the same site of the present edifice and was built in 1876-7 by the Methodist Episcopal society. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 709 The first pastor was George \\'interburn. The church was built by the people of Summitt township, the ground donated by D. M. Stockton, a member of the Baptist society. These two societies worshiped alternately until 1893, when the Methodist Episcopal church people sold to the Baptists and erected their church at Macyville. The Baptists tore down the old building and in the autumn of 1893, built and dedicated a church at a cost of $2,000 The aisles and pulpit are carpeted, seated with modern pews at a cost of $200, and the church is a credit to the country, being better than many in the smaller towns. There is a basement where societies and socials meet. They have a cemetery adjacent to the church ground, also donated by D. M. Stockton. The body of Miss Amanda Canfield was the first to be interred there. The cemetery is kept in good condition and surrounded by a woven wire fence. The first pastor of the Summitt Free Baptist church was E. A. Phillips, who resided in the township. The first influential pastor was B. F. Zell, of Marion, Ohio, an active and zealous worker. Reverend W. P. VanWormer also did good work. Under the pastorage of J. B. McMinn, of Tamarora, Illinois, a wonderful revival work was done. He was in charge two and one-half years. The Sunday-school has been an important factor in the church work. Last year they had a membership of one hundred and twenty-eight, with M. A. Stockton as superintendent. Deacons are J. S. Abbey, Winfield Tufts and M. A. Stockton. The present pastor is Reverend B. Haines, entering upon his first year. The church has never been without a pastor since its organization. They have ninety resident members, and one hundred and twenty including non-residents. The church has had several important revivals when from fifteen to fifty additions were made. The Woman's Missionary Society was organ- ized in 1887, with Mrs. N. L. Abbey, president. They have raised about $1,200, which has been used largely in furnishing the church, and have paid from $50 lo $75 towards the pastor's salary. To Mrs. Abbey much credit is due for her active work in the church society. They have a Church Endeavor which was established in 1893, of about thirty active and associate members. GEORGE W. MACY. Among the early farmers who still remain on their original homestead is G. W. Macy, the venerable landmark and founder of the little hamlet of Macyville, who traces his lineage- back to the Mayflower. Mr. Macy is a native of North Carolina, born in 18 19. He is a son of Asa and Hannah (Stanley) Macy, both of whom were born on the Island of Nantucket. The Macys were of Quaker origin and left England their native land, where they were oppressed, and sought liberty in America ; settling on Nan- 7IO HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tucket Island. In 1780, they joined a larger body of Friends who came over from England and settled in North Carolina, among whom were the Stanleys, his maternal ancestors, who were also adherents to the Quaker faith. This family of Stanleys were a branch of State Superintendent Stan- ley's and Governor Stanley's ancestors. ]Mr. Macy's maternal grandmother was a Worth. The Macy ancestors for two generations lie buried in the ancient Deep River cemetery of North Carolina. Mr. Macy retained the Quaker principles instilled into him from infancy and did not enter the service of the United States at the breaking out of hostilities in 1861. During this year he was enroute to Kansas, but owing to the turbulent times stopped in Indiana. In 1863, he again started for the "Sunflower" state, but the war was waging fiercely and they were mak- ing things "hot" up and down the Mississippi. When the Macys arrived in Keokuk they met recruiting officers who declared a willingness to make it safe for them to travel through the country, and they journeyed overland to Syra- cuse, Nebraska, Avhere I\Ir. Macy procured a homestead and farmed until 1871. In the meantime he had not given up his longings and intentions of emigrating to the fair land of Kansas to secure homesteads for his children, and accordingly disposed of his Nebraska land and on April 24, 1871, ate dinner on the ground he afterwards homesteaded. Mr Macy had two brothers-in-law who had visited this country in 1858, and their glowing description of Kansas inspired him with zeal to come. He took a pre- emption claim which he held for his son, A. N., until he became of age. His other son, A. F., had attained his majority and secured an adjoining claim ; and a son-in-law, the late John Beesley, located land in the same locality. Mr. Macy was married in 1842 to Lydia Gordon, a native of North Caro- lina, and a daughter of John Gordon whose ancestors were from the High- lands of Scotland. The Gordons were also non-combatants in Revolution- ary days and during the Rebellion, for tliey were alsQ of the denomination of Friends. Her paternal grandfather was beaten on the head by the Tories and had tliree ribs broken, while they were trying to compel him to enter the ranks of the Revolutionary service, but he was a Quaker, remain- ing firm in his faith and refused to go. John Gordon died in 1846. His wife died in 1844. They lived in North Carolina all through the war and received harsh treatment from both sides. Mrs. Macy's parents are both buried in Deep River cemetery. To Mr. and Mrs. Macy five children have been born, three of whom are living; Asa Franklin, Alfred Newton and Mary Jane, widow of John Beesley. Mr. Macy cast his first vote for William Henry Harrison, a Whig; he has since voted the Republican ticket. He has served as justice of the peace. He is member of the Society of Friends at North Branch, just beyond the Jewell county line. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 7" Mrs. Macy who had been his constant companion through Hfe died in 1881, and Mr. Macy lives with his children. Asa F. Macy, the eldest son of G. W. Macy, is a carpenter, farmer, and stockman, living on his original homestead adjoining his fathers. He was married in iS/zj-, the memorable grasshopper year, to Clara L. Gilliland. Her father was James Gilliland, who came to Kansas in 1872, from Missouri, and settled in Republic county near Wayne, where he died in 1874. Her mother died in 1900. She had lived with Mrs. Macy more than twenty years. Mr. and Mrs. A. F. Macy are the parents of five children, Bert E., who farms with his father; Mary Edna, wife of H. C. Moore, a farmer one mile east of Macyville; Avis, wife of George Dildine, a farmer one mile north of Macyville; and two little sons, Emery and Eeverett. A. F. Macy is a Republican ■ in politics and was the nominee of his parj:y for commissioner against Peter Hansen in 1892. He has been clerk of the school board in district number fifty-one for twenty years and township clerk for three years. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Alfred N. Macy, the j^oungest son, owns one hundred and sixty acres of land on the original town site of Macyville. He was married in 1884, to Laura Rushton, one of the estimable daughters of Enos Rushton (see sketch). To this union five children have been born, four of whom are living: Roy E. (deceased), Irena J., Jessie O.. George FL and Oliver H., aged fourteen, thirteen, eleven and eight years respectively. The Macys, both A. F. and A. N., are progressive, industrious and representative farmers of the Macyville community. —>» JOHN BEESLEY. One of the most prominent farmers and stockmen of Summit town- ship was the late John Beesley, a nati\e of Montgomery county. Indiana, born in 1847. He came with his parents to Missouri in 1855, and shortly afterwards located in Alba, Iowa, where his father died in 1861. In the spring of 1862, though but fifteen years of age, Mr. Beesley enlisted in the - eleventh Missouri Calvary. He was not old enough to enlist for active service, so he entered the ranks as a bugler, and was known to his comrades as the "bugler boy." He carried a saber, gun and revolvers and was chief bugler of the regiment until 1865, when he was mustered out at New Orleans. Mr. Beesley was wounded in the left hand, his horse was killed under him, and he was captured and paroled five days later. His hand was not dressed until he returned to the ranks at Duvall's Bluff, Arkansas. Mr. Beesley ex- perienced many close calls and carried eleven bullet scars on his person (none of which caused serious wounds) and had four horses shot from under him. He was under the command of General Steele. When he applied for his pen- 712 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sion in 1881, Doctor Slade, the physician who dressed his hand, wrote to know, "if he was the httle boy whose hand he had dressed." After the war Mr. Beesley returned to a sister in Iowa and soon after entered upon a freighting expedition across the plains, a business he followed for three years, through Colorado, Arizona and Wyoming as far as Fort Bridger. For a period of five years there were few nights that he slept under shelter. In the spring of 1869, he visited Nebraska City where he met and married Mary Jane Macy, of Syracuse, Nebraska, a daughter of G. W. Macy (see s'ketch). The}'^ came to Kansas with her father's famdy in 1 87 1, and landed on the ground which they afterward homesteaded, April twenty-fourth. Their nearest neighbor was four miles distant. A re- union was held by the Macy family twenty-five years from that day, and there were twenty-five Macys present — one for each year. There had been but one death in the meantime of the original settlers, the wife and mother, i\Irs. G. W. Macy. Mr. Beesley advocated the principles of Prohibition, was an active member of the Free Baptist church, and superintendent of the Sabbath- school at the time of his death, September 14, 1901. He was a gentleman of high Christian character and a director of the church for years. To Mr. and ]\Irs. Beesley nine children have been born, eight of whom are living, viz: Dell, wife of Alvin Hart, a farmer near Jennings, Oklahoma ;- Lydia C, wife of Alva Taylor, a farmer with residence in Glasco; David F., Fred N., and Harvey are all farmers living in the vicinity of Macyville; Josie V., a young lady of sixteen years, and John L. and Thomas Macy, aged twelve and eight )'ears respectively. ]\Ir. Beesley was the youngest member of the Concordia W. T. Sher- man Post, Grand Army of the Republic. Seventeen of the members of this body attended his funeral. JOSEPH GUIPRE. Joseph Guipre, one of the enterprising sons of Andrew Guipre, is rec- ognized as one of the most successful farmers and stockmen in Summit town- ship. In 1881, he purchased the Mrs. Andrew Collins homestead which he has improved, built a handsome residence and commodious basement barn. His land is a producer of large yields of corn. In 1889, he had a total of 6,600 bushels from a field of one hundred acres. He has some fine graded stock among his herd which ranges from forty to fifty head of cattle. The Guipres, like most of the Kansas farmers, have acquired their money rais- ing cattle and hogs. Mrs. Guipre, a lady of culture and refinement, was Olive, one of the estimable daughters of the late Enos Rushton, who was known to almost every Cioud- county citizen. One little son gladdens their home; Enos, the namesake of his grandfather, aged eleven years. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 713 Guipre are members of the Catholic church and all of their sons have been baptized in that faith. Politically they are Republicans. As citizens, they rank among the best families of the community. JOHN S. ABBEY. J. S. Abbey, the subject of this sketch, came to Cloud county in 1877, and settled in Summit township where he is familiar with each feature of progress made during his existence there. Mr. Abbey's experiences have been raried and numerous. He is a very interesting narrator of "war ro- mance" and takes great pride in relating them. He and his excellent wife have proved themselves to be people essential to the success and prosperity of the vicinity in which they reside. They are foremost in every worthy cause or enterprise that tends to the advancement of their community. Mr. Abbey was a native of Lake county, Ohio, President Garfield's birthplace, born in 1839. Lie is a son of William and Sarah (Wallace) Abbey. His father was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1807. His mother was also born on English soil. Her birth was in 1803. They were the par- ents of two sons at the time they crossed the water, the eldest of -whom died while enroute to America and was buried at sea. They emigrated to Amer- ica and settled on a farm in Lake county, Ohio. In 1841, they emigrated to Nebraska, and settler^ in Salem where he died in 188 1. Of the family of eight children there are but four living, one sister in Fairmont, Nebraska and one in Warren, Illinois and a brother in Falls City, Nebraska. Mr. Abbey had just attained his majority when the call for men to pro- tect the stars and stripes was made and he was among the first to respond. He hastily repaired to Chicago, where he enlisted in Company A, Fourth Illinois Cavalry, in 1861, serving three years and three months. His com- pany won honors and distinction as General Grant's escort. They joined his forces at Cairo, remaining with him until Vicksburg was taken, and then went to Meridian, Mississippi and back to Vicksburg and up the Red river with General A. J. Smith. They were on detached service the greater part of the three years. President Garfield was on General Rosecran's staft' and Mr. Abbey was one of the orderlies who carried despatches from Grant to Rosecrans. Mr. Abbey was at Holly Springs, Mississippi when General Forrest marched in. Mr. Abbey experienced a wild and dangerous ride of seventy-five miles. Lie started just as old "Sol" was sinking to I'est and arrived at the pickets of General Sherman's ranks just as the sun arose above the horizon. He demanded an audience with General Grant but was refused until he could prove his identity, and then was made the hero of the hour, for he was prostrated from fatigue and the excitement occasioned by meet- ing a band of guerrillas twelve miles out from General Grant's quarters, who began a fusilade of firing on sight, but the bra^'e orderly put the spurs to his horse — a fine animal of the French-Canadian breed — and as they pur- sued him the twelve miles the bullets whizzed near and all around hmi, but 7r4 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. he kept running and gained the pickets unharmed but completely oveicome physically. After the war Mr. Abbey returned to his home, married and settled on a farm in Nebraska near Salem, where he lived until coming to Kansas in 1877, when he bought the J. B. Stevens homestead, one of the oldest claims in the township. The improvements have all been made by Mr. Abbey. Mrs. Abbey was Miss N. L. Tisdal, a daughter of Thomas A. Tisdal, who was a drover in an extensive way in a time when shipping facilities were very different from the present age. The Tisdals were early settlers in Connecticut from Scotland. The original name which she has on a receipt dated 1806, is Antisdal, but was changed during her grandfather's time to Tisdal. Peres Antisdal of Scotland came across the water early in the last cen- tury. He was stolen when- twelve years old by a family of wealthy people and brought to America. They settled at Norwich, Connecticut where he married Mary Armstrong. She died in the year 1808, and lacked but one week of having lived a century. Phoebe Tisdal, Mrs. Abbey's great-grand- mother attended her funeral. She also lived to be almost a centenarian. The children of Peres and Mary, were Plimens, Lawrence, Silas and Dorcas. Plimens married, lived and died at Willington, Connecticut. His son Ches- ter', moved to Ohio, where he died at middle age, leaving three sons, Luc- ien, James and Martin, who lived in St. Joseph, Michigan, where their families still reside. Silas Antisdal, a brother of Plimens (Mrs. Abbey's great-grandfather) lived at Willington, Connecticut, and with his wife Betluah, and their sons, Curtis and Silas and one daughter, Betluah, emi- grated to what was then called New Connecticut, the western reserve of Ohio, where they bought land and when Buffalo, New York was their nearest milling point. This was in the beginning of the war of 1812, and they endured many hardships on the Avay. It was a great undertaking to make such a journey in those days as northern Ohio, now so densely settled was then one vast forest. The roads were made by blazing trees. They emigrated into this country with two wagons, one drawn by horses and the other by oxen. Upon reaching Lake Erie, they traveled over the ice to their destination, Madison, Ohio. It required the entire winter to make the journey from Connecticut. Silas Antisdal died September 13, 1817. and his wife in 1824. They were both buried at Madison, Ohio, where there is a large cemetery about half of whose dead are Mrs. Abbey's ancestors. They had nine children. Mrs. Abbey's grandfather was the eldest child. Curtis Antisdal, who changed the name to Tisdal, came to Ohio with his father. He was born in 1779. He was married in 1800, and he with his wife, Sarah Parker, lived at Willington, Connecticut and removed to Ohio in 1812, where he died in T837, and his wife in 1861;. Both lie buried in the cemetery at Madison, Ohio. Mrs. Abbey's father, Thomas, was one of their seven children born at HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 71 5 Willing-ton, Connecticut, September 13, 1809, and was married to Marie Stowe of Astabula, Ohio, in 1833. She died March 24, 1837, leaving one child, Harriet, wife of J. W. Leverett of Griesel, Missouri, where they are both retired from a career as educators. In May, of 1842, Thomas Tisdal was married to Lois Day Gill, who died ten years later at the age of thirty- three years leaving five daughters, all of whom are living. ]\Irs. Abbey's father was a prominent man of Lake county, Ohio; bought cattle from all over the country and drove them through to New York and other east- ern cities. Mrs. Abbey was his favorite child, often accompanying him on his trips. His pet name for her was "Moses." He died October 5, 1852, of consumption, and the wife and mother died twenty-nine days later. The daughters are Nancy Louise (Mrs. Abbey), who was educated in the Wil- loughby College, Ohio, and was a teacher for six years; Mary Elizabeth, wife of D. L. Wyman of Paj'^nesville, Ohio ; Sarah Parker, widow of H. C. Jennings, of Salem, Nebraska; Phoebe Ellen, widow of H. Q. Storer and Emma Lois, wife of J. J. Watchter, a merchant of Verdon, Nebraska. To Mr. and Mrs. Abbey have been born five children: Don Wyman, married Clara Coen and they are the parents of four children, two of whom are living: Fred Almond aged nine and Oscar Tisdal, aged three. He is a prosperous farmer of Summit township. Sarah Lois, wife of C. A. De- Long, an extensive farmer of Osborne county, where he owns four hundred acres of land. They are the parents of two children; Myrtle Leola, aged seven, and Jessie May, aged one and one-half years. William Herman Abbey, the second son, is a giant in proportion, standing six feet, six inches, in height. He is a postal clerk on the Missouri Pacific Railroad from Atch- ison to Stockton, is married to Myrtle E. Kingston and resides in Atchi- son. Fred Wallace, married Ida Belle Thompson and they are the parents of two children, Howard Soule and Walter Wallace, aged, four, and one and one- half years, respectively. Jessie Ellen is the wife of Byron Wheeler, a far- mer living near Concordia. They are the parents of one child, an infant. Ruby Margurite. Both of these daughters, Jessie Ellen and Sarah Lois, are talented in music and intellectual women. Mr. Abbey is a staunch Republican. He is a member of the Scotts- ville Grand Army of the Republic. The Abbeys are members, ardent work- ers and pillars of the Summit Free Baptist church organization, \\ hich owes much of its prosperity to their ardent interest. They have a neat and com- modious farm residence where this estimable couple will in all probability spend their declining years. GABRIEL CRUM. Gabriel Crum, the subject of this sketch, landed in Cloud county in the year 1878, with fifty cents in his pocket and with a family that consisted of a wife who was ill and two small daughters, Effie and Hattie. He traded a horse for the improvements, and eighty acres of land, ai; uninhabitable 7i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. dugotit, belonging to Miss Manigan. He homesteaded the land and at once proceeded to build some sort of an abode. He earned the ridge log and poles for the roof by the primitive mode of exchanging work and in this case he labored seven days. After his house was built they did not possess an article of furniture to begin housekeeping on. He bought a stove on credit; also a bill of groceries ; hung on to his fi|^y cents like grim death and came home feeling like a king, one of the happiest events of his life. Soon after getting settled in their dugout they were deluged with rain. The water came up to the railing of their homeinade bedsteads and they were completely flooded. When the water subsided they were, figurativly speaking, sunk in mud. These are a few of the many hardships Mr. Crum and his worthy fam- ily endured during their early residence in Kansas. A threshing machine came into the community. The men who contemplated buying were inex- perienced and could not operate it. Mr. Dobbs, the agent who was selling them the machine, not having had much experience in adjusting machinery could not figure out the difficulty. Knowing Mr. Crum had worked in that capacity he sought liim out and offered him twenty-five dollars to put the thresher in operation. Mr. Crum was overwhelmed by the munificent offer and arffirms that it sounded lotider to him than the heaviest peal of thunder he had ever heard. He set about to solve the problem and found the sieve had been put in upside down. He adjusted matters quickly and set the wheels and belts in motion. Agent Dobbs was so overjoyed that his pros- pective sale was not cut short by the machine refusing to work, took Mr. Crum around behind the thresher and thrust thirty dollars into his hand in- stead of twenty-five dollars. Imagine the smile that enveloped Mr. Crum's countenance as he shoved his wealth deep down into the pockets of his panta- loons. They then considered his services indispensible and offered him two dollars per day, full time, wet or dry, and he worked for them one hundred and twenty-three days. This was where Mr. Crum got his start. Mr. Crum is a native of Ohio, born in 1844. When one year of age his parents moved to Wabash county, Indiana, where they both died of lung fever, leaving two sons, himself, aged five and a brother one and a half years. They found a home with a family named Crasher and when twelve years old drifted into Illinois with a family by the name of Fox. The two boys remained together and both enlisted in the Thirty-ninth Illinois Regi- ment, Company B, which became one of the most famous that entered the Potomac valley. They were in this company two years and eight months and then en- listed in the Eighth Illinois Ca\'alry, Company M. He was mustered out at St. Louis in June, 1865, having served the entire term. His brother, Will- iam, was killed at the first day's battle of Gettysburg, at the youthful age of nineteen years. He enlisted at the age of sixteen. That he might not be rejected he put eighteen in his hat and nineteen in his shoe and remarked that he was between eighteen and nineteen. William was among the captured and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 717 thrown in Libby prison. He weighed one hundred and sixty-eight pounds when he altered and less than one hundred when released. Mr. Crum was in the battle of Rumley, February 22, 1862; Perthouse Bridge, August, 1862, and Winchester, June, 1862, where thirty-seven hundred and twenty of the Union boys were' thrown in the trenches and the first defeat "Stone- wall" Jackson ever suffered. He was in the battle of Berkley Springs, Bath, Virginia, and a great many raids and skirmishes. Most of the winter of 1864 they were after Mosby and the guerrillas. In one of these raids Mr. Crum's horse received five bulfets. After the war Mr. Crum returned to Illinois where he operated a thresher, header and corn sheller. In 1870, he moved to Lyons, Iowa, where he filled the position of night watch for two years ; later returned to Illinois and in 1878, emigrated to Kansas. He was married February 23, 1870, to MeHssa Bardon, a daughter of James Bardon, of Canada. Mrs. Crum was born in Augusta, Canada, and came with her parents to Ogle county, Ill- inois when a young woman about sixteen years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Crum's family consists pf four children, three daughters and one son. Effie, wife of Charles Hogu.e, a farmer of Arion township; they are the parents of two children, Mabel and I,ewis, aged seven and five years. Hattie, wife of George Hogue, a farmer of Madison county, Iowa, near the city of Peru; he is a brother of Charles Hogue. Their children are Floyd Albert, aged three, and Velma Melissa, aged two. AVilliam, who works with his father on the farm, is unmarried. Lusina, aged sixteen, is a graduate of Fairview school, District No. dy. Mr. Crum is a Republican and takes an interest in legislative affairs. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and of the Relief Corps. Mr. Crum had a hard struggle his first few years in Kansas; at one time every plow, drag or other implement, including his land and stock, v^ras under mortgage. He now owns two hundred acres of land, has a fine herd of native cattle and a commodious stone residence which is a comfortable fortune. His chief industry for a number of years has been cattle. Mr. Crum is an honest, industrious man ; a genial, whole souled neighbor, and one of the best citizens of his township. FRED GUIPRE. Fred Guipre is a stockman and farmer of Summit township. He is a native Kansan, born on the original Guipre homestead in 187 1. He is a son of Andrew and Gabriella (DeMauer) Guipre. His father was a native of France, born near the cities of Genoa and Lyon, which are situated near the Switzerland line. He was born in the year 1824. His parents having died when he was an infant, he was placed in an orphan asylum and later found a home with a family of farmers in that country. When twenty-six years of age he came to America, crossing the continent of South America and the Isthmus of Panama. He spent two ;i8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. years in Tennessee and assisted as a laborer in building the capitol in the city of Nashville. He spent five years in California, returning to France, married Gabriella DeMauer and \Yith his wife came back to America and set- tled on a farm in Ohio near Cincinnati. Mrs. Guipre was also in an orphan asylum. After ha-^'ing lived in Ohio fom" years they emigrated to Nebraska and settled in Xemaha county, near Nebraska City, in the spring of 1871 he came with his family to Cloud county, and located the homestead where he now lives with his son, Fred, the subject of this sketch. Fred Guipre is the youngest of five children, viz : Joseph, Lewis and John, all farmers of Summit township. The Guipres located in Kansas with very limited capital, but have acquired a large tract of land and made desirable homes. Fred lives on i:he homestead that his father located when there was not a house between his claim and Concordia. They have a bomb shell they found on the old government trail and among other relics an Indian tomahawk and spear. Mr. Guipre was married in 1896 to Emily A. Rushton, one of the ac- complished daughters of Enos Rushton (see sketch). They are the parents of one child, a little son, Fred Rexford. aged nineteen months. In 1875, Mr. Guipre's father erected a small stone residence and later enlarged and made it a comfortable home, situated in a beautiful and shady retreat on the banks of Lost creek. This is a desirable farm in a high state of cultivation, with a large ap- ple and peach orchard, \vhich yields abundantly. The farm is well stocked with hogs, horses and a fine herd of Shorthorn cattle. Mr. Guipre and sons own a total of nineteen hundred and twenty acres of land which is all located in Summit township exCept one hundred and sixty acres, in Solomon town- ship. On this ranch they keep from one hundred and fifty to two hundred head of cattle. ELIAS NATHANIEL BURGESON. One can imagine such a type as Mr. Burgeson suggesting the theme Longfellow immortalized in his poem entitled "The Village Blacksmith." His shop in the little village of Maceyville is one of the best equipped in the country, furnished with all of the latest improved tools and machinery for blacksmithing and wagon repairing. This enterprising and industrious young man grew to manhood on his father's farm in Arion township, adjacent to the village to Macyville, where Mr. Burgeson was born in 1873, and received his education in District No. 51. He is a son of Ole Burgeson, a native of Norway, born in 1843. Ole Burgeson served an apprenticeship as painter for three years in his native country. In 1866, he came to America and worked at his trade in the city of New York, where he met and married Maria Ockerblad, a native of Sweden. In 1870, while enroute to California they^eard of the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 719 Solomon valley, stopped off, Icolced over the situation and took up a home- stead where he lived until 1900, when he moved into Glasco. Mrs. Burge- son is a weaver of carpets, having learned this trade in Sweden, where she was also a weaver of linen cloth. E. N. Burgeson is one of six children : Josephine Christine was a teacher before her marriage to James Shepard, a farmer of Oklahoma; Julia Eliza- beth, unmarried; Levi Benjamin, a farmer; Emma Amelia, wife of Robert E. Cole, and Alice May. Mr. Burgeson learned his trade by practical experience, having always been interested in mechanical work. He began operating on a cash capital of three dollars Avhen nineteen years of age. He established a shop on the farm where he experimented and gradually developed a knowledge of the different kinds of work incident to blacksmithing, except horse shoeing. His shop now contains a four-horse-power gasohne engine; sharpens plows and all edged farm tools with trip hammer. A wood boring machine for tenoning wheels is run by this engine, which is superior to the old way with a brace. This machine, of his own invention, is a folding device that serves two purposes — a common boring machine and also a tenoning machine. He also has a device for blowing the bellows by means of a crank wheel, from which extends a rod down to the bellows handle where it is attached by means of a screw clutch, thereby making it tight or loose, which gives him perfect control over his fire. This ingenious device is also run by the engine. Mr. Burgeson is a progressive 3'oung man and one who will undoubtedly keep up with the times. He owns his shop, a building 24 by 36 feet in di- mensions. A. H. AIOXTGOMERY. A. H. Montgomery, one of the most highly respected citizens of the Macyville community, first saw the light of day in the great commonwealth of Ohio, Adams county, in 1826. It was no fault of Mr. Montgomery that he did not win laurels on the battle field for he offered his services and was rejected upon the grounds of disability. Early in life he learned the tan- ner's trade, following that occupation several years and later became asso- ciated with Jesse Grant, the father of President Grant. This combination existed imder the most pleasant and successful operation for a dozen years. The latter part of this period Mr. Grant's son Orville, succeeded his fathers interests. The establishment consisted of one hundred and sixty vats and an extended beam house where they finished and unhaired the hides. This im- portant enterprise was run by steam and furnished labor to ten men, and was subsequently sold to New York parties who operated it for a series of years, when it was burned to the ground and never rebuilt. The Montgomerys and Grants were on friendly social terms. Mr. Mont- gomery relates an amusing incident which is perhaps hitherto unwritten history. In speaking of General U. S. Grant he says : "Fred Grant (his son) 720 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. secured the services of a little darkey to tie his horse, act as body servant, and vi^ait on him in true southern style. Soon after General Grant returned home one evening, Fred, with his valet following closely upon the heels of his master, put in an appearance. General Grant inquired somewhat sternly, 'Fred, what have you been doing with a "nigger" running around after you all afternoon?" The next moment he smnmoned the dusky lad to stand up before him and said, 'Cuffie, did Fred hire you?' 'Yes, sir,' was the prompt response. 'What did he say he would pay you?' 'A quarter,' was the re- ply. Ulysses paid it and delivered the following order. 'Fred, get your horse.' When he had complied. General Grant turning to the darkey, said, 'Cuffie, take that horse,' and to Fred, 'Take that "nigger" home and bring the horse back.' " In the year 1861, Mr. Montgomery emigrated, to Jefferson county, Iowa where he lived until 1879, — ten years too long he says. In the spring of 1879 he came to Kansas and settled near Macyville on the farm where he now lives. Mr. Montgomery's parents were Adam and Jane (Hayes) Montgomery. Mr. Montgomery was married, in 1847, to Rebecca A. Wright of Ohio. She is a daughter of Isaac Wright, a farmer of Adams county, Ohio. To this worthy couple, three sons and three daughters have been born, viz : Mary Alice, widow of Jacob Hutten, of Omaha, Nebraska; Ida, wife of R. J. Wilson, a farmer of Summit township ; John Harvey, who was a railroad man until two years ago, when he located in St. Louis, where he has charge of a stationary engine; Andrew, of Jamestown (see sketch); Cora, wife of C. W. Amspacher, a former merchant of Simpson, Kansas. James M., a farmer whose wife died three years after their marriage and he has since lived at home with his parents. Politically Mr. Montgomery is non-partisan and votes for the man. Mr. Montgomery and his wife, who is a kind, motherly woman of refined instincts, are members of the Macyville Methodist Episcopal church. MARTIN ALEXANDER STOCKTON. M. A. Stockton, the subject of this sketch, was one of the old residents of Summit township until his removal to Oklahoma in the spring of 1902. Cloud county can illy afford to lose such valuable citizens as M. A. Stock- ton and his estimable family. He was one of the hardy and persevering pion- eers who helped in a tangible way to develop this country. The Stocktons were sanguine, full of hope that a farm in Kansas would some day honor their drafts. Mr. Stockton came with his father's family to Cloud county, in 1871. Their house was a half way place between Con- cordia and Beloit, and the first frame house in the vicinity. This old land- mark still stands. Mr. Stockton's parents were Hiram and Lucretia (Bar- ber) Stockton. Hiram Stockton was a native of Kentucky, of German origin. His HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 721 grandfather emigrated from Germany to America and settled in Kentucky in an early day. Mr. Stockton was a blacksmith and wagon maker and fol- lowed that trade in his earlier life, but coming west filed on government land for himself and his boys. There were ten children in the family, eight of whom are living — a daughter died in infancy — nine boys lived to man- hood. Mr. Stockton and five of his sons homesteaded land in Summit town- ship; of these A. J. Stockton of Summit township is the only one remaining. They were in limited circumstances and came overland from Kentucky with ox teams. Their first house was of logs with dirt roof and the first above ground between Glasco and Jamestown. This domicile housed a family of eleven. The buiifalo and antelope supplied them with meat. Hiram Stock- ton died in 1882 at the age of sixty-three years. Lucretia Barber was of English origin. She was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1826, and came with her parents to Clinton county, Kentucky v/here she married H. C. Stockton in 1864. She died at the residence of her son D. M. Stockton in 1893. M. A. Stockton's brothers are Andrew Jackson, a farmer of Summit township. William Riley was killed in a well in 1871. They had dis- carded work on the well for a few days. He was let down by ropes and was overcome with damps, falling about forty feet and was killed in- stantly. M. A. Stockton descended, thinking it might have been the fall that killed him. He, too, was at once overcome, and was pulled up, barely escaping with his life. They then removed the damps by drawing sheets up and down and recovered the body. Daniel Marion Stockton is a cattle man of Oklahoma. Levi Madison, a farmer of Saline county, Kansas. James Carroll, a farmer and stockman of Oklahoma. George Washington, John \\'olford and Lewis Sherman, all farmers in Oklahoma near the city of Stillwater. The Stocktons are all prosperous farmers and stockmen. They are self made, enterprising and good managers. M. A. Stockton lived on his original homestead and owned a half section of land, feeding and shipping Shorthorn cattle, and hogs until his removal to Oklahoma. He was married in November 1877 to Miss Olive Ethahna Web- ster of Saline county. She is a Kansan, born in Neosho county near Council Grove. Her father is Theodore Webster, an early settler and one of the most prominent cattle men in the state. He is a New Yorker by birth. Came with his parents to Illinois and located near Galesburg. Later they came to Kansas with an ox team. A sad accident occurred during this overland trip. The oxen ran away with a heavily loaded wagon, throwing out two little girls, the wagon running over and killing one of them. They were early settlers near Council Grove; so primitive that one of the settlers was compelled to take the partition out of his house to improvise a coffin. This was in the early 'fifties. They became discouraged and left Kan- sas for a period of five years but returned and took up a residence in Saline 43 722 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. county, where her mother died in 1872. Her father now lives in Illinois. Mrs. Stockton is one of four children. Josephine Marie, wife of B. G. Schriven, elevator man, land owner, and stockman; also engaged in the im- plement business with ' residence in Lucas, Lincoln county, Kansas. Jennie, wife of R. W. Jay, a Saline county farmer, and Jessie, wife of William Kyle, an elevator man in the state of Washington. To Mr. and Mrs. Stockton four children have been born. David Web- ster, associated with his father in farming and stock raising. Hiram Fmnklin, Jessie Lucretia, aged thirteen and John Martin. ENOS RUSHTON. "Father Time is not always- a hard parent and though he tarries for none of his children, often lays his hand lightly upon those who have used him well; making them old men and women inexorably enough, but leav- ing their hearts and spirits young and in full A'igor. With such people the gray head is but the impression of the old fellow's hand in giving them his blessing and every wrinkle but a notch in the quiet calendar of a well spent life." Ihe above quotation from Dickens ap- plies to the rare personality of the late Enos Rushton, one of the most highly respected, and most prominent men and politicians of Cloud county. He was one of the first com- missioners and sat in almost every conven- tion for more than twenty years; was one of the best posted men in the county on parliamentary rules and was usually chair- man of the convention. Was chairman of the fifth congressional district at the time of his death, which occurred at Weatherford, Oklahoma, January 14, 1901. Mr. Rushton was a native of Lafayette, Tippecanoe county, Indiana,- horn October 22, 1839. His paternal ancestors were of Scottish descent, and his maternal ancestry were of German origin. Mr. Rushton served with distinction as sergeant of Company B, nineteenth Iowa regiment three years. Was captured at Morganza, Louisiana, taken to Tyler, Texas, where he was retained as a prisoner for six months. They were captured on the twenty-ninth day of September, 1864, and after a brief time were marched to Shreveport, where they remained all winter, suft'ei'ing for want of clothing and blankets, having been robbed of all their possessions. They were taken to Greenwood and from there made an escape on the twenty- Enos Rushton. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 723 sixth of April, 1865. The rebels became alarmed at the near approach of Steele's cavalry, and ordered that all the Union prisoners be hurried off to Tyler, Texas. To attempt to escape in such a country so far from Union lines required a good deal of counig-e. They adopted the following plan to escape: Dug a hole large enough for two on the level ground, cover- ing it over with brush, dirt and ashes. This last act was performed by a comrade who did not feel strong enough to escape with them; there they remained until the "Butternuts" had left the place when they came out from their hiding and made for Alexandria, where they supposed they would find the Union anny, but met the advance. They encountered many nar- row escapes from falling into the hands of the rebels again, but in these instances, as in many others, fortune favored the brave. They were then as- signed to the duty of provost guards in the third division of the thirteenth corps. A daughter, Mrs. Joseph Guipre, has in her possession a daily paper which was published at Natchitoches, Louisiana, bearing the date of April 4, 1864. On the margin of the sheet is a message written by Mr. Rushton, which reads as follows : "I am feeling all right again since getting into the Union." She also has a copy of the paper, "The Daily Citizai," pub- lished in Vicksburg, July 2, 1863. Mr. Rushton was present when the original copies were printed on the historical wall paper edition. There were not enougli for each soldier and a second edition was gotten out, a copy of which was received by Mr. Rushton at the old soldiers reunion held at Fairfield, Iowa. It is a reproduction as found by the Union soldiers when Grant captured the city. Mr. Rushton was married to Jane Taylor, September 6, i860, in Wa- pello county, Iowa, and in 1873 emigrated to Kansas and located on tlicir farm in Summit township, where Mrs. Rushton died June 20, 1898. Their five daughters survive them and all but one are residents of Cloud county : Laura, wife of Alfred N. Macy; Susan, wife of T. N. Collins; Olive, wife of Joseph Guipre; Emily, wife of Fred Guipre, and Nellie, a nurse in the homeopathic hospital of Denver, Colorado. The Rushton daughters are all accomplished and educated women. Mr. Rushton was a life long politician. He was county superintendent of Wayne county, Iowa, for four years, and at one time received the nomi- nation by the Republican party for probate judge of Cloud county. He helped to organize District No. 64, known as "Highland," which was changed after his death to "Rushton," in honor of his memory. At the Cloud county convention, which convened in Concordia, March 18, 1902, to elect dele- gates to the congressional convention, they offered the following resolution : "Since our last representative gathering, death has called to his embrace one who for many years has been the most familiar figure in a Cloud county representative convention, our congressional committeeman, Enos Rush- ton. We recognize in his death the loss of a citizen of the highest sense of honor, a man of sterling integrity and a friend of every worthy cause. 724 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ALFRED AMOS MANN. One of the old settlers and representative farmers of Summit township is A. A. Mann. He is a native of Monroe county, Ohio, born m 1841. He vi^as raised on a farm, receiving a common school education, and at the age of twenty-one enlisted in the service of the United States army, Company C, 1 1 6th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in August, 1862. His regiment oper- ated principally in the Shenandoah valley and wound up at Appomattox. Mr. Mann was mustered in as a corporal and was detached to drum corps. He was in the battles of Winchester, Virginia, June 14, 1863, Piedmont, Virginia, June 5, 1864, Lynchburg, June iS, 1864, battle of Winchester, September 19, 1864, Fisher Hill, September 22, 1864, Cedar Creek, Octo- ber 19, 1864, Ft. Gregg, April 2, 1865, Appomattox, April 9, 1865. Of the fifty-two men in their company, thirty were killed and wounded in the battle of Piedmont. They were under the command of General Wildes, who often expressed himself in no measured tones as to the bravery and efficiency of this regiment and said it was an honor for any man to be able to say, "I belong to the 11 6th." After the war, Mr. Mann returned to Ohio, his native state where he remained until coming to Kansas in 1872. Mr. Mann was married in April, 1862, to Nancy O. Coen, who was also a native of Monroe county, Ohio. They came as far as Solomon City in 1872, and from there to Cloud county with an ox team and settled on the farm where they now live, his original homesteaded, and where they have experienced all the hardships of the early settler. They first built a log house with a dirt roof where they lived several years. Mr. Mann relates how at one time they were without an3^thing to eat except flour and about one "batch'' of that, not even salt, nor grease. Forced to resort to something Mr. Mann started for an unknown destination in quest of something to eat and met his sister, who handed him five dollars that had been sent from their home in Ohio. The providential sending of this money bridged them over. The first July in Kansas he had no money nor land broke out; a prairie fire came doing much damage which added to their hard- ships. Mr. Mann is of German origin, his ancestry were among the early set- tlers of Pennsylvania. His great-grandfather was sold to a sea captain to pay his passage to America and to pay the debt fought in the Revolutionary war. He was wounded in the thigh. They were a race of farmers who- settled in Pennsylvania and later moved to Ohio where they took up wooded land. Mr. Mann's father was born in Ohio and was rocked in a cradle made of a hollow log. His mother was Phoebe Strahl, also of Ohio. Mr. Mann is one of nine children, six of whom are living. A brother, Thomas David, is a promi- nent farmer of Mitchell county; Lydia, widow of L. D. Carleton, is a resi- dent of Manhattan ; Hannah E., wife of A. W. Burdur, a farmer of Summit township; Barnett G., a farmer and Esther Josephine Finch. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 725 To Mr. and Mrs. Mann eight children have been born, all of whom are living. George W., a farmer near Superior, Nebraska. Hiram T., a miner of Snmpter, Oregon. E. A., a farmer near Vermillion, Kansas. Phoebe E., wife of E. E. Gildersleeve, a farmer of Summit township. C. J., a far- mer near Bloomfield, Oklahoma. Mary J., wife of H. H. Swaney, a farmer of Summit township, Lydia and Anson. Politically Mr. Mann is a Republican; attended to the duties of trustee of Summit township for two terms. He is a member of the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons and the Grand Army of the Republic, No. 173, at Scottsville. The family are members of the Christian church at West Asher, Mitchell county. The Mann family are talented singers and an acquisition in that capacity to church work and musical circles. Mr. Mann has one hun- dred and eighty acres of land which is principally adapted to wheat growing, and he has five acres in apple orchard and other small fruits. GRAVES POSTOFFICE. The postoffice of Graves was established in 1883, in the store of Thomas Graves, for whom the postoffice was named. It was located on a state sec- tion of land then owned by Matt Wilcox. He sold the building to J. B. Wilcox and the goods to. Sherman Dodson, who was appointed postmaster. Shortly afterward the building and most of its contents were destroyed by fire. For a time the office was discontinued. The postoffice inspector endeavored to persuade Mr. Dodson to erect a building and continue the office but he would not assent. In June, 1900, Isaiah D. Crittin was appointed postmaster and the office continued under the name of Graves. Last December (1901) the contract was let for a rural delivery route between Concordia, Graves and Macyville, but the postoffice will be continued in the store opened by Mr. Crittin in the same year (1901). JAMES I. WRIGHT. J. I. Wright, one of the substantial settlers of Arion township, came to Kansas in 1870, and to Cloud county in 187 1. He is one of the thrifty, pro- gressive men of his community. He was born in Ohio, but restred princi- pally on a farm in Ogle county, Illinois. His parents were Hiram J. and Laura Jane (Frost) Wright. His father was a- New Yorker and when a boy moved with his parents to Ohio. At the age of twenty-three he settled in Illinois and in 1872, emigrated to Kansas taking up a homestead in Cloud county, Arion township. In 1899, he retired from the farm and moved to Concordia where he now lives at the age of eighty-two years. The Wrights are of English origin. Mr. Wright's mother died when he was about ten years of age, leaving three children, one son and two daughters. The eld- est daughter, Minerva, died in 1892, leaving a husband and three children. 726 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The other sister, Mary Maria, is the widow of Edmond Loricky. Mr. Wright's father has been three times married. There were two children by the second marriage and two by the last. His mother having died when he was very young-, Mr. Wright was de- nied many advantages, his education limited and what he has was acquired in a practical way. When Mr. W^right was young, his home was broken up by his mother's death, which actuated his desires for army life and he wel- comed the excitement and passion incident to war. At the youthful age of seventeen he enlisted in the service of his country. Some of the soldiers came home on a furlough and this inspired him with a desire to join the army. He started in with General Sherman at Chattanooga and never saw a week's rest until the cessation of hostilities. His captain was Peter Walker. They were under the command of Colonel VanTassel. They participated in the battles of Buzzard's Roost, Peach Tree Creek, and Kenasaw Mountain. During this latter engagement a bullet passed in close proximity to Mr. Wright's chin, just grazing it — a narrow escape. There was no breastwork and every available tree had a man back of it. The one Mr. Wright had sought refuge behind was a very diminutive one, a sapling in reality. It was cut in two and he was left entirely without a hiding place, exposed to the enemy's fire, the bullets falling like hail around him. A comrade fell wounded and Mr. Wright succeeded this poor victim in his place behind & tree. They were fighting on the way from Chattanooga to Atlanta and did not know the condition of the enemy's breast works until within their midst; they had built them that night. Many of their regiment were killed and wounded in this attack. His company received a lot of new recruits just as the war closed. At the close of the war Mr. Wright returned to his home in Illinois and in 1866, was married to Nancy Sylvina Rice. Her father was David Rice of Green county, Kentucky. In his early life he moved to Ohio wherehe was married to Mary Tilton and where Mrs. Wright was bom near Simons Run, Coshocton county. She with her par- ents moved to Illinois where she met and married Mr. Wright. Her father was a minister of the old P)ible Christian persuasion. He died in 1888, at the age of seventy-five years. To Mr. and Mrs. Wright six children have been born. Lottie Ann Thenia, wife of J. E. Graham, a farmer of Lyon township. Their family of children are Edith Mabel, Emma Lucinda, Jeniss Calvin and James Alvin, twins, and George William. Leander Albert, a farmer of Arion township. His family consists of a wife and three children. Walter Andrew, Jesse Irwin and Clowie Leota. His wife was Elizabeth E. Hogue, a daughter of A. J. Hogue who died in Iowa. She came to Kansas with her mother who died in 1898. Mary Elizabeth, wife of Frank Garst, a farmer of Arion township. They are the parents of four children; James Wilbur, Samuel Perley, Charles Alfred, and Mark Elsworth. Ernestine Adeline, wife of \\'alter Isaac Brooks, a farmer of Lyon township and a son of John Brooks (see sketch). William Alexander is a stone mason by occupation. Harriet HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 727 Luella, the youngest daughter was recently married to Joseph C. Driscoll, a young farmer of Arion township. Mr. Wright came to Kansas with a team, two cows, a wife and two children and nine dollars in money. He is entirely self made, never having received a dollar from home. But upon the other hand, when lie returned from the army he found his father's family in need of help and his bounty was given over to them. He bought his team on credit of an uncle who gave him assistance by not collecting the note when due. It was not paid imcil about six years ago. Mr. Wright learned the trades of plasterer and stone mason in his earlier life and there is not a house or chimney in the vicinity of his home but what he has assisted in building. He worked at Lindsay and Minneapo- lis, Kansas, in the early seventies, often walking to and fro. By degrees Mr. Wright has prospered. From a shanty they erected a one and one-half story residence and in 1886, built a one and one-half story addition, making a six room residence, substantially built of stone. In 1900, built a stone barn 32 by 36 feet. Until five years ago Mr. Wright kept a large herd of sheep; had at one time upwards of five hundred. Besides their wool he fattened and sold, making it a profitable industry. He raises cattle and hogs quite extensively. His chief products of the farm are wheat, corn, Kafhr corn and cane. Mr. Wright is a Populist in politics, but not an active politician. He is the justice of the peace of Arion township. They are members of the Church of God. Mr. Wright is one of the solid, self made men who has- gained everything by his own exertions, his industiy and his integrity. So- cially he and his family are among the leading people of their community. JOHN BROOKS. John Brooks is a progressive farmer and stockman of Lyon township. He is a native of Iowa, born in Keokuk county, in 1848. He is the youngest child of Johnsey and Margaret (Glover) Brooks' family of ten children. His father's place of n.ativity was Maryland, born near Baltimore, in 1792. He was of Dutch and Irish extraction. He emigrated from Maryland to Ohio, subsequently to Guernsey county and from there to Iowa. Mr. Brooks' mother vvas born in Ohio. She ched in 1882, at the age of seventy-five years. She was of French extraction. Of this family of ten children, just half of that number are living,, viz : Louisa Jane, widow of Samuel Snyder, of Smith county, Kansas, Mar- tha, wife of Benjamin Denny, an Englishman; they live on a farm in Keo- kuk county, Iowa. A sister, Nancy Adair, \Wmg in Missouri. Samuel, of Osborne count}-, enlisted in the Mexican war, was detained by illness in New Orleans and did not see active service. J. J., of Marion county, Kan- sas, is a furniture dealer in the town of Burns. Mr. Brooks has never engaged in any occupation but farming andi started out to earn a livlihood without capital, but possessed with the ambl- 728 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. tion and courage that serves a young man just starting in life better than finances. He rented land which he farmed and later bought a small tract of ground which he sold and in 1875, came to Cloud county, and took up a homestead which he sold about twelve years ago and in 1880, purchased the farm he now lives on adjoining his original place. He improved this farm and in 1901, erected a splendid modern residence of seven rooms. He pur- chased his original homestead in 1899^ and now owns four hundred acres of good land. Upon his advent in Cloud county, he had but little else other than a large family. His assets v^^ere forty dollars and his liabilities sixty dollars. In 1888, he engaged in the sheep business and has made it a successful in- dustry, even when the price of wool was low. tie started with seven hundred sheep and his flock has varied from two to seven hundred, feeding and- selling. Mr. Brooks is an extensive wheat grower. In 1901, he had two hundred acres that averaged sixteen bushels to the acre. Mr. Brooks was married in 1867, to Julia Roll, a daughter of Warren L. and Melissa (Asken) Roll. Her father was an old settler of Cloud county, homesteading and living here until 1890, then moved to Doniphan county, where he died in 1897. They were formerly from Indiana, but emigrated to Iowa, and from there to Kansas. Her father was a native of Kentucky. Her mother died in 1898. They were the parent^ of twelve children, all of whom are living but three. Five of their children were born in Orange county, Indiana, Mrs. Brooks included in that number. A brother, Warren Roll, is a farmer of Arion township; Maggie, wife of Elmer Tilton of Glasco; She has two brothers in Doniphan county, a sister and brother in Oklahoma and two sisters in Iowa. To Mr. and Mrs. Brooks twelve children have been born, ten of whom are living, viz : Nancy Jane, wife of Frank Graham, a farmer of Lyon township. Their four children are, Nellie Naomi, Edna May, John Calvin and Abbie. Isaac W., the eldest son is a farmer of Lyon township. His family consists of a wife and four children; Ray, Lela, Freddie and Eddie. Mary Effie, the second daughter, is the wife of Rozzel Bailey, a farmer of Arion town- ship. They are the parents of six children ; Charles, Leota, Ettie, Roy, Eva and Myrle. Abbie, the third daughter, is the wife of Max Cross, a farmer of Rooks county. They have two children; Otto Glen and Gladys Glee. Alice, wife of Pat Driscoll, a farmer of Marshal! county, Kansas. Their family consists of three children: Rita, Julius and Mabel. Willard Eaton, unmar- ried and assists with the farming and stock. Hannah, wife of Alvin Gates, a farmer of Lyon township. They are the parents of one little son, Vernie Ray. John L., is a student on his second year in the Concordia high school. The two younger sons, Ferdinand Taylor, and William H., are both at home. Although Mr. Brooks has had many discouragements to contend with he is now on solid footing. His farm is one of the most highly improved in Lyon township. Lie has a fine basement barn 36 by 40 feet in dimensions with sixten foot wall. A hail storm passed over his land in 1889. The corn HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 729 was in roasting ear; every vestige of his crop was destroyed. The storm in- cluded a strip ninety miles long and from six to eight miles wide, starting in the locality of Superior, Nebraska. This loss was seriously felt by Mr. Brooks, who at that time was not in a financial position to lose his crop with- out being badly crippled. Politically, Mr. Brooks is a Populist. He is a good citizen, an honest industrious and practical farmer and stockman. WILLIAM P. WINTER. William P. Winter is a son of Charles H. Winter and like his father he is a successful and enterprising farmer and one of the leading young men socially in Arion township. He is public spirited, taking an active in- terest in political issues, municipal and educational afifairs. He is an ardent Populist politically, served one term as justice of the peace in his township; was re-elected but refused to accept. In his community the Alliance flour- ished and Mr, Winter was president of this organization so long as it existed. They had a subordinate Alliance in that district of one hundred members. Mr. Winter was born on a farm in Vernon county, Missouri, in i860, where his parents lived for a brief time, then moved to Stark county, Ill- inois. In 1866, he came to Washington county, Kansas with his parents as related in his father's career. He received the greater part of his educa- tion in the schools of Concordia. In 1881, he was married to Eppie, a daugh- ter of Samuel Morehouse. Her father was born in New York but emigrated with his parents to Missouri when he was a small boy and grew to manhood in Clark county, where Mrs. Winter was born, October 8, 1863. Mr. Morehouse served a little more than one year during the latter part of the Civil war, and gave his life for his country's cause. He lost his health during this period from exposure and privations and from these causes died one year later, leaving a wife and two daughters. The other daughter is Sarah, the widow of J. A. Ryan, who is a farmer of Republic' county. Mrs. Winter's mother was married again in 1872, to Malon Hayworth. They are residaits of Washington county, Kansas. To this union two chil- dren have been born : Emma, wife of Frank Risinger, and a son, John, both of Washington county, Kansas. Mrs. Winter's mothei' was born in 1838. Mr. and Mrs. Winter are the parents of three fine sons_ who bid fair to make their mark in the world. Charles, a bright young man of seventeen is a student on his second year in the Concordia high school, prior to a course in the State University. William F., has made a record well worthy of commendation in their home school. District No. 83. He has neither been absent nor tardy for five school years. Vernon, aged nine years started to school in the fourth reader grade and has mastered the first principles of arithmetic and has neither been absent nor tardy. Children with disinterested parents would scarcely make these records nnd it undoubtedly would be a source of gratification to teachers if there 730 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. were more of their patrons who exercised such pains-taking interest in their sons and daughters of the pubHc schools. Mrs. Winter is a valued corres- pondent of the Kansan, one of Cloud county's leading papers. She has chronicled the news of the Graves neighborhood for several years. CHARLES H. WINTER. C. H. Winter, an old soldier, one of the representative men and exten- si\'e farmers of Arion township, was born in Pennsylvania in the year 1830. When one year of age his parents remo^'ed to the state of New York and seven years subsequently to Stark county, Illinois, where they settled on a farm near Toulon. His father was William Winter, a Pennsylvania farmer and a soldier of the war of 1812. He died in Henry county, Illinois, June 4, 1864. His grand- father John Winter was from Scotland, and settled in Pennsylvania in the pioneer days of that state. His mother before her marriage was Mary Jackson of French ancestry. She was born in the state of New York and died in 1877. When twenty-one years of age, C. W. Winter married and immediately emigrated to California, where he engaged in mining pursuits with consid- erable success for five years, but not unlike many of the western miners, he speculated and lost. He returned to Illinois in 1858, where he farmed until 1862, and then responded to the call for volunteers by enlisting in Company A, I2i]th regiment Illinois Vohmteers, under Captain Tenney, with Colonel Howe commanding, remaining until the close of the war. He was a prisoner six months in Cahoka, Alabama. He was fortunate enough to be under Captain Freeman instead of Captain Gatewood, who was collecting prisoners and when he had gathered a dozen, would hang or kill them. This was his established rule. He requested two of Captain Freeman's men to make out his number in this instance, but was refused and Mr. Vv'inter escaped the fate which otherwise might have awaited him. He was in the siege of Vicksburg and Atlanta. They were taken to Black River from A^icksburg for exchange. When they arrived at their destination, they were cold, hungry and wet. The night was dark, the rebels refused to ex- change on the grounds that they could not see. They disbanded and set the woods on fire to keep warm. They suffered many hardships. Finally they received the government supplies and some of the men ate so ravenously that they died as a result. They were mustered out at Springfield, Illinois, and from this point Mr. Winter returned to his family. In the spring of 1866, he emigrated to Washington county, Kansas, then on the frontier, and took up the homestead where they lived sixteen years. In 1872, they again moved on to the frontier in Rooks county and filed on a timber claim. Mr. Winter assisted in platting the town of Stockton. Three years later he went to Colorado for a brief time and returned to Con- cordia where they kept a. feed stable that their son might have the advan- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 73 1 tages of good schools. Three years later they returned to Washington countjf. In 1 88 1, they sold their farm and bought the Simon L. Cook home- stead in Arion township, which they have added to from time to time until he now owns a whole section of land on the divide between Wolf and Coal creeks, all imder fence. It is mostly wheat land and this year he has sowed four hundred acres. In the summer of 1901 he had two hundred acres that yielded from twenty-five to thirty-five bushels per acre. Mr. Winter has raised cattle and hogs, and corn until the last few years, but is now practi- cally retired. He was married in 1862, to Sarah E. A. Dray, of West Virginia, where her maternal grandfather was a slave holder. She is a daughter of Peter Dray, a blacksmith by occupation. Wlien she was a small child, her parents moved to Ohio and settled near Port Homer in Jefferson county. Her father died August 17, 1855, in Stark county, Illinois, where he had moved a few years previously. Mrs. Winter's paternal grandfather was of Irish birth. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Her great-grandfather was in the church uprisings of the old country, emigrated to America and settled in Ohio in an early day. I Tor mother was Martha Foster, whose ancestors were from the Isle of Jersey. She died in 1894, at the home of her son-in-law, the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Winter's maternal grandmother was Elizabeth Wolver- ton. Of a family of twelve children, Mrs. Winter and one sister survive; Mrs. Lasley, who lives on a farm in Arion township. To Mr. and Mrs. Winter have been born two children, but one of whom is living. The daughter was Mary, deceased wife of John McNulty. who died June 16, 1889, leaving three daughters. Anna, Alice, and Julia. Anna is the wife of Harry Evans, of Stockton, Kansas. Alice lives with Anna and attends school, Julia lives with her grandparents. Their son is William P (see sketch). Mr. VVinter is non-partisan and votes for the best man. The Winter family have a large and comfortable house of ten rooms. Mr. Winter has been financially successful in Kansas and his farm is a fortune within itself. He is an enterprising man and a good citizen. W. G. KOCHER. A well-to-do farmer and stockman and owner of one of the most de- sirable country homes in Arion township is W. G. Kocher, the subject of this sketch. He is one of those thrifty and enterprising Pennsylvanians that are seldom otherwise than prosperous. He was born in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, in 1849. He is a son of George and Elizabeth (First) Kocher, both of German origin and natives of Pennsylvania. George Kocher was twice married. W. G. is the youngest son of the second marriage and one 732 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of feight children, six of whom, are living. Mrs. Kile, .Iving in Center town- ship is a sister. When Mr. Kocher was nine years of age his father died, and at the age of eighteen years he entered upon farm life. A few years later he secured employment on public works that were in course of erection in his county and later engaged in the lumber business with Gaston Brothers. He had accumu- lated a little bank account out of his earnings and in December, 1887, came to Kansas, and the following January bought his present farm of one hun- dred and sixty acres. He tore down the old stone residence built by the old homesteader, Mrs. Doer, and erected a handsome residence in 1898. In 1893, he added one hun- dred and sixty acres, the original Eagle homestead lying one mile south, and in 1898 bought one hundred and sixty acres adjoining on the west, most of which is pasture land. Mr. Kocher is an extensive wheat grower. In 1900 he had a fifty-three acre field that yielded a total of fifteen hundred bushels. In 1898 he had a yield of thirty-eight bushels to the acre. During the corn years Mr. Kocher has fed and shipped hogs by the car load. He keeps a herd of graded Shorthorn cattle. His farm is under a fine state of improve- ment considerable fruit and an inexhaustible well which furnishes water as pure and cold as any in his native state. He was married in 1874, to Katie I. Riddle, a daughter of Doctor John W. and Rachael Harriet (Close) Riddle. Doctor Riddle is a distin- guished physician. He began the practice of medicine in Utica, Pennsyl- vania. In 1862, he entered the Sixty-first Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan- try as surgeon of the regiment, remaining until the close of the war. Was with the army of the Potomac. He was born in 1820 in Venango county, on a farm where he lived until twelve years of age when his father sold out and engaged in merchandising When seventeen years of age Doctor Riddle entered the Jefferson Medical College, of Philladelphia, where he graduated in 1844. He is retired from the practice of medicine and now lives with a son in Arm- strong county, Pennsylvania, thirty miles north of Pittsburg. Doctor Rid- dle is a grandson of Edward Riddle who settled in West Virginia after serving in the Revolutionary war, and where Doctor Riddle's father was born and partially reared, and later moved to Pennsylvania. Doctor Riddle's maternal ancestors were of Scotch origin and early settlers in the state of Pennsylvania. The Doctor is the only surviving member of a family of four. To Doctor and Mrs. Riddle five children were born, viz: Alexander P., ex-lieutenant governor of Kansas, and one of the best known men in the state, is a resident of Minneapolis, Kansas, and editor of the Minneapolis Messenger. Charles M., one of the police force of the city of Youngstown, Ohio. Catherine I., wife of W. G. Kocher, the subject of this sketch. George K., of Armstrong county, Pennsylvania, who is a lumberman oper- ating a saw mill. Marguritta, wife of L. C. Hassenfritz, an engineer in the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 733 Thirty-third street steel mills, of Carnegie, Phipps & Co., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. To Mr. and Mrs. Kocher nine children have been born, eight of whom are living, viz: Charles E., a resident of Minneapolis, Kansas, and editor of the Minneapolis Journal. He left the farm in 1806 and went to work in the Minneapolis Messenger oflice where he remained six years. He was married to Grace Cline in 1899. Lorena, wife of Will Y. Thornburg, a graduate of the State University of Nebraska. Claudia, wife of William Nelson, a farmer of Arion township. They are the parents of two chil- dren. Opal and Gaylord. .Those unmarried and at home are, Athelstan, Hattie, Ada, Melvin and Helen Politically Mr. Kocher is a Populist. The Kochers are attendants of the Wesleyan Methodist church. New Hope congregation, of which Mrs. Kocher is a member. BUFFALO CREEK VALLEY. The praises of the Buffalo creek valley have not been sung like those of the Solomon and Republican valleys. While not so pretentious in point of area it vies with them in beauty and fertility of soil. From some of the promontories that overlook this prosperous and fruitful valley a magnificent bird's-eye view is gained, — fields of waving grain, commodious residences and herds of fine cattle grazing in the pastures indicate its great agricultural wealth and form a rural scene of rare and exceeding beauty. Grant township is the banner wheat growing local- ity of the county and Buf- falo township is not far in the rear. During the har- vesting season in the month of June when the cereals are in a state of perfection this is one of the most beautiful valleys in the entire country. The great fields of yellow grain extend far beyond the range of vision, and the serv- ices of every available man and boy in the vicinity are in demand, many being sent in from outside points. Corn, Kaffir corn and oats are also raised extensively although wheat is the principle crop. Alfalfa, the great forage plant is being more generally grown — its sphere of usefulness becoming more and more apparent — while the profits vie with tliose of other products, with less labor attendant. Almost every farmer is out of debt and has financial interests in stocks or money on deposit in the banks. The homes throughout the valley present the same idea of thrift as characterizes those of the Repub- lican and Solomon. There are few residences or barns in the community but what are freshly painted and present a prosperous, home-like exterior. Property is constantly increasing in value, and practically none for sale on the market. There has been a revolution of things since Thomas Hall, of Threshing in the Wheat Field. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 735 Grant township, "swapped" a quarter section of land fdr an old cultivator and a bushel of potatoes. This estate which was purchased for so small a consideration less than twenty-five years ago, could not be secured for several thousand dollars cash in hand at the present time. A good story originating from Grant town- ship is told on one of the old settlers of that vicinity. In the early settlement of the county — if there was no other means of water supply — a well must be dug before the homesteader could prove up on his land. To dig a well, or bore for water, pene- trating the bowels of the earth to a depth of some for- ty or fifty feet, and sometimes more, was considerable of an undertaking and one fellow, presumably a "Yankee," not having the where- with to comply with this requirement devised an equivalent; he dug a hole in the ground, inserted a barrel in the exca^•ation and filled it with water — although not a fountain or an issue of water from the earth, it was a compound of oxygen and hydrogen ihat met the essential conditions. During the drouth and grasshopper year many left their claims and many more would have gone, but were devoid of the wherewith to take them. But they were not listless, nor did they mope or sit dismally twirling their thumbs "waiting for luck," but continued to improve their homesteads. Though times were hard they did not wear gloomy countenances, but took a philosphical view of things, as if the old adage, "It is not the cloud but the sunsliine that gives beauty to the flower," was ever uppermost in their hearts. Humanity is never free from trouble, and it is well they are not; trouble gives tone to life— fortitude and courage and enables us to enjoy with more fullness the blessings of life. Harvest Scene. FLOODS IN BUFFALO CREEK VALLEY. Although the banks of Bufifalo creek are uncommonly high abo\-e the Ijed of the stream it occasionally gets beyond its confines. During the latter part of the month of September, 1870, the Buffalo creek valley was visited by a flood which over-flowed the bottoms lands adjacent to Bufifalo, (then known as Salt creek), the two Cheyennes and Whites creeks. The few settlers at that time were confined to the low lands lying along the streams and though the flood did considerable damage it served as a timely warning, the advisability of moving upon higher ground. This locality was visited 736 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. by another over-flow July 26, 1876, which destroyed all the crops in the low lands, also many hogs, turkeys and chickens, involving a serious loss to many farmers By another visitation of high water July twenty-third, Buffalo creek developed into a raging torrent of water and poured its surplus unstint- ingly over the low lands coA'^eririg the fields of green corn, but receded and no serious harm was incurred. August eighth, of the same year, however, this locality was visited by a severe hail storm, including a stiip two miles in width and several miles in length, which beat the blades and tassels off the corn until there was not enough left worth garnering. In some instances the farmers gathered the remaining crop, but unfortunately lost rather than gained in the event for the grain was covered with smut and killed many of their cattle. The storm was an unusually severe one, beating the grass and vegetables into the ground. JAMESTOWN. The prosperous little city of Jamestown is situated eleven miles west of Concordia in Grant township. The town was originally platted by C. I. Gould. A tract of land comprising sixty acres was divided into lots, of which each alternate division was given to the railroad company. P. A. Thomas one of the early settlers of that community, who OAvned a farm adjoining the tOAvn site laid out what is known as the "Thomas Addition," consisting of twenty-five acres, which makes a total area of eighty-five acres in town lots. The city was named in honor of Senator James Pomeroy. "Roy" Fitz- gerald was the first child born there and was presented with a silver cup from Senator Pomeroy, with the recipients name "Henry Pomeroy Fitzgerald" engraved upon it. The location of Jamestown is one of the most desirable in the country. It overlooks the superbly beautiful Buffalo creek valley, which is a veritable garden of rich, fertile country in a magnificent state of cultivation. The farmers in this locality are exceedingly prosperous and their well improved country places, well fed herds of cattle and well culti- vated fields, tell of thrift and prosperity second to none in Cloud county. Jamestown is situated in a hustling, bustling community, and is said to transact a larger volume of business than any town of its size in the state. This statement is made by disinterested persons who are conservative and in a position to know whereof they speak. The first to embark in business in Jamestown were Strain & Bracken, two well known Concordia men, who opened their store October 15, 1878. The former, Myron Strain, is still a resident of the city. A. P. S. Ansdell, one of the pioneers of the township, Avho had conducted a country store on his farm, one and one-half miles from Jamestown, for several years, moved his goods into the new town and opened up for business October 27, 1878. J. E. Fitzgerald, who is often mentioned as the "Father" of James- town, was among the first to locate and establish a business which grew from HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. m a very diminitive affair to an enormous magnitude. The success of the Jamestown merchants is an inspiration to any one starting on a career with small capital. Among the late arrivals are men of energy and progress who have made remarkable strides in business, and all lines are represented. The prosperity of their city is attributable to the support it receives from the people of that vicinity. They almost invariably patronize home industry and on all questions of local improvements they stand shoulder to shoulder. Jamestown is located on the summit of the divide and it is noticeable that these localities escape most of the wind and hail storms; they separate at this point and follow the creeks and low lands, the town getting none, or at least a small part of the tempest. Never has there been a destructive storm in the city. The nearest call it experienced was when a cyclone visited Republic county and Irving was destroyed. No real damage was done but a few buildings were badly shaken. The kiln that furnished the lime for building the fii'st houses in James- town was situated one mile east of the present site and was operated by Ed Hobson and James Nelson ; the latter a son of the Reverend Nels Nelson. The pioneer blacksmith shop in the township was established by Andrew Jackson Belden, just south of the present townsite, on Cheyenne creek in 1872. JAMESTOWN POSTOFFICE. Tn 1871 a postoffice was established in Grant township, located just opposite where the "Prairie Gem School-house" now stands in district num- ber thirty-four. The name was suggested by the late A. A. Carnahan and the new postoffice christened "Fanny," in honor of Miss Fannie Price, a sister of Commissioner Price. Henry Nelson was the first postmaster. Fanny (now extinct) was once the scene of considerable traffic. It was one of the stage lines relay stations, and if the commodious stables were left standing they would be one of the historical landmarks of that sec- tion. They were built of cottonwood timber concreted with lime (burnt on the premises) to make them bullet proof as a protection against the Indians. In 1873 the postoffice was removed to the house of Jacob Fulmer, two and one-half miles west of the present city of Jamestown and was con- ducted there until the founding of that city. One Charles Miller was the pioneer United States mail carrier. Seventy-five pounds was the limit of Uncle Sam's goods to be carried. John U. Hodgson was appointed postmaster and established a postoffice one mile east of Jamestown, which was named Alva postoffice. When the city of Jamestown was established Fannie and Alva postoffices were discon- tinued. M. M. Strain received the first appointment for postmaster in James- town. A. P. S. Ansdell received the second appointment, and the office has changed with each administration since. During the great upheaval of Popu- 44 738 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. lism, James S. Burton was installed as postmaster and was succeeded by M. L. Champlin under Cleveland's first administration. J. E. Lundblade was ap- pointed during Cleveland's second term to the presidency. J. O. Hanson, the present postmaster, was appointed under AIcKinley. He is a conscientious and very efficient officer, serving the public to the universal satisfaction of all. Jamestown has two exceptionally fine mail routes and application in for a third. The north route is twenty-eight miles in length and M. L. Chaplin is carrier. It was established in October, 1900; this route is No. i. Route No. 2, also went into effect in 1900. It runs in a southerly direction and is twenty-five miles in length. Charles E. Carpenter is carrier. Each route carries from five thousand to six thousand pieces of mail per month, route No. i exceeding route No. 2 by a small amount. JAMESTOWN SCHOOL. The city of Jamestown lies in district number thirty-two. The first school building still stands and is the office of Hill's lumber yard. The present school building was erected in the spring of 1884 at a cost of about $4,000. The first corps of teachers were Ed. Hostetler (one of the best educators Cloud county ever had, ) as principal ; Maggie Jones and Delia Lute, assistants. The Jamestown schools are up to the standard. Some of the best talent in the county have been employed there; among them the most prominent perhaps are A. B. Carney, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Tarbox, John B. Wood and their present insti'uctor, P. M. Bushong. The well arranged course of study as prepared for the grades of the city schools used all over the state is taken advantage of by many young men and women of superior endowments in the thriving little city of Jamestown; whose educational advantages are many times superior to many of the graded schools in the much larger towns of the eastern states. FIRST NEWSPAPER. The first newspaper of Jamestown was "Gospel Leaves," a scientific and local paper issued one and one-half years, beginning with ' October, 1880. It was a quarto, eight page, fourteen inch column sheet, published monthly and edited by Elder JameS H. Lathrop at his home near the Saron Baptist Church. Although its editor resided several miles in the country the paper was considered a Jamestown issue, was mailed to its numerous subscrib- ers through the Jamestown postoffice, contained local data, "write-ups" of the town, personals, ads. of business men, etc. Gospel Leaves was an earnest advocate of temperance reform, hygiene, and clean literature, and denounced all the evils and abominations which affect mankind. The paper had a circulation of about three hundred, reach- ing over the several counties where Elder Lathrop's services as minister extended. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 739 The Jamestown Optimist, the present paper, after various changes, has fallal into the hands of J. B. Kimmal. SALT MARSH. Surrounding six salt springs is the great salt marsh in Grant township, which attracted much attention in the early settlement of the county, as it was expected extended manufactories would be established there and much specu- lation was indulged in regarding it. The marsh covers an area of about four hundred acres of land. During the spring time and in wet seasons a lake is formed, but in dry weather the surface is incrusted to a depth of three-eighths of an inch with salt. To test the quality, a well was sunk to the depth of fifty feet, from which a vein of salt water flowed. The strength of the surface brine reaches one hundred and thirty to one hundred and seventy-five gallons to the bushel of salt. It is said to have been found by scientific analysis, the salt produced by the evapor- ation of these brines is a purer article than most of the brines from which our principal supplies of this product are obtained. The well dug by the gov- ernment continues to flow. It is situated on the farm of C. N. Baldwin. SOME OLD SETTLERS. A record of the Jamestown community would be incomplete without mention of some of the old settlers who were known personally or whose characteristics have been handed down through a line of years by some cir- cumstance or peculiarity. Lewis Kiggins was one of the first settlers of the township and was dis- tinguished for his prowess as a huntsman. To him belongs the honor of killing the last two buffalo in Cloud county. The Clemmons farm was their original homestead. There were two grown sons in his family, James and John, the latter was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal faith and lived in the neighborhood about ten years. Mr. Johnson was universally known by his sobriquet "Coffee Pot" John- son, which he earned in the following manner: Not yet having established a home on the frontier he was camping on the banks of Buffalo creek. He was preparing his morning meal, and while his coffee was brewing over the fire the frontiersman was probabl)^ pondering the situation over in his mind or perchance saw in the glow of the bright red coals visions of his new and uncultivated possessions, transformed into an ideal home. While thus wrapped in thought his day dreams and the mute stillness of the atmosphere were disturbed by the cracking of the bushes nearby, and upon looking in the direction from whence the sound came was suddenly confronted by the painted countenances of two stalwart, broad-shouldered Indians, whose first expres- sion upon seeing and smelling the fragrant breakfast was "Coffee, coffee." They seized the pot, drank what they wanted, poured the rest on the 740 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fire and crushed the utensil under their feel. Mr. Johnson, it is needless to say, was somewhat frightened, and hastily left them in camp, feeling they had granted him an unusual privilege in not detaining him or depriving him of his scalp. He went down Bufifalo creek and over to Lake Sibley, where in broken English the Swedish settler told his experiences which won for him the name of "Coffee Pot" Johnson. Mr. Johnson later met with a sad and untimely death. He was an inof- fensive man, and although he traveled all over the country, he never carried weapons. He was of Swedish birth and had learned the shoemaker's trade in the old country. He was a bachelor and lived on his homestead about eight years ere he married. After a happy wedded life of a few years his wife, who was a Danish woman, died, leaving two sons who stirvive their parents and live on the farm. Mr. Johnson continued to li\'e on the homestead with his two little sons, who were too young at that time to attend to the duties of the farm. Mr. Johnson's health became impaired and he found it necessary to rent his land. Trouble arose between himself and the renters over a division of the crop. Although small of stature he tried to prevent the two men from entering the granary. They o\'erpowered, struck and kicked him several times. One of his little sons ran to a neighbor, saying they were "killing his father." When friends came to his rescue the assailants had fled. Mr. Johnson was tenderly cared for but his wounds proved fatal and he died a few hours later. These men were charged and prosecuted for the crime, but evidence was brought to bear that Mr. Johnson was in the last stages of consumption and would have died anyway. Their claim was that Mr. John- son assaulted them and they acted in self-defense. Mr. Johnson was conscious and related the details of the affair. His assailants were cleared of the serious charges preferred against them. HISTORY OF THE JAMESTOWN BANKS. N. V. Brown organized a bank in Jamestown in 1885, in the building now occupied by F. E. Lane as a real estate office. It was under the manage- ment of Frank Kellogg, who was subsequently succeeded by Ed Hostetler. This bank went into liquidation during the panic of 1892. About the same time Frank Kellogg, and the Everests, of Atchinson, started a bank which went under during the financial crisis of 1893, but paid off its depositors. THE JAMESTOWN STATE BANK. The Jamestown State Bank began business May 7, 1898, with a paid up capital of five thousand dollars. At the present writing it has a surplus and undivided profits of three thousand dollars. Its directors are John Kelly, M. E. Kelly, Ed. Pratt and John E. Lundblade, of Jamestown and J. C. Postlethwaite, of Jewell City. Its officers are J. C. Postlethwaite, president; HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 741 John E. Lundblade, vice-president; John Keh)', cashier; and John Pratt, assistant cashier. Although a comparatively new banking firm it is on solid footing and the Jamestown people are justly proud of this institution. The bank is located in a building erected and especially designed for banking purposes by Kellogg and Everest at a cost of seven thousand two hundred dollars; a two-story brick building with modern fixtures that would do credit to a city much larger than Jamestown, and far ahead of the town or magnitude of the banking business. The Jamestov/n bank is under the management of John Kelly, who is also the principal stock holder. Its deposits at the present time (July 1902) are fifty-six thousand dollars. PROMINENT WOMEN TAKE CHARGE OF JAMESTOWN'S CITY GOVERNMENT. The attempt to put down the whiskey traffic had proven unsuccessful, and the idea originated among the citizens of Jamestown to elect women to the offices of mayor and council. A suggestion was made half in jest and half in earnest by F. A. Lane, that the ladies be allowed the management of the city's affairs. Mr. Bradley heard the proposition, repeated it to his wife and from this the movement was created. The action seemed to meet with the approval of the people and was opposed by but few individuals. Like most other places, Jamestown was divided into two factions; the "wet" and the "dry,'" and while the temperance ticket had usually been elected, the law has not always been enforced. The male population considered the advisability of turning the adininistration over to the women, believing their influence might be more potent, in its eft'ects. During this year there was a strong temperance movement all over the state and the jointists were made to realize "the way of the transgressor is hard." Mrs. Anna M. Strain was nominated mayor, Mrs. Mary E. McCall, Mrs. Jane E. Hartwell, Mrs. Lavina Wilcox, Mrs. Jennie Gould and Mrs. A. I. Isbell received the nomination for board of council. When the matter was first suggested to Mrs. Strain and she was asked to accept the nomination, she hesi- tated at the responsibility it would incur, as did her co-workers, but she and three of the members of the proposed council, Mrs. McCall, Mrs. Hartwell and Mrs. Wilcox, were Womens Christian Temperance Union workers; while all were advocates of the prohibitory law. The ticket won by a large majority. Miss Mamie Hartwell was elected city clerk by a lai'ge vote but chd not qualify, and Baird Gould, the retiring clerk was re-appointed. F. E. Lane was elected police judge. The first move of the mayor and her council was to besiege the joints with requests to close and thus avoid further trouble. But such a form of government was entirely too mild and their admonitions were not heeded. Their second move was to secure affid'avits and put them in the hands of the county attorney. As a third they investigated the injunction plan of closing. As a last resort they petitioned the grand jury and had this body 742 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. found the parties guilty who were taken in charge, others would ha^•e been more easily brought to justice. The combined call of these officials and the taxpayers of Cloud county was their last hope. The cases were called before this body, but either the law was lame or evidence incomplete. A petition was circulated, submitted to the grand jury and a search instituted for good witnesses to appear against them. One of the two joint- ists withdrew on account of popular opinion and through the assistance of the man who owned the building he was "ousted." The other man, Lewis, was brought up in court at various times. The male members of the city officers were a drawback to the administration as they did not act in unison with the mayor and council. Soon after the election a raid was instituted and her honor, the mayor and her assistants were accused of the attack; but they emphatically pleaded "Not guilty." The board did not favor licensing the saloons and consequently refused to accept their fines. All sorts of reports were circulated regarding James- town's board of city officers and the press, at home and abroad, were rife with comments for and against. For the purpose of creating a sensation some person (supposed on good grounds to be a citizen of their town) reported law and order were running rife; gambling devices free for all, etc. Through this medium many erroneous statements gained circulation. Exaggerated articles were published concerning their administration of the city's affairs; many of them entirely devofd of truth. Their every movement was criticised. Mrs. Strain answered many personal letters and also replied to newspaper articles and the Associated Press. The Chicago Tribune of June ii, 1897, said in substance: A unique moral crusade has been instituted in Jamestown, Kansas, by allegedly down- trodden men. By a political freak at the last election the town was given o^er to the women and it is claimed the result is disastrous. Saloons are said to be running- wide open, game chickens permitted to demonstrate their prowess in the most brazen fashion, and even quiet games of the national paste-board variety ha\e found safe harborage; an affair in which the whole nation seems interested. They further promised for their town, if governed by women it would be a veritable garden spot of purity and municipal decorum. They then question if the officials themselves have found the rustling struggle of roosters a legitimate source of enjoyment, and it must be imagined afternoon teas have given away before the seductive inroads of "draw." The writer then followed with the concession that the rumor must be a plot created through the conspiracy of base men; a plot to under- mine their gentle reign was being insidiously hatched. This article was followed by a personal letter from the Tribune editor- in-chief to Mrs. Strain, making inquiry as to the truthfulness of the article. Another published in the Daily Drover's Telegram stated the town was run- ning "wide open," and that the men were calling out for reform; that their reign was decried, etc. Others said women were better law makers in theory than in practice. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 743 Mrs. Strain became a conspicuous figure and while those scathing arti- cles were sent broadcast over the "land she received much encouragement. She was the recipient of a personal letter from the preceptress of a university in Berlin, Germany, and many considerations from other parts of the world, asking in most instances if the current reports were true. She was besieged upon every hand for an expression of her experiences as mayor; a distinc- tion accorded but few ladies and none, prior to her reign. At the urgent request of the citizens of Sterling, Kansas, where she was attending the United Presbyterian synodical meeting which convened in that city, Mrs. Strain addressed a large audience. These officials did not seek control of the city government, neither did they have smooth sailing, but their admin- istration resulted in much good and their reign was fully as deserving of praise as any of their predecessors. Among other things accomplished was the improvement and beautify- ing of the Jamestown cemetery and in their city, new stone street crossings were laid ; and be it said to the credit of these ladies were not paid for with "blood" money. The board of council was constituted from the best material in their town. Mrs. Strain is an intellectual and cultured woman, competent of assuming grave issues. The author inquired of one of the board of coun- cilwomen, if she considered their reign a successful one, to which the ex- official archy responded : "I guess not ; they didn't re-elect us." METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH OE JAMESTOWN, KANSAS. The Methodist Episcopal congregation at Jamestown was organized by the Reverend W. S. Morrison in the spring of 1880. W. H. Robinson received the first appointment as class leader. Reverend Morrison served the first charge from March, 1880, to March, 1881. Reverend A. Ball was appointed in March, 1881, and served until March, 1884. In the first year of his pastorate the present church building was erected and dedicated. There are three outside points included in the Jamestown work : "Prairie Gem" school house, four miles northwest, Macyville, ten miles south- east, and Scottsville, nine miles southwest of Jamestown. A conservative estimate of the cash value of the church is about one thousand five hun- dred dollars, with a parsonage adjoining. The enrollment on the church books is eighty-two full members and four probationers. The following ministers have been in charge beside the first two named: B. F. Hewlett, S. A. Green, J. C. Walker, G. H. Cheney. James Flowers, W. E. Jenkins, W. B. Eley, \^■'illiam D. Vandevost, C. E. True- blood, H. A. Manker, F. D. Funk and F. A. Colwell, who is the present pastor. The parsonage was built during the pastorate of Reverend B. F. Hew- lett, in 1884. During Reverend F D. Funk's pastorate it was remodeled, reconstructed and three rooms added. The first Sunday school in Grant township was organized in June, 1871, 744 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. with Peter Jones superintendent, C. I. Gould, secretary and treasurer. It was organized as a union Sunday school, held in a dugout and was largely attended; people coming seven and eight miles. During the first summer the attendance was from forty to sixt}-. The first Methodist Episcopal class was organized the following winter by Reverend Rose, a circuit rider preacher. During the spring of 1872, their first meeting was held in May, at West Hope, in Mitchell county, eight miles west of the present Jamestown. The congregation strtiggled on holding meetings in dugouts, vacant cabins, school houses and halls until 1881, when the present house was completed under the pastoral care of John A. Ball. The church is a frame building with a seating capacity for about two hundred and twenty-five people. The church is self-supporting and is in good financial condition. They expect soon to remodel and reconstruct the church, enlarge the seating capacity, build a tower on the corner and various other improvements. C. I. Gould is now on his second year as superintendent of the Sunday school. His enrollment is one hundred and thirty, with an average attend- ance of about one hundred; an Epworth League with Junior department, C. E. Carpenter, president. Both are in fine condition. Clara Vogue is president of the Junior League. There is in connection a Ladies' Busy Bee society, with Mrs. Fink, president, Mrs. Annie Ansdell, vice-president, Mrs. Carroll, secretary, Mrs. Colwell, treasurer, and are doing good work. CHURCH OF CHRIST OF JAMESTOWN. September 6, 1881, a charter was 'taken out for the organization of the Church of Christ of Jamestown with the following members : William Spahr, Luther Bradley, Daniel French, Robert Barton and William French (the two latter are still residents of Cloud county), the corporation to. be sustained by voluntary subscription. The following year a church edifice was erected, a frame building with a seating capacity of about two hundred. The congregation is small and the church is not able to maintain a regular minister. At one time it was one of the strongest denominations in the city. Elder Beaver, of Glasco, min- isters to the congregation twice a month and has many friends and admirers among the people of Jamestown. FIRST UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF JAMESTOWN, KANSAS. During the latter part of 1882 or early in 1883, Reverend J. P. Finey Ixjgan preaching irregularly for the Ll^nited Presbyterians, who had secured homes in and around Jamestown. Jiven before this time Reverend Patter- son, then pastor of the "Concordia Congregation," seven miles north of the HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 745 city of Concordia, had preached a number of times in a school house five or six miles northeast of Jamestown. By order of Concordia Presbytery a meeting in charge of Reverend J. P. Finey and the session of Concordia congregation was held at the French school house, two miles northwest of Jamestown, on April i8, 1882, to perfect the org-anization. After a sermon and prayer by Reverend Finey, fourteen persons were received by certificate from Concordia Congegation as charter members of the First United Presbyterian church of Jamestown, Cloud county, Kansas ; of these fourteen, five still remain in the church, viz : Mrs. Mary E. McCall, Mr. Hugh L. Smith and wife and Mr. David Harnett and wife. In completing the organization, Messrs. J. H. McCall and Hugh L. Smith were elected elders and Messers William M. McCall, J. H. Coy and David Harnett, trustees. William M. McCall was chosen treasurer. At another meeting held in November of the same year, Mr. Smith was ordained an elder, which completed the organization. On the 17th of March, 1884, a meeting was held at which a committee consisting' of William M. McCall, C. I. Gould and David Harnett, were appointed to draft a constitution. At this meeting steps were also taken to secure a building fund. An adjournment was then made until April 7, on 'which date the committee on constitution reported and the report was accepted and adopted, and an application for charter filed. The building committee was not ready to report and was continued. At a special meeting in the fall of 1884, to take action regarding the building of a church, it was decided to proceed and a new committee con- sisting of C. I. Gould, George A. McCall and David Harnett was appointed, to whom was submitted structures of various dimensions, for each of which they were to ascertain the cost of constructing and report at next meeting; they were also instructed to choose a suitable location for the building some- where within the limits of Jamestown. The congregation met February 4, 1885, to hear the report of this com- mittee and it was decided to erect a frame building 32x54 feet, which was done on a lot donated by C. I. Gould in his addition in the north part of town. Reverend H. T. Jackson, late of Stronghurst, Illinois, was chosen as the first pastor soon after the organization and held services each alternate Sabbath, he being pastor of the Concordia Congregation also. These two congregations have been united in one pastoral charge ever since, except a short time in which Flopewell and Fairview congregations were also a part of the same charge. Reverend Jackson was i^astor about three years, after which the congregations were without a pastor until the summer of 1891, when Reverend J. P. Stevenson accepted a call and took up the work. During this long interim a number of ministers were sent to supply the pulpit. Among them were Reverends Wellington ^\''right, Thomas Mc- Cague, D. D., J. G. Torrence, R. G. Campbell, J. ^l. Henderson, W. A. Monks, — McKnight, William Alurchie, M. M. :\Iilford and R. L. 746 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Wilson. Reverend Monks continued in charge of the work for ahnost three years. The time each supply remained on the field A-aries in length and one or two of them were there at different times. Reverends Murchie, Wilson and ]\Iilford were each theological students at the time they were in charge of the congregations and remained only during the summer vacation. Reverend Stevenson was very successful during his pastorate of nearly three }'ears and was highly esteemed by the people of Jamestown and Con- cordia congregations, and it was only at his earnest solicitation on account of failing health that the congregations agreed to release him. He was i-eleased by the Concordia Presbytery at its meeting in Hopewell in April, 1902, and Reverend H. A. Kelsey, a student of the Xenia Theological Sem- inary, Xenia, Ohio, was appointed to supply for the summer. His appoint- ment terminates September 14, 1902. The probability of Mr. Kelsey not returning is a source of regret to his congregations as he is a young man of exceptionally fine talents. His sermons are clear, forceful and replete with soulful thought. THE POMEROY LIBRARY. Following is a brief history of the pride of Jamestown, an institution in which the city takes a great deal of interest : September 8, 1898, eleven of Jamestown's fair women convened at the home of Mrs. Amelia Flartwell for the purpose of organizing a club for promoting study and mutual benefit. An organization was effected and the following officers were installed: Mrs. Mary E. Kelly, president; Miss Alice Fitzgerald, vice-president; Mrs. Annie M. Strain, secretary and treasurer; Mrs. Brotchie, historian. At a subsequent meeting the name "Current Litera- ture and History Club" was unanimously adopted. In December the motto "Know Thy Opportunities" and the club colors, lavender and white, were chosen. Desirous of advancing the best interests of their people the ladies decided no one thing would tend more to promote good or be a more lasting monument in this direction than a public library. Accordingly by an assess- ment of twenty-li-\-e cents per member, a traveling library of fifty volumes was secured from the state secretary for six months use. The front room o\'er the bank was offered, rent free by F. A. Lane. The members alternately taking charge kept the library quarters open Saturday afternoons. Early in November, 1899, a social was held and out of the proceeds Munsey's, McClure's and the Cosmopolitan magazines were subscribed for. Many contributions were made by friends of the enterprise and other entertainments instituted for the purpose of securing funds, hence in May, 1899, they received their first order of books, which numbered forty, and the traveling library was returned. It A^'as decided a room on the ground floor would be more convenient and the club consequently accepted Doctor Hartwell's proffered room rent free, and the library was removed HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 747 to the building south of the drug store, where it remained until their pres- ent quarters were ready for use. At the beginning of the second year, September 28, 1899, through the gift of numerous citizens and members of the club, along with an accumu- lated fund, about seventy-five books and two hundred magazines had been collected. With these results the ladies felt encouraged to persevere in their cherished plan of establishing a free library and reading room. Through the solicitation of Miss Alice Fitzgerald, James Bomeroy, the founder of Jamestown, contributed one hundred dollars to the enterprise in December, 1899. This sum was used as a nucleus for a building fund. Subscriptions were then solicited from citizens of Jamestown and adjacent territory, and people were liberal with their donations of both labor and finances. Whole- sale firms with whom the various merchants dealt were also generous in their assistance, giving in cash and articles to be sold and the proceeds applied — a total of three hundred and fifty dollars. In April, 1900, the club incorporated under the name of "Current Liter- ature and History Club" and on May 19, the instrument was signed by the following charter members : Mary E. Kelly, Ellen L. Nelson, Agnes Fitz- gerald, Lizzie Fitzgerald, Annie M. Strain, Stella Lane and Ellen H. Patton. Like most enterprises this commendable undertaking had its ripples. Shortly after the plans were well matured three of the club's members with- drew, leaving the burden to rest on fewer shoulders, but they assumed the responsibilities with increased zeal, and their efforts have not retrograded, but continued to thrive. ]\Iany who in the early stages of its career prophe- sied that, like Fulton's steamboat project, "it would not move," gradually came with helping hands to further a cause that was bound to succeed. Various societies and organizations in the town have aided materially in support of the establishment that was growing in popularity daily, and the people gen- erally were awakened to the elevating and moulding infiuence it would weild for the good of society. The society holds its meetings weekl}' in the club room of the building and new members have been received. The building is a one-story, two-room structure — library and reading room and a club room — which are so arranged that they may be all thrown together, making an audience room with a seat- ing capacity of over two hundred. I-ectures and various social functions are held here, the library building being the largest audience room in the city, outside the churches. THE HES.SIAN FLY. The following article regarding the Hessian fly and the Chinch bug is clipped from a Deering implement phamplet and will be of more than ordinary interest to wheat growers. The Hessian fly is a fragile, dark-colored gnat or midge about one-eighth of an inch long, resembling closely a small misquito. Its operations extend 748 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. to the entire wheat belt. It also exists in the form of a footless maggot or in what is determined the flax-seed state, appearing more or less hidden in the base of young wheat plants and other grains. The Hessian fly is a wheat insect, but also breeds in rye and barley. There are two principle broods, viz. : A spring brood and a fall brood. There are, however supplemental broods in the spring and fall, especially in the southern wheat areas, but very often in the extreme northern areas there may be but a single annual brood, the progeny of the spring brood sometimes not progress- ing further than the flax-seed state, and so passing the late summer and winter. It is possible, however, that in the northern region an autumn brood may develop in volunteer spring wheat. There are four distinct stages in each generation of the Hession fly : the egg, the maggot or larva, the pupa or flax- seed and the mature winged insect. The eggs are very minute, being usually deposited on the upper surface of the leaf in rows of three to five or more. In the occurrence of the spring brood, the eggs are often deposited beneath the sheath of the leaves on the lower joints. AVhitish maggots are hatched from the eggs in from three to five days and these crawl down the leaf to the base of the sheath and embed themselves between the sheath and the stem, taking the nutriment from the ^\•heat and causing a distortion or enlargement of the point of attack. The fall brood works in young wheat very near or at the surface of the ground. The spring brood develops in the lower joints of the wheat close enough to the ground to escape the harvester. The insect of the spring brood remains in the flax-seed state during mid- summer, yielding the perfect insect for the most part in September. The latter phase of the insect's development into the adult fly is of particular importance because it presents the means of preventing loss by sowing late enough in the fall to avoid infestation. The latest date at which sowing may be attempted with safety will vary with the latitude and even the altitude of a place. The first indication, in the fall, of the insects presence in the wheat manifests itself in a much darker color of the leaves and a tendency to stool out rather freely. This gives the plants a rather healthy appearance, but later those infested turn yellow and die in part or completely. The best preventative is late sowing. Tliis method seems to be the most effective. Burning the stiibble of an infested field, or turning it under by deep plowing has each its advantage. As above set forth, the second or fall brood secrets itself in the lower joints of the wheat and it is in the flax-seed state at harvest time. This brood may be completely destroyed by promptly burning the stubble. Plowing a field, turning under the stubble, and afterward rolling it, has also proved efficacious in burying the pest beyond resurrection. CHINCH BUG. The Chinch bug seems to flourish in seasons of drought, when its per- nicious raids are more apparent and far reaching. The whole wheat belt is the scene of its operations. Wet weather is fatal to it and has often wrought its HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 749 complete destruction. As these natural conditions are ungovernable, it is best to revert to such methods as are practical for allaying if not preventing loss from the scourge. The Chinch bug is a iiative of this counti'y, formerly confining its operations to wild grasses in whose stools it still hibernates. Where there are no wild grasses near, it is known to hibernate beneath such rubbish as straw, matted grass, hedgerows of leaves, and the like. It is especially harmful to wheat. The following table compiled by a United States government entomolo- gist after a careful study made in Kansas, is a clear exposition of the life cycle of the insect. These dates given hold for the middle region ; northward there will be a retardation, southward an acceleration. April I0--20, spring flight from hibernating quarters in the grass stools to wheat fields. April 20-30, in coitn about the roots of wheat. May 1-31, deposition of eggs on wheat beneath the surface of the soil, with young hatching from May 15 to June 15. July 1-15, maturing of the first brood, followed immediately, by the mid- summer flight, if a migration of immature and adult forms has not been previously occasioned by the harvesting of grain or the local failure of the food supply. July 15-30, union of the sexes and deposition of eggs in the soil about late corn and millet, the young of this brood appearing in maximum numbers about August 5 th. August 10 to September 10, maturing of the second brood and partial flight of same to late corn or other green crops if in fields of corn already mature and dying. September 15 to October 15, autumnal flight to grass lands and conceal- ment in the grass stools for hibernation. The most important preventative for practical control of the Chinch bug is to burn over and clean up all waste lands where these insects might congregate, also to burn grass lands, especially those growing wild grass which may have the stooling habit. This should be done in the fall, in order to expose the Chinch bugs that might escape the flames to the unfavorable action of the cold frost of winter. All rubbish in fence corners and hedge-rows should be raked out and burned, removing every possible place of refuge where the bugs might hibernate. THE CHURCH OF SARON. The church of Saron is located about three miles northeast of James- town. It is a Danish Baptist church which was organized July 30, 1871, with the following members: Reverend Nels Nelson, Sr., and wife, Nels Nelson, Jr., and wife, Christine Nelson, John O. Hanson and wife, Car- oline Hanson, Peter C. Nelson and wife, Catherine Nelson and daughter. Trine Nelson, Jonas Goodman and Sophia Jensen. 750 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The organization was incorporated in 1872. Its first pastor was Rever- end Nels Nelson, Sr., and its first clerk John O. Hanson, with Nels Nelson, Jr., treasurer. The first trustees were Nels Nelson, Jr., John O. Hanson and Peter Shott. Before the building of the church edifice the meetings were held altern- ately at the homes of the various members and in. spite of hard times, drouth and grasshoppers they set to work to get a church built and through the kind- ness of Mr. N. M. French, they were donated one acre of ground for church and cemetery purposes, and at once got out rock from the hills and commenced the building. October 14, 1877, this little church building was dedicated without any debt hanging over it, much to the satisfaction of its congregation and from that day have had regular services. Services are conducted in English and Danish, alternately twice a month by the Reverend G. B. Peterson, who has ser\'ed the church for many years regardless of compensation. To the zeal and determination of Nels Nelson, Sr., much credit is due for the accomplishing of this work, the erection of the church building, which is the only one of this denomination in the county. They have a Sabbath school and also young people's meeting. The cemetery in its bosom holds its first beloved pastor, Nels Nelson, as well as a good many of its first workers who helped to make the barren prairie blossom like a garden, where the bufifalo and coyote roamed at will. In the thirt}' years of its existence the following pastors have served : Reverends Nels Nelson, Sr., I.aust Jacobson, A. Sorenson, Christ Lund and G. B. Peterson. HONORABLE DUNCAN McKELLAR. Duncan McKellar spent the earlier years of his life in the city of Lon- don, province of Ontario, Canada, where he was born in 1829. Mr. McKel- lar comes from a long lived race, many of them dying from sheer old age and some almost reaching the century mark. Mr. McKellar has always been associated with public matters; was commissioner in his Canada home for a period of eleven years. In his early life he lived on a farm, then he engaged in the saw mill and lumber business for fifteen years. Prompted by the failing health of his wife, Mr. McKellar came to the new western country in 1870, and settled near Ottawa, in Franklin county, where he farmed two years. Mrs. McKellar was Margaret McCall. The hope of benefitting her health proved futile and she died in May, 1871, leav- ing a son and daughter, Donald P. and Mary A. Donald is a prosperous man, owning a tract of land near Jamestown and is salesman for the J. C. Gibson Granite and Marble Works of Atchison. The daughter is married to A. J. Certain, a produce buyer of Clyde. In May, 1872, Mr. McKellar came to Jewell county and homesteaded HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 75 1 land in the southeast corner of the county. When he took up his claim, the land for miles around was unoccupied, but- within a few months the tide of emigration did not leave a vacant quarter section. Mr. McKellar traveled extensively through the Rocky Mountain region and was on the town site of Leadville when that city was platted, and assisted in building the Harri- son Reduction Works, the first masonry done in Leadville. This was in 1877. He helped to organize, was the first justice of the peace, and was instru- mental in the establishment of the first postoffice in Allan township, Jewell county, Kansas. He circulated the petition and his uncle, Archibald Paul, who died in 1901, was appointed postmaster. It fell to Mr. McKellar to supply a name and he said inasmuch as they were hoping for better things he would suggest West Hope and it was adopted. In 1879 Mr. McKellar returned to Canada and married Mary O'Neil, who is a member of an old Ontario family, her father locating in that prov- ince on the site of London in 1819, and helped to survey the new town. R. H. O'Neil, of the banking firm of R. H. O'Neil & Sons, was a brother. He was a prominent banker there for forty-five years and never held a note in his possession that drew over six per cent interest. He died in 1900. J.' H. O'Neil, another brother, has been in the town of Lucan, Ontario, for almost half a century, and is a wealthy lumberman. By the second marriage Mr. McKellar has a daughter, Frances, who in 1898, in company with her mother, visited Canada, where she took a course in music. She is a bright and talented young woman. She assists her father in the office ; is capable and perfectly conversant with the business. Mr. McKellar sold his homestead in 1893. In 1885 he took his pre- emption right of one hundred and sixty acres in Jewell county, which he still retains. In the same 3'ear he came to Jamestown and established a real estate, loan and insurance business which he continued until the present time with the exception of a short interval when he sold goods on the road. In 1897 he bought the B. F. Gould residence, which he has remodeled, laid walks of flagging, planted trees, etc., making it a desirable residence property. Mr. McKellar is one of the eight men from Kansas appointed by Governor Lewelling %s a delegate to the Gulf Transportation Congress held in Chicago in September, 1892. Mr. McKellar's parents ernigrated to Canada in 1825, settled in the wilderness of woods, cleared the land and lived there continuously until their deaths. They were the parents of eight children, the eldest was a daughter, Catherine, who died in 1863. Mr. McKellar is the eldest of seven sons who grew to manhood. John, is a farmer in Canada. William was a major in the Twenty-sixth Battalion of the British army and saw fifteen years of service in Canada and Scotland. He had retired from the service and was killed by a cable car in Lon- don, Canada, in 1890. It was during a strike, a raw recruit turned a switch and suddenly reversing it the car ran over Major McKellar, cutting his arm 752 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. off, mutilating his breast, and killing- him instantly. He left a wife and two children. He was a division instructor and was sent to various points in Scot- land and Canada. He graduated from the military school in Toronto and in tactics from a military school in England, where he received his com- mission. Archibald was a hardware merchant. During the invasion of 1867 he was captain of a militia and while in this service he caught the cold which caused his death. Four of the AljcKellar brothers were in the battle of Ridge- way. Peter, a blacksmith in Ontario, lives within three miles of the old homestead. Malcom, a lieutenant in the invasion of 1867, was young and tender, unusued to hardships, and like his brother, caught cold from expos- ure, from which cause his death ensued. Dugald died in 1892. Most of Mr. McKellar's ancestry and relatives were in public life and military men. His father was a major in the Canadian rebellion of 1836. Four of his paternal granduncles who were army officers under Napoleon participated in the battle of Waterloo. General Archibald McKellar, mem- ber of Kent county, and minister of agriculture, was a second cousin. Mr. McKellar is a Democrat, but his father and brothers were Tories (equivalent to Republicans), and when he ran for commissioner they all voted against him, but he was elected, receiving twO' to one.. Mr. McKellar is now serving his third term as mayor of Jamestown and has conducted the city's affairs in a satisfactory way. He has been township clerk for a number of years and has held other minor oftices in the city and township. He is a prosperous business man, has a large list of farm and city prop- erties for sale and repi^esents the best insurance companies to be found and enjoys the confidence of his patrons. He is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of fourteen years' standing and has been through all the chairs of the order and is a member of the Encampment. Mr. McKellar and his family are members and workers of the Christian church. At the last convention Mr. McKellar received the nomination on the fusion ticket for probate judge of Cloud county and run with credit to himself and the party that nominated him, but the Republican sentiment defeated him. Had Mr. McKellar been elected he would. have undoubtedly proven an efficient officer. F. A. LANE. No one is entitled to more credit for the building up of Jamestown and that part of Cloud county than F. A. Lane, one of its active citizens and successful financiers. He has borne a prominent part in all enterprises promoted for the improvement of the town and for the development of local resources. The prosperity of Jamestown, one of the best towns of its size in the state is due in no small measure to his business acumen and sagacity, for he uses his influence to induce the people to support their own market and pro- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 755 motes projects that are of permanent value to the place. In a straight busi- ness way, he has assisted more of his friends and fellow citizens than any man in the community. In the great financial crisis Mr. Lane helped many a struggling man to withstand the storm and retain his credit, that would have otherwise gone to the wall. During the years of crop failures he fur- nished many of the farmers witli seed oats, wheat, etc., and allowed them the privilege of repaying it whenever they were able. In this and various other ways he has proven himself a public benefactor. Mr. Lane is of New England birth, having been born in Cambridge,. Maine, in 1845. AVhen thirteen years of age he removed to Cambridge., Massachusetts, and served an apprenticeship with an elder brother, who, was a resident of that city, and who, as a contractor and buijder, erected all of the Harvard University buildings. Mr. Lane worked with him until enlisting in the army in May, 1861. He was a member of the Tenth Maine,, which was subsequently merged into the Seventeenth Maine. He served until May 22, 1865, and after receiving his discharge in Washington, Dis- trict of Columbia, he settled in Boston, Massachusetts, and later engaged very successfully in a general merchandise business at West Quincy, Massa- chusetts. In 1873 he became interested in a wholesale commission house in Bos- ton; but owing to the "panicky" times, did not prosper. In 1876 he decided to try his fortunes in the west and selected Vallisca, Iowa, as a place of resi- dence; but two years later pinned his faith to Kansas, and the thriving little city of Jamestown, by investing his money in that locality, bought two hundred and forty-four 'acres of land, now included in his ranch,, and one year later moved his family there. He worked with a will, is a rustler and prosperity has rewarded his judicious efforts. He is a shrewd manager, a tireless worker, and the outcome of his hustling qualities, coupled with his sagacious judgment is shown in the extent of his possessions and the mag- nitude of his personal interests. His landed estate in Cloud county aggregates one thousand and forty acres of land, situated four miles northwest of Jamestown and is one of the finest ranches in the country. Mr. Lane has been engaged in stock raising and shipping ever since coming into the state. Besides farming and stock inter- ests he conducts a real estate and loan office. He loaned money when it was impossible to borrow it from the banks, hence did much towards the develop- ment of the Jamestown vicinity. He has perhaps loaned more money than any one man in the county. Mr. Lane opened the state of Kansas for the Burlington Insurance Company, and did an immense amount of business in that line for several years. In his hands large financial trusts have been placed and faithfully guarded. He was receiver for the "Barons House" when it failed several years ago, and conducted that popular hotel with profit for seventeen months. He was receiver for the Exchange Bank of Jamestown, that failed in August, 1895; and also closed the business transactions of the Bank of 45 756 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Jamestown. He is also interested in valuable mining stocks. He is vice- president of the Matchless Mining and Milling Company, whose head- quarters are in Denver. Their properties are on Farncombe Hill, in the vicinity of Breckenridge, Colorado. Mr. Lane is a son of Ammi and Eliza (Whitehouse) Lane. His pater- nal grandfather was a sea faring man, and while on one of his distant voy- ages was lost and never heard from. Mr. Lane's father was a farmer and died in Maine in 1863. His mother died in Massachusetts in 1886. He is one of a family of six, three brothers and three sisters. Oscar is a resident and business man of Boston. America, resides in New Haven, and for years has been division superintendent of a railway there. Philena is the wife of A. S. Palmer, of near Taunton, Massachusetts'. The youngest sister is Frances, the widow of E. E. Hall, who died in the "Barons House," Con- cordia, several years ago. Mr. Lane was married to Mary Persis Knight, at Marlboro, Massachusetts. An interesting little romance precedes their marriage. Mrs. Knight had a brother in the Army Square Hospital, Wash- ington, District of Columbia, suffering from a gun-shot wound received in the army. Mr. Lane was there from the same cause, and as if touched by some magic wand the cots of the wounded comrades were placed near each other. The sister came to nurse back to health her wounded brother, George Knight. Her ministrations did not cease with him, however, but were extended to others in that part of the hospital, among them the subject of this sketch. The acquaintance begun in this romantic way, resulted in their marriage very soon after the close of the war. Mrs. Lane died in Quincy, Massachusetts, in April, 1870, leaving an infant son three months old, Frank E. Lane, whose sketch follows this of his father. While F. E. Lane was visiting his mother's people the past summer (1902) he found in their possession the melodeon his mother used to play, and brought the instrument home with him, as a relic of her belongings. It was constructed nearly one-half century ago. Mr. Lane was married to Anna Stuart, in Waterville, Maine. She was a representative of the noted confederate Stuart family, of Petersburg, Virginia, the place of her nativity. Mrs. Lane was a devout southerner, always retaining her southern sympathies. During the siege of Petersburg, she, with other women, sought refuge in other quarters, and made the journey through the Union lines. She had many jewels, for the Stuarts were wealthy people, and during this exodus she carried the diamonds she had cut from their settings, under her tongue, and in this unique manner saved them from being confiscated. Mrs. Lane was a woman of culture and refinement. She finished her education in a northern college and subsequently removed to New York, where she met and was married to Mr. Lane. She always kept in touch with her southern home and the leaders of the South, having personal correspondence with Jefferson Davis, and other celebrated confederates. Mrs. Lane died in the Barons House, Concordia, in December 1887. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 757 Socially, Mr. Lane is a Mason, having joined Rural Lodge, of Quincy, IMassachusetts, in 1878. He is a member of the Jamestown Knights of Pythias lodge, and the Grand Army of the Republic. Politically, he is a stal- wart Democrat and fervently expounds the principles for which the party stands. Mr. Lane's enterprises have been remarkably successful, and he is ranked among the most prosperous men in the county. He is public-spirited and generous, and has given liberally to everything that appeals to him as -worthy. HONORABLE F. E. LANE. The subject of this sketch, F. E. Lane, the present mayor of James- town, is the only son of F. A. Lane, of the preceding sketch. He was born in West Quincy, Massachusetts, on the 16th day of October, 1869. His educational advantages were excellent; beginning with a three years pre- paratory course at West Newton, Massachusetts, in the English and Clas- sical College of that city, followed by a year at the Atchison (Kansas) Institute. In 1887 he became a student at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, pursuing courses in Belles lettres and law, and was graduated from that seat of learj^ing in 1890, with the degree of Bachelor of Laws, and was the same year admitted to practice before the the Indiana bar. In 1891 he went to Concordia, Kansas and was admitted to the Kansas bar, where he ■continued his practice, being associated with Honorable J. W. Sheafor. Mr. Lane was married in Concordia in the fall of 1893, to Miss Stella Chapman, a daughter of E. E. Chapman, a merchant of that city. Mrs. Lane is a graduate of Baker University and is a lady of many accomplish- ments and talented in music. Mr. and Mrs. Lane are the parents of two bright little boys. Wilbur F., and Charles E., the former eight and the latter ,six years of age. In 1895, Mr. Lane accepted a position on the Missouri grain inspection bureau, with headquarters at Kansas City, where he remained until the fall or 1896, when various interests again called him to Kansas. He located at Jamestown and again resumed the practice of law, giving his entire time and attention to his chosen profession, but does not avoid the duties of a public spirited citizen. He is well posted on current affairs and is a capable lawyer. In his political affiliations, Mr. Lane is a Democrat, and has been the recipitent of many honors in local politics. Fraternally, he is a member of Lincoln Lodge No. 27, Knights of Pythias, of Concordia, which order he joined in 1891. He has passed the chairs of his lodge and is its present representative to the Grand Lodge. He is also a member of Concordia Lodge No. 586, of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Mr. Lane maintains a charming residence in Jamestown, where, with his wife and two little sons, — to whom he is deeply attached, — a happy home is represented. 758 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. HONORABLE JOHN O. HANSON. J. O. Hanson is the present postmaster of Jamestown, and one of the most efficient that city ever had. He is one of the old landmarks, having located a homestead two and one-half miles northeast of Jamestown,, when that part of the countr}' was almost unpopulated. The township was. at that time Buffalo, but he is now located in the part included in Grant, and was one of the organizers of that township; the others were, John McCracken, Mr. Woodford and W. T." F. Ansdell, in 1873. Mr. Hanson was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1842. He emigrated to Amer- ica when a young man, and after a brief stay in the city of New York, removed to Chi- cago, and in 1871 came to Cloud county, and still retains and lives on the homestead he located at that time. With the organiza- tion of Jamestown he opened a furniture and undertaking business and was one of the first to erect a building in the town. He was prosperous until the hard years came, and having given credit to so many of his patrons, ■when the panic came he was forced to re- tire and was succeeded by Pence & White, of Jewell City, who were succeeded by vari- ous others, who likewise nearly failed, until Mr. Ratliff embarked under more favorable auspices. IMr. Hanson farmed one year after going out of business and in 1896 traveled for an undertaking house until receiving the appointment of postmaster. Mr. Hanson was married in 1870 to Caroline Hanson, a young woman from his own country, whom he met in Chicago. They were both mem- bers of the same Baptist church in that city, and in this way formed aa acquaintance, which resulted in their marriage. They are the parents of three sons and one daughter, and have five children deceased, three of whom died with diptheria within a week, in Concordia, where they lived two years. Anna, the eldest daughter, is the wife of Reverend H. P. Anderson, a Baptist minister, of Newell, Iowa. William F., is a jeweler and optician. He graduated from the Omaha Optical Institute in March, 1901, and has a stock of optical goods and jewelry in the postoffice building. Elmer is assistant postmaster at Jamestown. Eddie is the youngest son, aged six- teen. Mr. Hanson is a Republican in politics and has served several terms as mayor of his town. He had been a Mason for many years and has held the chair of Master of Jamestown lodge, but has withdrawn his membership. ^Ir. Hanson occupies a comfortable home at the present writing, but in Honorable John O. Hanson. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 759 the primitive days of Kansas, lived like most of the pioneers. He broke •prairie and utilized some of the sod in building a place of habitation, which sheltered them until building a crude house of stone with dirt roof. While -speaking of his career Mr. Hanson remarked in substance. He would not be brave enough to again undergo the hardships entailed upon him and his family to secure a homestead and recited a few of their many experiences : Wife shaking with ague, no well of pure water, neighbors few and far between, no team but oxen, but better off than some of the settlers who drove an ox and a cow yoked together. He had ten acres of promising corn, and during the noontime hour, while resting and partaking of the frugal meal, he heard a great roaring, whirring noise, and upon looking for the cause found the "hoppers" had arrived in droves of millions, filling the -earth, skies and every available space, and by two o'clock not a single vestige of vegetation nor a blade of his field of corn was left, not even leaving a small garden of thriving tobacco plants. In his early life Mr. Hanson learned the carpenter's trade and upon the occasion of the following incident he was building a house for a neighbor, Mr. Iverson, who lived near the Republican river. He returned home one night after having walked from his place of labor, several miles distant, foot- sore and weary, to find his family for some unknown cause had deserted their home. The Indians had committed many murderous deeds, and from the appearance of things, the empty beds that bad been slept in, the disorder ■generally prevailing, showed a hasty flight or exit had been made. Mr. Hanson at once repaired to a neighbors and found the same con-- dition existing there, beds vacated, clothes scattered about, etc. He then went to the camp of a brother-in-law, who had homesteaded one mile north, but were still living in their wagons. His kinsmen were new in the countr}-, -consequently greatly alarmed concerning the Indians, and had been told that when the savages made a murderous attack they dressed up in fantastic style and made a great noise. As they retired for the night they were serenaded in the distance by a pack of hungry, howling coyotes ; imagined they were Indians and in their fright and excitement routed and gathered all tlieir neighbors together for protection against the prospective attack. When Mr. Hanson ■arrived at the Christensons he found the fugitives congregated together and the men with their guns had established an arsenal. Although chagrined, Mr. Hanson was amused at their predicament. Another brother-in-law, James Nelson, however, saved his own life and the li\'es of his family perhaps, at the same time Miss Wliite was captured, by pointing a rusty revolver at the savages. Mr. Hanson has experienced many of the quicksands and vicissitudes of life, but is now on a solid foundation and lives in a comfortable home which lie built in 1880, and made more commodious by an addition in 1886. He also owns the postoffice building and a stock of books and stationery, which nets him a considerable income. His sons are prepossessing and manly young men, who will evidently make a success in life, and like their father, good -citizens and honorable men. 76o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. • REVEREND C. E. CARPENTER. A series of biographical sketches of the Jamestown citizens would not be- complete without a tribute to the Reverend C. E. Carpenter, who has, per- haps, done more good in a spiritual way than any resident of their town. He fills an important work in many fields of labor. He is a faithful minister of the gospel and achieves much good in his modest, sincere, every-day life. He is. one of the most useful individuals in the community. If there are "two souls with but a single thought, two hearts that beat as one," that are to be united in the holy bonds of matrimony. Reverend Carpenter's services are sought to invoke the divine blessing. It is he who is called to minister at the bedside of his fellow citizens in the closing hours of life, to soothe, comfort and alleviate the sorrowing friends and later to officiate at the funeral rites. There are few families in the town or community that have not been associated with Reverend Carpenter is one or all of these conditions and his readiness and willingness in performing these duties have endeared him to his friends. Reverend Carpenter is a native of the state of New York, born in Orange county in 1852. For ten years prior to coming to Kansas in 1878 he lived in Peekskill, on the Hudson river. After several years devoted to farming three miles south of Jamestown, he left the farm in charge of his son and for twelve years was identified with the Doctor Baker Medicine Company as traveling salesman. Two years he was employed on rural mail route No. 2, running out of Jamestown. September i, 1903, he became associated in a general merchandise business under the firm name of Carpenter & Carroll, and being well and favorably known, they are building up an excellent trade. During the greater part of his life Reverend Carpenter has alternated his time with' the ministry and evangeli- cal work. For two years he has filled the pulpits of Scottsville, Macyville and Fairview. He is not sectarian but worships with all denominations. Reverend Carpenter was married in 1872 to Miss Jennie Tompkins, of New York. Her father owned a farm along the Hudson, near Croton Landing, where Mrs. Carpenter was born. Their five children living are: Walter J., their only son, who is a rural mail carrier; Elizabeth, the wife of Frank Vincent a farmer three miles southwest of Jamestown; Flora, wife of Perry Grout,, an employe in the store of Jolui Lundblade; Alice and Wini- fred are young women at home, the former assists in the store. JOHN O. STRAIN. John O. Strain, the subject of this sketch, is a son of the late Judge Strain, who was one of the best known and most efficient jurists of Cloud county. Mr. Strain is the youngest of four brothers and was born in Mon- mouth, Illinois, in 1865. He came with his parents tO' Cloud county in 1871, and located in Concordia, where they lived until the death of his father, in. January, 1880. His mother before her marriage, was Miss Nancy Y. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 761 Brown. After Judge Strain's demise she made her home with her son, the subject of this sketch, until her death, in February, 1896. The eldest son, M. M., occupies a position in the hardware store of his brother, John O. George is a salesman for the Monarch Manufacturing Company, and resides in Chester, Nebraska. J. A., who bears his father's name, has made a clerical record of considerable prominence. He was one of the charter members of the Presbyterian church of Concordia, and until recently was engaged in missionary work in Ecuador, South America. On account of failing health and a desire to educate his children, he recently returned to the United States and accepted a position as bookkeeper with the A. J. Harni Hardware Company of Atchison. J. O. Strain was educated in the Concordia high school and lived on Interior View of John O. Strain's Hardware Store. his father's farm near that city, until coming to Jamestown in 1884. March I, 18^8, he established a hardware and implement business in the latter named place, on a capital' of one thousand five hundred dollars, and during the panic of 1893, practically lost everything he invested. About this time the strip was opened in the Indian Territory and many who owed him re- moved to that quarter and left their bills unsettled. He suffered financial losses but the business never completely collapsed; he managed to keep his head above the tide of misfortune and in 1896, began to prosper, increase and strengthen until he gained a solid footing once more. In March of 1902, he formed a partnership with J. D. Hills, who, with his family, came from Carthage, Illinois, and became citizens of Jamestown. In February, 1903, the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Strain again assuming full control. His stock consists oi shelf- and heavy hardware, farm imple- ments, wagons, buggies, pumps and machine oils. He operates a tin shop 762 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. in connection, employing a competent workman and manufactures steel tanks. He is agent for the Acme, Champion and McCormick harvesting machinery; the Canton line of agricultural implements; the Mitchell, Bain, and Fish wagons; Canton, Rhodes and Carmine buggies; Fairbanks, Dandy and Woodmanse windmills. Their trade in the latter line averages from two to three car loads annually. In 1901, they sold fifty-five harvesting machines; their sales amounting to $60,000, and exceeded that number in 1902. Mr. Strain has been very successful in his sales of buggies the past year (1903), having sold about seventy-five vehicles. In 1902 he bought the building and machinery of the Fitzgerald imple- ment house, who retired from that business. He established a branch store in Norway, Republic county, and since opening a business there, the first of the present year (1903) his trade has fully justified the movement. Mr. Art Ledbetter, formerly with him in Jamestown, has the management of the Norway store. The late W. S. Tipton worked for Mr. Strain in the capacity of tinner for fourteen years, dating back to the opening of his hardware house in Jamestown. Mr. Tipton was an old resident of Cloud county. He died in December 1902, and was buried in the cemetery of Highland church, Sum- mit township, on Christmas day. The present tinner, Ed. Flannery, formerly of Beloit, was connected with the hard-\Vare house of W. T. Branch, of that city. Mr. Strain was married April 8, 1891, to Miss Anna M. Wherry, of .Smith Center, a daughter of D. G. Wherry, a Smith county farmer. Mr. and Mrs. Strain are the parents of three children: Elsie May, aged nine years; Helen, who was named for Helen Kellar, the blind girl, is aged seven, and John A., a bright and interesting boy, aged three. Mrs. Strain served as mayor one term, as mentioned elsewhere in the history pertaining to James- town. She taught school successfully for several years; one year in Republic county and was a member of the faculty of the Jamestown schools in 1890. Mr. Strain is a Republican and takes an interest in political affairs. He has been a member of the council, of the school board and has held various township offices for several years. They are members, regular attendants and among the most active workers of the Presbyterian church. The Strains are- all men of high moral standing, industrious, enterprising and contribute to every movement instigated for the best interests of their town or county. Mr. Strain and his family occupy a pleasant home and are among the best citizens of Jamestown. HONORABLE ANDREW R. MONTGOMERY. One of the hale-fellows-well-met, of Jamestown, is A. R. Montgomery, the elevator man. He has been one of the most prominent citizens for fifteen consecuti\-e years, with the exception of one year spent in Clyde, where he owned and operated the livery stable now owned by E. Peck. His first nine HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 763 years in Jamestown were associated with his brother James, in the mercan- tile business now owned by McGaugh Brothers. In 1879, be bought the Pence & White stock of furniture and after a successful period of one year, sold to R. Y. Tidball. During this interval he wait to Clyde. In 1898, he built the large elevator where he now holds forth, and is ■one of the most entensive grain, dealers in the county. Besides his grain interests he retails large quantities of coal, and buys and ships horses. His elevator has a capacity for twelve thousand bushels. In 1901, he handled about two hundred and fifty thousand bushels of wheat. He at all times pays the highest market price for grain and has made a success of this enterprise. Mr. Montgomery has handled horses and mules for ten years, averaging about one hundred head annually. He keeps a buyer out from August until May. Mr. Montgomery is a native of Adams county, Ohio, born in 1858. His father is A. H. Montgomery, one of the reliable farmers of the Macy- -ville locality, and an old settler of Cloud county, (see sketch.) Mr. Montgomery was married in 1880, to Carrie Evans, of Ottumwa, Jefferson county, Iowa. She was a daughter of the late Dr. Evans. To this union have been bom six children, viz. : Mamie, the eldest daughter, has been a successful Cloud county teacher three years. She is a ■graduate of the Jamestown high school. Ethel, employed as a clerk by Mc- Gaugh Brothers, is also a graduate of the Jamestown high school. Richard, aged sixteen years is still in school and assists his father during vacation. Carrie, aged thirteen, a graduate of the Jamestown high school of June, 1902. and Lawrence, aged eight. The happiness of the family circle was shadowed by the death of a beautiful little daughter — Merril, aged six years — in tjie autumn of 1902. The Montgomerys have a pleasant home, the Owens residence property, which they purchased in 1901. Mr. Montgomery is a Republican first, last ■and all the time. Is public spirited, has been mayor of his town, a member •of the council for several }'ears and an efficient member of the school board. He has been associated with the Masonic order for fourteen j^ears, the Inde- pendent Order of Odd Eellows for nine years, is a member of the Modem Woodmen of America and Eastern Star. GEORGE M. HARTWELL, M. D. Dr. Hartwell cast his lot with the destiny of Jamestown in the second year of its birth, July 16, 1879, which was practically his first field in the medical profession. Dr. Hartwell is a native of Hancock county, Illinois, born in 1854 at the little station of Bowen, where he met with an accident (thrown from a Tiorse), which caused him the loss of a leg when about twelve years of age. ■He received his earlier education at the village school of Bowen. In 1874, he 764 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. with several of his young companions, began reading medicine in the office of Dr. Kelley, of Bowen, without any serious intentions of continuing. The others all dropped out, but Dr. Hartwell proceeded to pursue the study of physics, and in 1876 entered the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, where he graduated March 27, 1878. Within four months after arriving in Jamestown, he opened a drug store, the town being illy supplied in that line. He has the only drug store in the city at the present time. The Hartwells are of Welch origin. Dr. Hartwell's father was a native of New York, but in his early manhood moved to Ohio and thence to Illinois, where he lived until 1876, when the family came to Marshall county, Kansas. He died in Jamestown in 1897. Dr. Hartwell's mother died when he was- about four years of age. He is one of eight children, two of the older brothers died of diseases in the army, brought on by exposure and hardships. Mrs. Hartwell was Miss Amelia Resing, of Pottawatomie county,. Kansas. Their family consists of two children, Eva, aged eleven and George, aged nine. They lost a little son, Clarence, aged sixteen by accident in the winter of 1900. Tie was hunting and was shot through the foot by the acci- dental discharge of his gun. Lockjaw ensued and he died a week later. Dr. Hartwell is extensively interested in farming and stock raising. He has a farm of one hundred and ninety acres near Jamestown, the Kiggan homestead, one of the old farms of the county and one hundred and twenty acres one and one-half miles west of Jamestown, in the Buffalo creek valley. Both of these farms are bottom land. He has a pasture farm one mile south of Jamestown, where he keeps a herd of about fifty head of native cattle. Shorthorn and Galloway breeds. ELMER E. KIEFER. Elmer E. Kiefer, the subject of this sketch, is a native of Mercer county, Pennsylvania, born near Neshanock, in 1867. When' eleven years of age he came overland with his parents to Kansas and settled in Jewell county. He was reared on a farm, in the meantime receiving a common school education, and when he attained the age of twenty years, entered the State University at Lawrence, Kansas, and graduated from that school in 1889. He then engaged in teaching in the Jewell county schools and after several years of successful work he completed a teacher's course in the Salina Normal. In 1807 'le became associated with Air. Carroll, of the present firm of Carpenter & Carroll, and established a general mercandise business. In the summer of 1902 he sold his interest to Reverend Carpenter and has since been engaged in clerking. Mr. Kiefer is a son of George W. Kiefer, an old veteran of the army of the Potomac. He served in Company C, Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers, over three years. He received a gunshot wound in the left side, from which he is still a sufferer. He participated in many battles and was HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 765. an inmate of Libby Prison a short time. He was discharged in 1864, just prior to the battle of Cedar creek. George VV. Kiefer was a resident of Jewell county for many years. He is now retired and lives in Lawrence,. Kansas. Our subject's mother was Salina Lienberger; her grandfather was a German emigrant and settled in Mercer county, Pennsylvania, in an early day, and lived to be almost a centenarian. Mr. Kiefer's brother, W. L., is- also a successful teacher and a former principal of the Jamestown schools. The other members of the family are, Daisy, Mrs. Widrig, of Jewell county;. Norman and Cecil Darline. Mr. Kiefer was married in 1898, to Miss Plelen Krom, of Beloit, Kansas. Mrs. Kiefer was also a teacher, having been associated with the Mitchell county schools for several years and also taught at Harwood, North Dakota. Her father, Peter Krom, was a soldier in the Civil war. He served with a Wisconsin regiment. Mr. Krom emigrated to Kansas in an early day and lives on the land he homesteaded, near. Beloit. Politically, Mr. Kiefer is a Democrat. He is a member of the Jamestown board of education, and one of the councilmen. Socially he is a Mason and a member of th& order of Woodmen of America. Himself and wife were members and active workers of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Kiefer is assistant superin- tendent of the Sabbath school and is trustee and steward in the church. The Keifer's occupy a pleasant cottage home and are ranked among James- town's most esteemed citizens. CARL E. AXELSSON. C. E. Axelsson is a son of Axtel Peterson, taking the Christian name of his father for his surname, as is the custom in their country. Axtel Peterson died a half centtiry ago in Sweden, never liaving left his native land. C. E. Axelsson was born in Kalmer, Sweden, in 1840. Li 1869 he came to America and settled in Brooklyn, New York, where he lived ten years.. April 25, 1879, he emigrated to Kansas and after a stay of three months in Mitchell county, came to Jamestown, when there were but few houses, and at the beginning of the building of the railroad. He bought lots near where the Central Hotel is located, returned for his family and has since made Jamestown his home. Mr. Axelsson is a shoemaker by trade. In 1887 he opened an exclusive shoe store, buying the building he now occupies in 1889. He had learned the trade in Sweden, where he served as apprentice about six and one-half years, in the meantime learning every branch of the trade, cutting, fitting etc. Before coming to America he had worked at Stockholm, Hamburg, Germany and Hull, England. While in Brooklyn he became one of a corporation in a boot and shoe manufacturing establishment, where he remained six years. Mr. Axelsson is a linguist, reading and speaking several different languages : Swedish, German, English, Danish and Norwegian. In 1874 he was married to Christine Smith, a native of Schleswig, Danish America.. 766 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Their family consists of seven children. Mary Christine has occupied the position of book-keeper in a candy store in Chicago for six years. She is one of the leading employes of this large concern, practically at the head of the business, owing to the continued illness of her employer. John A., was for three years a brakeman on the Central Branch railroad, but is now located in Illinois, near Chicago. Caroline is taking a course in telegraphy in the oty of Chicago. Alma is also in the same school. Otto, Carl, and Esther, aged thirteen, eleven and eight years respectively. In politics Mr. Axelsson is a Republican, and was a member of the first city council in Jamestown. The family are members of St. Luke's Lutheran church. JOHN KELLY John Kelly, of Jamestown, the cashier and one of the principal stock- liolders of the Jamestown Bank, has been associated with the people of Cloud ■county and \-icinity since March, 1879. For several years he was a promi- nent educator and accounted one of the most successful. Mr. Kelly's place of nativity is Lackawanna county, Pennsylvania, where he was born on a farm near Scranton, and received the rudiments of his educa- tion there. When he came to Cloud county in 1879, he began his career as teacher in district No. 50. After teaching one term he entered the State University, took a special course for one year and resumed his school work ; taught one year in Re- public county and three years in dis- trict No. 8. During this period he was chosen one of the board of ex- aminers, discharging the duties of this office for four years and in- structed in the Cloud county Insti- tute for three sessions. From 1885 until 1890, Mr. Kelly was principal of Jewell county, Kansas. oan department of the firm of John Kelly. of the Jewell city schools He next assumed control of the farm ■Caldwell & Peterson, of Concordia, until 1893, when he was elected cashier of the Citizens' National Bank. His services were evidently satisfactory, for he received successive promotion. The world is crowded with men ready and willing to embrace every opportunity for money making, hence to obtain and hold a position of merit is a real compliment to a man. Three years HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ib-p later, December 1896, Mr. Kelly was elected president of the Bank of Beloit, which consolidated with the First National Bank of that city in March, 1898.- He resigned his position wath this banking house to establish the State Bank of Jamestown. Mr. Kelly was married in 1890, to Mary E. Pratt, who was one of his- corps of teachers in the Jewell city schools. Mr. Kelly is a son of Bernard Kelly, a native of Ireland. He died in 1892. His mother was Ellen Scarry, also of Irish birth, but for years a resident of Scranton, Pennsylvania, until her death, December 3, 1902. Mr. Kelly is one of six children, who are all living in Scranton. Mr. Kelly and a brother, who died in Texas, are the only members of the family who came west. Mr. Kelly takes an active part in politics, votes the Republican ticket, but in local elections supports the best men^ — men of honor and integrity. He- is serving on his third year as treasurer of the school board of Jamestown, and is a valuable and conservative officer. Mr. Kelly began life in Cloud county with small capital and has developed into one of the leading business men of the county. Personally he is congenial and very popular among his friends. J. AUSTIN MARSHALL. The subject of this sketch, J. Austin Marshall, a son of Edward ^Marshall (see sketch), is a Kansas product, having been born in Cloud county, August. 1st, 1873. He enjoys the distinction of having first seen the glimmer of day in a dugout on his fathers homestead in Oakland township, when there was no lumber to be had unless hauled from Junction City, or other places equally distant. Mr. Marshall remained on the farm until he had attained his twentieth year. Aspiring to newspaper work he entered the printing office of his brother, John Marshall, then owner and publisher of the Concordia Daylight. Possessing a somewhat restless spirit, coupled with a desire for adventure and excitement, the mysteries of hypnotism had an attraction for our subject, and after serving one year of apprenticeship iii his brother's office, he pene- trated the mysterious workings of hypnotism, became an adept in the science, and toured the states of Kansas and Arkansas in this vocation. His enter- tainments called forth many interesting newspaper comments and his fame as a hypnotist spread far and wide. After three years of traveling he re- turned to Concordia, and again entered the printing office of his brother. Possessing considerable journalistic talent, he interested some of Concordia's politicians and prominent citizens, who backed him in a political scheme and through their influence he purchased the Daylight of Marshall & Jones, which he ran very successfully, but subsequently consolidated with the Empire. He later sold his interest to T. A. Sawhill and established the Concordia Press. Mr. Marshall employed good talent and for several months the Press was one of the county's leading papers. 768 HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Early in 1902 he became interested in the Jamestown Optimist, reheving the editor, A. B. ColHns, a pohtical aspirant, that he might canvass the •county in the interest of the office which he sought. He continues with the Optimist, which has a large subscription list and good advertising patronage from the Jamestown merchants. In 1900 Mr. Marshall's name was presented to the Republican county convention for the office of clerk of the court, but was defeated by four votes. He did not make a canvass of the county, nor was it announced that he was a candidate until a few days prior to the holding of the convention. Though not permitted to become a candidate again in 1902, he took an active part in the campaign, and did all he could in a personal way, and through the columns of his paper to promote the success of his party by electing its ■candidates. Mr. Marshall was married in 1896 to Mabel, a daughter of S. B. Glidden, one of Concordia's old citizens. Editor Marshall has recently sold his paper, the Jamestown Optimist, to Mr. Kimmal, a local photographer of Jamestown. HONORABLE O. W. F. WILCOX. O. W. F. Wilcox came to Kansas in 1879, and farmed rented land south ■of Concordia. Three years later he bought the Chris Mosburg homestead, ■six miles south of Jamestown on Whites creek, where he lived two years, sold and located in Jamestown, following the occupation of clerk. In 1896, he bought the H. H. Harris stock of stationery, added other lines and converted it into a racket store, including canned goods, tobacco, candies, fruits and :sumnier drinks. Mr. Wilcox is a native of Branch county, Michigan, born in 1840. When fourteen years of age he moved A\ith his parents to Hardin county, Iowa, and when he arrived to manhood enlisted in Company B, Eleventh Iowa Infantry, the first year of the war. He served two enlistments, remain- ing until the close. He was slightly wounded twice, wels in St. Louis hospital t\\o months as the result of a wound he received in the battle of Shiloh. He ■saw active service and was in the battle of Corinth, Vicksburg, Atlanta, with Sherman on his march to the sea, and in all the battles with the western -department. After the war he returned to Iowa and was married in 1866, to Lavina Burghdef. In his earlier life Mr. Wilcox had learned the shoe maker's trade which he followed until coming to Kansas. To Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox Tia\-e been born eleven children, all of whom but one are living, and all but ■one living in or near Jamestown. The oldest son is William, who is foreman in the shops of the American ^^'■indmill Manufacturing Company, and has been in their employ about three years. Otto F., is proprietor of one of the neatest little barber shops in the county. The shop is small in dimensions, but elegant in point of fixtures HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 769 and equipment. He is married to Ethel Andrews, of Jamestown. They are the parents of one child, Lucile. Rosa, wife of William Jenkins, a carpenter of Jamestown. They are the parents of five children : Carl, Ray, Nellie, George and Willie. The second daughter, Nellie, is a milliner by trade. Centennial, is the wife of Bert Schell, a farmer near Jamestown. They are the parents of two little •daughters, Esther and Li la. Kate, wife of John Oyler, a carpenter of Jamestown. They have one child, a little son, Max. Roy, in the shop with his brother Otto. Fred, a boy of sixteen and the two younger children, Mary and Charlie. Mr. Wilcox votes the Republican ticket and takes an active interest in the local affjiirs of his town. He served as mayor one term, police judge several times, and for several years was a member of the council. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, and has been post commander at various times. He is a member of the Sons and Daughters of Justice. The maternal ancestors of Mr. Wilcox were early New England settlers. His mother was a close relative of Lorenzo and Neal Dow. His paternal ancestors were of Irish and Dutch origin, and among the early New England settlers. Mr. Wilcox owns a comfortable residence and the building he occupies as a store. HONORABLE JOHN E. LUNDBLADE. The subject of this sketch, John E. Lundblade, of Jamestown, Kansas, is a prominent citizen and leading merchant of that little city, and a man who has had a remarkably successful career. Mr. Lundblade began at the bottom of the ladder, but by good management and close application has built up a business that does credit to himself, the town, and the sur- rounding country. Mr. Lundblade began his career as a clerk in the widely known Fair, one of the best retail stores in Chicago. After one year he came to Cloud county and considered it a fortunate move, when in 1878, he cast his lot with the enterprising people of Jamestown. He acepted a position with S. Taylor and later with William Taugman, as dry goods salesman, the latter firm being in the building Mr. Lundblade now occupies. In 1891, with a capital stock, of one thousand dollars, Mr. Lundblade opened a general merchandise store. In 1891 the volume of business in- creased to the extent of demanding more room, and he remo\-ed to the Elniff building. In 1896, this in turn became too crowded and he occupied in connection the adjoining building, cutting two archways between, making a room 48x70 feet in dimensions — with a basement — ^vhich is filled with one of the best selected stocks of goods in the county, consisting of dry goods, clothing, boots, shoes, groceries and queensware, invoicing fully one thousand seven hundred dollars. This stock is turned more than t\\ice annually. Mr. Lundblade is a native of Sweden, born in the city of Jenshopin, in 1862. When seven years of age he came with his parents to America, 770 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. and located in Bucklin, Missouri, where they resided about eleven years and where he received a common school education. In 1878, his father, Charles Lundblade, moved to Republic county, Kansas, where he is a prosperous: farmer, living near Kackley. Mr. Lundblade's mother died in Missouri in 1870, leaving three sons, all of whom are living. Al, a farmer near James- The Handsome Cottage Home of Mr. and Mrs. John E. Lundblade. town, and Robert, a farmer of Republic county. By a second marriage there were three children, two of whom are li\'ing, viz. : Ellen, wife of Leonard Nelson, of Republic county, and the youngest son, Joe, lives at home. Mr. Lundblade owns a well improved farm two miles south of James- town, which he bought about three years ago. He also owns some good real estate in Jamestown, and one of the most desirable homes in the county. A windmill furnishes irrigation for a fine lawn, which is ^Nlr. Lundblade's especial pride. His home is a modern cottage elegantly furnished and pre- sided over by Mrs. Lundblade, who was Miss Georgia Mercer, whom he married in 1886. Mrs. Lundblade is a lady of elegant tastes and a helpmate in the truest sense of the word. Politically, Mr. Lundblade is a Democrat, has served two terms as mayor of Jamestown, and is a member of the present city council; was postmaster four years under Cleveland's second administration. He is a prominent Mason, a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the K. of P. He has been one of the directors of the Jamestown bank since its organization. The magni- tude of business done by Mr. Lundblade evidences his excellent ability as a manager and financier. Pie is still a young man and bids fair to become one of the foremost merchants in the county. The Five Gould Brothers. ^; i ■; HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 775 CHARLES IRVING GOULD. ^ '"- . C. I. Gould is one of the fathers and founders of the city of James- town. His hneage traces back to Abraham Gould of the same line as Jay Gould, the late railroad magnate, whose gifted daughter. Miss Helen, is known the world over for her many charities and as an angel of mercy to the sufiFering poor. Abraham Gould, who signed the charter for the state of Coa- necticut, was Mr. Gould's great-great-grandfather. His mother was- also' of distinguished ancestry tracing a direct line to General Nathaniel Greene,, of Revolutionary fame. Orrin P. Gould, father of our subject, was born in the state of Connec- ticut. His ancestry was of English birth. His brother was captain of a com- pany in the war of 1812, and was one of the Americans who were defending Buffalo, New York, when they painted logs black to give the enemy the im- pression they had numerous and heavy cannon. After serving during the entire war he returned to his home and entered land in the Holland Purchase Reserve near Batavia, New York. Mr. Gould's father when a small boy,, came with his parents to western New York, where he lived until the subject of this sketch was three years of age, when they removed to Michigan. Here his mother's health failed and he returned to New York, remaining until she- fitUy recovered. In 1869, they emigrated to Kansas and homesteaded land near Blue Rapids and in 1878 removed to Cloud county, where they were both deceased; his mother in 1885 and his father in 1893. Mr. Gould was born in Batavia, New York, in 1851. He received his education in the Rural Seminary, East Pembrook, New York, and later came west with his parents. In June, 1870, in company with three other young men he came to Cloud county on an ox cart and homesteaded the farm on which he now lives on the 19th day of November, a portion of which is the present site of Jamestown. He gave the railroad company one- half interest in sixty acres of land to build the depot and plat the town. His residence, a comfortable dwelling, is within the city limits. Pie little thought when he filed on this claim that the future would build up a prosperous town and as for a railroad, it was looked for, but no one knew the course it would take. Only a few houses were in sight; government troops were encamped in ■ their barracks at Fort Sibley and Concordia was unknown. Mr. Gould did some splendid soliciting for the railroad company in the different townships in Jewell county. For calling elections to vote bonds for the ex- tension of Jewell Branch, Major Downs, general manager of the Central Branch of the Union Pacific railroad, complimented him for his success in a substantial manner. Mr. Gould has always been a tiller of the soil, finding many resources in its depths. He owned and operated a thresher for six seasons before the use of traction engines. His present machine cost him the neat little price of $2,800, purchased in 1901. Mr. Gould is one of five children, air boys and all living. Two brothers reside in Jamestown ; Edwin A. is a far- 46 J 74 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. mer near Jamestown; Baird T., manages the P. V. elevator at Hollis, his family residing in Jamestown ; David G., of Concordia, manager of the P. \' elevator; ;\Iyron H., a farmer in Iowa, removed from Kansas six years ago. Mr. Gould was married in 1875, to Lucy Webster of Southfield, Massa- chusetts, -who in company with her parents came to Blue Rapids where she met Mr. Gould and became his wife. Her father was a soldier and enlisted in the 49th Massachusetts. His company was sent south into the swamps of Louisiana, where he contracted a serious illness from climatic changes "vvhich was the direct cause of his death; like many thousands of other brave boys, he left a beautiful and happy home never to return to its en- joyments, but answered his "last roll call" and sleeps beneath the canopy of the little green tent which nature provides for every soldier. I'o Mr. and Mrs. Gould eight children have been born, seven of whom are living. Olive D., wife of C. W. Nelson, a farmer living two miles north and two miles west of Ames. Webster O., an expert traction engineer and a young man highly respected throughout the community. Arthur C, by profession a school teacher on his second term. He taught last year north- west of Clyde in District No. 15. He is employed this year in District No. 64. He is a graduate of the Jamestown high school. Irving H., a young man Avho has not quite reached bis majority is living at home, a valuable assist- ant to his father in the duties of the farm, and an exemplary young man. Florence L., her father's housekeeper, who was deprived of a mother's train- ing and good counsels when a child, having just passed her seventh birth- day, has developed into a matronly young woman assuming the responsibili- ties of the household affairs with credit for one of her years. Benjamin and Jay, the two youngest children, are school boys. Mr. Gould is a member, trustee and steward of the Methodist Episcopal church. He has been superintendent of the Sunday school for two years. In 190T, was elected president of the International County Sun- day School Association. In the convention notes of the Miltonvale Record, where the society convened, the following mention is made: "The retir- ing (but untiring) president, C. I. Gould, was surely the right man in the right place." To his devotion, energy and personal efforts as a church worker is due much of the success of the church and the Sunday school which is one of the best in the county. His heart is in his work and he feels he has faithfully done his duty for the best interests of the congregation. Mr. Gould is a member in good standing of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, joining the order two years ago, also a member of the Sons and Daughters of Justice, the Pyramids and the Threshers' National Protective Association, a comparatively new order whose object is to elevate and better the conditions of dealers and operators. He is a good, fair and square Re- publican, and served as deputy sheriff with Morrisette, the last year of his term in office. He has ben a member of the council for two years, also served a term several years ago. Mr. Gould has been an indefatigable church and Sunday school worker and is a highly respected citizen. His sons are intelligent young men of excellent repute. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 775 WILLIAM R. ANSDELL. William R. Ansdell, who came to Cloud county in the year 1870 stands as one of the "tried and true," and after being weighed in the balance has not been wanting. Upon his arrival in the "garden spot of the world," he selected the homestead whereon he now resides, but the home of then and ,now bears little resemblance. "The prairie shall blossom like the rose," is most surely fulfilled at the Ansdell farm. Mr. Ansdell's father, Freder- ick F. S. Ansdell was a rnan well known to all the old settlers of the county as having established the first store in 1870, which was the only one in the vicinity until the city of Jamestown was founded, and as that seemed a good location for business he was one of the first to open an extensive general merchandise store; almost simultaneously Myron M. Strain and H. W. Hansen were competitors for the town and country trade. F. F. S. Ansdell was a native of England and upon attaining his major- ity emigrated to America. He spent a few months in New York City where he met and married Miss Mary E. Patterson, and emigrated to Wisconsin when that state was sparsely settled; Indians committed many depreda- tions and wolves made the night hideous with their blood-thirsty howls. Here their eight children were born, grew and thrived making the silent woods ring with their glad and happy shouts, laughter and song. Five of these children are still living. Their nearest neighbor was six miles dis- tant and as the telephone system was not in efl;ect those days the women of the family could not hang over the back fence to have a bit of gossip nor could a choice morsel be transmitted over the 'phone. In 1870, Mr. Ansdell decided to emigrate to Kansas for two reasons; •the first one to secure more land for his three growing sons and to seek a more salubrious climate. He found a number of claims taken but only a few settlers living on them. His two sons, William R. and Henry M., and James Carter are the only citizens remaining that were in the township at the time of his arrival. Mr. .lAnsdell was one of the representative men of the county, but was not a politician. He was the second postmaster of Jamestown and also postmaster at Arena, Iowa county, Wisconsin, during the war and until he removed to Kansas. Mr. Ansdell was the first station-agent at Jamestown. Was appointed and held the position several months without salary, in the j-neantime not selling many tickets. Several years afterward he put in a claim to the railroad company and they remitted the usual salary paid to agents without hesitation or comment. He was deceased in 1887, and his wife in 1893. William R. Ansdell was married in 1884, to Miss Ida E. Prince, of Con- cordia, Kansas, who is a sister of Mrs. "Jack" Billings. They are the parents -of six children, four of whom are living; Richard, a young man seventeen yeai's of age is on his last year in the Jamestown high school preparatory to taking a business course in the Great Western Business College, of Con- •cordia, Kansas, one of the most thorough schools in the state. Fred, aged 776 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. fourteen, George, nine years of age, and JNIargaret, a winsome little daughter of eighteen months, complete the family. Mr. Ansdell owns two hundred and thirty-iour acres of excellent land all first and second bottom, principally first, Buffalo creek intersecting the north eighty. His crops consist principally of wheat and alfalfa, seldom av- eraging less than t^venty-five bushels of wheat to the acre. He considers alfalfa a leading crop as it brings him more remunerative and quicker returns than any other branch of farming in which he has experimented. After cutting and garnering three crops in one season he has had a field of ten bush- els per acre of seed which netted him four dollars per bushel. In politics Mr. Ansdell is a Republican. He has held a number of township offices and is now chairman of the central committee of the Republican party and has filled that office several terms at different times. He is a member of the Inde- pendent Order of Odd Fellows of twenty-two years standing, a member of the Rebecca lodge, an Ancient Free & Accepted Mason of twenty-four years membership and belongs to the Beloit Comimandery. Mr. Ansdell justly prides himself on his well improved acres even though it has taken years of toil to develop this fine farm with its comfortable house and commodious barn which have supplanted the primitive dugout and sheds. Mrs. Ansdell is a woman of education and culture and taught five years in the schools of Cloud county. Mr. Ansdell and family are much respected. They have conquered a checkered fate and the road which they travel seems broad and easy in comparison with the rough and hilly one of the past. MRS. JANET McBRIDE. The Commercial Hotel of Jamestown is appreciated by those who have had the good fortune to be numbered among its guests. The building was erected by J. E. Fitzgerald in 1880, to supply the needs of the new and grow- ing town, and was christened "The Pomeroy," in honor of James, the son of Senator Pomeroy, but was later changed to "The Commercial." The hotel was opened by a man named Norton, and after various changes and vicissitudes of land- lords and proprietors it fell into the hands of Mrs. McBride, the subject of this sketch. It had never before been a suc- cess, and when its present owner as- sumed control, the fortunes of this enterprise were at a very low ebb, and there was little to indicate the pros- perity and popularity it now enjoys. The neat and well appointed office, with its linoleum covered floor, was a dingy,.. The Commercial Hotel. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. m dark room with smoke steeped walls and lighted by the glimmer of one small lamp. The present handsomely furnished parlor was of like character ; instead of the rich velvet rug that now delights the eye, a hemp carpet strewn with ashes and coal dirt did duty as a covering for the floor ; comfortable chairs have replaced the ordinary wooden ones, beautiful pictures decorate the \\alls, and the cheerless room that once passed under the name of "parlor," gives evi- dence of refined taste. The dining room contains a handsome veneered oak sideboard, bric-a-brac, elegant chandelier, soft carpet and rugs with bright papered walls as a background, are such as would adorn a home of refine- ment. The term "home"' is applicable for the atmosphere of this little inn that seems to move along without the slightest friction, is permeated with a degree of rest and comfort not often found in hotels. The patrons of the Commercial hotel must contrast with interest the present fitness of things as compared with the dining room under the previous management; for the floors were bare, the two long, crude, homemade tables were covered with dingy- red linen, and the same faded material served as curtains for the windows. The two lamps with their smoked chimneys, did not shed much radi- ance over the equally scanty repast. The present best guests' sleeping apartment was furnished with two beds, bare floor, and a huge pan filled with ashes served as a cuspidor, while the slum- bers of the commercial traveler, politician, can- didate, or whoever chanced to come that way, Were disturbed by a surfeit of bed bugs grazing over their anatomy. The property was a perfect wreck with neither well nor cistern. Mrs. McBride bought the hotel during the hard years of 1893-94. She began without capi- tal and for two years or more encountered many obstacles, but she furnished her house by degrees and as her little daughters, three in number, grew large enough to lend their assistance, her burdens were lightened, for no mother was ever blest \\\t\\ more dutiful or more devoted children. Fron- 1896 until 1899 the crew of the Missouri Pacific pay car took their breakfasts at the Commercial hotel. Paymaster King ate his last Thanksgiving dinner there, and was lavish with_his compliments of the service and spread. Superintendent Luke was also a guest on this occasion. Mrs. McBride was born in Scotland and came with her parents to Kansas. She was married in 1882 to John McBride, by whom she had three children. The eldest daughter, Ada Lucile, is the wife of L. A. Tabor. The Tabors came from the state of New York to Kansas and were bankers in Holton and Blue Rapids. Since the death of their father, L'a Tabor, the Miss Gloria McBride. 778 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. three sons, R. A., L. A., Otis and a sister, ^irs. Frank Scott, are associated together in a bank at Irving, Kansas. L. A. Tabor followed railroad office work for twehe years, but one year ago purchased a fine farm one mile east of Irving, on the Big Blue river, and is an exteiisive wheat grower and stock raiser. The Tabors are all men of high honor, good business qualifications and strict integrity. Margaret and Gloria, the second and third daughters, sixteen and fourteen respecti^•ely, are excellent students and make the best of their educational advantages. They are both graduates of the common school branches, Gloria received a diploma which represented the highest honors in her class. Margaret is a faithful student and the possessor of an exceptionally bright mind, but the lack of physical strength has partly re- tarded her progress. Mrs. ]\lcBride is of Scotch birth. Her parents were Andrew and Jane Downey (Fram) ]\Iuir, who emigrated from Scotland, their native land, in 1865. They settled in Newcastle on the Beaver river, in the state of Pennsylvania. Two years later they removed to Sharon, Mercer county. An- drew Muir was born April 27, 1831, in Kirk Muir Hill, Lanarkshire, and when twelve years of age removed to Chapel Hill, which was his permanent home, and where Mrs. McBride was born and lived until coming to America. The annals of Scotland show that the Muirs were prominent in that coimtry among the landed gentry. They de- scended from titled' and wealthy noblemen and "Kirk ]\Iuir Hill" was named for them. In that historical place occurred the births of preceding- generations, as far back as the records can be traced. They owned large landed estates, and were fine stockmen and horsemen. They are of the same lineage as John Muir, the noted Scotch Presbyterian clergyman. The Muirs were a re- ligious people, devoted to their church. Mrs. Miss Margaret McBride. ;McBride's father was a ruling elder and led the choir in the most prominent church of Chapel Hill. He was a man of fine personality and a musician of considerable note. He was engaged in the coal mining industry' and having followed that vocation since his youth, he was well fitted to operate with practical success. Mr. Muir super- intended a colony of over two thousand workmen and not having so many^ officials as there would be in a similar enterprise in this country, he paid the salaries to the emploves personallv. After locating in Pennsylvania he was with the Pierce Coal Mining Com- pany and for se^•eral years sunk shafts and opened new mines at both New- castle and Sharon. He later superintended the coke ovens of A. J. Egbert in ]\Iercer and A'enango counties. ]\rrs. ]\lcBride's maternal grandfather HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 7791 was an employe in the house of Butry and while with them in the West In- dies was kicked by a horse and died from the injury several months subse- quently. His pay went on and his wife continued to draw his salary until she married again. By her marriage to Mr. Wilson two sons were born ; the eld- est of whom learned the mining business from Mrs. McBride's father, suc- ceeded to his position when Mr. Muir left Scotland and was manager of the same coal colony until his death a few months ago. The other brother was a railroad conductor in Scotland. Mrs. McBride is one of ten children, all are living and prosperous. There are six sons and four daughters. Five of her brothers are Rooks county farmers. The sixth lives near Portland, Oregon. One sister is a resident of Kansas City, one in Franlclin City, Venango county, Pennsylvania, and the other near Jamestown. In 1878 the eldest son and brother, Andrew L., emigrated west and located in Stockton, when that town consisted of but one cabin. Soon after he homesteaded there another brother followed. This induced the father, \\'hose health was on the decline, to join his sons in the west; he also secured land near Stockton, and lived there until his death, in January, 1887. The wife and mother survives and is a resident of Stockton. Mrs. McBride is well deserving of the success she has attained and it has not been secured without heroic effort on her part, and she has exhibited, genuine Scotch determination. The large shade trees and wide lawn., with its flowering shrubs and tall stalks of vari-colored hollyhocks nodding in the bright sunlight, add to the attractiveness of the place. Mrs. McBride makes the welfare and comfort of her guests her chief aim, a:id few cities- of the population of Jamestown can boast of so well an equipped hostelry.. WILLIAM J. ION. One of the most eccentric characters and interesting individuals of Cloud county is W. J. Ion, of Grant township, whose farm lies on the northeast quarter of section 21, town 5, range 5 west. In the Ion family William is an ancestral name, dating back many generations, and also a historical one, covering kings, poets and other great men. Mr. Ion is a native of Merionethshire, Wales, ilis birthplace was Castleton, where he opened his eyes to the light of day, October 29, 1846. Castleton derives its name from Wentlouge Castle, the present seat of Sir George Walker, a brother-in-law of Lord Tradegar. When Mr. Ion was a small boy his father was deceased' and his mother returned to the home of her parents. Her people were miechanics, and drift- ing in their footsteps, our subject began learning a trade in the iron works, of Ebbwvale, when a youth of ten years. Subsequent to his mother's second marriage, home became distasteful to him and the aspiring youth decided to forsake the parental roof and try his fortunes in America, where many of the same foreign birth had preceded him. With a wild stretch of im- 780 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. agination and only four cents in his pocket the venturesome lad of fifteen years arrived friendless and alone in the great metropolis. As he was brought face to face with the stern realities of his condition, the little stranger was plunged into deepest melanchol}'. His sad face attracted the attention of a kind hearted physician, one of his own countrymen, whose sympathy brought valuable assistance. There was a transition in the sad faced boy as his benefactor led him to a good hotel, ordered food for the young emigrant, followed by a collection, whereupon enough money was received to secure him transportation to Pittston, Pennsylvania, where he was given employment in the coal fields. The realization of his hopes were not what he had contemplated. To a youth of his tender years, who knew no language but that of his mother tongue, the arduous life in the coal regions was disillusioning to his dreams of the New World, and had his finances been equal to his longing for a mother's lo\-ing care, the ties of home and associates, he would have indulged his heart's longings by re- turning to Wales. "Breathes there a man with soul so dead. Who never to himself hath said This my own, my native land; AVhose heart ne'er witliin him burn'd As home his footsteps he has turn'd From wandering on a foreign strand." '& There was no alternative for Mr. Ion— by force of circumstances he was 'Compelled to push on, and he joined the army, \\hich proved one of the best trainings he could have had, for in the service he not only rapidly acquired the English language, but gained an insight into the manners and customs of his adopted country. Mr. Ion enlisted in the regular army, served the term of enlistment, which was three years, and was discharged with the word "excellent" inscribed on his papers. He enlisted in 1864 and was made a corporal of his division, which was Company E, First Battalion, Sixteenth United States Infantry, and was offered the promotion to orderly serg-^ant if he would re-enlist. The discipline Mr. Ion received in the service was equivalent to years of ordinary experience. After his withdrawel from the army, Mr. Ion located in Indianapolis, Indiana, and -worked at blacksmithing with one of his countrymen for one year, when he removed to St. Clair county, Illinois, and resumed that vocation. He later settled in Ray county, Missouri, and worked in the mines near Camden for a brief time. The fame of Kansas was being proclaimed throughout the world and our subject became ambitious to own and operate a farm, and forego a previous desire for the gold fields of Colorado. Hence, in 1869, he moved further westward, and upon reaching Topeka, he decided the state held HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 781 forth wonderful inducements. While visiting the land office in Pottawat- omie and Marshall counties, Mr. Ion met with parties who induced him to join them on a trip to Cloud county. This was in 1870, and his comrades were Columbus Ilinman; J. F. Hannum, the late John Wilson, ex-sheriff of Cloud county. Reverend J. P. Sharp and Mr. Hatcher, who afterward became sheriff of Mitchell county. They drove overland with a two yoke ox team and traveled as far west as Rooks county, looking over the land in Cloud, Mitchell, Osborn, Smith and Rooks counties, but found no country that surpassed Cloud county, where the most of the homeseekers in the party located, ^\here three of them still remain — Ion, Hinman and Hannum — and where John Wilson died. While enroute to the country further west they •camped on Mr. Ion's present farm, the land that attracted his attention at the time they were quartered there, for it was beautifully situated in the magnificent Buffalo creek valley, intersected by that stream and covered with a luxuriant growth of grass. His comrades rather derided his choice of a claim, but after roaming around for a considerable length of time, he saw nothing so near his ideal for a home, and notwithstanding the derision of his friends he returned the following spring, made entry upon this land and has never repented his choice of a homestead. Assisted by W. R. Ansdell, James Carter and James Kiggan, Mr. Ion erected a cabin 13x13 feet in dimensions, with a roof of poles and Kansas soil. Mr. Ion began making history early in life and continued long after this period, for like all the pioneers he met with reverses and hardships. Mr. Ion descends from British stock. Both his paternal and maternal ancestors were reared in the highlands of Great Britain. His mother having mourned the death of her family, joined her son in 1879 and' at the age of seventy-five years is a bright, vivacious little woman, who enjoys life with Mr. Ion and the comforts of his home. She clings to the pleasant memories of her old associations and is fond of conversing in her native tongue, the Welsh language. Mr. Ion was married October 19, 1881, to Miss Minerva L. Patty, whose father was of North Carolina birth; her mother was a native of Pennsylvania. They both drifted to Ohio, where they met, were married and later removed on a farm near Indianapolis, Indiana, where Mrs. Ion was born. Mrs. Ion is a \\'oman of more than average intelligence, a lover ■of literature, and manifests a marked interest in her husband's researches. Four children came to brighten the Ion home, three of whom are living. The eldest son, H. M., graduated in the common branches and from the Jamestown High school. Pie is a remarkable student and inherits his fathers fertile mind. Ivor S., has more of a taste for athletic sports and although not of a studious bent, is a statistician and during the Spanish- Ameri- can war, though a mere child, he memorized and could give the displacement of every vessel or man-of-war that sailed the seas in the interest of the two ■countries. Their only daughter is Gwladys, a promising young girl of fifteen years. 702 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The educational advantages of Mr. Ion were very meager, though from- childhood he longed for knowledge, craved an education, and had his earher life admitted of an academic training, his extraordinarily retentive memory would have enabled him to distinguish himself. However, he has studied and read until his mind is a storehouse of useful, practical and historical, knowledge. He is a rare conversationalist, and can entertain his listeners with an unlimited recital of poems, of which Burns is his favorite, bits of historical lore, and scenes incident to travel, as he can recall and relate in a graphic way all the incidents of his ponoramic life and retains the con- tents of e^'ery book he has read, either ancient or modem. He is interested in pre-historic lore. Evidences jioint to his farni having been a location, where implements of war were manufactured. Flint is foreign to this lo- cality, where various varieties of arrow points are found. He also has a pre-historic hammer, and several have been found on his land. From these facts it is concluded the material was brought from other parts of the country to the "blacksmith" in that locality. Mr. Jon possesses many trophies and relics, some of which would be valuable acquisitions to the cabinets of the Smithsonian or Cooper institutes Mr. Ion owns four hundred acres of land, t-\AO hundred and forty of which is fertile bottom land, and in a seasonable 3'ear, as in 1892, it produces fifty bushels of wheat to the acre, and fine corn. He is also an entensive stockman, raising both cattle and hogs. His cattle are of the Polled Angus- breed, and at the head of his herd he lias a fine pedigreed bull. Mr. Ion is a Republican, but admits having wandered away from the fold. He has filled minor offices and has been a member of the school board. He was reared in the Church of England. The Ions have a commodious home, situated about two miles east of Jamestown, to the comforts of which their labors, justly entitle them. MARY E. McCALL. The subject of this sketch, Mrs. Mary E. McCall, is the widow of the late Honorable James H. McCall, one of the very prominent men of Republic and Cloud counties. They settled near Seapo, in Grant township. Republic county, in the year 1872, before that village, a busy trading post, was virtually killed by the railroad making a new town, thus cutting off its traffic. Although residing in that county seven years, Mr. McCall was more or less associated with the people and interests of Cloud county, often visiting Concordia. He was a progressive man and most certainly demonstrated what can be accom- plished without capital. As a stepping stone to success he possessed those admirable qualities, pluck, grit and enterprise. "Be sure you're right, then go ahead," seeijis to have been his motto and he followed it to the letter. Mr. McCall was a native of New Athens, Ohio, but in his youth came with his parents to Illinois, subsequently entered Wilmington College of Pennsylvania, where he graduated, after which he returned to Illinois and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 7^1) taught 'school for several years and later became superintendent of a coal- mine. It was during this period of his life that he met and married Miss- Mary E. Galloway, in 1870. She was a native of Green county, Ohio. The Galloway family were of Scotch-Irish origin. Mrs. McCall's parents are- both deceased; her father in 1872 and her mother in 1899. Mrs. McCall is one of nine children, five sons^and four daughters, six of whom are liv- ing, viz : The eldest brother was killed by lightning in the city of Jamestown on July 4, 1901, leaving a wife and four children. He had taken his team to the barn and seemingly was stricken down as he stepped to the door. J.. M. Galloway of Clay Center. Robert H., a farmer near Courtland was county clerk of Republic county four years. Her youngest brother, J. E. Galloway- is in the Creek country, in Oklahoma. Her sisters are Mrs. Elizabeth R. K. Miller of Mercer county, Illinois, and Mrs. Belle Park of Republic county,- Kansas. Whdi their first child was an infant six weeks old Mr. and Mrs. McCall- emigrated to Kansas. Of the four children born to them, but one, a son Thomas G, has lived to bless and brighten their home. He was married in 1900 to Marie Powell of Jamestown and they have since made their home with his- widowed mother. This son has been a solace to her lonely hours from in- fancy to manhood. "The childhood shows the man as morning shows the day." After reaching "sunny" Kansas and looking over the land, Mr. McCall selected his homestead and after , making a few needed improvements, his financial circumstances seemed somewhat discouraging but not lacking in perseverance and possessing a 'keen foresight for business discerned where- capital could be nearly doubled. Sheep raising at that time drew his attention, and he borrowed money investing it in a flock which proved to be remunera- tive and placed him in a position to return the borrowed capital. From that, venture he went steadily on, keeping clear of debt and accumulating each year adding to and increasing his investments. He was very successful in the sheep raising industry selling at .a good profit before the enterprise be- came overdone, thus not losing as so many of his neighbors did. His flock: averaged about one thousand head. During Mr. McCall's residence in Republic county, he was appointed' commissioner to fill a vacancy and was elected to that office the two years- following; served four years as county superintendent of schools and took: a great interest in educational matters, knowing full well the value learning- had been to him. Physically Mr. McCall was not a strong man, but pos- sessed a wonderful energetic temperament and was an excellent financier. In the year 1881, he decided to retire from the laborious life of the farm and: removed to Jamestown where he established a successful hardware business, but this venture proved too much of a burden for his strength and he dis- posed of this enterprise just prior to being elected to the house of representa- tives in 1888, where he served his covin ty with honor and credit to himself. When Mr. and Mrs. McCall removed to Jamestown there were but few 784 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. inhabitants. They purchased one of the best residence properties which they greatly improved, thus malcing a beautiful home. Fine trees afford a grateful shade in the long summer days and the feathered songsters flit to and fro. A well kept lawn adds greatly to the appearance of the home. Before removing from Republic county Mr. McCall sold the homestead and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land near Jamestown, and shortly afterwards purchased another quarter section, making a total of the west half of section 22. This land is above the average in fertility of soil and is under a high state of cultivation. In politics Mr. McCall was a Republican but after the Prohibition party was organized, he affiliated with them. Mr. and Mrs. McCall were both brought up in the United Presbyterian church. Mrs. McCall is an amiable and womanly woman, with cultured and refined tastes, everything around and about her denoting a love for the beautiful. She was, in her early life a teacher and endeared herself to her pupils seeking to endow them with her gentle and refined attributes. She was a member of the Jamestown city council of women. Mrs. McCall is living out her useful days as befits a true woman and feels in sympathy with those less prosperous than herself. *'The chime of sweet bells in tune," is a living picture of her days as they come and go. &^ HENRY M. ANSDELL. Our subject is a brother of William Ansdell, mentioned elsewhere. Henry M. Ansdell was born in the state of Wisconsin, in 1851, and with his brother came overland with ox teams to Kansas; their destination was the southern part of the state but when they arrived at \VatervilIe they fell in company with other emigrants who were coming to this part of the country and through the influence of these homeseekers they came to Cloud county instead. They were not long in arriving at the conclusion that no better place could be found and Mr. Ansdell filed on the land he sold to Christ Christiansen, in 1877. He then bought the original homestead of Frank Bowe, where he has made one of the best hom_es in the community and all the comforts of life are theirs. In 1892 he erected a handsome residence of fourteen rooms. His farm consists of one hunderd and sixty acres of land. Mr. Ansdell raised corn altogether until his neighbors by raising wheat compelled him to engage in the same industry on account of the chinch bugs : however, the present year he has a thirty acre field of corn that is yielding from thirty-four to forty-six bushels per acre ; also a field of eighteen acres of oats that yielded forty-eight bushels per acre. There are several varieties of fruit, apples, plums, peaches and strawberries. They have a strawberry bed which yields plentifully and is one of the few in this lo- cality. Mr. Ansdell was married in 1882, to Annie Moreland of Lawrence town- ship. Her father, Joseph Moreland, settled in Cloud county in 1879. They HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 785, first settled in Grant township and lived on the Ansdell homestead; our sub- ject having to look after his father's interests met Miss Moreland and in due time they were married. To their union one child, a son Winfred H., has. been born. He is an intelligent young man of superior education. He was^ instructed by his mother at home and did not attend school until prepared to enter upon a high school course which he finished in the Jamestown school at the age of thirteen years. Mrs. Ansdell was a teacher in her native home, Athens county, Ohio,, before her advent in Kansas. The son is gifted in mathematics, grasping the most intricate problems without application. Mr. Ansdell is a public spir- ited citizen, takes an interest in legislative affairs and in substance stated that when the Populists organized, it only strengthened his faith in the Republican^ party. REVEREND NELS NELSON. The citizens of Cloud county who honor the memory of the old pioneers, of the state cannot overlook this memoir of the late Reverend Xels Nelson, better known to his countrymen as Neils Neilson. He did much toward attracting the attention of Danes to the resources and opportunities to be found in this western country, and the greater part of the Danish set- tlements in Grant and Buffalo town- ships came through his influence. Reverend Nelson was born in the town of Galbjerg, on the Island of Funin, Kingdom of Denmark, on the 23d day of November, 1809. His father was a well-to-do farmer ; industrious and strict in all his deal- ings ; especially so in all the doctrines pertaining to the Lutheran religion. He gave his seven children the benefit of a common school education. Our subject possessed a re- tentive memory which enabled him to rank first in his studies. At the age of thirteen years he was confirmed in the faith of the Lutheran church. About this time his father died and Mr. Nelson with a younger brother assumed the management of the farm, maintaining their mother and five sisters. Being of an active Reverend Nels Nelson. and inquiring turn of mind, Mr.^ 786 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Nelson was not satisfied v.'ith what he could see of religion; he wanted to feel a change of heart and constantly endeavored to find his wa}'. He asked the older members of the church, receiving from those in authority the same response— "If you do all the church requires of you that is enough." But he was not satisfied and sought what his soul longed for by attending evangelistic meetings, studied the church books, pra)'ed for more light, and finallv at the age of seventeen years, he and his brother were truly converted -by the power of the Holy Spirit and their minds enlightened in regard to the Bible. The doctrines embraced by the two young men were not popular at that time in the Kingdom of Denmark, and they suffered many persecutions ; not onlv from the enemies of the gospel, but from their own mother, who was a zealous follower of the Lutheran church. She was extremely radical in her religious views and was so incensed that her sons should deviate from the beaten path, that upon hearing her boys were attending divine services which were being held at a private house in the neighborhood, she hastened thither, murmuring the •\A-hile — "I will get that out of their heads." As she shook the staff threateningly at the young converts, in tones of bitterness she asked the dispenser of the gospel — ^"How much he charged for leading minors astray?" Wishing to avoid a scene, the boys hastened out into the street, closely followed by their parent, but as they Avere deaf to all her per- suasions that salvation was of faith, and not of works, she drove them from her, saying — "They were will- ful and stubborn and she would hive no more to do with them." They wandered through the village seek- ing shelter for the night but no one would take them in; they were told in tones of mockery and derision they were "Too holy to mingle with common people. But the mother, true to maternal instinct, was troubled, and as she tossed upon her pillow that night was visited by a dream in which her deceased husband seemed to stand beside her and looking sorrowfully down upon her said — "Will you drive my boys from their home?" This remonstrance was more than her mother heart could withstand; she awoke, arose, has- tily sought her boys and brought them home. They then thanked the Lord Mrs. Anna Pederson Nelson. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 787 for his goodness to them and earnestly besought him for their mother's sal- vation, which in his good time he granted. Reverend Nelson remained a member of the Lutheran church fourteen years after his conversion; ten years of that time he was an earnest worker among his people for the cause of Christ and his influence for good was felt. His spare moments were not all spent in the pulpit ; he visited the sick, looking after their physical and spiritual needs, reading to them from the Bible; praying with and for them. He also visited the prisons, speaking words of comfort and encouragement often obtaining the assistance of wealthy and influential citizens in gaining the release of some inmate. He afterward moved to Zealand and resided in the town of Gimlinge, where he married Miss Anna Pederson, April 11, 1838. She was a con- scientious young woman of good and pious parentage and with such an earn- est companion as he found in her, it stimulated him to greater efforts in his "Master's vineyard.'' They became convinced that immersion was the only true baptism, and January 24, 1842, they united with the Missionary Bap- tists and were two of the twenty-four which constituted at the time of their baptism the whole membership of the denomination of Baptists in the King- dom of Denmark. The Reverend Adolph Monster performed the rites of baptism. Reverend Nelson was ordained a minister of the gospel in Hamburg, Germany, the following spring, by the Reverend J. G. Oucken and sent out as a missionary under the direction of the German Missionary Association. His journeys were mostly accomplished on foot. He visited different parts of the country, his work extending over into Norway and Sweden; these trips \^'ere not made without great peril, especially in winter when facing the blinding snow storms of that region. While passing from one to another of the islands of .Denmark he made use of an ice boat and sometimes on account of the thinness of the ice, he would be plunged into the water, reaching his destination with his clothing frozen on his body; but such trials he considered trivial \A'hen he thought of what Christ had suf- fered. Plis growing faniily required some of his time as he was not sufficiently remunerated for the missionary labors to support them. He \\-ould work in the field all day and at nightfall would hasten away on foot to fill an appoint- ment made for the next day some forty miles distant; often making the entire journey between two suns. After making his family comfortable he often started out to preach with scarcely a cent in his pocket. While upon one of these expeditions footsore and weary, he wandered on with no house open to him and only four skillings in his pocket. (About three cents in American coin.) He entered a village where he spent his last cent for a loaf of bread. He passed on, eating the loaf as he went feeling thankful to be thus able to appease his hunger, and after he had nearly finished his repast rejoiced to find embedded in the loaf a piece of money of the same value as the one just expended. 788 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The power of God through his teachings began to be felt throughout the land so much that the authorities began to inquire the cause and as a consequence he was accused of working against the state church and ordered before a magistrate to give an account of his doings. This occurred several times but nothing could be proven against him and he was sent away with the admonition to withdraw from his labors for he was disturbing the peace. The judge told Reverend Nelson that he ought to have sense enough to see, if he did not stop his religious work he with his family would be crushed. The undaunted reply was — "God will provide for his own. I ought to obey him rather than man." Whereupon the judge grasped him by the shoulder and shook him. Not regarding their threats he continued, and complaint was made to the King, Christian the VIII, petitioning him to appoint some person as a leader of the Baptists and hold that person responsible for all their wrong doings. In the year 1842, Reverend Nelson was appointed by the King to fill that position. He was ordered before the judge and given his choice be- tween imprisonment or ceasing to administer baptism. He was allowed to preach but not to baptize nor celebrate the Lord's Supper. To see that this was observed, he was required to notify the justice of the peace. The urgent requests for baptism became so frequent that he determined to give them. He might be compared with Moses and the Israelites, as "the man of God who stood between the King and the people." He selected from their number one worthy for the service and under cover of darkness the rites were per- formed. But Reverend Nelson was ordered before the judge and not being able to pay the fine imposed, his property was confiscated and his family left destitute. His ever patient wife united her efforts with those of her hus- band, and through persecution and disaster succeeded in sustaining their fam- ily. Nor did Reverend Nelson lose faith in God ; his confidence remained un- shaken, and again labored in his cause until the authorities ordered him with others before the judge, and he was fined a second time, the amount being for each about $275. It was not immediately collected and in the meantime King Christian the VIII died, and was succeeded by Frederick the VII, who gave the people Christian liberty, and therefore the fine was not collected. Being no longer persecuted but free to work, Reverend Nelson organ- ized nine congregations in Denmark and built seven houses for worship. For twenty-four years he was pastor of one church, doing active outside work at the same time. During this period, in the year 1857, he published in the Danish language a collection of hymns, many of them being his translation from the Swedish and German languages; In 1859 he published a second and enlarged edition of the same collection. In 1861 he wrote and published two tracts, namely : "The Lutheran Church and the Bible." "What is Bap- tism and Who Shall be Baptized?" In 1863 he wrote and published a third tract called "The Golden Ring." About the same time he gave to the world a fourth called "The Law or the Ten CommaUidments." His family now being large and some of them having left the parental HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 789 roof to try their fortunes across the water in the "New World" the heart of the father yearned to see his children once more and with his wife, two sons and one daughter he came to America where five sons and one daughter had preceded him. "Father" Nelson arrived in New York City in August, 1865,. and came direct to St. Louis, where he joined his children twelve miles south of that city. The two years he lived there were spent principally in. gaining a knowledge of the English language. ']'he church he had served in Denmark for so many years became involved is some doctrinal difficulty and the thoughts of the congregation immed- iately reverted to their old pastor and they sent for him with the promise of paying his fare there and return, and remunerate him in addition if he would return and help them for a short time; but Reverend Nelson had accepted a call from the First Scandinavian Baptist Church, of Chicago, and had been commissioned by the American Home Mission Association to labor in Chi- cago and the surrounding country ; hence, could not accept their proposition ; but wrote them instructions with Bible references. In 1867 taking his wife and four youngest children with him, Reverend Nelson moved to Chicago. After two years of missionary labor he conceived the desire of having his family settled near each other and started for the frontier, that they might take homesteads in the same settlement. He with others visited Kansas in the autumn of 1868 and while in Junction City looked over the map with other of his countrymen and through an agent homesteadeid a quarter section of land then inhabited by the buffalo and the Indian. The Nelsons were the second settlers west of the Republican river and north of Buffalo creek. Several Swedes in Chicago interested other of their country- men who were a laboring but progressive people and formed a colony. They started the movement in 1867 but in 1868-9 others came and the town of Scandia was 'founded and a colony house was built. (This was afterward used as a school house.) The colonists settled on both sides of the river from Lake Sibley north to the Nebraska line. Many other nationalities settled there, as many wha filed delayed coming and their claims were contested; again some grew dis- contented, returned to their homes or went elsewhere. Something near four hundred farms were secured in a strip of land extending one mile back from the river and they also bought the state land in that vicinity. Of this number only about one hundred and fifty actual settlers came. The leaders of this scheme gave out the impression, if improvements were made they could hold their lands ; they were people who were tied up with business af- fairs in Chicago and they trusted these agents, but their claims were contested and lost as a matter of course. When the Reverend Nels Nelson came to the country and saw the con- ee. Mr. Baldwin witnessed Custer's troops coming in with each of his staff carrying a rebel flag. Mr. Baldwin's visit to the "Nutmeg" state, where he was born and where he lived until attaining his twenty-seventh year, was not the least of the many pleasures enjoyed on his eastern trip in 1902. The rugged moun- tains that were once regarded in the light of everyday things, seemed higher ; the rocks more gigantic. His stepmother, who had not seen him for thirty years, did not know her son ; his father had passed into the "Great Beyond," his sisters and brothers grown to manhood and womanhood, and living in homes of their own. Everything and everybody seemed changed, but he en- joyed reviewing the scenes of his boyhood days. "As fond recollections pre- sent them to view." To Mr. and Mrs. Baldwin nine children have been born. Two of whom are deceased. Carrie, their oldest daughter, is the wife of Sherman Robinson, a farmer of Grant township. His father, W. H. Robinson, is an old resident of Cloud county. Junius, the eldest son, a namesake of his paternal grand- father, a young man of twenty-three years, has begun the battle of life for himself. Minnie, their second daughter, is a student on her second year of the Concordia high school. Wesley, a young man of seventeen years, assists his father very materially on the farm in summer and attends the home school in winter. May and Bertha are little school girls ; the latter is a name- sake of Miss Bertha Marlatt. John, the baby, is aged three. For several years Mr. Baldwin was not very successful from a financial standpoint; but with perseverance, coupled with the assistance of his wife, who is a woman of culture and good judgment as well, the tide of fortune changed, and they now own two hundred and forty acres of land. In 1893 h^ erected a dwelling; remodeled it in 1897, making a handsome residence, which is situated on one of the finest sites in the country. With the aid of a glass, Concordia, Scotts- ville, Kackley, and Jamestown are plainly discernible. The farm is adjacent 8o4 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. to the salt marsh, a wild waste of land that in springtime is a field of water, which adds to the beauty of the landscape. Mr. Baldwin is a staunch Republican and never changes his politics. He has served on the school board of district No. 34, and proved a very efificient member. The family are members of the Jamesto\yn Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. Baldwin studied Osteopathy under Dr. Evans, a noted Osteopath of Wichita, Kansas. He has given the science considerable attention and has treated many cases. He combines magnetism with Osteo- pathy in cases of sensitive patients. He keeps in touch with modern thought and scientific advancement and possesses that energy and sturdy character so invaluable to attaining success. THE PRAIRIE GEM SCHOOL HOUSE. The illustration shown on the opposite page, is the handsome school building that the citizens of district No. 34 are so justly proud of. The first school in the district held forth in a little stone building with a dirt floor, situated on the Will Grayburn homestead and formerly occupied by him as a dwelling. A Miss Martha J. Wilford was the first teacher. She taught a three months term for ten dollars per month. Mr. Wilford was director and Lewis Gray, clerk. The first tax levied was in August, 1875 ; out of this tax were paid a teacher's salary of one per cent, and an incidental fund of one- half per cent. In 1877 the tax for teacher's wages was reduced to one-half per cent, and the incidental fund to one-fourth per cent. Lewis Gray was the treasurer, and his bond, dated March 27, 1873, was filed for five thousand dollars. Mr. Peterson, one of the members of the present board, recalls at- tending a school meeting in his house when Henry Gray and himself were the only persons in attendance to transact business. District No. 34 covers an area of three by three and a half miles. There was considerable discussion over the location of the site for the building, as the many emigrants locating in their midst were dissatisfied with a location so remote from the center of the district, and the site across the creek was very inconvenient. There was a movement on to divide the territory, but as an agreement for division lines could not be reached they consolidated and still remain one large district. The school house was placed near the center and peace and harmony have reigned ever since. The fund was secured by voting bonds. There were several meetings held at private residences, usually at the home of Frank A. Lane. Almost everyone was enthusiastically in favor of the bonds and those who were not, remained away. Hence, when the time came there was not a dissenting vote. The late Mrs. Frank A. Lane worked hard for the new school house and her characteristic determination did much towards securing it. A good story is told on Mr. F. A. Lane. On the day of the election, he with other interested parties were rustling votes all day, and when the polls were closed in the evening it was found in his enthusiasm to make the votes 'Prairie Gkm" Schoolhouse. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 807 poll as large as iDOSsible, he had forgotten to cast his own ballot. The first con- tract was for six hundred and forty dollars. The house was erected in 1882. Howard Huston, James Kingsley, and O. AV. Peterson constituted the board at this time. They were director, clerk, and treasurer, respectively. The present house is practically a new one, as it has been remodeled and enlarged, making it eight feet wider. The dimensions as it stands are 32x40 feet. In 1902 a tower 8x10 feet was erected, and a bell placed, in the autumn of the same year. To obtain funds for improvements in this district has never been a hardship, as the people all contribute liberally and take an earnest pride in the advancement of the school interests. A library of. one hundi'ed and twenty-five books has been provided and by giving box suppers an organ was supplied. These entertainments are well patronized, ninety-two dollars being the proceeds of one e\'ening. The board has at all times endeavored to carry out the wishes of the people of the district by employing the best talent. Miss Bertha Marlatt taught one term. The first teacher in the new building was John Coffin. The present teacher is James Daniels. The enrollment is thirty-eight. At one time sixty pupils answered to the roll call. The g'round of this fine building site was broken by JNIr. Huston and Mr. Peterson, and about one hundred trees were planted. The people of this locality have been agitating the subject of centralizing and building a high school, on tlie plans of the Dickinson county high school. This handsome school building does double duty, for here the Methodist Episcopal minister of the Jamestown congregation holds divine service each alternate Sunday. There is also a well attended Sunday-school. GEORGE CHAMPUN. The late George Champlin, the subject of this memoir, emigrated to Kansas in the spring-time of 1870 and homesteaded the land now owned by his son, Robert Melvin Champlin. The farm is situated one-half mile west from the present corporation limits of Jamestown. George Champlin was a native of Rhode Island, born December 2, 1836,. and died in December, 1899. He removed to the state of Xew York when a youth, grew to manhood there and married Miss Adeline E. Latten, of To- wanda, December 3, i860. He was practically a farmer ail his life, having owned land near Cold Springs, New York, before establishing a home in the west. Mrs. Champlin was born at Otsego, New York, October 10, 1835. She sun'ives her husband and lives with her son, Robfert, on the farm. Our subject's father was also named George. He has two brothers living, Sylves- ter and James, both of New York. Mr. Champlin served three long years in the ser\-ice of "Uncle Sam," and was with Shennan on his march to the sea. He was a member of Company B, One hundred and fifty-fourth Regimenit, of New York Volun- teers, and was discharged at Bladensburg, Maryland, June 11, 1863. Like many old veterans, he was left in a disabled condition from physical ailments, 48 8o8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. brought on by exposure and hardships and from being crippled while making the ascent of a mountain near Dalton, Georgia. \\'hile in line of battle he was crowded off a rocky precipice and fell about a dozen feet, injuring his ankle and left arm. Mr. Champlin was identified for many years with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and was buried according to the rites of that order. He also belonged to the Grand Army of the Republic. To Mr. and Mrs. Champlin eight children were born, four of whom are living, two sons and two daughters. Marion L. Champlin is a rural route mail carrier, with residence in Jamestown, where he and his family are highly esteemed citizens. Loretta, is unmarried and lives in the home of her brother Robert. Edith, is the wife of Frank Ion, a section foreman on the railroad. Their home is in Palmer Lake, Colorado. They are the parents of two daughters, Adeline and Frances Lillian. Georgiana, the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Champlin, died January 4, 1885, after only a few months of wedded life. Robert Melvin Champlin, who owns the homestead, having bought the interests of the other heirs, is a prosperous farmer and stockman. He was bom near Cold Springs, New York, November 10, 1868, but was brought to Kansas when yet in swaddling clothes, hence is practically a product of the "Sunflower" State. He began at the foundation, started on his stock raising career with two pigs presented to him by Anthou}- Loftus and Joe Donnelly. When grown he traded them to his father for two steers, which brought him sixty-five dollars. He worked and invested his earnings in more stock, later his father gave him one-third of the com raised on the farm, and being possessed of natural business sagacity he prospered rapidly, until he bought the homestead, added another farm to his estate, and today finds him in a fair way to become one of the foremost farmers of Buffalo township. This farm is highly improved and equipped with all sorts of modern machinery. The original house of cotton wood stood down by the creek, but they were driven out by the flood in 1878. The water came down in torrents, like a wall, carrying straw-stacks, pigs, chickens and everything in its path. The volumne of water was partially held back by the railroad which was in course of construction, but when it broke through the embankment the waves of the swolen Buffalo creek swept over the bottom lands, forming a vast lake. Robert Champlin is identified with the Woodmen and Royal Neighbors. Politically he has been voting with the Populists. JAMES CARTER. Probably no man is better known in the vicinity of Jamestown than James Carter, the gentleman whose name introduces this sketch. He emi- grated to Kansas with the Ansdell brothers and landed in Grant township June 7, 1870, where the homestead of unculti^'ated prairie lias become one of the most valuable estates in the beautiful Buffalo creek valley, and where HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 809 INIr. Carter has become identified as one of those citizens largely interested in the development of the county. He was a single man and "bached" for several months in a small log hut, and during this period in the newly settled country in all probability he looked into the future and saw a comfortable home, but did not foresee the beautiful country place that is now his. Mr. Carter has been an extensive contributor to the best interests of the community and the work he has accomplished toward the improvement and cultivation of his fine farm is a most important one. The land he entered from the government has been added to until he now owns five hundred acres which is one of the best improved and most desirable farms in Cloud county. His residence, consisting of nine rooms, its modern conveniences, extensive and well-kept lawn, is one of the most imposing in the locality of James- town. Mr. Carter's prosperity has certainly been well merited, for he ac- complished these magnificent results from no other resources than industry and good judgment. These sterling qualities along with determination have placed him in the front ranks of the substantial farmers and he is hereby recorded as part and progress of the history of Cloud county. At the date of his settlement in Grant township there were no actual settlers, as all who secured "claims'' had deserted them, and the vast territory, \\here now lie some of the finest farms on, the continent, was covered with a sea of waving prairie grass. Mr. Carter's birthplace is the Dominion of Canada, born in 1849. ^^ 1855, he settled in Wisconsin, and though but a youth responded to the call for volunteers and enlisted in Company B, Thirty-sixth Wisconsin. After serving one and one-half years he was discharged on account of disability. Recuperating his health, he re-enlisted three months later in Company D, Fiftieth Wisconsin, and served one year. While with the Thirty-sixth he was in active service and participated in the laattles of Petersburg and Cold Harbor. During the last enlistment his regiment was sent to Dakota terri- tory, where they witnessed some Indian warfare and took part in two lively skirmishes with the redskins. Mr. Carter's parents were George and Mary (Ried) Carter. His father was a Canadian by birth but emigrated to Wisconsin among the early settlers of that state. Mr. Carter is of Irish origin, his paternal and maternal ancestors having come originally from the Emerald Isle. His father resides in Richland county, Wisconsin. His mother died when our subject was eighteen years of age. Mr. Carter was married, in 1877, to Emma, a daughter of the late John U. Hodgson, one of the first postmasters in the vicinity of Jamestown, and when the nearest postoffice on the east was Con- cordia. It l3ore the name of Alva, given by William J. Ion, who was reading "Oscar of Alva," one of Byron's poems. "How sweetly shines through azure skies. The lamp of heaven on Lora's shore; Where Alva's hoary turrets rise, And hear the din of arms no more." 8io HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. The name Alva appealed to Mr. Ion as being appropriate for the new postofficc and at his sugfgestion it was adopted. When Mr. Hodgson received the appointment of postmaster his. form was straight and full of vigor, his eyes bright and lighted with expression, but twenty-two years prior to his demise he had the misfortune to lose his sight and was totally blind. Air. Hodgson was a native of Yorkshire, England, born in 1818. He emigrated to America in 1841 and settled in the province of Oxford, Canada, spending part of his time in Toronto and Tobico. He reinoved to Illinois in 1862, where he farmed until coming to Kansas. Mrs. Carter's mother before her marriage, was Elizabeth Taylor, of Canadian birth. She survives her hus- band, lives on the old homestead and owns other land adjoining. She has three sons, E. L., B. F., and W. M., who are interested with her in fanning. To Mr. and Mrs. Carter five children have been born, who give promise of becoming like their parents, useful citizens. Harry Fred, the eldest son, is aged twenty-four ; John George, aged nineteen ; Mary Elizabeth, the eldest daughter, is a young woman of eighteen years and a student in the last year of the high school course in Jamestown; Dot Lucile, aged fifteen, has just entered upon the first years course in the high school; James Eugene, the youngest child, was nicknamed "Tim" when an infant and is scarcely known by any other name. \Vhen Mr. Carter came to Kansas his capital- was twenty-five dollars, a yoke of oxen and a well worn wagon. He has gained his competenc}- by raising wheat, cattle and hogs. Prior to a half dozen years ago he raised corn. In the year 1902, he had three hundred and twenty acres of wheat which yielded only eight and ten bushels per acre. The same acreage the previous year produced seven thousand bushels. Aside from their handsome dwelling, the improvements consist of a fine barn, sheds, outbuildings and a well bearing orchard of six acres. Mrs. Carter is an amiable woman and has done her part toward gaining their pleasant home and through her refined tastes its appointments are far above the average. Mr. Carter is a Republican from start to finish and takes an intelligent interest in public affairs. GEORGE KAAD. Another example of what industry and thrift can accomplish is illus- trated by the progress made by George Kaad of Grant township, who came to Kansas in 1878 with a capital of one hundred and twenty-five dollars. Mr. Kaad is a native of Denmark, born in 1854, in Schleswig, now a part of Germany, but remarked with pride, "1 am proud to be called an American, citizen." He is one in the fullest sense of the term and is loyal to his adopted county. In 1872 he sailed for America and located in Chicago where he carried brick and mortar until after the "big fire." He then went to the state- of New York, two years later to Ohio, and a short time afterward spent a. year in Illinois, subsequently coming to Kansas in 1878. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 81 1 One year later he was married to Anne Peterson, also of Danish birth, who came to Kansas in 1878 with her father, Peter Johnson, two sisters and a brother and settled in Jewell county, near the Cloud county line. He after- ward settled in Grant township, Cloud county, where he died in 1900. Her mother died in Denmark when Mrs. Kaad was but tweh'e years old. To Mr. and Mrs. Kaad thirteen children have been born, ten of whom are living. George, the eldest child is twenty-two years of age and assists his father on the farm; Peter has just attained his majority and is also at home; Willie, the third son, is aged twenty, and Anna, the eldest daughter is a young woman of eighteen years; Mary and Frank died at the ages of seven and eleven years, respectively; Hans, aged thirteen, was born on the same day of the month as Peter, the second son, August 9th; Martina died at the age of two years and four months; Emma and Lucy are aged nine and eight years, respectively; Martha Julia and Martin August are twins; ten hours elapsed between their births, making their birthdays July 31st and August 1st; the baby, Oscar Frederick, is about two years of age. When Mr. Kaad came to Kansas he bought a soldier's filing over in the hills about two miles south of his present farm and, having proved up on it about four and one-half years later, sold, and in partnership with a brother- in-law bought one hundred and sixty acres of State Normal school land, paying eight hundred dollars for the quarter whith they divided, each taking his own deed. Li 1900 Mr. Kaad bought his brother-in-law's eighty of another party to whom he had sold. In 1896 he bought eighty acres from Mr. Peterson which makes a total of two hundred and forty acres. During the first year Mr. Kaad was in Kansas he lived in the Elniff family of Jewell county, owning a half interest in a yoke of cattle with Fred Elniff, using them each alternate week and in this manner broke up his land and obtained a start in farming. Mr. Kaad often recalls driving the ox team to Beloit and Concordia, cracking his whip to the tune of "Haw Buck, Gee Buck," etc. In the early part of their mari'ied life Mr. and Mrs. Kaad lived in a dug- out and experienced many adversities without a cent in their possession. Upon one occasion Mr. Kaad was especially desirous of posting a letter and not having the price of a stamp offered Mr. Ansdell, the postmaster, some produce in exchange for postage, a transaction forbidden by "Uncle Sam" but complied with in this instance. The most serious of all their experiences was -when a long siege of typhoid fever befell Mr. Kaad, leaving him in a helpless condition for manv weeks. There was not only a scarcity of food but their fuel was lim- ited to green wood and cornstalks; a physician who drove out from^ Con- cordia charged fifteen dollars a trip, a fortune to them in each call. The following year they were more fortunate and built a stone house of one room 10x12 feet in dimensions and dug a well, having been carrying water a half mile; but misfortunes still pursued them. The horses Mr. Kaad bought died, he mortgaged his farm and poor crops compelled him to continue re- 8i2 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. mitting' heav}' interest by re-mortgaging until in the early nineties he re- leased it, and, although crop failures came, he has since progressed. In 1898 among the improvements to his farm a comfortable eight-room residence was built at a cost of twehe hundred dollars. The house is modern with closets in all the rooms and a good cellar. They have a well kept lawn with flowers and shade trees. In 1899 a barn, 26 by 36, was erected with a granary and shed 16 by 36 attached on the west end. Mr. Kaad is one of the honored pioneers of Grant township and after years of toil and care he is enjoying the fruits of his labors and a pleasant home built through his own efforts and those of his frugal and industrious wife. He has transformed a wild, unbroken tract into one of the most de- sirable farms in the locality of Jamestown and is counted one of the finan- cially well-to-do Danes of Grant township. \Mieat growing is his principal in- dustry. Mr. Kaad is "mixed" in politics and votes for the best man. He is public spirited and interested in securing for his children good educational advant.ages. The family are members of the Jewell county Lutheran church which he helped to erect by his influence, labor and financial support. ;- EDWIX ADELBERT GOULD. The subject of this article, Edwin Adelbert Gould, is commonly known to his friends and associates as ''Del," and would scarcely be recognized by any other cognomen. He was born in ^Michig^an in 1853, but was reared in the state of New York. He came to Kansas with his brother, March 15, 1870, and bought one hundred and twenty acres of school land paying four dollars per acre and borrowed the money to make the first payment. Being entirely without capital he railroaded several years instead of improving his farm. He worked in various capacities, principally as brakeman on the train doing construction work and hauling material for the Scandia branch. Mr. Gould was married on Thanksgiving day, 1885, to Lida F. Rogers, \\-ho \\as reared on the farm where she first saw the light of day in \\'ash- ington county, Ohio. Her mother died when Mrs. Gould was a child and her father was deceased in 1886, and as fast as the children reached maturity they came westward. Miss Rebecca Rogers, an older sister came to teach school and was married in Kansas. The brothers are Alvin, Joshua, Isaac, John and Fremont, residents, successful ranchmen and land owners of Co- manche county, Kansas, Avhere the older brother owns twenty-sevai quarter sections of land. The Rogers family are of Scotch origin. The mother was Mary Ann Teeples of English ancestry. To Mr. and Mrs. Gould four children have been born, viz : Eva. the eldest daughter, a y(mng lady of seventeen years, is taking the second vear's course in the Concordia high school ; she is a hard student, a bright voung woman and has considerable musical talent. Walter is a student of the home school, "Prairie Gem," District No. 34. This locality affords one of the best school buildings in the county, a modern structure which affords a tower HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 813 with a bell and many improvements not usually found in country districts. The second daughter, Delia R., is fourteen years of age, and ^Nlerril, the youngest son, aged ten years. Mr. Gould never received any legacies but thrift and enterprise, and is en- tirely self made. He has made rapid strides along the road of progress a,nd has biiilded for himself and family an exceedingly desirable and pleasant home three miles northwest of Jamestown. He has added to his farm until it nO'W consists of a half section of land and he would now refuse an ofifer of ten thousand dollars for the ground that A\'as raw. uncultivated prairie but a comparatively few years ago. He paid twenty-five dollars per acre for l(jrty acres of the newly acquired land. Their first dwelling consisted of but one room, 14 by 16 feet in dimensions, one story high. In 1899 a, commodious farm house of ten rooms was erected and its modern appointments bespgak the refinement of its matron. In 1890 a substantial barn A\-as built. A young orchard is jvist beginning to bring its returns. The principal product of his farm is wheat, along with stock raising, cattle, horses and mules. i\ir. and Mrs. Gould enjoy and are worthy the highest esteem of fhe en- tire coiTUTiunity, where they have lent their support and influence to every worthy cause that has been promoted for the elevation of mankind or to advance the educational interests of the community. They have an inter- esting family of children and intend giving them every advantage possible in the way of education and advancement. Mr. Gould has affiliated with the Populists, but is now seeking a new party. He has held township offices for several years and has been an effi- cient member of the school board. He is one of the solid, prosperous men of his township and his friends include the whole list of his accjuaintances. CHRISTIAN H. ELNIFF. It has been said biography yields to no other subject in point of interest and profit. Especially is this true of the foreign element who have pro- gressed along the various lines of business since seeking homes in America. Many of them have gained wealth and position by taking advantage of the opportunities afforded in the new ^^'orld. The subject of this sketch has adapted himiself to the methods and cus- toms of the American people, and is one ef them in spirit, as well as by adoption. Mr. Elniff is a native of Denmai'k, born in Schleswig, in 1862. Had he been born two years later, would have been a German subject, and, like hundreds of Danes, the Elniffs came to this country rather than take up arms again.st their native land. When ten years of age Mr. Elniff', with his father's family, sailed for the United States, with Kansas as their final desti- nation. They came directly to Grant township, where they purchased one hundred and sixty acres of Normal School land now included in the farm owned by Mr. Elniff, he having bought the interests of the other heirs to the estate prior to his father's death. 8 14 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Mr. Elniff's parents were Hans Christian and Catherine M. (Maybol) Ehiiff, both natives of the Kingdom of Denmark. They owned a small tract of ground in their native country but the father supported his family prin- cipally by daily labor until coming to Kansas. Mr. Elniff is one of five chil- dren; four of \\hom are living. John is an architect of superior ability, and resides in Kansas City. He designed the handsome residence recently erected by O. W. Peterson. Fred H., now of Denmark, was a resident of Jewell county, just over the line from Cloud county, for more than a quarter of a century. He sold the farm and original homestead to Hans Nelson. He is now a retired farmer, with an income that enables him to live without labor. Anna, their only sister, has been twice married. Mr. Erickson died leaving her with several children. She is now married to J. M. Iverson, and lives in Denmark. Both her former and present husband were copper- smiths. Mr. Elniff received a common school education in his native country but "what he has acquired in English, has been gained in a practical way, for he started upon his career young in life. He bought the homestead in 1883, receiv- ing a bonded deed, until he had attained his majority. One hundred and fifty ■dollars, the sum total of hoarded wage money, was all the capital Mr. Elniff could command towards the purchase of a three thousand dollar farm with no improvements other than a dugout. But this was the consideration to be divided among five heirs. The papers were drawn up in the Danish language by themselves and nothing was expended in attorney's fees. Pro- vision was made for the parents in their life time to live on the homestead •with the son AA'ho purchased it. It was also stipulated in the contract that a comfortable place be at once provided, for the father was afflicted with asthma, whereupon Mr. Elniff immediately erected the residence where he and his family now live, and was one of the first good dwellings in the neigh- borhood. Mr. Elniff's friends considered him in the light of an inexperienced boy, and predicted a sudden collapse of his "castles," but he was steadfast in his purpose and did not build on the sand. He bought the farm on payment and by raising hogs and cattle, never failed to meet them as they fell due. The father died one year after his son had bought the homestead, and the •mother was deceased in 1896. By industry and perseverance Mr. Elniff has met with well deserved success on this side of the Atlantic and stands today one of the most progressive farmers and stock men in Grant township. His farm consists of four hundred acres, and is a valuable, well improved estate, equipped with good, substantial buildings. Mr. Elniff for the past few years has been growing wheat and alfalfa. The proceeds from the latter, in 1902, exceeding those of his wheat. He has a, field of fifty acres of alfalfa that yielded largely, and sold for a good round figure. Forty acres of his farm is pasture, while the remainder is largely bottom land. In 18S5 he erected a barn 18 b}- 48 feet in dimensions with ten foot HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 815 * posts. In 1901 he built a basement barn 20 by 44 feet with sixteen foot posts, and in 1900 a commodious structure that includes a granary, imple- ment shed, corn crib and wheat bins. The main building is 36 by 44 feet with nine foot posts. Through the center is a 14 foot dri\-eway. His farm is one of the most complete in the county. A reservoir 88 by 88 feet and seven feet in depth is stocked with Ger- man carp. A net drawn through the water will bring up from two to three hundred fish. The reservoir is fed by water drawn from the well by a "Jumbo" windmill. The wheel is a ponderous one, and if it were set upon a tower, instead of so close to the earth, it would be a landmark, such as are seen in Holland, and other Euro|>ean countries. From this pond of water, an ice house 15 by 17 feet in dimensions and eight feet deep is filled with clean cakes of well stored ice. Then there is a stone chicken house with plastered walls and a blacksmith shop ccjuipped for his own convenience. ]klr. Elniff undoubtedly possessed the attributes necessary to building- up a home in a new country, although for years the resources were not by any means varied nor was there an illusion of excellent prospects, except in a distant and uncertain future. There were repeated crop failures, and at one time Mr. Elniff became discouraged with drought, grasshoppers, and chinch bugs, and in 1889 left Cloud county, determined on finding a home elsewhere. After looking over the situation further west he returned within a month fully satisfied, no better place than Cloud county could be found. He worked very successfully for the Trower Brothers Commission Com- pany, of Kansas City and St. Joe for sixteen months, but decided to give his time and attention to his farm and resigned that position. On February 28, 1885, Mr. Elniff was united in matrimony with Elena Amelia Ruud, a daughter of H. A. Ruud, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of Grant township. ' To Mr. and ■Mrs. Elniff five children have been born, four of whom are living: Sophia Catherine, a young girl of sixteen years. The second daughter is Anna Christina. The third daugh- ter, Martha Helgelena, is named for both her maternal grandparents. May, the fourth daughter, is deceased. William Ricliard, their only son, is a bright little fellow of three years. Mrs. Elniff is a gentle woman, devoted to her family and home. Her father left Norway, their native land, and came to America in 1868. Mr. Ruud had learned the tailor trade in Christiana and was also night watch in the military service. After coming- to America, he worked on the railroad, doing construction work, and went as far west as California. Returning to Chicago, he sent for his family and in the mean- time hearing of the new homestead law of Kansas, joined a company of men going to Junction City, the terminus of the railroad. From this point they walked over the country, and drifted into Cloud county. Mr. Torneby, who was one of the company and a bachelor, had a dugout on his claim and of- fered shelter for Mr. Ruud and his family. Mr. Ruud then sent for them, and the family accepted the proffered hospitality until enabled to erect a dugout of their own. 8i6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. * The family at this time consisted of but one child (Airs. Elniff), the other two having died of scarlet fever. The remaining five children were born in Kansas. The Rnuds experienced many hardships and were twice drowned out by the flood. The first time their home was destroyed, provis- ions, articles of furniture, and clothing, floated around on the water. Mr. Ruud rescued his family from drowning by pulling them through the one window of their dugout. They were visited by a second disastrous overflow in 1878, compelling the family to flee for their lives. There were a pair of twin children; Mrs. Ruud taking one of them in her arms and [Mrs. Elnifl^, carrying the other, waded through water which reached to their shoulders. -Mr. Ruud had bem without a team for several years, and when the flood came upon them Airs. Ruud risked their own peril to cut the ropes that lariated a horse and some cattle. Through the shocks of wheat that were floating all around them these terror stricken women waded to dry land. Mr. Ruud secured a yoke of steers and just as he had succeeded in break- ing them for use, one was struck down by a bolt of lightning and instantly killed. He was then compelled to work for others and take breaking in ex- change. Thus he was handicapped for a considerable period. But the days of adversity passed and he now owns two hundred and forty acres of land and is in comfortable circumstances. He is one of the few who live on their original homesteads, many of them having- been swept in by mortgage. Mr. and Airs. Ruud have -laeen unfortunate with their children. Ida, a young- girl, just dawning upon womanhood, died at the age of sixteen years; Anna died at eight years; Lucy, a very excellent young woman, died at the age of twenty-two ; Albert, an exemplary young man of twenty-six years, died in the autumn of 1902; Anton, the only living child, except Airs. Elniff, is unmarried and lives at home. The subject of this sketch was a Republican in his early career, but he has developed into a reformer, and takes much interest in political issues. He has filled several minor offices, having served as trustee of his township two years, and as member of the school board. Himself and family are members of the Jewell county Lutheran church. Air. Elniff is a public spirited man, and any enterprise for the benefit of the contmunity receives his staunch support. He is an industrious, energetic, jolly, wholesouled fellow, who counts his friends by the score, and is deserving of the success which follows his undertakings. He began with neither capital nor influence, and, unaided, has forced his way to prosperity. From a tract of raw land a fine farm, well stocked, and supplied with all the latest impnwed machinery, sub- stantial buildings, windmills, etc., has developed. Thus is verified the old adage, that "Nothing succeeds like success." OSCAR W. PETERSON. Oscar A\' Peterson, one of the prosperous farmers of Grant township, came to Kansas in 1878 and bought one hundred and sixty acres of Normal school land five miles northwest of Jamestown, where he has built one of HISTORY OF CI.OUD COUNTY. KANSAS. 817 the most pretentions and desirable homes in this section of the conntry. Mr. Peterson paid one-tenth of eight hundred dollars, the consideration to be paid for the land, which consumed all his capital save a wife, who was possessed of ecjually as much courage and ambition as himself, and two small children. He owned a span of mules but they were not paid for. Be- tween their first humble abode and the handsome residence that now graces the wide IcLwn there is a marked contrast. The little house of sod with its board roof, dirt floor and no \\indowS The Beautiful Modern Home of O. W. Peterson. sheltered them for months. Its furniture consisted of two chairs, a bed- stead brought through on the wagon from Iowa and a few other articles of home make. Here they underwent many hardships and were reduced to less than the price of a postage stamp. With his mules Air. Peterson did breaking among the neighbors and in this way earned enough to tide them over until better days dawned. While their larder was often reduced to small quantities and few varieties of food they did not actualh' suffer. ]vlr. Peter- son invested in one hundred and sixty acres of land adjoining his farm mi the north but during the hard times had- to surrender it, and also lost some real estate in Jamestown during- the panic. He was land hungrv and when he came to Kansas coveted all the land in sight. Mr. Peterson was born in a suburb — now included in the city i:>f Chicago — in 1855, and when an infant six months old emigrated with his parents to eastern Iowa and settled on a farm in Jefferson count}'. His father, Andrew Peterson, came to Cloud county in 1884, and died near Jamestown in 1893. He was a native of Sweden and emigrated to America in 1852. His wife and her two children died of cholera during the scourge in Chicago. He wa? then mar- ried to Sophia Swanson, the mother of our subject. To this marriage fnur chil- dren were born. .-V brother, Alfred, lives in Portland, Oregvjn and a sister, Mrs. Johnson, of Phelps count}', Nebraska. A son died in infancy. Mrs. Quick, of Thomas county, Kansas, was a daughter bv a former mar- riage of our subject's mother — but she was reared with the children i^f the second imion and was a de\'oted sister. Oscar W. Peterson was married in 187^), to Mary E. Simmcins of Jef- ferson county, Iowa, the place of her nativit}- and where she grew tt) woman- hood. Her parents were W. R. and C. J. (Crenshaw) Simmons. Her father 8i8 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. died in 1897. Her mother still lives in Jefferson county. To Mr. and Mrs. Peterson six children have been born, two sons and four daughters. The eld- est daughter, O. Edna, is a teacher in the fourth grade of the Washington building- in Concordia. She was a teacher last year (1901) in the James- tovm schools. She is self-educated, graduated from a four years course in the Concordia high school and holds a first grade certificate. She possesses » exceptional ability as a teacher and has achieved well deserved success. Flora L. is ]i\ing with relati\'es in Iowa and has not been home but once in a period urchased the homestead in 1884, where he now lives and enjoys the hal- lowed memories of the old home. Wheat is almost exclusively raised on the farm, but thirty acres has been sown to alfalfa. Mr. Christianson was married in 1880 to Miss Lottie E. Burns, a lineal descendant of Robert Burns, the Scottish bard, who speaks to the hearts of all nations through his poems. Mrs. Christianson was born in Mason county, Michigan, July 5, 1857, and was demised June 13, 1887. She was a woman of excellent educational ability and taught several terms of school in her old home in Michigan, also in Kansas. She was a consistent Christian woman, actively interested in philanthropic works, and was for many years a member of the Free-Will Baptist church. Their two daughters, Alice and Blanche, are graduates of the Jamestown high school. Alice is teaching her second term in the home school. District No. 65 ; Blanche is teaching on her first term in District No. 99. Both of these accomplished daughters are intellectual and excellent young women. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 821 Mr. Christianson was married in 1888 to Marie Eskildsen, a comely and prepossessing young Danish woman who came to America in June, 1888. The parents of both famihes were friends in the old country. She came to live in Mr. Cliristianson's family and soon afterward became his wife. Her father, Eskikl Jensen, was a Baptist minister in Denmark. Mr. Christianson'e eldest sister, Mrs. Mary Johnson, is now a resident of \\'ashington, near Walla Walla. Christina married John Christianson and moved west with her elder sister and was deceased there. The youngest sister is Mrs. Martha Peterson, wife of the Reverend G. R. Peterson. Mr. Christianson is a Republican in politics. He received the nomina- tion for sheriff of Cloud county in 1898, and was defeated by Morrisette in his second term. He lowered the record about three hundred and was a for- midable opponent. He has served his township two terms as trustee, served several years on the school board and \\a.s a director almost continuously until he resigned. He is deeply interested in all political moves, is well read and well posted on all matters of vital interest to the welfare of the country. While in Minnesota Mr. Christianson and his brothers leai^ned the use of fire arms and were therefore capable of enjoying the chase on the Kansas prairies, and hunted the buffalo as long as there were any in the state. It was noticeable with regret after each hunt the herds were being driven be- yond the boundary of the Kansas line. Mr. Christianson killed his first buffalo in the spring of 1870 and furnished the family with meat for the first year. He, like hundreds of others, declares those were the happiest days of his life; the freest from care and would gladly live them over again. Mr. Christianson and his family are progressive, stand on their own honor and in- tegrity and have earned for themsebes a good name. ANTON CHRISTIANSON. No foreign element has become more important in our American citizen- ship than that furnished by Denmark. Her stalwart and industrious sons bring with them stability and enterprise, characteristics of their country. Their dreams of homes on this continent are more than realized, for most of them are prosperous and many have acquired wealth. Of this class of citi- zens the subject of this sketch, Amton Christianson, of Buffalo township, is a worthy example. Pie was born in Denmark in the year 1858; when fourteen years of age he emigrated with his parents to .'\merica and settled in Minne- sota (see sketch of Christ Christianson). When about twenty years of age he began a career for himself and was employed in various capacities. AVas one year in the mines of Colorado. Twenty-two years ago a span of horses was his only capital. He" now owns two hundred and forty acres of land, one of the most desirable farms in the country that ten thousand dollars would not buy; it is highly cultivated and well improved. Here he has prospered and within that number of years has not had a complete failure of crops ; he owes no man a dollar and takes life 822 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, ICANSAS. easy under "his ciwn \me and fig tree." Mr. Christiansen's chief product is corn; will have eight thous.ind bushels the present year, the ground yielding between fifty-five and sixty-five bushels per acre. He is an extensive stock grower, raising Jersey cows and many hogs. Mr. Christiansen was married in 1879 to j\lrs. Maggie Lied, the widow of Myrick Lied. She left Scotland, her native land, came- to Canada when a young girl and later to Michigan, where she lived during her first marriage. In 1878 she came to Kansas and one year subsequently was married to Mr. Christiansen. She is an educated woman and has considerable artistic ability. Mr. Christianson votes the Republican ticket and has held local offices at vaii- eus times. Fraternally he has been a member of the Lidependent Order of Odd Fellows for fifteen years. ]\Ir. Christianson is a man of pleasant, agree- able manner and possesses a keen sense of humor which draws around him a large circle of admiring friends. HENRY GRAY. The late Henry Gray and his family were among the early settlers of Grant township. They came in the spring of 1872 when there were but few settlers and net many remain at the present time who were there then. The Gray homestead Avas first settled by a man who when he had broke out a few furrows of ground received word of an accident that had befallen his wife in the east, and left without filing on the land. ]\Ir. Gray was born in Germany, but when four years of age came with his parents to the L^nited States and settled in Pennsylvania. He was a sol- dier of the Civil war in the Third Battalion, Company G, Eighteenth Regi- ment of United States Regulars. He experienced the horrors of a southern prison for six months ere he was paroled. He was a valiant soldier and under General Sherman and General Rosecrans participated in many battles. ]\Ir. Gray died in 1899 at the age of fifty-seven years. By his death the commu- nity lost one of the best men in the township — an industrious, honorable citi- zen. He accumulated land until with his children he owned five hundred and thirty acres, \\hicli has since been divided between his wife, daughter and son who suinrive him. Mrs. Gray was born in Montreal, Canada, but reared in Pennsylvania, having removed there with her parents when but one year of age. Through the glowing description as depicted by the two brothers who preceded him, Mr. Gray became enthused o^•er the prospect of gaining a home in the west, and with their capital of about one thousand dollars came on a boat down the Monongahela into the Ohio ri^'er, and thence up the Mississippi and Missouri to Atchison. From this point they traveled overland to their destination in a spring wagon. LTpon their arri^•al improvements began. Mr. Gray erected a stone house about 50x16 feet in dimensions, covered with boards for a roof. For several years they experienced all the hardships of the early settlers, brought about by grasshopper raids, drouths, etc. It was three or four years HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 823 before they raised a crop but managed to keep out of debt. ]\Ir. Gray was a hard working- man and gained his estate by hard later. To Mr. and Airs. Gray three children have been born, namely: Ophelia, the eldest child, is the wife of Frank Spear, who has l>een a resident of Grant township almost a dozen years and is a prosperous farmer. He owns two hundred and forty acres of land. They arc the parents of two little sons, Vernon Theodore and Hubert Paul. Theodore Charles, their second child, and first son, died at the age of twenty-one years. The second son, Frank Gray, is one of the successful farmers and stock- men of that ^■icinity. He owns two hundred acres of fine bottom land that raises more corn perhaps than any other farm of the same magnitude in the community. He has a fine orchard that yielded about one hundred bushels of apples the past season (1902). He has been twice married. His first wife was Miss Julia Eichinger, who died six years after their marriage, leaving three children, Nellie, Frank Earl and Earnest \\ ilbur. His second wife was Miss Nettie ^^'illiams. Her parents were old settlers of Jewell county, where she was born and reared. To their union one child has been born, a little daughter, Alice, aged seventeen months. Frank Gray is a public-spirited citizen and one of the leading men of the community. Socially he is a member of the Order of Woodmen and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Politically he is a Republican. With his mother he keeps a herd of about sixty head of well graded cattle and also raises hogs c[uite extensi\'ely. HANS OLSEN. One of the oldest settlers of Grant township who settled in Cloud county in the year 1869, was the late Hans Olsen, who was deceased in 1889, lea\-ing a wife and five children, four daughters and one son, Amelia, the eldest daughter, is the wife of Edmond Cuer, who has just purchased a fine farm five miles south of Jamestown; they are the parents of four children. Airs. Oisen's three single daughters are Gena, Matilda and Louisa. Peter is the third child and manages his mother's farm, consisting of one hundred and sixty-two acres. Hans Olsen was a nati\e of Norway and emigrated to Kansas when a young man. He made his choice, after looking the ground well over, of the present homestead in the year 1869. Airs. Olsen was Miss Ellen Peterson, also a native of Norway. She sailed for America to join her lover who had previously left the "land of the midnight sun," to make a home in the new coun- try for his prospective bride. Air. Olsen owned only a yoke of oxen in the way of a team, and a neighbor wishing to do a kind act offered to go with his ponies to meet and bring back the young stranger. In, less than a week Air. Albritson returned with a letter from Aliss Peterson saying she did not know if the man had been sent for her or not, adding if Air. Olsen was not there to get her at a certain time she would retm-n to the old country. Not hesitating and without 49 824 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. dela}- he yoked up his slow but sure oxen and made all possible speed to do her bidding, met his promised bride at Junction City and brought her to the Lake Sibley fort, where they were married. Theirs was one of the first weddings celel^rated in that locality. Hard lines in many ways were endured li}- the young husband and wife, but their confidence in the future for better daj-s kept up their courage and in spite of their humljle fare, consisting of corn bread and water, were willing to bra\'e these hardships for the sake of a home of their own and to this end bent all their energies and lived to see the fulfillment of their hopes and wishes. They have met with many discouragements in various ways; in 1878 the floods swept away their crops. The confluence of the Buffalo and Cheyenne creeks is on their land and the overflow did much damage. Mrs. Olsen is sixty-one years of age and in conversation said in substance, the best days of her life were in those pioneer times but she would not have the courage to live them over again. She and her family are Lutherans, be- longing to St. Luke's congregation, which is located just over the line in Jewell county. "After darkness comes dawn," and these brave people who buffeted the stormy waves of the wide sea in search of prosperity can now enjoy the fruits of their labors in their comfortable little stone cottage of four rooms, under the shadow of the trees planted by their own hands. NICHOLAS M. FRENCH. N. M. French is one of the earh- settlers of Grant township, emigrating to Cloud county in 1873. The name French is of English origin, the great- grandfather and his six brothers having come to America from England and ser\-ing as soldiers in the Re\'olutionary war. All the Frenches of this coun- try so far as have been found are descendants of these ancestors. They set- tled in A'ermont, where the father of our subject was born and lived until twenty years of age, when the family remo^'ed to a point near Buffalo, New York, and one year later to Canada, where he was united in marriage to Sarah Taylor and reared a family of five sons and two daughters, viz : Nicholas J\I., Benjamin D., AA'illiam J-, Daniel E., AA'alter S. and Bradford C. The daughters are Martha, wife of David McCuilough, of Grant township, and ]Mrs. Rosetta Jones, now of Illinois, but formerly of Cloud county. At one time and for several years the entire family were residents of Grant and Buf- falo townships. David E. returned to Canada and Walter S. and Bradford C, are in Oklahoma, the former, however, claiming a residence in Buffalo township. In 1868 the French family -removed from Canada to Illinois and in September, 1871, emigrated to Kansas, where the father died in 1901 at the ripe age of eighty-seven years. The wife and mother survives him at the ad\'anced age of eighty-two years. X. yi. French located in Livingston county, Illinois, in 1864. He tried the possibilities of California for two or three years and various other places. Returning to Illinois he was married to Caroline Markel, formerly of Ohio, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 825 her native state. She was a daughter of John Markel, who died when she \\'?..s but eleven years of age. The Markels were of Pennsylvania Dutch origin, their ancestors being among the William Penn colonists. Her mother was Jane J. Johnstone, of Ohio, and she died when Mrs. French was seven- teen years of age, leaving four other children, two sons and two^ daughters. Mr. and Mrs. French emigrated to Kansas in 1873. The first four years their residence consisted of a frame house 12x22 feet in dimensions. i\t the end of that period they erected a granai-y with a basement underneath. This building was 20x30, divided into three rooms, where they passed seven years very comfortably. In 1885 Mr. French erected a handsome and cominodious residence, consisting of fifteen rooms, three halls and two cellars. It is a mod- ern building with up-to-date conveniences and beautiful surroundings. The lawn is wide and seeded to blue grass, beautiful flowers bordering the broad walks. "Whence comes the beauteous progeny of spring They hear a still small voice 'awake,' And while the lark is on the wing, from dust and darkness break, Flowers of all hues laugh in the gale." Air. and Mrs. French are the parents of five children, who are being reared in the useful school of industry and integrity that will mark their ca- reer through life. There are no drones in this busy hive. The eldest son, A. I\Iarkel, is married and resides on one of his father's farms, three miles south of the old homestead. His wife, before her marriage, was Mary Dan- iel, a daughter of Isaac Daniel, of Grant township. The second son, Fred D. L., lives one mile south and one mile east. He is married to Etta, a daughter of Alexander MclMillan. The death of their third son just before attaining his majority was a sad blow to }iTr. and Mrs. French. He died in February, 1889. Fay S., the fourth son, assists in the duties of the farm. Dencie E., the eldest daughter, is an intelligent and prepossessing young wo- man. Osey Gail, a bright little daughter, aged eleven years. This family of children have all received their education in the home school district Xo. 65, with one exception. The eldest son took a law course in the Lawrence University and was admitted to the bar in Douglas county, Kansas. His preference for agriculture and an out door life prompted him to practically give up his profession. yir. French owns seven hundred and nineteen acres of fine land situated in Grant township. It \\-ould seem he must have brought with him to Kansas one oi Aladdin's lamps or a fairy wand, as his financial circumstances were limited to a stock of ambition and an energetic wife who stood at the helm with her husband through all his undertakings, and to her wise counsels he owes not a little of his success. Years ago when Mr. French planted the little slips of Cottonwood, box-elders, walnuts and ash, that have since grown to luxurious proportions, his wife sadly, almost tearfully, said, "I am so home- 826 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sick to see a bird or a tree." Her husband cheerfull\' replied, "lliese trees will soon be large enough to climb," but the sad protest came, "I never expect to stay in Kansas to see those trees large enough for that." The large grove that is the envy of many passersh)- is the result of this planting and evidences the prophetic vision of J\Jr. French. 'Sir. French is one of the mjost extensive wheat growers in the county and the highly culti- vated farm and fine improvements demonstrate that the \va\e of prosperity has rolled his way. He was one of the first to sow a large acreage and now raises from two to three hundred acres annually. He does not claim as heavy yields per acre as many wheat growers and remarked to the writer, "When my wheat reaches seventeen bushels per acre on an averag'e I consider it good, when it reaches twenty-five bushels exceedingly gu< k1. and when' it gets up to twenty-eight bushels it is a record breaker." In the year 1897 ^^^ threshed between sixty-eight and sixty-nine hundred bushels, the following- \e:n\ sixtv- five hundred bushels. This was of an excellent cjuality, which he marketed at the goodly price of one dollar per bushel. In 1900 his yield amounted to but forty-five hundred bushels; the present season (1902) he threshed about seventeen hundred bushels, tlie smallest )'ield excepting the total failure of 1895, when he did n(_)t cut a bundle. Corn has been a second C(.)nsideration, as 1897 was the last planted by him to any extent. He has fort}'-fi\e acres of alfalfa, which has yielded heavily and brought good returns. Mr. French is not a partisan politician, though he voted the Democratic ticket several years. He is independent in his ^'iews and votes for the best man. He has held \'arious local township offices and is a member of the school board. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United \\'orkmen of Jamestown. Air. and Mrs. French will in all probability spend the re- mainder of their days calmly and contentedly under their own "\'ine and fig tree," enjoying their beautiful home and its environments. SOUTHWORTH BROTHERS. Charles and Couch Southworth, successful farmers of Grant township, left their former home in Henry county, Illinois, where they were born and reared, and located in Cloud county in 1881. Their father was James Southworth. He \\'as a native of Pennsylvania, but was reared on Lake Chautauqua, New York. When he emigrated to the then new country of Henry county, Illinois, in 1837, they started on a flat- boat via the Allegheny river, down the Ohio and from the' mouth of the last named river embarked on a steamer on the Mississippi for Rock Islanrl. In the winter of 1878-9 he visited Kansas and purchased a section of school land and subsequently removed to the farm where he died in 1893. T'le'i' mother, who was Aliss Elizabeth Hanna before her marriage, died in 1901. Four children survive them: Mrs. Alary McCauley, of Scottsville, Kansas; Mrs. Nannie Keeley, of Lacey Springs, A'irginia, 'and the .subjects of this, sketch. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 827 The brothers own jointly three hundred and twent)- acres of excellent land — none better on the face of the earth. Their chief products are wheat and alfalfa. Their field of the latter is probably of the longes't standing in the township, having been seeded in 1885. Charles Southworth- was married in 1895 to Miss Xannie Guinn, of Pennsylvania, whose parents came to Kan- sas but returned to their eastern home. They have one child, Ruth, aged five. The Southworth farm is well improved, the commodious residence is surrounded by a wide lawn and many shade trees, and is situated on a prom- inence of ground which overlooks the agricultural splendor of their fine farm. JAMES \\'. CUTSHAW. Among 'the .highly esteemed farmers and financially solid men of the Jamestown locality is J. W. Cutshaw, who came to Kansas in 1870 and home- steaded his present farm. He was born in Marshall county, Indiana, in 1843. When he was nine years old his parents removed to Michigan and set- tled in Berrien county, near Three Oaks, where Mr. Cutshaw was reared. \Mien eighteen years of age he enlisted in Company K, Sixth Michigan In- fantr\-, and ser\'ed until 1863, when he was discliarged on account of a gun- shnt wound received in Port Hudson, Louisiana, which chsabled him for service. His company commander was Captain Ed. Bacon. Their lieutenant colonel was Da^'id Bacon — cousins. The warfare of his company consisted of guard duty, tearing up railroads, etc. Mr. Cutshaw returned to Michigan and lived in different localities of that state until 1870, when he emigrated west. He was unmarried ^vhen he secured his prairie claim and erected a little cabin and later a board house. But with the accession of a home all his own, "the young man's fancy lightly turned to thoughts of marriage,' and in accordance was wedded to ]\Iiss Frances E. Wilson in 1877, whose acquaintance he had formed during his youth in Indiana. Of the eight children born to their union six are living: Grace L., a promising young girl of fifteen, died in 1893. Earl J. and Carl F. were born at the sarte birth and are ^ery similar in per- sonality. The resemblance between the twins is so marked they often exercise pranks on their hand-shaking friends. They are manly fine fellows twenty- three years of age. Earl J. is a student on his second year in the Kansas City Dental College. He had previously been a pupil of the Concordia high school for two years. Carl F., who represents the Continental insurance business, is located at Lincoln Center, Kansas. He is a graduate from the Concordia high school. Ralph Roscoe, aged twenty, is interested with his father on the farm. After a course in the Concordia high school he matriculated in the Great \\''estern Business College for two years. The other sons, Lewis Robert and Paul Fulsom, are young men of promise. They are aged nineteen and seventeen years, respectively. Fannie Louise, their only daughter, is a bright little girl of thirteen years. These children have been I'eared in the school of industry as well as book lore, for Mr. Cutshaw owns five hundred and twenty acres of land and is a large wheat and alfalfa grower as well as stockman. 828 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. He owns thirteen quarter sections of uncultivated land in Thomas county, Kansas, which he purchased for ranching and speculative purposes, but be- lieving it will produce good wheat, will put much of it under cultivation. His farm in Buffalo township is all first and second bottom land of excellent quality. The parents of Mr. Cutshaw were Jesephus Arnold and Phoebe (Be- langee) Cutshaw. His father was of Dutch origin and Pennsylvania birth. Pie lived for short periods in Ohio and Illinois, and later in Indiana. He gained a considerable fortune in the gold mines of California in 1849. The family came to Kansas in 1876, where the father and mother both died a few years later. There were six children : Mortimer, who lived in the same vicinity for many years, removed to California, where he died. Cecil Cut- shaw is a prominent farmer and lives on an adjoining estate. Until the birth of the Populist party Mr. Cutshaw was a Republican, but is not a partisan politician and votes independently. Socially he is a member of the Woodmen and the Grand Army of the Republic. Although J\'Ir. Cut- shaw has" experienced his share of the early hardships he has given his sons better educational advantages than the average farmer boy receives and has accumulated an estate that warrants all the comforts of life. He is a typical ■western farmer and he and his excellent family are among the most desirable citizens of the community. \ JAMES McBRIDE. The subject of this sketch came to Cloud county in 1872 and home- steaded his present farm. Mr. McBride was born in Brown county, Kansas, ^^■hen that part of the state was on the frontier, before the passing of the homestead law, when land was one dollar and twenty-li^'e cents per acre and Ijefore there was a railroad or telegraph wire in the state. Mr. McBride is the oldest born Kansan whom the writer has met in the county, an honor he may justly feel poud of. His parents were William and Eliza (Starns) McBride. His paternal grandparents emigrated to Ohio from Scotland during their early married life, where William ]\'IcBride was born. A sister of the grandfather is still living there at the age of eighty-eight years. Mr. McBride's father died in 1 88 1, on the farm he homesteaded in Cloud county and where his wife who survives him still lives. Mrs. McBride was born in Indiana. Her father was James Starns and her mother, before her marriage, was Matilda Ware. James Starns was born in Tennessee and removed to Ohio, the birthplace of her mother. They both died in Brown county, Kansas, in 1845. ^^''S- ^^c- Bride emigrated \\-ith her parents to Iowa when she was but fifteen }-ears of age and when that state was a territon-, a wilderness just beginning to be set- tled. They emigrated to Bro\\n county, Kansas, in 1856 and for several years li^■ed in dread of the ^Missouri border ruffians. Jim Lane and his men were camped within a mile of their home and they knew him personally. The fam- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 829 y necessarily endured many hardships on the frontier and have hved in all arts of primitive homes. James McBride, the subject of onr sketch, is one of ten children, all of •horn are living but the eldest daughter. There were five sons and five aughters. Ellen died at the age of twenty-six years. Emily is the wife of [Kenneth McCray, of Decatur county, Kansas. John AL, an engineer of Salix, 3wa. James, the subject of this sketch. Mrs. Clara Todd, of Sedan, Kansas. ;iay, a farmer near Jamestown. Finle}', a harnessmaker of Mankato. Effie, rife of E. Peck, of Clyde. Gertrude, wife of William Hartwell, of James- jwn, and Ethan, the youngest son, lives with his mother on the homestead, 'hey are all residents of Kansas except one brother who is in Iowa. James McBride was married in 1884 to Georgianna INIuir. She was orn in Scotland and came with her parents to America when six years of age, )cated in Pennsylvania and emigrated to Rooks county, Kansas, in 1880. "or ancestry see sketch of ]\Irs. Janette McBride, of Jamestown, who is a ister. Mr. and Mrs. McBride have had born to them four children, three aughters and one son. Gloria ]May and Ltilu Qertrude are prepossessing oung ladies of eighteen and sixteen years, respectively. Archie Alexander, leir only son, is a promising lad, and Anna Belle, a bright little girl of six ears. Mr. McBride owns eighty acres of land ; each of the sons were given that mount by their father who was a well-to-do farmer and owned four hundred nd eighty acres of land before dividing it between, his boys. Mr. McBride I a Republican in politics; fraternally he is a member of the Independent )rder of Odd Fellows and has been associated with the Jamestown Lodge jurteen years. He is also a member of the .-\ncient Order United \\''orkmen. hira:m d. laytox. H. D. Layton, one of the most highly esteemed citizens of Buffalo town- lip, located on the land which comprises his present desirable farm in 1872. Ir. Layton is a native of Morgan county, Illinois, born on a farm near the ity of Jacksonville in 1 847 ; reared and educated there, and lived in that com- mnity until coming west. His brother, William Layton (see sketch), ^as located in the eastern part of the state and at his solicitation, our ibject came to Xemaha county and from there the two brothers emigrated to loud county. As they traveled westward the settlements grew more sparse iitil by the time they had reached Clyde habitation was limited to a few scat- hing settlers on the creeks and valleys; the uplands were almost totally un- ;ttled. From Clyde they were directed to certain points along their journey Y people telling them to go a certain distance beyond, to the right or ti 1 the -ft of the next shingled house; dwellings with that sort of covering not be- ig numerous. Air. Layton states when he arrived in Kansas and got off the train at 830 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Wetmore he would not have given fifteen cents for the whole state. He car- ried his hat in his pocket to keep the wind from blowing it away. It was his first introduction into a prairie countiy and \\-as in perfect s)-mpathy with the fellow who wrote: "The dust it flew, The wind it blew The paint from off the steeple. It blew the tails From off the quails, The microbes off the people." For some time after his arrival in Kansas our subject (like many of his neighbors) was a single man and lived for two years in a dugout. Two bachelor friends were visiting him when a blizzard spread over the country, raging unceasingly for forty-eight hours. During the storm the roof was blown off his stable. They each had a horse which must surely perish if left standing in their unroofed stalls. So the trio made their way through the blinding blizzard, loosened the straps of the shivering animals and led them into the dugout. To further shield them from suffering the}- ripped up some beds and fed them the straw they contained. Mr. Layton was married in 1874 to Miss Rosa Tatro. She was born in Kankakee, Illinois, and was of French parentage. INIrs. Layton was a woman of gentle bearing; she was a patient sufferer for years, and died of consump- tion in May. 1894. To their union two children were born; a daughter and son. Leria, a young' woman of twenty-five years is now in the Kansas City hospital where she is in training for a nurse. She has until recently been her father's house-keeper since she was fourteen years of age. The son, Fred, aged twenty-three, is a typical farmer and is interested with his father on the homestead. He is a member of the Jamestown band. ]\Ir. Layton has seen the country develop into a prosperous agricultural region. Their present handsome cottage is built over the cellar, where they lived with a roof over it, for several months. The}' also lived in a small stone house, now used for a smoke house and considered themselves fortunate to have had so comfortable a dwelling. Mr. Layton has prospered, has a pleas- ant home, owns two hundred and forty acres of fine land and is satisfied to live in the state he once would ha^'e gladly deserted. In 1890 he sold all their personal eft'ects and went to Oregon. But after two or three months in the Willamette valley returned, feeling there was no place where a man could make money more easily or be so happy as in Kansas. }ilr. Layton's parents were William and Elizabeth (Goodpasture) Lay- ton. His father was of Kentucky birth and emigrated to Illinois before the city of Jacksonville was thought of and on its present site the tall prairie grass was growing undisturbed. He was a blacksmith by occupation. His death occurred when our subject was about twelve years of age. His mother HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 831 wftS of Tennessee birth and like the Laytons, the Goodpastures were pioneers in the vicinity of the city of Jacksonville, where a whole settlement of them still hold forth. ]\Ir. Layton is one of eight children who lived to maturity. Of these, five are now living. William (see sketch), Mrs. James Kemp, of Iowa, Mrs. Maggie Thompson, of Morgan county, Illinois and Mrs. Martha Redwine, a widowed sister who lives alternately in the homes of her brothers. I'olitically Mr. Layton is a stahvart Democrat. Socially he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Sons and Daughters of Justice. Mr. Layton is a man whose loj-alty and honor in all the walks of life have given him an enviable reputation among his fellow men. Of his personal characteristics one of the most conspicuous arc his substantial and trustworthy qualities. LARS POULSEN. Lars Poulsen, one of the successful farmers of Cloud county, came to Buffalo township in August, 1870, selected the land he now lives on and at once repaired to Junction City, -where he filed on the homestead. From this uncultivated tract of prairie he has developed one of the best farms in the country; but not without suffering many privations. Mr. Poulsen is a native of Denmark, born in 1847. He emigrated to America just at the close of the Civil war leaving" his native land just before reaching his twenty-first year rnd like many of his countrymen, rather than enter the army against his own country he crossed the ocean to build a. home and become an Ameri- can citizen. He was penniless, but succeeded in borrowing the price of pas- sage and joined some Danish friends at Racine, Wisconsin, where he labored as a farm hand until coming to Kansas. His parents Avere Poul Knutsen and Christina, Sorenson's "dotter." They followed their son to Kansas three years later and homesteaded land where the fathe^ died about five years ago and where the mother still lives Avith her two daughters and one son. The Poulsens were in very linited circumstances and upon one occasion were on the verge of actual starvation. They were reduced to the point of digging up potatoes they had planted and preparing them for food. This appeased their hunger until they received re- turns from a brother whom they liad appealed to in Denmark. When they wrr)te him of their pitiless condition he at once forwarded them two hun- dred dollars instead of one hundred dollars, the amount asked for, which proved a God-send, for when the remittance came the potatoes were ex- hausted. They struggled on for several years, our subject going to Junction City \\iiere he worked each winter, as money was more plentiful there. One season he engaged for twenty-two dollars per month, the proceeds to be taken in wheat. In the meantime Mr. Poulsen fell ill and by the time his father who was sent as a substitute reached Junction City wheat had gone up to two dollars per bushel and his employer charg'ed him accordingly. 832 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. He afterward vrorked for J. P. King, who proved a benefactor, always treating him with consideration. While m his employ he took in exchange a cow, but before returning with his ox team to bring her home the cow un- fortunately died. Mr. Poulsen began to feel his fate was cast along hard lines when his flagging spirits were raised by the appearance of Mr. King, saying he could take his choice among three others. It was through this employer that Mr. Poulsen got his start in the world, earning a cow and a team. He now owns one hundred and fifty-five acres of finely improved bot- tom land, intersected by Buffalo creek ; raises wheat and corn in about equal proportions and seldom has a failure. The. Missouri Pacific Railroad runs through his farm. In 1898 he built an addition to their dwelling, making a comfortable house. He has a good barn and other improvements. Mr. Poulsen has been very unfortunate in his marital relations, having buried two wives. His first wife was walking over the railroad bridge, fell through and died from the effects along with her infant child. The second wife caught a severe cold which resulted in her death. She left an infant wh'ch was deceased four months later. His present wife was Kate Mary Mad- sen, an industrious young Danish woman. They are the parents of five girls and two toys, viz : Minnie, the eldest daughter is sixteen years of age. The others are Ida, Arvig, Esther, Mary, Inez and Moody. Although Mr. Poulsen has been very unfortunate in many ways, under- gone many of the viccisitudes of life and experienced many hardships while the wolf knocked at the door of his primitive dugout, he is now prosperous and happy without a debt to his charge, tie is at present a Republican but for several years affiliated with the Populist party. The family are members of Saron Baptist church. It was through "Father" Nelson, the founder of this congregation that the Poulsens emigrated to Kansas. Mr. Poulsen has becom.e a thorough American citizen and is as loyal to Kansas as if born and bred on her soil. He says nothing could induce him to seek a home else- where. Like most of his countrymen, he is an industrious, honest man and a good citizen. ADONTRAM J. ZIMMERMAN. One of the most prosperous, well-to-do farmers and stockmen of Grant toviaiship is A. J. Zimmerman, the subject of this sketch. His beautiful home, "Pfillside Farm" embraces a quarter section of land in Grant township, and the same amount in Summit, lying respectively in the southeast and north- east corners of the townships. The original home was school land, receiving a title from the government. Like the greater per cent of the Kansans, our subject came to the state to build a home and retrieve his lost fortunes. A span of horses, a wagon, and its contents ; a stove and a few other articles, with eighty dollars in cash, constituted his worldly goods and chattels. Mr. Zimmerman was married in the state of Iowa, in 1877, and with his bride and two thousand dollars in HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 833 currency sought a home near Denvet, Colorado, where tlieir little bank ac- count seemed to disappear like snow under a summer's sun; not through ex- travagant living, but he became interested in an irrigation scheme seven miles east of Langmont and his money vanished as it were, until he found himself stranded in the far west. About the time Mr. Zimmerman went to Colorado, a friend emigrated to Kansas. Feeling his position very keenly, he began casting about for new fields and pastures green, as his personal pride would not admit of his returning to the old home. Through correspondence, he learned of his friends prosperity in Kansas and with regret that he had not likewise invested his money wisely, gathered the fragments of his little for- tune together and in the autumn of 1878, located on his present farm, then a tract of raw prairie, built a small house and for two years experienced many hardships; often finding it a struggle to keep the wolf from the door. To the kind-hearted generosity of the Layton Ijrothers, Mr. Zimmerman con- cedes much; in many instances they gave him employment when they would have performed the labors themselves but for making it possible for him to maintain his family. Through their assistance he was tided over until better days came. Mr. Zimmerman relates an incident that is amusing and an illustra- tion of what many old settlers had to undergo. He was without money, his pride would not permit of an appeal to his home in Iowa, and he sought credit by asking Mr. Ansdell, the pioneer merchant of Grant township, for some gro- ceries. It took all the courage our subject could summon up to confront the "store keeper" with a request for credit, and as he stood before him seemed almost speechless ; but he nerved himself up to the emergency. There \\'ere spectators present, among them Miss Ansdell. In a subdued tone of A'oice asked, if he could credit him with some goods. Mr. Ansdell, who was hard of hearing, leplied in a loud tone — "What you say.~'" Mr. Zimmerman stood abashed, his pride seriously hurt, and as he repeated the question every sound seemed suddenly to cease as the old gentleman thundered out — "What's that you say? Credit? Why yes! of course you can." There was a mixture of comedy and pathos in this experience, but Mr. Zimmerman says the event was far more of an ordeal than it would be now, to ask a man for the loan of a hundred dollars ; he could make the request gracefully and not feel in the least disconcerted. Mr. Zimmerman was born in Clayton county, Iowa, in 1854. When eleven years of age moved with his parents to Franklin county, where they improved a farm as the son did in Kansas. Prior to this event, his father had been a merchant and proved to be poor material for a farmer. AVhen he entered upon farm life, he was totally ignorant of the management of stock, implements and machinery. He scarcely knew to ^\•hich end of the plow the horse should be attached. He was of Pennsyh-ania birth and knew Stephen Girard, the American banker, and founder of Girard College, personally : our subject remembers as a boy how his father entertained him A\ith anecdotes and recitals of that distingiiished citizen. The Zimmerman ancestry were members of the reform movement brought alx)ut by King Louis, and Louis 834 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Philippe of France, and during this period emigrated to America and set- tled in New York and later Pennsylvania. They belonged to the titled peo- ple of the Netherlands and were very wealthy, but were forced to choose between their religion or be banished from their countr}-; they chose the latter, and their property, which represented millions of dollars, was confis- cated. Tl'.e heirs made an effort to recover the estate and it was in litigation for many years, !)ut owing to the system of government there, they have never been able to recover it. Mr. Zimmerman is one of ten children, hve sons and five daughters. The sons are all living and when he visited his boyhood home a year ago the fr\'e brothers were all assembled there. Tliey occupy various stations in life; the eldest brother is of an inventive turn of mind. Three of the daughters are living. The father died in ] 886, but the mother still lives on the old homestead and enjoys life at the age of seventy- four years. Mr. Zimmerman's first wife, before her marriage, was Miss Hattie A. Newhouse, a very estimable woman and member of a prominent Ohio family. She died in the autumn of 1883. Her father was an old vet- eran and fell at the battle of Stone river, giving his life to sustain the stars and stripes of his country. To this union three children were born; Dr. Vivian E. Zimmerman. (See sketch). The death of the second child, Ef- fie Maude, preceded her mother one year; she died on the farm near James- town in 1S82, at the age of two years. Minnie, a junior of the Emporia State Normal, is a bright and promising young Avoraan of literary tastes. So marked are her tendencies in this direction that she is designated as the poetess of the normal. She has written some very creditable verses and is endowed with natural talent. Her mother was a woman of rare strength of character and its impress has been left in the individuality of the daughter. She was reared by her maternal grandparents of Abilene, but educated by her father. After the death of his wife, Mr. Zimmerman left the farm and returned to Iowa where he lived until 1889. When he came back he found his farm a wreck; the house having been almost demolished by the tenants. During this interim he was married to Miss Hattie G. Logan, whose lineage was the f.ame as the celebrated Logan family. Her father was a first cousin of General Logan and Senator A. R. Logan. On her mother's side she de- scended from the Gilruths, another distinguished family of Scotch origin. By this union three children were born ; a son who died at eight years, and two daughters, Edith, aged sixteen and Florence, aged ten. Mrs. Zimmer- man was deceased in September, 1896. In 1898, Mr. Zimmerman was mar- ried to his present wife. Miss Zipporah Dailey, daughter of Pat Dailey. She is a niece of County Commissioner Dailey, and also of Dr. Dailey, of .FJe- loit; they being her fathers brothers. Her parents who were residents of Grant township, Cloud countv, for about fourteen years, now reside in Jack- son count)-, Oregon. Her father served during the Civil war in an Iowa regiment of cavalry. To Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman a little son was born to bless their home, but was deceased at se\en and one-half months. "Hillside Farm" is one of the best arranged and best equipped farms HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 835 in the county; a typical country home. The residence built in 1892, is a com- fortable one and as the name implies is located on a prominence of ground with about one hundred and twenty-five feet of frontage. A windinill and tank supplies irrigation for the fine lawn and shrubbery. The coming sum- mer Mr. Zimmerman intends to remodel and refurnish his home, and make it an ideal residence, complete with modern improvements, extensive librar}-, etc. In 1897 he erected a handsome stone barn, one of the finest and most substantial of its size in the country. The shelter afforded for all the stock, the sheds for pre- serving machinery and implements, the granaries of well stored grain, cattle yards, feeding racks, carriage sheds, and well kept horses, all bespeak thrift and enterprise. His farm is well stocked with a high grade of Shorthorn and Hereford bred cattle. Mr. Zimmerman is one of the original gold Democrats, but the house stands divided against itself, for Mrs. Zimmerman is a Republican. Our sub- ject is a thorough politician and has given thought and study to political issues. In 1894, when the Populists controlled the state, Mr. Zimmerman re- ceived the nomination as a Democrat for county commissioner, but \\as beaten because he held out for sound money. He has been the county's com- mitteeman for years. Socially, he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, and is a member of several fraternal orders. He is a Rebekah and one of the few men who have gone thi"ough the chairs of that order. The family are attendants of the Jamestown Methodist Episcopal church, of which Mrs. Zimmerman and the daughter are members. JOSEPH ZIMMERMAN. One of the old settlers of Summit township who came to Kansas in 1874, is Joseph Zimmerman. He is a native of AVittenburg, Germany, born in 1835. He came to America in 1853, settled in Rutland, Vermont, and later to Galesburg', Illinois, where the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy railroad was being built, then to St. Joseph, Missouri, where he lived a few months when he moved to Maysville, DeKalb county, Missouri. Mr. Zimmerman had learned stone masonry in Germany and worked at this in the earlier part of his life. He now lives on his original home- stead in Summit township. His parents were Anthony and Catherine (Mil- ler) Zimmerman, both of Germau-V. His father was a farmer. He died in Germany in 1848. His mother died in 1866. Mr. Zimmerman is the young- est of four children and the only living one. He vras married March f2, 1867, to Susan Slown, who was born and reared in DeKalb county, Missouri. Her father was James Slown, a farmer. The Slowns are of Irish origin. To Mr. and Mrs. Zimmerman have been born three children, James W., a farmer and stone miason, with residence in Mitchell county. Jacob H., associated with his father on the farm. Anna, wife of O. G. Yoctmi, a farmer of Summit township. Mr. Zimmerman is a Republican and served his country during the Civil 836 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. war three years and nine months. Was with Major Alben of St. Joseph, six months, tlien enhsted in Alben's Battahon, January lo, 1862, and later joir.ed Company H, First Missomn Cavalry, where he served imtd discharged in March, 1865, and \\'as mustered out at Warrensburg, Missouri. Mr. Zim- merman was wounded in the shoulder at the battle of "Mine creek and still feels the effect of the wound. His regiment operated principally in Missouri, Kansas, Indian Territory, and Arkansas. They were mustered in with one hundred and twenty-three men, and mustered out with forty. Mr. Zimmerman has been treasurer of Summit township for two years. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic post at Scottsville. The family are members of the Catholic church. MURT DAILEY. Murt Dailey, who is prominently known as one of the efficient commis- sioners of Cloud county as well as a valued citizen, came to Kansas in the autumn of 1876, and located a claim in Jewell county which he sold in 1882 and bought a farm in Summit township where he engaged in agricultural and stock-raising pursuits with marked success. His efforts were so well rewarded that he removed to Ochiltree county, Texas, i.i 1886, where he could pasture his increasing herds over a larger territory. Success fol- lowed him there, but owing to financial re- \'erses he lost money in the removal. Noth- ing could foreshadow his old love for Kan- sas, hence in 1894 he returned, and after one year in Jewell county purchased one of the finest farms in Summit township, lying in that magnificent stretch of country adjacent to Scottsville. Mr. Dailey was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1848. He emi- grated to America with his parents, Frances and Johanna (Casey) Dailey, and settled in southern Iowa, Appanoose county, when that country was in a pioneer state. They sub- sequently removed to ^Missouri. Francis D-^.iley lived to see his entire family grown and established in homes of their own. The mother died in 1898, in Beloit, at the home of Dr. Dailey, a brother of our subject. Mr. Dailey is a veteran of the civil war, enlisting December 15, 1863 in Company D, Blrst Missouri Cavalry. He was but fifteen years and three months old wb.en he joined the army. Company D, along with frag- ments of other companies, were merged into Company A, First Missouri Cavalry. Their warfare consisted principally in guarding against the raids of the Younger and James bovs. They were in a general engagement against iluRT Dailey. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 837 General Price in his last invasion. Mr. Dailey says, he "did not miss any of the show" but was engaged in active service the entire time. His company was mustered out at Benton Barracks, Missouri on July 11, 1865. j\Ir. Dailey's first wife was Elizabeth Stevens, who died in the autumn of 1886, leaving thirteen children, ten of whom,' are living', four daughters and six sons. He was married in 1888 to Miss Nora Griffin, his present wife. The Daileys are members of the Catholic church. Mirrella, the eldest daugh- ter is a sister in the convent at Leavenworth, Kansas. Mr. Dailey has always been prominent in politics and has filled various public offices. During the latter part of the seventies he was elected trustee of Jewell county and com- missioner in 1880, having served about two years of the term (of three years) when he removed to Cloud county. While in Texas he was elected county treasurer of Ochiltree county. In 1901 was elected to his present office. He has served on the school board continuously wherever he has lived, one of the best references a man can give. He is an active member of the Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Dailey is a good citizen, an excellent manager, Iience well qualified for his responsible position, the dvities of which he is ably discharging. MILTONVALE. The city of ]\Iillonvale, situated in the southeast corner of the county, in Starr township, section 20, town 8, range 2, was founded by Milton Tootle of St. Joseph, Missouri, who owned the townsite and in whose honor the place was named. Tootletown was first suggested, and Tootleville, but 3.111- tonvale seemed more pleasing and was subsequently adopted. Mr. Tootle gave e\c-ry olher lot to the railroad. The original plat was eighty acres, fol- lowed shortly afterward by another eighty, and there have been some addi- tions since. The population of the town is about four hundred and fifty in- habitants. The city owes its origin to the railroad bonds issued by the town- ship to the amount of ten thousand dollars, for securing the narrow guage railroad, then called the Kansas Central and which ran from Leavenworth, Miltonvale being the terminus. About thirteen years ago the road was changed to a standard gnage and is now under the control of the Union Pacific. C. E. McDaniel and J. W Mathews were the first to erect buildings and opened stocks of general merchandising and groceries, respectively. The township voted $13,000 and the city $7,000 in railroad bonds in 1889, and secured a line of the Santa Fe. The town was made a city of the third class in 1883 and C. E. McDonald was its first mayor. Miltonvale was at one time a city of eight hundred and forty-five population. The Santa Fe gave it better shipping facilities, but the building up of other towns in close proximity has been a detriment to the growth of Miltonvale. It has also been retarded by disastrous fires. A flourishing mill was once operated there. It burned to the ground in 1886. There was no fire company and the people were compelled to stand with folded arms and witness the destruction of one of their best properties. Prior to the birth of Aliltonvale, Wilson Mathews was postmaster at Star Center. The office was in the building with his stock of goods at that point, which constituted about all there was of Star Center. When the new town sprung up Mr. IMathews moved his store into Miltonvale and became the first postmaster there. He resigned the following summer and C. M. Phelps was appointed, but when a change of administration took place H. P. Flora was placed in charge and served through Ex-President Cleveland's HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 839 first term. I. E. Dawes succeeded Mr. Flora when President [NIcKinley was elected. L. O. S. Clary was commissioned to serve under Cleveland's second administration but resigned before his term expired and the postoffice was removed to the store of B. E. Hubbell and remained under his supen-ision until the second election of President McKinley. when Dr. James Hall received the appointment. The office was conducted by James Hall, Jr., and :\liss Char- lotte Hall to the entire satisfaction of the public for four years. Another son, Bruce Hall has succeeded to Miss liall's place and the popularity of the office continues under the efficient management of these young men. Miltonvale newspapers have had a varied and checkered career, as will be seen in the resume of Cloud county newspapers on page 172. The Milton\'ale Record, until recently edited by J. V. Honey, has been purchased by A. B. Swift. His daughter. Miss Zella Swift, is local editor, while Ed Plill, formerly of Concordia, is manager of the mechanical department. Miltonvale ships more cattle than any point in the county and the pasture land in this locality brings better returns for graz- ing purposes than farming. Miltonvale not only has a good school building but employs an efficient corps of teachers. The churches, as shown in the accompanying engraving, are a credit ta the ])ecple of the town. All lines of business are represented and all the secret and social orders are found there. The city draws trade from a wide area of country, west to Aferedith, north to St. Joseph, and east and south for several miles beyond the limits of Cloud county into Clay and Ottawa counties. Miltonvale Public School Building. THE tJNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF MILTONV.'VLE. The congregation of the United Presb}'terian church of Milton\-ale was partially organized June 7, 1882, with seven members, two men and live women, and the work of erecting a house of worship was at once begun and completed in the same year : the board of Church Erection donating $700 and loaning $200. The entire cost of the church building was $1,250. In January, 1883, meetings were held in the new edifice for four weeks conducted by the Reverend Thomas ^Nlcirague, and seven members were added, making a membership of fourteen. The congregation had occasional preaching but no further additions until September, 1884. In June, of 1884, T. ^l. Bartlett having previously been chosen elder- along with John L. Hubbard, was ordained and' installed. In September the organization was completed by the ordination and installation of John L^ Hubbard. 50 840 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. July I, 18S4, Reverend A. J. Hanna took charg-e of the congregation as stated sr.pply. remaining- one year, and twenty-three members were re- ported at the close of his labors; also the installation cif James Clithero (now of Concordia) as an additional elder. Reverend \\'. J. Brooks then became strited supply until September 21, 1886, when he accepted a call to become their pastor antl was installed as such. At the close of the year ending June, 1886, forty-six members are reported. The two hundred dollars borrowed from the erection board was paid and a parsonage built. At the close of tlie following year fifty-two were reported as the membership. When the parsonage was built three hundred and lifty dollars was bor- rowed fronii the Church Erection Parsonage Fund, which Avas to be paid in five annual payments with six per cent interest. In February, 1886, twenty members were added to the congregation, and in January, 1887, thirteen more A\ere recei\'ed; 1888 was a year of failure in crops but it brought many blessings. The church was able to reduce the amount of its individual subscriptions, promptly remitted payment for note due on parsonage, and twelve members were admitted to the church — ten of them by profession. In March, 1888, J. W. Taylor and H. B. Button were elect- ed ruling elders. At a meeting held in May, 1889, J. \y. Taylor was appoint- ed chairman and D. B. Button secretary; opened with prayer by J. Clithero, and adopted resolutions whereas they applied to be transferred to the Presbytery of Solomon in connec- tion with the Presby- terian church in the United States of , . America, and after an mternn, or soon as proper arrangements could be made, were admitted The highest membershi]5 was m 1888, Avhen it reached eight v-nine They were constantly changing like all Avestern churches— 6n wheels as it were Re^■erend G. H. Cl^-mer took charge of the work in Juh-. 1900, and added seven members to the congregation. They have a flourishing Sabbath school with an er,rollment of seventy pupils. A. J. Culp is superintendent. The church is more flounslung than for some time. Mr. CIvmer ,s a student of the Bayton Presbyterian Church Methodist Episcopal Church. Christian Church. A Group of Miltonvale Churches. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 841 Theological School, a graduate of the class of 1889, and ordained the following year. He is engaged in missionary work and is not a permanent pastor. AURORA. For a number of years the Presbyterians had a church in the Catholic settlement called INIulberr)', which burned down. They also had a church organization called Plum Creek church with JNIr. Laruex as pastor, who preached in the French language. Later the}' centralized and organized a congregation at Aurora, have the grounds and contemplate building a church the present }'ear. The church was organized in 1897 h\ Reverend W A. Course. They worshipped in the school house for a short time but since the removal of the IMethodist Episcopal church to Aurora ha\-e held services there, and since said time the congregation has been under the charge of the pastor of iMiltonvaJe. They have an excellent YoungPeople's Christian Endeavor in g"ood con- dition with a membership of fifty-nine, and a union Sabbath-school doing an excellent work. The church has twenty-seven members \\ith services e\-ery second Sabbath, alternating with ]\Iiltonvale. CHURCH OF CHRIST OF MILTONVALE. The Church of Christ of Miltonvale was organized April 17, 1884, under the pastorate of G. S. Smith, now postmaster of Delphos, Kansas. The first elders were John Squires and W J. Hayes. The first deacons were J. B. Johnson and A. A* Stepp, with a charter membership of twent)--six, including the officers; many of them coming from the country districts, worshipping in the school house. The people of this congregation assisted in building the ]\Iethodist Epis- copal church, and held meetings there altemateh' e\-er}- other Sunda}-, but returned to the school house later, owing to some misunderstanding among the members. Li the autumn and winter of 1886, they built a brick church 30x5o-feet, which is one of the best church edifices in the town of Miltonvale. It is seated with two hundred and sixteen chairs. The church was erected at a cost of $3,300, but before all their payments were met there was a total of about $4,000. The church was built by popular subscription and some outside do- nations, but the greater part of it, by a few individual members. Of the first organization there are only four remaining in Milton\-aJe — Mr. and Mrs. Jolm Squires and I\Ir. and ]Mrs. \A' J. Hayes. ]\Ir. Squires has been the standby of the church and has given more of his worldly goods, than any one member toward the keeping up of the church. The}- have about one hundred members enrolled. The first meeting held prior to the organization was conducted by Reverend Kinney, followed by G. S. Smith, R. L. Downing, H. E. Ballou, 842 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. J. T. LeBaron, J. X. Beaver, Alelvin J. Duncan, J. K. Ballon, J. H. Harris and J. \\' Payne, \\ho is the present retiring pastor. The church was dedicated by the Re\'erend Morgan Morgans. The church has had several successful revivals ; one conducted by O. E. Brown •under Reverend Downing's pastorate is deserving of special mention and others by J. W. Gamer, W. \V. Blalock and J. \\' Bryant. In the winter of 1887-8 a successful union meeting was held in connec- tion with the United Presbyterian church. A Sunday school has been kept up since the organization of the church, and their reading meeting's, either with or without a pastor. There is also an acti\'e Christian Endeavor society. Nicolas Goodreaux is serving his third year as Sunday-school superintendent and has only been absent once during this tim_e. JosqDh Neill is assistant superintendent. The ladies have an aid society which has been in vogue almost since the organization. The present elders of the church are J. B. Dawes, John Squires, W. J. Hayes; deacons, S. P. Smith, L. J\l. Trudell, and deaconesses M. S. Squires, Elizabeth Smith and ^NIi's. \\''oodworth. THE FIRST METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHlfRCH OF MILTONVALE, KANSAS, f The First Methodist Episcopal church of Miltonvale, was chartered April 2y. 1883; the Bishop presiding at the Northwest Kansas conference having sent Reverend W. S. Morrison to organize the Miltonvale circuit. The first board of trustees were R. S. Phelps, L. E. Phelps, H. I. Olmstead, J. T. Gentry, James \V. Mathews and E. S. Bower. During the year of 1883 lots were purchased and the parsonage erected. The following year lots eleven and twelve of block eight were chosen as a suitable location for the church edifice and were purchased. The toard of trustees in June, 1884, elected R. S. Phelps and Reverend \V. S. Morrison to superintend the building of the church. The contract was given to ^Ir. \Mlliam Modrell. The foundation of the church was laid in the spring of 1885, but Reverend Morrison being called to other fields of labor the erection of the church building then devolved upon his successor, Reverend S. L. Semans. Tlie church building was finished during the year, being fifty feet in length and twenty-eight feet in width. The Church Ex- tension Society of the I\Jethodist Episcopal church granted the trustees a loan of $300. which aided them in building. The church cost about $1,600, the balance of- which was raised among the members and friends. The Sulphur Springs class was added to Aliltonvale in 1886; this society possessed a new church edifice which was built in 1885. In the spring of 1887 Reverend Semans was succeeded by Reverend G. \\'. \\'interburn. The following yVpril the trustees deemed it advisable, and the parsonage was sold. Reverend H. M. Alayo, B. A., in the spring of 1888 followed Reverend Winterburn. Reverned Alayo labored three years among the people of Mil- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 843 tonvale and did much toward building up tlie church. He was succeeded in the spring- of 1891 by Reverend C. V. Penn, who, after two years of patient labor, was called to other fields and Reverend J. H. Laird succeeded. A revival wave swept over the community during his pastorate and many were united to the church. Reverend G. B. Warren came to the work in 1896. In 1897 t^^^ Sulphur Springs church edifice was remoA-ed to Aurora, an organ was soon added and Charles Rogers gave a bell for which the members provided a tower. In 1898 Reverend R. E. Dunham, B. A., was assigned to Miltonvale; and during his stay the church debt of $300 was paid. He labored faith- fully three years ; when he left the Miltonvale charge was free from debt. Reverend A. S. Warriner, B. A., took charge of the work in April, 1901. Again a revival swept over the community and twenty-one were received into the church. The membership of the church of Miltonvale now numbers forty-five and eighteen probationers; the membership at Aurora is twenty-five, making a total of eighty-eight. A wide awake Sunday-school under the supervision of Mrs. Blanche Lowry now numbers seventy. At Aurora, the Sunday- school is a union school under the supervision of Sidney H. Domoney. At Miltonvale a Junior League with fifty-five members is under the superinten- dency of Mrs. Alice S. Warriner, who instructs the juveniles, while the Senior Epworth League is doing its work among the young people. J. W. Honey is president of the Epworth League. BANKING HISTORY OF MJLTONVALK. The Pioneer Bank of Miltonvale was established b)' Hathaway & Stowe. The business was afterward succeeded to by A. ,A. Stowe. The bank was op- ened in ] 882 at the settlement of the town, and was discontinued by Mr. Stowe in 1888; capital stock $5,000. The banking house of W. R. Davis & Company, in charge of S. A. Walker, of St. Joseph, Missouri, was organized and began business in 1883 and continued until 1888, when they went into voluntary liquidation and suspended business. Their capital stock was $5,000. The Miltonvale State Bank was organized under the then new state law and began business in 1886 with a capital stock of $5,000, and the following officers :W. P. Rice, of Clyde, Kansas, president; W. E. Bush, of Orwell, Vermont, vice-president; Edward Week cashier and I. G. Cushman assistant cashier. They continued until 1890 when they were forced into the hands of a receiver. The Bank of Miltonvale was organized in 1891 with C. E. McDaniel, president; F. H. Beekman, vice-president; John B. Morris, cashier. They continued until 1897 when they liquidated and business was suspended. Their capital stock was $12,000. There was an interval of about one year elapsed ',\"hen there was no bank 844 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. a,t :\liltonvale on account of failure of crops and losses in the cattle business, making it an unprofitable undertaking. In 1898 the present Drovers" ^tate Bank was organized with a capital of $5,000 and began business which con- tinues in successful operation with Frank Koster, president; Samuel \\'atson, and C. C. Burress, vice-president, and John B. Morris, cashier and secre- tary. The bank history of :\Iiltonvale is a somewhat checkered one, but the present improved condition of financial affairs has rendered them more sound and also induced the second establishment of a banking institution in their town. STATE BANK OF M [I.TONV ALE. The State Bank of Miltonvale promoted by the officials of the Concor- dia First National Bank, opened this fast growing enterprise June 3, 1902, ^^•ith the following well known men installed as oflicials : F. J. Atwood, president; W. W. Bowman, vice-president; C. M. Walker, cashier. Direc- tors: F. J. Atwood, C. E. Sweet, W. AV. Bowman, D. H. Atwood, and C. M. Walker. After only five months duration the deposits of this new banking firm have reached $25,000. This institution was organized with a capital of $5,000 and is controlled and operated by well known men. Miltonvale citizens should feel great pride in this enterprise for the men at the helm are tried and trustworthy citizens whom success is sure to follow. MILTONVALE EASE BALL TEAM. Once upon a time ]Miltonvale had the champion base ball team of Cen- tral Kansas. For years they were undefeated and were the pride of the town and community. Then there was no fence around the ground, no admission was charged and no pnrses were played for. AMien they began to play for money, outsiders and professionals were "run in" and of coiu'se brought an occasional defeat; this together with the hard times for se\'eral years broke up the team. In its palmy days the base ball club was known as the "Milton\-ale Light Weights," and later, as they grew in proportion, the "Miltonvale Heavy Weights." Their uniforms were of bright colors, and everv effort was put forth to make the game popular and draw great crowds to the town. James Neill was their first manager. The merchants were liberal in their support and encoiu-aged the boys in every way. Clay Center and Oak Hill were their chief antagonists and were de- feated with unfailing regularity. "Miltonvale will probablv never have an- other team to compare with them. Rl'jVr C^(US.\DE. September 9, 1898, a large number of the leading citizens and church people of ^Miltonvale made a raid on the "joints" of their town. They visited HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 845 the place conducted l3y Joe P.eiKjit, where they proceeded with axes to demol- ish things generally. In a moment the l)eer \\'as running in torrents over the whole building, the owner offering no resistance, but \\as ordered to lea\-e town which he proceeded to do. The next place of attack was run by Peter Hamnierli ^\■ho had locked himself in the building, but the ladies who Avere leading the crowd broke open the door with axes. As the door flew open a gun was discharged by Ham- nierli, but no one was hurt. A moment later a second shot was fired which was received full m the face of P'rank Miller, editor (it tjie Miltonvale Press, who had come upon the scene to protect his sister — one of the participants. He fell heavily to the sidewalk and for a time his life was despaired of. He was seriously wounded and l(jst an eye as the result and his face was other- wise disfigured. Hammerli was captured and on January 27th found guilty and convicted of manslaughter in the third degree. This is a dark chapter in the history of Miltonvale, and came near costing the life of a \'erv excellent and worthy young man. BURDICK HOTEI . The well appointed hotel in their town undoubtedly affords as much sat- isfaction to the people of Miltonvale as it does to the traveling public. The building now known as the "Burclick Hotel," an engraving of which ac- companies this mention — was erected about one year subsequent to the arrival of the railroad in their city, by Mr. Eaves, of Concordia, who \\as the landlord for several vears, until he sold the property, which la- ter fell into the hands of some east- ern speculators. The management of the "Merchants' Hotel," as it was then known, changed annually and sometimes semi-annually, often drop- ping- low in the scale of prosperity, until the house was closed indefinite- ly, much to the inconvenience of the public. During this period Mrs. E. A. Burdick opened a first-class restaurant which met the demands and requirements of the inner-man, and to the wayfarer who was compelled to linger in the city over night, a week or a month, the situation sometimes be- came com>plicated. But in such instances, Mrs. Burdick, who is well known for her disinterested kind-heartedness, would dispatch a runner ()\"er the town, until places of lodging were secured, although the chances often seemed dubious. Early in the spring of J 902 the ?\lerchants' Hotel property was The Burdick Hotel. 846 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. purchased by Stinson Hanson, the prosperous son of James Hanson (see sketch), and proprietor of a hvery barn in Aiilton\'ale. The house was re- paired, given a fresh coat of paint, made in good condition throughout and opened to the pubhc by Mrs. E. A. Burdick, who continues its management and conducts the business in a manner that occasions all the guests who patronize her hotel to proclaim its merits. The name of the house was changed to Burdick Hotel, and has become one of the most prosperous hostelries in the county. It is admired for its homelike atmosphere, and Mrs. Burdick's capable' methods of catering to her guests. She is not only gifted as a business woman but is possessed of many admirable traits. Mrs. Burdick is the daughter of Lewis M. Truedell (see sketch), and was practically reared in Clay county near the Cloud county line and has been associated with the people of the Miltonvale vicinity all her life. She is the mother of four children, all of AAhom but one are married and have homes elsewhere. Dora, her youngest child, a charming- little girl of fourteen years, is a general favorite, winning the hearts of all by her simplicity of manner and unusual degree of amiability. A very necessary adjunct and interesting character around the Burdick Hotel is "Jim" who from the sombre blacknesjs that is indelibly printed on his features, must ha\'e been born in the dark of the moon, near the hour of midnight. "Jim" has been a citizen of Miltonvale nearly as long as the town is old, and is the only individual of color in the city; which condition he evidently enjoys. Soon after the opening of the hotel under its present management he was installed as porter, and the way he caters to the guests is entitled to ■.some consideration for its popularity. HONORABLE JOHN SQUIRES. Among the prominent men of j^.tiltonvale is John Squires, the subject rui this narrative. He started on a business career in Miltonvale along with ""W. W. Bright in 1884, under the firm name of Bright &: Scjuires, dealers in implements, coal and grain. In 1889 Mr. Bright withdrew from the firm and in 1892 E. M. Squires became a partner and the father and son have '.since conducted the business, the extent of which takes in a radius of many miles. In the same year (1892) they added to their stock, pumps and wind- m.ills and have done an extensive business in this line. They have also operated a well drilling machine with successful results. This firm is agent for the Champion Buckeye Harvesting machinery, the J. I. Case thresher and the Dempster windmill. Mr. Squires was born in Kentucky, near the city of Lexington, January 4, 1840. \Mien five years of age he went with his parents to Wabash county, Indiana, w here he was reared and received a common school education. He had scarcely attained his majority when he responded to his country's call HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ' 847 for volunteers and in 1862 enlisted in Com])ony A, Seventy-fifth Indiana Volunteer Infantry, under Captain Samuel Steel, ^\'l^o resigned and was suc- ceeded by Captain Isaac McMillan. Mr. Squires saw active service through- out the war. Starting at Louisville, Kentucky, he was in the army of the Cum- berland under the noted General Rosecrans and at Chattanooga under General Thomas and with General Sherman on his famous march to the sea. Mr. Squires entered the service as a corporal and was promoted to first sergeant. He was a non-commissioned officer a greater part of the time during the war. He participated in the battles of Chickamaugua, Missionaiy Ridge, Atlanta .skirmishes and was almost continuously under fire during the entire campaign. The Squires ancestry were early settlers in Virginia. Mr. Squires' maternal ancestors were related to the prominent Taylor family of Connecti- cutt. He is one of six children, three of whom are living, including himself. A. brother, William Squires, is a farmer living in South Dakota, and a sister Mrs. Flory, is living in Indiana. Mr. Squires' parents both died in 1862, his father in February and his mother the following' December. After the war Mr. Squires farmed in Benton county, Iowa, for ten years. In 1877 he came to Kansas and bought the relinquishment of a homestead in Ottawa county, five and one-half miles south of Miltonvale, where he lived until he became identifi.ed with his present interests. He was married in i860 to Mary O. Sampson, of Indiana. To their union have been born four children, Uvo of whom are living. Cora A., wife of Joseph Neill, a farmer living two miles north of Miltonvale. Mrs. Neill is a high school graduate and taught in the schools of Miltonvale; has been organist at the Christian church for several years and has considerable mus- ical talent. E. M., who is associated with liis father, was married in 1892 to Josephine Trople. Thev are the parents of two children, Lois and Emery V. ^Ir. Squires and his family are members of the Church of Christ. Mr. Squires is a pillar in the church, has illled the office of mayor, police judge, councilman and a member of the school board. In political faith he is a Re- publican and in all his busy and useful -careei- has discharged his duties faith- fully, religiously, socially and politically. He has been chaplain of the Mil- tonvale Grand Army of the Republic Post almost since its organization. !Mr. Squires is a man of unquestionable character and one who contrib- utes liberally by ^industry and his stores of a worldly nature to the pros- perity of public ente.'"prises. Mr. Squires' residence is located on Main street, a comfortable seven room house built in 1883. BENJAMIN P. SMITH, M. D. The presait age is the age of the young man. In all the walks of life, and more especially in the west, is this tendency conspicuous. Doctor Smith is a son of S. P. and Elizabeth (Neil) Smith (see sketch ) , and is a Kansan born and bred ; was born in the town of Clyde, November 23, 1879. Fie received a high school education in Miltonvale, 848 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. graduating in 1895. For the three years following he became interested with his father in farming and stock raising, but deciding to abandon farm life, he entered the American school of Osteopathy in Kirksville, Missouri, in 1898, and received the degree of Doctor of Osteopathy in 1900. He be- gan the practice of his profession in Clinton, Missouri, July 13, 1900. At the expiration of one year, he returned to Aliltonvale, and opened an office where he has given successful treatments ; but owing to the science being yet in its infancy, the people require being educated up to it. Os- teopathy was discovered in its first germs of truth by Doctor Andrew T. Still, of Kirksville, Missouri. His first statement of the discovery met only with ridicule and abuse. Xo one believed him. He was branded as a fraud, a pretender and impudent quack. Time passed on ; through poverty and con- tempt, he bravely held his own, fought down the opposition of the unthink- ing until now we ha\e in Osteopathy a science, not perfect, but in a fair way to become so ; a science now recognized by more than one state in this repub- lic as a legitimate method of healing diseases and deformity. A science which recognizes no compromise with drugs, in which the healing art reaches the highest pinnacle of approximation to nature. By only the human body to heal itself, using the means which the Almighty has put in the human body to restore natural conditions where these are absait. They contend the body is perfect. ^Vhen in a natural condition we are in health; when all is not as it ought to be, when the adjustment is at fault, if such a term might be used in speaking of tlie intricate, animate, sentient machine, which we call "man." The Osteopath corrects the abnormality, regulates the amount and flow of blood, strengthens or diminishes the amount of ner\'e force traveling through the various channels without any adventitious aid from drugs. Health, absent solely through the presence of the abnormality, returns on the righting of the wrong. That the Osteopaths can and are doing these things every day, is a demonstrated truth. Osteopathy is practiced in all the states, and sixteen of them have legislative enactment to that effect. — [Doctor B. P. Smith has entered the Medico-Chirurgical College of Kansas City, since the above matter was compiled. He will not abandon the science of Osteopathy l)y any means, but will finish a course in the Medical College that he may administer either successfully in his practice. — Editor. HONORABLE AV T. MATHEWS. AA'hen the annals of this section shall have been written for permanent record the name of "\A^ils" ^lathews, as he is known to his friends, will be mentioned as the first postmaster, and one of the earliest to engage in mer- chandising in the cit\- of Milto^^'ale. AA^ith the courage and perseverance that marked the early settlers of Kansas he struggled vrith the fickle goddess of fortune, throug'h the quicksands and vicissitudes of various enterprises, and HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 849 9 relates his experience in a way that bears with them the conviction that he made history. He became a citizen of Cloud county in 1873 and took up a homestead two and three-quarters miles northeast of the present town of Miltonvale; his two brothers, James and George, following a few weeks later. They are also residents of Miltonvale and have extensive business interests there. They gave up the ghost at one time and wandered back to their old Missouri home, but finding no satisfactory opening there they "screwed up" their cour- age and returned to Kansas. In 1 881 Mr. Mathews opened a counLry store. The following year the railroad was built and he brought his stock of goods to the town site of Miltonvale and has since been a prominent factor of the town. He has met with many reverses but there are few enterprises that do not have their dark days. In 1883 his store along with the whole block was bumed to the ground with' a loss to him of over $3)000; in the autumn of the same year he became associated with his father and bought the grocery business of James McCloud which they sold in 1885. Mr. Mathews then became interested along with his brother George and Mr. Bond and erected an elevator under the firm name of Mathews & Bond, Mr. Mathews owning one-half interest. In 1893 it was set on fire by a spark from a Santa Fe engine. They were awarded a small amount of insurance, but before judgment was passed the railroad went into the hands of a receiver. They pressed tlieir claim carrying it to the Supreme court, where they were awarded damages and insurance, but lost $3,600 in the deal. As if to make the old maxim good, "Misfortunes never come singly," he then went into the cattle feeding business and when he shipped them upon the market the following April, came out $1,500 in debt and a mortgage on his home. Although unfortunate in his investments he continued to buy, feed and ship cattle and made some shipments that netted him $2,000 and more. In the meantime he operated an extensive implement business which has endured until the present writing and he is recognized as one of the most successful salesman in the county. In 1901 one of his implement houses was demol- ished by a wind storm. Mr. Mathews also has a war record. In 1864 a flaxen haired youth of fifteen years, he ran away from home and enlisted in the army, but his am- bitions were curtailed by the ending of hostilities. In his earlier life he learned the blacksmith trade which served him well in the early days of Kansas, for money was not so current then as in late years and the transfer of goods was as often based on the primitive mode of exchange as on cash value. We will briefly state a deal he made with a Frenchman which reveals something of his ingenuity in that direction and how after driving cattle a few months the earlv settlers would sacrifice much for a team of horses. The 8 so HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Frenchman had two yoke of faith £nl plodding oxen that had turned the sod of his homestead and were for sale or trade. Mr. Mathews had a span of old "plug" horses which he dressed up in brand new harness gorgeous with red trimmings. He sallied out to meet the Frenchman and after the dickering customary to such trades the bargain was closed, Mr. Mathews getting the two yoke of cattle along with a barrel of molasses, two dozen chickens (equivalent to legal tender in those days), a cow and two calves, with corn enough to feed all winter, in fact the Frenchman had but little left save his wife. Mr. Alathews is a native of I.ogansport, Indiana, where he was born in 1848. \Mien three years of age his parents moved to Iowa and six years subsequently to Adair county, Missouri, where he was reared on a farm. His father is Elias Mathews who was a North Carolinian by birth but came to Indiana in his early childhood. In 1850 he crossed the plains to California where he mined successfully for three years, but most of his life has been spent farming. He is spending his declining years alternately with his children, his wife having died in 1898. She was Sarah E. Covey, a native of Indiana. To their union eight children were born, six of whom are living. Besides James and George, already mentioned, there is a brother in Birming- ham, Alabama, and one a resident physician of New York City, and two sis- ters in Kirksville, Missouri. W. T. Mathews was married in 1872 to Anna Raredon and the following year came to Kansas, where all their children except the eldest were born. The first son, Victor T., is a graduate of the Miltonvale high school. He is an electrician and engineer who deserves great credit, as he acquired the pro- fession by practical application, the outgrowth of which secured him a lucra- tive position with the Electric Light and Water Works Company of Marengo, Iowa. He has been with them four years. Arthur W., the second son, is married and lives in Washington, Kansas. They have two children, a son and daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Mathews have four daughters, viz : Ida, wife of Fred Kuhnle, who have one child, a son ; Clara, wife of I. J. Bumgardner, a farmer, six miles from Miltonvale; Laura, who keeps books in her father's store, and Blanche, a little school girl. Mr. Mathews served three terms as mayor of Miltonvale, is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and of the Order of the Select Knights. He has one of the best homes in the city, is a man of genial and cordial manner and one who in the earlier settlement of the county must have contributed much good cheer, regardless of hardships and misfortunes. Time has not dealt harshly with him and he is still a hale- fellow— well-met-western-man. TELEPHONE SYSTEM OF MILTONVALEl A year prior to the organization of the Miltonvale Telephone Company Fredrick Koster established a rural telephone line for the use of his tenants, connecting his residence in Miltonvale with the following ranches, viz : The HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 851 "Slarkey ranch," six miles southwest of the city; the "Koster Home ranch," the "Fletcher ranch," and the farms of R. H. Burns and G. W. Shroyer. In June, 1901, the Milton vale Telephone Company was organized, with Fredrick Koster as owner and manager, his daughter, Ella M. Ivoster, secre- tary, and his son, John F. Koster, treasurer. They started with twenty- orders, but by the time they were ready to begin operations they had increased to thirty-five. They now have twenty-five miles of toll line and fifty-five local phones, with the central office at the drug store of George R. Barth'ick. With the connection they have with other lines and companies, they can communi- cate with almost any point within a radius of one hundred and fifty miles, with good results. Concordia has two lines running into Miltonvale, but not connected, only as neighbors, the Miltonvale system being an independent local phone. ]\Ir. Koster, however, has a project on to build up an exchange of one hundred and fifty phones, including a rural system much desired h\ farm ers in outlying districts, and that will connect with all towns in noi'thern and central Ivansas ; and we may add here that Mr. Koster is a man who does not inaugurate projects without seeing them through. In establishing the tele- phone he filled a long felt want with the people of his town and will keep the industry up to its fullest requirements. They use the grounded system and the Kellogg phone. SORFN PETERSON SMITH. Destiny did the proper thing when she ordained that such men as S. P. Smith's stamp should assist in laying the foundation of this western country. Mr. Smith was born in the village of Hoirup, in Schleswig, a province of Denmark, in 1850: he re- mained in his native land un- til early in the year of 1870, when he came, accompanied by his brother. Judge C. P. Smith, of Concordia, who is four years his senior, to the Great Republic. As a result of the war between Prussia and Denmark, their territory was set aside into Germany, and rather than enter the Prussian army against their own countrv, thev left their fatherland and came to America. After working two years in Keokuk, Iowa, and Hamilton, Illinois, the_\- came to Cloud county, Kansas, and took a homestead in Colfax township, dug a hole in the hillside 16x24 feet, the primitive Kansas dugout, and appropriated the boards of a de- S. p. Smith's Miltonvale Residence. 852 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. serted shanty from Avhich they manufactured furniture. Their chairs were made of cottonwood logs with holes bored in and pins cut out of wood inserted for legs. Here they experienced for five years all the hardships of the aver- age early settler. I'hey came to the New \A''orkr to seek their fortunes with no capital, but vigorous physiques, industry and thrift — the heritage of their race. They had but one pocket-book between them, which -was empty most of the time ddring that period. They secured employment by excavating for cellars, digging w^ells, etc. Their larder was sometimes reduced tO' corn- bread made of water and meal, and this meag-er diet did not stick tO' the ribs of men who were doing manual labor, and they would often liave to resort to a lunch between times. For six months they were without flour. These brothers were from a race of blacksmiths and had served an apprenticeship with their father in the old country, and in the early '70s they bought the smithing outfit of a neighbor on six month's credit (paid before due), dug a hole in the ground, leaving an opening in the roof for the smoke to escape; thus establishing a blacksmith shop. From this they began to prosper and improve their homesteads. In 1873, they had an experience not unusual to the old timer. The road overseer had ordered the grass burned oft" along the side of the road, and being inexperienced in back-firing, they could not control the fire, and the flames swept in fury over the homestead and on to the Republican river, doing much damage. Financially this accident crippled the Smiths badly, as they had to furnish feed to some of the settlers, M'hose haj- was destroyed and flour to a widow whose wheat stacks were burned. In the autumn of of 1876, S. P. Smith sold some of his belongings and bought a blacksmitli shop in Clyde, and shortl}- afterwards sold his home- stead. Subsequently, the two brothers formed a partnership and prospered there for several years. In 1880, they erected a one-story brick building, 26x50 feet in dimensions A\ith three fires and a \\ooden shop in the rear. They became widely known as the manufacturers of the "Tom Clipper," a square cut breaking plows the first in this counti^. They paid a royalty of two dol- lars for the privilege of making them. In 1882, Mr. Smith sold his business interests in Clyde and traded his residence for a farm in Starr township, two miles north of Miltonvale, which he still owns. This is a ^vell watered, Avell stocked, and \\'ell improved farm of one himdred and sixty acres, \vith modern residence and other inipro\'e- ments. In 1901, he bought the "Miller" residence property in Miltonvale. Prior to this time, however, he had resided alternately in Miltonvale and on the farm. For several years Mr.' Smith has operated a shop in Miltonvale and by his untiring industry and strict integrity he has earned a reputation throughout this community and his workmanship has brought him patronage that no agency can divert so long as his shop is open for business. He does general blacksmithing in all its branches. Mr. Smith's parents were Peter Christian Smith and Karen Soren's "dotter" (as it is expressed in Denmark). HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 853 Mr. Smith was named for his maternal grandfather, Soren Peterson Smith, while his brother. Christian vSmith, being the eldest son, was named for his paternal grandfather. Christian Peterson Smith. The parents joined their sons in America in 1883. The father was born in Denmark in 1819, and died- in 1891. The mother was born in 1817, and died in 1894. Besides these two sons there were three daughters, Marg;aret, wife of Neils Thompson, of Palmer, Washington county, Kansas. The second sister died at the age of twenty-six, unmarried. Caroline was married in Daamark and came to America with her parents and is a resident of Belleville, Kansas. S. P. Smith was married December 25, 1878, to Elizabeth Neil, a daugh- ter of Benjamin Neil. She was born in Magherlaggen, County Down, Ire- land, and came with her ]jarents to this county when seven years of age, and has practically been reared in the "Sunflower State." Benjamin Neil, or "Uncle Benny'' as he is called by his neighbors and friends, was a son of the "ould sod," bom on the Emerald Isle in County Down in 1820. In his earlier life he was a miller but later followed farming. "Uncle Benny" was a man who possessed a store of valuable information ; a man of honorable and upright character, and his familiar face was missed by the people of Miltonvale when July 31, 1804, he was called to his final resting place. He died at the age of seventy-four years, less nine days. An illustration of "Uncle Benny's" reputation for honesty and integrity is told in the following: He had plodded along" for years and could not acquire more land, other than his homestead. There was an adjoining farm for sale and he was sadly in need of more land, but had not the wherewith to buy. In speaking of it to a neighbor, Dave Ferguson, who \\'as anfl is e\-er ready to help a friend, told him he would loan him his farm; so "Uncle Benny" was given a deed, mortgaged his friend's farm and bought the land. In a few years he lifted the mortgage and deeded it back to its generous and magnanimous owner. "A friend in need is-a friend indeed," but such demonstrations as this' do not occur often in the history of a man's lifetime. Mrs. Smith's mother was Fanny (McI'J.oberts) Neil and died nearly thirty years ago. She was born in Ireland in 1832. The Neil family came to America in 1870, and after living in A\'estiield, New York, three years came to Cloud county and settled in Starr township. There are nine children, all but one of whom are living in Cloud county — Mary Clegg, of Billings, Montana. Mrs. Smith's brothers are Jim, Joe and George Neil, all farmers near Miltonvale. The sisters are Mrs. Catherine Barber, Mrs. Fanny Shay and Mrs. Sarah Anderson, all of Miltonvale, and Mrs. Anna Woodruff, of Clyde; two sisters deceased, Margaret and Matilda, both of whom were young unmarried women. To Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Smith, eight children have been born, seven of whom are living. They are Benjamin P. Smith (see sketch), Carrie M., a successful Cloud county teacher. She was educated in the schools of Mil- tonvale, receiving a Cloud county common school diploma. In 1901, she taught in district No. 36 where she had an enrollment of forty pupils. She 854 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. has been employed for the present year in the gTammar grade of the Mihon- va!e school. Ray, deceased in infancy; Fannie and Juanita, two bright little girls of ten and twelve years; George B., a manly little fellow of five years; Azile, aged three, and an infant son born on the first day of the year, 1903. Mr. Smith is a Republican in politics and cast his first vote for Gaieral Grant. He is interested and takes an active part in city and educational affairs; has been a member of the city council, and on the school board almost continuously for many years ; he is one of the directors of the Drover State Bank. He and his family are members and regular attendants as well as workers in the Christian church. Mr. Smith served five years as superinten- dent of the Sunday-school and to his ardent interest it owes in no small degree its success. In concluding, it is but a fitting tribute to say of Mr. Smith he is a Christian gentleman who lives his religion every day, and whose pride and ambition centers in his family and his home, that brings to him the peace of soul, that money cannot buy nor poverty dissipate. HONORABLE LEWIS M. TRUDELL. One of the old settlers and retired farmers no\\- living in Miltonvale is Lewis M. Trudell, the subject of this sketch. Mr. Trudell was born in Ver- mont in 1830. His parents were James and Bridget (Crapo) Trudell, both of French origin. James Trudell came from France to Canada when a )'oung man and settled in the Province of Quebec, subsecjuently moving to Franklin county, Vermont, where he farmed in the Green Mountain country until his death in 1867. His wife died ten years later. Lewis M. Trudell was one of eleven children, four of whom are living, viz: Eli, a farmer of Clay county, Kansas, and two sisters in Franklin county, Vermont. ^Mr. Trudell began his career by working on a farm and after several years bought a backwoods farm of two hundred and forty acres and in 1855 chopped the first tree to build his cabin. In 1869 he came to Illi- nois and settled in Henr}' county, where he farmed rented land four years. In 18/3 he came to Kansas and took up a claim in the western part of Clay county, one mile distant from the Cloud county line, where he built a sort of "stone stockade," covered with dirt, and lived in true pioneer style for four years. In 1888 he traded his farm for a livery stable in Miltonvale, which he conducted profitably for eleven years and sold to his son, who, in turn, sold two years later to its present proprietor, James Stelter. In 1890 Air. Trudell bought a cozy residence property, where he and his amiable wife are spending their declining years. Mr. Trudell owns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Starr township — the original Adams homestead. In 1849 ^^i"- Trudell was married to Delia Domina, of Franklin county, Vermont. Her parents were Canadian by birth and of French origin. Mr. and Mrs. Trudell ha\-e had born to them seven children, five of whom are liv- ing, viz: ]\Ioses L., of Idana, Kansas, where he owns and operates an eleva- %Mki9«^ jff'-»''>S'' ;;ii;;!'ili'; •' HHHJIJIte^ s^^ ■■ ''^^^^^vf ^^^^^^K-'- : , The Koster Home in Miltonvale. 1872 and settled on a homestead in Ottawa county, near Lamar. To this union have been born seven children, six of whom are living, viz: Cora ^L, the eldest daughter, was married April 29, 1902, to Brooks Johnson, a young business man of Tulsa, Indian Territory, and formerly of Mexico, Missouri. Mrs. Johnson is a thorough business woman and has charge of the Mercantile affairs in Tulsa. She graduated from the Salina Commercial Col- 86o HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. lege October 24, 1896. Jessie R., wife of VV. H. Shroyer, a stock feeder and shipper, with residence in :\Iiltonvale. They are the happy parents of one child, a little daughter, Eva 2\'Iay. Ella graduated from the Salina Commer- cial College in 1900. She is secretary of the Miltonvale Telephone Company. Ola, a student on last year of high school course in Miltonvale. John F., a young man of sixteen years, is a studeit of the Miltonvale high school, and is a valuable assistant to his father in the telephone operations. George M., a little son of four years. Mr. Koster's daughters are talented in music, active in church work and a valuable acquisition to Miltonvale society. While not a man to squander his money in ostentatious living, Mr. Koster gives his children every ad- A-antage that money can secure, and lives in one of the handsomest residences- in the county, known as the "Banker Davis property," which he purchased in 1892, and has since 'made INIiltonvale his home. The house is modern and contains eight rooms. This home is admired for its wide green lawn and beautiful shade trees of soft maple and box-elder. Mr. Koster is a Republican in politics; has held the office of mayor in Miltonvale and served as council- man and on the school board. Fie is not only widely known as an able busi- ness man and a public-spirited citizen, but foremost in any enteqjrise pertain- ing to the best interests of his town or county. He is a man of resourceful energy and nowhere ha\-e we found a better demonstration of what a man with pluck and energy can do in Kansas. ]\Ir. Koster is a prominent Mason and has been through all the chairs of the Ancient Order United Workmen. ' J. W. SFIAY. Among the men in the vicinity of Milton\'ale who have accumulated a comfortable competency in a comparatively short time is J. W. Shay, of the firm of Shay & McArthur, attorneys, collectors and real estate dealers. ^Ir, Shay came to Kansas in 1868 and settled in Lewisburg, Miami county, where he engaged in the milling business until 1874. At the expiration of that time he came to Cloud county and homesteaded land six miles west of the east corner of the southern line of the county. He sold this land in 1882 and en- gaged in the milling business with the firm, of Shay, Catlin & Angelo, who were succeeded in 1884 by .Shay & Angelo, and continued until 1886, when the mill was burned to the ground. They ran until six o'clock and about mid- night the mill was a total wreck, only partially covered by insurance. The loss to the company was twelve thousand dollars. The mill was a good prop- erty, with a capacity of fifty barrels of flour per day and a grain elevator in connection. This loss crippled ^Mr. Shay financially and he was over twa thousand dollars in debt, paying two per cent, interest on the greater part of it. In 1886 he established himself in the real estate business and since that time, by diligent application, he has acquired four hundred and eighty acres of land, which he has improved, built a handsome residence, god-d outbuild- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 86 1 ings, and the farm is well supplied with implements and machinery. He also has a fine herd of about one hundred graded shoi'thorn cattle. ^h: Shay is a native of Crawford county, Ohio, born in 1846. His fa- ther was Daniel Shay, a native of Virginia, and when a young man came to Ohio and gained a livelihood by farming. The Shays, as the name implies, arC' of Irish origin. His mother was Sarah Warden. Her people were from Virginia. Mr. Shay is one of eight children, six boys and two girls. He and a sister, Isabelle Bishop, of Jefferson county, Nebraska, are the only surviving members. Mr. Shay served about four months near the close of the war. His four brothers were in the army. William was killed at Franklin, Tenn- essee. The other three died from one to five years later from diseases con- tracted during the service. ^Ir. Shay was married in 1877 to Francessa Neill. They are the parents of five children : John, the eldest son, and Jesse are graduates of the Milton- vale school, and these two boys operate the farm. Fannie is a graduate of .the ]\Iiltonvale school. George and James are both students of the high school. ]\Ir. Shay has always supported the principles of the Republican party. He has filled the office of police judge and justice of the peace. He has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since 1882. Mr. Shay is an auctioneer and can get as much money out of a sale as any man in the county. The family are among the leading people, socially, of their com- munity. JAMES McARTHUR. The subject of this sketch is James Mc Arthur, an attorney, the only man of his profession in the town of Miltonvale that has been admitted to the bar. He is associated with Mr. Shay in collection and real estate ^leals, under the firm name of Shay 8z Mc Arthur. Mr. Mc Arthur is a native of Scotland, born in Paisley, now a suburb of Glasgow, in 1848. At that time there were a dozen miles between Glasgow and his native town, the space now being built up in a solid city. His father was John McArthur, a shawl maker, working in the factory at Paisley, where the celebrated Paisley shawls are manufac- tured. When INIr. M.cArthur was two years old he came with his father's family to America and settled in North Adams, Massachusetts, where his fa- ther died -in 1857. His mother was Jane Gillespie. She was born near Edin- burg, Scotland. She died in North Adams in 1892. Mr. McArthur is one of three hving children : A sister in Chicago and one in North Adams. At the age of fifteen years Mr. McArthur enlisted in the United States ariny in 1863, but was not accredited until 1864. His first i-egimental service was in the battle of tlie Wilderness, when he was but sixteen years old. He was slightly wounded at Cold Harbor. He was in the battles of Spottsylvania and with Sheridan on his famous ride. He saw active and hard service and after the first battle would have welcomed gladly a return home. After the war he returned to Massachusetts and subsecjuently to AMsconsin, where a sis- 862 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ter had preceded him. In 1873-4 he read law in the office (jf George X. Craw- ford, of Omaha, Ndjraska. Shortly afterward he entered the mail service; was stationed in Texas, where he remained until 1882 and came to Clyde, where he formed a partnership with the law firm of Cornforth & Gray. Early in the year 1885 he was admitted to the bar in Concordia, and a few months later became associated with Charles Proctor in the real estate business and was very successful. Mr. J\Ic Arthur was married in A\'isconsin, in 1869, to ^laria McDonald, a daughter of Edward and Hannah :McDonald, of Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Their family consists of six interesting children. ;\lr. McArthur is a Republican politically and is an active politician. He was a candidate during his residence in Nebraska for representative of his district, at the age of twenty-six years. His opponent was elected liy only four votes. He is a member of Clyde Lodge, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and of the Washington Chapter at Huston, Texas. ^Ir. }iIcArthur is a man of pleasing address, genial man- ner and a highly esteemed citizen. ' HONORABLE H. J. PRENTISS. having The subject of this sketch is H. vale and dealer in grain and coal, ton vale since the autumn of 1890. Chicago Lumber Companv Glasco to Aliltonvale. He was in their employ from 1885 until 1895, when he be- came associated with Frank Stanton, in the Miltonvale Grain Company. In 1899 he bought the interest of ]\Ir. and J. Prentiss, the present mayor of Milton- Mr. Prentiss has been a resident of }ilil- He was at that time manager for the been transferred from their yards at Light ele- a storing thousand Stanton. He leases operates the H. (1 vator, which has capacity of • five bushels. ]\Ir. Prentiss is a smi of Kentucky, born in !\Ionterey in i860, but was practically reared in Frankfort, where he was educated in the com- mon schools and learned the trade of miller. In the autumn of 1884 he came to Kansas and after stopping in Centralia a few months, entered the employ of the Chicago Lumber Company at Belleville. Mr. Prentiss" father was Luther S. Prentiss, of ^^lassachusetts. born in 181 5. Fle was an engineer on a ]\Iissis- sippi river steamer. In 1849 ^^ went overland to California, where he was Handsome Cottage Home of Honorable H. J. Prentiss HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 863 employed to put in .mining machinery. He came to Kansas in 1888 and died in January, 1896. Mr. Prentiss is one of eiglit children, three of whom are living: A brother in Kentucky and a sister in -Kansas City. His mother was Charlotte A. Ross, of Frankfort, Kentucky, born iNIay 2c,, 1821, and died July 3, 1891. The Prentiss and Ross families were slaveholders in Kentucky. Luther S. Prentiss was a Union man and after he freed his slaves they stayed with him. H. J. Prentiss learned his alphabet from a slave, who cut them on a shinigle. Mr. Prentiss was married in August, 1886, to Virginia A. Graber, of Iowa. She was visiting an uncle when she met and was married to Mr. Pren- tiss. They liave two daughters, Nora, aged twehe. and Ruth, aged ten. In 1901 Mr. Prentiss bought the residence property of C. E. McDaniel, one of the best homes in Aliltonvale, a cottage of eight rooms, modern bath room and water connections, a fine lawn and trees, irrigated from the well. Mr. Pren- tiss has thirty-three acres of ground with residence adjacent to Miltonvale. Politically he is a Democrat and has been a member of the council several times and served as police judge. He is a member of the Ancient Order United Workmen and has been through all the chairs of that order, being at present overseer. He is also a member of the Triple Tie. WILLIAM A. FARR, :M. D. Dr. Farr, one of the leading physicians of Miltonvale, was born in Shelby county, Missouri, near Leonard, in 1871. He is a son of Frederick M. and Frances A. (Turner) Farr. Doctor Farr"s paternal grandfather was Benja- min Farr. He was educated for a Christian minister, but went to California from his Kentucky home during the gold excitement, and subsecjuentlv to Texas, where he died of yellow fever. The Turners were an old Virginia family who came to Missouri in an early day and where Frances Turner was born. Her father was a "Hard Shell" Baptist preacher, and combined preach- ing with farming. Dr. Farr was educated in the country schools and after ten months in the Kirksville Normal School, he began a career in the country districts, teaching in winter and farming in summer. In 1895 he entered the University of Kansas City, continuing his farming operations in summer to increase his fund for school tuition. He graduated in 1898 and began the practice of med- icine at Qifton, Kansas, where he became associated with Doctor D. C. Ty- ler, a physician of long practice there, remaining five months. A year subse- quently an opening was made at Miltonvale through the death of Doctor Fairchild, and Doctor Farr located there in 1899. He started in as a young physician, but is getting his share of the patronage as a general practitioner. Doctor Farr was married December 2j, 1899, to Nellie Sanders, a daugh- ter of W. C. Sanders, a merchant of Clifton, Kansas, formerly of Ithaca, New York, where Mrs. Farr was born and lived until fourteen years of age, when ^64 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. her parents came to Clifton, wliere her father engaged in the mercantile busi- ness. Doctor and Mrs. Farr have one child, \\'illiam Frederick, born Decem- ber 21, 1901. Doctor Farr is a Democrat, ^^Jodern Woodman of America, a member of the order of P5rotherhood of America and of the board of coun- cilmen. He is enjoying a lucrative practice in ]\[ilton\'ale, -where he has built and made a comfortable home. J. W. IdOXEY. , J. ^^^ Honey, editor of the Milton\'ale Record, a newsy little sheet, well patronized by business men through its advertising columns, is a Kansan by birth and breeding. He was bom near Fort Riley in 1865. His father, B. V. lioney, was one of the state's old pioneers, settling near Fea^'enworth in 1858, and a few years later located near ]-"ort Rile}-, where he lived until 1868. In that year he came to Elk township and settled on Dry creek, subse- cjuently moving into Clyde, where he started a blacksmith shop and soon afterward en- gag'ed in the mercantile business and became a prominent merchant. In the early days, before the founding of Clyde, Mr. Honey took an active part in church and Sabbath school work. B. V. Honey was an old A^ermonter. He died in Clyde April 22, 1890, at the age of sixty- five years. He was twice married. His first wife was Martha L. Curtis, who died, leaving a daughter. In 1847 li^ ^^'^s married to Miss Laura Morley, who survives him and lives alternately among her children, of whom there are six. J. AA'. Honey came with his parents to Clyde when he was three years of age, where he ^\'as educated in the graded schools and lived until three years ago. Mr. Honey is also a photographer and has a well patronized gallery in Milton^•ale. He was married in 18S9 to Edith N. Florer, who was born in Iowa, but has lived in Kansas since she was two years old. She is associate editor and assists in photography. To Mr. and :\Irs. Honey have been born four children, two daughters and one son living, the eldest child being de- ceased. Air. Honey is a Republican and advocates those principles in his paper. He IS a member of the Modem AA'oodmen of America. :AIr. and Mrs. Honey are meml:ers and regular attendants of the Alethodist Episcopal church. Addenda — Air. Honey has recently s^ld his interests in the Miltonvale Record. Mr. and Mrs. B. V. Honey. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 865 S. V. FAIRCHILD, M. D. The late Doctor S. V. Fairchild, one of Milton\-ale's most prominent cit- izens, was born in the state of New York, Tune 26, 1853, and died November 26. 1898. Doctor Fairchild received his medical education early in life and came to Kansas to establish himself in his chosen, profession. He was a hard student, attending medical institutes and colleges, thus keeping abreast with the times. He was a skillful physician, a big hearted man, and in sickness or adversity a true friend. His many deeds of charity and kindness will live of the people of Miltonvale. His many deeds of charity and kindness will live in the hearts of the people as a monument to his memory for many years to come. . His funeral \A'a5 conducted by the Woodmen Lodge, of which he was a member. The march to the cemetery was led by the Woodmen on foot, then came the choir and hearse, followed by the Doctor's team with his lap robe, hat, badge and medicine case. The scene was an impressive and effective one. pressive and effective one. WIITJAM ZAHN. The first settler in Starr township was William Zahn, the subject of this sketch, who settled on a homestead where he now resides in 1867. During his early residence there his little sons would gain some high point of land from where they could look over the surrounding country and inc|uire of their fatlier how much of the land within their vision he possessed. Mr. Zahn would reply, with a Avave of the hand, "Just as far as you can see," and he indeed felt as if it were, for the idea that so wild a waste of boundless prairie could ever be desired by settlers, was foreign to him. They had no neighbors except an old trapper who lived in a dugout under a big oak, on the bank of the creek, by the name of I'iitany. }ilr. Zahn is a native of Prussia, Germany, born in 1825, and emigrated to America in 1850. He had served three years in the war cavalry of Ger- many and after coming to America received a position in the military riding school at Hoboken, New Jersey. Finding all the avenues of employment or business closed by competition he decided to come west. He was married in Germany and with his wife and three children emigrated to Kansas. At Junction City, the terminus of the railroad, he bought two yoke of oxen and not being accustomed to driving cattle, he secured the service of a driver. They arrived in Starr township in a snow storm on April 10, 1867. Mr. Zahn had preceded his family a few weeks prior, built a dugout and returned for them. Their dugout was built on the bank of the creek. A short time afterward a cloud burst occurred and the inmates were compelled to make their escape through a M'indow as the door opened out to the flood. They waded in \\'ater waist deep to get to the upland, and man)- of their goods were floated away. They then built on higher ground. Early in the seventies they 866 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. were again delnged by a flood, whicli did much damage, carrying away their granary. The lowlands were a seething flood for miles. They had built a stone house soon after tiieir arrival and a son was sleeping on a straw mattress in the basement. The first apprisal he had of the overflow was the sensation of being carried around the room on his bed of straw. The cattle were swmi- ming in the flood to places of safety, but none were lost. In 1870 Mr. Zahn erected a massive stone structure, 20x40 feet in the clear, with basement and two floors above. During this period emigration was rushing in and this was headquarters for all manner of entertainment, dances, theaters and Fourth of July picnics were all held there. The Zahn settlement was designated as Zahnsville and -was the center of amusement. A home talent theatrical company known, as "Pipe Creek Theatrical Troupe," gave some very interesting entertainments there. They had a good band, known as the "Zahnsville String Band." After the theater the improvised stage and seats would be removed and dancing would follow. Everybody at- tended, "with his mother, and his sisters, and his cousins, and his aunts." It was also the "halfway place" or inn, for the settlers en route to Cla}- Cen- ter, or Junction City. For several years these were their nearest trading places, often taking more than a week to go and come to Junction Cit}- over the roadless prairies and bridgeless streams. The country at that time abounded with elk, deer and antelope and an occasional buffalo. Mr. Zahn trapped many beaver, otter and coyotes, making it a profitable industry for several years. They had many Indian scares. One day Charles and his sister remained at home with their father, who was ill, while the other members of the family were away, and about forty Indians put in an appearance. Three of their number came inside and with their bowie knives began whittling the chairs. Mr. Zahn bravely arose and secured his gun, which he drew on them. Charles and his sister in the meantime had slipped out and notified the neighbors, who hastily gathered together and drove them away. Many Indians camped along the creeks, drying and curing their meats obtained on the hunt. Mr. Zahn underwent many rare experiences and struggled ^\'ith destiny for several years. ^Vhile on his return home from Junction City with a supph- of provisions he was caught in a deluging rain. \A'liile attempting to cross a swollen stream the vehicle was upset and the one hundred dollars' worth of groceries were swq^t away — a severe loss at that time. One hundred dollars at the present time would almost purchase the wh.ole stock of many of the pioneer stores, but an ordinary wash tub held all of ]\[r. Zahn's purchases upon this event. Mr. Zahn was married in Germany in 1848 to Henrietta Wenzel. Of their eight children but two are now living, William and Charles. Four lived to maturity. William, the oldest son, is a farmer and lives just over the line in Ottawa county, where he owns two hundred acres of land and raises stock extensi^•ely. Charles lives ()n the homestead with his father since the death of their mother in July. 1900, but owns one hundred and sixty acres of land which lie homesteaded, adjoining his father on the north. It is a well watered HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 867 farm with a variety of fruit trees which bear abundantly. In 1892 he was mar- ried to Margaret Emihne Diller, the daughter of Martin Diller. The Dihers were among the early settlers of Cloud county. He took a homestead near Meredith and died shortly afterward. A sister, Anna Zahn Stocks, died in the spring of 1882, leaving a husband and four children. A son, Otto Zahn, died about seven years ago, leaving a wife and six children. He ran away from home at the age of fifteen years, went into the army and later joined a scouting party in Colorado. The Zahn children were educated at home. The first school they attended was seven miles distant and while en route they were in mortal terror of Indians and the coyotes. For several years the Zahns found wheat raising most profitable, but finally went back to corn again, which they have raised along with oats and I>arley. Several years their corn has yielded sixty-five bushels to the acre on the uplands and far better on the Ixittom land. In 1901, the poorest corn year that Cloud county has known for many years, they raised eight thousand bushels of com on one hundred acres of ground. They have hauled corn to Clay Center, receiving only ten cents per bushel. They keep a herd of about eighty head of native cattle. It is natural to suppose Mr. Zahn, having had the choice of homesteads, would select. a good one, and such is the case. It is one of the finest farms in Starr township, watered by Chapman creek, a never failing stream. The historical big stone house stands as a monument on a high prominence of ground and can be seen for many miles distant in either direction — a reminder of the much good cheer it brought to the early settlers. The Zahns are industrious, thrifty and honest German people. Mrs. Zahn was missed in the community where she had lived so many years and where many of the well-to-do people of the neighborhood have been recipients of her kindness in the early days. Many of the settlers were poor and her charitv was ne\'er withheld. She gave with a bountiful hand. JAMES HANSOX. James Hanson, the subject of this sketch, is one of the very first settlers of Starr tbwnship. \lr. Hanson does not boast of a line of distinguished an- cestry, nor coat of arms on the panel of his door, but lives in the original dug- out, which is a home in the truest sense of the word. The hopes of his life were frustrated in the loss of his wife, who died in 1873, leaving Mr. Hanson with six children that he has raised with much credit. The quaintly primitive dugout, where he will likely spend his declining years, is a model of neatness and comfort. Picturesquely shadowed by a giant cottonwood planted by his own hand and under whose clustering branches, after the daily task set free, he enjoys life in undisturbed repose. Mr. Hanson came to Cloud county in 1870 and homesteaded the land where he now lives, one and three-c[uarter miles southeast of jNIiltonvale. He is a native son of Ireland, born in 1825. AVhen forty-five years 868 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. of age he came to America, accompanied by his wife and five children. After stopping brief intervals in Indiana and Illinois he came to Cloud county, Kan- sas, leaving his family in Lawrence, and after taking up his claim returned, bringing them back with him, feeling as if he had the whole world to himself. He has always been a farmer and is well contented that he came to Kansas. He owns two hundred and sixty acres of land, but is practically retired, his son managing his affairs. Mr. Hanson says the chief lesson of prosperity to a farmer in Kansas was, if he raised a crop to save enough for the next year in the event of a drouth or other disaster. His crops have failed but twice in the thirty-two years of his sojourn in Kansas — one by grasshoppers and the other by chinch bugs. His chief industry is raising corn, hogs, horses and cattle, the latter of the native and Hereford breeds. Mr. Hanson's parents were Edward and Mary (McClean) Hanson, both natives of Ireland, and died there. Mr. Haiison was married to Eliza- beth Edmons, who was also a native of Ireland, and to this union six children were born, all of whom are li^'ing and Mr. Llanson says, "They are all doing well, and never Voted the Populist ticket." The eldest daughter, Jane, is the wife of David Furgeson, a farmer of Cloud county; Mary, wife of Benjamin Harrison, a farmer of Nebraska; William, who owns a farm adjoining his father's; John lives with his father and operates the farm; his family consists of a wife and little daughter. Stinson, who lives in Miltonvale, and owns some good property there, including the Burdick Hotel ; Edward, a farmer and successful stockman of Oklahoma. Mr. Hanson was reared in the Episcopal church, under the High Church discipline. He is a man of integrity and unquestioned honor, whose word could be taken unreservedly. He is proud of his children, loyal to his friends, and has many admirable characteristics scarcely known outside of the family circle. He is eccentric, but entertaining and humorous, possessing to the full- est degree the famous "mother wit" of his country. JAMES H. BURBANK. One of the most highly esteemed families of the Miltonvale community is that of J. H. Burbank, an old resideiit of Cloud county and an old veteran of the Civil war, whose narrow escapes indicate he has participated in many battles. 3.1r. Burbank is a native of the Netherlands of Holland, province of Uerichland, born in 1838. He is a son of Hilbrand and Qertrude (Molland) Burbank. Mr. Burbank in his earlier life, was a sea-faring man ; went on the water at the age of thirteen years as a sailor on a merchant ship. He came to Amer- ica and found employment in the factories of Rhode Island and when the threatening war clouds began to gather he was one of the first to offer his serv- ices for the protection of the flag of his adopted country. He enlisted the day following the date of the first call, April 16, i86t, in Company G, First Rhode Island Volunteers, which was the first regiment equipped that came to Wash- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 869 ington, and the first regiment reviewed at AA'ashington by ^Vbraham Lincoln. Mr. Burbank enlisted as a private but was promoted to second sergeant in 1862, for gallant conduct. He served as first sergeant, as substitute for a pris- oner of war, but was non-commissioned. He was one of twelve men who were struck by fragments of an exploded shell. Two of the nimaber were killed outright and Mr. Burbank was left on the field for dead, but revived and was gathered in with the wounded. Having been a sailor, Mr. Burbank re- sponded to the call for volunteers for the na^vy and served cin detached ser\ ice in that department for eleven months, and was an able assistant when heavy artillery had to be brought into action. Lie was allowed to select his men for service from his regiment. He. was on board a gun-boat with Commodore Perry in the skirmish of Black Water, near Franklin, Virginia, and had his coat pierced in this engagement with thirteen bullet holes; his hat was shot off his head three times, ihe last time knocking it overboard. The fleet con- sisted of three gun-boats, under Captain Flusher. For service and gallantry at Black -Water Mr. Burbank received a bronze medal from the navy depart- ment, in which he takes a pardonable pride. It is a star surmounted by an American eagle, the bird holding two minature guns, a sword, and shot in his talons. On the star is engraved a woman with a shield representing victory, the vanquished foe departing from her. Governor Sprague was with Company G as \\ar governor. At the first battle of Bull Run his horse was shot out from under him. Their regi- ment commander was the gallant General Burnsides. Mr. Burbank has par- ticipated- in many a hard fought battle and in many a long and weary march. One of the heaviest losses his regiment sustained was the blowing up of tlie mine at Petersburg. Of the eighteen of his immediate company but two com- rades besides himself escaped. Four thousand men wei'e lost all because their leaders were not sustained by the officers of other commands. Mr. Burbank returned home on a furlough in 1864 and was married to Mary A. Bums. One year after his return home from the \^•ar, Mr. Burbank came west and settled in Macon county, Missouri, and through correspond- ence with a friend, Charles Proctor, he came to Kansas. He came to better his condition and succeeded admirably, for he has made a home where, sur- rounded by his estimable family, he enjoys all the comforts of life and under no condition would he return to his. New Elngland home. He is a true and staunch friend of the great state of Kansas. A trip made to the East did much toward making Mr. and Mrs. Burbank contented with their western home. Mr. Burbank visited the B. B. and R. Knight cotton mills at Natick, the largest corporation in the world, where forty }-ears ]3rior he met the girl that later shared alike his joys and sorrows. While visiting- his old New England home in 1901 he attended the reunion at Providence, Rhode Island, which was held that year, and while there met some of his old regimental comrades. He also met Captain Chase of his company, whom he had lost all trace of since he was wounded in the head and could not speak for seven months. Mr. Bur- bank mourned him as dead until they met in Providence that summer, and as they rehearsed those experiences that were amusing, the}- both laughed, but. 8.70 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. the next moment as they perhaps recalled some pathetic scene of suffering and privation, these scarred veterans and old comrades wept like children. In 1877 Mr. Burbank with his excellent family became residents of Cloud county, and homesteaded land three and one-half miles southwest of Milton- vale,, in Oakland township, where he raises and feeds graded cattle. He has at present a fine herd of one hundred and twenty-five head. The first residence of the Burbanks in Kansas consisted of a basement, with roof of boards, where they lived in true pioneer style, and in this humble dwelling the first school of the district was taught. The Burbanks are the only residents of the dis- trict that were there at that time. In 1883 they built a substantial stone bam, and in 1886 erected a commodious two-story residence of seven rooms, and Mr. Burbank has provided sheds for his cattle to protect them from the wintry storms and shelter for all his stock. Mrs. Burbank is a native of Glasgow, Scotland. Her parents died when she was a child and she came to America with .an aunt who had raised her. She lived with this aunt until her marriage. To Mr. and Mrs. Burbank seven children have been born, five of whom are living : John, the eldest child and only son, operates the farm and shares equally with his father in the profits and losses of the farm and stock. He with his little eight-year-old daughter, Grace, li\-e with his parents, his wife having died. Nellie, the eldest daughter, teaches the sc[uare inch tailoring system and is very successful. Anna, the second daughter, is learning the tailoring system with the intention of teach- ing it. Gertrude assists her mother with the household duties. Agnes, the 3roungest daughter, has l^een a teacher in the Cloud county scTiools for two years. She was principally educated in the home district. These daughters have been reared in the school of industry and are intelligent, industrious young women. Mr. Burbank afiiliates with the Republican party, but is an expansionist and considers his country before any other issue. He voted for Bryan in his first campaign. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Mil- tonvale post, and is an active worker. The family are members of the Roman Catliolic church. Mr. Burbank retains his New England thrift and the econ- omy of his fatherland, which has built him a home where he can spend his de- clining years in comfort and ease. His wife and children have been true help- ers and to them is due a share of the credit for their comfortable home. He had led an honorable career of real service and well doing and is reaping the comforts of a well spent life, surrounded by an interesting family; his wife, who is a true helpmate and companion, a son, who is honorable and industri- ous, four daughters, who are excellent young women, and a grandchild, little Grace, who has won her way into the hearts of the household. DAVID W^ESLEY WATSON. The subject of this sketch is D. W. Watson, a successful farmer and stockman of Oakland township. He is a son of Thomas Watson, an early settlers of Clark county, Illinois, who died in 1876, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 871 D. W. Watson came to Cloud county in 1S70, with a capital of less than twentv-five dollars, built a dugout and for sexeral years barely eked out an existence. In October, 1878, he was married to Clara E. Burkhart, daugh- ter of J. E. Burkhart, of Oakland township. ]\lr. Watson's family consists of four children, two boys and two girls; \\'alter Erwin is married to Florence May Smith, aiul owns eight)' acres of land adjoining his father; Florence L. Kola, deceased; Clarence Eugene, aged sixteen; Ethel May, and Lena Hazel, bright girls of thirteen and five years. Mr. Watson has a farm of three hundred and twenty acres, but at- tributes his success to raising cattle and hogs. He keeps a herd of about one hundred head of native cattle. He has been fortunate in all of his shipments and made large gains on all but one. His farm is one of the best in Oakland township, with a stock well that is inexhaustible. He is a quiet, unostenta- tious man, but a good citien and neighbor. CHARLES PROCTOR. The subject of this sketch is Charles Proctor, one of the old landmarks of Miltonvale who has gained prominence both in the business arena and in politics. Mr. Proctor was born in Joe Daviess county, Illinois, in 1835, where he was educated and as soon as he attained his majority he accepted a jxisition as travel- ing salesman with the Manny Reaper Com- pany until he responded to his country's call for men at the breaking out of the Ci\'il war. He served three years in the Twentieth A\'isconsin Regiment, under Colonel Henry C. Bertram. On the 2d day of r^larch, 1863, he was promoted from first sergeant to sec- ond lieutenant of his company, and serve:l with distinction all through the war. His brother George was a member of the same company. Their greatest loss occurred De- cember 7. i'862, at Prairie Grove, .Vrkansas. Of the four hundred and eight}' men of his regiment they lost two hundred and sixty- two. Of his immediate compau}- of forty- eight men thirty-two were killed and wound- ed. Mr. Proctor was taken to Fort Smith from this battle as a prisoner and detained tA\-o weeks when he was exchanged. After this engagement they returned to St. Louis and down the ^lississippi river to Vicksburg and then to Yazoo City, which they captured and on to New Or- leans and across the Gulf of Mexico Iri Brownsxille, Texas, where they laid Charles Proctor. 872 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. nine months until the attack on Mobile. His company were engaged in the takinc^ of Fort ]\Iorgan and again in the spring of 1865 m the city of Mobile, Mr Proctor took part in several laattles that will live in history so long as records endure. Thev were mustered out July 17, 1865. A younger brother, Henry, served a few 'months at the closing of the war— a lad of only fifteen years. , ... Immediately after the war I^Tr. Proctor located in Macon City, Missouri, where he became established in the implement business and later in the insur- ance business and subsequently engaged in farming in the same locality. In 1876 he emigrated to Cloud county, driving a herd of cattle through, and took up a homestead where his son-in-law, A. J. Culp, now lives. -This part of the country was sparsely settled at that time and the outlook was not altogether encouraging. As an illustration of the newness existing here at that time Mr. Proctor was discussing the matter of building their dugout near the sec- tion line, explaining to his wife "some clay there would be a road there." She archly replied, "1 would like to know where it would go to," evincing little faith in the resources and development of the country. In 1886 Mr. Proctor moved to Miltonvale and engaged in the drug busi- ness. At the expiration of one year he traded the store for land in Ottawa county. He then conducted a real estate and insurance business until elected clerk of Cloud county in 1888-, which office he held until 1892. His official record was one of pride to his constituents and satisfactory to all regardless of party affiliations. He was also county conmiissioner from 1878 until 1881. He is a man of uncjuestionable principles and who holds the administration of office a sacred trust. Mr. Procter has accjuired a competency of this world's goods. He owns eight hundred and forty acres of land, most of which he has accumulated since coming to Cloud county and feeds from one hundred to two hundred head of native cattle. The Proctors have a suburban residence near [Milton- vale which they have improved and made a desirable home. Mr. Proctor's parents were Abel and Mary (Moffatt) Proctor. Abel Proctor was born in Verm.ont in 1800. He had one brother and three sisters. They were of English and Scotch ancestry. When Abel Proctor attained the age of twenty-one years he started off \vith a one horse vehicle and sold shoes through the south until he landed at New Orleans, from 'which point he secured the position as clerk upon a steamboat plying the Mississippi river. In June, 1827, he landed in Galena, Illinois, when the lead mines were flour- ishing and when the Indian was more numerous than the white man. He was married in 1829, to Mary ]\loffat, a native of Maine, and whose father was driven out of Canada by the British during the rebellion. The ^Moffats moved to Peoria, Illinois, in 1823, and later to Galena. Mrs. Proctor died in 1865. Abel Proctor sold his interests in Illinois and settled on a farm in Wright county, Iowa, where he died in 188S at the age of eighty-eight years. Charles Proctor was one of seven children, all of whom are living except the eldest sister, who died at the age of sixty-seven years. Catherine, widow HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 873^ of Samuel C. Noland, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Elizabeth, wife of John M. Brooks, of Wright county, Iowa. George, a miner of Joplin, Mis- souri. ■Nlary Ann, wife of Duncan McKinley, of Iowa. Henry, a resident o£ Hampton, Franklin county, Iowa. Air. Proctor was married in 1859, to Caroline Hundley, a daughter of Josiah and Julia A. (Avery) Hundley, an old English family who came to- New York in an early day and settled near Galena, Illinois, in 1826. The Moffat and Avery families were neighbors in Peoria in 1823. Josiah Hund- ley died in California, in 185 1 where he had gone during the gold excitement of 1849. His wife survived him until 1896. She was born in St. Louis audi the Averys were the only American family in the town at that time. To Mr. and Mrs. Proctor three children were born, viz : Eva S., wife of James Neill (see sketch) ; Ada C, wife of A. J. Culp (see sketch) ; Charles A., a young man of nineteen years, associated with his father in farming and stock raising. Mrs. Proctor died in April, 1892, and in 1894 Mr. Proctor was married to Emily E. Hundley, a sister of his former wife. Mrs. Proctor, who is a most estimable woman, was a teacher in her earlier life but ten years prior to her marriage was engaged in the millinery business in Nesla, Potta- watomie county, Iowa. Mr. Proctor is a staunch Republican and takes an interest in all legisla- tive afifairs, but is practically retired from public life and devotes a greater portion of his time to the domestic felicity of his home. He is an active mem- ber of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was the first commander of the, Miltonvale post and is its present adjutant. A. J. CULP. The subject of this sketch is A. J. Culp, a prominent and successful far- mer near Miltonvale, Kansas. Mr. Culp is a native of Indiana, born near Logansport, in 186 1. His father was Valentine Culp, a native of Prussia, Germany, and left his home country to escape entering the standing army> Valentine Culp was the only one of his family that ever came to America. He settled in Indiana, took up land and lived there until his death in 1879, followed by the death of the wife and mother, six weeks later. Mr. Gulp's mother was Elizabeth Harkey, who came with her father's family to America and were among the early settlei's of Ohio and Indiana. Mr. Gulp's parents having died while he was yet in his minority, he was thrown upon his own resources and in order to acquire an education, had to work on the farm in summer and go to school in winter until he obtained the ability to teach, and thus he earned his way to the Valparaiso Normal School two years, and later, a commercial course in the Business College there. In 1885 he came west and had the good judgment to locate in Cloud county where he has taught in some of the best schools. Mr. Culp was a teacher in the gram- mar grade of the Miltonvale schools for four years and principal for one 52 874 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. year. At tlie expiration of his school work in Aliltonvale he became interested in farming- and stock raising- and gave up the \'ocation of teaching. Tn 1890 he purchased one hundred and sixt_\- acres of land one mile west of Miltonvale: the same year he married INIiss Ada C. Proctor, who was also a Cloud county teacher for three \-ears. }\Irs. Culp was prepared for teaching in the Emporia State Normal.' She is a daughter of Charles Proctor, (see sketch) and when he was elected to the office of clerk of Cloud county, she was his deputy during the term of four years. She is a refined, gentle woman and possesses more than ordinary talent in art, and many of her paintings adorn the walls of their beautiful home. Mrs. Culp inherited one hundred and thirty acres of land adjoining her husband's farm. Mr. Culp remodeled, and expended about seven hundred dollars on their residence and has one of the most desirable country homes in the vicinity of Miltonvale. He bought and built up a herd of cattle by degrees until he now keeps an average of about sixty head. He started in Kansas with a capital of about eight hundred dollars. Mr. Culp has been a Republican from the first ballot. They are members of the Presbyterian church and take an active part in church \A'ork. JAMES NEILL. of he Among the old settlers who have witnessed the growth and prosperity Cloud count}- is Jailies Neill. Like all the sons of "L^ncle Bennie" — as was known to every citizen of 3>Iiltonvale and ^•icinity, — he is a straight- forward, honorable man who numbers his friends among all classes of society. He is an honest, whole souled fellow, the warmest and truest of friends. Mr. Xeill is a prosperous farmer living one mile west of Miltonvale. He home- steaded land two miles west of his present farm which he sold in 1883, and became in- terested in a meat market in Miltonvale, where he continued ten years. Mr. Neill be- gan life without a dollar and experienced all the hardships of the majority of the early settlers. He was present at the birth of Miltonvale and has seen that little city flour- 'sh, and also during the panic, when on the downward slide. Li 1884 he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land and in 1893 erected a residence and moved to the farm. He now owns four hundred and eighty-three acres of land, was born and reared in County Down, L'eland ; born in 1850. James Neill. Mr. Xeill HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 875 He is of Scottish origin on the paternal side, his grandfather four generations removed, was from Scotland. Many of the Neill descendants are living on the homesteads of their ancestors in the old country. Mr. Neill was married in 1879, to Eva S. Proctor, daughter of Charles Proctor (see sketch). To Mr. and Mrs. Neill have been born seven children, .all but one of whom are living. The eldest child, Fannie, is a teacher in the grammar grade department of the Miltonvale schools. She is a graduate of the Miltonvale high school, class of 1896. Harry is a student of the high school department of Miltonvale. Ada, Eula, Eunice and Mabel. Mr. N^ill is a Republican in politics and has been trustee of his town- ship almost continuously since 1876. He has been one of almost every con- vention audience held in Cloud county. Received the nomination for county commissioner in 1893, and again in 1902. being elected to that office from the third district. He has been a Mason for more than twenty years and was one of the charter members of the Miltonvale lodge. He has filled the chair of Master Mason. JOSEPH ELIJAH BURKHART. J. E. Burkhart is one of the oldest settlers of Oakland township. He came to Kansas in 1870, and bought property in Topeka. The following year he came to Cloud county and settled in the Solomon valley, where he took up a homestead in Oakland township. Mr. Burkhart was born January 3, 1838, in Butler, Pennsylvania. In 1872, he was ordained as a clergyman in the United Brethren church, filling the pulpit for twelve years; many of the citizens of Oakland township have been members of his congregation. Under personal conviction Mr. Burkhart withdrew from the ministry, and from the church, and was dismissed at his own request. He has since become an agnostic, assuming thought is God. He is author of the following poem which was published in a standard work :' "A thinking man's akin to God, Great fountain of mind, A quenchless flame let nature laud All living men that's kind. To think a thought must be divine. Supreme in peace in rage of storm. Oh mighty fortress thought's sublime, 'Tis here and there in human form. To think a thought must be divine. Weaving friendship true and pure, Grander than the stars that shine. And leads to duty plain and sure. 876 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. In thought perhaps the weak is strong; A herculean in might, To turn the tempest into song, Of intellectual light. Go get your thoughts from nature true, The budding rose or roaring sea, The singing streams and arch of blue, Which teach the soul and makes it free. I\Ir. Burkhart has also composed numerous other poems, among which are Taboo's: Tumult? Anarchy. The Recoil of Force. Why Be Your Brother's Keeper? ]Mr. Burkhart has been honored several times by the election as delegate to state and district conventions of Kansas, and in 1896 was a Republican candidate for the legisla- ture but was defeated in convention and again defeated — to put it mild— he says, 'by conspiracy against the majority for dis- trict clerk, in 1900." He has filled the chair of editor on several Kansas newspapers. , In 1884-5. edited the Miltonvale News, and has contributed to various papers and periodicals. He is a writer of considerable note and some of his poems have been incorporated in stand- ard works. yir. Burkhart was a soldier in the Civil war; enlisted as a private in Company A, Sixth Pennsylvania Regiment, and served till the close of the war. A brother, Baxter Clay Burkhart, was a member of the famous Bucktail Zouaves, Ninth Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserves, McCall's Division. He contracted measles and died. He was one of the first to go over the stone wall at the battle of Chancellorsville, and it was con- ceded that his act saved the day. He was but sixteen years old and would have been given a medal for his brave deed had he not died. Mr. Burkhart is one of the pioneers of Cloud county and helped in the organization of Oaklond township, which was then a part of Meredith. He has been a notary public for several years and also engaged in real estate business. He was married in 1857, to Miss Eleanor N. Stewart, of Dryden, New York. Mrs. Burkhart is a graduate of Butler College, Butler, ,Pen- nyslvania, and was a teacher for many years, beginning at the age of sixteen. She taught the first school in Oakland township, in a dugout, free gratis, to secure the new district ratio of state fund. She also taught the first school Joseph Elijah Burkhart. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 877 JIrs. Eleanor N. Stewart Burkhart AND Lawrence Watson, Their First Grandchild. in the new school house at a salary of fifteen dollars per month, and again m 1878. The dugout was simply a hole in the ground, and the school num- bered less than a dozen pupils. To IMr. and Mrs. Burkhart have been born one son and three daughters, only one of whom is living : Mrs. Clara Watson, wife of David Watson, a farmer of Oakland township. Mr. Burkhart is a son of Elijah Burk- hart, who was born in Butler, Pennsylvania, January 3, 1803. He was a millwright, car- penter, joiner and widely known in politics. Was one of the Republicans and original Whigs in Pennsylvania. He started on a career with practically nothing, but died wealthy. Mr. Burkhart's grandfather was born near Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, of Dutch origin. He was a prisoner with the Indians four years, escaped and joined AVashington's army and served with him at Valley Forge, Trenton and White }\Iarsh, until the close of the war. His paternal grandmother was ^Miss :Margaret Powell, of English ancestry. :Mr. Burkhart's great-grandfather was from Frankfort, Geimiany. Mr. Burk- hart's mother was formerly ]\Iiss Rebecca I-lichardson, daughter of Joseph Richardson, whose grand- fatlier came with him from England and settled in Philadelphia. The marriage relationship between his parents connected the AVashingtons, Lees, Custers. Harpers, Xeglies, Pat- tersons, Kenedies, Richardsons, and Burkharts. [Mr. and Airs. Burkhart live on the old homestead and enjoy the fruits of their labors in a little vine clad cottage. A\Ir. Burkhart is inter- ested in the North American Crude Oil Company, in California, and the Beaumont (Texas) oil wells, Chanute and Bufifalo, Kansas; and Belton, AIissom"i. The company's oil lands in California consist of five thousand acres. The Belton (Alissriuri), Kansas and Beaumont properties are large, and tlie syndicate is reaching out to other fields; a strong company with a bright future, a leader in the world's great enterprise. The Pretty Cottage Home of the Burkharts. 878 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ISAAC B. DAWES. The Dawes family sprung from good old English stock; the ancestors came early to America and established the family name from which the sub- ject of this sketch owes his origin. Isaac B. Dawes was born in eastern Ohio, in the year 1827, his parents having removed there when that state was con- sidered the "far west" and when they were in danger of being- scalped by the savages or devoured by the wild beasts that roamed the forests. The Dawes family were all patriots and served their country with unflinching courage. His father served in the war of 1812. Our subject was one of the honored veterans of the Civil war, whose devotion to his country was tested by service on the battlefield. He was a member of the 137th Indiana, Company D, under Captain James Sewell and Colonel E. J. Robinson, regimental commander. Mr. Dawes enlisted in ^lay, t86i, serving until he was mustered out at the close of the rebellion. He re- ceived the appointment of orderly sergeant at the beginning of his enlistment. His men were not well drilled recruits, having had neither time nor op- portunity for military tactics, and in a time when veterans were needed, but they were called into acti-\'e duty and filled the places of two old regiments on guard duty where they were given the opportunity to demonstrate their cour- age and valor. After being honorably mustered out, Mr. Dawes returned to his family and resumed farming until 1878, when he, with his family emigrated to Kan- sas and settled on their present farm, when the silence of nature was unbroken by the locomotive's shrill whistle, but "to those who wait, all things come," and in a brief time they were in the midst of a busy traffic of a great rail- road system. Mr. Dawes was married in 1850, to Julia Maxwell, and three years later removed to Indiana, where their seven children except the eldest were born. Of this number, five are living, viz : Samuel F., the eldest son, resides with his father and is ? successful, intelligent farmer and stock raiser. The sec- ond son, the Honorable F. B. Dawes, is a Leavenworth attoriaey and ex-attorney general of the state of Kansas. He established for himself a national reputation and is one of the most gifted ora- tors in the state. The numerous positions of trust to which he has beai called have been successfully filled and his popularity is well deserved. His success is not due to an inherited legacy or adventi- tious circumstances, but to his unbending ^^•ill, application . and sterling in- tegrity. The daughters, three in number, are estimable and intelligent women. The eldest is Mrs. M. E. King, of Clay county, near Idana. Luella is her father's housekeeper. She has been a teacher of Cloud and Clay counties for a period of eight years. Mrs. Iva B. Mock, the youngest daughter, re- sides on a farm in Oklahoma. Politically, :\Ir. Dawes is a staunch Republican, and during President Harrison's administration was appointed postmaster at Miltonvale, holding HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 879 that office from 1889 to 1893. Miss Lnella Dawes was his deputy and made an efficient clerk. Mr. Dawes has held various township offices. He was elected justice of the peace of Starr township and held the same office in Indi- ana. Mr. ]3awes emigrated to Kansas with limited means but a stout heart and hewed his way through many obstacles in his path; with a will he put his shoulder to the wheel and it turned. He erected a small bouse one and a half stories high, the most preten- tious in the neighborhood, and proceeded to otherwise improve the homestead. He with his son, keeps a herd of about sixty head of graded Shorthorn cattle and raises hogs extensively. He has built up by degrees a comfortable and pleasant home, a well improved and equipped farm, where he may spend the remainder of his days in quiet comfort and in the enjoyment of peace and plenty. Mr. Dawes is recognized by the community as a thoroughly true and up- right man, courteous to every body, a helpful citizen and revered by all. He is the youngest and only living child of a family of eleven children, having buried a sister, the last surviving member except himself, in 1900. They all lived to maturity and reared families. Mrs. Dawes, who was deceased in July, 1898, was a woman possessed of a gentle, sympathetic nature, which drew around her a large circle of friends and acquaintances, and her demise was universally mourned. Miss Dawes is actively engaged in the profitable and interesting pursuit of poultry raising from an incubator which has a capacity for one hundred and twenty eggs. There is special attraction watching and waiting for the hatching day of the incubator and witness it turn out one hundred or more downy little chickens, and see them develop into hens or the lusty, crowing chanticleers. She expects as a season's output, the brood to number four or five hundred. ]\Iiss Dawes and her brother are chicken fanciers and received first prize at the Salina fair in 1902, on their pure bred Plymouth Rock fowls, bred from the famous Conger strain, which is their specialty. In ad- dition to this branch of poultry raising, they take great pride in their pure White Holland turkeys and Mammoth Pekin ducks, which are fine speci- mens; the latter carry on their conversation much after the fashion of plain every day ducklings. The barnyard filled with the fine Plymouth Rock chick- ens, beautiful White Holland turkeys and gabbling ducks, was an interesting sight to the author at feeding time. The Dawes family are worthy, active members and supporters of the Christian church of Miltonvale, of which Mr. Dawes is an elder. AMES The peaceful little hamlet of Ames is located on the Central Branch rail- road, three miles southwest of Clyde, and in the center of a marveloush- beau- tiful agricultural country that is unsurpassed in productiveness. The town took on an existence in the spring time of 1883, although the original townsite of Shirley had been laid out in March, 1878. The first residence in the town was built by O. B. Thompson, who was also among the first to embark in business there. The first store was conducted by George Clark, followed closely by Thomas & Sharad; William Frederick, black- smith ; Chester Thomas, general merchandise; George Dersey (now of Clyde), groceries and Mr. Blackmar, grain buyer. Others followed in quick succession •and Ames became a town of considerable import3.nce, all lines of business be- ing represented. The eastern capitalist, W. P. Rice, did much to boom Ames, built two large stores and a commodious hall, but the town has diminished in population, but continues and alwaj's will — to be a good trading point, for it is the location of one of the most extensive elevators west of the Alissis- sippi river. It has a capacity of fourteen thouisand bushels. It was built by E. B. Purcell and is now owned by the Baker, Greenleaf Company. Roach Brothers also have an elevator in Ames. In 1872, the First Union church of Ames, a neat frame building, was erected. S. H. Hooper is the leading merchant and only general store in the town at present. He carries a large and well selected stock of goods, and draws trade from the greater part of the community surrounding the callage. Ames once had a bank incorporated under the name of Ames State Bank, in Sep- tember, 1885, with W. D. Rice, president, O. F. Page, vice-president, W. F. Cowell, secretary, and E. K. Streeter, cashier. George Clark was the first postmaster and when the first election- was held on ;\Iarch 6, 1886, he was elected mayor. Mr. Clark died the summer fol- lowing, August 15, 1886. Ames has been visited by destructive conflagrations. One o.ccurred April 27, 1886, when eight buildings were consumed, along with the entire lumber yards of the B. L. and M. Lumber Company. On May 9, 1902, the large mercantile house of Wood & Hill and the Chicago Lumber Company's yards were destroyed by fire. Many old residents and many of the original set- HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 88 1 tiers continue to live on their homesteads in the vicinity of Ames, which is in close proximity to the historical Elm creek settlement, among whom are the Czapanskiys, Quincy Honey, Mrs. Ernestine Walno, Fullers, Charles Gor- ing, William Hayes, James Buckley, Joseph and Christ Bachaud, Mrs. Hen- rietta Somerfield, Mrs. La Bonte, Edmond Buckley, William Garnet, I. James, Peter Hebert, Fred Lachenmier, Moses Marshall, Edward Cyr, Lewis Chartier, Morrisette (ex-sheriff), Dan Shores, the Rasmussens and many others, all of whom have fine farms, desirable homes and are among the progressive farmers of the county. Ames is situated on the south side of the Republican river, and during seasonable years is almost hidden b}- the walls of growing corn and is one of the best markets in the country. ^\■ILLL\M CZAPANSKIY. The subject of this sketch enjoys the distinction of being the oldest set- tler of Cloud county residing on his original homestead. Mr. Czapanskiy is a native of Prussia, Germany, born in 1831. His grandfather was a Russian, and books that were published in the language of his country when he died were buried with him, as is the custom of that country, when a peasant pos- sesses books that can not be interpreted. Our subject worked in a mill in his native country for eleven years, and in the meantime was married to Miss Julia Fischer, in 1857, a young German woman. When their family consisted of but one child, Lewis, they decided to cross the ocean and find a home in America. They joined some of their countrymen in Wisconsin, with whom they had corresponded, and after having worked there about four months, he, with three other German families determined to seek homes on the frontier. Had they known all the difificulties and privations it involved it is doubtful if they would have braved them. They fitted themselves out with ox teams, some with one yoke and some two, our subject being among the former, and thus equipped with the necessary requirements, or such as their means justified, ■the little colony embarked over the "prairie schooner" line for the wilds of Kansas. After a journey of seven weeks, made more or less eventful by var- ied experiences, they arrived on the beautiful but itnsettled prairies of Shirley township, Shirley county (now Cloud), Kansas, the mecca of their dreams. The families of J. M. Hagarman, J. M. Thorp and August Fenskie, comprised the only settlement on Elm creek at that time. The other two families were much discouraged at the outlook and returned. One young man enlisted in the army, but Mr. Czapanskiy had cast his lot in the new country and he had an abiding faith in the future, however distant it might be, and he immediately began preparations to secure a home. He sent a dollar to Junction City by Mr. Hagarman to pay for the filing on his land. The following year he raised a small crop of sod corn on the ten acres he had broken, hauled the proceeds one hundred and fifty miles to Ft. Kearney to buy the requirements of the 882 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. household, and when he homesteaded in the spring of 1863, he felt like a duke, would scarcely have exchanged his possessions for a baronetcy. But later when the settlements fell victims to the Indian raids, the grasshoppers and the drouths, life on the frontier became a lonely dread. However, they were fortunate in not having suffered by Indian depredations other than the suspense incurred from the extreme danger to which they were exposed. About four hundred lowas were passing through the country and attempted to raid their watermelon patch, but Mr. Czapanskiy boldly confronted them and with loud talk and suspiciously emphatic language ordered them to go. One old IncHan took him by the shoulders and shaking him said "You little man, won't kill Indian." A neighbor locked himself in the house and when the maurauders had gone he found his melons, along with the vines, ruthlessly cut and torn in pieces. Mr. and Mrs. Czapanskiy's family consists of five sons and one daughter. Lewis, a well-to-do farmer five miles south of the old homestead; Gustavus, owns three hundred and twenty acres of land cor- nering his father's farm; Gotleib, owns one hundred and sixty acres adjoin- ing the home place on the north ; Rudolph's farm of one hundred and seventy acres, joins his brother Gotleib on the north; William, now owns two hun- dred and fifty acres and will inherit the homestead as the other heirs have been paid off. Their daughter Julia, is the wife of Henry Taylor, a hardware merchant of Palmer, Washington county, Kansas. The sun never shown on fairer ground than the one thousand and twenty fei-tile acres included in the estate of the Czapanskiys. The sons are indus- trious, progressive fellows and have assisted very materially in accumulating this fine proporty. Our subject visited Germany a year ago, where his parents both died poor peasants, and says he would not exchange his American freedom for the cramped conditions of his fatherland, but prefers his Kansas home. A brother and sister followed to this country; the latter is Mrs. Walno and lives near her brother on a farm. The Czapanskiys are members of the Lutheran church. LYMAN OTIS FULLER. Among the old residents of Cloud county, none bear a more honorable record than L. O. Fuller, who has faithfully discharged every trust reposed in him and is ranked on the list of Shirley township's foremost citiens. In 1870, his vehicle made one of the first wagon tracks south of where the little station of Ames now stands. His existence in the new settlement was fraught with many reverses, but his years of toil have brought happy returns and he is now one of the well-to-do farmers of that locality who are enjoying the fruits of their successful undertakings. Mr. Fuller is a thoroughly up-to- date agriculturist and his farm is one of the best improved places between Clyde and Minneapolis. The handsome residence, substantial and freshly painted barns are pleasing features of this old homestead where Mr. Fuller HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 883 has spent the better part of his years obtaining these gratifying results and where surrounded by the environments that materially contribute to make life worth living, he with his amiable and most estimable wife, will un- doubtedly spend the remainder of their lives. Mr. Fuller came to Kansas with a capital of seventeen hundred dollars, including his teams, but spent more than that amount the first two years. He hauled the material for their first dwelling from Junction City, a distance of sixty miles, and while this was under course of construction, camped on the prairie in a tent for two months. Their first house was razed to the ground but a few days ago. These old landmarks that sheltered the brave pioneers will soon all have disappeared and while supplanted by the more pretentious homes, there is a pathos lingering- around the ruins of the little box house or dugout that gave protection and kindly shelter to the homestead settler. About the time Mr. Fuller filed on his land, other home seekers came into the town- ship and soon afterward school district No. 29 was organized. The district at that time contained less than twenty families. The first officers of the dis- trict were L. O. Fuller, director; Edward Cummings, clerk; Dennis Cum- mings, treasurer. The first teacher was Annie McCray, now a resident of California. Among the first settlers in the township were James and William Hays, father and son, respectively, a daughter, Mrs. Woodward, Dennis and David Cummings, brothers. Of these first settlers, Mr. Fuller is the only one remaining in the township. The birthplace of Mr. Fuller is the town of ^Veatherfield, Wyoming county. New York, born in 1832. His father, Orren Fuller, was an active and consistent member of the "Free-Will" Baptist church, and was known over a greater part of the state of Wisconsin, as Deacon Fuller. He was a poor man and reared a family of nine children on the proceeds of fifty-seven acres of land ; so small a domain in the state of Kansas would scarcely be des- ignated or dignified by the name of farm. On this tract of land his father lived for a quarter of a centviry and after all those years, sold it for a consid- eration of seven hundred dollars, and in May, 1846, emigrated to Wisconsin, where he deeded one hundred and sixty acres of government land, bought two yoke of oxen, a breaking plow, a cow and a calf and left the two older sons to break the prairie, build a home and prepare for the family. He returned for his wife and the remainder of the family full of hope for the future, but in the meantime fell ill and did not return for a year. During this interim, the youngest of the two sons was stricken with remittent fever and died in the thinly settled district of that then new country among strangers. From that time the father was an invalid and our subject being the only son remaining at home, the management and responsibility of the farm and sup- port of the family devolved upon him. When he should have been in school, circumstances compelled him to work instead, and consequently he received but a limited education. Deacon Fuller died July 17, 1877, followed by the wife and mother one year and three months later. Mr. Fuller's mother was of New- York birth, born near the village of Rome. She died October 16, 1878. Mr. 884 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Fuller is the sixth of nine children, but three of whom are living, himself and two sisters ; Mrs. Susan A. Page of \A^isconsin, and Mrs. Mary M. Bush of Warrensburg, Johnson county, Missouri. On the 4th day of July, 1852, Mr. Fuller was united in marriage to Miss Permelia Winchell, of Wisconsin. Mrs. Fuller's parents were Jesse H. and Leah (Lynn) Winchell. Her father was born in the state of New York, but was a pioneer of Indiana, removing there with his father's family when a small bov. He served seventeen days in the Black Hawk war and was among the few surviving veterans of that uprising at the time of his death, which occurred September it, 1895. He died in the home of his daughter, where he had lived fourteen years. Her mother died when Mrs. Fuller was but little over two years old, leaving two children, herself and a baby sister. By a sec- ond marriage there were nine children. After living in Indiana until he reached the age of maturity, her father removed to Michigan, where he mar- ried and returned to a point in Indiana, about seventy miles distant. He lo- cated and deeded two hundred and eighty acres of land in Green Lake county (then Alarquette), Wisconsin, and moved to that state in 1846. He subse- quently removed to Minnesota, where the angel of death visited his home the second time, claiming the wife and mother. He then broke up housekeeping and lived with his children. Mr. Winchell was a pioneer of four states, Indi- ana, AVisconsin, Minnesota and Kansas. His sons, Mrs. Fuller's half-broth- ers, with the exception of one were all patriots; one was killed in battle and another died in the hospital. ^Ir. and Mrs. Fuller have reared a family of eight children, all of whom are living but one, Judith R., deceased wife of David Cummings, who died November 28, 1893, at the age of thirty-eight years, leaving a husband and eight children: Their sons are all prosperous and successful farmers. John R. is one of the prominent residents of Shirley township. Orren is a farmer of Cloud county. Truman is a resident of Iowa, where he is engaged in farm- ing. Hattie B. is the wife of W. C. Marshall. Frank J. is a farmer of Shir- lev township and also a successful teacher. Elmer O., the youngest son, sup- erintends and manages the farm and stock raising. He with his estimable wife live in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Fuller. Mary E., the youngest daugh- ter, is a prepossessing young woman. W'itli the exception of Frank J., who attended school in Concordia and Topeka for a short time, the children have all received their education in the home district. ]\Ir. Fuller owes his prosperity to diversified farming, stock raising and living- within his means. In 1892 he erected their present dwelling, a seven- room residence. One of his barns is 36 by 66 feet with 12 foot to the eaves, and the other 40 by 56 feet in dimensions. They are both built for hay over head and stock underneath. Mr. Fuller, with his son, has a herd of about fifty head of graded cattle, but finds there is more money in raising hogs and keeps from forty to seventy-five head. Several years ago he decided there could be a fortune obtained in threshing and invested in a machine, selling some young cattle to help pay seven hundred dollars, the cost of the thi-esher. The HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 885 transaction almost "broke him up in business," and was an experience dearly- purchased. His farm lies on the upland and the wells of this place cost Mr. Fuller three hundred dollars. He dug one seventy-eight feet and discarded the effort; at the suggestion of the water-witch, he sunk another well seventy- five feet distant from the first, where he found sixteen feet of water, an inex- haustible supply. Notwithstanding the craft of the water-witch, had he gone down a few feet further he would have been rewarded the first time. When Mr. Fuller selected a home back on the rolling prairie, he was asked by James Clithero, now of Concordia, "how on earth he could expect to make a livelihood on the bluffs" and further asserted they would starve to death. But our subject has made a home seven thousand dollars would not buy. It is a well kno^vn fact that fully as large a number of farmers on the upland have as good homes and surroundings as those on the bottom lands. Mr. Fuller is fond of reciting incidents of the early settlement and in recalling the royal good times they had. Their first residence though but 16x20 feet in dirriensions, was extended .to the "society" of the neighborhood and enter- tained a dancing party that ntmibered forty guests. The hardships were made lighter by these assemblies so common at that time and to which all the old settlers refer with pleasant recollections. During the first months of the Fuller's arrival in Kansas they were constantly on the alert for Indians and while camped in their tents near their present home, observed a light which moved at about the same speed a man would while walking. They watched, wondered, conjectured and finally concluded it was savages and prepared for defense, but as time passed and no imminent danger or scalping knife seemed hovering over them they retired for the night. Being anxious to know the cause for alarm they investigated matters the next morning and found the supposed red skins were only James Hay who by the friendly glimmer of a lantern was carrying goods from a wagon to his camp. Mr. Fuller cast his first vote for John C. Freemont, and remained in the Republican ranks until the organization of the People's party, believing in their principles he transferred his faith and affiliated with the Populists. He has held township offices at different periods and has been a member of the school board almost continuously for eighteen years. In the latter capacity he is succeeded by his son Elmer, who is now treasurer of the board. In sentiment Mr. and Mrs. Fuller are Baptists, but as they are not con\-eniently near a congregation of that faith they are not members of any church at pres- ent. Mr. Fuller is one of the solid men of his township, and any plan for the benefit of the community receives his staunch support. MOSES MARSHALL. Of the many changes wrought by "Father Time" since the advent of Moses Marshall on the Repitblican river, near the present town of Ames in 1874, where he settled on the old Thorp homestead, perhaps none appeal ta the caleiidar of his busy life more sensibly as a reminder of fleeting years, than 886 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. that liis seven sons whose future destiny and welfare prompted him to emi- grate to the new \\-estern field, but who were too young to take up land; are now great, stalwart, broad shouldered men, all but two of whom are surrounded by families. Mr. Marshall was a well-to-do stone mason, worked in the rol- ling mills and had accumulated what the early Kansan considered a fortune. He bought the old Thorp place, paying Mr. Berry, who then owned it, two thousand dollars. The old cabin, the first house built on the west side of the Republican river is still standing and is distinguished as being the most an- cient landmark in the county. Mr. Marshall also bought eighty acres of the Swearinger claim and a year later, the relinquishment of Pat Mitchell of two hundred and forty acres, a homestead and timl^er claim, making a total of four hundred and eighty acres. Mr. Marshall is a native of Londonderry, Ireland, born in 1820, but looks ten years younger. He has been a man of more than ordinary strength and his hurculean frame is- still erect for the weight of his eighty-three years. When eighteen years of age he engaged in many wrestling matches and was the prowess of any man in his locality. About this time Mr. Marshall became imbued with the idea of coming to America, and to overcome his father's objections threatened to join the Queen's Life Guards, which won his par- ents' unwilling consent, but he had not been settled in Pennsylvania but a short time ere his father and the other members of the family followed in his footsteps and joined him in the United States of America, where his parents both died at an ad\'anced age; his father was ninety-seven. Soon after our subject's marriage to Letitia Criswell, a young Avoman whose parents were from Ireland, with Scotch-Irish ancestry, they took a boat for Minnesota, and pre-empted land where the city of Minneapolis now stands, but desiring water-power, he changed his location and went further north where he could get land at $1.25 per acre. The land around the present site of Minneapolis was $3.60 per acre. In this state all their nine children (except the youngest) were born. Mr. Marshall has a brother and sister living in Pennsylvania, both younger than himself, an older brother died in December, 1902, and a sister that was his senior died in Januory, 1903. Mrs. Marshall died March 19, 1894, and since her death W. C, the oldest son, with his family live on the home place. The seven sons and two daughters born to this worthy couple are as fol- lows : W. C, of whom mention has just been made is a prosperous farmer and stockman. He was born January 23, 1857. His wife is one of the esti- mable daughters of that v,^ell known old settler, L. O. Fuller. They are the parents of three children, one daughter and two sons. Lelitia P., the oldest grandchild of the Marshall family was born in the historical old cabin, Novem- ber 14, 1881. Their eldest son Robert F., was born December 20, 1884. Their youngest, William R., was born February i, 1891. W. C. .Marshall feeds and ships cattle and hogs, keeps from one hundred to one hundred and fifty head of the latter and is interested in two hundred acres of land. He is a public spirited man, has served as clerk of the school board for six years HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 887 and is one of the solid citizens of the Ames community. Jennie B., the oldest daughter of Moses Marshall is known in educational work all over the county. She is one of the most successful and has taught more terms of school than any teacher in Cloud county, but owing to failing health has retired and makes her home with her sister and brothers. She was born November i, 1858, began her school work in 1876 and taught continuously until 1898, one year in Minnesota and eight years in District No. i. She is a very accomplished and ^^'orthy woman. Samuel H., born February 16, i860, is a grain dealer of Glen Elder, Kansas. Martha S., born January 6, 1862, is the wife of Arch Quinett, a prominent farmer and owner of a fine estate, the Richard Coughlin homestead. Robert J., born July 18, 1863, is a resident of Carroll, Iowa: he is a railway bridge builder. Moses Scott, born May 7, 1867, is a policeman of Everett, Washington. He inherits his father's rugged phy- sique, is six feet, one and one-half inches tall and weighs two hundred and thirty pounds. Arthur S., born November 17, 1870, is a resident of Clifton, where he is engaged in the music and sewing machine business. He is also a band leader, and has under his instruction four bands at the present time. Ames once had the "only band" in the county, and the seven Marshall boys were members, hence it bore their name. John R. is the giant of the family. He is six feet four inches in height. He was born May 9, 1873. He is a foreman in the export elevator of the Missouri Grain Company, located at Moberly, Missouri. Joseph T., born in Kansas, September 27, 1875. He is a resident of Dakota. With the expectation of promotion and a railroad career, he is section foreman. Moses Marshall stands in the family alone in his Democratic principles, for all of his sons are Republicans, a somewhat remarkable situation. Mr. Marshall owns three hundred and fifty acres of land that ranks with the finest in the county, and it is reasonable to suppose Mr. Thorp would make a good selection when the "whole earth'' was his to choose from. The Marshalls li^'ed in the primitive cabin, where the. first settlers congregated to hear Reverend AVest preach, repaired it, replaced the puncheon floor by boards, added a room and lived there until 1885. The original fireplace extended across the entire end of the cabin. The Marshalls 'are all good citizens and honorable people. RICE. The town of Rice is a small village, situated on the Central Branch rail- road, the first station east of Concordia. Its business enterprises consist of a store, an extensive elevator, a neat little house of worship and a school build- ing. The town is too near Concordia to ever be more than a railroad station with a trade from the immediate neighborhood. The farmers in the vicinity of Rice are all well-to-do and much of the town is occupied by farmers, whose estates adjoin the townsite. 888 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. LAWRENCEBURG. The Station of Lawrencebiirg is on the Union Pacific railroad, about mid- way between Concordia and Clyde, in the prosperous Salt creek valley. The town was named for L. D. Lawrence, who was accidentally killed October 17, 1885. As the train was approaching the depot Mr. Lawrence tried to cross the track and was run down by the approaching engine. His skull was frac- tured by being thrown violently from the track and his body mangled. He was an elderly man of about sixty years, and was very deaf. He settled in Lawrence township in 1869. MINERSVILLE. The town of Minersville, a village of floating population, varies accord- ing to the seasons. It is a coal-mining town on the northern edge of the county in the northeastern part of Sibley township. Much of the coal consumed in Concordia and the adjacent country comes from Minersville. ( YUMA. Yuma is a small station, five miles west of Concordia, where the Republi- can valley branch leaves the Missouri Eacific railway. HOLLIS. The village of HoUis is located at the intersection of the Union Pacific and Burlington & Missouri Pacific railways. It consists of a store, a good school building, which is said to be the best preserved house in the county. The pupils take a pride in the neat and well cared for interior, seldom found in any town. Hollis is situated in the midst of a fine agricultural district. It was first known as Christie, sq called in honor of its founder, W. J. Christie, who owned the town- site. POSTOFFICES. Prior to the days of the railroads, there were postoffices established in various parts of the county, but the numerous towns, coupled with the rural delivery service, has banished the country office. There was Redstone, in Lawrence township, Nelson, in Nelson township. Sulphur Springs and Heber, in Aurora township, Malta, in Oakland township, Carmel, in Colfax township, Warren, Plalfway and Welcome in Summit. MEREDITH. The village of Meredith is situated a little to the south and east of the center of Meredith township. When the town was instituted or founded, it was expected a railroad would be built through this part of the country and that consequently a good town would spring into existence; the bonds were voted to this effect, but the survey was made to other points. The first postofifice in the township was located at Meredith in 1868, with Abner Coffin, as postmaster. The papers were sent to him with a blank for name to be supplied and at the suggestion of his daughter, Mrs. A. D. Corn- ing, the name of Meredith was adopted in honor of the colonel whom Mr. Coffin served under during the Civil war. Mr. Coffin was also the first justice of the peace in the township, and served in that capacity many years. The first: merchants were Dan Yockey and George Cams, who sold to Morgan Grants Mr. Grant took Reverend Collins as a partner. Later the store fell into the hands of Robert McLean, who bought and sold the stock three different times. In 1893, J. C. Mason assumed control and operates one of the best country stores in the county, receiving a large patronage. As Meredith is situated mid-way between Glasco and Miltonvale, he draws a fair portion of the trade that would otherwise go to one of these two trading points. Mr. Mason is the present postmaster. T. A. McLean, a brother of Robert McLean, started a blacksmith shop about the same time the store was established and contin- ued there from 1868 until his death in 1883. He also carried on farming in connection with his trade. One of the Continental creamery stations is located at Meredith and is- managed very successfully by John Hileraan. The creamery averages from eight to ten thousand pounds of milk per day. There is a good frame school building adjacent to the village and here several of the most prosperous busi- ness men, and some of Cloud county's best teachers, have received their educa- tion or from this little house of learning prepared to enter imiversities and col- leges. .. Meredith is situated on the main Pipe creek and a prettier site for a town- could not be found. The farming country which surrounds it is second ta none in the country and the farmers are all prosperous and well-to-do. 53 890 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. ST. PETERS CATHOLIC CHURCH. St. Peter's Catholic church, located in Meredith township,_ was erected by subscription among the congregation in 1886, at a cost of eight hundred dollars, aside from the work donated by the society. Prior to the building of the church, the Catholic society met at the various residences of its mem- bers. The church was built under the pastorate of Father Mickloff, Father Mol- lier conducting the first services. This district is connected with the Glasco and Delphos parish, and the Services are conducted by the priest from that field the fourth Sunday of each month. The membership includes twenty- four families. The church is modern in its appointments, is well furnished, with organ, etc. Miss Mary Richards presides at the organ. The cemetery which is located just opposite the church was a public bur- ial place, established in 1870, but at the organization of the church became a Catholic cemetery. It consists of a tract of twenty acres of ground, for- merly owned by Mr. Murphy. JAMES P. SHEA. One of the self-made men, progressive farmers and recognized political leaders of Meredith township is J. P. Shea, a native of Wabash county, Indi- ana, born in 1856. His father was Jeremiah Shea, a native of the Emerald Isle, who left his native land when a young man to make a home in America. He died when only thirty-two years of age, of pneumonia, leaving a wife and two sons. Mr. Shea's mother was Catherine Breen, also a native of Ireland. To this union four children were born, two of whom are living. A brother Michael, is one of the representative farmers of Meredith township. The mother was married a second time, her last husband, Jeremiah Sullivan, dying in 1877. To this union six children were born, viz: Patrick, Flurry, Law- rence, Mary, Johanna and Helena, all of whom are single and live at home with their mother on the farm in Meredith township. When Mr. Shea was about one year old his father"s family moved to Dubuque, Iowa, and two years later to Pettis county, Missouri, sixty miles east of Warrensburg, where Mr. Shea received a common school education. In 1872, he came to Kansas and located the homestead where he now lives. He began farming for himself at the age of twenty years. In 1900, he pur- chased the desirable original Burson homestead and now owns three hundred and twenty acres of very excellent land. They live in a comfortable cottage of five rooms. Most of Mr. Shea's ground is corn land but he intends raising in the future more wheat and alfalfa. He has thirty head of two-year-old Hereford and Shorthorn cattle and raises hogs extensively. For a period of eight years Mr. Shea was elected shipper, annually for the Glasco Shipping Association. HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 891 He was married February 4, 1884, to Margaret McLean, a native of Abilene, Dickenson county, Kansas. She was a daughter of F. A. McLean, who for several years was a farmer and blacksmith of Meredith township. He died in 1883. Mr. and Mrs. Shea's family consist of eight children, the oldest of whom is sixten. Joseph, Thomas, Tessie, Charles, Helen, James, Agnes and Jeremiah. Mr. Shea is a Populist but was elected trustee of the township in 1887-8 on the Democratic ticket. The family are regular at- tendants and active members of the Catholic church. J. C. MASON. J. C. Mason is a farmer, extensive stock feeder and shipper and a mem- ber of the firni of J. C. Mason & Son, dealers in general merchandise — the only store in Meredith, where they do a thriving business of about $20,000 annually. Their capital stock is $4,500 and composed of hardware, clothing, dry goods, groceries and everything found in a complete stock of general merchandise. Mr. Mason is a son of George W. and Elizabeth (Chipman) Mason, both natives of Kentucky, who emigrated to Missouri soon after their mar- riage and where J. C. was born in 1847, ^^'^'^^ grew to manhood in the town of Richmond. G. W. Mason was an extensive merchant in the city of Richmond for many years and died there in 1861. Both the Masons and Chipmans were families of southern proclivities and were slave owners in Missouri. G. A. Mason owned twenty or more, several of them remaining with the family as faithful servants several years after Mrs. Mason's death in 1878. J. C. Mason was educated in Richmond, Missouri, and began his career as clerk in his brother's store. He is one of four children, two of whom are living. A sister, Octavia, wife of Doctor William Baron, of Richmond, Missouri. A brother, George W. Mason, Jr., who was a prominent mer- chant and stockman of Richmond, was killed in a railroad wreck while ship- ping stock to St. Louis in 1874. J. C. Mason became a partner in his brother's store and at his death became sole proprietor, continuing the enter- prise two years. At the end of that period he sold his interests in Rich- mond and established himself at Knoxville: after three years of successful operation there he sold and bought a stock farm. Six years later he dis- posed of the farm and came to Kansas locating in Miltonvale in 1890, where he bought, fed and shipped stock for three years. Mr. Mason disco^'ered what he thought to be — and he reckoned well — a promising outlook for a general merchandising business at Meredith in con- nection with his stock interests. He came with money to invest and energy to assist in building up a business in that line. In advance of this venture he had visited Cloud county several winters buying and shipping stock. In 1890 he brought his family, located permanently, and in 1893 rented the old Parks homestead adjacent to Meredith where he still resides, and 892 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. feeds from one hundred and fifty to two hundred head of cattle, and from two hundred to three hundred head of hogs. Mr. Mason was married in 1873 to AHce Ringo, a daughter of Andrew H. and Margaret (Wirt) Ringo, of Kentucky. Andrew Ringo was a n:i..rchant interested at Richmond, Liberty and Gallatin, Missouri, with residence in Richmond, under the firm name of Wirt & Ringo. Her father died in 1880 and her mother in 1873. Mrs. Mason is one of eight children, all of whom are living, scattered over various states of the L^nion. A brother, W. E. Ringo, was a member of Price's band and served during the entire war. Tie was county clerk of Ray county for eight years and is now collector of taxes. To Mr. and Mrs. Mason four children have been born, the eldest of whom is George, associated with his father in the store. He is a competent young business man, who received his education at Wesleyan College, Salina. The daughters are: Daisy, who assists her father in the store; Edna, a graduate of the Miltonvale schools, and Alma. Mr. Mason is a Missouri Democrat and is the present postmaster uf Meredith. The Mason hospitality is of the proverbial Missouri quality, where his neighbors, friends and strangers alike, always find their "latch string hanging out." .AHCHAEL F. SHEA. The subject of this sketch, M. F. Shea, a prosperous farmer of Meredith township and a brother of James Shea, is a native of Syracuse, Missouri, born in i860. He came to Kansas with the family in 1868, and located at Leavenworth, but one year later returned to Missouri. They came to Kan- sas again in 1872, and Mr. Shea bought the relinquishment to a timber claim of C. P. Carpenter which he improved and lived on five years and then bought eighty acres adjoining his mother's farm where he still lives. Mr. Shea started in life with absolutely no capital, but by his brawn and muscle has acquired a comfortable fortune. He now owns two hundred and forty acres of land, making stock raising his chief industry. He raises hogs extensively and has a fine herd of Hereford bred cattle. Li 1885 he erected a comfortable stone residence doing most of the masonry himself. Mr. Shea was married the same year to Maggie, a daughter of John Dooley, who was at one time a farmer of Cloud county, but is now retired and living at Concordia. Her mother was Mary Ann Murphy. Her parents were both of Irish birth. John Dooley came to America when a young man about twenty-one years of age and settled in New York City where he be- came a coachman in the family of a wealthy New Yorker. He later settled in Lebanon, Ohio, where he met and married Miss Murphy, who came from Ireland with her parents when a child. Thev settled in Cloud county in 188 1 where Mrs. Dooley died in 1887. Mrs. Shea is one of three children two HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 893 of whom are living; a sister, Mar)-, wife of INIichael Hart, a farmer of Ot- tawa county, Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. Shea are the parents of six children, viz: James, aged fourteen; William, aged eleven; Mark, aged nine; Thomas, Margaret and Lewis, aged respectively six, four and two years. Mr. Shea is a Bryan Democrat and takes an interest in political affairs. He has served as con- stable, treasurer and trustee of his township, and has been suggested by his friends for sheriff. Mr. Shea acquired his early education in a dugout at Meredith. He is considered one of the leading citizens of his township. They are members of the Catholic church, St. Peter's congregation. WILIJAM MARION HARDESTY One of the old residents of 1871, and one of the most worthy citizens of Meredith township, is W. M. Hardesty. He is a native of Iowa , born in 1844. His father was James Hardesty, and settled in Iowa in 1840, in the territorial days of that state. The Hardestys were of English origin. His father was a native of Ohio and moved to Indiana, and from that state to Iowa, where he died when his son, the subject of this sketch, was a small boy. Mr. Hardesty's mother was Mary Ann Tuttle, of Ohio. Her ances- tors were German people, and settled in Maryland. She died in 1869. Mr. Hardesty is one of thirteen children, six of whom are living; three of this number were triplets. The eldest brother, Joseph, is a farmer and stock- man of Barber county, Kansas. Two brothers, John and James, of Omaha, Nebraska, and two sisters in Louisa county, Iowa. By a second marriage there was one child, D. W. Tucker, of Iowa. Mr. Hardesty was educated in the subscription schools of their neigh- borhood. His father's means were meagre, as is usually the case with set- tlers in a new country, and his educational advantages very limited. At the age of eighteen years Mr. Hardesty enlisted in the United States army and served his country two and one-half, years. He was a member of Com- panv A, Ninth Iowa Cavalry, with Captain John C. Reed and with General Steele through Missouri and Arkansas, who was superseded by General Reynolds. Their brigadier generals were Trumbull and Geiger. They were engaged in arduous and dangerous guerrilla warfare a greater part of the time and many of their men were killed, wounded and taken prisoners. His brother Joe was captured, but paroled eleven days later. After the war Mr. Hardesty returned to Iowa and resumed the farm- ing he had undertaken before entering the service, continuing in that capac- ity until coming to Kansas in 1871. He came overland and homesteaded the farm where he now lives, erected a shanty 11x14, with roof sloping one way, but shingled, which was rare among the dwellings of that time, and there was one small window. In addition to this he built a dugout. June 7, 1872, he was married to Bella J. McXamer, whom he had known in Iowa. Mrs. Hardestv was born and reared in Louisa county and 894 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. educated in the high school of Muscatine, Iowa, and finished a teacher's course in Otterbine College of Linn county, Iowa, and was a successful teacher four years. In the pioneer days of Iowa, Mrs. Hardesty attended school in a primitive building erected for that purpose with puncheon floor and slabs converted into seats by inserting pegs for legs. Here she learned to read, write and spell, and add "i and i is 2," etc. She was twelve years of age when she could claim the ownership of a slate and fifteen years old when she became the possessor of a lead pencil. Her father was Nicholas A. McNamer. He was born in 1803, and died in his fifty-third year. He came to Iowa in 1844, and settled in Louisa county, where his brother Phillip had preceded him four years. Her mother was Margaret E^arnest, born in 1812, and died at the age of eighty-six years, in Davenport, Iowa. The parents were married in Pickaway county, Ohio. Her father emigrated in wagons to Iowa and purchased five hundred acres of land in Louisa county, which he put under a fine state of improvement and dealt in cattle and fine bred horses. He became a wealthy and influential farmer and stock breeder. Mrs. Hardesty's paternal grandfather was Philip McNamer. He with his family, consisting of a wife and three children, moved on foot, drove the cows and carried their clothing in bedticks, over the Alleghany mountains, a distance of three days' travel. Pier father was one of sixteen children. Mrs. Hardesty's maternal grandmotlier lived to be one hundred and eight years old. She with her family settled in Michigan in 1863, and at the age of ninety-five visited her daughter in Iowa. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church one hundred years. The Earnests Avere a religious and God-fearing people. Mrs. Hardesty's maternal great-grandfather Breece was a colonel in the Revolutionary war, and was killed in battle at Old Reading, Pennsylvania. Her youngest brother, Nicholas, was killed at Atlanta, while serving in the United States army, and another brother, Nehemiah B. Philip, was wounded the same day. Her eldest brother and a comrade walked and carried their satchels from Iowa to St. Louis during the winter of 1849, where they found the river open and took passage for California via the Isthmus of Panama. He worked in the mines there during the gold excitement of that period until 1865, when he was injured by a stone falling on him, and died several years later from the effect. Mr. and Mrs. Hardesty are the parents of eight children, one son and seven daughters : Florence, the eldest daughter, is a stenographer employed in the Cloud County Bank of Concordia. She was a teacher for several years, a graduate of the Delphos high school and in 1899 graduated from the Salina (Kansas) Wesleyan Business College. She has held her present position three years. Frances E. is a graduate in the common branches from District No. 3 and of the Delphos high school. She has taught school successfully and held the position of deputy clerk in the county clerk's office. She is now interested with her two sisters, Florence and Carolyn, in the millinery business at Clyde. Otis E., their only son, graduated from the Delphos high school HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 895 and in 1898 graduated from the ^Vesleyan Business College of Salina. In 1899 he was employed at the head of the commercial department of the Kan- sas Non-nal College at Port Scott. He was married in 1901 to Sybyl Crawford, a daughter of C. H. Crawford, of Ottawa coiuity. He takes an active part in politics, is a staunch Republican and is one of the rising young politicians of the county. Carolyn, now of Clyde, is a graduate of the Delphos high school and was a teacher in Cloud county for two years. The younger daughters are Marion, Dorothy, Josephine and Mildred. Mr. Hardesty was a Democrat until seventeen years of age. He then departed from that faith and has since affili- ated with the Republican party. The family are attendants of the Methodist Episcopal church. Bethel congregation. Mr. Hardesty is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic Post of Delphos. Mr. Hardesty has given considerable attention to horticulture and his orchard produces especially fine peaches and cherries. His farm consists of three hundred and sixty acres. He raises wheat principally and keeps a herd of about fifty head of cattle, which are chiefly milch cows. In corn years he raises from one to two hundred head of hogs. Mr. Hardesty and his family are people of admirable qualities. Their home is a pleasant one and his wife and daughters are intelligent,- refined and useful women, possessed of good business qualifications that go far toward making life a success. MARGARET ACKERMAN. Margaret Ackerman, widow of the late John Ackerman, an industrious and frugal German farmer of Meredith township, is a native of Germany, born June 13, 1834. She came when a young woman to America with her parents and located in the German settlement of Guttenburg, Iowa. They afterwards moved to Grant county. Wisconsin, where she was married to Mr. Ackerman and resided until 1883. That year they came to Kansas and bought land which they put under a high state of cultivation. Mr. Ackerman was an extensive traveler. He spent two years in England, one year in France, one year in Algiers and one year in Africa. He had followed the occupation of mining until after his marriage, never having plowed a furrow or harnessed a horse. His wife had been reared on a farm in Germany and she assisted him very materially. Mr. Ackerman was one of the group of eighty-four relatives who came to America on the same vessel ; all young Germans who prospered and are rep- resentative people. Mr. Ackerman died September 30, 1898. To Mr. and Mrs. Ackerman four children have been born, \iz : Annie Mary, who lives on a farm in Ottawa county. Peter, unmarried, lives with his mother, controls her business interests and operates the farm. Gertrude,, wife of Patrick O'Reily. Rosa, the youngest child, deceased in 1895. Mrs. Ackerman and her son own a tract of four hundred and eighty acres of land all under cultivation. They have been raising corn extensively until the present year (1901) when they have sowed one hundred and seventy ■896 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. acres of wheat. They raised one thousand fi-.e hundred bushels of corn on two hundred and seventy acres of ground in 1901, when the crop was almost a failure. They keep from sevent}-fi\'e to one liundred head of Shorthorn cattle ; have raised and fed as high as five hundred hogs, and keep on an aver- age two hundred head. They owe their financial success to cattle and hogs. Their land is situated on Pipe creek and no more fertile soil can be found in the country. In 1898, this farm produced fourteen thousand bushels of corn; two rows eighty rods in length shucked out twenty-eight bushels. They have had ground that produced one hundred bushels to the acre. The Ackermans are members of the Catholic church, St. Peter's congregation. ADELBERT D. CORNING. One of the genial and typical western pioneers of the Pipe Creek coun- try is A. D. Corning, the subject of this sketch, who settled on his present farm in 1868. Upon meeting JNIr. Corning for the first time the writer re- marked that he was included among the first settlers of the community. Whereupon he replied in pioneer parlance, with a majestic wave of his hand toward a range of hills across the creek to the westward, "Do you see them hills yonder? Well, when I came here those hills were holes in the ground." Mr. Coming's farm was not the traditional, but the real Indian camping ground in the days of the redman. They were attracted there by a large spring on Pipe creek, which runs through his land. This. desirable claim had been secured by some roaming buffalo hunters \\ho had built a dugout and turned the sod on twenty-seven acres of ground. Mr. Corning traded a yoke of oxen for the relinquishment of this homestead. In 1869, from a twelve acre wheat field cultivated with a yoke of steers and a single-tooth harrow, he threshed four hundred bushels of wheat. He also raised three hundred bush- els of corn that year and rejoiced in the belief that he had discovered the Ar- >cadia of the "new w^orld." Mr. Corning is a native of Boone county, Illinois, born in 1848. He received his early education in the graded schools of Caledonia, Illinois, and took a two j'cars' course in the Beloit, Wisconsin, High school. At the age of seventeen years he drove a team from Illinois to Denver, a distance of one thousand two himdred miles. This ga\e him a taste for pioneer life and in the spring of 1867 he came to Solomon City, where his father had preceded him one year and operated a portable saw mill as far up the Solomon ri^er as the town of Delphos. A. D. Corning was active during Indian uprisings. Upon one of these occasions John Jones was sent to deliver a message of warning to the settlers. His horse gave out and the errand was carried out by Mr. Corning, who says he raced over the prairies and warned them "good and plenty." Mr. Corning is a .son of ^^'illiam and Lydia ( Ingersol) Corning. From his mothers maternal ancestry he is a lineal descendant of the Hamlins, who were a distinguished old English family. \A'illiam Corning was a HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 897 wagonmaker by trade, born in Columbia, New York, in 1824, and as before stated came to Solomon City, Kansas, in an early day. He now lives in Minneapolis, Ottawa county, at the age of seventy-seven years. This ven- erable couple celebrated their golden wedding in 1896. The Corning family came to America from England, among whom was Samuel Corning, our subject's grandfather, of Albany, New Yoik, who was born in 1616, and all the Comings in this country are supposed to be from one or the other of these branches. A. D. Corning is one of six children, five of whom are living: Rosal- tha, deceased wife of William Chappel, a farmer of Ottawa county, Kansas. i\Irs. Chappel died in 1900, leaving two daughters, Alice and Edna. Clara, wife of Al Johnson, an elevator engineer of Enid, Oklahoma. Elva, wife of Jerome Hollingsworth, of Minneapolis, Kansas. Fred, a ship carpenter of Stockton, California. Myrtle, wife of Will Fann, a cabinetmaker and ship builder of San Francisco, California. Mr. Corning was married on the first day of the new year, 1875, ^^ Nettie Coffin, a daughter of Abner Coffin, originally from a Quaker set- tlement in New York. Mrs. Corning enjoys the distinction of having taught the first school in Meredith township. The Coffins emigrated to Illinois in 1866, removed to Kansas two years later and homesteaded the farm in Meredith township, now owned by Ezekial Jones. In 1891 he went to Okla- homa, where he died in 1896, and where the wife and mother still resides. The Cofifin family were" New Englanders. Mrs. Coming was the oldest of ten children, five of whom are living: Orrin, a farmer living near Puyallup, Washington; Frances, wife of Henry Yount, a farmer near Dover, Okla- homa; Jesse and Lewis, the two youngest sons, are farmers, also living near Dover, Oklahoma. To Mr. and ilrs. Corning have been born five children, three of whom are living : Bessie married to Earl Holph, a farmer of Meredith township ; Dicie, deceased in 1885, at the age of seven years; Hazel, a very bright and promising girl, died in 1897, at the age of fifteen years; Burt, a school-boy of fourteen years, and Leah, aged thirteen. Air. Coming now owns three hundred and ninety acres of land, with two hundred and thirty acres under cultivation, and is one of the most desir- able farms in Cloud county. He has thirty acres of timber, which is superior to that generally found in this part of the state. He fur- nished the first bridge timber at Concordia, and considerable that has been used for the various bridges throughout the country. His farm is in a high state of cultivation with an abundance of fruit. Mr. Corning has been very successful in hog raising. Since 1S75 he has sold twenty-five thousand dol- lars worth of hogs. He keeps a herd of from forty to fifty head of native cattle. He built the first frame house (of cottonwoods) on Pike creek in 1870, and the first frame barn in 1873. In 1882 he added on to and remodeled the house, and they now have one of the finest residences in Mere- 898 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. dith township, a commodious eight-room house, beautifully situated in one of the bends of Pipe creek. Mr. Corning's farm was in the line of the hail storm which came in 1889, and chopped through the shingles of the roof, tore through the screens and broke the window glass, killed twenty-two hogs and many chickens that were sheltered by the trees. He had one hundred acres of corn in hard roasting ear, from which not one ear was saved. Grass was pounded into the ground and a scene of desolation presented. Mr. Corning is a Democrat in politics. He served three terms as trustee of Meredith town- ship and is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows of Del- phos Lodge No. 149. Mr. Corning is one of those hale fellows well-met, whose friends are legion. AURORA TOWNSHIP. Through W. M. Durkee we are enabled to give an accurate, as well as an interestmg history, of Aurora and Aurora township. The first settler of the township was F. A. Thompson, who homesteaded the first quarter of land, section four, in the spring of 1869. He was then a single man and began housekeeping in a little dugout located on the banks of Elm creek, near where his pleasant, comfortable home now stands. After haA-ing lived this lonely life for about one year, in the meantime keeping a sharp lookout for the wily savage, Mr. Thompson took unto himself a wife and helpmate, in the person of Miss Mary Thomas. With this event life became worth living and he rejoiced in the fact that he possessed the same stick- to-itiveness so characteristic of Kansas pioneers. He had many times prior to this change in his bachelor life contemplated pulling up stakes and seek- ing a more congenial clime. ]N'Ir. and Mrs. Thompson have long since passed their pioneer days and are enjoying a substantial fortune which admits of all the comforts of life. In the year 1870, when the great tide of emigration rolled over Kan- sas, about a dozen or fifteen families settled in Aurora township. Among them were Jeremiah Burns, who later moved to Concordia, where he died in ,the latter part of the 'seventies. The Richards, Sam and ^A'illiam were sons-in-law of "Uncle Jerry." The former removed from the town- ship several years later, while the latter remained a citizen a brief time only. The first white child in the township was born to A-Ir. and Mrs. Sam Rich- ards in the' autumn of 1870 and is now a resident of "Concordia, where he owns and operates a dray. In that same year William Wilkerson came, a man of somewhat peculiar characteristics. ■ Ed. and George Grilley, and Theodore Healey, the latter filing on the southeast quarter of section two, the Grilleys taking the east half of section eleven. With AVilkerson came a' man by the name of John Gibson; each were men of families. An amusing incident transpired over the securing of a claim. Gibson owned a team of horses, Wilkerson an ox team. After camping and resting over night on the claim of O. C. Currier, they sallied out the next morning, which was Sunday, to recon- noitre for land. A few minutes later each conceded to himself section 900 HISTORY OF, CI-OUD COUNTY, KANSAS. twelve was a desirable quarter; neither expressed himself, but set about to secure a claim. Consequently, the next morning Mr. Gibson saddled his horse and started for Junction City. However, prior to starting a look in Wilkerson's tent revealed the absence of that individual, and suspecting he was enroute to file on the coveted quarter, Gibson started in hot pursuit. Gibson was a man of slow movements, but in this instance got a hustle on him- self; but although Wilkerson was on' foot he made the best time, arrived in Junction City and received his papers just as Gibson rode in. The inci- dent is similar to the tortoise and the hare. Gibson then secured the north- east quarter of section fourteen. Neither of these men are now citizens of the township, having removed many years ago. In the autumn of 1870 Henry Demars, Elzeor (deceased), Charles and Frank Letourneau came into the township. Demars and tlie surviving Letourneau brothers are now residents of Aurora: Demars and Elzeor were married men and left their families near Waterville, the terminus of the railroad. While preparing a place of habitation to shelter their families, their stock of provisions was reduced to turnips. The high water made dangerous fording of the Republican river at Clyde, and they were beginning to conjecture as to their probable fate, when Mr. Wilkerson came along with a wild turkey. They bought the trophy, cooked the turnips and the wild fowl together and had a feast fit for a king; but were compelled to draw their rations out and make them last for several days in order to sustain life. The house they were building was of stone and still stands. It has been remodeled, added on to and is the dwelling place of H. F. Rodgers. Those who settled in 1871 are too numerous to mention in detail. Early in this year were E. L. Prince, of Concordia, Sam Moyer (deceased in 1878), I. J. Smith (deceased in 1876), I J. I*. Cox, who is still a resident and lives on his old homestead; J. D. Springsted and A. B. Pennock also came into the locality ; others came later and by the time the year closed there were nearly or quite fifty families in the township. Early in 1871 the Princeville postoffice was established with E. L. Prince as postmaster. The mail was carried to and from .Shirley alternately by the neighbors. J. H. Springsted, W. M. Durkee and M. C. Pearson came in November, 1871. The two former are citizens of the town of Aurora, while the latter emigrated to Oregon. At this time there were but five houses in the township that could boast of, shingled roofs and they were very inferior in point of material and architecture. Mr. Durkee says the first piece of lumber he bought in Kansas was a board to be used in the manu- facture of a table. He bought it of "Uncle" Jim Hagaman, who was then a lumber dealer in Concordia, and paid seven caits per foot. The old table of thirty-two years still stands on its rudely, but substantially, built legs, and sometimes even now does duty as a table. In August, 1 87 1, the prairie in this locality Avas swept by a fire and burned nearly all the h:iy in the township, leaving the homestead settler HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 901 in a sorry condition. And as if to add to their misfortune a very severe winter followed. The last Sunday in November and the first Sunday in December of 1871 are remembered by Mr-. Durkee as the worst in the his- tory of Kansas during his residence of thirtj^-two years. However, no one froze to death, but were CYtn happy and contented. They spent most of their time that winter visiting and getting acquainted with their neighbors. In the springtime of 1872 the people begart to rustle in earnest, as what money the settlers had brought with them to the country was fast disappearing and about the only means they had of bread winning- was to haul freight for the Concordia and Clyde merchants from Waterville. This was the salvation of the poor settler, but everything was exceedingly high and rto one acquired a fortune; it was the sustenance of life rather than riches that the homesteader sought. In September, 1871, a child was born in the home of F.lzeor Letour- neau, which died sixteen days later. This was the first death of any white person that occurred in the township. In 1872 there was but one voting precinct for Nelson and Aurora townships and that was located in the • former. E. L. Prince was the first justice of the peace. The two townships were assessed by William Bris- bine. Early in the springtime of this year school district No. 20 was formed. The first school board consisted of E. L. Prince, G. M. Grilley and David Evens. After several meetings and considerable discussion they voted a six hundred dollar school bond and erected a school building that year 16x22 feet in dimensions. The contract was given to Jake Short, of Con- cordia. Miss Minnie Burleigh taught the first school in this first school house in the township at a salary of eighteen dollars per month. Miss Bur- leigh married later and removed to the southern part of the state. The peo- ple of this locality began to feel as if they were coming out of the wilderness and were becoming a civilized community, for they had a place to hold Sun- day school, occasional divine services, lyceums and social gatherings. Upon each of these various occasions the house would be full to overflowing with settlers full of good feelings and fellowship for each other. In the autumn of 1872 the township was organized, and at the sug- gestion of E. L. Prince the name of Aurora was adopted. The citizens of that locality now knew where they Avere located and began to assume importance. They did not gain in population this year as rapidly as in 1871, but there ■were several newcomers. What little small grain there was sown yielded well ; corn was a light crop. The first marriage ceremony performed in the township was in 1872 by E. L. Prince. Th,e contracting parties, Charley Beebe and Jennette Names, were both of Nelson tov.'nship. The first resident couple of Aurora township to be joined in wedlock were Ed. l.aw and Miss Grilley (a sister of G. M. Grilley), in the spring of 1873. The second couple to be married were A. B. Pennock and Lizzie Prince, a daughter of E. L. Prince. For some of the disgruntled citizens of the present time Mr. Durkee mentioned 902 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. some of the prices they had to pay in the early 'seventies. The first flour he bought was three dollars and fifty cents per hundred and that a second grade article; pork, fifteen cents per pound; one dollar for seven pounds of brown sugar; one dollar and twenty-fi\e cents per pound for tea; cornmeal two dollars per hundred pounds; twenty-five to thirty caits per pound for rope, an article much in demand in that da}-, when in the absence of hedges and fences the stock must either be herded or lariated. J. H. Springsted, who now li\'es in Aurora relates h(3\\' he went down near the Republican river and paid one dollar per bushel for corn the first winter he was in the county and helped shnck it to get feed for his horses, but in all probability fed them sparingly. Ed. Grilley, now a resident of Michigan, traded his farm and returned to that state in 1873, where he could be nearer his wife's people. He built the sixth house in the township and also the best one at that time. The first blacksmith shop was that of M. M. Rockwell, who filed on section twenty-four in 1873 '^''''^ established a shop there. In the spring of 1873 the first election was held in the township in the Princeville school house and something over fifty votes were cast, W. M. Durkee was elected trustee, F. A. Thompson clerk, and D. F. Cox treasurer. By this time there were one thousand one hundred and twenty-eight acres of land to assess, seven and one-fourth sections having been proved upon, the total value of which was one thousand four hundred and sixteen dollars. The total value of the personal property was eight thousand eight hundred and seventy-seven dollars ; total, thirteen thousand two hundred and ninety- three dollars. Most of the assessable land was in district No. 20. So the reader can readily see that taxes were somewhat higher than now, but the small grain was good, and corn fair, and some of the settlers had both. There were frequent showers up to July 23. At this date the locality was visited by one of the biggest pour-downs the author's informant ever remembers having seen in Kansas. It drove many out of their dugouts, washed away horses, cattle and farm tools that lay in low places. Many draws that were ordinarily dry were converted into streams of water fifteen to twenty feet deep. The season of 1873 Avill long be remembered by Mr. Durkee and his wife. They were awakened abotit midnight, arose from their peaceful couch and found themsehes wading m water too deep for comfort and more coming. AVhile enroute for quarters more safe they were trying to cross the stream and got into deep water, A\'hen wagon and all were carried down with the current until they struck shallow water several rods below. Mr. Durkee reached over the dash board and by holding on to the running gears held the vehicle together until they could reach the shore, Avhich they did without a scratch, but were somewhat excited. A young man who was visiting them from Michigan had expressed himself as not liking Kansas because it never rained. When they were disturbed from their slumbers their guest gathered a quilt and wrapped around himself as a protection from the flood that was pouring in over his head. In this forlorn condition Mr. Durkee could not HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 903 refrain from asking him if it ever rained in Kansas? Whereupon the young man who was very pious and not given to profanity, sullenly retorted : "You go to the devil !" This was the last rain for some time, but in the autumn of that year a prairie fire did much damage, so by the time winter set in the settlers found by fire and water they had suffered much loss. Mr. Durkee's loss footed up something over two hundred dollars; more than one-half as much again as the season's profit on the crop, but our informant says they have lived through all those trying scenes and have grown fat. J. B. Springsted was ''baching" in his dugout when the freshet came, and upon feeling some water ix)ur down upon his face, arose from his home- made couch and as he stepped out upon the floor, found himself in several feet of water. He made an exit by mounting the roof from the front of his dugout and climbed the hill from the rear. When the flood had subsided he found a horse hanging head downward in an elm tree, lodged in a crotch about fifteen feet above the ground. By ■r874 a goodly number of the first settlers had enough land broken to begin farming on quite a large scale, and although the grasshoppers came, had enough wheat for their own bread and to fatten their pork. Consequently, with a little aid for the more unfortunate everybody got along quite well. In the summer of 1874. the second school house in the township was built in district No. 56 on section five. It was built of stone, costing the district one hundred and fifty dollars, much of the labor being- volunteer. This is a joint district, part of it lying in Aurora township and a portion in Nelson. The district school board was composed of Henry Williams, J. E. Wood and F. A. Thompson. The latter was elected clerk and as a matter of his- tory, it must be recorded Mr. Thompson has held the office of clerk continu- ously ever since. Jennie Catlin was the first teacher receiving twenty-five dollars per month. The first resident minister was Robert Wilson, who came into the com- munity in 1873. He was a conscientious man but verjr poor and having a large family to support endured many hardships. In the spring of 1875 every man went to work with a will, and not only the men, but Mr. Durkee is chivalrous enougli to concede that the women are equally as deserving of praise. They performed their duties with but little murmuring. A larger crop was put in than ever before, the season was a good one and everybody prospered. In the spring of 1875 Stephen Travis, of Iowa, located on section twenty- eight, the homestead he had secured two years before. His advent in the neighborhood proved a Godsend, for he- was financially well-to-do and the settlers were not slow in grasping the opportunity of securing some of the old gentleman's shekels by assisting in the building of a new stone house and the numerous other structures he erected; digging wells, breaking ground, plant- ing sod corn, etc., the proceeds of which helped them pull through the sum- mer in fair shape. In 1875 H. H. Frazer came into the settlement and bought the M. M. 904 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. Turner claim on section thirty-five for fifty dollars. There was a stone hut and ten acres of breaking on the homestead. The next spring there was a postoffice established and H. H. Turner was appointed postmaster. He gave it the name of Sulphur Springs because of the two springs that are highly impregnated with sulphur and thought b}' many to contain valuable medical qualities. May 29, 1876, school district No. 24 was organized with Stephen Travis as director, J. A. Travis and G. D. Wood treasurer. Miss Alice Peifer was the first teacher employed, the consideration being ten dollars per month. The first term was held in the residence of Stephen Travis. It was also in 1876 that the first church was erected in the township. . It was built by the Catholics on section three. A few years later a little burgh was started at this point and called St. Peter. The supposition was that the railroad coming into this part of the county would intersect this point. In 1876 the black- smith and his family left Kansas for ]Michigan, where they had numerous relatives. Others of the old settlers dropped out and were replaced b_\- new- ones until in 1877 the township was quite well settled. In the spring of this year Joe Osborne purchased one-half section of H, H. Frazer's farm of one hundred and sixty acres, for which he paid one thousand dollars, built a store and opened a small stock of general merchan- dise. This was the first store in the township. The same season Doctor Melvin settled at Sulphur Springs and this was the first physician, but there was no cemetery and his practice was limited ; therefore Doctor Melvin did not tarry but a brief time. Things had been mo\'ing rather slowly in this local- ity, but the time had now arrived when the citizens realized the need of some- thing more than sorghum, corn bread, buffalo meat, jack rabbits, prairie chickens, etc. Wheat bread, ham, eggs, and other delicacies began to sub- stitute that common-place bill of fare. Then a desire came for new wagons, buggies, organs, better clothes and the enjoyments known to people of an older settled country and the longing for these luxuries occasioned many set- tlers to place mortgages on their farms to enable them to obtain the where- withal to indulge in them. Mr. Woodin, of Minneapolis, Kansas, a very ac- commodating individual, was in the habit of visiting this locality and loaned from three hundred to five hundred dollars, charging twenty-five dollars for each one hundred dollars, as a premium for his own trouble; and in addition to this the borrower paid ten per cent, on the amount specified. Many of his victims took the loan and skipped out, others hung on for a while and finally lost their farms; while some invested their money in young stock and came out all right, even at this exorbitant price for a loan. But it was bad management, as many learned to their sorrow later on. Sulphur Springs School District No. 48 was organized in 1876. The first school was taught in a shanty owned by A. B. Pennock and the first teacher of the district was Miss Rosa Bean. The first board was composed of Thomas Clegg, A. J. Ming and E. C. Pearson. In 1878 a strip was taken off from the north side of No. 48 and a portion from No. 20, from which HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 905 a new district was formed and gixen the number of 18. They voted one hundred and forty-five dollars bonds out of which to buy the lumber, and by contributing volunteer labor, a school house was built 16x22 feet in dimensions. The first school board was composed of W. M. Durkee, J. B. Hoyt and S. Moyer. The first school was taught by L. E. Townsend for the sum of fifteen dollars per month and board. District No. 48 voted sev- enty-four dollars bonds and built a small house the same year. About the same time E. H. Townsend came from Michigan and located on the Rock- well farm, ^\■here he started a store and sold about a year later to J. B. Dunn. The township gained in population and wealth until they had, in 1878, 7,983 acres ripe for assessing, valued at .$18,707. Personal property valu- ation, $10,708; total, $29,415. The statement may seem strange to some that the personal valuation should not exceed that of 1873 more than two thousand dollars. Some had doubled the amount of property and the same assessor did duty both years. But in 1873 he tried to give the actual figures at their cash value, while in 1878 he was more given to pleasing the people than obeying the letter of the law ; had it been otherwise, the valuation would have doubled that of 1873. In 1879 District No. 89 erected a school building. The first board was composed of Antoine Betters, Joe Whitehead and E. R. Jones. The record shows that one Budreau, after teaching two months, gave up the school, which was finished by L. E. Townsend. In 1880 District No. 84 erected a. stone school house. They voted eighty-five dollars bonds and accomplished, the rest by taxation ■ and volunteer labor. This made six school build- ings erected in the township since the advent of the first settler. The year 1880 found the township populated with a happy and prosper- ous people and about one hundred and forty voters. Elections were held in the school house of District No. 20 until 1880^ when the voters convened at the house of Joseph Chaput, near where the town of Aurora now stands. The community began taking on something of a metropolitan air and the hospitality so noticeable in the earlier days began to wane in the early 'eighties. It was not an uncommon occurrence for fifteen or twenty persons to occupy the same diminutive dugout or shanty over night or for se^'eral days, and not seem crowded. Air. Durkee says he well remembers the event of No- vember 24, 1 87 1, the first night he, with his family, spent in what is now Aurora township. It was one of those bitter cold nights when to be at home by a warm fireside is a luxury, that a household composed of seventeen per- sons spent the night in A. B. Pennock's bachelor quarters 24x14 feet in dimensions. Henry Demars relates how he entertained for _three days and nights twenty-two people in his dugout, which was but 14x18 feet. Can the modern Kansan conceive of accommodating so many people in a one-room house of those dimensions? In 1885 another physician settled in the township and hung out his shingle at Aurora Center, which was located on about the same site as school house No. 18. About a year later he removed to St. Peter and when Aurora 54 9o6 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. sprang into existence he pinned his fate to that town and settled there. His name is F. A. McDonald. He still holds forth in Aurora, where he is pros- perous and happ}'. From an early date much anxiety was evinced over the location of a town that must spring up somewhere in their midst. The peo- ple in the \icinity of Sulphur Springs naturally enough contended that they had the best point for a town and on the strength of their convictions established a store, blacksmith shop and a school house. The citizens ot Aiu-ora Center also wanted the site and made about the same start. Shortly afterward the folks in the vicinity of St. Peter, who already had a .church, conceived of building up a town in their midst and gained about the same footing. But, alas! all their efforts in this direction were bound to come to naught, for in 1887 a railroad was built through the township and the town of Aurora sprung into existence in 1888. I. Gennette moved his hardware store from St. Peter, Z. C}Tier came with his dry goods and grocery store. The latter ^\•as the first postmaster of Aurora, bringing the postofifice with him from St. Peter. But his career was short in the new town, for in less than six months he sold out and moved onto his farm. Mr. Gennette operated a hardware store and a feed barn for nearl}- two years, retired from business and moved awa\'. Beginning with 1880, "Uncle" I'hilip Miller conducted a grocery store and boarding house for se^'eral years, when he retired from business and is still living in Aurora enjoying a life of ease. Henry Parvin moved his store of goods from Rice to Aurora in the spring of 1880. He erected his own buildings, which were quite an addition to t!>e new \'illage. He also bought and shipped hogs. After three or four years he sold and moved away. In 1888 H. S. Breed moved his mercantile business from Rice to Au- rora, went to the wall a few months later and left the town. During tliis year two banks were established. One remained but a short time, the other several years. At present there is none, although a factor much needed. Eli Grandpre built and operated the first blacksmith shop in the town, but like some of the other inhabitants, tarried but a brief time. There were also two hotels, one condticted by Gravelin, the other by Mrs. Letourneau. The former withdrew several years ago, the latter is still there and cares for the trJiveling public in a very commendable way. Martin Brothers closed out after conducting a mercantile business for a short time. A\^ithin the space of one year Aurora made a wonderful growth; under the music of the hammer and the saw, business houses and residences sprang up until a fair- sized burg was the outgrowth. In 1891 School District Xo. 104 was organized. Fifteen hundred dol- lars bonds Mere voted and an excellent school building erected. In 1893 the Catholic church, a large and substantial structure, 45x122 feet on the ground, was built, at a cost of something over seven thousand dollars. L. A. Bartlett erected a large implement house and filled it with farm machin- ery, but closed out a year later. Gus Beauchamp started the first drug store, HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 907 which he sold th'ree or four years later to F. Longtin, who sold the store twelve months subsequently to its present proprietor, C. M. Troup. Early in the 'nineties, C. H. Steenburg and son filled the Parvin store building with a stock of goods and did business there about four years; they also had the postoffice. From 1893 to 1898 Aurora experienced what might be termed a standstill, or perhaps retrograded, as real estate depreciated in value. Times were hard there, as elsewhere, but with the dawning of 1898 things assumed a brightier or more rosy hue. New business men came in, property changed hands and since that period has been increasing in value. New buildings have sprung up and some of the old timers who have ac- quired a competency on the farm have located there, and judging from their homes and the comforts of life surrounding them, their intentions are to take life easy the remainder of their lives. Mr. Durkee says he finds by counting noses the population of Aurora early in the year 1892 were even two hundred inhabitants, a large majority of whom are a healthy, hearty and happy people. Of the first fifty homestead settlers of Aurora township only about one dozen remain, namely : F. A. Thompson, J. B. Springsted, who was said to be one of the best prairie fire fighters of the day; Lewis Letourneau, the land Croesus of the township, owning twelve hundred acres; Joe Dugas, once a noted politician; Andy Ming, the second largest land owner; Thomas Clegg, one of the staunchest Democrats in the county; J. H. Springsted, W. S. Frazer, W. M. Durkee, Charlie and Frank Letour- neau and Henry Demars. In 1 901 Aurora township contained one hundred, and forty families and seven hundred inhabitants. The total valuation of the real estate and personal property, according to the assessors' returns, was close to $146,- 000; the actual value would undoubtedly reach $500,000. There is now in 1903 two general stores, one flour and feed store, one drug store, a branch of the Continental creamery, a livery and feed barn, two blacksmith shops, one hotel, a lumber yard, a meat market, barber shop and two joints. The business of the town at this date is carried on by an entirely different set of people than at the beginning of the town, with the exception of the landlady of the Aurora Hotel, Mrs. Letourneau. WILLIAM MARTIN DURKEE. Prominent among the pioneers of Aurora township is W. M. Durkee, who added to the good citizenship of that community by casting his lot among them on November 24, 1871. He is a native of the state of New York, born May 26, 1836. His parents were Lucius and Lucy (Farwell) Durkee. His paternal grandfather was the Scotch emigrant to America and died at an advanced age where he settled in Cataraugus county, where Lu- cius Durkee and also our subject were born. That part of the country was a deep wooded wilderness; on these lands, remote from any settlement and in a very early day, this Scotch emigrant selected a site whereon to build 908 HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. a home. He assisted in the organization and naming of Farmersville town- ship, where the A-illage that bears that name later sprang up. Mr. Durkee's father visited IlHnois in 1855 with the idea of locating in that state, but after looking over the situation, returned home, where he lived until his death in 1885 at the age of seventy-six years. The Farwells were of English origin, Mr. Durkee's mother was of New York birth, but removed to Vemiont with her parents when an infant, where she grew to womanhood. They subse- quently returned to New York and settled in Rushford, Alleghany county, where she was married. She died in Januar)^ 1899, at the age of ninety-one years, in West Salamanca, where they had resided thirty-four years. Of the twelve children born to Lucius and Lucy Durkee but four are living: Our subject, a son in Michigan and two daughters in New York. W. E. Durkee was married in Barry county, Michigan, where he had located when about eighteen years of age, to Miss Harriett Backus, who was also of New York birth. With his family, which consisted at that time of a vnie and three little daughters — having buried one in Michigan, — they started for Kansas. Mr. Durkee had no boys to secure land for, the common apology, but was prompted to try the virtues of a frontier life to recuperate his failing health, which proved beneficial until 1889, when for four years he was. confined to his bed during the sumnter months; but since recovering from this physical collapse he has been able to transact the routine work of the farm, though now I'etired and living in Aurora. Mr. Durkee retains half of his original homestead and owns two other good farms. His worldy possessions consisted of a team and a few dollars in cash when he settled on the uncultivated prairie. To secure his homestead he traded his horses and wagon for the interest of another party who had filed on the claim, as it must either be purchased or contested. For three years he obtained the use of a neighbor's team by dividing the proceeds of the freighting profits, and when he broke his ground would turn an equal amount of sod for the man who furnished the team, thus making his means of livelihood doulaly arduous; and between these drawbacks — prairie fire, drowning by overflows, or crops burnt Idv the drouth — there was meagre existence. Their first mode of conveyance was one horse he had secured by trading around, hitched by chains tO' a sort of sled he had manufactured with cottonwood poles turned up for runners. Neither did they wait to be favored with a fall of snow, but after a shower of rain or a heavy fall of dew, the Durkees could be seen perched on the box that did duty as a seat for this cjueerly devised vehicle, wending their way across the prairies to visit a settler. But the "bluest" day our subject ever saw dawn was in the summer of 1875. just after the grasshopper raid. The family had survived the winter in good condition, with enough wheat left over to seed a small field, and uncon- scious of the depleted flour supply, without consulting the housewife, ^h. Durkee, after sowing the last vestige of grain, said boastingly to his wife, ' as he entered th'e house, "We will have flour enough next year." \\'here- upon she in dismay lifted the flour sack, revealing to him that there was only HISTORY OF CLOUD COUNTY, KANSAS. 909 about .a gallon of flour in the house and not one cent of money wherewith to buy more. While brooding over the situation and casting about in his mind how to relieve their condition and replenish their larder, there came a loud knock at the door. In tones more forcible than eloquent Mr. Durkee bade him enter. The visitor was E. L. Prince, "an angel of mercy un- awares," for his mission was to engage the assistance of his distrait neigh- bor in building a new school house, and a deal was consummated whereby Mr. Durkee was to be paid one dollar per day and board. He was comparatively a millionaire in a minute; the clouds that were hanging so heavily about him were lifted, revealing the silver lining. The bundle of groceries and dry goods purchased with the ten dollars for his ten days' work made him the richest man in Kansas. But the dawning of the 'eighties found Mr. Dur- kee gaining property, which he has continued to do until today he can live at ease and enjoy his hard earned fortune. ;\Ir. and Mrs. Durkee are the parents of eight children, six of whom are living, viz : Rosetta is the wife of J. B. Springsted ; Mary, the wife of Henry Rich, and Minerva, the wife of C. B. Roach; all influential citizens and farmers of Aurora township. Arthur J. also lives in Aurora township and is a prominent farmer. He married Cornelia Wheeler. Alson and Nile are both unmarried. The former is a resident of Sedgewick county and the latter of Aurora township. Mr. Durkee is a stalwart Republican and takes an ardent interest in political issues. He has filled the offices of assessor and justice of the peace. For about twenty-five years he was a member of the school board. After a strenuous life of labor, marked by many hardships and reverses, Mr. and Mrs. Durkee are enjoying a serene existence in a comfortable cottage home in Aurora, while their children, except one, are settled in life and live near them. INDEX. HISTORICAL. A City of the Third Class i6s A New Era in Kansas — 1866 75 A Pioneer Wedding 80 A Poem to the History of Cloud Coun- ty, by J. E. Burkhart of Miltonvale... 27 A Tribute to the Women of Kansas. . 121 Advantages and Attractions 120 Alfalfa 17 Ames 880 An Attempt to Change the County Line 58 Another Burial on the Frontier 57 Approving of Townsite and naming of County Seat IS4 Area of the State of Kansas. Altitude, Resources, etc 13 Arion Township 72 Aurora Township 899 Autumn Sunset 119 B. Banking History of Miltonvale 843 Benefit to the State 109 Bethel Methodist Episcopal Church.... 686 Bones in a Strata of Rock 142 Bridge Over Elk Creek 402 Brief Record of the State of Kansas. . 9 Buffalo Creek Valley 734 Buffalo Hunters from Grant Township go Buffalo Hunting on the Plains 88 Buffalo Hunting Expedition as Related by Geo. W. Teasley 95 Buffalo Township 71 Building of Wagon Bridge Over the Republican at Clyde 401 Burning Corn 15 Business Blocks erected — 'Concordia... 161 C. Catholic Church and Convent of Clyde 415 Catholic Church of Glasco 531 Center Township '. . 74 Changing the Name of Shirley to Cloud 32 Chinch Bug 748 Church of Christ 199 Church of Christ of Jamestown 744 Church of Christ of Miltonvale 841 Churches of Concordia 192 Church Organization of the Frontier. . 83 Claim Jumping 79 Cloud County Graduates 134 Cloud County Pioneer Association.... 143 Clyde's City Waterworks 400 Clyde Early History 398 Clyde Military Band 410 Clyde Postofifice 400 Clyde and Vicinity 407 Clyde's Watermelon Carnivals 405 Coal 18 Colfax Township 72 Concordia — Her Financial, Commercial and Industrial Interests 174 Concordia Town Company 156 County Fair Association 146 County Organization 28 County Seat Agitation 152 Creamery at Clyde 411 gi2 INDEX. D. Dark Days for Concordia 157 Description of the streets in Concordia 156 Disastrous Cyclone in Cloud and Clay Counties 125 Drouth and Hot Winds 17 Drouth in 1870 143 E. Educational 24 Elk Towinship 70 Elm Creek Settlement 6[ Events of 1872 163 Events of 1874 166 Exit of the Settlers in 1864 dj F. 4Fatal Fire in Clyde 404 First Christian Church of Concordia. . 197 First Newspaper 738 First Settlers of Cloud County 59 First School Building 160 First School in Concordia 79 First United Presbyterian Church of Jamestown 744 First Woman's Christian Temperance, etc 404 Floods in Buffalo Creek Valley 735 From Clyde to Waterville 37 Frontier Hardships 56 G. General Growth of Clyde 399 Geographical Center 19 Glasco Base Ball Team 537 Glasco Newspapers 525 Good Roads 106 Graded Schools 133 Grant Township 72 Grasshopper Visitation 107 Graves Postoffice 725 Growth of Concordia 173 H. Half Way, Lyon Township 697 History of the City of Concordia 150 History of the Cloud County Bank. . . . 186 History of Concordia Parish of the Catholic Church 200 PAGE History of the First Presbyterian Church of Clyde 413 History of the First Presbyterian Church of Glasco 529 History of the Glasco Schools 526 History of the Jamestowin Banks 740 Historical Mention of Concordia News- papers 166 Horticulture US Hospital of the Sisters of St. Joseph. . 216 How I-ewis Cassel, J. M. Hagaman and others got even with a Marauding Band of Indians in 1865 38 Hunting Narrative from Sibley Town- ship 91 I. Indian Raid on the Republican Valley. 52 Indian Raid on the Solomon River. ... 43 Indian Troubles on the Frontier 37 Introductory S J. Jamestown 736 Jamestown Postoffice 737' Jamestown School 738 K. Kansas! an Agricultural State 24 Kansas Cyclones 123 Kansas in the Refbellion 20 Kansas Wind as she is Blown 123 L. Lake Sibley iiS Lawlessness on the Frontier 55 Lawirenceburg 888 Lawrence Township 73 Lincoln Township 74 List of Premiums Won by Sunflower State 16 Lutheran Church of Glasco 532 Lyon Township 73 M. Macyville 708 Massacre of the Cassel Party 39 Methodist Episcopal Church of Con- cordia 198 INDEX. 913 PAGE Methodist Episcopal Church of Clyde... 412 Methodist Episcopal Chruch of James- town 743 Meredith Township 71 Militia Organization 48 Miltonvale 838 Miltonvale Base Ball Team 844 Minersville 888 Missionary Work in Kansas 22 Miss White Taken into Captivity 49 More County Seat Trouble 160 Murder of Joseph Nicholas Hagaman.. 55 N., Naming of Cloud County 30 Naming the Streets of Concordia 157 Nazareth Academy 210 Nelson Township 73 O. Oakes House SS2 Oakland Township 74 Opposition in the Senate 33 Organization of the Clyde Town Co... 396 Organization of the Militia 69 Organization of School Districts 132 Origin of the First Baptist Church of Concordia 196 Other Early Settlers in Concordia 159 Other Native Wild Flowers 104 P. Petrified Fish 142 Petrified Turtles 142 Phenomena and Idiosyncrasies 140 Pleasures of the Chase as Told by E. C. Davidson 89 Postoffices 888 Post Office Established S2S Prairie Fires 109 Precipitation of Rainfall for Forty- three Years m Prohibition 26 Prominent Women Take Charge of Jamestown's City Government 741 Q. Quinera 7 R. Ragweed 143 Railroads 127 PAGE Resume of the Cloud County News- papers 172 Rice 887 Romance of the Plain as Told by Uriah Smith 93 Rum Crusade 844 S. Salt Marsh 739 Scenic Lanscape 119 Schools in 1866 76 Shirley Township 71 Shooting Affair at Glasco 55 Sibley Butte 1 16 Snakes 106 Snake Den Story 106 Society in the Early Seventies 122 Society on the Frontier as seen by J. B. Rupe 63 Soil 115 Solomon Township 70 Solomon Valley 522 Solomon Valley Wool Growing Assn.. 534 Some of Concordia's First Citizens.... 158 Some Old Settlers 739 Stage Coaches 37 Starr Township ' 74 State Normal School 164 Statistics Recently Compiled 26 Strange Suicide in Lake Sibley 115 Street Scene in Concordia 174 St. Peters Catholic Church 890 Surface 114 T. Telephone System of Miltonvale 850 The Cathedral 202 The Church of Saron 749 The Concordia Blade 171 The Concordia Electric Light Co 184 The Concordia Library 189 The Concordia Public Schools 179 The Concordia Telephone Company. . . 185 The Conklins 64 The County Seat Skirmish 151 The Daily Blade 172 The Dugout 79 The Expositor 170 The Farmers Voice 453 The Feathered Songsters of Kansas... loi The First Free Methodist Church of Concordia 199 914 INDEX. PAGE The First Methodist Episcopal Church of Mihonvale 842 The First National Bank of Concordia 187 The First Presbyterian Church of Con- cordia 193 The Flood of June, 190^ 146 The Founding of the Empire 167 The Great Visitation of Grasshoppers in 1875 108 The Great Western Business and Nor- mal College 181 The Hessian Fly 747 The Jamestown State Bank 740 The Kansan 171 The Kansas Emigrant 16 The Killing of Benjamin White, etc. . 44 The Methodist Episcopal Church of Glasco S30 The Picnic 292 The Pike Monument 14S The Pomeroy Library 746 The Prairie Gem School House 804 The Primitive Court House 158 The River Before Changing its Course 177 The Sirocco or Hot Winds 142 PAGE The Summitt Free Baptist Church 708 The Sunflower 103 The Swedish Baptist Church of Con- cordia 192 The Times 172 The United Brethren Church in Christ- 195 The United Presbyterian Church of Miltonvale 839 The White Rock Massacre 42 The Young Men's Republican Club.... 144 Town Company Election of Officers. .. 159 Township Organization 69 Tree Culture 99 Twin Mounds 116 W. Wagon Bridge over the Republican River at Clyde 126 Walnut I^g found at a Depth of rw,enty-eight feet 143 Water Courses of Cloud County, Indus- tries, Towns, etc 117 Weather Bureau 185 Wonderful Growth in Timlber lOi INDEX. BIOGRAPHICAL. Abbey, John S 713 Ackerman, Margaret 89S Alexander, Edward J 302 Anderson, Eaton 500 Angevine, Charles H., M. D 466 Ansdell, Henry M 784 Ansdell, William R 775 Ashley, John H 386 Asmussen, Hans 658 Atwood, F. J 262 Avery, Arthur Augustin 379 Axelsson, Carl E 765 B. Baker, Reverend F. D 456 Baldwin, Charles N 800 Banner, Louis J 462 Barons, Samuel H 233 Bartlett, Hon. G. W. 492 Bates. Mrs. Alice L 239 Beach, W. B., M. D 478 Beaver, Rev. John NeSbitt 629 Beck, Frederick Peterson 622 Beck, Hans F. R 623 Beers, George W 626 Beesley, John 711 Belisle, Edmond A 272 Belo Julius Alexander 394 Berneking, W. C 676 Biggs, Rufus R 598 Billings, James W 429 Biographical Sketch of W. L. Larimore 182 Bishop, Frank S 705 PAGE Bis'hop, Leroy 706 Boggs, Rev. John 515 Boggs, John Newton 517 Bond, Susannah 666 Borton, Baker 495 Borton, Hon. Lewis Wetzel 472 Bourne, Daniel M 678 Bowman, Walter W 262 Bradford, Andrew J 450 Brandon, Honorable William L 469 Brierley, John Henry, M. D 593 Brooks. John 727 Brown, John 619 Brown, Honorable N. B 304 Brown, Virgil A 231 Burbank, James H 868 Burdick Hotel 845 Burgeson, Nathaniel Elias 718 Burkhardt, Joseph Elijah 875 Burroughs, George W 317 Burns, William McKindree 250 Bushnell, D. D., Horace 219 Butler, Pierce .- 624 Byrne, Dennis 494 C. Caldwell, Hon. W. W 340 Campbell, A. W., M. D 449 Cannon, Hon. William S 483 Carnahan, Hon. A. A 263 Carney, Albert Burton 259 Carpenter, Rev. C. E 760 Carter, James 808 Cartney, Washington George 274 Casselman, George C 685 9i6 INDEX. PAGE Champlin, George 807 Chapman, George W 699 Ghasf;, John Connelly 610 Chicago Lumber Company 353 Choquette, Napoleon Joseph 309 Christian, Valentine S13 Christianson, Anton 821 Christiansen, William C 819 Clenimons, Theodore D 794 Cline, Joseph H 329 Clithero, James 27s Cloud, Col. William F 34 Coate, Elwiood 331 Coffee, I. W., M. D • 316 Colernan, James Alexander 613 Colton, Henry 657 Colwell, George R 586 Concordia Ice and Cold Storage Co. . . 335 Collins, Dr. James . . . ^ 701 Corbett, Boston 242 Corning, Adelbert D 896 Coughlen, Richard 360 Crans, Lewis 221 Crum, Gabriel 71S Crump, ' Hon. W. S 443 Cunningham, Bishop John F 206 Cunningham, John V 660 Gulp, A. J 873 Culver, George M 286 Cutshaw, James W 827 Czapanskiy, William 881 D. Dailey, Murt 836 Davidson, Ezekiel Calvin 573 Davidson, Garrett 5^9 Davidson, John M. 460 Davidson, 'Hon. Lorean Forest 576 Davidson, William 575 l>avis. Hon. Gomer Taliesin 354 Day, Owen 564 Dawes, Isaac B 878 Dimanoski, Frederick 677 Doak, George W 393 Doak, Nathan 391 Doster, James L 477 Duby, George S 602 Duby, M. F : 600 Dunning, E. D 269 Durkee, William Martin 907 Dutton, Chester 364 PAGE Duvall, Lot M S9S E. Eberhardt, John 669 Effingham and Muscotah Telephone Co 416 Elfstrom, Mrs. Hilda 383 Elniff, Christian H 813 English, William 231 Everley, Hon. Simeon Oliver 680 F. Fairohild, S. V., M. D 865 Farr, William A., M. D 863 Fell, J. D 349 Fortney, Asa 337 Foster, Walter Scott 378 Franks, Charles Newton 632 Franks, Jacob 628 Franks, Samuel P 631 French, Nicholas M 824 Fuller, Gilbert L 636 Fuller, Lyman Otis 882 G. Gandreau Brothers 335 Gaylord, Rev. Hemingway J 498 Gerhardt, A. W 499 Gillett, Joseph 500 Giroux and Lavalle 459 Glasco 523 Glasco State Bank 533 Gould, Charles Irving 773 Gould, Edwin Adelbert 812 Gray, Henry 822 Gray, Lewis 818 Gregg, George Leroy 487 Groff, W. D 471 Guipre, Fred 717 Guipre, Joseph 712 H. Hagaman, Hon. James Manny 216 Halderson, Iver B 642 Hanson, James 867 Hanson, Hon. John 758 Hardesty, William Marion 893 Hare, John W 634 Hare, Marcus L 545 INDEX. 917 PAGE Harrison, Nelson & Co 269 Hart well, George M., M. D 763 Hay, Frances 458 Haynes, Edward R 587 Head, James W 599 Heller, David 449 Heller, Moses 454 Hibner, George 359 Hillhouse Family, story of 539 History of the Davidsons of Glasco. . .. 566 Hitchcox, Carl 797 Hitchcox, William 796 Hoagland, Frank 451 Hollis, 888 Holtzman, Thomas B 388 Honey, J. W 864 Honey, Randal 451 Horn, Charles 589 Hose, John G 509 Hubbard, Mrs. Catherine 579 Huff, John Henry 450 Huff, W. A 463 H urley, James 639 I. Ion, William J 779 J. Jackson, Thomas Jefferson 448 Jenkins, E. J 227 Joiner, J ohn W 508 Jordan, Everett W 633 Jordan, William 632 Judy, D. H 256 Juneau, George F 488 K. Kaad, George 810 Kelly, John 766 Kenyon, Edgar Martin 362 Kiefer, Elmer E 764 King, Ernest V 306 King, Hu'bert F 654 Kir-by, John L., D. D. S 482 Klein, Nichols 559 Knapp, Sidney H 479 Kocher, W. G 731 Koster, Hon. Frederick 857 Kristoft'erson. Charles 389 L. Laing, Theodore 241 Lane, F. A 752 Lane, Hon. F. E 757 Lamourcaux, David A 481 La Rocqi'e, Joseph A 635 Larson, Lawrence Patrick 252 Laughlin, D. F., M. D 433 Layton, Hiram D 829 Layton, Williap 376 Law, James W 504 Leslie, C. F., M. D 465 Libben, John Henry 606 Little, Archie C 265 Lindly, J'ames H 700 Loftus, Anthony 798 Long, E. E. and Lee 687 Long-McCue Lumber Company 325 Louthan, Edmund H 63S Lundblade, Hon. John E 769 M. Macy, George W 709 Mann, Alfred Amos 724 Mann, John A 560 Manna, F. X 497 Marcctte, A. R., M. D 271 Marlatt, Bertha A 293 Marshall, Edward 382 Marshall, J. Austin 767 Marshall, Moses 885 Martin, Joseph H . 677 Mason, J. C 891 Matthews, Hon. W. T 848 M'cArthur. James 861 McBiride, George 491 McBride, James 828 McBride, Mrs. Janet 776 McCall, Mary E 782 McDonald, Hon. C. W 233 McEckron, Hon. Boyd H 225 McFarland, Hon. James J 464 Mcintosh, Donald 456 McKellar Hon. Duncan 750 McLean, Robert 371 McMillan, B. F., D, D 596 Meredith 889 Messall, Hon, E. J 287 Milling Business of Cly,de 418 9i8 INDEX. PAGE Misell, Robert 285 Moger, John H 581 Mollier, Rev. Louis S18 Montgomery, A. H 719 Montgomery, Hon. Andrew R 762 Moore, Albert R 30S Moore, Boyd R 609 Morley, Benjamin P 43S N. Nadeau's Shoe Store 359 Neal, James H 670 Neeley, E. D 450 Nelson, Henry 791 Nelson, Nels, Jr 790 Nelson, Rev. Nels 785 Neill, James 874 Newton, William Brown, M. D 580 Nicol, James A 588 Noe & Moore 343 Noel L. E 607 Newels,' Stephen A 616 Q. Oakes, William Edward 582 Olsen, Hans 823 Ott, Augustus 561 P. Page, Cary J 502 Page, William H 511 Palmer, Warren W 547 Parker, William 650 Peck, Hon. Charles N. and William M 229 Pennock, Alford B 298 Pcrrier, Very Rev. Joseph 209 Peterson, Oscar W 816 Pepperell, W. H. L 299 Pigman, Samuel Carpenter, M. D 326 Pikher, Charles H 60S Pilcher, James F 605 Pilcher, James H. D 603 Potts, Charles Van Trabue 550 Poulsen, Lars 831 Prentiss, Hon. H. J 862 Price, James Voss 344 Price, Sylvester Baily 347 Priest, W. R., M. D 324 Prince, Ferd 557 PAGE Proctor, Charles 871 Frosser, William 631 Pulsifer, Park B 309 R. Raines &. Nelson 301 Randolph, Hon. John F 473 Ransopher, S. M., M. D 495 Ray, W. E., A. M 493 Reid, Albert Turner 444 Reid. William Emery 441 Reward, Arthur E 302 Rigty, Isaac Albert 249 Rishel, Lewis M 636 Rogers, Henry 704 Romeiser, Conrad 667 Rose, Captain Benjamin Franklin 233 Rushton, Enos 722 Rupe, Frank B 423 Rupe, Hon. John B 421 S. Sams, G. L 698 Samuel, Doran 468 Sargeant, Henry 437 Sawhill, W. F., M. D 297 Schwartz, Michael 331 Sclleck, Arthur 689 Sexsmith, Joseph D 238 Shay, J. W 860 Shaffer, George 663 Shea, James P 890 Shea, Michael F 892 Sheffield, Doddridge F 663 Shelhamer, Hon. A. J 233 Short, Hon. William T 311 Shrader, W. E 295 Sibley Town.ship 70 Smaile, George Washington 336 Smith, Benjamin P., M. D 847 Smith, Dwight M 272 Smith, Robert W 642 Smith, Soren Peterson 851 Smith, Uriah J 426 Smitley, Charles 662 Snyder, Fhoe'be 332 Sohlinger, Jacob 489 Soule, Harry L 612 Southworth Brothers 826 Spalding, Hamilton Mack 227 INDEX. 919 PAGE Spaulding, Aaron Hudson 591 Sparwasser, Anton 660 Stewart, Hon. John 288 Stimson, Robert E 457 Stockton, Martin Alexander 720 Strain, Hon. James 227 Strain, John 760 Studt, J. P 664 Studt, J. Wt & Brotlier 537 Squires, Hon. John 846 Sturges, Hon. F. W 27s Sweet, Charles Edwin 318 T. Taggart, Oscar R. 280 Talyor & Ahlberg 339 Teasley, James M 638 Teasley, George W 69s Teasley, William Washington 640 The Clyde Exchange Bank 410 The Clyde Milling Company 418 The Department Store of Scott & Lintz 312 The Dudley Lumber Company 350 The Elk State Bank of Clyde 409 The German & Lewis Furnishing Goods Company 276 "The Regulator'" 417 The Sweet Hardware Co 321 Thorpe, John M 453 TowJisdin, William S 240 Trudcll, Hon. Lewis M 854 Turner, David, Sr 425 V. Van De Mark, Hon. Charles N 484 PAGE Van Landingham, G. B 602 Vernon, John M 693 Vinnig, Robert H 451 W. Watson David Wesley 870 Weaver, Nicholas 613 Webster, Myron E 506 West, Hon. R. P 282 Westover, Judge Lorenzo 449 Wheeler, Hon. S. C 223 Whitcher, E. C 281 Whipp, W. C 256 Wiard, Byron M 368 Wilcox, Hon. O. W. F 768 Wilkes, George H., Sr 437 Williams, William Baker 380 Williamson, Enoch 607 Williamson, Thomas 45s Wilson, John D 223 Wilson, G. C 296 Wilmoth, Alvin Lee 336 Winter, Charles H 730 Winter, William P 729 Woodward, Mortimer L 584 Wright, George A 558 Wright, James 1 725 Wrong, Thomas 227 Y. Yuma 888 Z. Zahn, William 865 Zimmerman, Adoniram J 832 Zimmerman, Joseph 83S Zimmerman, Vivian E., M. D 310