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Benedict Brothers
JAMES BENEDICT.
WM. F. BENEDICT.
1873 Creswell Township Census shows...
James Benedict.
W. F. Benedict.
1874 Creswell Township Census shows...
James Benedict, age 39.
Wm. Benedict, age 52.
Kansas 1875 Census Creswell Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
James Benedict 40 m w Connecticut Ohio
Annie Benedict 34 f w Pennsylvania
? ? Benedict 12 f w Pennsylvania
Albert Benedict 1 m w Kansas
William Benedict 32 m w Connecticut Ohio
[L. H.] Benedict 33 f w Pennsylvania
May Benedict 13 f w Ohio Ohio
Maud Benedict 9m f w Kansas
[Note: Mrs. William F. Benedict, known after his death as “Lizzie H.” Benedict, was the sister of Amos Walton.]
Information on Amos Walton in another file. RKW made the following notes on “Walton” many years ago.
Amos Walton was born July 29, 1838, at Clarksville, Green County, Pennsylvania. He married Mary V. Murray in 1889. Amos Walton’s remains were buried in Riverview cemetery (lot 8-9-0).
Mary V. Walton, wife of Amos Walton, died June 3, 1954, at Edgetown Manor in Winfield, Kansas. She was born October 22, 1858, in Ohio. Her parents were Thomas S. Murray and Sarah Jane Ramage. She was buried in Riverview cemetery, lot 6-9-0.
Information by Olive Ramage.
Bertha M. Walton, born 1869 died September 2, 1893; buried in Riverview cemetery, lot 3-69-K. Sister of Mrs. A. D. Hawk, Mrs. S. Matlack, and Mrs. J. C. Topliff.
Emma H. Walton, born 1866, died January 11, 1887. She was buried in Riverview cemetery, lot 5-69-K.
Elving Walton was born in 1859 and died May 8, 1875. He was buried in Riverview cemetery, lot 7-7-J.
Baby Walton, daughter of W. B. and E. Walton, (three or four days old), died August 15, 1899. He was buried in Riverview cemetery, lot 1-0, and later moved to lot 8-9-0 in space with Amos Walton.
INFORMATION ON THE WILLIAM BENEDICT FAMILY.
On pages 53 through 57 of Volume I, Between the Rivers, the William F. Benedict family and other early Arkansas City citizens were covered. Mrs. Lillian Freed, daughter of May [or Mae] Benedict (Curtis) McNaughton, contributed notes made by her mother.
Notes kept by Mrs. McNaughton did not disclose dates.
Mrs. Freed submitted bits and pieces of her mother’s notes.
“Town of Creswell, now Arkansas City, located on what is now Highway 77, between two rivers, the Arkansas and the Walnut.
“We came to Creswell in a covered wagon. There were several families in our party making the trip. My uncle, Amos Walton, came with us, my parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Benedict, and myself. Mr. Denton’s family made the trip also. As our caravan approached the new town about where Highway 77 now crosses Kansas Avenue, the wagons were halted and my Uncle Amos shouted jubilantly, ‘Well, here we are!’ My mother, suffering with a bad case of homesickness, tentatively raised the wagon sheet at the side and looked out. All she could see was more buffalo grass, sandhills, sunflowers, jack oaks, and cottonwoods. With tear filled eyes she quavered, ‘Where’s the town?’ Uncle Amos, eager to cheer her, cast about for means to accomplish it, and called out ‘Lizzie, look over there—see the little buffalo!’ Sure enough the sight of a baby buffalo nestling in the brush by the roadside diverted her for the rest of the distance to town.
“Things that happened sixty years ago now seem like just yesterday to me. As a little girl, I wanted to draw and paint pictures like my teacher, Miss Lizzie Swarts (later Mrs. C. R. Mitchell). I visited her often. Her home was just south of the schoolhouse (later called Roosevelt schoolhouse) and one of her pictures was of a young boy. It hung over the big square piano. Each time I was in her home, I would make notes of various details, such as ‘color of his eyes (blue), hair (yellow)’ likewise his coat. I always carried an assortment of bits of paper for the notes which I used later at home to try to reproduce Miss Swart’s masterpiece. But painting was only a dream until much later.
“In 1882 I married William Curtis. After our first little baby came, I had my first painting lesson. When he was six months old I was visiting my husband’s family in Cambridge, New York, while he was on assignment in Panama with an engineering corps constructing the Panama Canal. He worked for the French contractor, Ferdinand de Lesseps, who started the early project in 1882. It was at this time while I was visiting in Cambridge that Miss Graves came from New Jersey weekly to teach a class in painting.
“I recall my early impressions of this new country—the rolling prairies, the cottonwoods, goldenrod, and the sunflowers, and especially the sand hill knoll where Creswell was located. The small townsite was surrounded by vast fields of corn and acres and acres of wheat where once there was only prairie and buffalo wallows. Grasshoppers were everywhere and in 1874 they came in a great black cloud roaring in out of the west, with a hissing sound. They lighted on everything, coming about the 20th of July. By evening they had eaten everything. Nothing was left but memories.
“One horrible recollection was the Houghton fire. Mr. and Mrs. Theoron K. Houghton had just finished moving to their claim east of town. As Mr. Houghton was returning after taking the last load, he turned to look back and saw the house in flames. Nothing was saved. Fires in those days raged out of control because of the strong Kansas wind. Farmers burned a wide strip around their claims to keep the fires from spreading.
“Most farmers used windmills to raise water from the ground as long as the wind blew, which was often. There was the story of a visitor from the East who didn’t enjoy the regularity of it. It got on his nerves. He asked a cowboy, ‘Does the wind blow this way all the time out here?’ The cowboy replied, ‘Well, it’ll blow this way for a week or so, and then it’ll change and blow like hell for awhile.’
“One time my mother was adjusting her ringlets and bonnet—getting ready to make a call on a friend. She heard a noise and looked around to find a rattlesnake near the bureau, coiled ready to strike at the family cat. Mr. Topliff and my father killed the snake with a hoe and a stick.”
[The “Mr. Topliff” referred to was James C. Topliff, who was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1838. I have a file on him. Topliff was in Emporia for a short time before coming to Cowley County in October 1870. He located a claim in Bolton township in 1872 and moved to Arkansas City in 1874. He served for many years as the postmaster in Arkansas City.]
“All freight came from Wichita via freighters. They would bring wild game from the Indian Territory, prairie chickens, quail by the dozen, and venison cut in strips and dried. One time when making a purchase, some of the paper money blew away. A paper quarter was found two weeks later caught in a ragweed bush.
“The buffalo was indispensable to the Indians. It furnished food, clothing, and shelter. The Indian’s life was really wrapped up in the life of the buffalo.
“In the late ’70s and early ’80s, the cowboys were a common sight because there were so many cattle drives from Texas to Caldwell and Hunnewell, and further north. Longhorn cattle thrived in southern Texas and could stand the long drives north, going long stretches without water and other hardships. Wild and nervous animals—they sometimes would stampede. Driving cattle was a real man’s work. And when the cowboys would arrive in Caldwell and Hunnewell, they always painted the town red.
“Although there were occasional scares about the Indians going on the warpath, and often frantic scurrying among the townspeople, preparing for such events, we encountered no actual trouble with them.
[Apparently Mrs. McNaughton was too young to realize how the local militia under newly appointed Col. Gould Hyde Norton faced the Osage Indians in August 1874 when they were threatening to attack Arkansas City. The story of Capt. Gould Hyde Norton, the first postmaster in Arkansas City, is fascinating.]
“Some of our surveyors were massacred in the territory, but I do not recall anything serious happening in Creswell. It was hard to get used to Indian faces pressed against windowpanes. However, they seemed friendly and finally mother accepted the lack of privacy in performing her housework. At first, she didn’t ask them to come in, later she would offer them food. One time mother was away, and returned to find her kitchen filled with an Indian family. They had eaten all the freshly baked bread and one of the men reached into his blanket and brought out another loaf, and finished up the last of the sorghum.
“Indians walked single file, with the squaws at the rear. The ponies had tepee poles attached to the harness with pole ends dragging on the ground as they moved.
“Indian scares and stringing up horse thieves contributed to the excitement of those days.
“In the fall, usually November, big bundles of tumbleweeds, like bushel baskets, would blow about and we children would build houses out of them.
“Usually, Fourth of July was celebrated down at Riverside. Amos Walton would be the speaker. He was big, kindly, and a very entertaining speaker—humorous and articulate. The speaker’s platform was large enough to be used for a square dance afterward.
“Aunt Mollie Leonard and her husband, Dr. Leonard, lived on a claim east of town, south of Madison—about where Sleeth Addition now stands. Theirs was a sod house, but what a wonderful home—Aunt Mollie had a Mason Hamlin organ and how she could play that organ. She was a fine housekeeper and wonderful cook. Everyone felt welcome there and so much food always. Remember the tin wedding anniversary for them, especially a delicious cake she served, made with dried apples.”
After studying the above item, it is apparent that daughter May [or Mae] Benedict, who became the wife of Mr. William Curtis, was quite young when she described her visit to the sod house of Mollie [Mary] and Dr. M. R. Leonard.
The “M. R. Leonard” file is fascinating to study. It appears that Dr. M. R. Leonard, who was never mentioned as a practicing physician in the early Traveler issues that are available to us starting with 1876, was an unsung hero. In 1878 Dr. Leonard, a Democrat and a Greenbacker, was elected as Representative from the 89th district. The newspapers ignored his accomplishments. Leonard worked hard on two projects: navigation on the Arkansas river and getting a railroad to come to Arkansas City. Many years later on October 23, 1886, Dr. M. R. Leonard was praised by an unknown correspondent in the Arkansas City Republican.
“. . . Will you be kind enough to tell us of some one legislator from this district who ever did as any great good since this district has been organized? There never was but one and that was Dr. Leonard.”
Returning to the article submitted by Mrs. Lillian Freed relative to the Wm. Benedict family, the following item was written by Mrs. May Benedict (Curtis) McNaughton...
“At my wedding Mrs. [C. R.] Sipes ‘dressed the bride’ and Mrs. C. M. Scott (then Maggie Gardner [Gardiner] and Aunt Mamie made the wedding bell. The men wore alpaca coats and some of the women’s dresses were made of alpaca. Wedding outfit bought at John . Mrs. Wilson wore a black chignon. Reverend Fleming performed the ceremony. My wedding dress and veil were later used in a play at the Presbyterian Church.”
The wedding of May [Mae] Benedict to Mr. Wm. Curtis took place on June 14, 1882.
“Aunt Mamie” was the wife of Dr. Nathan B. Hughes. The 1875 census of Creswell Township listed her name as “Olive.” I found the entry most confusing for Dr. and Mrs. Hughes inasmuch as it made his age 41 and her age as 26. May Hughes, a daughter, was mentioned as being 9 years of age. Their son, Bert, was not mentioned unless the entry showing “Adell, 4 months” pertains to him. Mamie Hughes was a sister of Mary or Molly Leonard. Their father was Hugh Campbell, of Topeka, who came to Arkansas City in March 1880 to visit his daughters, Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Leonard. Mr. Campbell was one of the oldest residents in Topeka, having settled there when Topeka was a small village in 1859.
Dr. Nathan B. Hughes was an active physician, becoming a member of the executive committee of the newly formed Cowley County Medical Society on Tuesday, January 8, 1874. He became involved in many activities in Arkansas City and in the Indian Territory. He succeeded C. M. Scott as editor and proprietor of the Arkansas City Traveler and Postmaster at Arkansas City. In July 1879 he got himself appointed as trader at the Sac and Fox Agency. Family was important to him as it was to Leonard. In order to assist Mrs. Leonard when she became ill, Dr. Nathan Hughes and his family went to Eureka Springs and assisted Will Leonard in starting a newspaper there in February 1881. Dr. and Mrs. Leonard and the rest of the family had gone to Florida for her health and did not like it. They joined Dr. Hughes and Will Leonard at Eureka Springs. In October 1881 both Dr. Hughes and Dr. Leonard sold their property at Eureka Springs and moved to Texas. On October 11, 1882, the Traveler announced that Dr. Hughes was stopping at the state capital, the residence of his father-in-law. It is not known whether or not “Aunt Mamie” sent the wedding bell from Texas or Topeka. Furthermore, the article does not make it clear whether or not Aunt Mamie and her husband, Dr. Hughes, attended the wedding.
[See file on Dr. Nathan Hughes for details on this family.]
Other items appeared in the article submitted by Mrs. Lillian Freed that related to her grandmother, Mrs. William F. Benedict.
Pauline Sleeth in one of her stories of early days in Arkansas City quoted Mrs. W. F. Benedict in the following incidents.
“The first preaching services in town were held in the blacksmith shop of Paul Beck, a building consisting of four upright walls, but no roof, no floor. The seats for the service were boards laid across boxes. George Walker erected a pulpit by driving four two-by-fours into the ground and nailing a slanting board atop. When he finished it, he stood back and exclaimed, ‘Well, there, I think that looks pretty damned nice.’
“On the following Sabbath morning from that improvised pulpit, a man from Emporia preached the first sermon in Arkansas City to a congregation of thirty or forty sitting before him on uncomfortable, backless seats. It was undoubtedly a good sermon, for no one was reported asleep.
“Mrs. William Benedict reported the above and also the following story about this service. She and her husband had come to town from the East a few days previously. On Sabbath morning they donned their best clothes in the latest Eastern style. Mr. Benedict wore a high silk hat and Mrs. Benedict a gay poke bonnet and a dress of fine material. Entering the building, both were suddenly aware that their apparel was decidedly different from that of the other worshipers—the men in ordinary everyday clothes, most of the women wearing slat sunbonnets. Upon reaching their abode later Mr. Benedict laid the hat aside and vowed he would never again wear that ‘high silk hat’ and said he and Mrs. Benedict must observe the old saying, ‘While in Rome, do as the Romans do.’
“Some time later George Walker asked for the hat and received it as a gift and wore it for some time. Then one day he and the hat walked out of town never to return.”
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 26, 1876.
Ad: Benedict & Bro. Hardware and iron stoves, tinware, iron and wooden pumps! Lead pipe, lightning rods, etc.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
Benedict & Co. make the new patent colt and calf weaning bit. It is a success.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1876.
Mr. Kager traded his house in town and other property for Jas. Benedict’s farm, last week.
Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 25, 1876.
Mr. Wm. Benedict was confined to the house a few days ago from a blow he received on his leg while chopping wood.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 20, 1876.
Benedicts’ are putting up a number of neat parlor stoves.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 24, 1877.
Notice: Benedict & Co. have a good, cheap, wooden pump, just the thing for farmers.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877.
The Democratic pole of this place has been constructed into a hitching rack at Benedict’s store, and the jacks and mules are tied to it as before.
James Benedict and wife have a boy...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1877.
Born, on last Saturday morning to Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict, a ten-pound boy.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1877.
A special meeting of Crescent Lodge will be held at Benedict’s Hall this Wednesday evening.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1877.
LAND FOR SALE!
WALTON & HOFFMASTER.
Will sell your lands. We keep a team constantly on hand to show lands, and have all the requisites of a first-class Real Estate Office. Call and see us, in the Benedict building, corner of Summit Street and Central Avenue, Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1877.
Benedict & Bro. are repairing the building south of Gardner’s new house for Mr. Wilson, the dry goods man of Leavenworth. They are also laying a brick sidewalk in front of it.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
A committee composed of Wm. Allison, Cliff. Wood, Frank Williams, Rev. Platter, E. C. Manning, and Dr. Mansfield from Winfield visited this place Tuesday, March 27, for the purpose of combining an east and west railroad proposition with the Walnut Valley project. A meeting was held in Pearson’s Hall in the afternoon, and a committee of seven elected to meet and confer with them, composed of Amos Walton, James Benedict, Frank Lorry, S. P. Channell, C. R. Mitchell, J. C. McMullen, and C. M. Scott.
The committee from this place agreed to unite the two propositions if they could be voted on at the same time on the same ballot, and if it was not legal to vote for both on the same ballot, then they wanted the Winfield people to vote for the Walnut Valley project first, and our people would give them every reasonable assurance and pledges that they would support the proposition offered, or any definite project from the east.
No positive agreement could be made and the matter was adjourned.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
Railroad Meeting.
A meeting was held at Pearson’s Hall on Tuesday, March 27th, to consult with a delegation from Winfield on railroad matters. S. P. Channell was elected chairman and I. H. Bonsall, secretary.
Rev. Platter requested Col. Manning to address the meeting, and explain a proposition he had with him for an east and west road; also to inform our citizens of the actions of meetings held at Winfield on railroad matters. He said that Winfield wished to avoid a clash, if possible, and to come to some understanding with this part of the county in regard to railroads. Mr. Millington and himself were sent by the people of Winfield to the eastern part of the State, to see what the prospects were for an east and west line. They went to Fredonia first, and found things too uncertain there to make it worthwhile to wait on the uncertainty; from thence to Parsons, where they found the people holding a conference with Eastern contractors; from there they proceeded to Oswego, and found the situation such as to give no hope of help from that quarter. They then returned to Parsons, and had a full conference with the Parsons men, and found as good prospects for a road from that point as from Emporia.
Col. Manning admitted that a proposition he read for the Parsons road had not been accepted by the railroad company, but that he would make the company accept it.
They returned by the Parsons route proposed, and in their estimation found a good route. The franchise is being worked up as far as the east line of Elk County.
In Elk County the petition had been signed by a sufficient number, but they preferred to change the proposition from township bonds to county bonds, as the recent change in the railroad law made it possible to carry county bonds.
Winfield feels that an election for railroad bonds at this time would be premature, and prefers to wait until the other counties have voted and secured a line to Cowley County.
Rev. Platter thought Col. Manning had given a true version of the case as it now stood, and said that Mr. Hamilton, a civil engineer, wanted Winfield to call an election for the Parsons road. He believed that the present proposition of the Emporia road was such as would not be sustained at all, there being clauses which, in his estimation, could not be changed to suit at all.
He said Winfield wanted an east and west proposition submitted at the same time that the north and south proposition was submitted, and that if Arkansas City wanted a north and south road, she must consent to an east and west road to secure the support of Winfield.
C. M. Scott moved to appoint a committee of seven to confer with the Winfield delegation, and see if a compromise could not be agreed upon. After considerable discussion, the motion was seconded, and the following committee appointed: Frank Lorry, of Bolton, Amos Walton, C. R. Mitchell, S. P. Channell, James Benedict, C. M. Scott, and Col. McMullen.
On motion meeting adjourned, to give the committees time to confer.
S. P. CHANNELL, Chairman.
I. H. BONSALL, Secretary.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
CITY ELECTION.
The election of city officers took place last Monday, quietly and peaceably, with the following result.
Mayor: Dr. Kellogg.
Police Judge: Jas. Christian.
Councilmen: James Benedict, H. P. Farrar, James I. Mitchell, H. Godehard, I. H. Bonsall.
There was another ticket in the field, composed of Wm. Sleeth for Mayor, Judge Christian for Police Judge, and A. A. Newman, O. P. Houghton, E. D. Eddy, J. A. Loomis, and J. T. Shepard, for Councilmen; but as one was composed of, or was generally understood to be “license” men, the issue was made “license” and “anti-license,” and the vote stood 70 for the former and 41 for the latter. Both tickets were composed of the best men of the community.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1877.
In the race for Mayor last Monday, H. D. Kellogg received 72 votes, Major Sleeth 40, and Rev. Thompson 1.
For Police Judge, James Christian received 112 votes, and Rev. David Thompson 1.
For Councilmen, Jas. Benedict received 72, E. P. Farrar 72, Jas. I. Mitchell 72, H. Godehard 71, I. H. Bonsall 71, A. A. Newman 40, O. P. Houghton 40, E. D. Eddy 40, J. A. Loomis 40, Dr. J. T. Shepard 40, Rev. Wingar 1, Rev. Swarts 1, Rev. Will York 1, L. C. Norton 1, J. C. Topliff 3, Sherb Hunt 1.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1877.
WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE
FROM LEAVENWORTH, KANSAS,
SECOND DOOR SOUTH OF BENEDICT’S.
I have this day opened an excellent assortment of Spring and Summer Dry Goods, Ready-Made Clothing, Boots and Shoes, Fancy Goods and Notions, Which I will sell at the very lowest possible rates FOR CASH! You are respectfully invited to call and examine the goods. As I have come to stay, I shall use every honest effort to make WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE Known all over this beautiful new country for Fair Dealing, Low Prices and First-Class Goods. Respectfully, A. WILSON.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1877.
A continuous brick sidewalk and awning is to be built from Mr. Wilson’s store room to Benedict’s corner.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 25, 1877.
During the absence of His Honor, H. D. Kellogg, James Benedict will act as City Father.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 25, 1877.
The City Council met and organized last Saturday. Wm. Sleeth was appointed Treasurer and I. H. Bonsall City Clerk. No Marshal or Street Commissioner was appointed. The officers are: Mayor, H. D. Kellogg; Police Judge, Jas. Christian; Councilmen: James Benedict, H. P. Farrar, J. I. Mitchell, H. Godehard, and I. H. Bonsall.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 2, 1877.
Benedict and Gardner are going to build another building between their stores on Summit Street, and erect a new tin shop in place of the old one.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 2, 1877.
Mayor’s Proclamation!
NOTICE TO DOG OWNERS: On and after the 1st day of May, A. D. 1877, all dogs found running at large, within the city of Arkansas City, not having a proper check as provided by ordinance, will be liable to be killed by the City Marshal, and the owners of such dog or dogs, will be liable to arrest, and upon conviction before the Police Judge, fined in sums not less than $5.00 nor more than $10.00 for each offense.
Arkansas City, May 1st, A. D. 1877.
JAS. BENEDICT, Acting Mayor.
I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 9, 1877.
Council met in regular session, at the office of I. H. Bonsall, Monday, May 75h, James Benedict acting Mayor; J. I. Mitchell, H. P. Farrar, Ho. Godehard, I. H. Bonsall, Councilmen.
Judge Christian reported on his trip to Winfield to redeem city lots sold for taxes, but not paying all taxes due, they were not redeemed.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 9, 1877.
NEW DRUG STORE. In another column will be seen the advertisement of L. H. Gardner & Co., who have opened a lot of pure, fresh drugs, and liquors, and offer them to the public at reasonable rates. Anything in the drug line can be purchased of them, and they will be very glad to have you given them a trial.
AD: NEW DRUG STORE! IN ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
L. H. GARDNER & CO.
Have opened a Drug Store in the new building south of Benedict’s store, and have just received a large and fresh supply of Drugs, Patent Medicines, Chemicals, Paints, Oils, Varnishes, and Pure Liquor for Medicinal Purposes.
Physicians’ Prescriptions Carefully Compounded by an Experienced Druggist, at any hour of the day or night.
James Benedict...
[ORDINANCE NO. 54: ORDINANCE RELATING TO LIQUOR LICENSE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 16, 1877.
BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Councilmen of the City of Arkansas City:
SECTION 1. No person shall keep a saloon, or place where malt or spirituous liquors are sold in any quantity, without having first obtained a license for that purpose; and any person violating the provisions of this ordinance shall, upon conviction, be fined in a sum not less than twenty dollars nor more than one hundred dollars for each offense.
SECTION 2. An annual tax of two hundred dollars shall be levied and collected from each person or firm owning or conducting any saloon, dram shop, or place where malt or spirituous liquors are sold, on the first day of May of each year, or when such persons or firm commence business; provided that when they shall make application after the last day of May of each year, they shall only pay in proportion to the fractional part of the year, but in no case shall any deduction be made for the fractional part of a calendar month.
SECTION 3. All persons owning or conducting any saloon, dram shop, or place where malt or spirituous liquors are sold, shall, in addition to the requirements of this ordinance, comply in respects with the provisions of an act entitled “An act to restrain dram shops and taverns, and to regulate the sale of intoxicating liquors,” approved March 3, 1868; and any person violating any of the provisions of said act, or of this chapter, shall, upon conviction thereof, where not otherwise specially provided for, be fined in a sum not less than one nor more than one hundred dollars.
SECTION 4. Ordinance fifty-one (51) of the City of Arkansas City is hereby repealed.
SECTION 5. The above Ordinance No. fifty-four (54) shall be in force on and after its publication once in the Arkansas City Traveler.JAMES BENEDICT, Acting Mayor.
Attest: I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.
James Benedict...
Winfield Courier, May 31, 1877.
County Commissioners’ Proceedings.
OFFICE OF COUNTY CLERK,
Winfield, Kansas, May 25th, 1877.
Board of County Commissioners met in special session. All the board present, with James McDermott, County Attorney, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk. Among other proceedings had the following jury and election fees were presented and allowed.
Election Fees: James Benedict, $2.00.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 13, 1877.
Benedict & Bro. have greatly improved their store by elevating the floor of their work room to a level with the salesroom.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1877.
REMOVED. PARKER and CANFIELD have moved their lumber from under A. O. Porter’s blacksmith shop, and may now be found back of Benedict’s building.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1877.
And the butt of Democracy that was left after the cutting of the pole on Benedict’s corner is sprouting. It is too tender a growth, however, to endure the chill of winter.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 25, 1877.
Everyday new machinery is sent out by Channell and Benedicts’. On the corner of Benedicts’, the sidewalk is blocked with fanning mills, hay rakes, etc.
James Benedict: visiting old home in Ohio...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 19, 1877.
James Benedict will make a visit to his old home in Ohio next week.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 19, 1877.
Benedict & Bro. are making four-gallon fruit cans. We believe they are a good thing. The fruits can be used from the small cans first, and then saved to re-can those from the four-gallon can.
May Benedict...
[LADIES’ SEWING SOCIETY: THANKSGIVING FESTIVAL.]
Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1877.
The following committees have been chosen by the Ladies’ Sewing Society for their Thanksgiving Festival.
FISH POND.
Mattie Mitchell, Mary Theaker, May Benedict, Annie Norton, Annie Hutchinson, Linnie Peed.
May and Cassie Benedict...
[SCHOOL REPORT: STUDENTS LISTED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 7, 1877.
SKIPPED THE DEPORTMENT, SCHOLARSHIP, ETC. JUST LISTED NAMES OF PUPILS IN THE HIGH SCHOOL WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARDS. REPORT WAS GIVEN BY E. R. THOMPSON.
Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Emma Mitchell, Nellie Swarts, Mary Theaker, Anna Hutchinson, Linnie Peed, Linda Christian, Flora Finley, Laura Gregg, Susie Hunt, Susie Berry, Belle Adams, Mary Wintin, May Benedict, Cassie Benedict, Carrie Cramer, Sarah Randall, Mary Holloway, Jerry Adams, Lewis Coombs, John Parker, James Lorton, Fred. McLaughlin, Peter Trissell, Charles Holloway, Beason Gardner.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1877.
E. B. KAGER has removed his office to the room over Benedict’s store.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1877.
The Knights of Honor meet Tuesday, November 20th, at Benedict’s Hall.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 21, 1877.
TWENTY-SIX BUILDINGS UNDER WAY.
A BUILDING ASSOCIATION WAS FORMED A FEW WEEKS AGO, and entered into by twelve parties, agreeing to build a house each. Since then fourteen more have declared their intention to build. The original twelve were:
S. P. Channell, W. M. Sleeth, A. A. Newman, L. H. Gardner, O. P. Houghton, Gardner Mott, H. P. Farrar, Silas Parker, J. L. Huey, C. R. Sipes, R. C. Haywood, James Wilson.
The additional fourteen are: J. C. McMullen, Thomas Baird, J. Dodwell, Mrs. Dean, C. C. Wolf, E. J. Fitch, Mr. Ray, Wm. Speers, T. A. Gaskill, D. Logan, J. T. Shepard, Kendall Smith, Jas. Benedict, David Finney.
Mr. Gaskill has his house almost enclosed, and the foundations and preparations are being made for several others.
May and Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 28, 1877.
E. R. THOMPSON GAVE LIST OF THOSE WITH 90 TO 100 IN DEPORTMENT, HISTORY, ARITHMETIC, GRAMMAR, GEOGRAPHY, ALGEBRA, BOOK-KEEPING, SPELLING, AND READING...HIGH SCHOOL...FOR LAST MONTH.
GIRLS: ANNIE NORTON, MATTIE MITCHELL, EMMA MITCHELL, NELLIE SWARTS, MARY THEAKER, ANNA HUTCHINSON, LINNIE PEED, LINDA CHRISTIAN, FLORA FINLEY, LAURA GREGG, SUSIE HUNT, SUSIE BERRY, BELLE ADAMS, MARY WINTIN, MAY BENEDICT, CARRIE BENEDICT, CARRIE CRAMER, SARAH RANDALL, AND MARY HOLLOWAY.
BOYS: JERRY ADAMS, LEWIS COOMBS, JOHN PARKER, JAMES LORTON, FRED. McLAUGHLIN, PETER TRISSELL, CHARLES HOLLOWAY, HENSON GARDNER, HARRY FINLEY, ANDREW GEORGE, CHARLIE WILSON, WILLIE EDWARDS, AND ROBERT BERRY.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1877.
Houses are in Demand. Benedict & Bro. have contracted to rent their house that is to be built next to Berry Brothers, before the foundation was laid.
Mrs. James Benedict and Mrs. E. B. Kager related to Welsh, new minister...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1877.
JOHN C. WELSH, the new Minister to England, is a brother-in-law to Mrs. E. P. Wright and an uncle to Mrs. James Benedict and Mrs. E. B. Kager, all of this place. Effingham Lawrence, late Collector at the port of New Orleans, is also a relative of the above named parties.
[IMPROVEMENTS IN AND AROUND OUR TOWN.]
Arkansas City Traveler, December 12, 1877.
Dr. Shepard is erecting a two-story frame store room on the vacant lot between Gardner’s drug store and Benedict & Co.’s hardware establishment.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
ARKANSAS CITY ITEMS.
A new storeroom is being built, between Benedict Bros. and Gardners, by Dr. Shepard. There are a number of applicants for it, but who the lucky person is we have not heard.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 19, 1877.
MASONIC.
The following persons were elected officers for the ensuing year, of Crescent Lodge No. 133, A. F. and A. M., at their hall in Newman’s block, on Saturday evening, Dec. 15.
Worshipful Master: Clinton Robert Mitchell; Senior Warden: Orrin C. Smith; Junior Warden: Sewell Peasley Channell; Treasurer: Charles R. Sipes; Secretary: Isaac H. Bonsall; Tyler: Steven C. Wintin.
The following officers were appointed by the Worshipful Master, on Tuesday evening following.
Senior Deacon: James Benedict; Junior Deacon: Harry Pearce [Prince] Farrar; Senior Stewart: Henry Bear Pruden; Junior Stewart: William J. Stewart.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 26, 1877.
Dr. Shepard’s new house, between Benedict and Mr. Wilson’s, is erected.
Repeat: Relation of Mrs. James Benedict to Welsh, minister...
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1878.
The Arkansas City Traveler says that the new minister to England, John C. Welsh, is a brother-in-law to Mrs. E. P. Wright and an uncle to Mrs. James Benedict and Mrs. E. B. Kager, all of that place.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 20, 1878.
One of the best arranged cottage houses that has been built lately is the one just east of Mr. Benedict’s, built by Silas Parker for James Wilson. The location is a good one, and will always be pleasant.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 6, 1878.
CITY COUNCIL met Monday. JAMES BENEDICT is acting Mayor, and makes a good one. He bears the honor very meekly.
May Benedict, Carrie Benedict...
[HONOR STUDENTS: HIGH SCHOOL.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 6, 1878.
AM JUST GOING TO LIST NAMES:
GIRLS: Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Emma Mitchell, Nellie Swarts, Mary Theaker, Linnie Peed, Linda Christian, Flora Finley, Laura Gregg, Susie Berry, Mary Wintin, May Benedict, Carrie Benedict, Carrie Cramer, Sarah Randall, Mary Holloway, Stella Swarts, Mollie Christian, Clara Morgan, Annie Brown, May Hughes, Emma Theaker, Albertine Maxwell, Annie Hutchinson, Belle Birdzell.
BOYS: Jerry Adams, Lewis Coombs, John Parker, James Lorton, Fred. McLaughlin, Peter Trissell, Charles Holloway, Harry Finley, Willie Edwards, George Berry, Benny Dixon, Alvin Hon, Sammy Swarts, Frank Randall, Charlie Randall, Linton Hunt, Frank Swarts, Charles Swarts.
James Benedict...
[CITY ORDINANCE NO. 58.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 13, 1878.
[Published March 13, 1878.]
Ordinance No. 58.
Entitled an ordinance to provide for an election of city officers.
BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Councilmen of the City of Arkansas City—
SECTION 1. That an election be held at I. H. Bonsall’s photograph gallery on the first Monday, the first (1st) day of April, A. D. 1878, for the purpose of electing the following city officers, to wit: A Mayor, five Councilmen, and a Police Judge.
SECTION 2. That said ordinance No. 58 be in force after its publication once in the Arkansas City TRAVELER.
JAMES BENEDICT,
Acting Mayor and President of the Council.
Attest: I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 3, 1878.
The election of city officers took place last Monday with the following result.
MAYOR: JAMES BENEDICT, 61; W. M. SLEETH, 37.
COUNCILMEN: J. T. SHEPARD, 63; WM. SPEERS, 59; THOS. BERRY, 63; C. R. SIPES, 58; I. H. BONSALL, 61; S. P. CHANNELL, 40; A. A. NEWMAN, 37; H. P. FARRAR, 37; E. D. EDDY, 37; T. H. McLAUGHLIN, 40.
POLICE JUDGE: JAMES CHRISTIAN, 84; TIMOTHY McINTIRE, 12.
Total number of votes cast: 98.
It is generally supposed that the officers elected will favor granting a saloon license on a proper petition.
James Benedict’s well...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 17, 1878.
WHILE blasting rock in James Benedict’s well, a few days since, a piece of ore was obtained having the appearance of silver. When put to the test it was found to contain a small quantity of silver, with a mixture of iron and zinc. Wilson County has been airing herself considerably of late on the silver question, but Cowley can’t be outdone.
Benedict Brothers, James Benedict...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 18, 1878. Front Page.
ARKANSAS CITY.
A Flourishing Town on the Border of the Indian Territory.
A Magnificent Valley Between the County Seat of Cowley
County and the Border Line.
[Special Correspondent Kansas City Times.]
WICHITA, KANSAS, APRIL 7, 1878. Last week I took a trip down the Arkansas Valley to Wellington; and from thence to Winfield, the county seat of Cowley County. In company with one of the best citizens of Winfield, I took a drive to Arkansas City, a beautiful town of five hundred inhabitants, situated on the borders of the Indian Territory, and at the confluence of the Walnut and Arkansas rivers. This was one of the most agreeable rides I have ever taken in Kansas. I have explored the state from north to south and from east to west; I have traversed the valleys of all the principal streams, and have looked upon the most beautiful sections of the state, but I am compelled to admit that I have never passed over a more fertile district or gazed upon a more lovely landscape than that which lies between Winfield and Arkansas City. The valley of the Walnut is about two miles wide and is generally greatly undulating. In some places, however, there are rocky bluffs, and in others there are whole sections as level as lawn. The wheat in this valley is as fine as ever grew out of the ground. There are thousands of acres of it between Winfield and Arkansas City, all of which is looking splendidly. There are fields containing hundreds of acres, which covered with a rich, strong, healthy growth, waving in the breeze, presents as fine a sight as the eye ever gazed upon. No artist can equal it, and no pen can describe it.
Benedict Bros. have the principal hardware store. They handle stoves, tinware, and implements.
James Benedict was elected Mayor of the city at the recent election.
The people of Arkansas City are intelligent, cultivated, and enterprising. They support an excellent newspaper, the Traveler, and will ultimately have one of the best towns in the State. S. M. F.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.
GOODS uncalled for at the Express office in Arkansas City. Parties will please call and get them. JAMES CHRISTIAN, Agent.
S. P. Channell, 3 packages; Mansor Rexford, 1 package; Ellen M. Finney, 1 box; Thomas Brown, 1 box; F. Sommers, 1 box; Benedict Bros., 1 package; James Root, 1 seine; Ellen Bank, 1 trunk; A. Wilson, 1 package; J. A. Loomis, 1 package.
Lots for sale near James Benedict’s...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 24, 1878.
FOR SALE.
One blacksmith’s shop and stable with two lots, across the street from Finney’s livery stable, and four lots all together near James Benedict’s; 160 acres of land with 30 acres improved, near Goff’s, 3 miles north of town; five acres adjoining town site, on the northwest, sown in wheat, will be sold cheap for cash or on time.
MRS. DIANTHA T. THOMPSON.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 1, 1878.
The barber shop has been removed to the new building just south of Benedict & Bros. hardware store.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 1, 1878.
The harvest of wheat will begin in three weeks. Already Channell, Benedict, and Sipes are sending the machines on to do the work.
James Benedict: house for rent...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.
HOUSE FOR RENT, 3 rooms, $6 per month. Inquire of Jas. Benedict.
The Daily Winfield Courier, Saturday Morning, May 11, 1878.
Arkansas City Items.
Benedict & Bro., dealers in hardware, are an old, well known, and prosperous firm.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.
List of Advertising Business Houses of Arkansas City
and Winfield.
Benedict & Brother, Hardware, Machines.
Mayor James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 19, 1878.
MAYOR BENEDICT is at Lawrence on business.
James Benedict...
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.
C. & J. Walton to James Benedict, lots 15, 16, 17, and 18, block 88, Arkansas City, $500.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 7, 1878.
PAINFUL ACCIDENT. Last Saturday evening, while experimenting in riding “bare-back,” Miss May Benedict was thrown from her pony, breaking her right arm. The unfortunate young lady has the sympathy of all, the extreme warm weather making such an affliction doubly hard to bear.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 14, 1878.
The string from Newman’s block to Benedict’s upper story is the conductor of the telephone. You can put your ear at one end and your mouth at the other and hear everything that is said.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 4, 1878.
Wm. Coombs has rented the Bowen building, and intends opening a meat market. L. H. Gardner also intends keeping all kinds of fresh meat in the room adjoining Benedict’s store.
Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 2, 1878.
School Report.
The following is a list of scholars who have been perfect in attendance and punctuality during the past month. The annexed standing gives their grade in class as determined by the
examination.
GRAMMAR DEPARTMENT.
Fred McLaughlin, 98; Mary Theaker, 97; Stella Swarts, 97; Linnie Peed, 93; Mary McClung, 92; Charlie Grimes, 91; Mattie Mitchell, 90; Carrie Benedict, 89; Jessie Findley, 86; Georgia Findley, 80.
PRIMARY DEPARTMENT.
Angie Small, 95; Lillie Mitchell, 92; Hugh Leonard, 90; Gracie McClung, 90; Frank Theaker, 90; Perry Fullerlove, 85. C. H. SYLVESTER, Principal.
MRS. L. THEAKER, Assistant.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 27, 1878.
Farmers who have subscribed wheat for the boat will please bring it forward without delay as the boat is about ready. It can be delivered on the boat below the bridge or at Benedict’s store in the city.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 11, 1878.
The following officers of Crescent Lodge, No. 133, were elected at the last regular meeting, Saturday evening, Dec. 7th, 1878.
Sewell P. Channell, W. M.; James Benedict, S. W.; Jas. I. Mitchell, J. W.; Henry P. Farrar, Treasurer; Isaac H. Bonsall, Secretary; Lafe McLaughlin, Tyler.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 8, 1879.
School Report.
The following are names of scholars who have been absolutely perfect in attendance and punctuality during the last school month.
GRAMMAR DEPARTMENT.
Fred. McLaughlin, 96; Linnie Peed, 85; Charlie Grimes, 86; Mary Theaker, 92; Jerry Adams, 95; Samuel Reed, 88; May Benedict, 85; Susie Hunt, 84; Willie Patterson, 74.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 22, 1879.
The following were duly installed as officers of the Knights of Honor for the ensuing six months on the first Tuesday in January, 1879.
James Benedict, P. D.; S. P. Channell, D.; I. H. Bonsall, V. D.; Thos. L. Mantor, A. D.; O. P. Houghton, Chaplain; T. H. McLaughlin, F. R.; E. R. Thompson, R.; Manson Rexford, Steward; I. M. Ware, Guardian; G. Mott, Sentinel.
Mrs. James Benedict not dead!...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 12, 1879.
We were startled last Sunday evening by the report that Mrs. James Benedict had just expired with pneumonia. On the following morning we found the report to be not only false, but that death had been nowhere near that pleasant home. It looks a little unprofessional for practitioners to have their patients dead or dying when they appear on the streets soon after. If they will recover in spite of the treatment, keep them in bed long enough to create a profound belief in the skill of the physician.
May Benedict...
[SCHOOL REPORT.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 12, 1879.
The following are names of scholars who have been absolutely perfect in attendance, punctuality, deportment, and good in scholarship.
ROLL OF HONOR.
Mollie Christian Mary McClung
Mattie Mitchell Linnie Peed
Mary Theaker Emma Theaker
Charlie Grimes Fred. McLaughlin
Walter Patterson
The following are deserving of honorable mention for diligence, good behavior and nearly perfect attendance.
May Benedict Laura Gregg
Jessie Finley Anna Hutchison
Susie Hunt Stella Swarts
Annie Norton Jessie Sankey
Jerry Adams Lute Coombs
George Endicott Samuel Reed
Wm. Randall Charlie Randall.
C. H. SYLVESTER, Principal.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1879.
If you are in want of a new cook stove, come to Arkansas City to purchase it. Benedict Bros. and C. R. Sipes have stoves with all the modern improvements that will please the eye of the house-wife, while their fuel consuming properties have some compassion for a man’s pocketbook.
Mayor James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 19, 1879.
Arbor Day.
By order of the Mayor and Council, Tuesday, March 25th, A. D. 1879, is appointed as an arbor day, and all citizens interested in improving the town are most respectfully requested to furnish trees and turn out and take part in the work of the day. Quick growth trees will be the most suitable. It is desirable to have the ground around the School House well supplied with trees. It is also suggested that each person furnish as many trees for their own lots as their circumstances will permit. JAMES BENEDICT, Mayor.
[ORDINANCE NO. 64.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 19, 1879.
RECAP: Ordinance to provide for an election of city officers. Election to be held at I. H. Bonsall’s Photograph Gallery on Monday, April 7, 1879, to elect a Mayor, five Councilmen, and a Police Judge. JAMES BENEDICT, MAYOR.
I. H. BONSALL, CITY CLERK.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 2, 1879.
Benedict Bros. are putting down a good substantial walk in front of their store. Will others take pattern.
May Benedict...
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1879.
Miss May Benedict, of Arkansas City, spent last week at this place, visiting Miss Jennie Lowry.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1879.
The electric spark struck the rod on Benedict’s store during the shower on Monday morning and sent a flea into the ears of the naughty boys who pinched the baby during prayer time.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1879.
On one of the windiest days of last week the flue on Mr. Benedict’s business house took fire and some of the burning fell to the ground on some straw on the south of the building, causing a lively time in the rear end of the west side corner, for it is somewhat dangerous after a flue has not been used for a few days to put in fire and parties should be very careful especially on windy days.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1879.
Benedict Bro’s. are putting up a new set of Fairbanks Scales in front of their hardware store.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 11, 1879.
Native Lumber at Parker & Canfield’s, back of Benedict’s. All bills can be filled promptly from Lippman’s mill, by leaving orders with Parker & Canfield. Soft lumber, $2.25; hard lumber and walnut, $2.75. Township bills filled, for bridges and culverts, and orders taken in payment.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1879.
We notice a new pair of platform scales in use before the store of Benedict Bros.
Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 9, 1879.
Miss Carrie Benedict is visiting at Pawnee Agency.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 9, 1879.
The material for the new paper is mostly received. The office will be in the room over Benedict’s store.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 17, 1879. Editorial Page.
DEMOCRATIC TICKET.
For Sheriff: C. L. Harter, Winfield.
For Treasurer: Mc.D. Stapleton, Lazette.
County Clerk: G. S. Story, Rock.
Register of Deeds: Jas. Benedict, Arkansas City.
Surveyor: Ed. Millard, Silver Creek Township.
Coroner: Dr. D. V. Cole, Winfield.
Commissioner, 2nd District: S. B. Adams, Arkansas City.
James Benedict...
[DEMOCRATIC CONVENTION.]
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.
The County Convention of Democrats met on Saturday, the 13th, at 11 o’clock a.m., at Manning’s Opera House, in this city.
It was called to order by Hon. A. J. Pyburn, Chairman of the Central Committee. Dr. D. V. Cole was elected temporary chairman, and J. C. Keenan, secretary. Judge T. McIntire, H. S. Silver, I. D. Hon, E. P. Young, and Wm. Moore were appointed a committee on permanent organization. R. D. Jillson, Robert Hanlon, and L. Weimer were appointed a committee on credentials.
James Benedict was nominated by acclamation for Register of Deeds.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
Miss May Benedict entertained a very select party of friends at her pleasant home on Friday evening last. Miss May has the happy faculty of making everybody feel at home around her.
Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
Miss Carrie Benedict gave a pleasant party at the residence of her father on Saturday evening.
William Benedict: sells his interest in hardware store to brother, James...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
William Benedict has disposed of his interest in the hardware store to his brother, James, and retires from active business. Benedict Bros. were among the pioneers to this happy land, and by strict attention to business have built up a trade that rivals any in the Southwest. An hour passed with the Benedicts generally drives away the blues. The business will continue at the old stand under the firm name of “Benedict & Rose,” where a large stock of choice goods in the hardware line are on sale.
Mrs. William Benedict visited by sister, Ella Walton...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.
Miss Ella Walton, of Lawrence, spent a few days last week with her sister, Mrs. William Benedict.
Benedict & Rose: successors to Benedict Bros. Hardware...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.
We call attention, in this issue, to the new ad. of Benedict & Rose. Mr. Benedict is known throughout this country as a thorough businessman, and Mr. Rose, of Douglas, who has lately gone into this firm, is known throughout the Southwest as a large dealer in hardware and perfectly reliable in all his transactions. Give them a call and you will feel no need of going elsewhere.
AD: Benedict & Rose, Dealers in HARDWARE, STOVES, TINWARE, AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS, WAGON IRON AND STEEL, BLACKSMITH MATERIAL, WAGON WOOD WORK, BUILDERS’ HARDWARE AND CARPENTER TOOLS.
All kinds of Joining in Tin, Sheet, Iron, and Copper ware, Tin Roofing, and Spouting done to order. Prices Low. Call and examine. BENEDICT & ROSE.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1879.
We have this day formed a co-partnership under the firm name of Benedict & Rose, for the purpose of carrying on the Stove, Tin and Hardware business, at the old stand of Benedict & Brother. We hope by square dealing and honest goods at low prices to receive a liberal share of patronage. JAMES BENEDICT, D. S. ROSE. September 15, 1879.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 8, 1879.
Mr. Benedict’s new building was blown over by the wind on Tuesday, damaging the timber considerably.
Cyrus Benedict of Ohio, brother of James and Williams, visits...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 29, 1879.
Cyrus Benedict, of Ohio, the brother of the old firm of Benedict Bros., is here on a visit. If he possesses the social qualities of the old firm, he will attract the attention of our people.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879.
James Benedict has returned from Chicago looking fresh and fair and chuck full of Grantism. James is a sensible man and his observations are sharpened by going from home.
Benedict Store???...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1879.
Coal! Coal!! Coal!!! Orders by the hundred or ton.
LEONARD & CO., Benedict Store.
Benedict Building???...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1879.
MONEY at lower rates than can be found elsewhere. A. WALTON, Benedict Building.
Mr. James Benedict, Mrs. James Benedict, Mrs. William Benedict, May Benedict, Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 10, 1879.
RECAP: LADIES INVOLVED WITH THE LADIES’ SOCIAL SOCIETY, FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, FESTIVAL ON CHRISTMAS EVE.
COMMITTEE ON ARRANGEMENTS: Mrs. N. B. Hughes, Mrs. Huey, Mrs. A. A. Newman, Mrs. McClung, Mrs. James Benedict.
SOLICITING: East side of city: Mrs. W. Benedict and Mrs. C. R. Sipes. West side of city: Mrs. Hutchison, Mrs. J. T. Shepard. East Bolton: Mrs. Denton, Mrs. Dr. Carlisle. West Bolton: Mrs. Guthrie, Mrs. Marshall. East of Walnut: Mrs. E. Parker and Mrs. N. Kimmell.
FANCY TABLE: Mrs. Wilson, Mrs. L. McLaughlin, Mrs. Berger, Miss Annie Norton, May Benedict, Linnie Peed, Carrie Benedict, Annie Hutchinson, Mary Theaker.
PROCURING STOVES: C. R. Sipes and James Benedict.
OYSTER TABLE: Mrs. Sipes, Mrs. W. Benedict, Mrs. T. C. Bird, Mrs. T. Mantor, Mrs. J. H. Sherburne, Mrs. C. Parker, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Watson, Mrs. Anna Patterson.
Rose takes over James Benedict’s Hardware; James Benedict becomes salesman...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1879.
DISSOLUTION NOTICE.
The co-partnership heretofore existing under the firm name of Benedict & Rose is this day dissolved by mutual consent. D. S. Rose will continue the business at the old stand and settle all accounts of the late firm. JAMES BENEDICT, D. S. ROSE.
Arkansas City, Kas., Dec. 10, 1879.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1879.
Read the new ad of D. S. Rose in this number of the TRAVELER. Mr. James Benedict, we understand, will engage in the sale of agricultural implements.
AD: D. S. ROSE, Makes a Specialty of BUILDERS HARDWARE, STOVES & TINWARE.
Keeps constantly on hand a full stock of Blacksmiths Material, Wagon Wood Work, Wooden Ware, Rope, Glass, Putty, Guns, Pistols, Ammunition, Campers’ and Freighters’ Outfits, etc. Tin Roofing, Spouting, and Jobbing in tin, sheet iron, and copperware done to order by experienced workmen. Prices guaranteed at Bed Rock. Terms cash. D. S. ROSE.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 24, 1879.
Officers elected for the coming year of Cresswell Lodge, A. F. and A. M., No. 133, are:
W. M.: James Benedict; Senior Warden: James Ridenour; Junior Warden: Charles Parker; Senior Deacon: James I. Mitchell; Junior Deacon: Edwin R. Thompson; Treasurer: Harry P. Farrar; Secretary: Isaac H. Bonsall; Tyler: Cyrus M. Scott; Senior Stewart: Charles R. Sipes; Junior Stewart: James C. Topliff; Organist: William D. Mowry.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 24, 1879.
Bennett Chapter of Royal Arch Masons elected the following officers at their last regular meeting.
High Priest: S. P. Channell; King: A. A. Newman; Scribe: C. R. Mitchell; Treasurer: O. P. Houghton; Secretary: J. L. Huey; Captain of the Host: J. I. Mitchell; Principal Sojourner: Jas. Benedict. Royal Arch Captain: K. Smith; Master of 3rd Veil: Jas. Ridenour; Master of 2nd Veil: C. M. Scott; Master of 1st Veil: L. McLaughlin; Tyler: George Russell.
James Benedict: building storehouse on Central Avenue...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1880.
James Benedict is building a storehouse on Central Avenue for the Agricultural Implement trade.
Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict; Mr. and Mrs. William Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 4, 1880.
Wedding Bells.
GOOCH - HOUGHTON. Married on Wednesday evening, February 4th, at the First Presbyterian Church in Arkansas City, Mr. Wyatt Gooch and Miss Hattie Houghton, by Rev. McClung.
LIST OF PRESENTS.
Mr. and Mrs. W. Benedict, satin lined case with pickle fork, butter knife, and sugar shell.
Mr. and Mrs. J. Benedict, silver pickle castor.
James Benedict: starts agricultural implements and lumber business...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 18, 1880.
James Benedict announces to the public through the columns of the TRAVELER that he has just embarked in the agricultural and native lumber business. Mr. Benedict, being one of the early settlers of this part of Kansas, is a thorough, practical businessman and is closely identified with the growth and development of our city. We bespeak for him a liberal share of public patronage.
James Benedict has just received the largest and best stock of Agricultural Implements ever shipped to Arkansas City.
Ad: I have the KANSAS, FISH BROS. & HARRISON WAGONS, J. I. CASE, MOLINE, PERU CITY, AND BUFORD WALKING AND RIDING PLOWS AND CULTIVATORS, BARLOW AND AVERY CORN PLANTERS, OSBORN & ELWARD HARVESTERS AND BINDERS, etc. Agent for MINNESOTA CHIEF THRESHER.
I also handle Native Lumber and Shingles.
Wareroom and yard on Central Avenue rear of Benedict Building.
Arkansas City, Feb. 16, 1880.
Albert Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 24, 1880.
Little Albert Benedict celebrated his fifth birthday on Saturday afternoon last. There were a number of his little friends assembled at his father’s residence to do honor to the occasion. Mrs. Benedict had made ample provision for his guests in the way of all the delicacies of the season.
James Benedict: not running for Mayor...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 24, 1880.
I withdraw my name from any ticket as a candidate for Mayor at the coming election.
JAMES BENEDICT.
A. Walton and James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 31, 1880.
Mr. Leonard’s office, one door north of the Post Office, will in addition to Mr. Leonard be occupied by Messrs. A. Walton and James Benedict, and will assume the familiar cognomen of “The Democratic Headquarters.”
Benedict Building: corner of Summit Street and Central Avenue...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880.
A Bonanza
FOR THE PEOPLE.
W. M. BLAKENEY
has just opened a new and fine assortment of GROCERIES AND PROVISIONS in the Benedict building. Also a complete stock of FLOUR AND FEED.
Having obtained my goods during the recent cut in freights, I can give the best of bargains. Thanking my friends for past favors, I would respectfully solicit a continuance of the same. W. M. BLAKENEY.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880.
The council decided at their last meeting to rent the second story of the Benedict building for council rooms and the office of the Police Judge, paying therefore ten [? figure obscured ?] dollars per month.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880.
Mr. Blakeney having withdrawn from the firm of Mantor & Blakeney, does not intend leaving us, but will soon open up in the grocery business for himself. He has ordered an entirely fresh stock from Kansas City, and with the advantage of the recent cut in freights, he claims he can and will give good bargains. He can be found in the Benedict building, corner of Summit street and Central Avenue.
James Benedict, Councilman...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1880.
CITY COUNCIL.
The new City Council met and organized on Monday, April 19. Present: Dr. Chapel, Mayor; James Benedict, S. Matlack, M. Rexford, Dr. H. D. Kellogg, and Charles Parker, Councilmen.
The following committees were appointed.
Finance: J. Benedict, S. Matlack, and M. Rexford.
Public Improvements: Stacey Matlack, Dr. Kellogg, and Charles Parker.
Ordinances: Dr. Kellogg, S. Matlack, and J. Benedict.
Ways and Means: James Benedict, M. Rexford, and Dr. Kellogg.
Adjourned to meet Thursday, April 22.
Thursday, April 22. Council met as adjourned with the full Board in attendance. The raising of the license for saloons to $300 was the only business of importance transacted.
William Benedict: goes into the sewing machine business...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880.
Mr. C. P. Dandy, who for some time past has been in the sewing machine business in town, has sold out to Wm. Benedict, who will continue the business in the future. Mr. Dandy left for Kansas City on Monday last whither we hope success will attend him.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 12, 1880.
At the Democratic primary Thursday, May 6, the following persons were chosen as delegates and alternates to the Democratic county convention to be held in Winfield on the 15th of this month.
DELEGATES: Noah Kimmel, S. B. Adams, Amos Walton, Wm. Aumann, T. McIntire, P. F. Endicott, J. W. Hutchison, F. M. Peek, Jno. Halloway, Ed. Green.
ALTERNATES: A. P. Hutchison, Walter Dolby, J. E. Cox, Jas. Benedict, H. Godehard, Jas. Wilson, Wm. Bahruth, W. H. Brown, Jno. Weir, R. E. Fitzpatrick.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 30, 1880.
The following was handed to us for insertion last week, but was overlooked.
Arkansas City, June 19th, 1880.
Arkansas City Lodge No. 480, K. of H. The following is a correct list of officers elected June 15th, for one term ending December 31st, 1880: R. C. Haywood, Dictator; J. M. Ware, Vice Dictator; Gardner Mott, Assistant Dictator; M. Rexford, Reporter; James Benedict, Financial Reporter; H. P. Farrar, Treasurer; C. Dolsberry, Chaplain; J. R. Rogers, Guide; G. W. Ford, Guardian; T. L. Mantor, Sentinel. R. C. HAYWOOD, Vice Dictator.
M. REXFORD, Reporter.
James Benedict, councilman, lost on vote: voted for wood sidewalks...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 21, 1880.
A petition was circulated and signed by nearly every businessman and taxpayer of Arkansas City last week, praying that the mayor and council allow no more wooden sidewalks put down, but that stone shall be used instead. At the meeting last Friday the question came up as to whether Mr. Sipes should have the privilege of putting down wooden sidewalks on his lots on Summit street and Fourth avenue. It would seem that the council had granted him the privilege of using wood, on condition that it be done within a specified time, which time had gone by.
When put to a vote, there was a tie: Messrs. Benedict and Kellogg voting for wood, and Messrs. Matlack and Rexford for stone, which left it to the mayor, who decided in favor of stone. Though stone costs more, it is the right kind of a sidewalk to have, and should be used. The action of the mayor in this matter has given general satisfaction.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880.
Miss Etta Robinson and Miss Jennie Lowry, two of Winfield’s charming young ladies, have been spending several days in this city, guests of Miss May Benedict. A party was given in their honor last Friday night at the residence of Miss Benedict. They returned home yesterday.
William Benedict: social...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 17, 1880.
The Young Ladies’ Home Mission will hold a social at the residence of Mr. William Benedict on next Friday evening.
Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1880.
A surprise party was tendered Miss Carrie Benedict last Friday evening, in honor of her birthday.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1880.
ORDINANCE NO. 86.
Entitled an Ordinance calling an election for bonds.
BE it ordained by the Mayor and Councilmen of the city of Arkansas City.
SECTION 1. That an election of the qualified voters of the City of Arkansas City shall be held on Friday, the Fourteenth (14) day of January, A. D., 1881, at the office of James Benedict, on Summit Street, in said City, for the purpose of voting for or against instructing the City Council of said City of Arkansas City, in the State of Kansas, to issue the Bonds of said City of Arkansas City in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000), for the purpose of developing the water power of the Arkansas River, to supply power for the water works and other purposes.
SECTION 2. The manner of conducting said election shall be the same as that of general elections in this State.
SECTION 3. Said Bonds, shall, if voted, be issued in denominations of not less than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000) each; bearing Semi-Annual interest at the rate of Seven (7) per centum per annum, due and payable Twenty Years after the date of issue of said Bonds, or payable anytime at the option of said City of Arkansas City, after Ten Years from the date thereof.
SECTION 4. The form of the ballots used at said election shall be as follows, to-wit:
Those voting in favor of issuing said bonds shall have written or printed thereon the following words:
“For Issuing Bonds for Water Power,” and those voting against the same shall have written or printed thereon, “Against Issuing Bonds for Water Power.”
SECTION 5. That Ordinance Number 86 shall be in force on and after its publication once in the ARKANSAS VALLEY DEMOCRAT and the ARKANSAS CITY TRAVELER.
A. J. CHAPEL, Mayor.
Attest: I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.
May Benedict, Carrie Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1880.
CHRISTMAS TIME.
The names of the various committees having in charge the Christmas tree festivities to be held at the Presbyterian church, were handed in last week, but were unavoidably crowded out, and are presented in this issue, as follows.
Committee on Procuring Tree: Messrs. John Walker, M. B. Vawter, S. B. Reed, A. Gardner, R. Hutchison, C. L. Swarts.
Committee on Receiving Presents: Misses Clara Finley, Alma Dixon, Kate Hawkins, May Roland, May Benedict, Lizzie Guthrie, Mary Thomas, and Messrs. F. W. Farrar, C. M. Swarts, Dr. Vawter, Robert Maxwell.
Decorating Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Searing, Mr. and Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Haywood, Mrs. Shepard, Mrs. Cypher, Misses Mary Parker, Angie Mantor, Carrie Benedict, Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Linnie Peed, Flora Finley, Albertine Maxwell, Sadie Thomas, Linda Christian, Annie Hutchison, Mary Theaker, Emma and Susie Hunt, Ada Easterday; Messrs. E. G. Gray, W. D. Mowry, John Kroenert, J. D. Houston, George Howard, D. Cunningham, James Leonard, Will Peed, J. C. Topliff, Dick Chamberlain, Irving French.
Distributing Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Standley, Mr. and Mrs. Bonsall, Mr. and Mrs. Gooch, Mr. and Mrs. Sleeth, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mantor.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880.
On last Wednesday evening the following gentlemen were elected as officers of the Bennett Chapter No. 41, R. A. M., for the ensuing year: High Priest, C. R. Mitchell; King, James Benedict; Scribe, H. P. Farrar; Treasurer, O. P. Houghton; Secretary, James T. Shepard.
May Benedict...
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1881.
Miss May Benedict, one of Arkansas City’s belles, has been visiting friends and acquaintances in Winfield this week, the guest of Miss Jennie Lowry.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881.
ORDINANCE NO. 87.
Entitled an ordinance calling an election for bonds.
Be it ordained by the Mayor and Councilmen of the city of Arkansas City.
SECTION 1. That an election of the qualified voters of the city of Arkansas City, shall be held on Wednesday, the
Twenty-third day of February, A. D., 1881,
at the office of James Benedict, on Summit Street, in said city, for the purpose of voting for or against instructing the city Council of said city of Arkansas City, in the State of Kansas, to issue the bonds of said city of Arkansas City, in the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000), for the purpose of supplying the inhabitants of said city of Arkansas City, with water for domestic use, the extinguishment of fires, and for manufacturing and other purposes.
SECTION 2. The manner of conducting said election shall be the same as that of general elections in this State.
SECTION 3. Said bonds shall, if voted, be issued in denominations of not less than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000), each bearing Semi-annual interest, at the rate of seven (7) per centum, per annum, due and payable Twenty (20) Years after the date of issue of said bonds, or payable any time at the option of said city of Arkansas City, after Ten (10) Years from the date thereof.
SECTION 4. The form of the ballots used at said election shall be as follows, to-wit:
Those voting in favor of issuing said bonds shall have written or printed thereon the following words: “For issuing bonds for Water Works,” and those voting against issuing said bonds shall have written or printed thereon, “Against issuing bonds for Water Works.”
SECTION 5. That ordinance No. 87 shall be in force on and after its publication once in the ARKANSAS VALLEY DEMOCRAT and Arkansas City Traveler.
A. J. CHAPEL, Mayor.
Attest, I. H. BONSALL, City Clerk.
William Benedict, clerk, school board...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 9, 1881.
At the school meeting last Saturday, the vote on establishing a graded school in this city was almost unanimous. The new board elected are Messrs. A. C. Williams, director; William Benedict, clerk; and P. F. Endicott, treasurer—all thorough gentlemen and upright men. It is not the board we advocated, but if they will bring our school up to the standard desired and required, we will rest content.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 9, 1881.
In the list of Cowley County school teachers, we do not notice the name of Miss May Benedict. This young lady passed a very creditable examination, and received a “C” grade certificate, which she now has in her possession, and has already partially engaged to teach the Estus school, in Silverdale Township. [List was published in the Democrat.]
Wm. F. Benedict, Clerk, School board...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 9, 1881.
Notice is hereby given that the school board of District No. 2, Arkansas City, have designated Saturday, March 19, as a day for the assembling of all persons interested in ornamenting our school grounds by planting forest trees and such other shrubbery therein as may be suitable. WM. F. BENEDICT, Clerk.
W. F. Benedict becomes partner of Daniel Grant in grocery store...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 16, 1881.
W. F. Benedict and Daniel Grant are now running the grocery store formerly owned by McIntire on Summit street.
Wm. Benedict, clerk...
[ARKANSAS CITY TRAVELER ITEMS.]
Winfield Courier, March 17, 1881.
At the school meeting last Saturday, the vote on establishing a graded school in this city was almost unanimous. The new board elected are Messrs. A. C. Williams, director; Wm. Benedict, clerk; and P. F. Endicott, treasurer.
G. McIntires purchases Benedict property in west part of Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 6, 1881.
The Benedict property in the west part of town has been purchased by G. McIntire. We do not know whether he intends to rent or occupy the same.
James Benedict, councilman...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 6, 1881.
CITY ELECTION.
At the election held on last Monday, the following gentlemen were elected to hold the reins of municipal government for the coming year.
MAYOR: H. D. KELLOGG.
COUNCILMEN: James Benedict, J. B. Nipp, H. Godehard, O. S. Rarick, Wm. Speers.
POLICE JUDGE: I. H. Bonsall.
Wm. F. Benedict dissolves partnership with Grant and begins partnership with Kimmel in grocery store...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 6, 1881.
As will be seen by their “ad” in this issue, the firm of D. Grant & Co. has ceased to exist, and the business will be conducted by Messrs. Benedict and Kimmel. If you want standard goods, call upon these gentlemen.
AD: BENEDICT & KIMMEL. Dealers in fancy, domestic and staple GROCERIES, foreign and domestic FRUITS. FISH, MEATS, OYSTERS, ETC. Goods at lowest rates, and quality satisfactory. COUNTRY PRODUCE WANTED in exchange for goods.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 13, 1881.
James Benedict left yesterday to attend the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Honor, at Junction City, Kansas.
Wm. F. Benedict and Kimmel, groceries...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 20, 1881.
Messrs. Benedict & Kimmel have recently refitted their store, and are rapidly filling the same with a large supply of fresh groceries.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 20, 1881.
Messrs. James Benedict and I. H. Bonsall returned from Junction City last Saturday, where they had been in attendance at the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Honor.
James Benedict, councilman...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 20, 1881.
COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS.
At the meeting of the City Council, held in the Council room, on Monday, April 11th, the following gentlemen—Mayor and council-elect—were sworn in and a called meeting was immediately held, and the following committees appointed.
FINANCE COMMITTEE: James Benedict, J. B. Nipp, and W. H. Speers.
ORDINANCES: H. Godehard, James Benedict, and O. S. Rarick.
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS: O. S. Rarick, H. Godehard, and W. H. Speers.
WAYS AND MEANS: J. B. Nipp, James Benedict, and W. H. Speers.
WATER WORKS: W. H. Speers, O. S. Rarick, and J. B. Nipp.
On motion, adjourned to meet the first Monday in May, that being the regular meeting.
Benedict building...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 11, 1881.
TO STOCK AND CATTLE MEN.
The attention of all parties holding or interested in the stock interests of this section is called to the fact that a meeting of the prominent stockmen of this vicinity will be held on Saturday in the Benedict building, May 21, 1881, for the purpose of taking steps to protect themselves from the Texas drive (the coming season), by the location of a dead line, etc.
William F. Benedict and Kimmel...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 11, 1881.
New Groceries. A large and well selected stock of staple and fancy groceries, canned fruits, etc., just received at Benedict & Kimmel’s.
Wm. F. Benedict: ill...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 18, 1881.
We are pleased to see Mr. Wm. Benedict on the street again, in a fair way to recover from the ill effects of his recent sick spell.
Benedict building...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 18, 1881.
The Benedict building, on the corner of Summit and Central Avenue, is being thoroughly renovated, and will be fitted up and opened as a restaurant by Austin Bailey, at least so we are informed.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 25, 1881.
James Benedict is adding a porch to the other attractions of his town residence.
Benedict & Kimmel groceries; James Benedict, Agricultural Implements...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 25, 1881.
IT IS TOWN TALK
That for Groceries, first-class in quality, fair prices and variety of stock, McLaughlin Bros., Wyckoff & Son, S. J. Mantor, S. Matlack, Schiffbauer Bros., H. Godehard, Benedict & Kimmel, the renowned Diamond Front, and Ware & Blakeney’s cannot be beat anywhere in the southwest.
That Agricultural Implements in endless variety are on sale by G. W. Cunningham and Jas. Benedict.
Benedict corner building: now restaurant, A. Bailey, manager...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 1, 1881.
The restaurant in the Benedict corner building, under the management of A. Bailey, has opened up, and presents an attractive appearance.
James Benedict’s Agricultural Implement Depot...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 8, 1881.
WAGONS AND MOWERS. A car load of new wagons and mowers just received at Jas. Benedict’s Agricultural Implement Depot, in this city.
Carrie Benedict, eldest daughter of James and Anna Benedict,
married to John B. Walker. Couple moved to Monmouth, Illinois...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 6, 1881.
MARRIED.
WALKER - BENEDICT. At the residence of the bride’s parents, in this city, on Tuesday, July 5th, 1881, by Rev. S. B. Fleming, Mr. J. B. Walker of Monmouth, Illinois, and Miss Carrie, eldest daughter of James and Anna Benedict.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 6, 1881.
MARRIED. At the marriage of Mr. John B. Walker and Miss Carrie Benedict, yesterday, the newly married couple were made the recipients of many handsome and valuable presents from their many friends. By the departure of Mr. Walker, we lose one of our most enterprising young business men. The happy couple left on the afternoon train for their future home in Monmouth, Illinois.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 6, 1881.
Miss May Benedict completed a two month’s term of school in Silverdale district on Friday last, and we learn from one of the directors that universal satisfaction is felt with her work as a teacher. This was her first term of teaching school.
Both Mr. and Mrs. William and Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict attended; also in attendance, May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 14, 1881.
The farewell party, given by Miss Lillie Chamberlain at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schiffbauer, on Tuesday evening of last week, was one of the grandest events of the season. The full moon shown down like an immense headlight, viewing apparently, with the many Chinese lanterns that were pendant from the surrounding trees, making the scene resemble that of fairy land rather than reality.
After some time spent in promenading through the beautiful grove of fruit and forest trees, the party’s attention was directed to an immense platform prepared for the occasion, where Prof. Farringer, with the string band of Winfield, had taken position, and in a few moments it was filled with youth and beauty gliding through the graceful movements of the easy quadrille and mazy waltz. A gorgeous repast followed, then with spirits overjoyed, each of the party instituted all manner of fun and mirth, which had to be seen to be appreciated. Mr. Matlack produced a novel figure in the terpsichorean art that few ever witnessed before, while Cal. Swarts furnished the music. To say it was an enjoyable affair don’t half express it, and for one, we hope to have the pleasure of again meeting Miss Chamberlain and her many friends under like circumstances. The Cornet Band did their best and filled the night air with delightful sounds for which the hostess came forward, and in the most charming manner, expressed her appreciation and thanked them for their kindness.
The following ladies and gentlemen participated.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict.
May Benedict.
Miss May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 20, 1881.
Miss May Benedict, of Arkansas City, left Saturday on the afternoon train for Winfield, whither she goes to attend the Normal. During her stay at that place, she will be the guest of Miss Jennie Lowry, one of Winfield’s most attractive young ladies.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 24, 1881.
Car Load of wagons just received by J. Benedict.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 12, 1881.
Miss May Benedict and Miss Linda Christian are both teaching school east of the Walnut for the winter term. The former has charge of the Parker School and the latter the school in the Baldwin district.
W. F. Benedict and T. Kimmel dissolve partnership in grocery store...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 19, 1881.
DISSOLUTION NOTICE.
Notice is hereby given that the firm of Benedict & Kimmel, of this city, has been this day dissolved by mutual consent—Mr. Benedict retiring. The firm name will now be Kimmel & Moore. W. F. BENEDICT, T. KIMMEL. Arkansas City, Kans., October 12th, 1881.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 26, 1881. Editorial Page.
Cowley County Teachers.
There are ninety teachers in Cowley County holding certificates, of whom the following are teaching in the districts named.
ARKANSAS CITY.
Prof. C. T. Atkinson, city schools; Miss Jennie Peterson, city schools; Miss Susie L. Hunt, city schools; Miss Mary Theaker, city schools; Miss Rose Sample, District 80; Miss Linda Christian, district 33; Miss Jessie Sankey, district 51, Miss May Benedict, district 32; Miss Sadie Pickering, district 34, Miss H. M. Goodwin, district 93; W. M. Henderson, district 89; E. C. Brown, district 53; E. W. Coulson, district 44.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 30, 1881.
Building Association.
The above Association held a meeting last Friday evening and proceeded to organize forthwith into working shape. The results of the meeting being too voluminous for insertion in this body of paper, will be found embodied in the Supplement which is published this week, and to which we direct the attention of our readers.
Charter of THE ARKANSAS CITY BUILDING AND LOAN
ASSOCIATION OF ARKANSAS CITY, COWLEY COUNTY, KANSAS.
CHARTER.
FIRST. The name of the corporation shall be “The Arkansas City Building and Loan Association of Arkansas City, in Cowley County, Kansas.”
SECOND. The object of this association is the accumulation and loan of funds, the erection of buildings, and purchase and sale of real estate for the benefit of its members.
THIRD. The place where its business shall be transacted, shall be in Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas.
FOURTH. It shall exist until the monthly installments and interest, fines, and profits shall amount to one hundred dollars per share for each share of stock which shall be issued under its charter, and not to exceed twenty-one years.
FIFTH. The number of its directors shall be nine. Those elected for the first year shall be W. M. Sleeth, T. McIntire, H. D. Kellogg, I. H. Bonsall, J. T. Shepard, Wm. Kreamer, John Williams, Marshall Felton, and Jas. Benedict.
SIXTH. The amount of its capital stock shall be $50,000, to be divided into two series of two hundred and fifty shares of $100 each, to be paid in monthly installments of one dollar per share. The capital stock shall be issued in two series of twenty-five thousand dollars each, at such times as the association by its by-laws may provide and direct.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 7, 1881.
A hunting party led by J. Benedict and Jen Clark are tearing around in the Indian Territory.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 7, 1881.
The following named gentlemen were elected officers of Bennett Chapter No. 41, at their last regular meeting held in Masonic Lodge at Arkansas City, Wednesday, Nov. 30th.
High Priest: James Benedict.
King: James L. Huey.
Scribe: H. P. Farrar.
Treasurer: O. P. Houghton.
Secretary: W. D. Mowry.
Captain of the Host: C. M. Scott.
Principal Sojourner: James Ridenour.
Royal Arch Captain: Charles Hutchings.
Master of 3rd Vail: L. McLaughlin.
Master of 2nd Vail: J. R. Mitchell.
Master of 1st Vail: J. T. Shepard.
Tyler: George Russell.
Installation of officers takes place on the evening of St. John’s Day, Thursday, Dec. 27th, 1881, at the hall.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 4, 1882.
Mayor Kellogg, James Benedict, and T. McIntire, in company with Capt. Evins, started last Friday to visit the Government Snag Boat at Pawnee Agency.
May Benedict...
Cowley County Courant, January 5, 1882.
The much expected and long [part of article missing] of masquerade came off Friday evening and was a grand and perfect . There were at least one hundred on the floor and the rear seats of the hall were crowded with visitors jollier and happier crowd has never assembled in Winfield since the first country hoe-down in the “old log store.” The beauty and chivalry of the city were there, the lights were good, the music was excellent, everybody was good natured, the ushers were obliging, the door-keepers were careful, the floor managers were watchful and active, and the whole hall was conducted without clash or discord, and fully met the expectations of those who had anticipated a first-class ball, and a lively, happy time. There were many rich and beautiful costumes, and many ludicrous representations that kept the visitors continually interested and overflowing with laughter.
The general march commenced at 8:30 o’clock with 41 couples on the floor, and formed a brilliant procession striking in its comic effect. Beautiful and rich costumes glittering with gold and silver trimmings, dukes and kings, knights and ladies, Indians, negroes, harlequins, grotesque figures, all commingled in one strange and startling crowd.
At 11 o’clock the command was given to form in procession for a march, a grand circle was formed in the hall, the order to face in was given, followed by the order to unmask, and for the first time the parties knew each other, face to face. The ejaculations of surprise, the mutual exclamations of “Well, I declare! Is that you?” attested the excellent manner in which the disguises were gotten up.
At twelve o’clock the hall was deserted for supper, after which the dancing was resumed until the—well, that is—the wee—or rather—oh, what’s the difference?—”until the wee sma’ hours,” according to Hoyle, when everybody went home, rather broke up for the next day, but having had a glorious, happy time. The names and characters of those participating we give as follows as near as we could find out, with running comments.
Miss May Benedict, Maud Muller, rake and all, kept a sharp eye out, no doubt wished the Judge would come again.
Miss Jennie Lowry, highland lass, very neat and pretty costume.
May Benedict...
[TEACHERS DIRECTORY: 1881-1882.]
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
Teachers Directory 1881-82. ARKANSAS CITY. MONTHLY SALARY.
May Benedict, District 32: $25.00.
Benedict building: To be occupied by Geo. W. Miller as stove and tinware store...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 18, 1882.
Mr. Geo. W. Miller has opened up a tinware establishment in town and is prepared to do all kinds of work in his line. After the middle of February, he will occupy the Benedict building as a stove and tinware store, and a full stock for the same is already on the way. Mr. Miller was with D. S. Rose while in this city, and made many friends who will be glad to hear of his locating with us.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 8, 1882.
A. O. U. W.
A Lodge of A. O. U. W., consisting of forty members, was organized last week in this city by J. F. McMullen and B. M. Legg, of Winfield. The following officers were elected.
Past M. W.: James Benedict.
M. N.: Capt. O. S. Rarick.
Foreman: Archie Dunn.
Overseer: J. G. Sheldon.
Financier: W. M. Blakeney.
Receiver: W. E. Chenoweth.
Recorder: B. W. Matlack.
O. G.: H. R. Robinson.
I. G.: G. H. McIntire.
Guide: A. W. Patterson.
Trustees: A. A. Davis, J. C. Pickering, and C. R. Sipes.
Medical Examiners: H. D. Kellogg, J. T. Shepard.
Meets every Friday evening, at the Masonic Hall, until further arrangements.
W. F. Benedict: critically ill...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 22, 1882.
Mr. W. F. Benedict is still in a critical condition, but he is better than he was this time last week. We sincerely hope that convalescence has set in.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 8, 1882.
Mr. W. F. Benedict, we are pleased to state, still continues to improve.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 15, 1882.
The Real Estate firm of Smith & Teets have moved their office into the building occupied by James Benedict, on West Summit St., where they invite their patrons to call and see them.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 5, 1882.
Municipal Election.
At the election of the city officers held in this city last Monday, the following named gentlemen were elected.
For Mayor: A. A. Newman.
Councilmen: H. D. Kellogg, James Benedict, O. S. Rarick, V. M. Ayres, John Ware.
Police Judge, I. H. Bonsall.
The total number of votes cast was 200 and although several tickets were in the field, the main contest was on the Mayor and Police Judge. The following table shows the two principal tickets with the vote received by each candidate.
MAYOR. A. A. Newman, 146; H. D. Kellogg, 56.
COUNCILMEN. O. S. Rarick, 204; John M. Ware, 203; V. M. Ayres, 108; Jas. Benedict, 206; H. D. Kellogg, 141; Ira Barnett, 103; J. B. Nipp, 64.
POLICE JUDGE. I. H. Bonsall, 139; T. McIntire, 66.
James Benedict property being renovated by John B. Walker, son-in-law...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1882.
Mr. John B. Walker is renovating the James Benedict property, west of the Schoolhouse. This will make one of the neatest little homes in the city.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 19, 1882.
City Council.
The City Council met last Monday night to complete their organization, etc. Beyond some talk on the water work question and the appointing of committees, nothing was done. The following are the standing committees for the ensuing year.
FINANCE: Messrs. Benedict, Rarick, and Kellogg.
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS: Messrs. Kellogg, Ware, and Ayres.
ORDINANCES: Messrs. Rarick, Benedict, and Ware.
WAYS AND MEANS: Messrs. Ayres, Rarick, and Kellogg.
WATER WORKS: Messrs. Benedict, Kellogg, and Rarick.
May Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1882.
Miss Jennie Lorry, one of Winfield’s charming, young ladies, was in the city last week visiting her friend, Miss May Benedict.
Mae [not May] Benedict to be married to W. H. Curtis, of New York...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1882.
HYMENAL. Mr. W. H. Curtis, of New York, and Miss Mae Benedict, of this city, will be united in the bonds of matrimony at the residence of the bride’s parents at 8 o’clock this evening. So says the invitations.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1882.
W. H. Curtis, of Cambridge, New York, arrived in the city on Friday last, whither he comes for the purpose of—of—well, of visiting his friends. He will probably remain in our midst for several weeks.
Winfield Courier, June 15, 1882.
TO BE MARRIED. The marriage of Will H. Curtis and Miss Mae Benedict takes place this (Wednesday) evening, at the residence of the bride’s father, at Arkansas City. Miss Benedict is one of the brightest little ladies it has been our fortune to meet, and Curtis secures a prize. The happy couple have the COURIER’s best wishes.
Winfield Courier, June 15, 1882.
During the past two weeks the matrimonial market has been quite active. There have been fourteen licenses issued as follows.
MARRIAGE LICENSES:
Wm. H. Curtis and Mae Benedict.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 21, 1882.
Married.
Married at the residence of the bride’s parents, in this city, on June 14th, 1882, by Rev. S. B. Fleming, Mr. W. H. Curtis, of Cambridge, New York, and Miss Mae Benedict.
The ceremony took place in the evening, in the presence of invited friends, and the fair young bride and manly groom, as they took upon themselves the solemn vows “to love and cherish each other,” seemed an embodiment of all that was pure and lovely in life. The many friends of the bride most heartily wish her a happy voyage on life’s storm sea, and trust that many years of wedded bliss are in store for the happy couple. The presents were numerous and valuable, but the list is too long for insertion here.
The TRAVELER office was favored with cake and cigars, for which the boys return thanks coupled with the best of wishes for the future happiness of the bride and groom.
Maud Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 21, 1882.
Of the Intermediate Department of the Arkansas City Schools, the following pupils were neither absent nor tardy during the last month of school: Mattie Kirtley, Maud Benedict, Hattie Sipes, Alvin Clifton, Mattie Dixon, Clara Hoyt, Luna Ware, Morse Hutchison, Sherman Coulson.
May or Mae Benedict Curtis and husband, W. H. Curtis, to remain in Arkansas City for some time due to the illness of Mr. Benedict. This indicates that she was the daughter of William F. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1882.
Mr. W. H. Curtis and wife, who have been visiting Kansas City, St. Louis, and other principal cities in the East on their wedding tour, returned to this place on Saturday last. On account of Mr. Benedict’s poor health, they will remain here for some weeks, after which they will cast their future lot in Cambridge, New York.
James Benedict property: occupied by H. S. Davenport...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1882.
Mr. H. S. Davenport has fitted up and is now occupying as a residence the James Benedict property on north Sixth Street.
Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict: have another daughter...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 30, 1882.
BIRTH. Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict rejoice in the possession of a brand new daughter.
Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Benedict have visitor...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1882.
Miss Etta Robinson, of Winfield, spent Sunday in the city visiting Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Benedict, and returned to her home Monday.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 22, 1882.
Mr. O. C. R. Randall, attorney at law, late of Stockton, Rooks County, Kansas, has opened an office in this city for the practice of law. His office for the present is with James Benedict, on west Summit St., where all in need of legal advice will do well to call.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 6, 1882.
Mr. Samuel Hoyt has already up the main structure of a new residence adjoining that of Mr. Jas. Benedict.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 27, 1882.
Bennett Chapter No. 41, R. A. M., at its meeting last Tuesday evening, elected the following gentlemen as officers for the ensuing year.
ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO READ NAMES LET ALONE TITLES. GIVING NAMES ONLY. J. L. Huey, A. A. Newman, L. McLaughlin, O. P. Houghton, W. D. Mowry, Jas. Benedict, J. Ridenour, C. Hutchins, H. P. Farrar. W. M. Sleeth, J. T. Shepard, N. W. Kimmel.
Maude Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 14, 1883.
Our Schools. The following pupils of the First Intermediate Department were neither absent nor tardy, without an excuse during the past month: Dell Clifton, Howard Warren, Belle Johnson, Ella Hoyt, Ethel Clifton, Lulu Hamlin, Nettie Franey, Hattie Franey, Eddie Scott, Dean McIntire, Henry Mott, John Garris, Gertie Peterson, Rena Grubbs, Luna Ware, Helen Jordan.
The following pupils were imperfect in deportment during the past month: Charlie McConn, George McConn, Eddie Scott, Henry Mott, Porter Holloway, Perry Fullerlove, Schuyler Hand, Clara Delzell, Nettie Franey, Otis Endicott, Oscar Ball, Mary Kitch, Maud Benedict, Hattie Sipes, Rena Grubbs, Willie Kellogg, John Garris, Lulu Hamlin, George Snyder, Hattie Franey. ANNIE NORTON, Teacher.
Mr. Wm. Benedict very ill...
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1883.
Mr. Wm. Benedict is lying very low at his home in Arkansas City.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1883.
The Latest. The following extracts from the proceedings of the City Council of Arkansas City will explain to our readers the modus operandi of the transaction by which the city is relieved of the last of its Canal stock.
On February 26th, 1883, at a meeting of the Council, with A. A. Newman, Mayor, and Councilmen James Benedict, H. D. Kellogg, and John M. Ware in attendance, the following petition was presented.
To the Hon. A. A. Newman, Mayor of the City of Arkansas City. We the undersigned members of the Council of the said city most respectfully petition you to call a meeting of the Council to consider a proposition to aid the construction of a Flour Mill on the canal. Said meeting to be called for this evening at 7 o’clock p.m., Feb. 26th, 1883.
Signed: JAMES BENEDICT, H. D. KELLOGG, J. M. WARE.
The meeting was called in accordance with the above petition, and Mr. Hill made a proposition to have the city transfer $6,000 of the city’s claim against the Arkansas City Water Power Company to said company, in consideration of the company putting up a flouring mill on said canal. No action taken, and an adjournment to meet at 4 o’clock p.m., February 27th, 1883, was had.
Council met as adjourned. Present: A. A. Newman, Mayor, H. D. Kellogg, James Benedict, John M. Ware. V. M. Ayres, and O. S. Rarick, Councilmen. No action taken, and the Council adjourned to meet at 4 o’clock p.m. of March 1st, 1883.
COUNCIL ROOM, ARKANSAS CITY, MARCH 1ST, 1883.
A. A. Newman, Mayor, James Benedict, O. S. Rarick, and John M. Ware, councilmen, present. H. D. Kellogg and V. M. Ayres absent.
Motion by James Benedict that the Clerk be instructed to draw up an ordinance in compliance with a contract made this day with James Hill, President of the Arkansas City Water Power Co., to expend $2,000 in transmitting power from their canal to the pump at the spring now used by said city with water, and said company agree to furnish sufficient power at the wheel to be equal to ten horsepower at the pump, for the exclusive use of said city, free of expense, for the term of ninety-nine years, and in consideration of the above covenants and agreements being performed by said company, said city agrees to transfer and assign all its interest and title and right to its stock in said water power company. Seconded by O. S. Rarick.
Motion carried by unanimous vote of all present.
James Benedict: opens implement store in corner building on Summit street...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1883.
James Benedict has opened up an implement store in his corner building on Summit Street.
Mr. W. F. Benedict: near death...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1883.
It is with sorrow that we report that at this writing Mr. W. F. Benedict is apparently nearing the edge of the dark river in whose waters all things living must sooner or later sink ere they can reach the bright beyond.
Wm. F. Benedict dies...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1883.
Our next Sabbath morning, Easter, Rev. Fleming will preach a sermon appropriate to the occasion, and in the evening one appropriate to the death of Mr. Wm. Benedict.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1883.
Obituary: W. F. Benedict.
DIED, at his residence in this city, on Tuesday, March 13th, 1883, after a lingering illness, Mr. W. F. Benedict, in the sixty-first year of his age. The funeral took place the following day at the residence; the ceremonies being conducted by Rev. Fleming, after which the remains were conveyed to their last resting place followed by a long train of mourning relatives and friends. The deceased leaves a wife and two daughters to mourn a husband’s and a father’s love, and to them in this dark hour, is tendered the heartfelt sympathy of this community.
“There is no Death! What seems so is transition;
This life of mortal breath is but a suburb of the life elysian,
Whose portal we call Death.”
Arkansas City Traveler, March 28, 1883.
Miss Jenny Lowry, one of Winfield’s fairest daughters, is visiting Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 2, 1883.
Miss Etta Robinson spent several days of last week in the city visiting Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mae Benedict Curtis and son visit mother, Mrs. W. F. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1883.
Mrs. W. H. Curtis and son are expected shortly in the city upon a visit to the lady’s mother, Mrs. W. F. Benedict.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1883.
There was a lawn party at Mrs. W. F. Benedict’s residence last evening which was attended by most of the young people of our city who were hospitably entertained by their hostess and of course enjoyed themselves immensely.
Mrs. W. F. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.
Miss Robinson, of Winfield, paid Mrs. Benedict a visit last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1883.
Mr. Ed. Farringer advertises in this issue to give music lessons. Read what he says.
MUSIC LESSONS. Persons wishing instruction on the Piano, Organ, Violin, or Cornet will please leave word at Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s, or address Ed. E. Farringer, Arkansas City.
Mae Benedict Curtis and child visit her mother, Mrs. W. F. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 5, 1883.
Mrs. May Curtis and infant child are expected in the city tomorrow upon a visit to her mother, Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
James Benedict: erecting addition to rear of Conway Bros.’ store...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 24, 1883.
James Benedict is putting up an addition to the rear of Conway Bros.’ store.
James Benedict: new partner, W. R. Owen, dealers in farming implements, etc.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 7, 1883.
Our old friend, Jas. Benedict, has taken into partnership Mr. W. R. Owen, and by reference to our advertising columns, it will be seen that these gentlemen are inviting the attention of the public to their general stock of farm implements. They are gentlemen of experience and will make their aim to keep in stock everything needed by the farming community.
AD: JAS. BENEDICT / W. R. OWEN. BENEDICT & OWEN, -DEALERS IN- FARMING IMPLEMENTS, Farm and Spring Wagons, etc. We handle only the best goods and sell at living prices. Give us a call. Arkansas City, Kas.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 5, 1883.
Masonic.
The following gentlemen were elected as officers for the ensuing year at the last regular meeting of Crescent Lodge A. F. and A. M.: James Ridenour, W. M.; Charles Hutchins, S. W.; Cal Dean, J. W.; H. P. Farrar, Treasurer; J. C. Topliff, Secretary; James Benedict, Tyler.
Benedict & Owen move to old stand: corner building on West Summit & Central Avenue, handling wagons and agricultural implements...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1884.
Attention is called to the new “ad” of Messrs. Benedict & Owen in this week’s paper. These gentlemen now occupy the corner building on West Summit Street and Central Avenue with a full stock of wagons and agricultural implements.
AD. BENEDICT & OWEN have removed to the old stand, corner of Summit Street and Central Avenue. We handle FARM AND SPRING WAGONS, -ALL KINDS -OF- FARM MACHINERY, PUMPS, WINDMILLS, ETC.
Arkansas City Republican, February 16, 1884.
AD. BENEDICT & OWEN, FARM AND SPRING WAGONS.
All kinds of FARM MACHINERY Pumps, Windmills, Etc.
Arkansas City Republican, February 16, 1884.
AD. FARMERS, READ THIS.
Having secured the agency for the best windmill in the market, I am now prepared to put in PUMPS, AND WINDMILLS, with the guarantee of No Work, No Pay.
Geared Mills for feed grinding and shelling a specialty.
JOSHUA MOORE.
WITH BENEDICT AND OWEN.
Arkansas City Republican, March 1, 1884.
Benedict & Owen have changed their ad. Be sure and read it.
AD. BENEDICT & OWEN, [ILLUSTRATION OF CALDWELL WAGON.]
Would announce to the Public that they are prepared to MEET ALL COMPETITION FOR FARM MACHINERY, FARM AND SPRING WAGONS, BUGGIES, PUMPS, WINDMILLS, etc.
OUR MOTTO: The best goods, the lowest prices, and a SQUARE DEAL for every man.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Railroad Meeting.
A railroad meeting was called on last Monday, March 3, at I. H. Bonsall’s office, for the purpose of considering the narrow gauge proposition now before the people and taking steps to insure its defeat. Mr. T. McIntire was made chairman and I. H. Bonsall secretary. A resolution to the effect that the interests of Cowley County demanded the defeat of this proposition was read and unanimously endorsed, and the following committee was appointed to raise funds to defray the expenses of canvassing the county: A. A. Newman, W. M. Sleeth, James Benedict, T. H. McLaughlin, and J. L. Huey. Messrs. A. A. Wiley, J. B. Nipp, A. J. Chapel, O. S. Rarick, T. H. McLaughlin, and N. T. Snyder were appointed as committee on arrangements with power to select sub-committees, to take whatever steps may be deemed necessary to accomplish the object of the meeting. The meeting then adjourned to next Saturday at 2 p.m. at Highland Hall, when we hope to see a general turn out of businessmen and farmers.
Arkansas City Republican, March 8, 1884.
Railroad Meeting.
A railroad meeting was called last Monday, March 3, to take measures for defeating the proposition to vote county bonds for the narrow gauge railroad next Tuesday. A motion was made that the voters of Creswell Township vote against said proposition, and was carried unanimously. On motion, the following committees were appointed by the chair:
A. A. Newman, Wm. M. Sleeth, Jas. Benedict, T. H. McLaughlin, and Jas. L. Huey were appointed as a committee to raise funds to pay the expenses of canvassing the county.
A. A. Wiley, J. B. Nipp, A. J. Chapel, O. S. Rarick, T. H. McLaughlin, and N. T. Snyder were appointed a committee on arrangements, with power to select sub-committees to canvass and make any arrangements necessary to accomplish the object of the meeting.
The meeting then adjourned to convene today, at 2 p.m., at Highland Hall, when we hope to see a good crowd assembled.
Mae and Wm. Curtis return to New York after visiting her mother, Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, March 29, 1884.
Mr. Wm. Curtis and wife expect to return to New York on Monday. They have been visiting Mrs. Curtis’ mother, Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
James Benedict visited by son-in-law and daughter, now living at Pawnee Agency...
Arkansas City Republican, April 5, 1884.
John Walker and wife are up from Pawnee Agency, visiting the family of James Benedict.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
[REQUEST SENT TO A. J. PYBURN TO RUN FOR MAYOR.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 5, 1884.
Hon. A. J. Pyburn: Though aware of your repeated refusal to become a candidate for any office; and the determination to devote your time to your profession, and although cognizant of the fact that an election and acceptance would involve to a certain extent the sacrifice of personal interests, yet we request and urge that you permit your name to be used in nomination for the position of mayor of Arkansas City, feeling as we do, that in your election, you will represent the whole people regardless of politics, issues, or business, and have only at heart the best interests of the place, and welfare of the citizens.
Both James Benedict and his partner, W. R. Owen, signed request.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1884.
There will be a social Friday evening, April 11, at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict. All are invited to come and have a good time. This is an Easter entertainment, and we promise you something new. Come and bring your friends with you. All are welcome.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
We call attention to the “ad” of Benedict & Owen, implement dealers, in this issue.
AD. WAGONS, CULTIVATORS, ESTERLY BINDERS, DENNETT BINDERS, And all kinds of FARMING IMPLEMENTS. BENEDICT & OWEN.
James Benedict, street commissioner...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
The new city council have appointed the following gentlemen to official positions for the ensuing year. City treasurer, C. R. Sipes; city clerk, James Benedict; street commissioner, E. C. Stroup; marshal, Wm. Gray; water works commissioner, Ed. Malone.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Republican, April 19, 1884.
FARMERS, READ THIS! Having secured the agency for the best windmill in the market, I am now prepared to put in PUMPS, AND WINDMILLS, with the guarantee of NO WORK, NO PAY. Geared Mills for feed grinding and shelling a specialty.
JOSHUA MOORE. With Benedict and Owen.
James Benedict...
[RAILROAD MEETING CONCERNING KANSAS CITY & SOUTHWESTERN.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 19, 1884.
A large number of the citizens of this township assembled at Highland Hall in this city last Tuesday evening to take action upon the proposition of the directors of the Kansas City and Southwestern railroad to run their road to this city, upon Creswell Township’s voting bonds for $35,000 of the capital stock of said road. Judge T. McIntire was elected chairman, and S. W. Duncan, secretary. Upon being requested James Hill stated the object of the meeting, and, with convincing arguments, he dwelt at length upon the advantages of the road to the township and the city. James N. Young, president of the railroad company, then read the proposition, and a motion was made to adopt it, upon which considerable argument was produced. Pending the discussion, C. R. Sipes offered as a substitute for the motion that Judge A. J. Pyburn, T. H. McLaughlin, Dr. H. D. Kellogg, M. N. Sinnott, G. W. Cunningham, and James Benedict be appointed a committee to confer with the directors of the railroad present, and examine the proposition submitted and report whether it was suitable to the wants of the township, and just, and legally binding. The substitute was adopted and the committee, after making some small changes in the proposition, reported favorably, whereupon the house on motion adopted the report of the committee, and passed the motion to adopt the proposition as amended by the committee.
On motion of James Hill the chair appointed T. H. McLaughlin, G. W. Cunningham, and J. L. Huey a committee to have the petitions printed and circulated for signers. The meeting then adjourned.
James Benedict, city clerk...
[CITY COUNCIL.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 19, 1884.
City Council Proceedings.
Council met in adjourned session at 7:30 p.m., April 14, 1884. Present: F. P. Schiffbauer, mayor; O. S. Rarick, C. G. Thompson, Theo. Fairclo, F. C. Leach, and A. A. Davis, Councilmen.
On motion F. C. Leach was chosen president of the council.
The following appointments were made and confirmed: W. J. Gray, city marshal; Ed. Malone, commissioner of water works; E. C. Stroup, street commissioner, and James Benedict, city clerk.
The mayor appointed the following committees. On finance: Rarick, Leach, and Thompson. On printing: Leach, Fairclo, and Rarick. On ways and means: Thompson, Fairclo, and Rarick. On ordinance: Rarick, Fairclo and Leach. On public improvements: Thompson, Davis, and Leach. On water works: Fairclo, Davis, and Thompson. On sanitary: Davis, Rarick, and Fairclo.
Motion made to require city treasurer and clerk to give bond of $2,000 each. Carried.
On motion the council adjourned to meet next Monday evening at 7:30 o’clock, April 21, 1884. F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Attest: I. H. BONSALL, Clerk.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 23, 1884.
Ad. When you get one of those light draft Easterly Binders of Benedict & Owen, you get the best—and you can get the repairs, too.
James Benedict, city clerk...
[CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 10, 1884.
COUNCIL CHAMBER, ARKANSAS CITY, May 2, 1884.
Present, F. P. Schiffbauer, mayor; C. G. Thompson, F. C. Leach, T. Fairclo, A. A. Davis, and O. S. Rarick, councilmen.
The following bills were allowed.
[EXTREMELY SMALL PRINT...COULD NOT READ MONEY AMOUNTS.]
W. Ward, for hauling.
Mowry & Sollitt, sundries.
P. Wyckoff, rent for Council room.
Pitts Ellis, cost for engine at water works.
W. H. Speers, rent for spring.
J. W. Canfield, repair of water tank.
Bill of J. Vawter of $1.50 for services to prisoner at city jail was rejected.
Received the report of H. P. Farrar, ex-treasurer, showing balance due him from city on general fund account of $51.16. Balance due the city on sinking fund account of $889.97. Moved that a committee be appointed to examine the books of treasurer and clerk, and make a report. Motion carried. The mayor appointed the finance committee to audit said books.
Petition of the owners on east side of block 79 presented and on motion a sidewalk was ordered built and put down to established grade. Time granted 90 days.
Petition to prohibit the use of barb wire fence within the city limits presented. Moved that the city attorney be instructed to draft ordinance and present same to city council, prohibiting the use of barbed wire for fencing within the city limits. Carried.
The mayor appointed C. L. Swarts, city attorney, for the ensuing year at a salary of $100 per annum. Appointment confirmed.
Archie Dunn was appointed street commissioner by the mayor instead of E. C. Stroup. Appointment confirmed.
The city marshal was instructed to notify parties to make private crossings where they desired to cross sidewalks to and from their places of business with teams.
Ordinance committee instructed to draft an ordinance amending ordinance No. 121, and report same at next meeting.
On motion adjourned to meet next Thursday evening at 7:30 o’clock, p.m.
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Attest: JAS. BENEDICT, Clerk.
Benedict [?] dwelling, on corner of Central Avenue...
Arkansas City Republican, May 10, 1884.
Chas. Bryant, the genial host of the Central Avenue Hotel, is erecting a new residence on Central Avenue, east of Benedict’s dwelling, on the corner. It will be a two story and basement, 28 feet square, hip roof, and will cost about $1,200.
Mrs. William Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1884.
Misses Etta Robinson and Jennie Lowry, of Winfield, have been spending a few days in the city, visiting with Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Arkansas City Republican, May 17, 1884.
Misses Etta Robinson and Jennie Lowry, of Winfield, spent several days of this week in this city. They were the guests of Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mrs. James Benedict departs on visit to family and friends in Dayton, Ohio...
Arkansas City Republican, June 7, 1884.
Mrs. Jas. Benedict left Wednesday for Dayton, Ohio, where she will remain awhile visiting friends and relatives.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Republican, June 21, 1884.
AD. BENEDICT & OWEN, Would announce to the public that they are prepared to meet all competition in FARM MACHINERY, FARM & SPRING WAGONS, BUGGIES, PUMPS, WINDMILLS, ETC. [ILLUSTRATION OF SPRING WAGON, I BELIEVE IS IN THE MIDDLE OF AD.]
OUR MOTTO: The best Goods, The Lowest Prices, and a Square Deal for Every man.
Arkansas City Republican, June 28, 1884.
Benedict & Owen sold this week a $2,000 steam thresher to Van Scoyk & Wilson.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 9, 1884.
Council Proceedings.
A Full Statement of the City’s Condition.
The council met in regular session last Monday night, with every councilman present.
After reading the minutes of the last meeting, bills to the amount of $119.81 were presented and allowed.
Ordered that an order for $100 be drawn on the treasurer, payable to H. P. Farrar, the same being the amount appropriated for repairing the road south of town.
The reports of James Benedict, C. R. Sipes, Jas. Moore, and W. D. Kreamer were received and placed on file.
Costs in the cases of G. W. Cunningham ($2.25) and W. L. Krebs ($3.40) were ordered paid.
Moved that finance committee be instructed to meet treasurer and check up books and destroy all paid up scrip.
Moved that the committee on water works be instructed to look up and report at next meeting all parties owing for water rent.
The council then adjourned to meet Friday night.
Following are the reports of the city clerk, treasurer, police judge, and street commissioner.
CANNOT READ REPORT VERY WELL...RECAP ONLY:
CITY CLERK’S REPORT. Received from Blubaugh license, Godfrey & Mowry, Reeves, street license, Police Judge, W. D. Kreamer, room rent, Police court, Occupation tax license, Dog tax...TOTAL: $2,076.41
DISBURSEMENTS. Scrip issued to Ward Harnley, Mowry & Sollitt, merchandise, Speers, water rent, P. Ellis, coal, P. Wyckoff, rent, J. W. Canfield, repairing tank, W. Gray, marshal, E. Malone, water commissioner, Stroup, labor, Clark & Coombs, printing, Corzine & Richards, printing, Chicago Lumber Co., lumber, E. Malone, hardware, J. Moore, labor, Benedict & Owen, merchandise, J. J. Breene, police, D. Hawkins, sidewalk, R. Cowles, coal, J. Stedman, dog checks, G. W. White, police, E. W. Finch, boarding prisoners, J. Kreamer, police, H. Adams, police, F. Decker, water commissioner...TOTAL: $517.99
SUMMARY.
Amount received: $2,076.41
Amount disbursed: $517.99
Less scrip unpaid $15.75
Old scrip and int. Redeemed: $490.45
In hands of clerk: $10.00
License issued and not paid: $67.00
TOTAL: $1,069.69
TREASURER’S REPORT RECAP:
Total Receipts: $1,980.41
Disbursements: $ 992.69
BALANCE IN TREASURY: $1,006.72
C. R. SIPES, TREASURER.
THERE WAS ALSO A POLICE COURT REPORT, MADE OUT BY W. D. KREAMER, POLICE JUDGE.
The street commissioner reports that he has had 110 days’ work put on the streets; cash received for poll tax, $62.25; cash paid for labor, $60.00, leaving balance of $2.25.
Maude Benedict, daughter of Mrs. Wm. Benedict, visits friends in Winfield...
Winfield Courier, July 10, 1884.
Miss Maude Benedict, the bright little daughter of Mrs. Wm. Benedict of Arkansas City, has been spending a few days with her young friends in this city.
Arkansas City Republican, July 12, 1884.
Courier Clippings.
Miss Maude Benedict, the bright little daughter of Mrs. Wm. Benedict of Arkansas City, has been spending a few days with her young friends in this city.
Mrs. W. F. Benedict: guests from Winfield...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 23, 1884.
Judge Torrance, of Winfield, favored us with a short call Saturday last. The gentleman, accompanied by Mrs. Torrance and her sister, Miss Lowry, and his sister, Mrs. Wallace, of Hannibal, Missouri, had been for a drive to the Indian Territory, in the course of which they visited the Chilocco school. While in our city the party were the guests of Mrs. W. F. Benedict.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 26, 1884.
AD. What some of our citizens say about the THOMPSON MOWER, Sold by Benedict & Owen, Arkansas City, Kansas.
John Annis, of Arkansas City, Kansas. Cut 12 acres a day with a span of little ponies weighing 800 pounds each, in grass that would go two tons per acre. Never raised a sweat. Cuts lariat pins or grass with equal facility.
A. Spray. Have cut 400 acres. Cuts buffalo grass, swamp grass, weeds, sowed corn, the latter so large that it fell on my head as I passed along. The best machine made. [Mr. Spray is now with G. W. Cunningham, of this city.]
John W. Brown. Have cut 300 acres. Never run a machine so easily and with so little expense.
J. Monroe Felton. Have cut 200 acres without one cent expense. Cuts where others fail.
All from Agricultural West.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
Our implement men, Benedict & Owen, have been doing a rushing business in buggies the past week. Vehicles sold by them make an elegant display on our streets these pleasant evenings.
Maude Benedict, daughter of Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
Miss Maudie Benedict was the recipient of a serenade from her young friends in Prof. Farringer’s Winfield band, when in our city last Friday.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
Council Proceedings.
Council met in regular session last Monday, August 4. Present: F. P. Schiffbauer, mayor; C. G. Thompson, T. Fairclo, and A. A. Davis.
Bills to the amount of $303.87 were presented and allowed, and bill of Frank Wallace for $8.10 was referred.
C. G. Thompson was authorized to expend $15 for enlarging the windows in the calaboose, and the mayor was authorized to purchase two balls and chains for the use of prisoners.
Adjourned to Monday night, August 11.
The following reports were received and placed on file.
CITY CLERK’S REPORT—RECEIPTS. TOTAL: 42,708.40
Balance on hand at last report: $1,004.72
Received from W. D. Kreamer: 8.00
From county treasurer (taxes): 370.00
From Co. Treasurer bond fund: 480.00
From sinking fund: 1.35
From sidewalk fund: 495.71
Collection of water rent: 225.35
From licenses: 80.27
Licenses issued last month: 35.00
DISBURSEMENTS. TOTAL: $1,227.90
Scrip Issued and not paid: $12.00
Dry tax issued and not paid: $3.00
[DRY TAX??? COULD THEY HAVE MEANT DOG TAX??]
JAMES BENEDICT, Clerk.
CITY TREASURER’S REPORT. TOTAL: $2,227.55
To balance report of July 8: $1,006.72
Cash received from tax fund: $370.00
From sidewalk fund: $495.71
Occupation tax and water rent: $485.12
Old scrip redeemed: $882.35
New scrip redeemed: 345.61
Balance: $999.59
Cash paid by Co. Treasurer (balance forwarded) $480.00
Same sinking fund: $1.35
BALANCE IN MY HANDS: $1,480.94
C. R. SIPES, Treasurer.
COLLECTION OF WATER RENTS.
I herewith submit my report of the amount of water tax collected up to August 2, 1884.
Chicago Lumber Co. $5.00
George Hasie $10.00
E. D. Eddy $3.75
Fairclo Brothers $20.00
Ed. Grady $3.33
George Childers $5.00
H. Godehard $1.25
O. Stevenson $5.00
Stedman Bros. $4.40
E. F. Shindel $5.00
J. B. Nipp $5.00
L. H. Braden $20.00
William Gibby $5.00
Samuel Burress $2.20
Charles Hutchins $2.20
W. E. Gooch $5.00
H. D. Kellogg $2.15
J. A. McIntire $20.00
Pentecost & Lyman $14.00
A. W. Patterson $10.00
Stage company $5.00
F. A. Chambers $5.00
Charles Bryant $6.25
John Love $5.00
J. H. Hilliard $20.00
Hoskins & Neal $5.00
Thompson & Woodin $20.00
A. B. DeBruce $4.75
O. P. Houghton $11.00
W. G. Miller $6.75
TOTAL: $253.18
Ten percent for collection: $25.31
BALANCE: $227,85
Paid City Treasurer: 225.85
BALANCE (ON HAND): $2.47
The police judge reports $51 as the amount of fines assessed during last month, and $46.50 as amount collected.
The special census taker, B. C. Lindsay, reports the population of Arkansas City at 3,004.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Republican, August 9, 1884.
Benedict & Owen have enlarged the building formerly used by the Wolfe Brothers for a carpenter shop, and will use it as a store-room for buggies.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1884.
Ad. Benedict & Owen can suit anybody in want of a good BUGGY or SPRING WAGON.
Ad. Benedict & Owen don’t mean to be behind the times. They have just received a full car load of the celebrated Wilmington Buggies and Waterloo Spring Wagons.
James Benedict: promoted by Democrats for Representative...
Arkansas City Republican, August 30, 1884.
Our Democratic friends are working up a boom for our popular implement merchant, Jas. Benedict, for Representative.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen
Arkansas City Traveler, September 3, 1884.
Read Benedict & Owen’s specials this week. They are of special interest to farmers.
Ad. SHOE PRESS DRILLS, BAKER DRILLS, GUNDLACK PRESS DRILLS, ONE HORSE DRILLS, AT BENEDICT & OWEN’S.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict visits father in Lawrence...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 3, 1884.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict is in Lawrence on a visit to her father, whom she has not seen for fourteen years.
James Benedict returns from Kansas City with his ill wife...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 3, 1884.
Mr. James Benedict, who was summoned to Kansas City last Friday on account of the sickness of his wife, returned Monday with the lady. Mrs. Benedict is still quite ill, though much improved.
Arkansas City Republican, September 6, 1884.
Jas. Benedict and wife arrived home Monday from Kansas City. Mrs. Benedict is somewhat improved in health.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict, sister of Amos Walton: visiting their father in Lawrence...
Arkansas City Republican, September 6, 1884.
Amos Walton, and his sister, Mrs. Wm. Benedict, left Monday afternoon for Lawrence, where they will visit their father and attend the fair.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, September 13, 1884.
Council Proceedings.
At the last regular council meeting, Mayor Schiffbauer, C. G. Thompson, T. Fairclo, A. A. Davis, councilmen, were present. The following bills were allowed and ordered paid.
[COULD NOT READ AMOUNTS/COULD HARDLY READ PRESENTERS.]
Clark & Atkinson, printing.
Geo. O. Crain, registration books.
Samuel Clark, repairing pump.
Rail Road Co., freight on street grader.
Corrected petition to G. W. Glick, read, approved, and duly signed and clerk ordered to forward same to the governor for his action and approval.
On motion, grade established on block in front of Commercial building, adopted as the grade for blocks 69, 70, 81, and 82 fronting on Summit street. Said grade refers to Stillweek [?] grade.
Street commissioner was instructed to notify parties on North Summit street to build their sidewalks at once or city would have the same done, at the expense of the lot owners. This only refers to lots 5, 12, 13, and 14 in block 79.
On motion the owner of the lot on North Summit street in block 67 was also ordered to take up the plank sidewalk and replace same with stone.
On motion, water commissioner was ordered to stop the water supply of T. H. & L. McLaughlin wherever used by them from the city water works, owing to their refusal to pay for same.
On motion, mayor appointed A. D. Johnson special police, without charge to the city.
On motion, adjourned to meet Monday, Sept. 15th, 1884. F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Attest: JAS. BENEDICT, City Clerk.
B. Walton, brother of Amos Walton and Mrs. Wm. Benedict, visits...
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
B. Walton, of Lawrence, is here visiting relatives. He is a brother of Amos Walton and Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1884.
Go to the social tonight at Mrs. Benedict’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 1, 1884.
There will be a social given at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict this evening. A cordial invitation is given to all to come and participate in the enjoyments. Refreshments will be served throughout the evening.
Arkansas City Republican, October 4, 1884.
The Presbyterian social at the residence of Mrs. William Benedict last Wednesday evening was a social gathering in reality as well as in name. Mrs. Benedict is an excellent hostess, as all will say if fortune favors them with an opportunity of partaking of her hospitality.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 8, 1884.
Following is a complete list of stockholders in the Arkansas City Woolen Manufacturing Company, mention of which was made last week.
T. H. McLaughlin, Arkansas City Bank, Frank J. Hess, Wm. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, Landes, Beall & Co., Sanborn & Gordon, H. Endicott, A. Walton, J. A. McIntyre, I. D. Harkleroad, W. E. Gooch, F. W. Farrar, A. A. Wiley, R. A. Houghton, T. J. Gilbert, A. Campbell, G. W. Cunningham, Schiffbauer Bros., A. [?] Andrews [Not sure of first initial.], Fitch & Barron, S. Matlack, J. B. Nipp, A. A. Newman, James Hill, E. H. Parker, T. D. Richardson, Benedict & Owen, D. Warren, J. H. Sherburne, J. N. T. Gooch, Uriah Spray, Theo Fairclo, H. D. Kellogg, Ira Barnett, A. J. Chapel, S. F. George, G. W. Miller, P. F. Endicott, Jamison Vawter, Kimmel & Moore, N. C. Hinkley, L. McLaughlin.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, October 11, 1884.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict was over to Geuda Springs Sunday visiting Mrs. H. O. Meigs.
Arkansas City Republican, October 11, 1884.
One of the most liberal supporters of the REPUBLICAN is Mrs. Wm. Benedict. To her, four of her friends abroad are indebted weekly for fifty-two weeks of each year for a nice newsy letter in the shape of the REPUBLICAN.
Arkansas City Republican, October 11, 1884.
A jolly part of eleven, consisting of Mrs. C. R. Sipes, Miss May Hendricks, Mrs. Frank Beall, Mrs. Wm. Benedict, Mrs. E. Wineder, the little Misses Hattie Sipes and Cora Wineder, Henry Mowry, T. Jerome, J. H. Hilliard, and dog, Carlo, visited the territory Friday and Saturday on a pleasure trip. Mrs. Sipes says she killed an innumerable number of prairie chickens. She must indeed be a mighty nimrod.
James Benedict on coroner’s jury...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 5, 1884.
A Sad Accident.
DIED. Last Thursday night a most deplorable accident occurred near the Santa Fe depot in this city, by which a bright young life was frightfully and suddenly ended. Little Phillip A. Huff, adopted son of Mr. and Mrs. Archie Dunn, about 9 years of age, was playing with several of his companions a game known as “Blank Lilo,” [?] a game requiring running and hiding. Phillip, in running from his playmates, ran under a freight car, coming out on the other side. The boys called to him to come back, as they were going home for the night, it being about 9 o’clock. No answer coming from Phillip, his comrades supposed he had gone up about the depot, and they came home, without him. An hour later his little body was found lying across a tie of the tracks, completely severed just below the chest. He had evidently crawled back under a car, with the purpose of watching the movements of the other boys, not knowing that an engine was attached to the train, or, boy like, thinking he could scramble out in time to escape all danger. But the result proves on what a slender thread hangs human life, for the train started suddenly, and instead of going forward, it backed, the two front wheels passing over the unfortunate boy’s body, mercilessly crushing him to instant death. When found his little right arm was lying, mangled, across his breast, as though self-preservation had asserted itself even in his youthful mind and in the short time in which he had to act, causing him to attempt to ward off the heavy car. As soon as the accident was made known, friends removed the body to Pearson’s undertaking rooms, where it was prepared for the burial the next day. The following morning a coroner’s jury was impaneled, consisting of J. W. Hutchison, Jas. Benedict, Ed. G. Gray, P. Wyckoff, T. V. McConn, and Charles Bryant, who rendered a verdict in accordance with the above facts.
This sad death should carry a lesson to all parents whose children are in the habit of playing around the depot at night, during the switching of the freight train. No blame can be attached to railroad authorities or employees, for the children become familiar with danger and are utterly oblivious of its presence. Parents should see to it that their children do not make a practice of playing about the cars, and fewer accidents will happen. The men at the depot have reportedly notified boys to keep away, and have even threatened their arrest, but it is at home that the work is to be done.
The funeral services of the deceased were held Friday morning at the residence of Mr. Dunn, after which the friends proceeded to Parker Cemetery, east of the Walnut River, where the body was laid to rest.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
Thursday evening a social gathering was held at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
Miss Jennie Lowry, of Winfield, is visiting Mrs. Wm. Benedict this week.
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
Mr. Chas. Harter, and Mr. Arthur Bangs, of Winfield, and Mrs. A. Perkins, who is visiting in Winfield, from Australia, were guests of Mrs. Wm. Benedict Wednesday.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
The next regular meeting of Creswell Lodge of A. F. & A. M. will be on the evening of Saturday, December 6th, at which time officers will be elected for the ensuing year. The installation of officers elected will be on Dec. 20. The present officers of the lodge are:
James Ridenour, W. M.
Charles Hutchins, Sen. Warden.
Calvin Dean, Jr. Warden.
J. C. Topliff, Secretary.
H. P. Farrar, Treasurer.
James Benedict, Tyler.
H. Endicott, Senior Stewart.
J. K. Rogers, Junior Stewart.
D. L. Means purchases Benedict & Owen’s stock of implements...
Arkansas City Republican, December 6, 1884.
Wednesday Benedict & Owens sold their implement house to D. L. Means. Mr. Means will continue in the same business at the former firm’s old stand. In this week’s issue of the REPUBLICAN will be found Mr. Mean’s initiatory. To the retiring firm we extend the hand of regret, and to the incoming, the hand of welcome.
AD. Stop to Examine Our Full Line of Implements, Shellers, Pumps, and the Celebrated Star Windmills. D. L. MEANS, At Benedict’s Old Stand. Satisfaction Guaranteed.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 10, 1884.
D. L. Means purchased Benedict & Owen’s stock of implements last week and took immediate possession. Success to you, D. L.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 10, 1884.
Ad. TO THE PUBLIC. Having sold our entire stock of agricultural implements to D. L. Means, we thank our numerous patrons for their many favors in the past and bespeak for Mr. Means a continuance of the same. BENEDICT & OWEN.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, December 13, 1884.
A. F. & A. M.
At the regular annual election of Crescent Lodge No. 133, A. F. & A. M., which was held last Saturday evening, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year.
Jas. Benedict, W. M.; Chas. Hutchins, S. W.; Calvin Dean, J. W.; H. P. Farrar, Treasurer; S. C. Lindsay, Secretary.
James Benedict and W. R. Owen...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
Our implement men are having a pack of trouble: Lee arrested for felony; Benedict & Owen having mortgaged property, disposed of; and Geo. W. Cunningham levying on mortgaged property.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
W. J. Pointer and his brother were arrested last Friday, by Benedict & Owen, for disposing of mortgaged property. They were convicted and fined $50 and costs, amounting to something over $100.
D. L. Means, successor to Benedict & Owen’s agricultural implement...
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
ARKANSAS CITY.
Her Business Firms and Their Establishments.
D. L. MEANS
is the proprietor of one of the leading agricultural implement establishments in Arkansas City. He occupies Benedict & Owen’s old stand and is successor to them in the implement business. Mr. Means is a young and energetic businessman, and if his opening trade is an indication of what his trade will be when it has reached its maturity, he will do twice the business of his predecessors. All the latest improved farming machinery he has for sale. Pumps, windmills, corn shellers, wagons, buggies, garden and grass seed, gas supplies, etc., fills his store room to repletion. Possessed of the vim and energy which Mr. Means has, we have no fear but what he will create a vast amount of rustling among his competitors.
Wm. Benedict [???] in charge of drug stock...
Arkansas City Republican, January 3, 1885.
Last week the drug store of E. P. Shindel passed into the hands of the sheriff. It was brought about by a Kansas City firm levying on the goods. Dr. Shepard and Col. Ingersoll relieved the embarrassment and now Wm. Benedict has charge of the drug stock.
Mae Benedict Curtis and husband, Wm. H. Curtis, move from Saratoga, New York, to Arkansas City and start erecting a residence...
Arkansas City Republican, January 10, 1885.
Wm. H. Curtis, of Saratoga, New York, through the agency of Meigs & Howard, purchased three lots on which to erect a residence, of W. R. Owen. They are located in the block just west of the east school building. Mr. Curtis is the son-in-law of Mrs. Wm. Benedict. Mr. Curtis will move here in the spring and erect a handsome residence on the lots.
James Benedict: Democrats trying to make him postmaster...
Arkansas City Republican, January 17, 1885.
A petition is being circulated by the Democrats praying that Topliff be removed from the post office here and Jas. Benedict be appointed in his stead. The Democrats forget that the mug-wumps have a mortgage on Cleveland, which they are bound to respect. Besides Cleveland favors the civil service reform plank.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, January 31, 1885.
Jas. Ridenour, W. D. Mowry, Jas. Benedict, and Chas. Hutchins, members of the Masonic order here, go to Emporia to attend Grand Chapter and Grand Lodge on the 16th of February. They are delegates.
Mrs. Lizzie H. Benedict [Mrs. Wm. Benedict]...
Arkansas City Republican, February 7, 1885.
Ivan Robinson, Frank Grosscup, J. L. Howard, Misses Annie Meigs, and Florence Grosscup and Mrs. Lizzie Benedict attended the masquerade at Winfield Thursday evening.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1885.
Ivan Robinson, Miss Florence Grosscup, Frank Grosscup, Miss Anna Meigs, J. L. Howard, and Mrs. Lizzie Benedict attended the bal masque at Winfield, Thursday night.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 12, 1885.
Misses Anna Meigs and Florence Grosscup and Mrs. Lizzie Benedict, and Messrs. Ivan Robinson, L. Howard, and Frank Grosscup were among the Arkansas City folks who attended the masquerade.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 18, 1885.
W. D. Mowry, Jas. Ridenour, Jas. Benedict, and Chas. Hutchins, left Monday noon for Emporia, where they go to attend as delegates the meeting of the Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter of A. F. & A. M. They will be absent until Friday.
Arkansas City Republican, February 21, 1885.
Jas. Ridenour, Jas. Benedict, Robert Baird, W. D. Mowry, and Chas. Hutchins went to Emporia Monday to attend Grand Chapter and Grand Lodge. They came home yesterday.
James Benedict, Arkansas City assessor...
TOWNSHIP ASSESSORS.
They Meet at the Court House and Decide upon a Basis of Assessment.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 5, 1885.
The following named township and city assessors of Cowley County met pursuant to law at the office of the county clerk Monday last to agree upon a basis of valuation for 1885.
Beaver township: J. W. Browning
Bolton: J. A. Scott
Cedar: J. F. McDowell
Creswell: F. M. Vaughn
Dexter: S. H. Wells
Fairview: J. B. Carson
Harvey: Elisha Haines
Liberty: J. C. Cochran
Maple: J. H. Willis
Ninnescah: J. L. Steward
Pleasant Valley: D. S. Sherrard
Richland: Willis Wilson
Rock: J. E. Gorham
Spring Creek: H. S. Libby
Silver Creek: J. R. Tate
Sheridan: Wm. M. Day
Silver Dale: P. F. Haynes
Tisdale: D. Bovee
Vernon: H. H. Martin
Walnut: J. C. Roberts
Winfield City: T. B. Myers
Arkansas City: James Benedict
The meeting organized by electing James Benedict, chairman, and H. H. Martin, secretary.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 7, 1885.
Assessor’s Meeting.
The following named township and city assessors of Cowley County, Kansas, met pursuant to law, at the office of the county clerk, March 2, 1885, at Winfield.
J. W. Browning: Beaver Township.
J. A. Scott: Bolton Township.
J. F. McDowell: Cedar Township.
F. M. Vaughn: Creswell Township.
S. H. Wells: Dexter Township.
R. B. Corson: Fairview Township.
Elisha Haines: Harvey Township.
J. A. Cochran: Liberty Township.
John Willis: Maple Township.
L. C. Stewart: Ninnescah Township.
D. L. Sherrard: Pleasant Valley Township.
Willis Wilson: Richland Township.
J. E. Gorham: Rock Township.
W. N. Day: Sheridan Township.
J. R. Tate: Silver Creek Township.
P. F. Haynes: Silverdale Township.
H. S. Libby: Spring Creek Township.
Daniel Bovee: Tisdale Township.
H. H. Martin: Vernon Township.
J. C. Roberts: Walnut Township.
James Benedict: City Assessor.
T. B. Myers: City Assessor.
Meeting organized by electing Jas. Benedict, chairman, and H. H. Martin, secretary.
Mrs. Lizzie H. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
Mrs. Lizzie Benedict has purchased lots near the Central School building and is having erected a four room cottage thereon.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 21, 1885.
City Election.
Two weeks from next Tuesday city election will occur. As yet no action toward nominating a ticket has been made. Hardly any interest is manifested in the rapidly approaching election. There have been numerous names presented to the public, but none have brought forward a ticket. But a few days yet remain in which to take action. By another issue of the REPUBLICAN, the registration books will be closed Friday, March 27, being the last day in which to register. Over 600 voters have registered their names with the city clerk, Jas. Benedict, yet there are a large number who have not. It seems our citizens are waiting until the last moment before they make the nominations. This is not as it should be. Candidates should be nominated and elected upon a careful consideration by the people. We want men who are willing to work for Arkansas City in office. The future welfare of our town depends largely on the city officers to be elected two weeks from next Tuesday. Somewhere along the territory line thee is going to be a town that will be the gateway to all points south of us. Why not make it Arkansas City? At present our prospects are the brightest. That they may continue we want efficient city officers. Men who will work untiredly for the welfare of Arkansas City. And as such the REPUBLICAN presents the names of the following gentlemen to the voters of Arkansas City for the offices to be filled.
FOR MAYOR. FRANK P. SCHIFFBAUER.
COUNCILMEN: FIRST WARD. JAS. HILL. JACOB HAIGHT.
COUNCILMEN: SECOND WARD. A. V. ALEXANDER. ARCHIE DUNN.
COUNCILMEN: THIRD WARD. DR. H. D. KELLOGG. J. H. HILLIARD.
COUNCILMEN: FOURTH WARD. G. W. MILLER. J. C. DUNCAN.
POLICE JUDGE: S. C. LINDSAY.
CITY CLERK: JAMES BENEDICT.
CITY TREASURER: WILL. MOWRY.
CITY MARSHAL: WM. GRAY.
The REPUBLICAN presents the above ticket to its readers for consideration. We believe the gentlemen composing it are good, patriotic citizens. True, there are others just as capable, but we hope one and all will take it into careful consideration. If there are other men who are wanted worse by the voters of the city to fill the offices mentioned above, they will say so at the coming election, Tuesday, April 7, 1885.
James Benedict, election clerk, Third Ward...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, March 25, 1885.
Election Proclamation.
MAYOR’S OFFICE, CITY OF ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
I, Franklin P. Schiffbauer, Mayor of the City of Arkansas City, County of Cowley, and State of Kansas, by virtue of the authority vested in me by law do proclaim and make known that there will be an annual election held in the said city of Arkansas City, on the 7th day of April, A. D., 1885, for the purpose of electing a mayor, city treasurer, police judge, and justice of the peace, treasurer of the board of education, 2 constables, one councilman for the term of two years from each of the wards of said city, viz: ward No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4, one councilman for the term of one year from each of the aforesaid wards of the said city of Arkansas City. One member of the board of education for the term of two years from each of the aforementioned wards, and 1 member of the board of education for the term of one year from each of the aforementioned wards. The place for voting at said election will be, First ward at the office of Will L. Aldridge, North Summit Street, Second ward, at the office of Thompson & Woodin’s Star Livery Stable, East 5th Avenue, Third ward at the office of J. H. Hilliard’s, 5th Avenue Livery Stable, west 5th Avenue, Fourth ward at William Blakeney’s New store room, West 7th Avenue, and hereby designate Will L. Aldridge and Timothy McIntire, judges, and M. B. Vawter, A. C. Gould, and C. Grimes as clerks of said election in the first ward; and Uriah Spray and William Gibby, judges, and I. H. Bonsall, J. J. Clark, and Oscar Titus, Clerks of said election in the second ward; and L. E. Woodin, Sr., and John Love, judges, and James Benedict, R. C. Hess, and H. S. Lundy as clerks of said election in the third ward; and H. S. Duncan and Allan Harnley, judges, and Alexander Wilson, Wm. Blakeney, and C. L. Thompson, clerks of said election in the fourth ward. The polls will be opened at 9 o’clock a.m., and closed at 6 o’clock p.m.
In witness whereof, I have herewith set my hand this 21st day of March, 1885.
FRANKLIN P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Lizzie H. Benedict...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 2, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers for the past week, as taken from the official records, and furnished the COURIER by the real estate firm of Harris & Clark.
Charles R. Sipes and wife to Lizzie H. Benedict, lot 12, block 73, Arkansas City. $50.00.
Lizzie H. Benedict to Fitch & Barron, lot 12, block 73, Arkansas City. $75.00.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, April 4, 1885.
Voters: 344 voters registered their names with Jas. Benedict, city clerk; up to Friday, March 27. We believe there are enough voters within the city who did not register to expand the number to 900. This would make Arkansas City have a population of over 4,000.
Mrs. Lizzie Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
Mrs. G. S. Manser, of Winfield, visited Mrs. Lizzie Benedict several days the first of this week.
James Benedict, city clerk...
A MUNICIPAL DEAD LOCK.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 6, 1885.
The city council has been playing at cross purposes of late. A week ago last Friday it held an informal meeting, the mayor being absent from the city, and the heavy rain keeping several members at home; but no business was done except to swear in some of the newly elected officers, and resolve to meet on the following Monday.
On Monday the honorable body did not get together, but the following evening they met, the mayor also being present. Mr. O’Neil was in attendance, expecting the water ordinance would be brought up for revision, to state what changes in his proposed contract with the city government he was willing to concede. At 8:15 o’clock Mayor Schiffbauer rapped the council to order, and informed the gentlemen that their proceedings would not be valid unless held in compliance with a call duly signed by the mayor and a majority of the council. City Clerk Benedict then wrote out the call for a special meeting to which the signature of the mayor and four of the council were appended. Another name was wanted, and here came the hitch. Councilmen Dunn and Dean declined to affix their sign manual, unless it was specified in the call that the water works question would not be considered. They were opposed to the present contract as being too loose; it did not go sufficiently into detail, and failed to guard the interest of the taxpayers. Councilman Hill was not present, and they deemed it unwise to take action on so important a matter, or bring it up for consideration, a full board not being present. Councilman Hight advanced the same objection. After some time had been spent in informal debate, the mayor said it would be well to give effect to the call as other public business was awaiting action, and the council could use its own judgment about taking up the water works question.
Leave being granted Mr. O’Neil to address the council, he said he hoped there would be no further delay in considering the contract to which he was a party. It was not for him to say what he would do, but for the gentlemen to specify their requirements. If his present engagement for the construction of water works was not satisfactory, he was willing to amend it; he was there to make liberal concessions, but he must first know what was demanded of him. He hoped there would be no further delay as he was here under expense, and had money on deposit to go on with the work which could be put to profitable use elsewhere.
A lively cross-fire ensued between Mr. Dunn and the speaker, to which Messrs. Dean and Hight contributed an occasional shot. The debate made the fact apparent that those gentlemen opposed any action on the question in the absence of Mr. Hill, and as this maintained the deadlock, at 9 o’clock the mayor declared there would be no meeting of the council, and the business ended in smoke.
James Benedict, city clerk, was involved in many new ordinances.
Only giving Ordinance No. 1 in full...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
New Ordinances.
We publish some city ordinances in this issue, and under the requirement of law, the publication will be continued. The creation of Arkansas City as a city of the second class necessitates the enactment of our whole code of municipal laws. The revision is now being made by a committee of the council, under direction of the city attorney, and on their adoption by the council they will be published in the TRAVELER. When the revision and re-enactment are completed, the ordinances will be re-published in collected form, in order that all persons amenable to their penalties may be duly informed of the municipal rules and regulations binding upon their conduct. There has been some laxity in the conduct of our municipal affairs, we now hope to see better order established.
Ordinance No. 1.
Relating to certain petty offenses, defining the same and providing for the suppression thereof and punishment therefor.
Be it ordained by the mayor and councilmen of the City of Arkansas City:
SECTION 1. That any person drawing a pistol, revolver, knife, or any other deadly weapon upon another person, unless an officer of the law in the discharge of his duty, shall, upon conviction, thereof, be fined in any sum not less than $10 nor more than $100.
SECTION 2. That any person who shall, by words, signs, or gestures, provoke or attempt to provoke another to commit an assault and battery, or other breach of the peace within the limits of the city, shall upon conviction, be fined in a sum not less than $3 or more than $25.
SECTION 3. That any person who shall curse, swear, quarrel, or use violent and threatening language, or make any great noise so as to disturb the peace of any person within the limits of the city, shall upon conviction, be fined in a sum not exceeding $25.
SECTION 4. That any person who shall be found within the corporate limits of the city of Arkansas City in a state of intoxication or drunkenness, shall be fined in a sum not exceeding $10.
SECTION 5. That any person carrying any deadly or dangerous weapons, such as loaded fire-arms, slung-shot, sheath, or dirk-knife, or any other weapons which when used are liable to produce death or great bodily harm, unconcealed, within the corporate limits of the city, shall upon conviction, be fined in a sum not less than $1 or more than $10.
SECTION 6. That any person or persons carrying any of the weapons mentioned in section 5 of this ordinance, concealed about his person, shall upon conviction thereof, be fined in a sum not less than $5 or more than $25.
SECTION 7. That any person or persons discharging any fire-arms, letting off any fire-crackers or squibs, or throwing any fire-balls, or making any bonfire in the limits of the city, shall upon conviction, be fined in any sum of not less than $3 or more than $10, provided, that the section shall not apply to the 24th or 25th day of December, or the 1st day of January, or the 4th day of July, or the 22nd day of February; and provided further, that this section may be suspended on other days by the mayor; neither shall this section apply to the discharge of fire-arms in licensed shooting galleries, nor to the shooting of dogs running at large in violation of city ordinance.
SECTION 8. That any and every person who shall ride or drive any horse, mule, or other animal at an immoderate speed, or at a race within the city limits, shall be fined in a sum not exceeding $25.
SECTION 9. That any and all persons riding, driving, or leading any horse, mule, ass, or neat cattle upon or across any sidewalks within the city limits, shall upon conviction, be fined for each offense any sum not less than one or more than ten dollars.
SECTION 10. That any man or woman who are not married to each other, who shall lewdly abide with each other, or shall sleep or occupy the same apartment for lewd and lascivious purposes, within the city limits, shall upon conviction, each be fined in any sum not to exceed one hundred dollars.
SECTION 11. That every person who shall make an indecent exposure of his person within the city, shall upon conviction, be fined any sum not to exceed one hundred dollars.
SECTION 12. That any person or persons who shall in any way obstruct the street crossings in the city, shall upon conviction thereof, be fined in a sum not less than one dollar or more than five dollars.
SECTION 13. That any person or persons destroying or damaging any city property shall upon conviction, be fined in a sum not less than the amount of damage committed.
SECTION 14. That any person or persons who shall knowingly or willfully create a false alarm of fire within the city of Arkansas City, by building bonfires for that purpose, or by ringing the fire bell, or by the cry of fire, shall upon conviction thereof, be fined in a sum not less than five dollars or more than fifty dollars.
SECTION 15. That any person beating, injuring, or treating any animal in an immoderate, cruel, or unnecessary manner, shall upon conviction, be fined in any sum not to exceed fifty dollars.
SECTION 16. For hitching any team or animal to any lamp post, awning post, or growing trees along the streets of Arkansas City, or training or breaking any horse or mule on any street, or between the 1st day of March and the 1st day of October, hitching, training, breaking, or displaying or showing any stallion on any street, a fine of not less than three or more than ten dollars.
SECTION 17. That any person who shall be convicted and fined, under any provision of this ordinance or any ordinance of the city, who shall fail to pay such fine and costs of prosecution, shall perform such work for the city as the mayor shall direct, and all prisoners working for the city shall be allowed 50 cents per day to be applied in satisfaction of such fine and costs.
SECTION 18. The fines specified in the foregoing ordinance shall in no case include costs.
SECTION 19. This ordinance to take effect and be in force from and after its publication once in the Arkansas City TRAVELER.
Approved May 11th, 1885.
F. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Attest: JAS. BENEDICT, City Clerk.
Ordinance No. 2 concerned public health.
Ordinance No. 3 prohibited certain persons from climbing upon moving trains in the city of Arkansas City.
Ordinance No. 4 fixed salaries and compensation for city officers and employees.
It seems that Mayor Schiffbauer was determined to make changes.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
Election Proclamation.
MAYOR’S OFFICE, CITY OF ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
I, Franklin P. Schiffbauer, Mayor of the City of Arkansas City, county of Cowley, and state of Kansas, by virtue of the authority vested in me by law, do proclaim and make known that there will be a special election held in the said city of Arkansas City on the first day of June, A. D. 1885, for the purpose of submitting to the qualified voters of said city of Arkansas City, a proposition for said city to subscribe to the capital stock of the Kansas City and Southwestern Railroad Company to the amount of Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000). [See Mayor’s proclamation.]
There will also be held on the said 1st day of June, A. D. 1885, a special election of the qualified voters of said city of Arkansas City for the purpose of voting for or against a proposition for said county of Cowley to subscribe to the capital stock of the Kansas City and Southwestern Railroad Company to the amount of One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000).
[See Sheriff’s proclamation.]
The form of the ballots to be used at such special election for and against the proposition to take stock and issue bonds therefor, as above recited, shall be in the following form, to-wit: the ballot in favor of such proposition shall contain these words, “For the railroad stock and bonds of the Kansas City and Southwestern railroad company,” and the ballot against said proposition shall contain these words, “Against the railroad stock and bonds of the Kansas City and Southwestern railroad company.” The places for voting at such election will be: 1st ward, at the office of Will L. Aldridge, North Summit Street; 2nd ward, at the office of Thompson and Woodin, Star Livery stable, east 5th avenue; 3rd ward, at the office of J. H. Hilliard, 5th avenue livery stable, west 5th avenue; 4th ward, at the office of Fairclo Bros.’ livery stable, West Central avenue. And I hereby designate Timothy McIntire and J. P. Eckles as Judges and J. B. Walker, O. Grimes, and John Sheldon as Clerks of said election in 1st ward; and Chas. Bryant and Ira Barnett as Judges and J. J. Clark, Dell Plank, and John McGill, as Clerks of said election in 2nd ward; and M. C. Copple and John Love as Judges, and James Benedict, W. B. Kirkpatrick, and H. L. Lundy as Clerks of said election in 3rd ward; and H. G. [J.] Chinn and A. A. Davis as Judges, and Wm. Henderson, Alexander Wilson and S. C. Lindsey as Clerks of said election in 4th ward. The polls will be opened at 9 o’clock a.m., and will be closed at 5 o’clock p.m.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 19th day of May, A. D., 1885.
FRANKLIN P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
James Benedict, City Clerk: more ordinances...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 27, 1885.
For some reason, paper never printed Ordinances 5 and 10.
The following ordinances passed:
6. Provided against danger of frightening horses and teams, and for the prevention of runaways in the city.
7. Related to larceny and assault and battery.
8. Related to repairing sidewalks.
9. Related to obstructions on Main Street.
10. Fixed times for regular meeting of city council.
James Benedict, Assessor...
LEGAL NOTICES.
Auditor’s Report for May.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
ASSESSORS’ FEES.
To Whom Allowed. Amount Allowed.
James Benedict $201.00.
Lizzie Benedict...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 9, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
Lizzie Benedict to Wm A Nix, lots 25 and 26, blk 140, A. C.: $100.
Wm. Benedict [?], Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Republican article on July 25th stated James Benedict was owner of building occupied by D. L. Means...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 22, 1885.
DISASTROUS FIRE.
Half a Block on Summit Street Goes Up In Smoke.
On Monday night about 11:30 the cry of fire was raised. Among the first attracted by the alarm were Frank Schiffbauer, mayor of the city, and Capt. Rarick, deputy sheriff, who were just parting for the night on the First National Bank corner. They ran in the direction of the cry, and seeing a blaze in the rear of the New York Restaurant, ran for the hose reel, and in five or six minutes returned to the same. The flames had burst forth in the meantime, and were making rapid headway, the building being of frame, and similar buildings adjoining it on both sides. A crowd gathered, and among the foremost to act was Charley Holloway, who kicked in the glazed door of Grimes & Son’s drug store, and walked through the building with a view of saving its contents. He found the fire had extended to the rear portion of the store, and an explosion of some vessel a short distance in front of him, which scattered fragments wounding both his hands, cautioned him that he was in an unsafe place. An attempt was made to attach the hose to the hydrant, but some trouble was experienced in detaching the cap. During this while the flames spread rapidly, the wind which fortunately was light, driving the fire in the direction of Central Avenue. Heitkam’s tailor store and a barber shop were on the lot south of the New York Restaurant, and the occupants were promptly on hand to save their stock and furniture from the devouring element. Mr. Heitkam saved half of his stock of cloth and made up suits, but the frame buildings with their combustible contents, burned so fiercely that the feeble efforts at extinguishing it were hardly perceptible. In half an hour the buildings extending north to Central Avenue were in a blaze, and it was evident that no power could be exerted to save them. Crowds of men worked diligently to rescue what was portable, but confusion prevailed, and there was no intelligent direction given to their efforts. The St. Louis Restaurant, Grimes & Son’s drug store, Bundrem’s butcher shop, and Means’ implement store were by 12 o’clock in the vortex of the flames, and brief time was afforded the willing workers to rescue the doomed property from destruction. To save Mowry & Sollitt’s brick drug store, Kroenert & Austin’s grocery store, on the lot adjoining, was pulled down, which stopped the progress of the flames in a southward direction. Mowry & Sollitt, fearing their store would be involved, began moving their stock; but on the suggestion of Capt. Thompson that the risk was less to let their goods remain, the hasty tearing up was discontinued, and they escaped with slight loss. Being checked on the south side and isolated at the other end by the width of the street, the fire abated about an hour after a bad burst forth, and spread over no more territory. The stream from the hydrant was kept up through the night cooling the smoldering embers, and when the business of the next day opened, the sight was presented to the beholder of half a block on our main business street being laid in ruins. D. L. Means loses $3,000 in his stock, his insurance is $1,000. Kroenert & Austin suffer quite as seriously. C. A. Burnett estimates his loss at $2,400; he has $1,500 insurance. The buildings being rated as extra hazardous, and the rate of insurance 7 percent, owners and occupants were chary of securing themselves on heavy sums. The following is a list of the losses and insurance.
Lot 1. Lot and building owned by W. Benedict. Insured for $500. Occupied by D. L. Means, insured in North American for $1,000.
Lot 3. Lot and building owned by Mrs. Benedict and occupied by C. A. Burnett, as the St. Louis Restaurant. Building uninsured; stock insured for $1,500 in equal amounts in the Mechanics of Milwaukee, the Northwestern National, and the Connecticut.
James Benedict, city clerk, absent in the territory...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 22, 1885.
The council chamber was filled on Monday evening with a large attendance of citizens, who evidently expected that a racy entertainment would be provided them by our city fathers. But they were disappointed as the evening passed off quietly. Mayor Schiffbauer presided and held the council strictly to business. City Clerk Benedict being absent in the territory, Frederic Lockley acted in his place.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 22, 1885.
Ordinance No. 19.
Entitled an ordinance relating to water works in the city of Arkansas City, Kansas, and repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances, or franchise relating thereto.
SECTION 1. That the works of said city shall be known as the Arkansas City water works, and shall be owned and controlled by said city, in the manner hereinafter provided.
Skipped the rest.
James and William Benedict...
BIG FIRE AT A. C.
Ten Frame Buildings Go Up in Smoke.
Total Loss, Above Insurance, $20,000.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 23, 1885.
Arkansas City had a big blaze Monday—a wicked blaze that put her water works to shame. It broke out about eleven o’clock. Through Dick Howard, of the Republican, and our courteous telephone manager, Mrs. Bishop, we “caught on” to the particulars. The rear of the St. Louis restaurant was the starting point, caught through some irregularity in the kitchen. This is in the first business block on the right going into Arkansas City from the north. Ten frame buildings joined it, on either side, and they burned like tinder. The whole ten were consumed in a remarkably short space of time. Arkansas City’s petty fire department was used for all it was worth, but it only urged the fire on. Some proposed to run a car up for our fire companies, but the fire had too much headway for this. Scarcely any contents were saved. The buildings were all small, there being but two two-story ones, and had an aggregate of $6,500 insurance. The stocks were nearly all insured. The total loss, over insurance, will reach $20,000. The heaviest losers were Chas. Burnett, St. Louis restaurant, $2,700, with $1,500 insurance; Lang, N. Y. restaurant, $2,000, insurance $500; Kroenert & Austin, groceries, $2,000, insurance $1,000, A. G. Heitkam clothing, $1,600, half insured.
The buildings were owned by James and William Benedict, Kroenert & Austin, Dr. Shepard, and one or two others. Besides those named, there were burned: D. L. Means’ implement house, loss $3,000; Grimes & Son, drug store, loss about $1,000; Bundrem’s meat shop; Gibson and Perryman, barbers; and coal office of Ivan Robinson. If a breeze had been going, it is thought the fire would have doubled in disaster. While a loss to the occupants, there is no doubt that the burning of these old rookeries will be a blessing to the Terminus. Good brick or stone buildings will now go up, an honor to the town.
James Benedict, Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, July 25, 1885.
THE FIRE.
Arkansas City Visited Once Again by the Devouring Flames.
Last Monday night between 11 and 12 o’clock the cry of “fire” rang out upon the still night, and the gentle Kansas zephyrs wafted the sound to the ponderous ears of the REPUBLICAN reporter. Springing from our bed, of down—on the floor—we hastily donned the first article we placed our hands on and started on a dead run for the scene of the conflagration. We were among the first to arrive and we found the St. Louis Restaurant and Grimes & Son’s Drug Store almost enveloped in flames. The fire had gained so much headway that it was impossible to put it out.
The predominating idea was to save Mowry & Sollitt’s brick drug store, and leave the old frame buildings go. In accordance with the view, the hose was turned on the Pickle building while the excited populace attempted to tear down the building occupied by A. G. Heitkam with his tailoring establishment, but the heat from the burning buildings was so excessive that the crowd turned its efforts to tearing out the Diamond Front building.
The fire spread in both directions and in 20 minutes after the origin of the fire, the St. Louis Restaurant, Grimes & Son’s Drug Store, Chas. Bundrem’s Meat Shop, D. L. Means’ Implement House, and O. F. Lang’s Restaurant were in ashes.
By the time the fire had got a good hold on Heitkam’s Tailor Shop, the Diamond Front building had been torn out and the brick drug store was saved.
The nine buildings were burned in about one hour and a quarter. After once getting a start, they went as if they had been saturated with coal oil. They were so dry and old that it is a wonder that the fire was not conveyed across the street by the great heat. The wind hardly stirred and by persistent efforts of everyone, the fire did not get into the brick buildings.
The fire originated in the rear of the St. Louis Restaurant. T. S. Moorhead, who rooms over C. R. Sipes’ Hardware Store across the street, was sitting in the window of his room and saw the flames burst forth from that establishment. Some say the fire originated in the New York Restaurant, but it is a mistake, for when the REPUBLICAN representative arrived on the scene, this building had not caught fire. No one knows positively how the fire started, but the most probable theory advanced is that a tallow candle had been left burning in the St. Louis Restaurant, sitting on a board; and that the candle burned down to the board, setting it on fire. The flames were spread by the melted tallow on the board until they got a good start, and by the time it was discovered, they were past subjection. C. A. Burnett, the proprietor of the restaurant, had gone home, but we are informed that one of the employees was sitting in the business room asleep in a chair.
THE LOSERS AND THEIR LOSSES.
D. L. Means occupied the corner room with an implement stock. He carried a $3,000 stock and had only $1,000 of insurance. James Benedict owned the building and was carrying $500 insurance. His loss is probably in the neighborhood of $500.
The building owned by Mrs. Wm. Benedict was insured for $300. Her loss was about $500 above insurance. C. A. Burnett occupied the building with his restaurant stock valued by him at $2,500. His insurance was $1,500.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, July 25, 1885.
Miss Annie Lowry, of Winfield, is visiting at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, August 1, 1885.
Fourteen ladies took advantage of the beautiful moonlight Monday evening to go buggy-riding. The party was composed of Mrs. J. H. Hilliard, Miss Grace Bridwell, Mrs. John Kroenert, Mrs. H. O. Nicholson, Mrs. H. P. Farrar, Mrs. Wm. Benedict, Mrs. C. R. Sipes, Mrs. Chas. Schiffbauer, Mrs. Lilian Carney, Mrs. R. E. Grubbs, Mrs. H. H. Perry, Mrs. A. J. Chapel, Mrs. J. Landes, Mrs. Isaac Ochs, and Mrs. J. O. Campbell. These jovial ladies drove some six miles up the Winfield road, returning at about 9:30 p.m. On arriving in the city, they came up Summit Street in one grand procession as far as Hamilton & Pentecost’s Restaurant, where the command was given to halt and refreshments were served. They departed for home after fulfilling the maxim of “eating, drinking, and being merry.”
James Benedict, Election Judge...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 5, 1885.
Election Proclamation. MAYOR’S OFFICE, Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas.
I, Franklin P. Schiffbauer, mayor of the city of Arkansas City, by virtue of authority vested in me by law, do hereby proclaim and make known that there will be an especial election held in the third ward of the said city, on Friday, the 14th day of August, A. D. 1885, for the purpose of electing one councilman from said ward to fill vacancy caused by the resignation of Councilman O. S. Rarick (short term); and I hereby designate the office of J. Hilliard, west 5th Avenue, as the place of voting at such election. And I hereby designate James Benedict and H. S. Lundy and M. C. Copple as judges and F. Speers and Ed. Kingsberry as clerks of said election. Poles will be open at 9 o’clock p.m. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 4th day of August, A. D. 1885.
F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 5, 1885.
Benedict involved in two more ordinances (21 and 22)...
No. 21 amended Ordinance No. 5 and pertained to a license tax.
No. 22 amended Ordinance No. 19 and pertained to licenses.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, August 15, 1885.
City Clerk Benedict received a letter from attorneys representing the O’Neil Water Works outfit demanding that $20,000 damages be paid them. This is rich, rare, and racy.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, August 22, 1885.
Wm. Curtis, of Cambridge, New York, arrived in the city Thursday. Mr. Curtis is a son-in-law of Mrs. Benedict.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 9, 1885.
WATER WORKS COMMITTEE.
Specifications Adopted to be Submitted to Bidders.
The water works committee met in the mayor’s office on Saturday evening, all the members present. The business of the meeting was to determine the best way to advertise for proposals, and after an informal debate it was decided that an advertisement inserted in some of the leading scientific and mechanical papers, would be most apt to engage the attention of those parties the committee desired to reach. Mayor Schiffbauer read the following as the form of advertisement to be inserted.
PROPOSALS FOR FRANCHISE.
Sealed proposals, endorsed “Proposals for water works,” will be received until 12 o’clock noon on Monday, the 12th day of October, 1885, by the undersigned city clerk of the city of Arkansas City, Cowley County, Kansas. Specifications of the works will be forwarded on application to the city clerk. The city reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
JAMES BENEDICT, City Clerk.
Mr. J. G. Danks suggested that the above notice be inserted in the following papers: Scientific American, American Machinist, Age of Steel, Mechanical News, which was approved by the committee. It was estimated that two insertions would cost about $25.
The specifications had also been prepared by the mayor, and were read to the committee as follows.
SPECIFICATIONS FOR ARKANSAS CITY WATER WORKS.
The city of Arkansas City, in Cowley County, Kansas, desiring to have constructed a system of water works, and having advertised for bids for the construction of the same, and knowing the necessity of bidders being informed as nearly as possible as to the wishes of the citizens in regard to their wants, the following has been prepared by the committee as a guide to contractors in which they have aimed to cover all points. If it shall be found that any points have been omitted that may be found necessary to be understood before bidding, the same can be ascertained by addressing the mayor or the city clerk, stating the information wanted, and any such correspondence will be promptly answered.
The following requirements should be strictly observed by bidders.
PUMPS.
Two Compound Duplex Pumps will be required, each capable of pumping one million gallons of water every twenty-four hours; to be arranged so as to run either separately or together.
BOILERS.
There will also be required two boilers, each capable of running the pumps at full capacity with easy firing, and so arranged as to be run either separately or together.
TANK.
The tank to be of iron and of the dimensions of twenty-five feet diameter and sixty feet high, and to be placed on a tower fifty feet high, substantially built of stone and in cement.
MAINS.
There will be required five thousand six hundred and thirty feet of twelve inch main, eight thousand three hundred and ten feet of eight inch main, and twelve thousand four hundred and seventy feet of four inch main. All mains to be standard cast iron. The above mains have all been located by the committee and sketched on a map, which can be examined at any time at the mayor’s office.
DIRECT PRESSURE.
The standpipe shall be so arranged that it may be shut off from the main and give direct pressure from the pumps into the main.
TEST.
The water works when completed shall be subject to a test which shall consist of the pumping capacity of the pumps, the throwing of five fire streams through fifty feet of two and one-half inch rubber hose, and one-inch ring nozzle, from any five hydrants the city council may select, at the same time, a distance of sixty-five feet high from the standpipe pressure alone, and one hundred feet high from direct pressure. The city shall not be required to pay hydrant rent until after the successful operation of the test.
SOURCE OF SUPPLY.
This is to be determined by the parties drawing he franchise. It is the opinion that an abundant supply of good, pure water can be obtained at the springs on the townsite, and if it is found that the supply should be found inadequate at this point, or that the water should prove unwholesome, then and in that case, the supply must be obtained from a filter basin near the Arkansas River, in which case there would be required one mile additional supply pipe.
GENERAL.
The company securing the franchise will be required to execute a good and sufficient bond to the city, secured by unencumbered real estate in the penal sum of twenty thousand dollars, conditioned for the faithful performance of the contract and the successful performance of the required test.
The city reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
Fifty copies of the above were ordered neatly printed in circular form. The committee then adjourned.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, September 30, 1885.
In the burnt district, S. B. Pickle, Dr. Shepard, and Kroenert & Austin are excavating for new buildings. Mrs. Benedict and J. H. Sherburne will also start in a few days. Postmaster Topliff will shortly start on the erection of a fifty foot business building south of the Hasie block, and other similar improvements are under consideration.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 7, 1885.
BUILDING ACTIVITY.
A Brief Statement of the Building Growth of Arkansas City.
The cry of hard times may be raised, but where building activity continues unabated, there can be no cause for dejection. Almost every day we see new buildings started, all of a permanent and solid character and an evidence of the progress and thrift of the city. In the burnt district foundations are being dug for six new business buildings, two story and basement, each 25 feet by 100. William Gall, the architect, has prepared the plans for four of these buildings, those of J. H. Sherburne, S. B. Pickle, Mrs. Benedict, and Dr. Shepard, and this row of iron fronts, extending 100 feet, with plate windows and elaborate finish, will be an enduring monument to the enterprise and growth of our city. Messrs. Kroenert & Austin, at the south end of the burnt region, intend to erect a one story brick, uniform with the building adjoining it on the south (Mowry & Sollitt’s drug store), and Mr. Bittle, at the north end, is excavating his foundation without having decided fully on his plan.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, October 7, 1885.
Council Proceedings.
The city council met in regular session on Monday evening, at 7:30 o’clock; Councilman Thompson presiding, Mayor Schiffbauer being detained at home owing to the sickness of his wife. All the members were present except Bailey and Hill.
City Clerk Benedict asked permission to move the building on the rear of his lot (sold to Joseph Bittle) across Central Avenue to the rear of Judge Bonsall’s office. Granted.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, October 21, 1885.
Ordinance No. 24
An ordinance granting the right of way to the Kansas City and Southwestern Railroad Company upon and across certain streets and alleys in the city of Arkansas City, in Cowley County, Kansas.
Lizzie H. Benedict...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 1, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
Dougal Owen et ux to Lizzie Benedict, ne quarter 9-35-7e, 160 acres: $3,200.00.
Lizzie H Benedict to Dougal Owen, lots 13 and 14, blk 62, and lot 26 in blk 128 and lot 26, blk 17, A. C.: $3,200.00.
Lizzie H Benedict et al to A A Newman, lot 23, blk 82, A. C., q-c: $100.00.
James Benedict, stockholder, Riverview Cemetery Association...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 14, 1885.
Last Tuesday evening was the time for the meeting of the stockholders composing the Riverview Cemetery Association. They were called to assemble in the real estate office of Meigs & Nelson. James Benedict was the only stockholder on hand. He adjourned the meeting until next Tuesday evening at the same place without a dissenting voice. It is earnestly urged that the stockholders make their appearance next Tuesday evening at 7:30 sharp.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, November 21, 1885.
The Union Mite Society of the U. P. Church will meet with Will and Emma Campbell, Tuesday evening, November 24, at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict. An interesting time is expected, and all are invited to attend.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 18, 1885.
ORDINANCE NO. 25.
Entitled an ordinance granting the right of way to the Kansas City & Southwestern Railroad Company upon and across certain streets, avenues, and alleys in the city of Arkansas City in Cowley County, Kansas, and Repealing Ordinance No. 24.
Be it ordained by the mayor and city council of the city of Arkansas City, Kansas.
SECTION 1. There is hereby granted to the Kansas City & Southwestern Railroad Company the right of way to construct, operate, and maintain, the main line of its railroad, and all necessary side tracks, along and upon Thirteenth street in said city of Arkansas City, and across the following avenues in said city, to-wit: Thirteenth avenue, Twelfth avenue, Eleventh avenue, Tenth avenue, Ninth avenue, Eighth avenue, Seventh avenue, Central avenue, Fifth avenue, Fourth avenue, Third avenue, Second avenue, and First avenue; with a right to diverge from said Thirteenth street at or near Central avenue, and across Central avenue, Fifth Avenue, Fourteenth street, Fourth avenue, and Fifteenth street in said city, and the right to construct either its main line or a switch diverging from said Thirteenth street along and upon the east bank of the canal and across Fifth avenue, Fourth avenue, Eleventh street, Third avenue, Second avenue, Tenth street, and First avenue in said city and across any and all alleys on either of said lines.
SECTION 2. Said Railroad Company shall construct and maintain at its own cost suitable crossings over its track for the passage of vehicles and teams and for the ordinary use as a street or alley where the same crosses any of the avenues, streets, or alleys mentioned in this ordinance; said crossings to be the full width of such avenue, street, or alley; and shall construct and maintain in like manner proper culverts and waterways where the same shall be needed, which shall be done under the direction of the city engineer of said city of Arkansas City.
SECTION 3. That said railroad company shall save the city of Arkansas City harmless from all costs, damages, and expenses, for the payment of which the said city may become liable to any person, or persons, or corporation, by reason of the granting of said right of way to said railroad company; or by reason of the construction or operation of said railroad, or by reason of said railroad company failing to construct suitable and proper crossings, culverts, and waterways, and maintaining and keeping the same in repairs as herein provided, or by reason of said company failing to perform or comply with any other of the provisions or requirements of this ordinance.
SECTION 4. Said railroad company shall accept the provisions of this ordinance in writing within twenty days from the date of its publication, and said right of way and use of streets, avenues, and alleys, shall be and remain, and vest in railroad company as long as the same shall be used for railroad purposes; and this ordinance, when accepted by said railroad company, shall operate and be binding as a contract between said city of Arkansas City, and said railroad company as accepted.
SECTION 5. That Ordinance No. 24, of the ordinances of said city, entitled an ordinance granting the right of way to the Kansas City and Southwestern Railroad Co. upon and across certain streets and alleys in the city of Arkansas City, be, and the same is hereby repealed.
SECTION 6. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication once in the Arkansas City TRAVELER, and its acceptance by said railroad company.
Approved November 16, 1885. F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, Mayor.
Attest: JAS. BENEDICT, Clerk.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 25, 1885.
THE RAILROAD AT HAND.
Excursions Over the New Line from Arkansas City to Beaumont.
Steel Rails and Oak Ties, and a Finely Equipped Road.
On Monday Mr. Henry E. Asp, on behalf of the managers of the Kansas City and Southwestern Kansas railroad, then within a few miles of Arkansas City, tendered Mayor Schiffbauer and the city council an excursion over the line to Beaumont and return. The mayor said he should like the invitation extended so as to include our principal businessmen. Mr. Asp said a general excursion to our citizens would be given as soon as the road was completed to the city, and arrangements could be made for the entertainment of a large number of guests, but at the present time not more than a score of excursionists could be provided for. This being the case, Mayor Schiffbauer invited the city council, authorizing each member to take a friend along, and also included in the invitation the railroad committee of the board of trade. This filled out the allotted number.
The following gentlemen composed the excursion party.
Mayor Schiffbauer, Councilmen Thompson, Bailey, Dunn, Dean, Davis, and Hight. (Councilman A. D. Prescott was unable to take part, through business engagements, and Councilman Hill was found superintending the construction of the road.)
The friends they invited and who were present for duty, were mine host Perry, J. Frank Smith, J. H. Hilliard, Frank Thompson, and City Clerk Benedict.
The railroad committee consisted of A. A. Newman, N. T. Snyder, Major Sleeth, G. W. Cunningham, W. D. Mowry, and T. H. McLaughlin. These with the present writer (nineteen in all) formed the invited party, Henry E. Asp accompanying them as host and guide.
At 7:30 on Tuesday morning, omnibuses were in waiting at the Leland Hotel to carry the excursionists to the end of the track, and the party being seated, a brisk drive of three miles carried them to an animated scene. The day’s labors had begun, upwards of 100 workmen being employed. A construction train of ten or a dozen cars was on hand, loaded with implements and material: ties, rails, fish-plates, bolts, spikes, shovels, and so on. The ties were of well seasoned oak brought from Arkansas, which were being unloaded by lusty arms, and thrown onto tracks, which was distributed along the grade. The train was standing on the foremost rails that were spiked, and in advance of this was a rail truck drawn by two mules, which recovered the iron from the flat car, and carried it forward over the loose rails, a force of men standing by the truck and laying the rail as fast as the ties were in place.
Track laying, in these days of railroad building, is reduced to an exact science. The ties are laid along the road bed under the direction of a foreman; another crew extends the nails, which is followed up by the spike-drivers. A sufficient force can lay two miles of track a day without extraordinary effort, and the onlooker has to maintain a steady sauntering pace to keep up with the workmen.
Some delay was caused on Tuesday morning by a disagreement between two foremen, which resulted in a fisticuff encounter. The aggressor in the unpleasantness was discharged, and his crew, numbering about thirty men, refused to work under another boss. They were all sent to Winfield to receive their pay, and a fresh force brought from there to take their place. This delayed the work about an hour and a half.
At 8:30 a.m. the whistle of the excursion train sounded about one-fourth of a mile along the track, and our party of pleasure seekers made good time walking in the direction of the cars. T. H. McLaughlin stumped along, with his one live leg, as agile as the best of them; but Councilman Davis, another mutilated war veteran, jumped into a vehicle to save a fatiguing walk. The track to Winfield is not yet ballasted, and the running time to that city was slow. The bridge over the Walnut is a substantial piece of work, being raised on trestles 45 feet above the stream, and the approaches being supported on solid masonry. The two miles of road south of Winfield cost $65,000.
At Winfield a brief stay was made to take on passengers, and here Mr. Latham joined the party, who was heartily greeted by his Arkansas City guests, and who spent the day in their company. From Winfield a good rate of speed was put on, the road being well ballasted and running as smoothly as a bowling green. The first station reached was Floral, nine miles from Winfield. This is a thrifty place, which has sprung into existence since the road was built, is well situated, and surrounded by a good country. Wilmot is 8½ miles distant, and Atlanta, 7 miles along. Latham is in Butler County, also a railroad town, built on a broad creek, and already containing 400 or 500 inhabitants. Commodious stone stores are in process of erection, an extensive lumber yard is well stocked, and other business lines are well represented. At Wingate (between the two places last named) there is a flag station. Beaumont was reached about 11:30, the distance from Latham being 13 miles. Here the K. C. & S. W. Road forms a junction with the St. Louis & San Francisco road, and here the journey terminated. Several miles of the Flint hills were traversed in reaching here, a surface formation of brecciated and abraded rock, which proves that at some time in the geological periods this whole region was overflown. Dinner was ready for the excursionists when they stepped off at the station, their dining hall being a commodious room on the upper floor of that building, under charge of Noah Herring and his very excellent and capable wife. Two tables furnished room for the score of hungry guests, and a good dinner, promptly served, was in waiting to allay their hunger.
Here four hours was afforded to take in the town, and enjoy the fine scenery that surrounded it. A party of the most robust pedestrians, under conduct of Henry Asp, took a breezy walk over the hills into Greenwood County; where a fine panorama of scenic beauty lay spread before their gaze, with Eureka, in the distance, nestling in the valley, like a sylvan deity. Those less enterprising visited the post office, made acquaintance with store keepers, talked with the oldest inhabitant, and then played the games of billiards, pigeon-hole, and quoits. Major Schiffbauer, at the first named game, made some extraordinary shots in missing the balls he aimed at. At quoits G. W. Cunningham did great execution, bombarding with his rings an extensive region of country around the pin he professed to aim at.
Our narrative of this very enjoyable trip must be brought to a close, as space fails. At 4:30 the train started on return. Mr. Young, of Young, Latham & Co., the builders of the road, who came in on the Frisco train, joined the party. Winfield was reached at 7:30, where our friends belonging to that city, left us, and Ed Gray came on board, escorting W. H. Nelson (of Meigs & Nelson), who had been spending a day in the county clerk’s office, making a transcript from the tax list. Towards the close of the journey a vote of thanks to the officers of the road was proposed by Mayor Schiffbauer for their hospitality to the excursionists, and polite attention to them as guests of the day. This was heartily responded to by the party. The day’s labors of the track layers brought them 1¼ miles nearer the city. Omnibuses were in waiting to convey the tired travelers to the city, and by 9 o’clock they were deposited at the Leland Hotel, all clamorous for supper, but unanimous in declaring they had spent a delightful day.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, November 25, 1885.
Ordinance No. 26.
Entitled an ordinance to provide for the construction of and regulating the operating of Waterworks in the city of Arkansas City, Kansas, and for supplying said city and the inhabitants thereof with water for the extinguishing of fires, and other public and domestic purposes.
Be it ordained by the mayor and city council of the city of Arkansas City, Kansas:
SECTION 1. The Inter-State Gas Company, a corporation fully organized according to law, having its main office in the city of St. Louis, Mo., its successor or assigns, for and in consideration of the obligations hereinafter imposed on them by this ordinance, be, and they are hereby authorized to use the streets, avenues, lanes, alleys, and public grounds of the present and future limits of the city of Arkansas City, Kansas, for the purpose of laying down pipes for the conveyance of water in and through said city, for the use of said city and its inhabitants.
Skipped the rest of the sections.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
BOOMING BEAUMONT
VISITED BY SOME OF OUR CITIZENS TUESDAY.
An Excursion Over the K. C. & S. W., that Long Fought For Railroad.
Beaumont Found to be a Booming Metropolis (?),
Fast Growing in Opulence upon the Flint Hills of Butler County.
Early on last Tuesday morning, two omnibuses drew up to the Leland Hotel and took on board the following gentlemen, who had been invited by the managers of the K. C. & S. W., to take a pleasure trip over that road to the famous and booming Beaumont: Mayor Schiffbauer, Councilmen Hight, Davis, Thompson, Bailey, Dean, and Dunn, and their friends whom they invited, H. H. Perry, J. Frank Smith, J. H. Hilliard, Frank Thompson, and City Clerk Benedict; also, the railroad committee, consisting of A. A. Newman, N. T. Snyder, Major Sleeth, G. W. Cunningham, W. D. Mowry, and T. H. McLaughlin. Bro. Lockley, too, was among the honored ones, and was to chronicle the thrilling incidents of the trip, furnish intellectual food for the party, and report the impressive appearance, the “sights” and widely spread influence, of flourishing Beaumont. After a drive of about three miles, the gleeful party reached the end of the track, where over 200 railroad hands were busy at work, rapidly advancing the “iron bands” towards Arkansas City.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 28, 1885.
The Mite Society of the U. P. Church met Tuesday evening at the residence of Mrs. Wm. Benedict, Miss Emma Campbell doing the honors of the occasion. Lee Warren presided over the meeting, and Miss Lizzie Wilson acted as secretary. Many of the members were absent, but those who were there gave an excellent entertainment. The exercises consisted of declamations, select readings, and music. Those who were to read essays failed to perform. Prof. J. C. Bryan, who joined the society that evening, delivered a declamation which clearly made manifest his ability and excellence as an elocutionist. After the exercises were over, a good “social time” was indulged in. This society is instructive and entertaining, and is beneficial morally and intellectually.
Mr. James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 9, 1885.
City Council Proceedings.
City council met in regular session, on Monday evening, A. D. Prescott in the chair. Councilmen Hill and Thompson were absent.
James Ridenour and E. L. McDowell said parties were in town soliciting trade through circulars, and taking the cream of the jewelry business at this holiday time. These people contributed nothing in support of the treasury, and their competition was ruinous to legitimate trade. Mr. Prescott said there was an occupation tax of $35 a week imposed by city ordinance on persons who sell by sample. He inquired of the city clerk if this tax had been paid. Mr. Benedict said no money had been paid to him by the parties in question. The city marshal was instructed to arrest them for violation of a city ordinance, and carry them before the police magistrate to be dealt with.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
The members of Bennett Chapter, No. 41, R. A. M., are requested to meet at the Masonic hall, this (Wednesday) evening, for the election of officers for the coming year.
JAS. BENEDICT, H. P.
James Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
Bennett Chapter No. 41 elected the following officers last Wednesday night. J. Ridenour, H. P.; O. P. Houghton, K.; L. McLaughlin, S.; J. L. Huey, Treasurer; C. Hutchins, Secretary; W. D. Mowry, C. of H.; J. Benedict, P. S.; George Russel, R. A. C.; J. C. Pickering, 3rd Vail; J. P. Johnson, 2nd Vail; J. T. Shepard, 1st Vail; H. P. Standley, G.
James Benedict, Judge, Third Ward...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 30, 1885.
Mayor’s Election Proclamation.
Recap: Special election called for Monday, February 1, 1886, as Board of Education was requesting bonds for school purposes and to build a new school.
Third ward: James Benedict, M. C. Copple, and John Love as judges; F. Speers and Frank Thompson as clerks.
Schiffbauer and James Benedict...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
F P Schiffbauer and James Benedict to W S Houghton, 14 lots in blk 75, A. C., q-c: $1.00.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, January 6, 1886.
Re Ordinance No. 28. Pertained to additions to the city of Arkansas City (View Hill, Swarts, McLaughlin, Hess) being surveyed and laid off into town lots, streets, and alleys, and annexed to the city.
Lizzie H. Benedict...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
Chas M McIntire et ux to Lizzie H Benedict, lots 19 and 20, blk 157, A C: $125.00.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 10, 1886.
Ordinance No. 29.
To amend Ordinance No. twelve (12) relative to the fire limits.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict visited by brother, Jno. Walton, of Lawrence...
Arkansas City Republican, February 20, 1886.
Jno. Walton, one of the solid men of Lawrence, Kansas, visited our city last week. Mr. Walton has been county commissioner for over 12 years of Douglass County, and is resting from his arduous labors by a short visit to his sister, Mrs. Wm. Benedict, of this place.
James Benedict, member of Bridge committee...
Arkansas City Traveler, February 24, 1886.
REPAIRING THE WEST BRIDGE.
On the adjournment of the council, a citizens’ meeting was held in the same chamber to take immediate steps toward repairing the west bridge. The meeting organized by appointing W. D. Kreamer chairman and James Benedict secretary.
Mr. Hill moved that the chair appoint a committee consisting of members of the city council and of the board of trade to prepare a plan and estimate of the cost of repairing said bridge, which plan and estimate shall be submitted to the council for their approval. The motion being adopted the chair appointed as such committee Messrs. Hight, Hill, and T. H. McLaughlin, with instructions to make a report as soon as possible. Adjourned.
James Benedict, City Clerk, involved in the following ordinances...
[PUBLIC ORDINANCES.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 24, 1886.
No. 30. Ordinance to suppress gaming and gambling houses in the city of Arkansas City.
No. 31. Ordinance to suppress houses of prostitution in the city of Arkansas City.
TOWNSHIP ASSESSORS.
They Meet and Agree Upon a Basis of Valuation for 1886.
Actual Cash Value.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
The assessors of the several townships and cities of Cowley County, Kansas, met at the office of the County Clerk at 10 o’clock a.m. on Monday, March 1st, 1886, for the purpose of fixing a basis of assessment for the real and personal property of said county for the year 1886.
The following assessors were present.
J. W. Browning, Beaver.
J. A. Scott, Bolton.
F. M. Vaughn, Creswell.
S. H. Wells, Dexter.
R. B. Corson, Fairview.
E. Haynes, Harvey.
J. A. Cochran, Liberty.
J. H. Willis, Maple.
A. Hattery, Omnia.
D. S. Sherrard, Pleasant Valley.
C. H. Bing, Richland.
J. E. Gorham, Rock.
W. N. Day, Sheridan.
J. R. Tate, Silver Creek.
H. S. Libby, Spring Creek.
P. F. Haynes, Silver Dale.
H. McKibben, Tisdale.
H. H. Martin, Vernon.
J. C. Roberts, Walnut.
C. J. Phenis, Windsor.
James Benedict, Arkansas City.
J. S. Hunt, Winfield.
Upon motion the meeting organized by electing James Benedict Chairman and J. S. Hunt, Secretary.
Mrs. Lizzie H. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, March 13, 1886.
Mrs. L. H. Benedict has rented her store room to Gilbert & Jenne of Fall City, Nebraska, who will open up a large dry goods establishment.
Wright and Stanford, of Coshocton, Ohio, renting Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s storeroom...
Arkansas City Republican, April 17, 1886.
A New Firm.
Messrs. Wright and Stanford, who came here from Coshocton, Ohio, last week and located, have decided to establish a large furniture store. They have rented Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s storeroom and will open up for business May 1. Mr. Wright and family are stopping at the Monumental Hotel and Mr. Stanford at the residence of Wm. Curtis.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict: ill...
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict is sick this week.
James Benedict: again appointed as City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Wm. Gray was reappointed City Marshal Monday evening last by Mayor Schiffbauer. Johnnie Breene was appointed assistant, and James Benedict City Clerk. The appointments were promptly confirmed by the council.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s: lawn social...
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.
The Y. M. C. A. will give a lawn social at Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s next Monday evening, May 10. Ice cream and cake will be served.
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
The Y. M. C. A. lawn social at Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s last Monday evening was a very enjoyable affair. Mrs. Benedict and the members of the Association entertained the guests handsomely. The proceeds will be used to furnish the hall.
Benedict block: Dr. Morris renting office rooms upstairs...
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
Dr. G. S. Morris has rented commodious office rooms in the upstairs of Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s block.
Benedict block: located on west side of Summit Street between 5th Avenue and Central Ave. Owned by Mrs. Wm. Benedict [Occupied by Wright & Stanford]...
Arkansas City Republican, May 29, 1886.
Opening delayed on account of our Store Room not being completed as soon as we had expected. We have been delayed several days in getting our goods in shape for sale. The basement is now being fitted up and in a few days we will have TWO ROOMS FILLED CHUCK FULL OF FIRST CLASS FURNITURE AND UNDERTAKINGS.
We have just received 3 car-loads of goods, and have three more car-loads on the way which we expect in next week. We will then be prepared to furnish our customers furniture at the very LOWEST PRICES AT EITHER WHOLESALE OR RETAIL.
Will attend funerals with hearse. Call and see us before buying.
On west side of Summit Street, between 5th and Central Avenue, in Mrs. Benedict’s new building, Arkansas City, Kansas. WRIGHT & STANFORD.
Benedict-Shepard block??? Does this indicate that Mrs. Wm. Benedict and Dr. J. T. Shepard joined forces in putting in the new block after fire???...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
An elegant job of painting is that done upon the fronts of the Union block and the Benedict-Shepard block. The work was done by Ferguson & Thomas and is a splendid sample to stand as a monument of what they can do as painters.
James Benedict: jury member, Brubaker case...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 19, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
The jury in the Brubaker case failed to agree and were discharged this morning by Judge Kreamer. Seven were for conviction and five for acquittal. The jury was composed of T. H. McLaughlin, J. F. Hoffman, Chas. Howard, G. Cunningham, W. D. Bishop, J. F. Smith, A. C. Gould, Jas. Benedict, T. B. Oldroyd, Geo. Allen, Dugal Owens, and W. S. Upp. A new trial will be had, commencing next Tuesday. This trial consumed two days and the jury was out overnight.
Mrs. Lizzie Benedict at Geuda for her health...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Mrs. Lizzie Benedict is stopping at Geuda for her health.
Mrs. Lizzie H. Benedict [Mrs. Wm. Benedict]...
Arkansas City Republican, June 26, 1886.
MARRIED. Monday as the hour of 1 o’clock p.m., was struck, Rev. S. B. Fleming performed the marriage ceremony for Edward C. Gage and Miss M. Emma Campbell at the residence of Mrs. L. H. Benedict. The wedding was a quiet one, no invitations having been issued. The contracting parties are well known to the citizens of this community and are highly respected. They will remain at Mrs. Benedict’s residence for the time being. Our friend, Edward, is quite industrious. No sooner was he married than he resumed his labors in the First National Bank. The REPUBLICAN congratulates the new couple and bestows all the well wishes in its power upon them.
James Benedict, city clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
RECAP OF MAYOR’S ELECTION PROCLAMATION FOR KANSAS CITY AND PAN-HANDLE RAILROAD COMPANY...PRESENTED BY HARRY P. FARRAR, A RESIDENT TAXPAYER OF ARKANSAS CITY...ASKING FOR BONDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,000. PROCLAMATION ISSUED JULY 10, 1886. SIGNED BY F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, MAYOR; AND A. D. PRESCOTT, C. T. THURSTON, C. G. THOMPSON, JAMES HILL, A. A. DAVIS, MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARKANSAS CITY. ATTESTED BY JAMES BENEDICT, CITY CLERK.
ELECTION TO TAKE PLACE WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1886.
Arkansas City Republican, July 10, 1886.
RECAP OF MAYOR’S ELECTION PROCLAMATION...PETITION PRESENTED BY JAMES L. HUEY, RESIDENT TAXPAYER OF ARKANSAS CITY, FOR PROPOSITION TO VOTE STOCK FOR THE GEUDA SPRINGS, CALDWELL & WESTERN RAILROAD COMPANY IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,500...SIGNED BY MAYOR F. P. SCHIFFBAUER; AND A. D. PRESCOTT, C. T. THURSTON, C. G. THOMPSON, JAMES HILL, AND O. INGERSOLL, MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL; ATTESTED TO BY JAMES BENEDICT, CITY CLERK.
ELECTION TO TAKE PLACE WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11, 1886.
Mrs. L. H. Benedict’s Block...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 17, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Dr. G. S. Morris has moved his office to rooms in Mrs. L. H. Benedict’s block. J. L. Howard, real estate agent, has office rooms with him.
Mrs. L. H. Benedict rents cottage at Geuda...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 17, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Mrs. L. H. Benedict has rented a cottage at Geuda and is there now partaking of the water of the Springs for her health.
James Benedict: now handling lightning rods...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 7, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
The school board met last evening and let the contract for putting lightening rods on the 4th ward school building to Jas. Benedict at 28 cents per foot with ornaments. It was also decided to make necessary repairs to the building in the first ward. A fence has been placed around the 4th ward property and the grounds are to be set in trees. The seats for the new school building are to be here in September.
Benedict Block: Wright & Stanford, furniture, coffins, etc....
Arkansas City Republican, August 14, 1886.
WRIGHT & STANFORD, have now on hand the nicest line of BED ROOM SETS ever brought to Arkansas City and at prices to SUIT EVERYBODY. Also a fine display of PARLOR FURNITURE, EASY CHAIRS, LOUNGES, BOOK CASES, etc. In fact, anything you want in the way of Furniture. We also keep constantly on hand all kinds of COFFINS AND BURIAL CASES, In Wood, Cloth, or Metallic. Parties wanting the services of an undertaker during the night or Sundays, will please call at the residence of either of the undersigned.
WRIGHT & STANFORD, Benedict Block, Summit Street, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 25, 1886.
WRIGHT & STANFORD, have now on hand the nicest line of BED-ROOM SETS, ever brought to Arkansas City, and at prices to suit everybody. Also a fine display of PARLOR FURNITURE, Easy Chairs, Lounges, Book Cases, etc.; in fact anything you want in the way of Furniture. Also keep all kinds of COFFINS AND BURIAL CASES, IN WOOD, CLOTH, OR METALLIC. Parties wanting the service of an undertaker during the night or Sundays will please call at either of the undersigned.
WRIGHT & STANFORD.
Benedict Block, Summit Street, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Complaints re James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
There is considerable kicking about registering. The city clerk advertised that the registration books would be open until last Saturday night to receive names of voters. According to the law the books remain open until ten days before the election occurs. They closed them last Friday night. Many voters were waiting until Saturday to register, as the afternoon of that day was the only time they could spare. When they came to register, City Clerk Benedict would not let them. Many think it is a Democratic dodge to defeat the will of a majority of the voters.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict rents portion of upstairs in her building to I. O. O. F....
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
The I. O. O. F. organization of this city have rented a portion of the upstairs of Mrs. Wm. Benedict’s building and will fit it up as a lodge room.
James Benedict, city clerk...
[HELPING THE POOR IN ARKANSAS CITY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1886.
DESTITUTION IN THE CITY.
A Method Suggested for Meeting the Pressing Want.
The inclement season is upon us, and our city officers tell of severe suffering already existing in our midst. Thousands of men who have been working on the Southern Kansas grade in the Territory, many of them accompanied by their families, will have to find shelter and other employment as the various contracts give out, and already a number have come in through sickness or other causes. These people can find no vacant tenement to occupy, and some of them are entirely without means. Their resort is to the city for aid, and no funds are provided for their relief. The only resort is to send them to the county poor house, which is a degrading way of treating indigent persons who are willing to work for their own support.
Last winter the attention of the council was occupied at every session in auditing bills for coal and other necessaries furnished to relieve pressing and immediate want. The mayor would explain the urgency of the case; some widow with a cold hearth and empty cupboard and her children crying for bread. Or the husband and father may be sick, and medical attendance and the care of nurse are needed. Mayor Schiffbauer would follow up his statement with the declaration, “When a mother comes to me with the story that her babies are suffering for fuel and food, I haven’t the heart to refuse her, and if the council will not pay the bill, I will.” Sometimes our city fathers felt themselves constrained to disallow these bills, and the city almoner paid them from his own pocket. Mayor Schiffbauer says his charity cost him $300 last winter, and he will regard himself as fortunate (or obdurate) if he gets through the present winter with no greater outlay.
In talking this matter over a day or two ago with City Clerk Benedict, and the marshal with his assistant, Frank Thompson, they urged the necessity of establishing a city hospital where the sick can be cared for at less cost than attends our present want of system. They mentioned the case of McGibbon, a grader now sick and on the hands of the city, the bill for whose care amounts to $100. Another indigent patient, named Shoal, who was boarded and nursed at the Central Avenue Hotel, incurred a public expense of $150. A Mexican died at the Leland Hotel some time ago, who was long under the care of the doctor, and the bill presented to the council for this care was $80. These bills are referred to the appropriate committees, they come up again to be scaled down, they are then approved and sent to the county commissioners for their consideration. Yet costly as this business is, the beneficiaries receive but perfunctory and inadequate care, and much suffering is endured which might be avoided.
In another column the sad story is told of a poor wretched woman with two helpless babes taking refuge in a cellar, and dying unattended at a time of extreme peril, leaving a new born babe survivor. Such a terrible reproach to the city, and yet there are hundreds of kind hearted ladies in our community who would cheerfully have administered to her wants, if they had only known of the destitution of their friendless sister. There is no need for such want where willing hands are ready to afford relief, and it is a duty incumbent on all alike to see that such a tragedy is not repeated.
Destitution in our city is likely to be severe and widespread this winter, and now is the time for adequate provision to be made to meet it. It is not fair to cast the burden on the city officers, this is a service in which all should bear a part. The ladies of the various aid societies in our city are assiduous in hunting up cases of destitution, and are equally prompt in supplying aid. But their machinery is ineffective for dealing with distress on a large scale, and they have not the means at hand to extend charity to any large amount. They need the cooperation of their husbands and businessmen generally, who can comprehend the nature and extent of the exigency they have before them, and who are able to provide the means to deal with it effectively.
A lady correspondent makes this useful suggestion: “In my family enough old garments could be gathered up to clothe two or three persons comfortably, and I am sure that in hundreds of other households as much serviceable clothing could be gathered. My idea is to engage some storeroom where these supplies could be received, and invite their donation through the pulpit and the city press. I believe there are charitable ladies enough in this city willing to devote a portion of their time to the custody of these goods and to there distribution to the suffering and needy. No expense need attend this charitable work, and with the use of proper business methods, it might be made to work a great deal of good.”
The suffering likely to be endured in this city the present winter from poverty and sickness we have heard discussed in several households; and we trust that the energy and business ability of our wives and mothers will be applied to the useful and urgent work that lies before them.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1886.
City Ordinance No. 27.
At the request of City Clerk Benedict and of Mr. Quigley, president of the Arkansas City Water Co., we publish a second time city ordinance No. 27, adopted just one year ago, granting the franchise to the Inter-State Gas Co., of St. Louis, to build a system of water works in this city. The few copies of the TRAVELER containing this ordinance that were left over were soon disposed of, and since then there have been frequent calls for the ordinance. Both gentlemen named are often asked by parties in other cities for a copy of the ordinance, which request they are unable to comply with. The copy furnished by the city clerk for republication is so thumbed and worn with constant use, that in places it is hardly legible. Water consumers will be interested in refreshing their memories with the conditions imposed on the city and water company by this municipal law, and hence we consider that the space it occupies in our columns today is by no means misapplied.
James Benedict, secretary, Security Investment Company...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 25, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
The Security Investment Company is a new real estate firm with office quarters in the room at the rear of No. 33 drug store. The company is composed of F. P. Schiffbauer, president; B. F. Childs, vice-president; H. D. Kellogg, treasurer; James Benedict, secretary; and C. G. Thompson. The capital stock is $25,000.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 29, 1886.
The Security Investment Co., chartered under the state laws, has commenced business in this city. Its office is on Fifth Avenue, in the rear of Kellogg & Chapel’s drug store. Following are the directors: C. G. Thompson, James Benedict, H. D. Kellogg, B. F. Childs, and Frank P. Schiffbauer. They loan money, buy securities, deal in real estate, and take life and fire insurance. The officers and directors are well known in our midst, have ripe business experience, and are sure to win success.
James Benedict, City Clerk...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 26, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
City Clerk Benedict has received orders to register the ladies of Arkansas City. They began to come in after dinner; Mrs. T. V. McConn was the first to avail herself of the privilege in this city.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 26, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Several ladies applied to City Clerk Benedict yesterday to register in order that they might vote at the coming spring election. As Mr. Benedict claimed the law had not been published, he did not register their names. In nearly all the cities in the state we see the ladies have begun to register.
Mrs. Wm. Benedict...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 12, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Degree of Honor. A. O. U. W. No. 17 meets on the second and fourth Monday evening of each month. The following are the officers.
P. C. of H.: J. W. Sparks.
Lady of H.: Mrs. M. A. Sparks.
Rec.: T. Kitchen.
C. of C.: Mrs. A. A. Davis.
Financier: Mrs. T. Kitchen.
Receiver: Mrs. R. Hubbard.
Sister Usher: Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
J. W.: Mrs. Joseph Garris.
O. W.: A. A. Davis.
All Brothers and Sisters of the order invited.
James Benedict???...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 19, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Lot 8 in block 75 was sold to Messrs. Coleman and Benedict today for $1,500.
ARKANSAS CITY DIRECTORY 1893.
James Benedict...
BOARD OF EDUCATION.
FIRST WARD: C. C. Sollitt and L. D. Leasure.
SECOND WARD: H. T. Roberts and R. J. Rankin.
THIRD WARD: James Benedict and E. C. Gage.
FOURTH WARD: L. E. Woodin and Alex Wilson.
SECRET SOCIETIES.
A. F. & A. M.
CRESCENT LODGE No. 133.—Meets at Masonic Hall, Opera House block, corner East Fifth Avenue and B Street, first and third Wednesday evenings; James Benedict, secretary; office 123 South Summit Street.
Officers Crescent Lodge No. 133, A. F. & A. M.—T. B. Oldroyd, W. M.; James Benedict,
secretary; Chas. Howard, treasurer.
BENNETT CHAPTER No. 41, R. A. M.—Meets in Masonic Hall second and fourth Wednesday evenings of each month. M. M. Rhodes, H. P.; James Benedict, secretary; Chas. Hutchins, treasurer.
DIRECTORY.
Benedict, Albert, clks for Behrend, r 215 s 1st st.
Benedict, H. M., student, r 217 s B st.
Benedict, James, loan and insurance agt, 123 s Summit st., r 215 s 1st st.
Insurance.
Benedict, James, 123 s Summit st.
ARKANSAS CITY RIVERVIEW CEMETERY.
Benedict, Albert M., birth date 03-21-1874, space 3, lot 92, Block E, Old Addition.
Benedict, Alta I., birth date 1879, space 1, lot 92, Block E, Old Addition.
Benedict, Frankie, born 11-1869, space 3, lot 28, Block 2, West Addition.
Benedict, James V., birth date 06-08-1834, space 7, lot 28, Block 2, West Addition.
Benedict, Walter B., birth date 10-05-1872, space 3, lot 28, Block 2, West Addition.
Benedict, William F., born 1822, space 7, lot 4, Block J, Old Addition.
ARKANSAS CITY RIVERVIEW CEMETERY.
Curtis, William H., born 1851, space 3, lot 4, Block J, Old Addition.
McNaughton, May B., born 1863, space 1, lot 4, Block J, Old Addition.
McNaughton, Robert B., born 1869, space 7, lot 3, Block J, Old Addition.
1872.
W. F. Benedict: councilman in 1872...
Arkansas City Traveler, Thursday, June 16, 1921.
ARKANSAS CITY IN 1872
An Interesting Record of the Old Time City Government.
Capt. M. N. Sinnott, city clerk, has dug up a very interesting record of city affairs which dates back many years, at the beginning of the city administration of the now famous Arkansas City, Kansas, and which is being kept for future use in the matter of looking up affairs that may be needed for various purposes.
This book dates back to the beginning of time in this city, which was in the year 1872. The record shows that the city was incorporated as a city of the third class on June 10, 1872; and the papers were signed by W. P. Campbell, judge of the 13th judicial district of Kansas. The first election held for the naming of city officials was on July first of that year. The canvass of the vote showed the following:
1872:
Mayor, A. D. Keith, 39 votes.
Police Judge, Amos Walton, 74 votes.
Councilmen, W. F. Benedict, I. S. Mitchell, Henry Endicott, T. H. McLaughlin, and G. H. McIntire.
(The latter is still here and is a justice of the peace.)
C. R. Sipes was appointed first city treasurer.
L. B. Carrier was the first city marshal.
The first meeting of the council was held on July 5, 1872. [Then the record goes on down the years of time and to the year 1908.]
A look through the book shows many changes and there are now but a few of the old timers, who were prominent in city affairs many years ago, here at the present time.
On one of the leaves of the book and dated away back in the 1880s, is the notation, “City marshal requested to notify the Indians not to shoot arrows on the main street of the town.” Indians and buffalo were very prominent here at that time.
Another interesting feature of the former city government noted in this book is the fact that the Arkansas river was at one time considered navigable here. And it was navigable too, it is said, the same as it is today, though today the water in the river stands 8 feet above the low water mark.
This notation appears on the record dated August 9, 1875:
“Petition congress to make appropriation to make the Arkansas river navigable. Town company to deed 150 lots to the A. C. Navigation Co. to aid in purchase of boat to cost not less than $2,000 to navigate the Arkansas river.”
Another notation that appears in the book:
“May 25, 1877: to appropriate $150 to establish a ferry across the Arkansas river west of the town.”
There are many other just as interesting matters in connection with the former city affairs, as those given above, recorded in the old book, and the Traveler will some time in the near future give another chapter of the records in this regard.
