City Hotel Becomes Leland Hotel

                                                 A “LANDMARK HOTEL.”
                                            City Hotel Becomes Leland Hotel.
                                                    Leland Hotel Removed.
                                           Location: 200 South Summit Street.

                                                        “Landmark Hotel.”
The second hotel in Arkansas City, built by H. O. Meigs, was called the “City Hotel.” It went through a number of changes as the years went by.
Emporia News, July 15, 1870.
The following are among the more than fifty houses now being built, or under contract to be built in Arkansas City.
H. O. Meigs, a building 20 x 32, two stories, with cellar under the whole building.
Emporia News, January 27, 1871.
The new City Hotel is warm, neat, and luxurious in all its appointments. A more cozy or better conducted house is not found in Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. Meigs, proprietors, leave nothing undone to promote the comfort of their guests, even their neat bed chambers are so arranged as to be warmed from the fires below.
Emporia News, February 3, 1871.
H. O. Meigs has recently erected a large building, in which he has opened the City Hotel, one of the best hotels in the valley.
Emporia News, February 17, 1871.
H. O. Meigs, of Arkansas City, is in town today. Mr. Meigs is the proprietor of the City Hotel and an active member of the town company.
Emporia News, August 25, 1871. [Article by Stotler, Editor.]
                                                        ARKANSAS CITY.
This town has over 100 buildings. Among the rest, and about the largest and best, is the city hotel, kept by our friend, H. O. Meigs. It is the best kept hotel in the Walnut Valley. The table is supplied with good, substantial food, and what is not the case with all tables, it is clean and well cooked; altogether, this is the cleanest, best ventilated, and most homelike public house we have found in our travels lately.
[MURDER WILL OUT: MISS MATTIE JONES, SOUTH HAVEN.]
                                       [Item from the Arkansas City Traveler.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 25, 1873.
INCENDIARY. Miss Jones, of South Haven, has been arrested for attempting to burn the schoolhouse, and making threats that she would burn the whole town. She is comparatively young and considered handsome. The cause of the disturbance originated from the young woman being excluded from the schoolhouse during an entertainment on account of her character. The schoolhouse was fired, but the flames were extinguished before much damage was done.

Since writing the above we learn that Miss Jones was not arrested, but had eluded the officers. In investigating this matter another deed was brought to light which, for the past six months, has been a mystery. Last fall Mrs. Jones, the mother of Miss Mattie Jones (whom some of our citizens will remember arrived at this place in the fall of 1872, and stopped at the City Hotel for several days, and being unable to pay for her stage fare, left her trunk for security.), died very mysterious­ly, and the facts have leaked out as follows.
Mrs. Jones and Mattie, becoming tired of Mr. Jones, who had separated from his wife once and then returned, laid a plan by which they should rid themselves of him by poisoning the eatables which he would partake of on his return from Wichita, where he had gone after freight. Before the return of Mr. Jones, however, Mrs. Jones became delirious from the effects of ague, and in her delirium called to her son for some coffee. The young man, aged about 14 years, had overheard the plans of the women but in the absence of the boy’s sister, who was then working at the Hotel in South Haven, he gave his mother the coffee, thinking she had not poisoned it, or she would not have called for it. Shortly after taking the coffee, the old woman died. Mr. Jones returned at noon the next day; but when the neighbors set his dinner before him, his son told him what he had overheard and warned him not to eat. This caused some suspicion, but nothing was said of the matter until the schoolhouse was fired and the general character of Mattie Jones brought before the public, when it was exposed by one party who had received the whole story from Mr. Jones and his son. Traveler.
Winfield Courier, April 17, 1874.
                                                    [Item from the “Traveler.”]
Forty-two beds were made at the City Hotel on the night of the circus. This Hotel has been compelled to put on another addition in order to make room for the traveling public. H. O. Meigs is well known as a landlord, and his many friends are glad to hear of his resuming control of this most estimable house.
The following item clarifies the fact that H. O. Meigs turned over the City Hotel to A. N. Deming at some point in 1874 and then took it back later that year.
Winfield Courier, October 9, 1874.
Our readers will notice the change in the management of the Lagonda House. A. N. Deming, formerly of the City Hotel of Arkansas City, took charge yesterday. We know Mr. Deming is one of the best landlords in the west, and always keeps a first class house in every particular. Mr. Deming and his interesting family will be quite an acquisition to our society. We wish them happiness and prosperity in their new home.
Note that by 1876 the City Hotel was owned by Mantor...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 6, 1876.
                                                        ARKANSAS CITY.
A splendid brick church, the best edifice of the kind in the country, a substantial frame church, a cut stone bank (J. C. McMullen’s), the City Hotel, a three-story structure, kept by Mantor & Son, the Central Avenue, a commodious two-story build­ing, Houghton & McLaughlin, immense dry goods store, J. H. Sherburne & Co.’s two-story business house, J. C. McMullen’s elegant private residence constructed of brick with cut stone trimmings, costing $6,000, are among the most prominent and expensive of the buildings upon the town site. It contains about 550 population.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 26, 1876.
                                   CITY HOTEL, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
In one of the best built, finished, and furnished houses in Southern Kansas. Mr. Mantor, Proprietor. Stable convenient.

Arkansas City Traveler, March 15, 1876.
RETIRED. Mr. Mantor retired from the duties of landlord of the City Hotel, last Monday, to the enjoyment of private life. During the year’s time he had control of the hotel, he made many friends, and established a good reputation for the house. The Central Avenue is now the only regular hotel in this place, as the City will be rented to private families.
Cowley County Democrat, March 28, 1876.
                                                       Arkansas City Item.
The Central Avenue is the only house in the city now, the City Hotel having closed, but the Central Avenue is up to business and we can still offer as good hotel accommodations as can be found in the Southwest.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 22, 1879.
We understand Hermann Godehard has rented the City Hotel with a view of opening the same to the public, after it has been properly repaired. Hermann has served the public as Mine Host in former times, and always enjoyed the reputation of setting a number one table.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 12, 1879.
Won’t the city dads dump a few loads of dirt into that goose pond at the northwest corner of the old City Hotel. We wish to locate the depot just there.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 23, 1879
We again call the attention of the dads to that horrid goose pond at the northwest corner of the old City Hotel. Fill it up. It adds nothing to the beauty of Summit Street.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1879.
Mr. Henry Tisdale, the mail contractor, gave us a call last week, and informed us of his intention to thoroughly repair the old City Hotel this summer, and rent it to a first-class landlord.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 11, 1879.
The City Hotel is to be repaired and rented to a first-class landlord.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1879.
Mr. Cuyler, of Quincy, Illinois, has leased the old City Hotel of Henry Tisdale, and will take possession after the building has been thoroughly repaired and put in order for a first-class house.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 30, 1879.
Last Saturday mechanics commenced work on the old City Hotel, and we expect to soon see another first class house opened to the public.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1879.
The mechanics are hard at work on the City Hotel, and have changed the internal, as well as the external, appearance of the building very greatly.
Excerpts from long article...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1879 - Front Page.
                                                        ARKANSAS CITY
In the Chicago Commercial Advertiser of July 31, we find the following account of our thriving city.
The old City Hotel is now undergoing remodeling and refurnishing, and will be put in first-class order by Mr. Cuyler, another Quincy man and a prime landlord.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1879
Mr. Eager, the gentleman who is superintending the remodel­ing of the City Hotel, proposes giving a social hop next week, by way of opening up the house. The young folks are spoiling for another dance.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 27, 1879.
J. C. Eager, the gentleman who has superintended the remod­eling of the City Hotel, having completed his work, left for a trip through Sumner County last Sunday morning, expecting to return soon.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 27, 1879.
Since Cap. Sanford has moved his furniture down, the music loving young gentlemen gather at the new City Hotel every evening to enjoy a sing and listen to most excellent music on Mrs. Sanford’s piano. It is one of Decker Bros. make, and a very fine instrument.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 27, 1879.
The best and most important improvement in our city is the thorough overhauling and remodeling of the City Hotel by Mr. J. C. Eager, an agent of Mr. Tisdale. He has done his work in a very thorough manner, having put the hotel in first-class condi­tion. From the new roof to the cellar, the house has been cleaned, freshly painted and papered outside and in, and the stairways have been altered and made much more convenient. The work being completed, the house will soon be thrown open to the public, and under good management will be certain to receive a large share of patronage.
By way of giving the hotel the “name of good places,” Mr. Eager gave a social dance on Tuesday evening of last week, which was a success in every particular, the lovers of the mazy keeping the fun up until the “wee sma’ hours.” Among those from abroad, i.e., Winfield, we were pleased to see Messrs. O. M. Seward, S. Suss, Charley Kelly, Eli Youngheim, Keys, Rodocker, also M. L. Bangs, while the fair sex was represented by a choice quartette composed of the Misses Patton, Miss Iowa Roberts and Miss Mattie Walters. This hotel has been opened under very favorable circum­stances, and Messrs. Eager and Tisdale deserve the thanks of this communi­ty for the increased accommodations that can now be furnished to strangers visiting our city.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 17, 1879.
The soldiers are talking of giving a dance at the City Hotel some time soon. The nights are becoming cool enough now to make a dance quite enjoyable.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
Where, oh where, is the landlord of the City Hotel?
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1879.
The Republican meeting at the City Hotel last Saturday night was represented by members of both parties, and the arguments in support of why Republicans should vote the straight ticket were sensible.
The explanation of Winfield on railroad matters gave but little satisfaction to our citizens, though that question has nothing to do with the Republican party.
Whether Winfield was willing, or not, to assist Arkansas City in obtaining the road is a side issue, and as we have secured the prize, we can very well afford to put that question at rest.

If we act with a united effort as Republicans, the victory will be an easy one, and just at the time when Republican success is very essential to the prosperity of the town. Judge Coldwell’s remarks on National politics were convincing and the intelligent members of the Democratic party, who were present, felt their application. The policy pursued in the South, by the Democratic party, in electing officers by a small minority vote, was fully exposed and the danger of giving aid to such a policy strongly presented.
As Mr. Hackney said in his remarks, the election this fall is the skirmish line of what is to follow at the next Presiden­tial election, and the chief aim of the Democracy is to keep the Republican ranks split, so as to capture our divided strength twelve months from now.
The success of the Democracy this fall is but a small consideration with them, further than a grip on what they hope to attain one year hence, and it is left to you, as Republican, to say whether you are ready to turn this government over to the party that for four long years shot your kindred from the brush, murdered the feeble and the aged in their homes, and on the field plundered the pockets of the dead soldier. Close up the ranks boys, and vote as you shot.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1879.
The late proprietor of the Pacific House, Wichita, has leased the City Hotel at this place and will open the house to the public in a few days.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1879.
We acknowledge the receipt of a complimentary to the mili­tary hop, on Thursday night at the City Hotel. Lieutenant Cushman and his detachment are renowned for doing whatever they undertake in the best style, and those who attend will be sure of a good time.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1879.
The detachment of military stationed at this place will give a grand hop at the City Hotel on Thursday night. “The boys in blue” have been with us for several months, and their gentlemanly bearing and social qualities have won the friendship of our people. Turn out and show that you appreciate a good thing by attending the hop.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 22, 1879.
Where is that landlord for the City Hotel?
Arkansas City Traveler, October 29, 1879.
Mr. C. U. France, the former proprietor of the Pacific House at Wichita, has leased the City Hotel in our town, and will be ready to entertain the public in a day or two. Mr. France had a large run of patronage in the old Pacific and he will continue to serve the public with the best the market affords at the City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 29, 1879.
                                   CITY HOTEL, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
This house has been remodeled and is now ready for business. A good sample room. Give me a call. C. U. FRANCE, Proprietor.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 5, 1879.

The City Hotel, on last Thursday, was again reopened under the new management of Mr. C. U. France, an experienced landlord, of Wichita. The building has been thoroughly overhauled and refurnished and everything about the house looks neat, clean, and comfortable, and the weary traveler will find all the comforts of a first-class hotel at his disposal.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1879.
The old City Hotel has been refitted and refurnished so quietly that unless you drop in and chat with the gentlemanly proprietors you would hardly know that a first class house had started in our midst.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1879.
Remember the Thanksgiving dinner and supper next Thursday at the City Hotel. Dinner will be served promptly at noon, also at any time during the afternoon and evening. All contributions gratefully received.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1879.
A new harness shop has started into life in the basement of the City Hotel, and is ready for a thriving business. Give them a call. The firm is Krauss & Lehrmann.
AD: KRAUSS & LEHRMANN, Manufacturers and dealers in Saddles and Harness. Repairing promptly attended to. Shop in the basement of the City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1879.
The Masonic fraternity have an oyster supper at the City Hotel tomorrow evening, to which all the members of the lodge are invited.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1880.
Krauss & Lehrmann will pay the highest cash market prices for hides and furs. Office basement City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 28, 1880.
The hotels in town are crowded. We called at one the other night and found the guests piled on the floor about like cord wood. One unfortunate who retired (?) in peaceable and lawful possession of two hundred and twenty-five (avoirdupois) was flattened into a spread representing a government wall map, while the perspiration that flowed from his hide might be the victim of a tan vat. He spoke our views when he declared that, “What this town needs is hotels with more elbow room.”
Arkansas City Traveler, March 3, 1880.
One of the numerous Cowboys who infest the Territory South of this place visited the city one day last week. After imbibing freely of tanglefoot, he proceeded to the City Hotel, where he gave a free and unsolicited exhibition of his skill in the use of firearms by discharging the contents of his revolver through the office floor. A night in the cooler took all the crookedness out of him, when he went on his way rejoicing.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 14, 1880.
Mr. Smalley left his team standing harnessed to the wagon near the depot last Monday. The cars came along, the horses took fright, and ran away. They were caught in front of the city hotel after up-ending someone who tried to stop them on south Summit street. No damage sustained.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 21, 1880.
                                                        SUNDAY’S WIND.

Last Sunday was a day long to be remembered by the citizens of Arkansas City. The morning promised a nice day, but soon the wind began to blow at a lively rate from the south and by noon had almost reached a gale, changing to the west. Its fury did not abate until near sundown, when it changed around to the north and became more calm.
In looking over the damage done, we find it extends pretty well over the City. During the entire day the air was dense with flying sand and dust.
The awning in front of the Newman building and Schiffbauer Bros. store was blown to pieces; and in falling, broke five of the large plate glass in the front, which cost $15 each, beside the glass in the door.
A dwelling in the northeast of town was unroofed. A shed in the rear of Brooks livery barn was lifted over into the street and demolished. A flying board came in contact with a window in the City Hotel, which was crushed to atoms. The rafters on Lafe McLaughlin’s new residence at the west end of Fourth Avenue, were badly careened. A shade tree on north Summit street was twisted off and landed out in the street. The loose lumber at the lumber yards was picked up by the wind and promiscuously scattered around. Numerous outbuildings were decapitated, upset, or otherwise more or less damaged. Many of the buildings in town were shaken to such a degree as to seriously alarm the occupants, and not a few were hastily propped against impending danger.
Take it all in all, Sunday can be put down as a windy day, and one it is to be hoped the like of which may not again soon visit Southern Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 9, 1880.
We take pleasure in chronicling the removal of Stacy Matlack to his new quarters in the corner brick situated on West Summit and Fifth Avenue, where he may always be found with a large and well selected stock of goods in his line, which will be sold at prices to suit all. Don’t forget the place: corner of West Summit Street and Fifth Avenue, opposite City hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 23, 1880
The new temperance billiard hall in the basement of the City Hotel is now open, under the management of Mr. L. D. Godfrey.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1880.
A quiet and select dance was had by the young folks last Monday night at the City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 25, 1880.
The City Hotel has been taxed almost beyond its capacity during the past few weeks. Somehow or other Mr. France has worked up an immense reputation for the best of food and treat­ment since his arrival, which accounts for his crowded house. Let it be wet or dry, hot or cold, France fills his regulars and transients “just as hard.”
Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880.
C. U. France had a run extraordinary, last Friday, finding one hundred and twenty-five people at the popular City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 8, 1880.
Mr. John D. Miles, agent of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians, with his son, Master Whit Miles, three daughters, and Miss Ella Campbell, were registered at the City Hotel last Friday.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 6, 1880.

The TRAVELER last week turned out quite a lot of job work for the popular City Hotel. Mr. France, its proprietor, has worked up an immense trade, to accommodate which he proposes building an addition to the present house this fall. He sets the best table ever furnished in Arkansas City, and leaves nothing undone for the comfort of his guests.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1880.
France, of the City Hotel, looks tired and careworn. Too many people wanting good chuck, and not sufficient room, is the cause of his troubles.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 24, 1880.
Mr. Charles Swarts, a cousin of the Swarts boys of this city, arrived from Abington, Illinois, last Thursday—just in time to take in the “set-down” at the City Hotel. By his genial ways and excellent music, he has walked right into the heart of our social circle, and our only regret is that he returns to his home this week.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 1, 1880.
There is to be a dance at the City Hotel tonight, given by the Young Men’s Social Club. No comment or further notice is necessary, as a good time is guaranteed, so the young ladies are reminded to hold themselves in readiness to “fix up and go ‘long.”
Arkansas City Traveler, December 1, 1880.
S. P. U.’s TAKE NOTICE. Members of the Stock Protective Union are requested to meet at the City Hotel in Arkansas City next Saturday, December 4, at 2 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of electing officers. A full attendance is necessary, and is expected.
                                          RUDOLPH HOFFMASTER, Captain.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880.
White Eagle, Standing Buffalo, Black Crow, White Swan, Harry Bear, Big Chief, Big Soldier, Child Chief, Red Leaf, and one other gentleman whose name we could not make out, registered at the City Hotel last Saturday.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880.
The Central Avenue and City hotels have been indulging in a little friendly rivalry during the past week, in the way of holding out inducements to the traveling public. Mr. Roland, of the Central, started the ball by running a free omnibus to and from the depot for the benefit of his customers, and was immedi­ately met by Mr. France, mine host of the City, who runs a free bus for his transients and day boarders alike. It has been generally supposed that none but editors worked gratuitously, and this exceptional instance makes us feel more at home in the world. The best of feeling prevails among the landlords, but we imagine neither one is making much money by this new departure.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 12, 1881.
France, of the City Hotel, says he likes to have a good run and all that, but it is too much of a good thing to have his house so full, on these cold nights, that he has to sit up until daylight in order to accommodate his customers.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 26, 1881.
Mr. Peter Wyckoff has resigned his position as head of the industrial school at Pawnee Agency, which he has held for the past fourteen months, and with his wife and son is now boarding at the City hotel in this city. They are genial, whole-souled people, are well pleased with this country, and we trust may conclude to remain with us.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881.

On the noon train last Friday was a woman with three chil­dren in tow. As appearances did indicate, she had once been the possessor of a dutiful husband, but ever since the ides of September, he had absented himself from the family fireside, leaving her to bear the chilling blasts of Missouri in lonely widowhood. Some few weeks since she received letters from him, dated at Arkansas City, in which she was informed that he was sick—very sick—but hoped to recover soon sufficiently to earn a few paltry dollars—his intended disposition of which, however, he failed to specify.
Like a true wife, she yearned for him, and gathering her brood under her wing, she started forthwith for Arkansas City, bent on nursing her drooping dove back to “life and use, and name and fame.” Arriving at the City hotel, she gave her name as Freemyer (which she could neither write nor spell), saying she was “all the way from Hopkins.” Learning that the object of her search was in the city, apparently alive and well, a warrant for his arrest was sworn out and handed to Marshal Sinnott, who found the truant husband “keeping house” with the charming Martha Washington, whose “do drop in” is situated half way between town and the depot. Freemyer was very glad to see his “sure, sure” wife, and immediately sold his team and declared his intention of returning with her. The happy family departed on the next train for the classic shades of Hopkins, Missouri. Poor Martha.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 9, 1881
Charley France, of the popular City Hotel, nearly stuffed his boarders to death yesterday, because of the unexpected arrival of his brother. We never kick.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 30, 1881.
Charley France has rented the Central Avenue hotel building, and will fit up the rooms therein for the accommodation of his increased patronage. C. U. is a popular landlord, in every way meriting success.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 30, 1881.
Mr. Godfrey’s temperance billiard hall, under the City hotel, is enjoying a prosperous career. No drinking of liquor was allowed in this room even before the constitutional amendment presented itself as an obstacle, a good quality of cigars being the only article of refreshment kept by the proprietor.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 13, 1881.
C. U. France, our justly popular hotel man, has taken charge of the Central Avenue Hotel, and will run the same in connection with the City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 25, 1881.
Mrs. Philbrook, with her daughters, left on Monday for Maine, where they will in the future reside. These ladies have been connected with the City Hotel during the past year, and have made many friends, who wish them well for the future.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 1, 1881.
Mr. Cassell, of Mattoon, Illinois, is making his home at the City Hotel this summer with his relative, C. U. France. We hope the change may be beneficial to Mr. Cassell’s health.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 8, 1881.
C. U. France, mine host of the City Hotel, is kept real busy ministering to the wants of the many travelers which every train brings to this deservedly popular caravansary.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 31, 1881.
The impromptu hop at the City hotel, on Monday night, was an enjoyable affair. We hope this may be but the commencement of a long series of joyous meetings.

Arkansas City Traveler, August 31, 1881.
                                                            THE PISTOL.
                                                      The Bullet vs. Rocks.
On Monday morning a fuss took place between Bill Baxter and W. C. Baird, clerk of the City hotel, the cassus belli being a dime smoke furnished Baxter, and for which he refused to pay. Several compliments of a highly personal character were indulged in, after which a tournament, in which two shots were fired, transpired. W. C. Baird handled the pop, but without damage to his assailant, who promptly gathered a rock and went for Baird. The “bad man” grasped the situation and fled for refuge, and, in the words of a bystander, made his coat tail crack in his effort to make good time. A warrant was taken out for Baird, who was arrested and taken before Judge Bonsall, who bound him over to appear at 1 o’clock yesterday. When the time for trial came, he turned up missing, and thus forfeited his bail of $100.00.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 28, 1881.
All the ice in town has been exhausted and the City Hotel has to be supplied from Winfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 5, 1881.
                                                   DR. W. F. STANDIFORD,
who has had ten year’s experience in the treatment of chronic diseases, will make his headquarters at the City Hotel, in Arkansas City, until his Sanitarium is completed at Geuda Springs. He will be pleased to consult and advise any who wish to visit the Springs for treatment.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 8, 1882.
The arrivals at the City Hotel, on Thursday last, numbered thirty.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 15, 1882.
Washingtonian Supper at the City Hotel Friday next at 6 p.m.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 15, 1882.
Col. O. P. Johnson and wife, who have been guests at the City Hotel, left on the 3 o’clock train yesterday for the north-east part of the State.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 22, 1882.
The oyster supper given by the ladies of the Presbyterian church, at the City Hotel last Thursday evening, was a grand success and well attended. The clear proceeds amounted to over $80; and will be applied to the incidental debt of the church. The ladies, by their energy and hard work, well deserved the success they achieved.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 29, 1882.
Mr. and Mrs. C. M. France and son started for their home, at Toledo, Ohio, last Saturday, after spending quite a lengthened visit to their relative, our Charley France, the popular ramrod of the City Hotel. The trip to Kansas was made in the hope that their little son, an invalid, would be benefitted by the climate, and the hope, to a certain extent, was verified.
We sincerely hope that the improvement here inaugurated may end in complete convalescence.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 12, 1882.

A little farewell musical gathering was held at the City Hotel, last Friday evening. The hostess, Mrs. Sales, is a fine musician and vocalist, who has been staying in the city for some months for the benefit of her health; she is returning to her home in Maine.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1882.
The flagging for the new sidewalk in front of the City Hotel is already on the ground, and will be put down immediately.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 17, 1882.
The work of laying the new stone sidewalk in front of the City Hotel is now in progress.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 24, 1882.
With pleasure we record the return of Mr. Cassell, of Mattoon, Illinois, to this city. He intends, we understand, to permanently locate and take charge of the City Hotel. Mr. Cassell is a whole-souled, genial gentleman and with such a landlord, the house is bound to be a success in every sense of the word.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 7, 1882.
Charley France, late of the City Hotel at this place, is now at the Buttrey House, Wellington.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 21, 1882.
The new porch and awning in front of the City Hotel is a boss institution.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1882.
Hacks will be run by Messrs. Hilliard, Patterson, & Co., of the Star Livery Stable, to and from the City Hotel and Godfrey’s Grove on July 4th, at short intervals during the day.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1882.
The awning of the City Hotel shaded the browned countenances of more sheep men last Saturday than we have seen together for some time. There was Andrews, of the placid Grouse creek; Fouts, of the wild Willows; Johns, from the historic Shilocco; Cole, from the romantic Bodoc; Saunders, of High Prairie; Rogers, of Endless View Ranche; Phraner, from Ponca Trail; and Scott, of the State line; while on the street was Majors Harnly, Stewart, and Maxwell. Knott had taken his departure the day before or he would have been there. Wool, tariff, scab, and coyotes were generally cussed and discussed until the supper call scattered them like a bombshell. They were all hungry.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 13, 1882.
Agent Miles and wife were registered at the City Hotel for several days last week, returning to their home on Friday.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 13, 1882.
The City Hotel has been crowded with guests the past few weeks. Mr. Cassell is a successful hotel man, and his motto seems to be, “I’ll do more than command success—I’ll deserve it.”
Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1882.
One of the “Old Soldiers” returned from Topeka Saturday night last. As he was airing himself the next morning in front of the City Hotel, a small snake appeared on the sidewalk close by. The soldier eyed it; ran his hands through his hair, looked about and said: “Boys, I’m all right, ain’t I? “Why yes, why?” “If I hadn’t just returned from the State Fair, I’d swear that was a snake.”
Arkansas City Traveler, September 27, 1882.

Messrs. Copple & Dunn, our new transfer men, come out in a card this week, and we bespeak for them the patronage of our people. They will aim to meet all requirements in their line, and at the lowest possible rates.
CARD: Arkansas City Transfer Company. The undersigned desire to inform the people of Arkansas City that they are prepared to do a general transfer and jobbing business, and solicit the patronage of the public. COPPLE & DUNN, Office in City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 25, 1882.
One of the nobbiest among the turnouts of our city is the family carriage of Mr. Cassell, the popular landlord of the City Hotel, which makes an appearance that would hold its own in Central Park, New York. It is just fresh from the hands of Maidt, our carriage painter, and does him much credit as a sample of the work he can do.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 8, 1882.
The City Hotel has changed hands.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1882.
Mr. McIntire, of Independence, Kansas, has purchased the furniture and fixtures of the City Hotel, and will have control of it hereafter.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1882.
                                               A Surprise and Farewell Party.
Monday evening last witnessed one of the most enjoyable affairs ever held in this City. All the young folks gathered at the City Hotel to bid goodbye to the Misses Cassell, who left yesterday for their old home in Mattoon, Illinois. After a good social time for an hour or so, they repaired to the Central Avenue and tripped the light fantastic till a late hour. Thanks to the hospitality of the Misses Cassell, all enjoyed themselves and went home feeling sad that Arkansas City should lose three of its fairest young ladies. During the time that they were in Arkansas City, they made many friends, and while it is rough on the young men to see them go, the girls will miss them equally as much, while Arkansas City society loses three of its most bril­liant ornaments.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 20, 1882.
D. C. McIntire, landlord of the City Hotel, was sick for several days with hemorrhage of the stomach, but is better at this writing.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 3, 1883.
We were glad to see Mr. D. C. McIntire, of the City Hotel, on our streets again last Friday. We hope his present convalescence may speedily give place to complete recovery from his sickness.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 10, 1883.
Mr. McIntire, proprietor of the City Hotel, is still in bed.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 31, 1883.
We are glad to note that D. C. McIntire, the landlord of the City Hotel, is reported to be on the improve.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1883.
D. C. McIntire, of our “City Hotel,” is now staying at Geuda Springs. We hope he may receive benefit from their healing waters.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 11, 1883.

                                                           THE LELAND.
The City Hotel, of this city, is a thing of the past, its name having been changed as above. Messrs. Nipp & Patterson last week purchased Mr. McIntire’s interest in the house and have placed Mr. R. E. Grubbs in charge of the same as manager, and as he is chuck full of energy, an old hand at the business, and solid with “the boys on the road,” we confidently look for the Leland to take its place among the first-class hotels of the Southwest.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1883.
Capt. J. B. Nipp was in the city Monday. He has taken control of the old City Hotel at Arkansas City, changed the name to “The Leland,” and will build up a big hotel in our sister city. Courier.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 25, 1883.
We succeeded in ensconcing our feet under the Leland Hotel mahogany the other day and were agreeably surprised at the happy manner of R. E. Grubbs in introducing us to one of the best and most appetizing menus we have enjoyed in a long while. The Leland is fast becoming one of the institutions of our city.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 16, 1883.
Notice. Eye and Ear Infirmary. Drs. Wm. and V. McMullen, Physicians & Surgeons in charge, will visit Arkansas City this week, prepared to treat in a scientific manner all diseases of the eye, ear, nose, and throat. Spectacles adjusted to suit all sights. Office at Leland Hotel. Consultation free.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 30, 1883.
                                                        Select Knights Ball.
The ball and supper given by the select Knights A. O. U. W. in this city last Wednesday evening, was, owing to the unfavorable state of the weather, not so largely attended as was expected, although quite a number of our people took part in the festivities. The arrangements were first class, and all present will bear testimony to the enjoyable time had till near 3 o’clock in the morning. The supper which was elegantly gotten up was served at the Leland Hotel, and Mr. A. W. Patterson, the genial landlord, deserves credit for the best layout of the season.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 30, 1883.
                                                  DISSOLUTION NOTICE.
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned have this day dissolved partnership in the Mammoth Livery Stable and Leland Hotel business by mutual consent. All accounts against the Leland Hotel are assumed and will be settled by A. W. Patterson and all accounts against the Mammoth Livery Stable are assumed and will be settled by J. B. Nipp.
Signed: JAS. B. NIPP, A. W. PATTERSON. Arkansas City, Kansas, May 11th, 1883.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, June 20, 1883.
                                                            Sudden Death.

DIED. On Wednesday morning of last week about 7 o’clock, Howard, the colored porter at the Leland Hotel, died suddenly of heart disease. He had been more or less affected with dangerous symptoms for several months past. It appears that the diseased arose feeling as well as usual and went about his morning work and was engaged in the kitchen when stricken by the hand of death to the floor from which he in vain attempted to rise, staggering and falling again at every attempt. Mr. Patterson, the landlord, sent for Dr. Chapel and in the meanwhile Howard was carried upstairs, but expired in about ten minutes despite all that could be done by the attending physician. The young man by reason of his courteous and pleasant manners was a general favorite with all and his untimely taking off is much deplored. The burial took place the same day from the residence of Mr. J. Hand, and Rev. Daily preached his funeral sermon last Sunday at the Guthrie schoolhouse in West Bolton.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1883.
A list of the telephones in our city with their respective numbers and location will be found in this issue.
                    LIST OF TELEPHONE INSTRUMENTS IN ARKANSAS CITY.
                                                           11. Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1883.
The contract for the addition to the Leland Hotel has been let to Mr. Wm. Canfield, the same to be completed by the 5th of July, 1883.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 20, 1883.
                                                     Leland Hotel Addition.
The new addition to the Leland Hotel, we are informed by Mr. Patterson, will be commenced at once. It will be 24 x 50 feet, two stories high, giving on the first floor a main office 14 x 30 feet and two 12 x 20 feet sample rooms, while upstairs there will be seven large and elegantly fitted bedrooms. We congratulate Mr. Patterson on his enterprise and wish him the success he deserves.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 27, 1883.
The new addition to the Leland Hotel will be completed by the 25th of July, 1883.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1883.
Mr. Ed. Grady, of the Arkansas City Lumber Yard, supplies the bill for the new Leland Hotel addition.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1883.
A. W. Patterson has secured the services of Mr. and Mrs. White to assist him in the Leland Hotel. Mr. White is well known and immensely popular with all the boys on the road. Good.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 18, 1883.
                                               TELEPHONE DIRECTORY.
                                                            9. Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 1, 1883.
Forty-four transients registered at the Leland Hotel last Monday and it was not an extra good day either.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 8, 1883.
The Leland Hotel, under the management of its genial landlord, is rapidly gaining favor with the traveling public, if we may judge from the bus loads that are daily participants of its good cheer. “Pat” as a landlord is a success, so say all the “boys on the road.”
Excerpt from long article...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 22, 1883.
                                                        ARKANSAS CITY.

Maj. Patterson, who, by the way, is one of the best hotel men in the state, and who caters with a lavishness that merges almost to profligacy, finds his room becoming circumscribed, and has gone to work and built a large two-story addition, 30 x 50 feet to the Leland, which he will finish and furnish, making it among the best hotels in this part of the state. The Leland already has a splendid reputation gained under the management of Maj. Patterson, and when he gets into his new quarters, there can be no doubt that he will entertain the boys royally.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 29, 1883.
The Leland. The new addition to the above hotel is now completed, and the new office and sample rooms are equal to any in the West. The upper rooms are handsomely fitted and furnished, and in all its appointments, the house is first-class and up to the times.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 5, 1883.
Messrs. Allen & Braggins last week completed the painting of the new addition to the Leland hotel, and of course did a “boss” job. The lettering upon the office windows in particular does them much credit.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 26, 1883.
A barber shop on the premises is one of the attractions of the Leland Hotel at this writing.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 26, 1883.
Those nobby gold letters on the office windows of the Leland Hotel were put on by Messrs. Allen & Braggins, the “Boss” painters, and are just the tastiest sign in town.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 17, 1883.
It is quite phenomenal the patronage that flocks to the Leland Hotel these days. The genial landlord and the well-served tables we presume are responsible though.
                             Patterson Becomes Sole Proprietor of Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 7, 1883.
“Mine host” of the Leland, A. W. Patterson, has given most substantial proof of his success in catering to the public and of his confidence in the commercial metropolis of Southern Kansas. Last week he purchased of Mr. Henry Tisdale the Leland Hotel property, consisting of three lots and buildings thereon, for the sum of $5,500, which leaves him sole proprietor of the property, which has so long drawn tribute from this city. A. W. has always made a success of whatever he undertook, and in his admirable management of the Leland has fully sustained his reputation as a thorough, enterprising businessman. The public may look for better satisfaction than ever now.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1883.
C. U. France is once more at the Leland Hotel. Charley would draw trade in the middle of a desert, so great is his popularity.
[LELAND HOUSE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 14, 1883.
The new register of the Leland house is the finest ever brought to this city, and looks large enough to accommodate the Palmer house custom. The advertisements are well set and prominent, giving all the advertisers an equal show, and altogether it is a credit to the manufacturers, the city, and the flourishing hotel whose name it bears.
[LELAND HOTEL: CHANGE IN MANAGEMENT.]

Arkansas City Traveler, November 21, 1883.
Hotel Change. The widely known and popular hotel man, Charley France, last Monday took charge of the Leland, leasing the same of Mr. Patterson. Charley takes hold of a good business, and is the best man in Southern Kansas to manage the large and increasing patronage of the Leland, having had valuable experience at Wichita, Wellington, and Arkansas City during the past five years. C. U. will spare no pains to sustain the high reputation of this popular hotel. His success is certain.
                       J. L. HUEY PURCHASES LELAND HOTEL PROPERTY.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 28, 1883.
J. L. Huey last Monday purchased the Leland Hotel property, consisting of the building and three lots. So long as the present lease holds good, no change will be made; but at the expiration of the lease, Mr. Huey contemplates the erection of a substantial business block, with seventy-five feet front. This is a fine corner, and will prove a most excellent investment for the Creswell Bank.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 5, 1883.
Mr. Neff, of Winfield, is sharing the patronage of the Leland house, having gone into partnership with C. U. France.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 5, 1883.
The Leland house gave an immense Thanksgiving dinner last Thursday, the tables fairly groaning beneath their weight of edibles.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 26, 1883.
A Card. The ladies of the Baptist Church desire to tender their sincere thanks to all those ladies who so kindly assisted them in making their supper last week the success it undoubtedly was, and in doing so assure them should occasion offer, it shall not be forgotten.
                                                            COMMITTEE.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 26, 1883.
The military dance at the opera house under the auspices of the A. V. G.’s, Christmas eve, was well attended and a most enjoyable time resulted. All arrangements were well made, the utmost order preserved, and we presume all enjoyed themselves. An elegant supper was served at the Leland, which was generally partaken of.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.
DIED. Charles Peck, a young man about 27 years of age, came here from Webb City, Missouri, some three weeks ago and applied to Pink Fouts for work at the Willow Springs. He started to work, but was taken sick with malaria fever and forced to come to the state for treatment. As soon as his fever was broken, he returned to Willow Springs, but was almost immediately taken down with a severe case of locked bowels, and returned to the state. Everything possible in the way of medical attention was done for the unfortunate stranger, and the best of treatment rendered him at the Leland Hotel, where he was being cared for, but on last Sunday evening death put an end to his sufferings. He was buried Monday afternoon at the expense of the county, it being the deceased’s wish that his relatives should know nothing about the affair until after his body was disposed of.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.

The leap year ball given by the ladies of Arkansas City last Friday night, in honor of Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Channell, was a most delightful affair. Although the night was bitterly cold—the coldest experienced in this latitude for years—the Highland opera house was filled by the elite of our society, attesting their esteem for our honored visitors, and proving conclusively that “when a woman will, she will.” Messrs. Hoyt, Speers, and Griffith furnished the best of music, which was seconded by the good calling of “mine host,” C. U. France, of the Leland. The ladies deserve great credit for the success of the entertainment, and for the good judgment displayed in inaugurating a system of earlier hours for meeting and adjourning.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 12, 1884.
MARRIAGE PERFORMED. Our new justice of the peace, F. P. Schiffbauer, performed his first official work last Sunday, marrying a colored couple at the Leland House. Frank says they looked as though they felt as good as white people.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1884.
Mr. A. W. Patterson informs us he will assume control of the Leland Hotel tomorrow and invites everybody to come and eat dinner with him. Pat is too well known by everybody for us to say anything, but will take in the dinner, all the same.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1884.
A. W. Patterson and family returned from Michigan Monday. Pat will at once assume control of the Leland, he says, giving it his personal supervision. He only weighs 212 pounds, but we trust his health will improve in balmy Southern Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, April 12, 1884.
Last Thursday Col. Neff retired from the management of the Leland Hotel, and A. W. Patterson assumed control. The new proprietor celebrated the event with an excellent free dinner to all who chose to accept his hospitality.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
Some 230 persons took dinner at the Leland house in this city last Thursday. A. W. Patterson assumed control of the house on that day, which fully accounts for the above handsome showing.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
                                                        The Leland Opening.
As announced in last week’s TRAVELER, the Leland was opened under the management of its former proprietor, A. W. Patterson, on last Thursday, and everybody was invited to the noonday feast, which was as free as the water of life—without money and without price.

A. W. has a well merited reputation as a landlord in this country, and the news that he was once more at the head of this favorite resort was hailed with pleasure by the lovers of good eating and courteous treatment. Some two hundred and thirty partook of the Leland’s hospitality last Thursday. With one voice the guests pronounced it the best dinner ever served in this city. Mine host says that he will have such dinners every day now, with equally palatable morning and evening meals. There is no denying that “Pat” is what is generally known as a rustler for business, and if setting good tables with everything that money can buy, having it well cooked and well served, and looking after the convenience of guests, will avail anything, the Leland will certainly be crowded. It was during Mr. Patterson’s regime that the new part of the Leland was built, which furnishes the best of accommodations for the traveling public, and now that he has once more assumed control, we bespeak for him the success he merits.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 23, 1884.
The TRAVELER office last week turned out job work to the amount of $50 for A. W. Patterson of the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 23, 1884.
Our grocerymen, McLaughlin Bros., last week sold to A. W. Patterson, of the Leland, for the month of April, goods to the amount of $300. Somebody evidently eats once in awhile at the Leland.
Arkansas City Republican, May 31, 1884.
Dr. M. G. Jones, who recently opened a real estate office in the Leland has rented the store room of the D. W. Stevens’ property, and expects to place therein a large stock of clothing. The Doctor is a very pleasant and genial gentleman, and will doubtless soon secure a fine trade.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1884.
Quite a number of Winfield parties visited the Indian school on the Chilocco last Sunday, taking dinner and supper at the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1884.
A. W. Patterson has the nobbiest turnout in town in the way of a fine buggy and harness. Hotel business is evidently good at the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 14, 1884.
The neighboring towns had an exodus last Saturday, all their pleasure going people driving to Arkansas City. About seventy-five visited our growing metropolis, all taking dinner and supper at the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 16, 1884.
Seventy-eight transients registered at the Leland Hotel last Monday, which for an off day and in addition to their regular boarders, is pretty good evidence of the popularity of this hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 23, 1884.
The Leland House dog has had his tail cut off. It would have been better to muzzle the brute, according to orders from the council.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
W. T. Kitchen is now lending his influence to the ever popular Leland Hotel. Pat has a happy faculty for securing all the popular hotel men at the Leland.
                                                   Change Made at Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 20, 1884.
Yesterday afternoon the Leland house changed hands, Messrs. Ward and Perry taking charge thereof. Under Mr. Patterson’s management, it was a very popular resort and the new proprietors are to be congratulated upon securing such an excellent business. Messrs. Perry and Ward are both well known, and will fully sustain the Leland’s good name. Mr. D. T. Kitchen is retained as manager. No surer step could have been taken to secure the immense commercial trade of this house.
                                         Addition To Be Built to Leland Hotel.

Arkansas City Republican, August 23, 1884.
H. H. Perry is again in the hotel business. For the past ten days he has been as uneasy as a fish out of water. He went abroad to find a suitable location, but returned thoroughly convinced that Arkansas City is the best place in the world after all. Accordingly he purchased the appurtenances of the Leland and moved in. His ambition is such that the present quarters will not suit him, so he has contracted to have an addition built to the already spacious building. The new part will be 25 x 40 feet and two stories high, and will contain twelve commercial rooms. We are glad this gentleman is again in our circle and wish him the best of success.
Arkansas City Republican, August 30, 1884.
A. V. Alexander has recovered his diamond pin advertised “lost” in last week’s REPUBLICAN. It was found in the parlors of the Leland by H. H. Perry last Saturday and promptly returned to the owner.
Arkansas City Republican, August 30, 1884.
E. N. Wilson, a miller from the east, has been employed by V. M. Ayres. The increase of work demanded it. Mr. Wilson has his wife here and is stopping at the Leland.
Arkansas City Republican, September 6, 1884.
Wm. Hill, of Carthage, Missouri, is visiting his brother-in-law, H. H. Perry, of the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 10, 1884.
Wm. DeLesdernier, recently manager of the Leland Hotel, has been appointed clerk at the Chilocco industrial school. He commenced on his new duties last Monday.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 10, 1884.
In another column will be seen the special notice of Mrs. E. N. Wilson. Mrs. Wilson is an accomplished and thorough instructor in music, both vocal and instrumental. Moreover, she is the composer of many pieces that have taken high rank in musical productions. The art of music cannot be too highly cultivated, and in this city of refinement and culture, Mrs. Wilson should receive a generous patronage. She can be found at the Leland Hotel.
Ad. Music Teacher. Mrs. E. N. Wilson, late of Missouri, a graduate of Beethoven’s Conservatory of Music, is at the Leland. She comes with a number of first-class recommendations, and we feel safe in recommending her to our readers as an efficient and successful teacher. We have read a very fine letter of recommendation from Prof. J. J. Iglehart, superintendent of city schools and principal of public schools of Columbia, Missouri, Mrs. Wilson having taught music in said schools.
Arkansas City Republican, September 13, 1884.
The work on the Leland Hotel addition has commenced. The first floor will be used for a dining room.
Arkansas City Republican, September 13, 1884.
F. F. Bennett, F. Moore, and M. Wallers, of the U. S. Army, which is camped on the Chicaskia River, in the Territory, were registered at the Leland Thursday.
Arkansas City Republican, September 13, 1884.

W. T. Kitchen has resigned his position as clerk at the Leland. C. E. Ward will assist Mr. Perry until the return of his brother-in-law, Wm. Hill, from the territory, who will then be duly installed as clerk of the Leland.
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
LELAND HOTEL, H. H. PERRY, PROPRIETOR, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
             GOOD SAMPLE ROOMS. BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE CITY.
                               Special attention given to Commercial and Stock Men.
The Leland, since Mr. Perry has taken hold of it, has been thoroughly renovated and repainted. Everything “Neat and Tidy.”
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
John Florer was up from the territory Tuesday, and his talk on the Oklahoma country to a visitor attracted quite a crowd in front of the Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1884.
The old dining room of the Leland is to be used for a laundry.
                                                  New Dining Hall at Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 15, 1884.
The Leland Hotel opened up its new dining hall last Sunday in grand style, setting forth a dinner fit for the gods. The new addition to the Leland, just completed, gives Mr. Perry fifteen more large and commodious rooms for the accommodation of the traveling public, which is much needed. We hate to bid good-bye to the old dining room, which has fed so many thousands during the last fourteen years, but improvement is the order of the day in Arkansas City, and the people will soon accustom themselves to their new place of eating.
Arkansas City Republican, October 18, 1884.
The Leland Hotel addition is completed. Sunday mine host Perry gave his initiatory meal. About 75 guests were there to refresh the inner man. The dining room is now of sufficient size to accommodate any sized crowd. It is now being papered, and when completed will look so snug and cozy as to remind one of the dining rooms “at home.”
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
Leland Hotel has a new register.
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
J. A. McCormick, of Darlington, Indian Territory, was registered at the Leland the first of the week.
Arkansas City Republican, November 8, 1884.
W. I. French, of Ponca Agency, adorned the Leland Hotel registry Tuesday with his hieroglyphics.
Arkansas City Republican, November 15, 1884.
J. D. Griffith, Maj. McClure, C. W. Fort, and Harry Cole, state board of underwriters, were here yesterday to establish the rate of insurance in Arkansas City. In the evening our insurance men banqueted them at the Leland Hotel. Oysters and other delicacies of the season were served in magnificent style. Our gentlemanly insurance agents thoroughly understand the art of entertaining.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
H. H. Perry, of the Leland, added another feather to his already well decorated cap, on the occasion of the banquet last Friday night. It far exceeded the expectation of the guests and was an honor to Arkansas City.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1884.
Still our busses are loaded down every day with new arrivals—while a large majority of the people walk up, stringing from the Leland to the depot.
Arkansas City Republican, December 6, 1884.
A social hop was given in the Leland Hotel Wednesday evening last. It was arranged by the ladies of Arkansas City. The crowd was select and therefore the dance a success. Good music was furnished, and all had an enjoyable time. The dancing was in the dining room, which Mr. Perry has prepared for the occasion.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 10, 1884.
Those who attended the party at the Leland Hotel last Wednesday evening are loud in their praises of the excellent time enjoyed. Anything Mrs. Sipes and Mrs. Heck put their hands to must necessarily be a success.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 17, 1884.
Dow McClain, special pension examiner, from Wichita, Kansas, arrived Tuesday. He is here to look up some parties claiming pensions, and any person who may wish to see him in regard to pensions will find him at the Leland Hotel for a day or so.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 24, 1884.
The Leland force are now decorated with caps and badges.
Arkansas City Republican, December 27, 1884.
                                                             H. H. PERRY
is the proprietor of the Leland Hotel. The festive season always brings many citizens of the country to town, on business or pleasure bent, and at such a time it is not pleasant to sleep out doors, or to go home hungry. The well fed and handsome landlord of the Leland Hotel is the best testimonial of the excellence of the culinary department, while his neat and comfortable rooms show for themselves.
Arkansas City Republican, January 3, 1885.
New Year’s night at the Leland Hotel a select dance was given. It was gotten up by Messrs. Cunningham, Levy, Alexander, Hilliard, and others. There was a large attendance and an evening of merriment was had. All enjoyed themselves hugely.
Arkansas City Republican, January 3, 1885.
MARRIED. Russell Cowles turned over a new leaf, January 1, 1885. He was united in marriage to Miss Jennie Reynolds by Rev. N. S. Buckner at the residence of Dr. Alexander. New Year’s night Russell “called” for the social “hop” at the Leland. No sentimentality lingers in Mr. Cowles’ breast.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
The ball at the Leland Hotel Thursday evening was said to be one of the most enjoyable of the season. This of course goes without saying, with the following committees.
Committee on arrangements: S. Matlack, G. W. Cunningham, and A. V. Alexander.
Committee on invitation: Mrs. A. V. Alexander, Mrs. J. W. Heck, and Miss Gatwood.
Committee on music: Al. Levy.
Arkansas City Republican, January 10, 1885.

The Navigation company assembled in the parlors of the Leland Hotel Wednesday and talked over the scheme of navigating the Arkansas. Mr. Wood, of Wood & Bliss of Winfield, was in attendance. The company empowered Jas. Hill with a permit to have a propelling boat constructed immediately, and we understand that Mr. Hill will go east for that purpose next week. Soon he will know our fate. The river has been surveyed and Mr. Moorhead says emphatically that a boat can be run on the Arkansas. By the time navigation is opened up, we will be ready for our pork packing establishment. Messrs. Prescott, Duncan & Barnett want to be looking a “leetle out,” or our steamboat will whistle before they are ready to ship their pork to the southwest.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
Ward & Weaver, Attorneys-at-law, is the card that adorned the Leland Hotel windows Sunday.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
Messrs. Wood, of Winfield, Ayres, Mead, Landes, Beall, and Sleeth met at the Leland Hotel Wednesday last, to perfect drawings and specifications for the Arkansas River boat, soon to be built in St. Louis. The size of this boat will be 16 feet wide and 75 feet long, being forty horsepower. The boat will be completed in about sixty days.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 24, 1885.
A man by the name of Copeland was in town the first of the week. From Copeland’s action we should judge him to be a crank or a villain. He came from near Indianapolis, and as S. F. [?] Steinberger came from the same region, an acquaintance soon sprang up. He seemed very anxious to invest in real estate, and picked out several lots which he said he would take. He did not pay out any money here to hold his bargain, as he did at Wichita; he failed to swindle anyone that way. At Wichita he bought a farm and paid $10 down and received his deed. He then went out of the real estate office and rented the farm to a man for $250 a year, receiving $50 cash. As he could not give a clear title, the renter backed out, the loser of his $50. Copeland was arrested but in some manner he was acquitted. Here he swindled Mr. Steinberger out of $10. He tried to beat Johnnie Hill of the Leland out of $3 and A. G. Heitkam out of $500 and failed. When last seen he was going north on Summit Street and it is generally supposed that he made his exit from Arkansas City by walking.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1885.
Some wicked cowboy perpetrated a cruel joke on one of the “Jennie Bowen” combination. Wm. Davis, the “kid” of the troupe, is a Welshman who has never before been out West, and cowboys and Indians were “them be queer critters,” to him. His greenness in this line was so prominent it stuck out far enough to hang an overcoat on. Several cowboys, who were staying at the Leland, soon caught on; and while they were in the washroom, suddenly turned on Davis and ordered, “Hands up.” It is needless to say that hands went up, and heart too. His knees knocked together like dry limbs in a gale as he looked in the barrels of two “bull-dog” revolvers. After a little loud talk, they told him he could go. He went. Afterwards we asked him if he was scared. “Scared!” he said, “well I should remark.”
Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1885.
While in our city last week, General Hatch was a guest of the Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 4, 1885.
A raffle for a horse was held at the Leland Hotel Tuesday. The highest number was thrown by J. W. Patterson, being 40. The horse is worth $125, and the throws were $5 each.

Arkansas City Republican, March 7, 1885.
Last Wednesday evening, Adjutant Finley left a lighted lamp in his room, No. 15, at the Leland Hotel and went out. During his absence the lamp exploded, setting fire to the carpet and bed clothing. Lodgers in the next room were attracted to the scene of the would-be conflagration by the smell of burning clothing and hastily extinguished it.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
The impromptu dance at the Leland Saturday night was a most pleasant gathering. The excellent music dispersed by the Italian players was duly appreciated, and the evening was delightfully spent.
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
Saturday a couple of Italian musicians were in the city and at night they furnished music for a select dance held at the Leland.
Note: The following had direct bearing on the future of the Leland Hotel...
                                    Johnson Loan and Trust Company Formed.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 11, 1885.
Thursday morning the Johnson Loan and Trust Company was formed. The company starts off with a cash capital of $100,000. The incorporators are: A. B. Johnson, J. P. Johnson, A. D. Prescott, H. P. Farrar, Maj. W. M. Sleeth, Calvin Dean, J. L. Huey, and C. A. Howard. The company is formed for the purpose of making loans on real estate and to negotiate loans in the New England states. Several of the incorporators reside in that section. The company’s office will be in the vacant room in the rear portion of the Cowley County Bank building. They will be ready for business about May 1, 1885.
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
Maj. C. E. Rainwater, of St. Louis, the man who painted Gov. Marmaduke’s character black, registered at the Leland Wednesday.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 18, 1885.
                                                            Hotel Registers.
The Leland shows the following arrivals.
MONDAY: G. W. Schmidt, City; Parker & Waters, Denver, Colorado; J. A. Bradfield, Kansas City; F. Huffman, Wellington; Jack Dunckell, Kansas City; Gus Denstelhorst, Saint Joe; G. D. Baker, Topeka; H. Morrill, Topeka; C. A. Duncan and wife, Chicago; J. C. Wilkinson, St. Paul; Geo. C. Lockwood, Topeka; Mrs. F. Wright, Winfield; J. H. Lyon, Kansas City; I. E. Kincaid, St. Louis; W. L. Finley, U. S. A.; L. C. Woodson, City; Joel Hamilton, Jr., Newton; O. E. Ferguson, Little Rock; Edward Hatch, U. S. A; Walter Inman, R. R.; Wright Moore, Eureka; Moses Waters, Ft. Riley; Jno. Power, Atchison; G. Revolon, St. Joe; Miss Whete, Kansas City; Geo. Noble, Lawrence; Jno. W. Parks, Indian Territory; E. N. Wilson, City; W. L. Norman, Indian Territory; I. O. Wilkinson, Thos. Murphy, Chas. Ellcoutt, Newton; John A Griffith, Wichita; J. M. Riddle, Rothwell, Missouri; W. W. Riddell, Rothwell, Missouri; C. G. Furry, Geuda; B. F. Butterfield, Kansas City.

TUESDAY: Dr. J. D. Love, City; Wm. D. Mitchell, Cincinnati; R. E. Howe, Maple city; A. Gilkey, Maple City; E. C. Francis, Chicago; R. Wenderoft, Chicago; S. L. Reckman, St. Joe; L. White, St. Joe; M. H. McAfee, Little Rock; C. L. Freeman, St. Louis; J. M. Weil, Buffalo; D. D. Knapp, Utica, New York; S. S. Bennicht, Hartford; Joe V. Hilger, Cincinnati; Chas. L. W. Campbell, Kansas City; T. S. Morehead, City; E. Hull, City; Jno. M. Hale, Osage Agency; W. H. Phelps, Ft. Worth; R. H. Colson, St. Louis; Mrs. J. G. Bullene and niece, Winfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 8, 1885.
The Leland Hotel has made quite an addition to the looks of its office, in the way of fine, new paper.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 15, 1885.
On Thursday evening just as the performances had closed at Highland Hall, the retiring spectators were treated to a free exhibition on the sidewalk. Two or three of our city guardians had a refractory prisoner in charge, and as he refused to be taken to jail, they were carrying him thither by their united efforts. The voice of the prisoner attracted a crowd, and the Leland Hotel was emptied of its guests as the stormy procession passed by. The offender was a colored teamster in the service of the quartermaster, and the next morning he was fined $2 and costs for too free indulgence in the ardent.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 22, 1885.
                                                      The Boomers Booming.
The Boomers are full of excitement. Capt. Couch returned from his mission to Washington Monday, and reported to his followers the result of his interview with Secretary Lamar. The substance of the conversation has been given as a press dispatch, and it certainly affords no encouragement to the Oklahoma colonists. After the matter was discussed at some length, a committee of thirteen (as we understood the number) was appointed to draft resolutions, and report to an adjourned meeting to be held at 10 a.m. yesterday. But it rained heavily all forenoon and no meeting was held. At noon the train brought in Hon. Sidney Clarke, who put up at the Leland House, and was instantly beset by boomers. A general talk over the situation was held, the outcome of which was an informal extension of the committee appointed the day previously to thirty-two—that being the number of states represented in the colony—and a postponement of the meeting till 9:30 o’clock this (Wednesday) morning. As the TRAVELER goes to press before the hour set for the meeting, we are unable to give a report of the proceedings. It is believed, however, that the present hopelessness of the case will be recognized, and that the colony will disperse to seek some way of living.
Arkansas City Republican, July 18, 1885.
H. H. Perry has leased the bath rooms in the Commercial Block and will run them in connection with the Leland Hotel. Baths given to both ladies and gentlemen.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 22, 1885.
W. W. Perry, mine host of the Leland, has leased the handsome bath rooms in the Hasie building, and now offers the luxury of a refreshing bath to all perspiring souls. Facilities are provided for ladies and gentlemen, the plumbing work faultless, and the supply of the limpid element unfailing. Good bath rooms have been a desideratum in this city, and now they are provided. We expect to see them liberally patronized.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 5, 1885.
H. H. Perry, of the Leland, put a range in his kitchen last week, bought in Chicago, of sufficient capacity, it would seem, to cook for the whole city.

Arkansas City Republican, August 8, 1885.
The fronts of the Leland Hotel and John Gibson’s barber shop have received a new coat of paint.
Arkansas City Republican, August 8, 1885.
Henry Asp, Judge Gans, and Sheriff McIntire came down yesterday from Winfield to investigate the liquor sales of our druggists. They were busily engaged in examining witnesses who had purchased intoxicants and the druggist’s records at the Leland Hotel, as we go to press. If anyone can be found guilty of violating the law, lightning will be sure to strike.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 9, 1885.
Geo. O. Griffins, chief clerk at the Osage Agency; E. M. Ganse, from the Sac & Fox Agency; R. K. Puckett, superintendent at the Kaw Agency; and W. J. Hodges, Ponca trader, registered at the Leland last Friday.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 23, 1885.
A. D. Perry, of Indianapolis, brother to mine host of the Leland, came to town on Friday, with his wife, and the pair stayed over Sunday with their relative. Mr. Perry’s business took him from town on Monday; but Mrs. Perry will prolong her visit here till her husband’s return.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 23, 1885.
Among the arrivals at the Leland Hotel on Monday, were J. F. McMillen, of Winfield; Horace Arthur, formerly of Ponca Agency, but now living in Topeka; Dr. F. J. Dent, of Ponca; J. E. Finney, of Finney, Schiffbauer & Co., the licensed traders at Grayhorse; and Joseph Soderstrom, of Osage Agency.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 28, 1885.
Capt. A. J. Hersey and Col. W. J. Pollock registered at the Leland yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 28, 1885.
                                                       VISITING SISTERS.
                   The Winfield Women’s Relief Corps Have a Pleasant Time in this City.
The ladies composing the Women’s Relief Corps of this city having spent a day with their sister corps in Winfield some weeks ago, and being royally entertained, have since been desirous to dispense similar hospitality; and on Saturday they had the pleasure of entertaining a score of their sister members, who on invitation came to spend the day with them. The little company arrived here shortly after noon, and were received in the G. A. R. Post room by a strong representation of the home corps, Mrs. President Ashman presiding. A welcoming address was made, which was followed by introductions around. The Winfield ladies had come to enjoy themselves, and their hosts were solely intent on contributing to their enjoyment, hence all formality was dispensed with, and cordiality prevailed. Nearly an hour was spent in informal talk, and mutual inquiries in regard to sundry business details, when a messenger from the Leland Hotel announced that dinner was ready, and the Arkansas City ladies and their visitors sat down to a bounteous repast. Mine host Perry, is an old soldier himself, and his patriotic impulses were aroused to treat this interesting party to his best.

After discussing the meal with keen enjoyment, the ladies returned to their post room, where initiations and other secret business took up their time, until 4 o’clock, when they opened their doors to receive a delegation from the Arkansas City post of veterans. The visiting brethren consisted of Senior Vice Commander P. A. Lorry, Quartermaster G. W. Miller, and Comrades M. N. Sinnott, D. P. Marshall, J. D. Guthrie, and F. Lockley. Comrade Conrad, of Winfield, also joined the delegation. . . .
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.
                                                            Communicated.
On Saturday morning, the 24th, twenty of the officers and members of the Woman’s Relief Corps met at their hall according to previous arrangements, to make a visit to the Arkansas City Relief Corps, upon an invitation extended from them, going by Arthur Bangs’ four-horse buss and private conveyance. Arriving at about 11:30 a.m., we were received by a committee of ladies of the Relief Corps at the Leland Hotel, where dinner was waiting us, consisting of the good things of the land in abundance, and served in magnificent style. After dinner we were escorted by the committee to their hall and in the regular business of the order found them earnest and energetic, doing much for the relief and encouragement of the members of the G. A. R. and their families. After the disposal of business, initiation of new members, etc., some half dozen members of the G. A. R. Post of the city called, greeting us with words of welcome and good cheer, and a general social time was indulged in, until we were compelled to prepare for our return home, starting around 5 p.m., delayed by the storm, arriving safely about 9 p.m., thanks to the careful driver furnished by Mr. Bangs. All are enthusiastic in praise of the Arkansas City Relief Corps, their earnest, energetic president, Mrs. J. Q. Ashton, their pleasing and agreeable manner of receiving and entertaining, and wishing we may have many opportunities of meeting and mingling with them in the future.
Winfield Courier.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 4, 1885.
On Tuesday H. H. Perry, of the Leland, registered upwards of a page of guests, and twenty-one members of the Golden company.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 11, 1885.
The Bristol dramatic company make their stay with mine host, Perry, at the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 11, 1885.
The dining room of the Leland is graced with an elegant chrysanthemum in full bloom, the gift of Mrs. Lorry.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 18, 1885.
                                                              De Gustibus.
A lunch under the Leland Hotel suits the taste of the epicure. Every viand is cooked to a turn and served up in a style that provokes the appetite. Sweeney, the proprietor, is always on hand, and ever ready to wait on his guests. His oysters are served up in every style, “half a dozen fried” being a favorite relish. His ham sandwiches are celebrated, and his chicken broiled fit for a London alderman. Sweeney has a natural aptitude as a restaurateur, and his success in that line comes as a matter of course. Those who want a good lunch go to Sweeney’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 18, 1885.
                                                             Leland House.

Monday. L. C. Wilson, Cincinnati; Achilles Hollingsworth, Winfield; Jas. Hollingsworth, Winfield; A. Feinestein, Chicago; J. Harris, Chicago; Fred Allen, Kansas City; J. P. Chesney, Philadelphia; E. L. Farnham, Boston; J. S. Gilkinson, Chicago; J. P. Newham, Kansas City; W. G. McCorrister, Kansas City; Frank Patten, Leavenworth; W. Cardell, St. Louis; Chas. Goheimer, St. Joe; J. S. Pumyeu and W. L. Sharp, Kansas City; Wm. DeLesdernier, Otoe, Indian Territory, H. J. Butler, Janesville, Ohio; W. Beal, Janesville, Ohio; D. J. Montgomery, Boston; E. B. Wingate, Philadelphia; D. B. Beatty and wife, city; A. Moore, Newton.
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 8-1/2 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 1-1/4 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.
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.
It was after 8 o’clock before they heard the distant whistling of the excursion train, towards which they at once started, and which they reached after a brisk walk of nearly a mile. Had it not been for Councilman Davis, who has only one natural leg to work with, they probably would have continued their journey on foot, and thus economized time. As it was, Mr. Davis was conveyed to the cars in a carriage to avoid the fatigue of walking. All having gotten on board, the train moved slowly up the track. They had a jolly, rollicking time.

Having arrived at Winfield, the passengers allowed the engine to rest a little, although it caused them much weariness to be delayed in a village of such few attractions when vivid pictures of enterprising Beaumont occupied their excited minds. Mr. Latham joined the party at Winfield, and when the train pulled out, the officers of the road suspended from the rear end of the last car a banner, bearing the inscription, “The town we left behind us.” From that railroad station onto the end of the journey, the train swept over the track at a rapid rate, passing through Floral, Wilmot, Atlanta, and Latham. Beaumont (a French word meaning “the fashionable world”) was reached at 11:30 a.m., and the party evacuated the cars and proceeded at once to the central part of the city. On either side, as they walked up main street, tall and magnificent buildings met their view, and the hearts of the rustic excursionists almost ceased to beat on account of the grandeur they beheld. Councilman Dunn had purchased a bran new hat that morning, and in trying to pass in under one of the lofty awnings, it was completely crushed. [N.B. This incident occurred before the drugstore was visited.] They found that the city consists of fourteen houses, which have been standing for 14 years, and the inhabitants number about 75. This is conclusive evidence that the town is still booming. When one of the natives was asked why he did not move to a better locality, he proudly pointed to the barren flint hills, and, with Kansas enthusiasm, maintained that Beaumont was the garden-spot of the world. After dinner, which was served in the spacious dining hall of Noah Herring, some of the party, for amusement, played at billiards and pigeon-hole. Bro. Lockley and Geo. Cunningham leveled down the flint hills and bombarded the town pitching horseshoes. Some of them went into one of the two drugstores in the place and consulted the “holy record” in order to procure some remedy for their ailments. The druggist showed them a full “soda pop” barrel, the greater portion of whose contents they consumed.
While in the drug store they made the following invoice of the stock it contained.
1 small stove: $2.00
1 old keg: $0.00
1 old box: $0.00
1 counter: $10.00
10 boxes of candy: $10.00
1 pail of tobacco: $4.00
2 boxes of nuts: $.50
1 barrel of whiskey: $8.00
  TOTAL: $34.50
The excursionists returned to Arkansas City at about 9 o’clock p.m., full of joy and “soda water.” There will be another excursion over this road soon and everybody here will then have a chance to see Beaumont.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 2, 1885.
In the Leland Hotel dining hall on Thanksgiving day, Mine Host Perry exhibited with some pride, a miniature lion skillfully executed in butter by Mrs. Seyfer, and presented as an evidence of her artist work. The crinkled mane of the tawny brute was very admirably produced.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 2, 1885.
Young, Latham & Co., the contractors of the K. C. & S. W. Railroad, entertained about 170 of their men with a turkey dinner on Thanksgiving day. Ninety were fed at the Leland Hotel, Grubbs provided for about fifty more, and the remainder ate at the Central Avenue Hotel. The excellent behavior of these railroad builders is spoken of in high terms by all their entertainers.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 5, 1885.
                                                             A BANQUET
                              Tendered the Hon. James Hill Thursday Evening By The

                                                 Businessmen of Arkansas City.
                                                      He Was Also Watched.
Last Thursday evening between the hours of 7 and 8 o’clock, the businessmen began to assemble at the Leland Hotel. When a fair representation had congregated, the crowd repaired to the Leland parlors, where everyone was treated to cigars. By the time the smokers had reduced their Havanas to ashes and indulged in a sociable and animated conversation, the feast was announced ready for devourment. At this moment 47 businessmen of Arkansas City showed an inclination to move towards the spacious dining halls of the Leland. The march was commenced, and when we entered, ye gods! What a sight was presented to the vision of 47 hungry businessmen of Arkansas City. A long table, the entire length of the dining room, was loaded to its uttermost capacity with refreshments for the inner man. Mine Host Perry undoubtedly acquired great fame as a caterer on this occasion. The invited guests filled the long rows of chairs on either side of the table, with Maj. W. M. Sleeth presiding and Jas. Hill occupying a seat at the opposite end of the table. Henry E. Asp and Contractor Moore were present and enjoyed the hospitality of the sturdy businessmen. It was an interesting study to the writer to note the faces present. Here and there among the assembly we recognized faces of the old land-marks. There were thirteen who came to the city on the sand hill in 1870—fifteen years ago. What a mammoth municipality has been constructed upon that small foundation which was laid fifteen years ago. All honor to that noble thirteen who were then present, for the many able efforts they have set forth to build up Arkansas City within the last fifteen years. We will call them the corner stones of the municipality. Then, again, in other places there were faces that have appeared upon the scene later, and by untiring zeal and hard work have aided very materially in the advancement of Arkansas City. They were here when the sunflower was rank in the streets, and the stalks grew so large that they were used for hitching posts, and the festival raccoon climbed up them and hid his carcass in the branches. They came later on, having heard of the many natural advantages here for making a city. From far-off climes they came, and they came to stay. Behold, what a city has grown! But to return to the banquet. In the language of the immortal poet, “The big, the small, the lean, the tall, ate a half ton each and all.” And yet the half of it remains to be told. When the “task” of feasting was over, Maj. Sleeth arose and, in one of the most able and touching addresses we have ever heard, handed to Hon. James Hill a handsome gold watch and chain. It was a gift from those there assembled as a token of appreciation for the efforts Mr. Hill put forth in bringing the K. C. & S. W. Railroad here, and also, in behalf of what he has done for the prosperity of Arkansas City. Mr. Hill responded in a very neat speech. Henry E. Asp, being called for, arose and made an excellent little speech. He was followed by Judge A. J. Pyburn, who toasted in behalf of Arkansas City; and kind readers, let it suffice for us to say that the Judge did his subject justice. Judge McIntire, also, made a few interesting and telling remarks very suitable to the occasion. By motion it was unanimously declared that it was the will of those present to adjourn to the parlors once more and “schmoke.”

As we have stated above, the banquet was given in honor of Hon. James Hill. Mr. Hill has done much for Arkansas City. We will not attempt to enumerate what he has done, for our readers have known the honorable gentleman many years more than the writer. But we believe he is deserving of the honor conferred upon him last Thursday evening. Long may he live to do good to our thriving little city.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 5, 1885.
                                     ALMOST ANOTHER CONFLAGRATION.
                                    The Leland Hotel Set on Fire Wednesday Night;
                                         and Jerry McGee Arrested for the Deed.
Last Wednesday evening, at about 10 o’clock, the alarm of fire was given. It proved to be in the Leland Hotel, and from the testimony offered in the preliminary examination yesterday, of the man who is accused of the deed, we glean the following information.
Shortly after the Santa Fe train came in Wednesday night, the fire was discovered under the stairway by a chambermaid going to a closet after bed clothing. She screamed for Landlord Perry, who came with a pitcher of water, followed by a drummer with a bucket of water. They both dashed it on the flames and extinguished them. While this scene was transpiring, upon the outside two girls employed in the hotel were coming into the house from the laundry, when they met a man, who appeared to be trying to hide from them. They recognized him as Jerry McGee, and one of them, Ruth Bowles, caught hold of his coat collar and asked what he was doing there. No answer was made to her inquiry, and the girl held on to him for a short distance as he moved away trying to obtain an answer from him. She finally let loose and upon going in the house learned what had occurred there. She told Mr. Perry of her experience outside and he immediately had Billy Gray to go over to the Occidental where McGee worked, and see if he was there. Marshal Gray found him there and arrested him. He was kept under guard all night. Thursday the preliminary trial was to have come off, but it was postponed until yesterday. Landlord Perry tells us a man by the name of Hill saw the prisoner in the hallway of the Leland just before the fire occurred, but this witness strangely disappeared before the trial began. DeWitt McDowell, proprietor of the Occidental Hotel, testified that McGee was in his hotel at the time the fire occurred. The girl who caught the man by the coat collar is positive that it was McGee and McDowell was equally positive that the prisoner was in the Occidental at that moment. But Judge Kreamer wisely gave his decision to hold McGee, and he was bound over in the sum of $2,500.
The Leland Hotel was chock full of lodgers and if the fire had gotten under headway, no doubt some of them would have been cremated. The fire was under the only stairway in the hotel and if it had burned, all egress would have been cut off except through the windows. Whoever it was, it was intended to make a sure job, as everything in the place where the fire was started was saturated with coal oil.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 9, 1885.
                                              ATTEMPTED INCENDIARISM.
                                 The Leland Hotel Comes Near Going Up in Smoke.
                         Jerry McGee, a Discharged Employee, Arrested for the Crime.
                          He is Examined and Committed for Trial in the District Court.

On Wednesday evening, shortly before ten o’clock, a cry of fire proceeded from the Leland Hotel, which caused serious consternation, and the office and hall of the building were soon filled with people. In a very few minutes the gratifying news was spread that the fire was extinguished and all danger was over. Mr. H. H. Perry, the proprietor of the hotel, gives the following statement of this incipient calamity.
“On the night in question my house was full, and as I retired before the omnibus from the Santa Fe depot came up, I instructed the porter to call me, if a certain passenger (a Mr. Pomyea, from Kansas City), came in. My wife being away from home, I proposed to give up my room and sleep for the night with one of the boys. About ten minutes after I had undressed and was in bed, the porter came to my room and called me, saying Mr. Pomyea had come in the stage. I arose, and having half dressed myself, sent for a chambermaid to make up the bed and tidy the room. Ella Chapel came, and after she had prepared the room for the guest, I sent her downstairs for two towels. The girl came flying back in an instant, saying the stairs were on fire. I grabbed up the water pitcher, and running downstairs, found the flames in a recess under the stairs and hard to get at. Getting on my knees I thrust the pitcher into the recess, scorching my hand slightly with the blaze, and emptied its contents.
“In the hall, just forward of the stairs, is a sleeping room occupied by Mrs. Hill. I burst her door open, awakening her with the noise; and seizing her water pitcher, I also emptied that over the burning material, and this effectually extinguished the fire.”
Suspicion of this daring act of incendiarianism fell upon Jerry McGee, a discharged porter, then employed in the Occidental Hotel, who had been seen about the premises by a dining room girl. Complaint was made to Justice Kreamer, and the City Marshal was instructed to make the arrest. The suspected party was found in the Occidental and taken before the justice, who placed him under $1,500 bonds to appear for examination. Bail was furnished by DeWitt McDowell, proprietor of the Occidental, and the accused was discharged; but later on he was re-arrested and placed under guard.
                                            PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION.
On Friday morning the examination was held in Justice Kreamer’s room, the state being represented by County Attorney Henry E. Asp, and the defense conducted by Judge H. T. Sumner.
The first witness examined was H. H. Perry, who deposed that he was proprietor of the Leland, and was present on the night of December 2nd. Had known the defendant for nearly two years; he had worked for witness part of that time. He had been employed as porter in the house by some of the former proprietors. He was thoroughly familiar with the house. Witness had retired to bed just before the train came in. (The witness then detailed the facts of the discovery of the fire and its prompt extinguishment substantially as given above.)
Witness on request of the county attorney drew a diagram of the ground floor of the hotel, and explained to the court where the fire was discovered. There was a scuttle hole under the stairs, which was all ablaze. To get at the fire he had to get down on his knees, and thrust the pitcher into the aperture. The flames charred the wood. He found a pasteboard box there, in which a pair of skates had lain. The position of this box had been changed, and it contained rags saturated with kerosene. Had seen the accused about the place during the evening. The fire was discovered about ten o’clock. Mrs. Hill was asleep in her room; there were guests in the other rooms of the house.
Cross examined by Judge Sumner.

Witness retired to his room about 9:30, and was called about ten minutes later. McGee was in the habit of sitting about the hotel till the bus started for the Santa Fe depot. Is not really sure he was in the hotel that evening. The bus goes to the train about 9 o’clock. Miss Chapel discovered the fire and informed witness. The wood under the stairs was ignited. The rags soaked with kerosene were burning, but were not consumed. The fire could not have been started more than two minutes when discovered. He ran down ahead of the girl and had the fire out in less than a minute.
Witness explained more explicitly in the court the position of the incendiary box when he discovered it. It is labeled “Dickens’ Complete Works,” and would hold about twenty octavo volumes. There was a two quart can placed in the box containing kerosene, and a quantity of rags saturated with the same.
Ella Chapel was next examined. Is acquainted with the prisoner, but has not known him long. Is chambermaid in the Leland Hotel, has been engaged there since July 4th. She then repeated the testimony of the former witness about going downstairs for the towels, discovering the fire, and giving the alarm.
Cross examined.
Saw no fire when she first went upstairs to fix Mr. Perry’s room. Was upstairs not more than three minutes, and discovered the fire on going downstairs.
Jay Shapley, porter in the Leland Hotel, said he was in the hotel on the night of the 2nd. Knows the defendant, rode with him going to the Kansas City train. Had a conversation on the way, and a wrangle about rates ensued. Prisoner was very abusive of Mr. Perry; called him a s__n of a b____h, and said he would do anything for a dollar. Had an angry talk till they reached the depot. McGee said he was not working very hard for his house, but in less than sixty days it would have all the commercial trade. The Santa Fe train came in at 9:35; Mr. Pomyea was on board; and when he reached the hotel, he sent the girl to notify Mr. Perry that Pomyea had come.
Witness then repeated some talk he had with the prisoner in the Occidental after his arrest. He was in charge of Constable Thompson at the time. Witness sat down by the prisoner who asked, “Jay, what does Ruth say about this?” He started to reply but Frank Thompson objected.
Cross examined.
Did not understand that any threat to burn down the house was conveyed in the talk about getting all the commercial trade. Mr. Pomyea got to the Leland about 9:45. Think the fire occurred 20 or 25 minutes after the bus got up. Just saw a flash of the fire; Mr. Perry, the girl, Mrs. Hill, and a guest were there. Had never seen the box before. No lamp rags were kept in the scuttle hole; they were sent to the laundry and washed every morning after the lamps were cleaned. Took the box after the fire and placed it under the counter. (The box with its half consumed contents was produced in court.)
Next saw Jerry McGee in the Occidental at 11 o’clock. He asked, “What does Ruth say about this?” Ruth had said that she saw Jerry leave the house about the time of the fire; it was in reference to this, most probably, that he asked the question. Could not say whether Jerry knew that Ruth had made this statement. It was generally known that Ruth had said this; and witness thought somebody had told Jerry what she had said. Judge Kreamer was in the Occidental office when witness entered. Witness stayed there about five minutes. Had no intention of talking about the fire.

Re-direct.
It was generally talked that Jerry had been seen running away from the house. Could not say that Ruth’s name was mentioned in connection.
Ruth Bowles was next examined. Has known McGee two years; part of this time he was portering in the Leland. In this capacity he must have become familiar with the house. On the evening of the 2nd witness was in the laundry downstairs, and saw Jerry from the laundry door. While going from the laundry to see the chamber maid, witness heard somebody coming down the stairs, and next saw Jerry about four steps from the laundry door. He dodged and hid against the building when he saw me. There was a light in the laundry and lights in the room above, so that I could see. When I met him I called him by name. I called him a second and a third time; but he didn’t answer. I ran after him, but lost sight of him at the northeast corner of the coal house. Looked for him in the coal house. Told Sadie Woodin I had seen Jerry. Soon after heard the noise of the fire, and entered the hotel. Asked Mr. Perry if a lamp had exploded, because there was a strong smell of coal oil. Had seen Jerry coming up in the bus.
Cross examined.
Witness repeated her story of meeting the accused as she was going to the chambermaid. Was near enough to take hold of him, but did not. Called him by name, but he did not answer. He ran and turned the northeast corner of the coal house, and I lost sight of him there. He was dressed in dark clothes and cutaway coat, had no overcoat on. Am quite certain it was the prisoner. Went to the coal house door and said, “Jerry, you little devil, what are you doing here?”
There were about twenty people in the hall, and some of them asked witness if she had seen Jerry. She told quite a number she had. Had a side view of him when he dodged away; did not see his features. On the bus he wore his overcoat. Could tell it was Jerry by his size, his form, and his clothes. Witness could recognize Jerry’s attire in the dim light because she is so familiar with it.
Counsel tried hard to make the witness admit she might mistake another man of small size for the prisoner, but she insisted that she knew it was Jerry. Noticed two pearl or ivory buttons on the back of his coat.
Sadie Woodin was next sworn. Have known the accused three months. Was with Ruth Bowles in the laundry on the night of the fire. Stood at the laundry door and was talking to Ruth. Saw someone run by and round the corner. Witness’ first thought was that it was Jerry. Asked Ruth who it was and she said it was Jerry. Was with Ruth when she looked into the coal house and called him. The man looked like Jerry. At first thought it was someone trying to play a trick on us. Finally took a light and went up the kitchen steps to my bedroom over the laundry.
Cross examined.
Was talking to the laundry woman; just a little afterward heard rapid steps and a man turned the corner. Wanted to see who it was, and looked into the coal room. Ruth was with me and stood there while I went to get a lamp. Thought it was Jerry McGee because the man was about his size and shape. Soon after that the racket about the fire occurred. At the laundry asked Ruth if that was Jerry and she said it was.

Archie Dunn was next placed on the stand. This witness repeated a portion of the conversation between Shapley and McGee as they rode to the depot. The talk was about rates, and McGee charged that Mr. Perry had violated his engagement with the Occidental. Paid no attention to the talk, which was noisy and terribly profane. Both seemed to swear by note; but heard Jerry offer to bet odds that in a short time the Occidental would have all the trade.
Charles Milks (a lad) drove the bus going to the depot. On the platform heard the two cursing and swearing. Jerry said that in 60 days the Occidental would have all the commercial trade.
Frank J. Hess deposed that the Leland Hotel occupied lots 1, 2, and 3, Block 69, on the city plat.
Richard U. Hess was at the Leland on the night of the fire. Has examined the place where the fire was started; it was charred and black, but not burnt enough to make coal.
On cross examination the witness said he knelt down so as to look in, but did not put his head in the scuttle hole. The aperture is a foot or 15 inches high.
Ruth Bowles was recalled. Had heard Jerry speak of Mr. and Mrs. Perry. He said all they cared for their help was what work they could get out of them. He did not use very good terms in speaking of them.
Sadie Woodin testified to the same effect.
Here the court took a recess for noon.
                                                   AFTERNOON SESSION.
On re-commencing at 1:15, the examination of witnesses for the prosecution was resumed.
Frank Thompson (constable) testified that he had the prisoner in charge; took charge of him about 12:30. Knows the porter of the Leland Hotel (Jay Shapley). He came to the Occidental, and began talking to the prisoner in a whisper, but witness stopped it. Others had talked to him in an ordinary tone of voice, but nothing particular was said. Prisoner said he hated to be accused of such a crime.
Cross examined.
Took charge of accused after he had been re-arrested. Someone said in Jerry’s presence that it was reported Ruth had caught hold of him, and he had torn away from her. Jerry said he had not been there.
This closed the case for the prosecution.
The defense called Col. E. Neff to the stand, who testified to seeing McGee at the depot on the evening of the 2nd; Charles Bryant also saw him eating supper in Sweeny’s lunch room (under the Leland) before the bus started.

Will J. Woods deposed that he was in the Occidental Hotel on Wednesday evening, when the train whistle blew, and remained there till the bus came up. One passenger came in and registered. McGee also came in and sat down by the stove. He talked three or four minutes with him, and then crossed over to the Leland, leaving McGee sitting there. In the Leland talked to his brother about a letter he had received from home, and talked to some other persons. A stranger inquired what escape there was from the house in case of fire. The porter showed a diagram of the place, and said escape was easy. Shortly afterward a cry of fire was raised, and witness went to the door and called for water and buckets. Quite a number came in, but it was then reported that the fire was out, and witness endeavored to keep the crowd out of the hall. The next witness saw of McGee was in the Occidental, and then heard he was accused of setting fire to the Leland. McGee was still sitting there. City Marshal Gray entered, and told McGee he had come to arrest him. It was talked that the girls at the Leland had seen him there, but McGee denied that he had been there.
DeWitt McDowell, proprietor of the Occidental, was next sworn. He deposed that McGee was in his employ as porter. It was near 10 o’clock when the bus came in. Jerry entered the office with one man carrying a small bundle. McGee sat down and the passenger washed. He (the accused) then went upstairs, and two minutes later there was an alarm of fire. He did not leave the office till he went upstairs. Billy Gray came in about ten minutes after the alarm of fire was given and took McGee away. On going upstairs, witness met him coming down, and told him there was a fire; he asked where it was. Both went to the door to look out, and saw a crowd running into the Leland Hotel.
Cross examined.
Was born in Galesburg, Illinois; came to Kansas not quite two years ago. Has been in the Occidental Hotel since July last, bought out his partner Nov. 12th. The accused has been employed at the House from a month previous to that time. Until Fred Bower (his former partner in the Occidental Hotel) left the house, McGee merely went to the trains, being in poor health, and worked for his board. But now he is paid a salary and has other duties. Witness denied that he had made any arrangement with Perry in regard to rates. He managed his own resources, and left Mr. Perry to attend to his business. Was present when City Marshal Gray came in to arrest Jerry. Next saw him in Justice Kreamer’s office and went on the bond. Denied that he had employed Judge Sumner to defend the accused.
William Clossey testified that he came to this city on the Santa Fe train on the evening of the 2nd; the accused collected stage fare of him. The bus stopped at the Occidental Hotel; he went in there and registered. Agreed with the proprietor about terms and then went to the sink and washed. Walked out then, and was opposite the Leland Hotel when a man rushed out and hallooed fire, another called for water and buckets. Washed in a reasonably short time and went out directly. Was not more than a minute walking to the corner. Then went to the Commercial Restaurant and had a cup of coffee.
On cross examination the witness told of extensive wanderings in the western states, until he arrived in Kansas City, in which place he lived a year, working at his trade as shoemaker.
Annie Sutor has been employed in the Occidental Hotel until Wednesday last. She was sitting in the parlor upstairs, talking and having a good time with some friends when she heard Jerry come upstairs. He went to his room at the rear end of the hall, a distance of about eighty feet, and then went down again. There was an interval of two minutes between his coming up and going downstairs. This was directly after the bus came in. An alarm of fire was given directly, after Jerry had passed the parlor door, going downstairs. Went to the parlor window to look out. Did not see Jerry again that evening.

Elsie McCasler testified to a similar effect. She was one of the party in the Occidental parlor, heard Jerry pass back and forth, and an alarm of fire immediately succeeded his movements. This witness was also clear in her conversation that his stay upstairs did not exceed two minutes. J. C. F. Bender, another guest in the parlor, gave corroborative testimony.
William J. Gray deposed that he arrested Jerry McGee 15 to 20 minutes after the fire. On his first trip he didn’t find him. The second time he found him in the Occidental office. Had no warrant to arrest him. Held him in charge till he gave bond. Shortly after releasing him went to Occidental again with Judge Kreamer, where he found his prisoner.
Here the defense rested, and the court took a recess of fifteen minutes.
                                              CLOSE OF THE TESTIMONY.
On re-assembling the defense submitted the written statement of Mr. Pomyea, which was acceded to by the prosecution. It rehearses the details of his arrival at the Leland, the conversation that took place with the porter; and his crossing over to the New England Kitchen to get an oyster stew. He fixes 15 or 20 minutes at the time that elapsed between his arrival at the hotel and the cry of fire.
Miss Sutor was recalled by the prosecution, and requested to make a diagram of the parlor and of the arrangement of the furniture therein. She also repeated a conversation held with Richard Hess.
Miss McCasler, being again placed on the stand, denied that she had told Dick Hess that she did not hear the bus come in on Wednesday evening, and knew nothing about the matter.
Jay Shapley (porter at the Leland) deposed that 20 to 30 minutes elapsed between the arrival of the omnibus at the hotel and the alarm of fire. Witness was quite positive that Col. Woods (a former witness) was in the Leland office when the bus arrived and did not leave there till after the fire.
Ruth Bowles recalled.
Saw the bus arrive at the hotel, and drive round to the barn. Talked a few minutes to the driver. Then went to the laundry and talked about five minutes to the laundress. While thus engaged saw Jerry coming along the passage. Noticed the two pearl buttons on the back of his coat. Did not take hold of him; it was reported that she did, but she did not. Has not told anybody that she seized hold of him. When witness entered the house, the fire was extinguished.
Sadie Woodin recalled.
Saw the bus come up on the night of the fire. It was 15 or 20 minutes after this that the noise of the fire was raised.
William Clossey recalled.
When he got out of the bus and entered the Occidental, he saw the proprietor and Mr. Woods sitting in the office.
R. U. Hess recalled.
Talked with the girls at the Occidental Hotel the morning after the fire. Urged them to tell what they knew in court as their testimony would be useful to Jerry. They said they didn’t want to appear, and could be of no service, as they didn’t hear the bus drive up and knew nothing about the matter. Annie Sutor and Elsie made this declaration. This ended the testimony.
                                                ARGUMENT OF COUNSEL.

Prosecuting Attorney Asp then made an able argument to the court, dwelling with great emphasis on the discrepancy with regard to time. Five or six witnesses, he showed, gave the alarm of fire as occurring from 15 to 30 minutes after the bus drove up. Even the statement of Mr. Pomyea, the traveling man, introduced by the defense, declared that he heard the alarm 15 or 20 minutes after he had landed at the hotel. The proprietor of the Occidental, and the witnesses put on the stand, who were in his employ, would not allow that more than four or five minutes elapsed. There is a suspicious unanimity in the estimate of time by these witnesses. They would allow no more than two minutes for the stay of Jerry McGee in the hotel office, and the same length of time for his visit to his room along a hall 80 feet and his return therefrom. The two girls seated in the parlor, enjoying themselves with their friends, and paying no heed to what was transpiring outside, admit to the witness Hess that they did not hear the bus drive up, knew nothing about Jerry’s movements, were totally ignorant, in fact, of the whole affair. Yet on the stand they tell a story so completely in agreement with the statements made by other witnesses for the defense, that their testimony strongly suggests the suspicion of being cooked up.
Col. Sumner on behalf of the defense, argued that all the proof introduced to convict Jerry McGee of the crime charged was the testimony of one girl who saw the form of someone in the dark, but got no view of his features, which she thought resembled that of the accused. Jerry is a small sized man, and the figure she saw in the passage way was diminutive, and this fixes the identity. Counsel could point out twenty men in the city no bigger than the accused, any one of whom appearing to the sight of that young lady at a time of excitement and with indistinct light, might be mistaken for the man now charged with the crime. This was all the case of the prosecution; while to rebut it there were four witnesses at least who swore that the time was so brief after the bus came up from the depot carrying McGee, and the fire broke out, that it was physically impossible for him to have had a hand in it. No court, he said, could find probable cause to hold the defendant for trial on such a flimsy showing, and it was the duty of his Honor to let him go free.
Judge Kreamer held the accused to appear before the district court of Sumner to answer to the charge of arson, and fixed his bail at the sum of $2,500 dollars.
The following day DeWitt McDowell, W. B. Hagins, Asa Lewis, and H. T. Sumner went on his bond, their sureties were approved, and the accused was discharged.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 12, 1885.
The Knights of Pythias will give a ball next Friday evening, Dec. 18, in Highland Opera House. Without any hesitancy the REPUBLICAN makes the assertion that this will be the best and most fashionable entertainment of the year of 1885. First-class music from Wichita and a prompter that dancers can understand will be in attendance to enliven the occasion. In connection with the ball, a grand supper will be given at the Leland Hotel. Mine Host Perry promises to excel the bill-of-fare at the Hill Banquet, if such could be possible. Invitations will be issued next week, and of course printed at the REPUBLICAN job printing office.
Arkansas City Republican, December 12, 1885.
Jerry McGee, the supposed incendiary of the Leland Hotel, secured bondsmen after his trial of last Friday. DeWitt McDowell, Hayes Love, and Judge Sumner went on his bond as sureties.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.

The TRAVELER report of the examination of Jerry McGee, charged with firing the Leland Hotel, struck the popular demand. Our edition was examined the day after publication, and scores of copies have been asked for since.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
                                                 JAMES HILL BANQUETED.
                                  A Newspaper Estimate of the Value of His Labors.
The sickness of part of our force last week caused delay in composition, and a portion of the copy prepared for insertion was not set up in type. Among the matter crowded out was a report of the banquet given by our businessmen to Mr. James Hill, councilman from the first ward; to whose faithful labors in behalf of the city we are mainly indebted for the defeat of the machinations of the Winfield syndicate to divert the route of the Kansas City and Southwestern road, and place Arkansas City at the end of a spur. This valuable service was deemed worthy of public recognition, and on the 4th inst., a dinner was given to our fellow-townsman at the Leland Hotel, and a valuable gold watch presented. Major Sleeth, who made the presentation in a speech that is commendable for its appropriateness, brevity, and terseness, declared that the offering was made as a token of the appreciation of himself and fellow-citizens of the mental, moral, and social qualities of the guest of the evening, but more especially on account of his business enterprise and executive ability. These are qualities of the highest importance in all great undertakings; they are eminently useful to the community in whose behalf they are exercised, and uniformly lead to success.
Henry E. Asp, who has been intimately associated with Mr. Hill, in procuring the means to build the road, and subsequently laying the track, also paid a warm tribute to his co-laborer’s business astuteness, and his immense capacity for labor. He not only has the enterprise and the originality to form useful and progressive designs, but he is endowed with the physical endurance to carry them out, in spite of opposition and difficulty.
There is another eminent quality in our fellow-townsman, which was not touched on by his eulogists. We refer to his sound and discriminating judgment. He has the native instinct of a lawyer, or perhaps we might more correctly say, a statesman. Without the advantage of scholastic education, he has extraordinary clearness of perception. He spends much of his leisure in reading, and his reading is of a profitable nature. What he reads he assimilates, and all his intellectual equipment is stowed away in its proper receptacles, classified and endorsed, and ready to lay his hand on whenever wanted. We have carefully watched Mr. Hill on various occasions, when his railroad project was under discussion, and property rights, perhaps, were supposed to come in conflict with his franchise. Questions would be asked him involving points of law or public expediency, where a cautious man would refuse to commit himself, and an indiscreet man would tie himself up. But James Hill never shirked an answer, never got himself entangled. The cause he was advocating found in him an alert champion, armed at all points, and his candor and manifest sincerity never failed to win the confidence of his hearers. His joust with Col. Sumner in the city council chamber, at the time that the lot owners on Thirteenth Street appealed against the damage done to their property by running the track along that street, was not only masterly—it towered into moral grandeur; and the eloquence his feelings warmed him into hushed a crowded and clamorous audience.

We desire to add one word in regard to Mr. Hill’s ardent eulogist, Henry E. Asp. This young man had the misfortune to “incur the hospitality,” as our Malaprop neighbor, the Democrat, would say, of many of our citizens, because of his supposed complicity with Winfield property owners and others in their endeavor to leave this city out in the cold. He has since had an opportunity of vindicating himself from this injurious suspicion, and the popular resentment against him is largely allayed. We can say of this gentleman that his private utterances in regard to Mr. Hill’s qualities and usefulness are in entire accord with his public declarations. He speaks of his fellow laborer as bold in his plans, sagacious in council, and skillful and experienced in practical details. Mr. Hill is the elder of the two, and a man of larger mould, mentally and physically. But it is pleasant to note the unanimity that has marked the actions of these two during the ups and downs and ins and outs of the railroad enterprise, and to award a due need of praise to the useful services of both associates.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
                                                             Entertainment.
The Knights of Pythias of this city will give their first annual ball on Friday, the 18th inst., at Highland Opera House. This lodge is a creditable scion of one of the most popular and influential secret orders in this country. The members propose to celebrate the first year of their corporate existence by inviting their friends to rejoice with them, and a right royal time is assured to all. The banquet will be provided by Mine Host Perry, of the Leland.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 19, 1885.
                                                       Knights of Pythias Ball.

Last night, December 18, 1885, will long be remembered in Arkansas City by the lovers of the terpsichorean art. It was the occasion of the Knights of Pythias ball. For two weeks past the committees have been at work making elaborate preparations and last night we beheld the fruits of their labor. To say the ball was the event of the season does not express it. The affair was simply grand. Youth and beauty were there to “trip the light fantastic toe” to the best music ever introduced into Arkansas City. Delegations were present from Winfield, Wellington, and Wichita, and were treated so handsomely by the K. of P.’s in this city and enjoyed the occasion so hugely that they were wont to linger lovingly and long and while away the time in the mazy, dreamy waltz. The floor managers were assiduous in the performance of their duties. No one was allowed to linger as a wall-flower. All present were made to feel welcome and at home. The reception committee were on duty and met everyone at the door, showing the ladies to their wrap room, as well as the gentlemen, where attendants were stationed to attend to their wants. We wish to say here that all the committees discharged their duties exceptionally well, allowing nothing to be a drawback on the enjoyment and comfort of those present. Between the hours of 11 and 12 o’clock, the guests began to flock to the Leland Hotel to participate at the banquet. There were over 100 couples in attendance; and as a consequence, they were made up into three divisions. Thus, the dancing was kept up all the evening. Our space is so limited that it forbids a detailed mention of the scene at the banquet. Suffice be it for us to say that such a feast was never before prepared in Arkansas City. After the banquet was over, dancing was resumed by all and kept up till a late hour—or rather an early hour. Everyone was delighted with the pleasant evening spent and after one and all had wished Triumph Lodge No. 116, Knights of Pythias, many happy returns, they all returned to “home, sweet home.”
Arkansas City Traveler, December 23, 1885.
H. H. Perry, of the Leland, has rented rooms in the Hasie block and is furnishing them in handsome style. His family seems to have outgrown his domicile.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 23, 1885.
The case of the state against Jerry McGee, charged with arson in setting fire in the Leland Hotel, was called in the district court on the 17th inst., and set for trial today.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 23, 1885.
                                                       Knights of Pythias Ball.
The anniversary ball given by the Knights of Pythias in Highland Hall on Friday evening was, as the Winfield Courier characterizes it, “a grand affair.” The committees to whom the preparations for the festivity were assigned, determined to make it the social event of the season, and they spared neither money nor labor in carrying out their ends. Invitations were sent to acceptable citizens in this city, Winfield, and other parts of the county, and so hearty was the response to the call that 115 tickets were readily sold. Ten couples and a few odd bachelors came in from Winfield on a special train, and the orchestra came down from Wichita. By 9 o’clock fully 100 couples were on the floor, many of the ladies dressed in elegant costumes and their beaux attired in conventional style. The orchestra discoursed music from the stage; and parlor games, such as cribbage and chess, were provided for those who were tired of the light fantastic. The arrangements of the ball were admirable, no pains being spared to secure the enjoyment of every participant. The reception commit-tee—Messrs. Landes, Huey, H. P. Farrar, Pyburn, George, and Balyeat—performed their duties with assiduity and grace; and the floor managers were equally efficient in their supervision.
Dancing was kept up till 11 o’clock with interest and animation, when a portion of the company withdrew to partake of supper at the Leland Hotel. In preparing the banquet Mine Host Perry displayed his customary liberality and taste as a caterer; but the dining hall being inadequate to provide for so large a company, the guests were entertained in divisions. This broke into the dance arrangements, and the interruption was continued for several hours.
About seventy persons sat down to the first tables, which were bountifully supplied with every delicacy, and the table service was perfect. These guests, satisfied, returned to the ball room, and a second relay filled the dining hall. When they had partaken their meal, the tables were again set for a third company. The supper thus eaten in detail consumed nearly three hours, and the program was abandoned, miscellaneous dances being substituted. But this no way marred the enjoyment of the company.
The revelry was kept up to the wee sma’ hours, and when the company finally broke up, all admitted that the enjoyment of the night was unalloyed and long to be remembered. The Winfield folks returned home at 3 o’clock on a special train over the Kansas City & Southwestern road, and our own citizens repaired to their several abodes. The anniversary hall was a gratifying success, and the Knights of Pythias have won honor for the handsome and successful manner in which they carried it through.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 26, 1885.
Jerry McGee, the would be incendiary of the Leland Hotel, was acquitted.

Arkansas City Traveler, December 30, 1885.
H. H. Perry, mine host of the Leland, last week purchased 640 acres of improved farm land from D. L. Wright, of Chautauqua County. The land lies seven miles southwest of Sedan, and five miles from Elgin. Mr. Perry owns an adjoining piece of land, 200 acres in extent, and this investment of his makes it look as if he was going into the cattle raising industry.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 30, 1885.
                                                         Railway Strategy.
A party of surveyors numbering fifteen, in the employ of the Santa Fe road, and under the conduct of J. D. Wirt, came to the city on Monday and registered at the Leland Hotel. Their names are: J. D. Wirt, J. P. Prescott, J. C. Oliphant, A. E. Penley, A. C. Cooley, E. S. Strong, Edward Jack, J. H. Phillips, Arthur Marshall, L. Banter, Geo. Barrett, Will Cooley, C. W. Ogee, Arthur Spicer.
After spending two or three days in this city, fitting out for their expedition, they will start out for the territory to survey a route for the extension of the A. T. & S. F. Road to Gainesville, Texas. The route to be taken will depend on the topography of the country. Mules, camp equipage, and transportation were furnished from Kansas City, and the survey will be pushed through with all possible speed. That some important name is on the chess board is evident from the fact that three prominent officials of the Frisco road passed Monday night in Arkansas City, and Mr. James Hill is now in Washington. The same day the board of trade of this city held a meeting, and decided to send Mr. A. A. Newman to Emporia, to interview Senator Plumb. Some strategic game is playing by the rival railroad interests, and what the outcome will be time will, in no long time, develop.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 6, 1886.
Jerry McGee, charged with setting fire to the Leland Hotel, was discharged from the district court, the evidence not being considered sufficient to commit him. On the preliminary examination the only testimony given tending to incriminate him was that of a dining room girl, who swore to seeing a man leave the hotel by a side door and brush past her, whom she took to be McGee, while a number of other citizens testified to his being elsewhere at the time. Judge Kreamer held there was cause to bind the accused over, but there certainly was not sufficient force of testimony to convict.
Arkansas City Republican, January 23, 1886.
The building in Arkansas City promises to be thrible this year to that of last year. The latest building scheme projected is on the lots where the Leland Hotel now stands. We are told that the frame building is to be removed soon and a handsome block supersedes it for a banking institution.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 27, 1886.
On the register of the Leland Hotel, one of the coldest days of last week, the names of the following commercial men were inscribed. David Lindsay, New York City; H. M. LaSalle, St. Louis; Max Rice, Boston; Thomas Carter, Wichita. The trade of this place must be eagerly sought after when five large cities send representatives to rake in a share.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 24, 1886.

T. M. Finney, the popular trader at Kaw, and Walter F. McCabe (of Hale & McCabe, traders at the Osage agency), registered at the Leland last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 24, 1886.
Last Friday Miss Patterson, a teacher in the fourth ward school, and who occupied a room in the Leland Hotel, discovered that her trunk had been robbed of $30 in gold. The trunk was left unlocked, but the money was contained in a small box, locked and kept within the trunk. A sewing girl in the hotel, named Delia Ryan, lately from Kansas City, who roomed with Miss Patterson, also claimed to have been robbed of $20, and suspicion fell on a female guest in the hotel who left for Winfield the next afternoon. This person was arrested at the depot, brought back and searched, and discharged for want of proof. Suspicion then fell on the sewing girl, who was also searched, and the money found sewed up in her clothing. She will be prosecuted for larceny.
Arkansas City Republican, March 27, 1886.
Professor Emil Kuder, The Great German Physician & Surgeon Of Wichita, will be here MARCH 29, At The LELAND HOTEL, And can be consulted for the Next Several Weeks. The Doctor is Well Recommended All over the State of Kansas.
                               For Reference, see Nickel Plate Restaurant Proprietor.
                                     Consultation Free. Call and see him. See Bills.
                                                   C. LAMB, Advance Agent.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 31, 1886.
Capt. Bogardus, the renowned shootist registered at the Leland on Thursday and the next morning took the Ponca stage for a visit to the territory. His errand is to gather up a few progressive aborigines for the show business.
Arkansas City Republican, April 3, 1886.
Doctor Kuder at the Leland Hotel, treats all chronic and surgical diseases. Female Diseases especially treated by Dr. Kuder.
Arkansas City Republican, April 3, 1886.
Homer Deets has established his bath room under the Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 23, 1886.
Our new street commissioner has filled up that bog in front of the Leland Hotel, and he has also repaired that dangerous break in the flume that crosses Fifth Avenue at Sixth Street.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1886.
John M. Watson and his daughter, Eve, were guests at the Leland Hotel last week. They had in charge seven Indians—one a Caddo and two Comanche girls, and one Arapaho and three Cheyenne boys, whom Miss Eva Watson left this city with on Sunday morning to conduct them to the Indian Training School at Wabash, Indiana. The dusky scholars ranged from 12 to 17 years, were neatly and comfortably clad, and were bright and intelligent in appearance. Mr. Jackson departed for the Chilocco school with a Ute boy, and will continue his labors in gathering up Indian children for the various educational establishments.
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.
Teeth extracted without pain or harm by Dr. C. F. Gray, at the Leland Hotel, until May 12.
Arkansas City Republican, May 8, 1886.

Dr. C. F. Gray, the noted painless dentist, is obliged to remain longer at the Leland Hotel—until the 12th.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 22, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
B. G. Kirker, of Maple City, has purchased H. H. Perry’s interest in the Leland Hotel. The consideration was $4,500. Mr. Perry purchased of Mr. Kirker 654 acres of land near Maple City; the consideration was $7,000. Mr. Kirker has taken possession of his purchase and is now mine host of the Leland. Johnnie Hill will remain in the employ of Mr. Kirker. Mr. Perry, we are told, will remove to his cattle ranch in Chautauqua County. The REPUBLICAN can almost picture in its mind Perry transforming himself into a festive cowboy.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
For two business lots, upon which a portion of the Leland Hotel stands, the owner, J. L. Huey, was offered $14,000. The offer was refused. The lot on the corner will be occupied by a large bank building, which is to be put up by the Arkansas City Bank.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
If you want to be happy, call at the Leland Hotel before Saturday and order a fine set of Dickens’ works from Mr. Sugg at twenty-five cents apiece.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
If you have not seen samples of the bankrupt stock of Dickens that Mr. Sugg is giving away in our city, call on him at the Leland before noon tomorrow. He will leave on the 2 o’clock train for Wichita.
Arkansas City Republican, June 12, 1886.
On June 1, 27 guests registered at the Leland Hotel; 24 at the Occidental, 13 at the Monumental, and 7 at the Central Avenue; a total number of visitors arriving in the city for that day of 71. On June 2, 33 registered at the Leland; 23 at the Occidental; 10 at the Monumental; 10 at the Central Avenue; total 76. June 3: Leland 30; Occidental 19; Monumental 17; Central Avenue 18; total 84. June 4: Leland 33; Occidental 23; Monumental 10; Central Avenue 12; total 78. For the four days 309 visitors arrived in the city, an average of 77-1/4 visitors per day.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 24, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
If you want to loan money on business houses or resident houses, call on M. Rosenstein for rates at the Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1886.
                          ARCHIE DUNN, Manager.  ARKANSAS CITY ICE CO.
The best quality of ice kept constantly on hand. Families supplied. Leave orders at the office on Fifth Avenue, rear of Leland Hotel. Arkansas City, Kansas.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1886.
                                       PENNY WISE AND POUND FOOLISH.
                                 Businessmen Who Do Their Best To Ruin the Town.

One day last week a heavy box of paper stock was delivered to the drug store of Steinberger & Coombs, which that enterprising firm had ordered of some Denver house to meet the coming school demand. At the first leisure moment Lute Coombs set himself to unload the package, and when he had taken out and checked off all the goods ordered by his house, he found a heavy remainder of goods at the bottom. Unpacking this and laying it on a separate table, he found a whole raft of job work had been consigned to that firm for distribution to the various parties who had ordered it.
Following is a list of the work.
Leland House: 5,000 envelopes and 5,000 note heads.
Arkansas City Republican, August 14, 1886.
Last evening J. M. Barr and a girl giving her name as Nellie Nash, were arrested at the Leland Hotel for attempting to pass themselves off as man and wife. They were taken before Judge Bryant and fined: Barr $25 and costs, total $36; Nellie, $10 and costs, total $17. They pleaded guilty. They both paid. The amorous couple were from Winfield. They first went to Wellington, remaining there several days; then they came here, where their scheme was headed off by our city officers and the landlord of the Leland. We are told the mother of the wayward girl is a respectable woman who earns her living by working in one of the hotels at Winfield.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 21, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
The real name of the girl who was arrested in the Leland for attempting to pass off as the wife of John M. Barr is Lillie Bauffman instead of the assumed name, Nellie Nash, as reported in yesterday’s daily.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 21, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Frank Hess, the real estate agent, was offered $25,000 for the Leland Hotel corner one day this week. He refused. J. L. Huey, the owner, will erect the finest banking block in the State in the spring. It is to be three stories high and elegant in finish.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1886.
                                                   More Hotel Room Wanted.

When Mr. S. C. Smith started to build his new hotel, some of the more cautious expressed a doubt whether this extensive design was not in advance of the wants of the city. The sum of $50,000 expended in erecting and furnishing a hotel in a city of 4,000 inhabitants (our population at that time) was regarded as hazardous, and the financial success of such an enterprise was considered uncertain. But while the massive stone walls have been going up, all these doubts have been removed. Since last fall our population has increased 50 percent, and is growing daily. Travel has increased two-fold, and the number of strangers repairing here seeking business opportunities, the investment of capital, or employment for their hands, far exceeds the capacity of the few hotels and lodging rooms we have to accommodate them. The Leland Hotel is always full and running over; the Monumental Hotel has all its rooms engaged, and a dozen cots are spread every night for persons seeking lodging; A. E. Kirkpatrick, mine host of the Central Avenue Hotel, is crowded and overflowing into the annex supplied by M. W. Sawyer’s large frame building on the east. The European Restaurant, kept by Geo. A. Druitt, furnishes lodging for a dozen men, and turns away double that number. C. L. Kloos, of the Nickel Plate Restaurant, is negotiating with his landlord, J. C. Topliff, for the upper portion of the Houghton block, with a view to furnishing a score of rooms for lodgers; and G. A. Groglode, of the Bradford Restaurant, has his tables crowded at every meal, but is hampered badly in his business through having no rooms for lodgers. This condition of things shows the urgent need of more extended hotel accommodations, and that a profitable business is awaiting the St. James Hotel from the day that its doors shall be opened.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 25, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Saturday evening the Leland Hotel came near being consumed by fire. Policeman Beck and Dr. R. M. Young were standing on the corner in front of the building when the odor of burning cotton was smelled by them. They made a search and in the laundry they found a bed quilt on fire. It was promptly extinguished.
Excerpt...
[CITY COUNCIL.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 25, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
J. L. Huey asked permission to erect a coal office on the rear of the Leland Hotel lots and was by motion rejected.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 25, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
The Leland Hotel changes proprietors tomorrow. B. G. Kirker retires, covered all over with landlord honors, and W. J. Ward, of Burden, succeeds him.
[The above article does not agree with the next one. Republican stated “W. J. Ward, of Burden.” Traveler article stated “J. D. Ward, a Dexter benefactor.” MAW]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 29, 1886.
On Saturday the Leland Hotel changed hands, its late proprietor, B. G. Kirker, turning over the business to J. D. Ward, a Dexter benefactor of some celebrity. The new landlord celebrated the change of hands by inviting a host of friends to dinner on Sunday. His hospitality was partaken by about 200 guests who sat down to as bounteous a repast as was ever served up in this city. The cooking was excellent, and the table service prompt and efficient, two or three waiters being stationed at every table. Mr. Ward, as a caterer, has won the favorable regard of all the patrons of the house, and he starts upon his new enterprise with the spirit of a man who can keep a hotel. John D. Hill, we are glad to announce, will be retained as chief clerk. Mr. Kirker will remain in the city.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 13, 1886.
Hon. J. D. C. Atkins, Indian Commissioner, with his son, arrived in this city on Sunday, and started the following day for the Osage Agency, under the escort of John D. Ward, mine host of the Leland.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 23, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
John F. Dugan, of Chicago, arrived in the city last evening. He came here on an emigrant excursion ticket. He took a room at the Leland Hotel. Last night sometime his mind became badly unsettled, and he left his room, went over to the National Bank, and upstairs, and in some way effected an entrance into Dr. J. A. Loomis’ office. This morning he was found there and was crazy, but not violent. He imagined someone had him imprisoned and was after his money. Some boys told him, the crazy man, McClellan was his brother, and he was trying to get away from him. Dugan appears harmless. His intellect appears to have suddenly given away. The police took him to the depot and sent him back to Chicago, for which place he held a return ticket.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1886.

Dr. Breen, the celebrated eye and ear doctor, of Wichita, is on a professional visit to this city, and patients who wish to consult him will find the doctor for one week at the Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Miss Sarah Emery and Miss Gilbert are prepared to do first-class dressmaking. Room No. 25, Leland Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 3, 1886.
Dr. Breen, the ear and eye specialist from Wichita, again announces his stay in our city, the Leland Hotel being his headquarters. His credentials as an M. D. having been disputed, the doctor has placed his diploma from the Georgetown (D. C.) College, and his permit to practice medicine in Illinois granted by the state board of health, in the TRAVELER office.
                                Peter Pearson Purchases Leland Hotel Property.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 13, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Yesterday George Druitt purchased the business lot of Peter Pearson next to Cunningham’s implement establishment. The consideration was $9,000. Mr. Pearson immediately made the purchase of the Leland Hotel property of J. L. Huey. He gave $16,000 for it. F. J. Hess made the sale.
                         Arkansas City Bank to be Built on Leland Hotel Corner.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 1, 1886.
The Arkansas City Bank has been chartered as a corporate institution under the state law, and will re-organize for a fresh start on January 1st. The incorporators are Samuel Newell, Gen. L. Whitman (of New York), James L. Huey, Chas. Hutchins, and Frank J. Hess. The intention of the officers is to build next spring on the Leland Hotel corner a three-story and basement bank, the full size of the lot, 25 by 132 feet, in a style of solid elegance that will be surpassed by no similar building in the state. The business of this banking institution has kept pace with the commercial growth of the city and county; a spirit of judicious accommodation being its recognized policy, and the competence and financial standing of its owners and officers above question. Sound banks are a vital necessity to business prosperity, and Arkansas City is favored in the ability of its banking houses.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 4, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
An inebriated painter was sitting this morning in the Leland Hotel office catching a few winks of sleep, which he had lost last night. The boys around the hotel resolved to play a wicked trick upon him. They secured a large cork, split one end, and stuck the other full of brimstone matches and then fastened it onto the drunken painter’s nose. The matches were touched off and were half burned up when he awoke and saw his nose on fire. At first he thought it was a “malt blossom,” but finally the heat became so intense that he summoned up enough of his paralyzed senses to knock the cork from his nose. The joke was not only dangerous but very wicked. The poor inebriate might have ruined his eyesight.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1886.
The Leland Hotel has again changed hands, Stinson & Scott having bought out John D. Ward.
Excerpt...
[HELPING THE POOR IN ARKANSAS CITY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, December 8, 1886.

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.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 11, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Leland Hotel has changed proprietors. Stinson & Scott are the gentlemen who have charge of it. Ward retires.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1886.
H. H. Perry, our former genial host of the Leland Hotel, spent a few days in town last week. He is now fattening beeves for the use of other hotel keepers, but expresses a preference for his former occupation.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 18, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Forty commercial men took their dinners at the Leland Hotel today. They came in on the Santa Fe morning passenger.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 15, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.
J. D. Ward was arrested by Johnnie Breene this afternoon, and taken before Judge Lindsay. He was charged with selling mortgaged property by J. W. DeFord. Ward was formerly the proprietor of the Leland Hotel. He sold his furniture to DeFord and gave a clear bill of sale. Shortly after the sale a man turned up with a mortgage of $173 against Ward on the furniture. DeFord had to pay the mortgage. Judge Lindsay bound Ward over in the sum of $1,000 to appear for trial next Tuesday afternoon at 1 o’clock.
Excerpt...
[ARKANSAS CITY. BUILDING BOOM.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 5, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
                       Plans for Bank Building to Replace Leland Hotel Outlined.
J. L. Huey, on the lots on the corner of 5th Avenue and Summit Street, will have erected the handsomest bank building in the Arkansas Valley. The building will be 50 x 132 feet, the fronts being of pressed brick trimmed with cut stone. Mr. Huey is away now attending to the plans and specifications. Work will begin on this block in the early spring. The lease on the frame building used as the Leland Hotel expires in March, after which it will be removed and be replaced as above stated. Peter Pearson will also build a business house 25 x 128 feet for his mammoth furniture store. It will be located on the lot next to the Arkansas City bank.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 19, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
John McGrew was arrested this morning by Night Watch Beck, charged with assaulting John Malone with a knife. They got in a quarrel in the Leland Hotel this morning at about 4 o’clock. Malone was cut but slightly. In Judge Kreamer’s court McGrew was found guilty and fined $10 and costs.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 19, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.

John Doe and Richard Roe were arrested this morning for assaulting J. E. Howe and robbing him of $55 down in the “dive” beneath the Leland Hotel last night. The three were railroaders just up from the Territory. The warrant was issued from Judge Kreamer’s court and the accused appeared there this afternoon. The case was dismissed for the want of evidence.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 26, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Sam Matthews was arrested last evening for running a joint, by Capt. Rarick. Shortly afterward Matthews escaped. The usually vigilant Captain went into the Leland Hotel with his prisoner and began looking over the register. The prisoner seeing Capt.’s back turned, skipped. Capt. now roams the streets in “sack cloth and ashes.”
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 12, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
The work of moving the Leland Hotel began this morning. It will take about two weeks to do it. Messrs. Godfrey and Adams have the contract.
               REMOVAL OF THE LELAND HOTEL, AN OLD “LANDMARK.”
Arkansas City Republican, March 19, 1887.
Work on the moving of the Leland Hotel has begun. The old part of the hotel was built in 1871 by H. O. Meigs, and is therefore entitled to the name of an old “landmark.” Now it is to be taken away and succeeded by the handsomest three-story bank building in the state. As time progresses the prediction of Prof. Norton, one of the originators of the Arkansas City town company, is being fulfilled. When the townsite was being surveyed, Prof. Norton claimed that there would be a great city here on account of its many natural advantages. This site, in his opinion, was the best one the state offered for the founding and the building of a great city.

                                                                 NOTES.
Name of “City Hotel” was changed to “Leland Hotel.”
[RKW said Leland Hotel was moved to North First Street.]
Site location became known as “200 South Summit Street.”
Last occupant of a building on this site: Smyer Travel Service.
                                                  Residence of H. O. Meigs.
The 1887 Handbook of Arkansas City had a sketch of the H. O. Meigs’ residence.
Larry Rhodes said the current address for site on which Meigs built his house would be Washington Avenue and A Street. The house was turned over to the Y. M. C. A.
In order to fully understand the arrival and departure of Meigs, it is necessary to study the H. O. Meigs file. He was a very interesting man and contributed much to the development of Arkansas City.
                                                    MAW November 4, 2000