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Branson Families
[Note: Henry R. Branson handled cattle and hogs.]
Mr. David (?) Branson, former resident of Bolton Township.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 4, 1882.
Mr. Wm. G. Kay, of East Bolton, recently sold one of his farms (200 acres) in that township, to a Mr. Branson from Missouri, for the neat little sum of $2,600. Mr. Branson was a former resident of Bolton in the early days but left several years ago. We congratulate him on his acquisition of so good a place. Mr. Kay will move to his other farm and will put up a substantial residence thereon next spring.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 17, 1883.
DIED. Died on Sunday, October 7th, in Bolton Township, of congestive chill, Gertie May, the 18 months old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Branson. The funeral took place on the following day and the little sleeper was laid to rest in Springdale Cemetery.
Jerome Branson, possibly son...
Arkansas City Republican, March 1, 1884.
George Myers, Charles Myers, and Jerome Branson, were tried before Judge Bonsall, last Thursday, on the charge of disturbing the peace of Cyrus Perkins and others, by throwing eggs against the schoolhouse, in district No. 80, East Bolton, and were fined $1 each and costs, amounting to about $33 apiece, we are informed.
David Branson might be the right name for (?) Branson...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 12, 1884.
BIRTHS. While “A Nonyma,” “Vindex,” and “Laity” have been quarreling over the code, our friend, Dr. Carlisle, of East Bolton, has been going around like a ministering angel, and the following is the result of his labors for two weeks: To David Branson, and wife, of East Bolton, a boy; to C. C. Wolf and wife, of Central Bolton, a girl; to Mr. Vanskike and wife, of East Bolton, a boy; to Isaac Key and wife, of Bolton, a girl; on March 7, to L. D. Skinner and wife, a girl. This is a pretty good record for Bolton Township and we trust she will not weary in her good work.
Arkansas City Republican, February 14, 1885.
Speers & Branson are running a portable saw mill in Bolton Township.
(?) Branson: East Bolton...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
From East Bolton.
ED. REPUBLICAN: Thinking an item from these parts would be of interest to your many readers, I will tell you something of the land exchange since the Frisco struck the state line, not yet 12 months ago. We will commence with the Roberts farm, containing 80 acres, and Beck’s, 80; Hill’s, 98; Whitney’s, 80; Greenbaum, 80; Beeton, 80; Kennedy, 80; Bond, 85; Branson, 80; Ray, 80; Edwards, 80; Herndon, 80; Brown, 320; Holt, 160; Topliff, 480; Pattison, 240; which, if I correctly count, is 2,182 acres, all sold at a fair price. We tell you this to let you know that while we are proud to see Arkansas City’s advancement, we intend to keep as near her as farmers can.
Our crops were light, but we nearly all have enough for our needs, and some have more. Our schools are doing very well. If there is anything of interest, we may appear again in the future. FARMER.
D. D. Branson.
Trial Docket Cowley County District Court,
September Term, 1885, Commencing Sept. 1st.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
2041. O C R Randall vs D D Branson et al. McDonald & Webb for defendant.
2131. D D Branson et al vs W. A. Lee.
DISTRICT COURT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
The District Court convened at nine o’clock yesterday, Samuel Dalton, Judge pro tem, presiding. The docket was called. O. C. R. Randall vs. D. D. Branson—dismissed as per stipulation on file.
W. R. Branson.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 18, 1883.
Frank J. Hess made the following sale yesterday: W. R. Branson to M. Bond, 80 acres, $1,000.
Arkansas City Republican, February 21, 1885.
Tuesday Henry Asp was in town to prosecute in the case of state vs. Chas. Raupe. The trial came off before Judge Kreamer and a jury of six men. About the first of January W. R. Branson had a public sale. Raupe, being the highest bidder, bought 300 bushels of corn, more or less, in the field, bidding 33 cents per bushel. The terms of the sale were to be cash or approved security. Raupe failed to satisfy Branson on this point and the latter forbade the former getting any corn. Raupe never heeded Branson’s warning, but took some anyway. Branson had him arrested and a verdict was rendered against the defendant, Raupe, and a fine of $25 and costs.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 29, 1885.
SKIPPED DETAILS ON SHERIFF’S SALE DUE TO SUIT: L. L. CUSHMAN VS..
W. R. BRANSON. SHERIFF: G. H. McINTIRE. DEPUTY: O. S. RARICK.
Trial Docket Cowley County District Court,
September Term, 1885, Commencing Sept. 1st.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
2057. W A Lee vs W R Branson. J. F. McMullen for plaintiff; Mitchell & Swarts for defendant.
2078. W R Branson vs W A Lee and J W Love. Mitchell & Swarts for plaintiff; J. F. McMullen for defendants.
DISTRICT COURT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
The District Court convened at nine o’clock yesterday, Samuel Dalton, Judge pro tem, presiding. The docket was called. W. A. Lee vs. W. R. Branson—case dismissed at cost of plaintiff, with judgment for plaintiff. W. R. Branson vs. W. A. Lee et al—dismissed with prejudice.
G. M. Branson. Windsor Township.
Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.
Board of County Commissioners met in the County Clerk’s office, July 15, 1872.
The following equalization was made in Windsor Township:
G. M. Branson reduced from $1,280 to $1,100.
Windsor Township 1873: G. M. Branson, 30. No spouse.
Winfield Courier, Saturday, January 11, 1873.
Board of County Commissioners met in County Clerk’s Office, January 6th, 1873.
G. M. Branson paid $2.00 for services as a juror.
Gilbert Branson. [Also Henry Branson]...
THE WINFIELD COURIER.
CENTENNIAL ISSUE.
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
On the 9th day of January, 1870, a party of fifteen men under the lead of Thomas Coats took claims along the Grouse Valley. Their names were John Coats, Wm. Coats, Joseph Reynolds, Gilbert Branson, Henry Branson, Newton Phenis, I. H. Phenis, H. Hayworth, L. B. Bullington, J. T. Raybell, D. T. Walters, S. S. Severson, John Nicholls, and C. J. Phenis.
Henry R. Branson. Dexter Township.
Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.
Board of County Commissioners met in the County Clerk’s office, July 15, 1872.
Dexter Township: Branson, was reduced from $1,200 to $1,000.
Dexter Township 1882: Henry R. Branson, 33; spouse, Eunice, 23.
Eunice Maurer, sister of John D. Maurer, married Henry R. Branson. She died on March 1, 1886.
Recap on John D. Maurer...
John D. Maurer was the oldest of five children, the others being: Sally A. (Martindale), of Emporia; Rowland C., who was a farmer, living with his family near his brother, John D. Maurer; Anna Belle, who died, near Emporia, at the age of twelve years; and Eunice, who married Henry R. Branson, and died March 1, 1886.
John D. Maurer was reared in Ohio, where he attended school until he reached the age of nineteen years. He spent two years of the time in a select school, receiving especial preparation for teaching. He taught one term in Ohio, and also one term after moving to Kansas.
At the age of nineteen years, he enlisted, on August 7, 1862, in Company B, 94th Reg., Ohio Vol. Inf., and was discharged June 14, 1865. He served in the 14th Army Corps under Gen. Thomas, and was slightly wounded at Perryville, being incapacitated for service for six weeks. He also accompanied Sherman's army, as a private, on its "March to the Sea."
He journeyed to Kansas just after the close of the war, and worked as a cowboy for three years about Emporia, Lyon County, Kansas, and also engaged in farming.
A colony of his friends, 17 in number, first visited Cowley County in the spring of 1870. He also made a trip over the country, and finally located in Cowley County in November, 1870, bringing his family a short time afterward. He preempted his present home, the northwest quarter of section 20, township 32, range 7 east, as soon as the survey was made, and built a cabin 12 by 14 feet, of native lumber. He hauled his logs to the mill of Bert French, at Dexter, giving half of the lumber as payment for the sawing. The lumber was of hackberry, walnut, and oak. In the spring of 1871, he split 3,000 rails, and in the winter of 1871-1872 he and his brother cut 300 tons of hay and took 350 head of cattle to feed. He set out two acres of orchard, and found that the Pippin and Ben Davis apples were the best for this county. He eventually owned 520 acres of land, having bought part of it of the preemptors, G. C. Graham, Albert Graham, and Will Coates, all of whom moved away. A part of this tract, 180 acres, was in the fertile Grouse Valley, and was bottom-land, which he cultivated, the remainder being in pasture. He fed cattle and hogs largely and was engaged in general farming, always raising some wheat so as to rotate his crops, but making corn the principal crop. He favored Poland-China hogs and Shorthorn cattle. His crops failed twice, owing to the ravages of the elephant bug. He ended up with a finely improved farm, which he would not part with for $15,000. His original claim house was enlarged and in it he lived with his family for 25 years. His last modern residence of eight large rooms was 28 by 30 feet, two stories high, built in 1899. A new barn, built in 1900, was 30 by 32 feet; arranged for 12 horses, and had a granary and crib with a capacity of 600 bushels of corn, and a mow which held 20 tons of hay.
[See Maurer file.]
Henry Branson [also Gilbert Branson]...
THE WINFIELD COURIER.
CENTENNIAL ISSUE.
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
On the 9th day of January, 1870, a party of fifteen men under the lead of Thomas Coats took claims along the Grouse Valley. Their names were John Coats, Wm. Coats, Joseph Reynolds, Gilbert Branson, Henry Branson, Newton Phenis, I. H. Phenis, H. Hayworth, L. B. Bullington, J. T. Raybell, D. T. Walters, S. S. Severson, John Nicholls, and C. J. Phenis.
Winfield Courier, July 12, 1877.
County Commissioners’ Proceedings.
OFFICE OF COUNTY CLERK,
Winfield, Kansas, July 5th, 1877.
Board of County Commissioners met in regular session. Present: R. F. Burden, Chairman, W. M. Sleeth and William White, members of the board, with James McDermott, County Attorney, R. L. Walker, Sheriff, and M. G. Troup, County Clerk. Among other proceedings claims against the county were presented to the board and passed upon as follows, viz.
[Giving claimant and purpose, plus amount allowed. Skipping amount claimed.]
Witness Fee: Henry Branson, $8.50.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
Henry Branson, from Grouse, was in our city last week.
Winfield Courier, March 14, 1878.
FROM GROUSE.
Henry Branson and his neighbor Reynolds have been doing some valuable improving in the way of ditches through their farms.
While Henry Branson’s father and mother, from Green County, were driving along the bottom near John Brooks’ farm, their buggy ran into a deep hole in a branch and threw Mrs. Branson out. Her shoulder was dislocated by the fall. Under the care of Dr. Rule, he has got along quite well.
[COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ PROCEEDINGS.]
Winfield Courier, April 18, 1878.
H. R. Branson. Road Viewer.
Winfield Courier, December 16, 1880.
The following are the grand jurors summoned by order of the court last week.
H. R. Branson, Dexter.
[GROUSE CREEK CORRESPONDENT: “A WELL WISHER.”]
Winfield Courier, February 9, 1882.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Branson have returned from a visit to relatives in Greenwood County.
[TORRANCE CORRESPONDENT: “DAMON.”]
Winfield Courier, May 11, 1882.
A telegraph dispatch came here last Friday from Greenwood County, stating that the old gentleman Maurer was dying. Rol took the early morning train Saturday in hopes of finding his father yet alive. John was absent from home when the sad news arrived, but returned Saturday, and Sunday morning, with Henry Branson, started in answer to his father’s dying call. The intelligence of Mr. Maurer’s dangerous illness has struck a chord of universal sympathy in this entire community.
[GROUSE VALLEY CORRESPONDENT: “SUBSCRIBER.”]
Winfield Courier, May 18, 1882.
BIRTH. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Branson have a new boy at their house. It is a boy of average weight, and Henry is more smiling than ever.
We were pained to learn of the death of Uncle Jonas Maurer, an old and respected citizen of this neighborhood. He died at the home of his daughter in Greenwood County. The family and relatives have the sympathy of the entire community in this their sad bereavement.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1882.
Hon. Wm. Martindale, with H. R. Branson, of Dexter, paid our city a visit last week.
[DEXTER CORRESPONDENT: “GRANGER.”]
Winfield Courier, August 9, 1883.
Our inflated, jolly Dutchman, Mr. Royer, has sold his farm to Henry Branson, and will settle on Plum Creek.
Mr. Rol. Maurer is having a good stone house put up by a good workman, Mike Walters. Rol. proposes to stay in the valley.
[REPUBLICAN CONVENTION.]
Winfield Courier, September 6, 1883.
Committee on credentials reported the following named delegates and alternates for their respective townships.
DEXTER: Thos. McDonough, J. M. Reynolds, S. H. Wells, G. P. Wagner.
Alternates: H. R. Branson, A. B. Elliott, Wm. Radcliff, L. C. Patterson.
[DEXTER CORRESPONDENT: “GRANGER.”]
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1883.
A pleasant party was held at the residence of Henry Branson on Friday. Just the right number were out. The young folks vote it the best dance of the season.
[DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1883.
Talesman: H. R. Branson.
[REPUBLICAN CONVENTION.]
Winfield Courier, July 17, 1884.
DEXTER. Delegates: H. R. Branson, Ed. Nicholson, D. A. Mandeth, L. G. Patterson.
Alternates: S. H. Wells, W. G. Seaver, R. C. Maurer.
[BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
[From Winfield Courier.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 19, 1884.
Henry Branson, John Maurer, and W. W. Underwood were appointed viewers on A. W. Kavanaugh county road.
A. J. Thompson, A. H. Jennings, and J. P. Short viewers on J. W. Bryan county road; Henry Branson, John Maurer, and W. W. Underwood viewers on J. W. Edmonds road; same viewers on the Kavanaugh road.
Henry Branson, John Maurer, and W. W. Underwood were appointed to view R. J. Mead county road.
[REPUBLICAN COUNTY CONVENTION.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 27, 1884.
Entitled to seats in the convention:
Dexter: H. R. Branson, Thos. McDonough, James Nicholson, Peter Thompson.
THE BOARD OF COUNTY FATHERS.
What Has Been Done to Date at its Present Session,
Beginning on January 5th.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 15, 1885.
Road petition of H. R. Branson et al granted, and S. M. Fall, H. B. Clover, and S. Morris appointed viewers.
Father of the Branson boys, (?) From Eureka pays a visit with sons: Henry, Mart, Abraham, and Lincoln...
[TORRANCE TROUBLES. “JAY-EYE-SEE.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 15, 1885.
Mr. Branson, father of the Branson boys, is visiting the boys. He came in on Saturday night from Eureka, his home. They all sat side by side at the table at the Torrance hotel and partook of dinner Monday last. They arranged themselves according to their ages. The father first, Henry next, Mart next, then Abraham, and Lincoln last.
COUNTY ROAD NOTICES.
Petitions Granted at the Last Meeting of the Commissioners.
Descriptions, Time of Survey, etc.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 29, 1885.
H. R. Branson road, Dexter township; commencing at center sec 33, township 32, r 7 e; thence n on ½ sec line to n line sec 33, township 32, r 7 e; thence w on n line of sec 33 to nw cor of said sec; thence w on n line of sec 32, same township and range, until it intersects R T Wells county road. Also to vacate that portion of the Wells road commencing where it deviates from n line of sec 32, township 32, r 7 e, near nw cor of sec 33, town 32, r 7 e; thence sw till it reaches center of sec 33, same township and range. A. M. Fall, B. H. Clover, and S. Morris, viewers, and county surveyor will survey said road on March 19, 1885, at 10 a.m., and give all a hearing.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 5, 1885.
Quite a number of young people from Torrance and Dexter gave Mr. H. R. Branson a surprise party last Friday night. All present seemed to enjoy themselves. Mr. and Mrs. Branson done all in their power to make the evening a pleasant one. All left knowing just where to go for fun.
DEXTER NEWS. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 12, 1885.
Hon. J. D. Maurer has returned home from Topeka.
Considerable stock has been shipped from this locality of late. W. W. Underwood sold a carload of fat cattle, and Henry Branson two carloads of fat cattle, while other parties have been shipping hogs and sheep. A more enterprising and business class of men than Grouse valley affords is hard to find. Messrs. Hardwick and Peabody have been buying and shipping all winter.
ABSTRACT OF COUNTY AUDITOR’S REPORT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 19, 1885.
Abstract of the monthly report of the County Auditor of Cowley County, Kansas, of claims certified to the County Clerk, on the First Monday of March, 1885.
H. R. Branson juror fees: $52.40.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
Mr. Henry and Link Branson left Friday morning for Eureka, having been called to the bedside of their brother, Mart, who is not expected to live.
THE COUNTY FATHERS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 16, 1885.
Viewers’ reports in the H. R. Branson, S. A. Bendure, A. A. Bowen, W. H. H. Rathbun and D. E. Standeford county roads were adopted granting the roads. No damages claimed.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 23, 1885.
Mr. Henry Branson shipped three car loads of nice cattle Tuesday.
TORRANCE ITEMS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 4, 1885.
Mr. Henry Branson received word Thursday morning that his father had lost his house, and everything in it, by fire.
DEXTER. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 4, 1885.
Miss Lou Jarvis spent Sunday with Mr. Henry Branson’s family. Lou is teaching quite an interesting school southeast of Dexter. We wish her much success.
THE WINFIELD NATIONAL BANK.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
We are in receipt of a handsome circular announcing the change of the Winfield Bank to the Winfield National Bank, with a paid in capital of one hundred thousand dollars, and an authorized capital of five hundred thousand dollars. H. B. Schuler is president and E. T. Schuler, cashier. The directors are H. B. Schuler, J. B. Lynn, C. Perry, Dr. Geo. Emerson, Arthur M. Green, of Pleasant Valley; H. R. Branson, of Dexter; and George H. Williams, of Rock. The new National opens up under the most favorable auspices. Mr. Schuler is a banker of long experience and is conservative and careful as a manager. The directors are among our best businessmen and capitalists. The old Winfield Bank has long enjoyed the confidence and a large share of the business of our people and THE COURIER predicts for the Winfield National, into which it has merged, long continued success and prosperity.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
H. R. Branson shipped several car loads of cattle last week.
DEXTER. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Martindale, of Madison, Kansas, were visiting her sister, Mrs. Henry Branson, last week.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 9, 1885.
Frank Pierce and Link Branson have sold their interest in the livery stable to H. R. Branson.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 23, 1885.
Mr. Mart Branson and wife, of Eureka, are visiting his brother, Henry.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
H. R. Branson, R. C. Maurer, and W. D. Allen were over Saturday from Torrance.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
Mr. Branson, of Eureka, was on a visit to his sons, Henry and Link, last week.
OTTER VALLEY. “JESSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 10, 1885.
H. R. Branson was in Otter Valley last week buying cattle to feed.
DEXTER. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 17, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Henry Branson have gone to Eureka to visit relatives. May they have a pleasant time is the wish of the writer.
DEXTER DOTS. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 26, 1885.
H. R. Branson will ship three car loads of fat hogs this week.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
A meeting of the stockholders of the Winfield National Bank was held Tuesday, Jan. 12th, 1886. C. Perry, Arthur H. Green, Geo. Emerson, J. B. Lynn, Geo. H. Williams, Henry R. Branson, and H. B. Schuler were elected directors. The officers elected are H. B. Schuler, President; Everett Schuler, cashier; and Geo. H. Schuler, assistant cashier.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
Henry Branson’s children have been sick with the fever, but are getting better.
DEXTER DOTS. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
There is considerable sickness among the children of the vicinity.
One of Henry Branson’s twin children has lung fever.
Mr. Henry Branson was the recipient of quite a valuable New Year’s present from his wife, it being a handsome ten and a half pound boy.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
Mr. Branson and wife, of Eureka, are visiting their sons here.
Mrs. H. R. Branson is quite sick. We hope she is not dangerous.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
Mrs. Henry Branson, of Grouse Creek near Torrance, died Tuesday.
DEXTER DOTS. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 11, 1886.
Died, at her home three miles north of Dexter, on Monday evening, March 1st, Mrs. Eunice Branson, wife of Henry Branson, of pneumonia. Mrs. Branson’s sickness was of short duration, but very severe, not being bedfast quite a week. She was doing well up to Saturday morning when she took a relapse and rapidly grew worse until death ended all. Her only sister, Mrs. Martindale, residing at Madison, Greenwood County, was telegraphed for, but alas! She was too late to see her sister; her spirit had departed half an hour before her arrival. Mrs. Branson was a sister of R. C. and J. D. Maurer. She was twenty-seven years of age last December. Could she have lived a few hours longer, she would have witnessed her tenth wedding anniversary, as they were married March 2nd, 1876. It was a sad blow to Henry to give her up and more sorrowful still for those little, motherless children, who need a loving mother’s care more than anything in this world. But the Master calls and we must go. She leaves a husband and seven children to mourn her untimely loss, her youngest a babe two months old. She was buried Wednesday at 2 o’clock in the Dexter cemetery and was followed to the grave by a large procession of relatives and friends. The funeral was preached at the residence by Rev. N. A. Rankin, the Presbyterian minister of Dexter.
Hon. J. D. Maurer’s youngest child has been very sick with pneumonia; also his wife’s brother is afflicted with the same disease. At the present writing they are on the mend.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
The third love tragedy for Cowley County since last fall has been enacted. Monday at five o’clock p.m., Jim Nichols came in from Dexter with the intelligence that A. B. Elliott, a wealthy farmer and old settler of Dexter township, had put a double charge of shot into the breast of his daughter’s questionable lover, Dr. W. M. Chastain. Sheriff G. H. McIntire and Deputy Joe Church, who happened to be here from Dexter, left immediately for the scene, followed closely by Coroner Wells, Assistant County Attorney Lovell H. Webb, and THE COURIER scribe. At the home of George Dunlap, the victim’s boarding place, lay the body of Dr. Chastain, with his left breast in a jelly from a heavy charge of turkey shot.
A. B. Elliott came to Dexter eight or nine years ago and bought the Bryan farm, right up against the village, and one of the best farms in Kansas—all in the rich Grouse valley. He also owns another farm near and is considered one of that section’s well-to-do men. He had always lived peacefully until this racket and has a host of friends. He has ten children, four of whom are grown. Two sons-in-law, William Radcliff and Moses Williams, live near him. He takes this murder with great coolness. He doesn’t deny it. He claims self defense. Public sympathy is largely with Elliott, though all agree that his attacking in the public highway will be bad. Elliott is fifty-five years old.
THE INQUEST.
At 9 o’clock Tuesday morning, Coroner Wells began the inquest, with H. R. Branson, J. H. Serviss, S. H. Wells, A. C. Holland, and C. A. Peabody as jurymen. Lovell H. Webb examined about twenty witnesses. The jury’s verdict found A. B. Elliott the murderer. A post mortem by Drs. Wells and G. P. Wagoner revealed thirty-six turkey shot in the left breast, six of which entered the heart. It was a revolting perforation.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 1, 1886.
The preliminary examination, before Judge Buckman, of Alfred B. Elliott for the murder of Wilborn M. Chastain, at Dexter, on the 22nd, closed at five o’clock last evening. The defendant was granted bail in the sum of $10,000, which was promptly given. The court room was thronged with anxious listeners. The interest was intense and when the case was declared bailable, signs of approbation were noticeable all around.
The Judge said the evidence warranted the charge of murder in the first degree and the prisoner would be held. “I believe the prisoner is entitled to bail and as he is able to give sufficient bond, I will place his bond at $10,000.”
The crowded audience arose and the preliminary was over. Mr. Elliott was warmly congratulated at his fortune in getting bond. All over the audience and especially among the Dexterites, could be seen a strong leaning in favor of Elliott. The attorneys for the defense immediately prepared the bond. Plenty of men were on hand to sign the bond. The bondsmen are: Alfred B. Elliott, Rowland C. Maurer, John B. Harden, S. G. Elliott, John R. Smith, Azro O. Elliott, Isaac H. Penis, Tully G. Hoyt, George M. Hawkins, John M. Reynolds, J. Wade McDonald, James McDermott, H. R. Branson, and J. M. Jackson—fourteen names. The bond was approved. The bondsmen were not required to qualify. The bond aggregates big wealth.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 11, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
The contest for the Republican nomination for Register of Deeds next fall bids fair to be a lively one. The following is a list of the few who are already in the field with several townships to hear from: T. B. Meyers, of Winfield; J. M. McKee, of Sheridan; Henry Branson, S. H. Wells, and H. C. McDorman, of Dexter, Sam Rash, Harvey; Sam Phenix, Richland; Major Woodin, Arkansas City; Wm. Douglass, Fairview; S. P. Strong, Rock; Mose Teter, Beaver; N. W. Dressie, Winfield; and E. L. Johnson, of Sheridan. Quite a sprinkling of aspirants. Winfield Visitor.
Daily Calamity Howler, Thursday, October 1, 1891.
DEXTER ITEMS.
Miss Maggie Hoozer is visiting Mrs. H. R. Branson.
Daily Calamity Howler, Tuesday, October 6, 1891.
Henry Branson of Grouse was shaking hands with his many friends today.
Daily Calamity Howler, Saturday, October 17, 1891.
DEXTER ITEMS.
Henry Branson was in Kansas City last week on business.
Daily Calamity Howler, Monday, October 26, 1891.
H. R. Branson, of Dexter, is in town.
Daily Calamity Howler, Saturday, October 31, 1891.
Democrats Attention.
In a conversation that I had with S. G. Gary on or about Oct. 9, 1891, he got a little warm over political matters and made, in substance, the following statement: “The democratic ticket was put up on purpose to beat the people’s party. They are going to do it and you fellows can’t help yourselves.” I told this to some parties and have heard since that Mr. Gary denies making the statement. Mr. H. R. Branson was present and heard the statement and will make affidavit to the same if necessary. So will I. W. F. PIERCE.
H. M. Branson. Torrance.
[This could be “Mart,” brother of Henry Branson.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 7, 1880. Front Page.
COWLEY’S TOWNS.
Something About Their Live Men and Business Interests.
BY OUR SOLICITOR.
TORRANCE.
This town is only six months old, and has sprung into existence like a mushroom. It is situated one-half mile west of Grouse creek and is almost encircled by this beautiful stream.
The scenery is both romantic and grand. Torrance is on an elevation overlooking the stream and valley, and at a distance on both sides of the stream are a range of bluffs which would meet the eye of a landscape painter very favorably. I think the citizens of Burden and Cambridge made a mistake by not combining and making this place the center of attraction. All kinds of fish are caught in the stream. The K. C., L. & S. R. R., with its usual liberality, intends to erect a depot here.
There is every facility here to make it one of the most populous towns. There is an extensive flag and limestone quarry within a distance of one-fourth of a mile. The Town Company, which owns 80 acres of ground where the town is built, is composed of gentlemen of wealth and prominence; and who extend a welcome to all settlers. Mr. Campbell, who is solicitor and notary public, is almost constantly employed making out deeds for settlers who are continually coming here. No person can appreciate this place without coming and judging for himself. The springs are as fine as any I have ever seen. The town has a steam saw mill, grist mill, good school facilities, doctors, drug stores, etc. The number of dwellings is about 25 all told.
D. Campbell, Esq., solicitor and notary public, is postmaster here. Mr. Campbell is in the real estate business and has several farms in the valley for sale. He is a gentleman in every respect; people in general place the most implicit confidence in his integrity. Every person coming here should call on Mr. Campbell respecting real estate and other information.
H. M. Branson runs the Torrance supply store (where the post office is located). He keeps a general assortment, comprising dry goods, boots, and shoes, groceries, furnishing goods, confectionery, tobacco, and every article contained in a general store. Mr. Branson is a gentleman well and favorably known throughout the county. The people of the town have implicit confidence in him.
[THE MONITOR’S LOCALS.]
Winfield Courier, December 23, 1880.
H. M. Branson, the proprietor of the Torrance store, is building up a fine trade from the Grouse valley. Mr. Branson is an old citizen, an excellent farmer, and a successful businessman.
[TORRANCE CORRESPONDENT: “CROCKETT.”]
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.
H. M. Branson has moved into his new house and has also built an addition to his store room.
H. M. Branson, Windsor...
Winfield Courier, April 27, 1882.
An additional venire of eighteen jurymen was ordered by Judge Torrance Tuesday morning. The following gentlemen were drawn: H. M. Branson, Windsor; Alfred Hightower, Dexter; W. W. McDonough, Otter; Wm. Rouzee, Beaver; G. M. Moore, Walnut; J. R. Scott, Tisdale; Wm. Shrieves, Spring Creek; A. H. Miller, Liberty; Thos R. Carson, Richland; Geo. Homer, Otter; Thos. Baird, Bolton; Frank Weakley, Walnut; C. W. Frith, Liberty; J. H. Titus, Bolton; J. S. Mohler, Windsor; J. R. Tobin, Spring Creek; Pearson Coe, Richland; Thos. Cooley, Maple.
[TORRANCE CORRESPONDENT: “CROCKETT.”]
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1883.
H. M. Branson has retired from the mercantile business, and Bryant & Northcutt take his place.
DEXTER NEWS. “MOSS BACK.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 5, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Mart Branson, formerly of Dexter, but now of Eureka, Kansas, are visiting Mrs. Branson’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Hite.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
Mr. Henry and Link Branson left Friday morning for Eureka, having been called to the bedside of their brother, Mart, who is not expected to live.
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers, filed in the office of Register of Deeds yesterday.
H M Branson and wife to John M Allen, lots 8, 9, 10 and 11, block 149, and lots 11 and 12, block 141, Torrance: $1,550.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 23, 1885.
Mr. Mart Branson and wife, of Eureka, are visiting his brother, Henry.
DEXTER. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 30, 1885.
Mr. and Mrs. Mart Branson, of Eureka, are visiting relatives and friends here. We are always glad to see Mart and Stella’s smiling faces.
DEXTER DOTS. “MOSS ROSE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 11, 1886.
Mart Branson and wife are down from Eureka, Kansas, called here by the death of his brother’s wife. They will return this week.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 18, 1886.
H. M. Branson and wife were Centraled Tuesday, from Eureka.
Abraham Lincoln “Link” Branson.
[Brother of Henry R. Branson.]
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1882.
Chas. J. Phenis sold his farm of 120 acres, in Sheridan Township, to Lincoln Branson, for $1,200 last week.
[TORRANCE TROUBLES. — “JAY-EYE-SEE.”]
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1884.
Link Branson and Will Swim, of this place, took in the oyster supper at Dexter on Thanksgiving evening. They report a good time but no oysters.
[TORRANCE TROUBLES. “JAY-EYE-SEE.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 22, 1885.
W. S. Rigden and A. L. Branson, of Torrance, were in Winfield on Monday of this week on business.
The young folks of Torrance have organized a theatrical troup and intend to give an entertainment in the near future. The title of the play is “Among the Breakers.” Following is the cast of actors: David Murry, H. G. Norton; Larry Divine, C. G. Elliott; Hon. Bruce Hunter, C. D. Magner; Clarence Hunter, W. A. Swim; Peter Paragraph, A. L. Branson; Send (colored), Add Higbee; Miss Minnie Daze, Mattie Baxter; Bess Starbright, Mattie Wilson; Mother Carey, Mattie Rittenhouse; Biddy Bean, Eva Reynolds. We shall expect a good entertainment from them, as they are all talented young people and each one is suited to his or her particular part.
TORRANCE TROUBLES. “JAY-EYE-SEE.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 12, 1885.
Link Branson received a severe kick from one of his mules on Saturday night last; however, he is still on his “pins” and able to be up and about.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
Mr. Henry and Link Branson left Friday morning for Eureka, having been called to the bedside of their brother, Mart, who is not expected to live.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
Link Branson spent several days last week visiting his parents in Eureka.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 9, 1885.
Frank Pierce and Link Branson have sold their interest in the livery stable to H. R. Branson.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
Mr. Branson, of Eureka, was on a visit to his sons, Henry and Link, last week.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 17, 1885.
Link Branson and Add Higbee were in Winfield Wednesday.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 17, 1885.
Mr. Link Branson has a blemish on his chin.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 8, 1885.
Link Branson is visiting his parents in Eureka this week.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 29, 1885.
Link Branson and Will Barcelow took a drove of cattle to Eureka last week, and will bring another drove back this week.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 29, 1885.
Married at the residence of J. L. Higbee, Miss Lizzie Higbee to Fred L. Darrow, of Schell City, Mo., by Rev. Childs, Oct. 20. There were present Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Higbee, of Schell City, Mo., brother of the bride, Miss Ida Straughn, of Cambridge, Lottie and Sallie Haygood, Laura Elliott, Low and Mattie Wilson, Eva Reynolds, Mattie Rittenhouse, and Ida Hemenway, all of Torrance. Gentlemen: Robert Haygood, Will and Ab Taylor, Link Branson, Chas. Elliott, H. G. Norton, Col. Reynolds, and Will Barr, of Torrance, and Thomas Jones, of Cambridge. The bridal party left for Schell City, Mo., where they will make their future home. The groom is a young man of noble character and habits, and has a fine prospect of future advancement. Mrs. Darrow will be missed by her many friends she leaves behind, and who wish her success and long life. The following are some of the presents: J. L. Higbee and wife, $25 in gold; Mr. Fred Darrow, gold necklace; Gene and Bettie Higbee, silver butter dish; Charles King, breast pin; Mrs. King, gold bracelets; David Higbee, set dishes; Ad Higbee, scrap book; Laura Elliott, set napkins; Eva Reynolds, pin cushion.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 5, 1885.
Link Branson has quit batching and is now boarding at A. O. Elliott’s.
TORRANCE. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, December 3, 1885.
Link Branson attended the necktie party at Dexter Thursday night.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.
Link Branson left Monday for Eureka, to spend a week with his parents.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 14, 1886.
Link Branson arrived home from his Eureka trip all safe and sound.
TORRANCE ITEMS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 11, 1886.
Mr. Branson has taken his livery stable away from Torrance.
O. C. Branson, of Eureka.
[Another Brother of Henry R. Branson.]
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 5, 1885.
Mr. O. C. Branson, of Eureka, is visiting his brother, Lincoln. He is quite a dandy and we hope he will visit us often.
TORRANCE ETCHINGS. “DAN.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 16, 1885.
Mr. O. C. Branson, of Eureka, Link’s tall and handsome brother, came down Friday and stayed over Sunday. Come again.
Nancy Branson Parr.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 25, 1883.
MARRIED. Mr. Wm. M. Parr and Miss Nancy Branson, of Cowley, were joined in the holy bonds of matrimony on Tuesday evening, the 17th inst., by Rev. Fleming. The happy couple were married in a rather romantic way, by sitting in their buggy in front of Mr. Fleming’s residence, and as soon as the ceremony was performed, drove away thinking it was better to “Let not the marriage of true minds admit impediments; love is not love which alters when it alteration finds.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 4, 1885.
The case of Parr and Branson against W. A. Lee to recover $150 damages claimed to have been made in the non-delivery of a traction engine was filed Saturday in the District Court from Judge Kreamer’s court, Arkansas City.
Mr. (?) Branson, agent, K. C. L. & S. K. Railroad, Winfield.
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1883.
$17, Round Trip to St. Louis.
Branson, the agent of the K. C. L. & S. K. railroad, will sell at the north depot, Winfield, round trip tickets to the St. Louis Fair for $17. This is only but little more than half rates. The fair commences at St. Louis Oct. 10th and continues all the week. It will be the grandest of all her grand fairs and the magic and spectacular processions of evenings are expected to beat the New Orleans “Mardi Gras” and the Baltimore “Oriole.”
Henrietta Branson - Arkansas City.
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 8, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
D R Rigdon to Henrietta Branson, lot 27, blk 6, A. C.: $125.00.
A H Fitch et al to Henrietta Branson, lots 26, 27, and 28, blk 30, A. C.: $600.00.
Will M. Branson - Windsor Township.
REPUBLICAN COUNTY CONVENTION.
Everything Harmonious, With No Opposition to Speak of. A Ticket Unexcelled.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 24, 1885.
WINDSOR.
Delegates: S. M. Fall, J. W. Tull, W. B. Weimer, G. G. Barber, W. E. Dwyer, Ike Phenis, Shelton Morris.
Alternates: A. B. Booth, Ben Clover, N. E. Darling, Jesse Hiatt, C. Rheims, Will Branson, N. S. Crawford.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 12, 1885.
Will M. Branson is a Brettun guest. He is on his return from the silver wedding of his parents, at El Dorado. He went to Medicine Lodge yesterday. Winfield has a fair attraction for Will—and we don’t blame him.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 25, 1886.
Will Branson came over from Medicine Lodge to spend Sunday with the “boys.” Will seems to make pretty regular trips here now; must be some attraction.
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
William M Branson et ux to Aaron H Hanley, lot 23, blk 80, A C: $550.00.
Arkansas City Republican, March 20, 1886.
East Bolton Items.
William Branson, a former resident of Bolton, but for a short time a resident of the city, has again taken up his abode in East Bolton.
