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Bland School
From notes made by Lois M. Hinsey some years ago...
Bland School was in District 69, Bolton township, and was closed 1952.
The first Bland Schoolhouse was built in 1872. The Bland Schoolhouse in Bolton Township and the Mercer Schoolhouse in Creswell Township, which was close to the Bland Schoolhouse, were the first ones built in that part of Cowley County.
The Bland Schoolhouse was located on the northwest quarter of Section 11, Township 35, Range 3 East. It was two and one-half miles west and one-half mile south of old U.S. Highway 77, southwest of Arkansas City.
The original school building was moved to the J. A. Ramsey claim in the Cherokee Strip just south of the State line. It was used for many years for storage.
Bland School was named for Mr. A. P. Bland, who lived on a farm near the school.
The first teacher of the school was Miss Landis, who had come to Kansas for a visit and remained to teach for $25.00 a month. J. O. Wilkinson taught in 1879.
In 1894 the second Bland Schoolhouse (a new and larger building) was erected. It was still standing in 1980 according to the late Mrs. Hinsey.
Abby Ramsey Van Pelt attended school in the 1894 schoolhouse. She recalled that the large room held twenty to twenty-five students. There were small desks in front for the younger children; the larger desks were at the back of the room. There were blackboards on all sides and two long benches across the front near the teacher’s desk: used when the classes held recitations. There were two halls (or cloak rooms): one at each side of the room. One was used by the boys; and one was used by the girls. In these areas the children hung up their wraps and left their lunch pails.
School started at 9:00 a.m. and was dismissed at 4:00 p.m. Each day was opened with Prayer and Bible reading and the salute to the American flag. Sometimes singing took place.
Morning studies included reading, writing, physiology, and arithmetic. Afternoon sessions included grammar, history, geography, and spelling.
During the year many different programs were held at the school such as box suppers or pie suppers, and the children would usually give a program consisting of music and readings. At Christmas time there was a big tree decorated with popcorn and cranberries strung on a string as well as paper chains of many colors.
On the last day of school, always taking place at the end of March, a big dinner took place. Parents brought full baskets of food for this event.
The Bland school building, built in 1894, and still standing in 1980, was used for a Community Hall.
[From the following newspaper files, I found that some of the Hinsey work was wrong!]
For instance, Mercer Schoolhouse was in West Bolton Township rather than in Creswell Township.
FROM NEWSPAPER FILES.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1876.
Steamboat Meetings!
Meetings will be held at the schoolhouses in the several school districts, to discuss the question of steamboat navigation on the Arkansas River, as follows:
At Salt City Schoolhouse, Parker’s Schoolhouse, South Bend Schoolhouse, Bland’s Schoolhouse, Coburn’s Schoolhouse, Wednesday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m.
At Theaker’s Schoolhouse, Hunt’s Schoolhouse, Holland’s Schoolhouse, Spring Side Schoolhouse, Thomasville Schoolhouse, Maple City Schoolhouse, and the store at Silverdale, Thursday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m.
Speakers will be in attendance, and all are requested to be present and express their views.
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1876.
Read the appointments of the Republican nominees in this county. They will speak at the places and times appointed. The township Republican committees will please make the necessary arrangements and secure as large a turnout as possible in their respective townships.
APPOINTMENTS:
The Republican candidates, with other speakers, will address the people of Cowley County on the issues of the day at the following mentioned time and places:
Bolton, Thurs., Nov. 2nd, at Bland’s schoolhouse, 2 p.m.
By order of the Republican County Central Committee.
S. M. JARVIS, Chairman.
CHAS. H. EAGIN, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 1, 1876.
MEETING at Bland’s schoolhouse, Nov. 4th at three o’clock p.m., to nominate Township officers.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 1, 1876.
CAPT. McDERMOTT made us a call last Monday. He spoke at Bland’s schoolhouse in the evening to a good audience. Capt. McDermott is regarded as one of the leading lawyers of the county, and is acknowledged as one of the best speakers. When you see his name on the Republican ticket as a candidate for County Attorney, remember him.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 14, 1877.
There will be a dance at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday, February 22nd. All are invited.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 21, 1877.
The dance at Bland’s schoolhouse is to be on Friday, the 23rd, instead of the 22nd, as announced last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1877.
A meeting of the Union Stock Protective Association will be held at Bland’s schoolhouse next Saturday evening, at 7 o’clock, April 21st. All members are requested to be present. By order of R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Winfield Courier, May 10, 1877.
RAILROAD MEETINGS.
There will be public meetings held at 7 o’clock p.m. of the following days at the places named for the purpose of discussing the question of voting aid to the Memphis, Parsons & Ellsworth, Western Branch Railroad. Speakers will be in attendance. Full meetings are expected.
[Listing townships/schoolhouses only. Dates shown start with May 14, 1877, and end with May 21, 1877. MAW]
BOLTON: Theaker, Bland’s, and Salt City schoolhouses.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 16, 1877.
R. R. MEETING IN BOLTON.
Meetings will be held at Bland’s schoolhouse next Wednesday evening, and at Theaker’s schoolhouse Friday, May 25th, to engage in free discussion over the railway interests of Bolton Township.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 23, 1877.
JAMES KELLY and MR. BUCKMAN, of Winfield, called on us last week. They came down to talk to the people of Bolton Township on the Parsons railway, and spoke at Theaker’s schoolhouse Thursday evening. They abandoned the meeting at Bland’s on Friday evening on account of the rain.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 13, 1877.
There will be a meeting of Bolton Township at Bland’s schoolhouse, on Saturday evening, June 16th, for the purpose of making arrangements for a grand celebration on July 4th. All are invited.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 12, 1877.
We understand the primary to elect delegates in Bolton Township will be held at Bland’s schoolhouse.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 3, 1877.
TEACHERS.
Miss Pickett is to teach at Bland’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 10, 1877.
BOLTON TOWNSHIP, OCT. 8, 1877.
Mr. C. M. Scott:
DEAR SIR: Please publish a meeting, irrespective of party, will be held at the Turner schoolhouse (or better known as the Bland), Saturday, Oct. 13th, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of nominating township officers for the ensuing year. J. M. SAMPLE, Trustee.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 24, 1877.
The meeting in Bolton Township, at Bland’s schoolhouse, was attended by Hon. C. R. Mitchell, Capt. Hunt, M. G. Troup, and A. W. Berkey—all speakers. The audience failed to come.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1877.
A social dance was held at Bland’s schoolhouse last Friday evening. A club will be formed this winter for a general good time.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 28, 1877.
S. P. U. The members of the Stock Protection Union are requested to meet at Bland’s schoolhouse Thursday evening, Dec. 6th.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 26, 1877.
There will be a dance at the Bland schoolhouse on Monday night, December 31, 1877.
All are invited.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 2, 1878.
From Bolton Township.
BOLTON, Dec. 24, 1877.
Friend Scott:
I thought I would drop you a few lines and let you know how we are getting along in Bolton. We are having a lively time just now, a wedding and a new school district this week. We are cutting off a mile wide from 96 and one mile from the Bland district, also a piece from 36. We Democrats have been misused by the colored people and the low Republicans of this district. They are all the time wanting to vote bonds for a schoolhouse and have schools.
I wish we had cut the district in two long ago and got out of trouble. We have got the petition signed by nearly half of the citizens of said new district, and don’t you think Guthrie, Pepper, and McGinnis refused to sign, although our boundary lines will take them into the new district. They say they want a school, and of course we don’t believe in schools, so they object to the new district. But never mind if Story is a Democrat, he will set us off if we don’t get but few signers. Pepper says he has got up a remonstrance against it, but if Story is all right, he will do the fair thing with us. I was up in 36 today and they are awful mad about the new district, and talk of remonstrating against it.
“How I do wish people would mind their own business,” and there is Lish Bowers says he won’t stand it either, and we didn’t intend running the new district nearer than one-fourth of a mile of his schoolhouse. Oh, dear! If people would only mind their business; but if Story is a Democrat, we are all right.
Now, friend Scott, if you will publish this and let the people know we are alive and striving, I will write you again when we get our district located.
CITIZEN OF THE NEW DISTRICT.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 2, 1878.
NEW YEAR’S EVE was celebrated at Bland’s schoolhouse by a general good time. Enough were present to make a lively company without crowding the house, and there was room for all the gents’ number fourteens without getting them tangled. Two violins, a banjo, a flute, a fife, and an accordion were the instrumental pieces, and when all broke out at once, it roused the bones of even the oldest. All went in for fun, and you can bet they had it.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1878.
S. P. U. Members of the Stock Protective Union are requested to meet at Bland’s schoolhouse next Saturday evening, at early candle lighting, on very particular business.
RUDOLPH HOFFMASTER, Captain.
MEETING TO ESTABLISH A CEMETERY FOR BOLTON TOWNSHIP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 6, 1878.
BOLTON, January 26, 1878.
There will be a meeting held at the Bland schoolhouse February 9th, at 1 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of selecting a cemetery for Bolton Township, and also to ascertain the people’s opinion concerning the bridge. J. M. SAMPLE, Trustee.
[REPORT FROM BOLTON TOWNSHIP: J. C. TOPLIFF, SECRETARY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 13, 1878.
BOLTON, Feb. 9, 1878.
A meeting was called by J. M. Sample, Trustee, to meet at the Bland schoolhouse at one o’clock today, to take some action in regard to purchasing a site for a cemetery, to be owned by the township. Notwithstanding the weather was very stormy, quite a large number from middle Bolton and west Bolton turned out.
J. M. Sample was elected Chairman, and James C. Topliff, Secretary of the meeting. It was the opinion of all present that the township needed a cemetery of not less than five acres, and that the same be purchased if possible. If a location be decided on and the parties owning the land would not sell at a fair price, to condemn the land according to law, and go ahead and improve the place. Quite a number of locations were suggested and voted on, but all were defeated, and it was finally left to the Township Board to select a site as soon as possible, of not less than five acres, and as near the center of the township as possible. Survey of the ground into lots, which are to be numbered, and given to the different residents of this township in rotation, as called for. Also to have the same all broken out the coming spring. It is understood that the committee members are to look up a site this coming week.
After the cemetery matter was disposed of, the bridge question was brought up before the meeting, and nearly everyone had something to say in its favor. It was the opinion of all present that if we did not have a bridge soon, many would leave the township. Mr. Pepper asked that a vote be taken in regard to voting aid to build a new bridge and repairing the old one south of Arkansas City, which was done, and the same was carried unanimously. They all agreed to turn out on election day and see that all their neighbors went to the polls to vote.
The Board then met together, and in response to petitions from 114 of the residents and tax payers, ordered that an election be held at the usual voting precincts on Saturday, the 9th day of March next. J. C. TOPLIFF, Secretary.
Excerpt...
[COMMUNICATION FROM “C. C. H.”—BOLTON TOWNSHIP.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 13, 1878.
EAST BOLTON, March 11, 1878.
School opened again in the Bland schoolhouse last Monday. Miss Dora Winslow succeeds Miss Mary Pickett as preceptress this term.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 27, 1878.
The members of the Stock Protective Union will meet at Bland’s schoolhouse one week from next Saturday.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 8, 1878.
The members of the Bolton Stock Protective Union will meet at the Bland schoolhouse, next Wednesday, May 15. A full attendance is desired.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 10, 1878.
THE S. P. U.’s will meet at the Bland schoolhouse next Saturday night. Every member is requested to be present as there is business of more than usual importance to be transacted.
The bloodhounds for this organization will soon be here, and then we advise the gentlemanly horse thieves to take the other road in passing through this section, as our friends in Bolton mean business. R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 17, 1878.
BOLTON TOWNSHIP, JULY 14, 1878.
At a meeting held at the Bland schoolhouse, July 13, for the purpose of making arrangements with D. B. Hartsock to carry our produce down the Arkansas River to Little Rock, Capt. R. Hoffmaster was called to the chair, and A. H. Buckwalter was chosen Secretary.
On motion the following six men were appointed to solicit subscriptions in aiding Mr. Hartsock in building a boat: E. Bowen, Lyman Herrick, G. O. Herbert, W. Chambers, Frank Lorry, and Wm. Trimble. Moved and seconded that the proceedings of this meeting be published in the TRAVELER. R. HOFFMASTER, Chairman.
A. H. BUCKWALTER, Secretary.
In connection with the above, we will state that Mr. Hartsock’s plan is to raise money on the wheat solicited from the farmers, and then build or purchase a steamboat at Little Rock, or some other river town where boat building is carried on. Mr. Hartsock is a river man of large experience, having spent most of his life on the water, and if successful in raising the wheat, he will put a boat on this river as soon as one can be built. It will pay our farmers to contribute liberally to this enterprise, as they can more than save the amount of their donations in the price they will get for their grain shipped south. As we said last week, the surest means of success is in unity of action, and the farmers cannot do better than to join in advancing this project. Mr. Hartsock is a thoroughly reliable, honest, and upright man, and has only taken hold of this at the earnest solicitation of numerous friends in Bolton Township, who are alive to the necessity of a water outlet for their grain, and he proves his confidence in the practicability of the scheme from the fact that he puts all his own wheat (the product of a hundred acres) in with the rest.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 4, 1878.
Notice.
There will be a meeting of the Township Board of Bolton Township at the Bland schoolhouse, on the second Thursday in September, A. D., 1878, at 10 o’clock a.m., for the purpose of settling with the road overseers of said township, and attending to such other business as the law requires. J. M. SAMPLE, Trustee.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 2, 1878.
There will be a meeting of the S. P. U. association of Bolton Township, at Bland’s schoolhouse, Saturday evening, at 7 o’clock. Everybody invited to attend. Matters of interest to be looked after. R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 24, 1878.
There will be a meeting at the Bland schoolhouse of the voters of Bolton Township on Saturday, October 26, at 6 p.m., for the purpose of nominating township officers irrespective of party. J. M. SAMPLE, F. LORRY.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1878.
A Republican meeting will be held at Bland’s schoolhouse on this Wednesday evening. Hon. W. P. Hackney and E. S. Torrance will address the people. Everybody invited, especially Greenbackers. Both gentlemen are good speakers and there will be fun aboard when Bill Hackney gets after them.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 11, 1878.
School Report.
District 53, Bolton Township, for the month ending Dec. 6th, 1878.
Mary Lorry, 86; Annie Coulter, 95; Martin Coulter, 95; Frank Bland, 90; Ruth Voris, 90; Rose Sample, 94; Hattie Rice, 92; Alvin Voris, 94; Hannah Lorry, 90; Willie Voris, 90; Maggie Sample, 93; David Bristow, 91; Frank Lorry, 94; Eddie Voris, 89; Lulu Bland, 91; Clara Lorry, 89; Carrie Rice, 89; Fred Lorry, 93; Mamie Schnee, 83; Willie Schnee, 80; Moses Coulter, 91; James Michaels, 87; Stevie Rice, 75.
The following pupils were perfect in attendance for the past month: Alvin Voris, Edwin Voris, Mamie Schnee, Fred Lorry, Willie Schnee, Annie Coulter, and Moses Coulter.
L. E. NORTON, Teacher.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 18, 1878.
Railroad Meetings.
There will be railroad meetings at the following places for the purpose of talking up the A., T. & S. F. railroad bonds.
South Bend schoolhouse, Pleasant Valley township, Saturday, Dec. 21st, at 7 p.m.
Theaker schoolhouse, Bolton township, Monday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m.
Bland schoolhouse, Bolton township, Monday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m.
Spring Side schoolhouse, Bolton township, Monday, Dec. 23, at 7 p.m.
Parker schoolhouse, Cresswell township, Saturday, Dec. 21, at 7 p.m.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 19, 1879.
School Report.
District 53, Bolton Township, for the month ending January 3rd, 1879.
Lester Burnett, 97; Mary Lorry, 89; Annie Coulter, 97; Martin Coulter, 95; Frank Bland, 95; Ruth Voris, 94; Rose Sample, 96; Hattie Rice, 96; Alvin Voris, 96; Hannah Lorry, 94; Willie Voris, 93; Maggie Sample, 94; David Bristow, 95; Frank Lorry, 96; Eddie Voris, 91; Lulu Bland, 94; Clara Lorry, 92; Carrie Rice, 95; Fred Lorry, 95; Mamie Schnee, 93; Willie Schnee, 95; Moses Coulter, 95; James Michael, 92; Stevie Rice, 94; Clyde Akers, 91; Earnest Frost, 89. L. E. NORTON, Teacher.
Note: Frank and Lulu Bland attended this school.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 19, 1879.
School Report.
The following is the standing, by examination, of the pupils of School District No. 53, for the term ending February 6th, 1879.
LISTING NAMES ONLY.
Maggie Sample, Rose Sample, Lester Burnett, Hannah Lorry, Annie Coulter, Lulu Bland, George Coulter, Frank Lorry, Frank Bland, Fred Lorry, Mamie Schnee, David Bristow, Mary Lorry, Martin Coulter, Clara Lorry, Carrie Rice. L. E. NORTON, Teacher.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1879.
There will be a meeting of the S. P. U.’s at Bland’s School House on Saturday evening, April 19th, at early candlelight.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 21, 1879.
The people over in Bolton held a picnic in Moore’s grove last Saturday afternoon. In the evening a dance took place at the Bland Schoolhouse and everything passed off lovely.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1879.
All members of Co. C. (Bolton Militia), are requested to meet at the Bland Schoolhouse on Saturday, May 31st, at 2 o’clock for the purpose of signing the muster rolls.
R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1879.
NAMES OF PUPILS, DISTRICT 53, TEACHER: L. E. NORTON.
Maggie Sample, Rose Sample, Annie Coulter, Clara Lorry, George Hunt, Frank Lorry, Frank Bland, Ruth Voris, Fred Lorry, Mamie Schnee, Marion Hunt, Mary Lorry, Clyde Akers.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 25, 1879.
There will be a meeting of the people at Bolton, at Bland’s Schoolhouse, Saturday night, to discuss bridge matters.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 17, 1879.
S. P. U.’S Take Notice.
There will be a meeting of the Stock Protective Union, next Friday night, at the Bland school house, Bolton township. Every member is requested to be present as business of great importance is to be transacted. Don’t fail to come out, men. We have work to do.
R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1879.
ATTENTION VOTERS. There will be a meeting at the Bland school house on Thursday evening at 6 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of considering the interest of Bolton in regard to bridge and other matters. Turn out. A CITIZEN.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 10, 1879.
There will be a meeting of the Bolton militia company at Bland’s school house on Friday evening for the purpose of electing officers and completing the muster roll which must be done before arms can be drawn. R. HOFFMASTER, Lieutenant Commanding.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 24, 1879.
There will be a meeting at the Bland schoolhouse on Friday night, December 26th, 1879, for the purpose of discussing the questions of the bridge and cattle drive. All are expected to be present. J. M. SAMPLE, Trustee.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1880.
Notice is hereby given to the citizens of Bolton Township that there will be a meeting held at the Bland schoolhouse on Saturday, January 31st, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of nominating township officers for the ensuing year.
JAMES M. SAMPLE, Trustee of Bolton Township.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 4, 1880.
The Stock Protective Union of Bolton Township will meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Wednesday night, February 4th, at early candle light. By order of R. HOFFMASTER.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 24, 1880. Editorial Page.
ANNUAL LOVE FEAST.
The following report of the Annual Love Feast of some of the Boltonites has found its way to the TRAVELER. We think it was written by some Peace of a Justice, as the first line gives evidence of legal lore.
“Know all men by these presents: Whereas, on the 14th day of February last, the citizens of Bolton Township met in mass, at the Bland schoolhouse in the open air, for the purpose of reviewing their past lives and preparing for the future. So after bustling around a while, W. C. Skinner was chosen chairman of the meeting. The chair arose and announced that the proceedings must be opened with prayer. So S. H. Deweese with the assistance of W. Mercer implored divine forgiveness for the folly of those who had spent many months in molding paper wads to be fired at the cattle drive and the wickedness of others who had buried, on the “trail,” the dreadful torpedoes of sulphur and snuff to hurl into the clouds the last hope of long horns. But Hank Hollowell who sat near, with an ear that lopped like a limp leaf of Kraut, declared that the prayer did not go as high as the third plank on the fence.
“After reading the statute by John Linton, the Chair announced a recess of fifteen minutes. Whistling by Frank Lorry; tune Patsy won’t you drink some. The Chair then called the meeting from refreshments to labor.
“Now the various characters arose into prominence. The old Polar Bear, James McGuire, with that same old bed blanket on old Bob, rode up. Then came A. P. Lorry leading brother Frank while they stepped to the marshal music of old hundred. In fact, the drill was handsome.
“George Hagar made a speech on the wreck of man. Frank Reed, on the smart young man. G. Schnee presented facts to prove that the ground hog should be captured and cut into pork for spoiling a great deal of fine weather.
“Frank Lorry opened an argument in favor of the self made man, but his remarks were short, as the meeting gave him a unanimous vote for having more self-made worthlessness in one body than had ever before been found in Bolton Township.
“The chair announced that the hour had arrived for preparing ballots to elect some person of the township to the honorable position of attending to other people’s business. This called out a full and harmonious vote without distinction of race, color, or previous condition, and the judges of election, appointed and sworn in due form of law, consisting of Uncle Berry Banks and Peter Andrews, proceeded to count the ballots, resulting as follows: Frank Lorry received 69 votes, S. H. Deweese 19 votes, scattering 3 votes. The chair arose and amid the stillness of death announced that Lieut. Lorry having received a majority of the votes cast was duly elected.
“Hick Deweese now arose with cussedness in his eye, and charged the judges of election with fraud and favor; they grew pale as the speaker, warm with the smart of disappointment, accused them of stuffing the box in favor of another.
“John Brown called, order, and said that a blind man could see that the best thing to do was to adjourn. So the Chair said the meeting was adjourned to meet St. Valentine one year from that date. “EAST BOLTON.”
Arkansas City Traveler, July 7, 1880.
BOLTON RANGERS. All members of this military company are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse one week from next Saturday, July 17, at 2 p.m., without fail. There is considerable business of utmost importance to transact. It is the intention to draw new arms for the company, also new uniforms. Don’t fail to be on hand.
R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
JOHN LEWIS, Lieutenant.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 21, 1880.
BOLTON RANGERS. Take notice that a meeting for drill will be held on Saturday, July 31, at 3 p.m., in the Bland schoolhouse. R. HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 21, 1880.
S. P. U. A meeting of the stock protective union will be held at early candle-light on Saturday, July 31, in the Bland schoolhouse. By order of R. HOFFMASTER.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 21, 1880.
The Republicans of Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday, July 29, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of electing three delegates and three alternates to the county convention to be held at Winfield July 31; also to elect a township chairman. Republicans, remember the day and the hour, and turn out.
J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 28, 1880.
The Garfield and Arthur club of Bolton Township meets regularly every Saturday evening at the Bland schoolhouse.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1880.
The Republicans of Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse tomorrow evening at 7 o’clock, to organize a Garfield club. Let there be a full turn-out.
J. D. GUTHRIE.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880.
Last Thursday night a Garfield and Arthur club was organized at the Bland schoolhouse with D. P. Marshall, chairman, and August Lorry, secretary. The club will meet at the same place tomorrow evening and complete the organization. Speakers will be in attendance, and all Republicans are expected to be on hand.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 15, 1880.
The Garfield and Arthur club of Bolton Township meets every second and fourth Thursday of each month, at the Bland schoolhouse. H. S. Buckner is president and P. A. Lorry secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 15, 1880.
FROM BOLTON TOWNSHIP.
BOLTON, September 11, 1880.
Editor Traveler: According to call, the Republicans of Bolton met at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday evening, September 9, and organized a rousing Garfield and Arthur club.
After the organization, in absence of expected speakers from abroad, the president, Mr. Buckner, asked some of the members to state their reasons for being Republicans. Mr. Marshall first responded, and concluded by quoting the forcible reasons given by Col. Ingersoll, which elicited great applause. Amos Walton, being present, was called on. He gave his reasons for having been such a consistent and life-long (?) Democrat, which was a weak argument, to say the least. Then followed Mr. John Brown, who gave us such a rousing speech as we seldom hear. He bled the gentleman (Mr. Walton) and the Democratic party at every thrust. In the course of his remarks he asked if anyone present ever knew a colored man to vote with the Democrats. Mr. Andrews being present said if any such had existed, they were dead.
Mr. Walton tried to reply, but his mind (or whatever he calls it) was so muddled that he could not say anything.
The next speaker was Mr. Clark, a Greenbacker, who scolded the Republicans and Democrats on the financial question about alike. Then referring to the Alabama election, and the manner in which they treated Messrs. Weaver and Randall down there, he came out in such bitter denunciation for the Democrats that those present—Walton, Turner, Gilbert, and Eaton—could not raise their heads “or sit low enough in their seats.” It was the most laughable sight I have witnessed for a long time. I venture they will not sigh for a similar experience in this campaign.
We had a good meeting, and when we come to the polls you can count on Bolton for a good Republican majority. The club meets again at the same place on Thursday evening, September 23, when we will have able speakers from abroad. ONE OF THE CLUB.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 22, 1880.
Hon. W. P. Hackney will address the citizens of Bolton next Monday in Theaker schoolhouse at 2 p.m., and in the Bland schoolhouse at 7:30 p.m.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 22, 1880.
Frank Jennings and Hon. C. R. Mitchell will address the Garfield and Arthur club of Bolton township at the Bland schoolhouse tomorrow at 7 o’clock p.m. Let all good Republicans turn out and see that a rousing meeting is held.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 16, 1881.
The Stock Protective Union will meet in Bland’s schoolhouse, in Bolton township, on the last Saturday in March, at early candle light, for the transaction of important business.
AL. MOWRY, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 10, 1881.
OLD SOLDIERS.
A meeting of “old soldiers,” of Bolton township, will be held at the Bland schoolhouse, on Saturday evening, August 13th, for the purpose of electing delegates to attend the meeting held at Winfield on the 20th inst. This meeting will take into consideration the best means to be pursued and the making of the necessary arrangements to render the “Old Soldiers’ Reunion,” to take place at Winfield on October 7th and 8th, a grand success. All interested should attend this meeting and do their utmost to further the object in view. Time is on the wing, and every year death is thinning the ranks of those who fought side by side for liberty and the Union.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 31, 1881.
SOLDIERS: ATTENTION.
The soldiers in Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Saturday evening, September 2nd, for the purpose of taking some measures in regard to attending the reunion of Cowley County soldiers at Winfield. Soldiers are requested to notify each other of the meeting, and all are requested to attend.
A. WALTON, Vice President of Bolton Township.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 18, 1882.
To Bolton Tax Payers.
Notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Township Board, of Bolton Township, will be held at the Bland Schoolhouse, on Saturday, January 28th, 1882, for the purpose of auditing the accounts and ascertaining the financial condition of the township. The matter of the Arkansas River Bridge will come before the meeting, and it is hoped that all interested will attend. By order, WM. TRIMBLE, Trustee.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 25, 1882.
Bolton Township.
Notice is hereby given by the voters of Bolton Township, that a caucus meeting will be held at the Bland Schoolhouse on the 28th day of January, A. D., 1882, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of nominating candidates for the several township officers, to-wit: One Justice, one trustee, one treasurer, one clerk, two constables, and seven road overseers.
By order of TRUSTEE.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 15, 1882. Editorial Page.
From East Bolton.
Weather mild and spring like.
Most of our farmers are engaged in plowing their ground for spring crops.
The young folks of this vicinity are carrying on an interesting Literary and Debating Society at the Bland Schoolhouse.
Richard Chinn has gone to Harper County, for the purpose of buying a herd of sheep.
Maj. Pettit, of your city, is going to move on to the line the coming spring. He is now making preparations for building a new house, and has recently bought him another farm on the line. Mr. Pettit is a first-class farmer, and now has about 105 acres of land ready for spring crops.
Mr. T. Parvin has rented most of his farm out, and intends to turn his attention to sheep raising.
The settlers of this School District are agitating the question of dividing the district, as their school is getting too much crowded.
MARRIED. Mr. Richard Chinn, of this neighborhood, and Miss Maggie Fleak, of the Territory, were married on the 2nd inst.
A singing school is being carried on at the Stony Point Schoolhouse on Monday evening of each week.
We think the line a first-class place for a man wishing to engage in the dairy business, as we learn one of our friend’s milk bill, for skimmed milk during the present season, amounted to $48. How is this for a milk bill? U. GUESS.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 15, 1882.
S. P. U. The Stock Protective Union will meet at the Bland Schoolhouse, East Bolton, on the last Saturday in March (25th) at 7 o’clock p.m. Election of officers and other business will come before the meeting. AL. MOWRY, Capt.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 3, 1882.
The Republicans of Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland Schoolhouse on Thursday, May 11th, at 7:30 p.m. to choose three delegates and three alternates to attend the Co. Convention at Winfield on Saturday, May 13. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman Tp. Com.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1882.
Republicans of Bolton Township please meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday, August 3rd, at 2 p.m. for the purpose of electing delegates to the County Convention at Winfield, Aug. 5th; also to the 67th Representative Convention, which will be held at Arkansas City Aug. 12th. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman Com.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1882.
Bolton Veterans.
The veterans of Bolton Township who wish to attend the Re-Union of Old Soldiers at Topeka on Sept. 10, 1882, are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse in the above township on August 3rd, 1882, at 2 o’clock p.m., with a view to making the necessary arrangements therefor. P. A. LORRY, Capt.
[Note: Following notice indicates that Mercer Schoolhouse was in West Bolton. MAW]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1882.
S. P. U.
A regular meeting of the South West Bolton Stock Protective Union will be held at the Mercer schoolhouse in West Bolton on Friday, July 28, at 7 o’clock p.m. A full attendance is requested. F. LORRY, Capt.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 17, 1883.
The S. P. U.’s, of Bolton Township, will meet on the last Saturday in January, at the Bland School House, for the election of officers. The meeting will be called to order at early candlelight. All members are requested to attend. AL. MOWRY, Capt.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 24, 1883.
Republican Caucus. The Republicans of Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland School House at 2 o’clock p.m. on Saturday, February 3rd, for the purpose of nominating a township ticket. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman, Township Committee.
P. A. LORRY, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 25, 1883.
Bolton S. P. U.
At the annual meeting of the Bolton Stock Protective Union at the Bland schoolhouse, last Saturday, the following gentlemen were elected officers for the coming year: A. J. Gilbert, Captain; J. W. Patterson, 1st Lieutenant; Dick Chinn, 2nd Lieutenant; and A. Ramsey, Orderly Sergeant. This organization has done first-class work in the past, and under the gentlemen just elected its efficiency will be fully up to its record.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 30, 1883.
Communicated.
SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 69, BOLTON TOWNSHIP.
Ed. Traveler: Quite a pleasant affair was held at the Bland schoolhouse, last Friday, at the close of the summer term of school, in the shape of a picnic or dinner, which was intended for a picnic in the grove, but the rain of Thursday night caused the change. Quite a number of the parents and neighbors came in to enjoy themselves with the children. Declarations and dialogues were ably rendered, after which presents were distributed to all the scholars. The school then closed with a unanimous vote of thanks to Mr. C. F. Cunningham, who has given entire satisfaction in teaching four successive terms in our district, and we hope to be fortunate enough to secure his services in the future. All went away feeling benefitted by being there, and expressed themselves as having had a very enjoyable time. Parents, you can do more for the future of your children by thus showing an interest in their education than by days of toil. VISITOR.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.
The Republicans of Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday, August 30, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of electing five delegates to attend the county convention at Winfield on Saturday, September 1, 1883.
J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman, Township Committee.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1883.
Railroad Meeting.
There will be a meeting of the citizens of Bolton Township at the Bland schoolhouse on the evening of Monday, August 27, to consider the proposition of the Missouri, Winfield and Southwestern Railroad company, which company propose to build a road through Cowley County from the northeast line to a point on the territory line somewhere in Bolton Township.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1883.
Railroad meeting at the Bland schoolhouse next Monday evening.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 24, 1883.
There will be a Republican speaking at the Bland schoolhouse in Bolton Township, on Monday evening, Oct. 29, at 7:30 o’clock p.m. Come out and hear a good speaking. Bring your ladies with you. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman, Township Committee.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1884.
The Bolton Township board will meet at the Bland schoolhouse in West Bolton on Saturday, January 26, 1884, for the transaction of township business. All interested are requested to be present. P. A. LORRY, Trustee.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 23, 1884.
Republicans of East and West Bolton Township are requested to meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Thursday evening, January 31, at 7 p.m., for the purpose of nominating a township ticket for spring election. Please turn out. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman, Committee.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 26, 1884.
The S. P. U. of Bolton will meet at the Bland schoolhouse the first Saturday in April at 9 o’clock p.m. All members are requested to turn out. AL RAMSEY, O. S.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, April 2, 1884.
Aid for Ohio.
The good work started by Sedgwick County is being seconded throughout the country about us, and everywhere we hear of the farmers responding to the call for help from the overflowed districts of Ohio. Not to be outdone in this respect, Cowley County is now making an effort to send several cars of corn to the Ohio relief committee. Free transportation is promised from Winfield by the Southern Kansas Railroad company. Several of Bolton’s prominent farmers waited on the TRAVELER last week and requested that a call be issued for the people to meet at Theaker, Bland, and Stony Point schoolhouses on next Friday evening, and ascertaining just what can be done in this direction. This is a good plan, and it should result in every farmer coming out and constituting himself a committee of one to help in this grand work. If there should be any difficulty in obtaining transportation, the corn could easily be sold to grain buyers in this city and the money forwarded to the proper parties in Ohio. Whatever progress is made can be reported to Mr. N. T. Snyder, who will act in conjunction with the Winfield parties who are pushing this matter. Let our Bolton farmers bear in mind the date and place of meeting—Friday, April 4, at the Theaker, Bland, and Stony Point schoolhouses.
[NOTE: ALL THIS ACTION DUE TO HORRIBLE FLOOD IN OHIO.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 2, 1884.
NOTICE. The S. P. U.’s will meet at Bland schoolhouse next Saturday evening at 7:30 o’clock. There is business of importance to transact. Members cannot afford to remain away. Let there be a full turn out. FRANK LORRY.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 7, 1884.
Notice. There will be a meeting of the citizens of Bolton Township, and all others interested in the burying ground, at the Bland schoolhouse on Saturday, the 17th day of May, at 3 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of consulting together and making arrangements to fence and otherwise improve the burying ground belonging to this township on the northwest corner of the northwest quarter of section ten, township thirty-five, range 3 east.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1884.
The S. P. U.’s of Bolton Township will hold a meeting at the Bland schoolhouse on Saturday next, May 17, for the election of officers, and for other important business. All members are earnestly requested to be present. A. J. GILBERT, Captain.
Arkansas City Republican, June 28, 1884.
Notice. A meeting will be held at Bland schoolhouse, Bolton Township, July 19, in reference to Hope Cemetery Association of Bolton Township. All those who have subscribed to the capital stock of this association, and those having secured lots, and those wishing to secure lots, pay for them to treasurer, on or before July 19, and as soon as possible deeds will be made out. By order of
Wm. MERCER, President, A. J. KIMMEL, Treasurer, A. T. COOPER, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
The Republicans of East and West Bolton Township are requested to meet in joint caucus at the Bland schoolhouse on Wednesday, August 20, at 2:30 p.m., for the purpose of choosing delegates and alternates to the county convention at Winfield on Saturday, August 23; also to choose delegates and alternates to the 67th representative convention, and to elect a member of the central committee. The representation will be the same from each precinct as in the last county convention. J. D. GUTHRIE, Chairman.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
Republicans, Attention.
Republicans of East and West Bolton will meet at the Bland schoolhouse, Saturday, January 31st, at one o’clock sharp, to nominate a ticket for Township Board.
By order of Committee. J. D. GUTHRIE & R. L. BALYEAT.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 1, 1885.
Bolton No. 69.
Wheat is coming out wonderfully.
Farmers are sowing oats.
School closed at the Bland, last Saturday. Quite a number of the neighbors came out bringing with them their baskets filled with many kinds of cake and pie and other delicious eatables. After having a general neighborhood visit, we left, all happy that we came out, and sorry that school closed.
Mr. T. J. Willis has been on the sick list for some time past, but we are informed that he is on the mend.
We understand that there has been a brass band started in Bolton, also a brick-bat band, consisting of four mouth harps.
Many of the militia are asking for spring poetry, but I say wait, desist until old Boreas’ howls have calmed down into a gentle zephyr and until his icy breath no longer shrieks and hisses through every crevice, seemingly [TWO LINES CHOPPED OUT] loose boards and opening barn doors and carrying snow to the wrong places and endeavoring to bring the mercury down to visit and be sociable with zero. I am compelled to say, go away “beautiful snow,” I can never read you again; you have lost all your charms for me.
Chas. Longfeldt has lost his dog—a real dog. Had a red sash on his tail when last seen, and hair cut bias. Chas. will reward any person giving information leading to his recovery.
Our Lyceum has closed until the second Thursday of October, 1885.
The daisy party of the season was given the other night at Captain Pettit’s. Quite a number of the young folks were out, and as Peter was not asked, we are compelled to say it was a packed crowd.
School has closed for the year in the new district on account of a little trouble concerning bonds. It is said, and is a fact, that some of the school patrons voted for the house, and now as the house is built, vote against it. Such people we term cranks, or idiots, in short, any man that will vote against the education of the rising generation, don’t know enough to cast his vote for dog shelter; and, furthermore, if all the property that these cranks have was to be taxed twenty-five percent, their tax which would go for school purposes would not exceed seventeen cents per year. That shows the interest some people have in the rising generation. We only hope that these aforesaid persons could realize the harm that they have done to the neighborhood by casting their vote as they did.
Irresistible as the title, old boreas, as it rolls heavily toward the beach; unrelenting as the devastating bread of old Time as he strides from shore to shore, across the cornfield and potato patches of life, irresponsible as the unfledged writer, Chas. S____, whose insatiable desire for public notice and applause, uncontrollable as the wickedly perverse, the stubbornly crooked, long eared, high healed, lantern jawed species of the horse family—are there circumstances which have called forth the attention of our readers on this great occasion.
Our henpecked husband who lives in a stone house in the neighborhood of the Stony Lonesome schoolhouse, called us a conceited ass, and he himself, claims to be ten times smarter than that sandy complexioned crank which is about to leave Bolton. Perhaps he is, but he will go and partially dictate, and the two together will get up a happy production concerning somebody’s conceited ass, (meaning, of course, a mule.) I would not write at all if I could not write of something worse, of which I am endeavoring to describe in this article.
ARTICLE CONTINUES ALONG THESE SAME LINES...NOTEWORTHY NEWS IS MISSING FROM THE REST!
LAST PARAGRAPH:
You are right, we do expect white people to read the news, and we were surprised when we heard that you and your crank ever read Bolton news. PETER SPRIGGINS.
Arkansas City Republican, April 11, 1885.
The members of the Bolton Stock Protection Union are requested to meet at the Bland Schoolhouse, Saturday evening, April 18th, promptly at 7 o’clock, to elect officers and transact other important business. By order of the company. R. N. TURNER, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 15, 1885.
Stock Raisers’ Meeting.
The members of the Bolton Stock Protective Union are requested to meet at the Bland Schoolhouse, Saturday evening, April 18th, promptly at seven o’clock, to elect officers and transact other important business. By order of the company. R. M. TURNER, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 22, 1885.
Stock Raisers’ Meeting.
The Stock Protective Union of Bolton Township will meet at the Bland Schoolhouse, Monday evening, at 8 o’clock, April 27th. All members not present at that time will be dropped from the roll. We mean business. By order of the captain. J. R. RAMSEY.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 15, 1885.
Notice. A meeting of the Hope Cemetery Association of Bolton Township will be held at the Bland schoolhouse, Tuesday, August 18, at 2 o’clock, p.m., for the purpose of electing officers and attending to other important business. A. T. COOPER, Secretary.
Arkansas City Republican, September 5, 1885.
The voters of Bolton Township will hold their primary in the Bland Schoolhouse Sept. 12th. At what hour we cannot say. The REPUBLICAN would gladly publish the calls of the different townships if the committeemen would bring them in.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 9, 1885.
Political.
The Republicans of East and West Bolton Townships will please meet at the Bland schoolhouse on Wednesday, September 16th, 1885, at 2:30 p.m., to elect seven delegates to the county convention, to be held at Winfield, on Saturday, Sept. 19th, 1885. Apportionment: East Bolton, 3 delegates and 3 alternates; West Bolton, 4 delegates and 4 alternates.
R. L. BALYEAT, J. D. GUTHRIE.
