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Commercial Block
[A. A. NEWMAN & CO.]
A. A. Newman & Co. was a partnership until March 1887.
Partners: A. A. Newman, his brother-in-law, Wyard E. Gooch, and J. R. L. Adams.
In March 1887, partnership was dissolved. Company became a joint stock company.
Name Change: The Newman Dry Goods Co.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
Spring will open with a grand rush of building. Chapel and Means will then commence their contemplated building, 50 x 125, in block 79; Newman his in block 70, 50 x 100.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
We see some of our neighboring towns making loud brags about the amount of improvements made in their respective localities. We are candid in saying that it is impossible to ascertain the amount of improvements made here in the last year. The number of dwellings amounted at the very least to 250. We will put them at a very low estimate, $500 each. This makes $125,000. Then we have the Commercial and Hasie Blocks, $75,000; the Cowley County Bank, $25,000, the new schoolhouse, $10,000; the Houghton Block, $7,500; the Mason building, $2,000; Sipes’ block, $7,500; H. P. Farrar, $5,000; addition to the building occupied by Wyckoff & Son, $2,000; Baptist Church, $3,000; Christian Church, $2,500; Free Methodist Church, $1,000; Methodist and Presbyterian Churches, repairs, $1,500; W. M. Blakeney, $1,500; Leland Hotel, $4,000; Newman, building block 69, $1,000; Arkansas City Building Association, $5,000; Skating Rink, $1,500; J. H. Punshon, $1,000; D. W. Stevens and L. Eldridge, $1,000; Beecher & Co. and McLaughlin Bros., $1,500; J. H. Hilliard, $1,000; Thompson & Woodin, $1,000; Chambers, $1,000; J. Alexander, $1,500; Ayres’ Mill and Landes, Beall & Co., improvements, $1,000; DeBruce, $1,000; Park & Lewis and W. M. Rose, $1,000; Kroenert & Austin and Stedman Bros., $1,000; A. Harly, $1,000.
These, which we recall on the spur of the moment, foot up nearly three hundred thousand dollars. We are confident that we are not exaggerating when we place the amount above five hundred thousand dollars, which shows a fair gain for our thriving little city.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 20, 1884.
Commercial Building Association.
The above is the name of a new stock company formed in this city last week, the charter members of which are M. S. Hasie, George E. Hasie, W. M. Sleeth, H. P. Farrar, A. A. Newman, T. H. McLaughlin, George W. Cunningham, and T. R. Houghton. The immediate object of this company is the erection of a building on Summit street, just south of Cunning-ham’s new implement house, 125 feet front, 132 feet deep, and three stories high. The TRAVELER mentioned last week the fact that the Messrs. Hasie were to put up a commodious business structure, and when these gentlemen showed the design of their building to the gentlemen directly interested in the lots, and the suggestion was made that one solid block be built, the plan at once commended itself to all parties as one in keeping with the growth of our city. We have seen the plans for Messrs. Hasies’ part of the block, and must say they are very elaborate. It is of the style now most generally adopted by the San Francisco builders, known as the bay front style, above the first story. On the second story front are three bay windows, the center one square and the side windows octagonal. The front and rear of the first story will be almost entirely of glass, in order to get sufficient light to accommodate the great length. The height of the first story from ceiling to floor will be seventeen feet, the second fourteen, and the third twelve, and a ten foot basement runs the entire length. This will doubtless be the style adopted for the complete block, which, taken with the admirable interior arrangements, will make the Commercial and Hasie blocks the finest in Southern Kansas. The enterprise of the eight gentlemen comprising the Commercial Building Association speaks loudly to their credit, and will be a sure means of profit to themselves, not to mention the advantage accruing to the city in the way of advertising its business vim and prosperity.
Arkansas City Republican, February 23, 1884.
Notice to Contractors.
Proposals will be received until February 28th, for furnishing and delivering about 400 cords of good building rock; 1,500 yards of coarse clean building sand; and for the excavation of cellar and foundation walls of the Commercial Block, to be built fronting on Summit street. Proposals must be in writing, and can be for any part or the whole of the rock, sand, or the excavating, but a separate proposition must be made for each one. The proposition must be delivered to Geo. W. Cunningham, and those for rock and sand to be accompanied by a sample, showing the quality of that proposed to be delivered.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
The new block to be put up by the Commercial Building Association on Summit street, will be 125 x 132 feet and three stories in height. Of this the Hasie Brothers building, 50 x 132 feet, is put up by them independently of the association so far as cost is concerned, but for the sake of mutual benefit and economy, bids were received upon the whole as one building.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
Stockholders of the Commercial Building Association, of Arkansas City.
This association, of which we gave particulars in a former issue, is now in readiness for active work, all its shares being taken, as will be seen by the following list of stockholders.
Name. Shares. Amount.
Geo. E. Hasie 20 $2,000
M. S. Hasie 20 $2,000
A. A. Newman 20 $2,000
G. W. Cunningham 20 $2,000
H. P. Farrar 20 $2,000
W. M. Sleeth 20 $2,000
T. R. Houghton 20 $2,000
J. L. Huey 20 $2,000
T. H. McLaughlin 10 $1,000
F. J. Hess 5 $ 500
J. C. Topliff 5 $ 500
W. S. Houghton 5 $ 500
Kimmel & Moore 5 $ 500
Howard Bros. 5 $ 500
A. J. Chapel 5 $ 500
TOTAL SHARES: 200 TOTAL AMOUNT: $20,000
Arkansas City Traveler, March 5, 1884.
The site of the new Commercial block was surveyed last Monday, and the contracts for excavating cellars, foundation walls, rock, and sand were let last Friday to Mr. J. H. Covey. Work was commenced thereon yesterday.
Arkansas City Republican, March 22, 1884.
The excavating and grading for the Hasie and Commercial blocks is rapidly approaching completion.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 9, 1884.
W. A. Lee, of Winfield, has purchased of T. H. McLaughlin, the corner lot south of the Commercial block for $1,800.
Arkansas City Republican, April 12, 1884.
Work to be Performed in Arkansas City During This Summer.
First and foremost is the Hasie and Commercial blocks on east Summit Street costing $40,000. Secondly, the new school building costing $10,000. Next is the First Baptist Church, the estimated cost of which is several thousands of dollars. Then we have the bridge at Harmon’s ford, bonds for which to the amount of $5,000 have been voted. Several new enterprises are contemplated, but have not taken form to a sufficient extent as to warrant us in saying they are certainties. T. A. Gaskill has under course of erection a fine stone pork-packing establishment, and expects to build large additions this fall. There must be at best calculation one hundred dwellings to be built during the summer. Persons traveling over the different parts of the county assure us that no town has a better prospect than our city. Let the good work go on, and without doubt, five thousand inhabitants will be within the limits of Arkansas City before the beginning of the new year.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
Notice. No one is authorized to purchase any supplies or material for the Commercial Building, except the superintendent, and all bills must have his order attached thereto.
GEO. E. HASIE, President.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1884.
The stone masons at work on the Commercial block requested last Saturday that they be allowed to quit work an hour earlier on Saturday. Mr. Hasie, who is superintending the work, was home and sick at the time, and in his absence the request was refused, whereupon the men quit work immediately. As soon as Mr. Hasie heard of it, the demand was conceded, and the masons resumed work Monday noon. It is to be hoped there will be no more trouble.
Arkansas City Republican, May 17, 1884.
W. S. Houghton and wife, of Boston, are in the city visiting their nephew, C. S. Houghton, and J. C. Topliff. Mr. Houghton is one of the wealthiest merchants of Boston, and also owns large railroad interests. He has considerable money invested in real estate in this city, and since his visit here, is so well impressed with the prospects of Arkansas City that he anticipates building a large business house on the two lots adjoining the Hasie and Commercial block on the south. He expressed himself as really surprised to see the rapid advancement made the last few months.
Arkansas City Republican, May 24, 1884.
The work on the Hasie and Commercial block is now being carried on in earnest. It is hoped that it will be completed inside of two months.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1884.
Work upon the Commercial block is progressing but slowly at present, but we are informed a large force of masons will be put on today, and from this time on the work will be completed with the utmost dispatch. It is calculated the building will be ready for occupancy by August 1, 1884.
Arkansas City Republican, June 14, 1884.
There are about one hundred men employed on the Hasie and Commercial blocks.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 25, 1884.
The first story of the Hasie block is nearly completed. The front and back will be almost a solid piece of glass—glass doors or windows being between every support. By the time the third story is finished, it will be the finest building south of Topeka.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 23, 1884.
The second story of the Hasie and Commercial blocks is rapidly assuming definite shape. The rough-ashler finish of the stone work makes it one of the handsomest as well as imposing structures in the state.
Arkansas City Republican, August 2, 1884.
The second story of the Hasie and Commercial blocks is nearly completed.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 6, 1884.
The new Commercial block of this city is progressing finely, the joists for the third story now being put into position. It begins to give some promise of its imposing appearance when completed.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1884.
A stranger in town this week said he had spent three months in traveling over Kansas, and in no city had he seen anything approaching the Commercial block in this city.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 20, 1884.
The north store room of the Commercial block has been rented to a Wellington firm, who intend to swell our boom.
Arkansas City Republican, August 23, 1884.
The stone work on the Hasie & Commercial block has been completed.
Arkansas City Republican, August 23, 1884.
A. A. Newman’s new store room, which is already rented for a hardware store, is nearly completed.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 10, 1884.
Mr. D. Brunswick, Wellington’s king clothier, was in the city yesterday, making arrangements for his fall opening in the new Commercial block. Look out for his big “ad” next week.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 10, 1884.
D. Brunswick, the clothier, is putting in a stock at Arkansas City, which will be in charge of Abe Rosenfield and Sam Weil. We are pleased to see this evidence of prosperity on the part of Mr. Brunswick as he is one our very best citizens. The people of Arkansas City are to be congratulated also. Messrs. Brunswick, Rosenfield, and Weil can be relied on at any time, at any place. Wellington Press.
Arkansas City Republican, September 13, 1884.
Over $6,000 will be the cost of the glass used in the Hasie and Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 17, 1884.
Mr. D. Brunswick comes to the front this week with a modest announcement which our readers will do well to study carefully. It requires no comment from us, speaking for itself in no uncertain tone.
BIG AD. BRUNSWICK’S ARCADE CLOTHING HOUSE [FOLLOWED BY AN ILLUSTRATION SHOWING A RACER BEHIND A TROTTING HORSE WITH A SASH AROUND HIS CHEST THAT SAYS “THE ARCADE.”]
Will be opened about Oct. 1, in north room of Commercial Block.
D. BRUNSWICK, The leading Clothier of the Southwest, will exhibit then the largest and best assorted stock of CLOTHING!
GENT’S FURNISHING GOODS, HATS, BOOTS, AND SHOES, From medium to the very finest.
We Play for the Front and Generally Get There, Through square treatment and one price to all.
WE ARE ALSO PREPARED TO MAKE YOUR SUITS AND SHIRTS TO ORDER.
Fit and Satisfaction Guaranteed. Wait for us.
Respectfully, D. BRUNSWICK.
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
Lathing in the north room of Commercial block has commenced.
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
The sidewalk in front of the Hasie and Commercial blocks will be 12 feet wide and of dressed stone.
Arkansas City Republican, September 20, 1884.
Hasie and Commercial Blocks.
One structure now in course of erection with which the citizens of Arkansas City point with pride is the Hasie and Commercial block on Summit street. We propose in the following brief outline to give our readers an idea of the immensity of this block.
Last March Maj. M. S. Hasie and Geo. E. Hasie arrived in Arkansas City from Denver, Colorado, on a prospecting tour and, after a careful looking over of the advantages of which our thriving city is possessed, were so fascinated with the prospects that they decided to locate here. The erection of the Hasie block was then alone contemplated. When Messrs. Hasie’s views were made known, concerning their large block, a new idea sprang into existence. It was then the plan of the Hasie and Commercial block was formed. In addition to their block, Messrs. Hasie proposed to take stock in the Commercial and so a stock company was formed for the purpose of erecting this building. Thus we have the origin of the Hasie and Commercial blocks.
The building was commenced some five months ago, and notwithstanding so many drawbacks necessary to the erection of so large a structure, it is now nearly completed. The frontage of the block is 128 feet; the depth, 132 feet.
On the first floor there are five mammoth store rooms, each 25 x 132 feet, and 17 feet to ceiling. These rooms are all taken with the exception of one, which we are informed would offer superior advantages to parties desiring to engage in the agricultural implement business. The basement under this room could be used as storage quarters and the ground floor as the display room. Then the elevator in this room from basement to roof would come into execution.
The remaining rooms are to be occupied by D. Brunswick, who will open up a $25,000 stock of clothing, boots and shoes, etc.; A. A. Newman & Co., who will have a double room in which to display their stock of dry goods, clothing, etc. The fourth will be used by Geo. E. Hasie & Co., as a wholesale and retail grocery establishment, and the fifth will, no doubt, be taken by the time of its completion.
The entire building is finished with French plate glass, double strength; 4,000 feet of glass is to be put in the skylights. There are four upstairs rooms, which are as yet not taken, that would be the most available rooms in Kansas for the photographic art. The best of light for this business can be furnished.
In the upper portions of the block, there are 65 rooms. They are so constructed as to be used for hotel purposes. There are three large, bay-front rooms with folding doors, which can be readily thrown into one room, and would make one of the most elegant dining rooms of which we know. A six-foot hallway traverses this portion of the building. Eight hundred feet of passageway is utilized. Two six-foot stairways lead upward, besides the large elevators at the rear of the building. The second and third stories are adorned with bay windows, fourteen in number.
The finish of the front of the block is what is called the San Francisco Palace finish. It is stone front with iron columns and bay windows.
The estimated cost of the building when completed will be $60,000. Maj. S. Hasie is the architect. He has personally superintended its construction. Another building of the Hasie and Commercial block’s dimensions will make Arkansas City a city in reality as well as name. We now far surpass Wichita in fine buildings, and for handsome residence property we doubt if there is another city in the state that can compete with us, taking size in consideration.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1884.
An item of great annoyance at the Commercial and Hasie blocks is the persistency with which loafers and outside parties desire to converse with the carpenters and others employed thereon. It must be remembered that when fifty men are at work, a few minutes from each man amounts to considerable in the aggregate to the employers, who should not be blamed for desiring outsiders to wait until after business hours before talking with the laborers. If you haven’t any business there, before you go into the building, look out for notices.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 11, 1884.
D. Brunswick changes his big ad this week. He will open up Oct. 18th. Look out for the grand opening. It will take a mammoth stock to fill his large business room in the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Republican, October 18, 1884.
The room occupied by Mr. Bluebaugh with his billiard tables, is being refitted for an oyster saloon. Mr. Bluebaugh will open out his billiard hall in the basement of the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 29, 1884.
A. A. Newman & Co. hope to be in their magnificent Commercial block room in about three weeks. It will be the largest and most handsomely appointed mercantile room in Southern Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 5, 1884.
BIG AD: Look out for A. A. Newman & Co.’s REMOVAL to their new store room in the Commercial Block.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1884.
The north basement of the Commercial block is being fitted up for a billiard hall and lunch room.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1884.
Geo. E. Hasie will shortly have his rooms in the second floor of the Commercial block ready for occupancy.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1884.
We are under obligations to Mr. I. H. Bonsall, our photographer, for an elegantly executed photograph of east Summit Street, showing the Highland opera house and the new Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1884.
A. A. Newman & Co. have already begun to move some of the heavier of their unpacked goods to their new store room in the Commercial block, but we presume it will be at least one week before they can welcome their patrons in their new quarters.
Arkansas City Republican, November 15, 1884.
Judge Bonsall this week presented us with a photograph view of the buildings on the east side of Summit street from Sixth avenue south, including the Commercial block building. It is 12 x 16 inches in size, and shows the work of an artist.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
A. A. Newman & Co. have commenced moving their stock into their new quarters in the Commercial Block. For convenience, room, and appearance, their double store is far ahead of anything we have seen in Southern Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, November 22, 1884.
Newman & Co., are moving to the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1884.
A. A. Newman & Co. are determined to let the people know they are in their new store, hence their little unobtrusive “ad” in the TRAVELER this week. This firm have undoubtedly the finest store room in Southern Kansas, and a stock of goods to suit their magnificent new quarters.
BIG AD. A. A. NEWMAN & CO. desire to announce to their Friends, Patrons, and Strangers in the city and country, that they have now removed their stock to their new and commodious room in the COMMERCIAL BLOCK, Where they would be pleased to receive their appreciated visits at any time.
We think we have one of the most elegant places of business in Southern Kansas, with sufficient room and a splendid light to show goods to their best advantage and to the entire satisfaction of our customers.
Our stock of Dry Goods, Clothing, Carpets, Boots, Shoes, Notions, Ladies’ and Children’s Winter Wraps, etc., is very complete in all its branches.
This is an invitation for everybody to call and see us and we will try to make you feel at home. Your Friends,
A. A. NEWMAN AND CO.
Commercial Block between 4th & 5th Avenues.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 26, 1884.
The new billiard hall underneath the north room of the Commercial block is nearly ready for occupancy.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 3, 1884.
The new Commercial Block Billiard Hall was opened with great eclat last Thursday night. The room is fixed up in a very attractive manner, and will undoubtedly prove such an attraction as will compel the boys to spend their spare time and their dimes therein.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 10, 1884.
J. N. L. Gibson moved his barber shop to the front of the billiard hall in the basement of the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
Our Commercial Block is rapidly nearing completion. A force of carpenters is kept constantly at work finishing up the second and third stories.
Excerpts from a lengthy article...
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
ARKANSAS CITY.
Her Business Firms and Their Establishments.
Since the construction of the canal, our boom has been rapid and substantial. About 250 residences and store rooms have been erected since the holidays of 1883 and carpenters are still busy building more. Town property is advancing instead of receding as some predicted. Good houses can be purchased from $500 to $2,000. It is next to an impossibility to rent one. Our real estate agents have at the least calculation on their books some 150 houses which they rent. They inform us if they were agents for as many more, they could find tenants. There is not an empty store room in the city. All are occupied and the merchants doing an excellent business. The Hasie and Commercial block, the largest and handsomest building in the state, is almost complete. Three of the store rooms are already occupied and the remaining two will be as soon as finished. Traveling men inform us that it eclipses any building outside of Kansas City. The frontage of the block is 128 feet; the depth 132 feet; and four stories high. There are three business rooms 25 x 132 feet, and one 50 x 132 feet. The upstairs portion of this block would afford superior advantages for a hotel.
Now that we have told you of our city, we present to you our business firms and their establishments.
D. BRUNSWICK
is the proprietor of the Arcade Clothing house. The Arcade is located in the north room of the Commercial block. Several months ago Mr. Brunswick’s attention was attracted to Arkansas City by her wonderful growth. He came here and investigated and was so thoroughly convinced of the town’s great future that he invested his idle capital—some $40,000—in the Arcade. Mr. Brunswick is a thorough businessman and is up to the times. He never misses a chance when one is offered to benefit his customers. He saw an opening here for a first-class clothing house, and has established it. Last October he opened up the Arcade. The time of opening was a gala day. People for miles around came and visited the Arcade, and were agreeably surprised at the immensity of the enterprise. They did not expect to have their eyes behold a store-room 132 feet deep by 25 feet in width, equipped with patent shelving on both sides of the room and it loaded up to the seventeen foot ceilings with a well selected stock. In addition, some sixty table counters serve to pile a portion of their clothing on. As you enter the door of the Arcade, your eyes are greeted with beautiful visions of gent’s furnishing goods on one side and hats and caps on the other. A cheerful and courteous salutation reaches your ears either from Sam Wile or Albert Levy, the managers. Always on the alert, ready to accommodate you and sell you clothing at one price to all. No discretion is made at the Arcade between the rich or poor, plebeian or yeomanry, but all are treated alike. The prices are marked on the goods. No deviation is allowed by Mr. Brunswick. He buys such large quantities of clothing, paying the cash therefor, that he is enabled to sell it cheaper than any of his competitors. He attaches such a small advance to the cost mark of his clothing that his competitors wonder how he can afford to carry on business. But he does it and with profit to himself and his customers. For the holidays Mr. Brunswick has provided the Arcade with hundreds of different styles of overcoats from $2.50 up to the costliest. Since the cold snap set in, Mr. Brunswick ordered a “mark down” on these goods. The man of a large family of boys can now purchase each a new overcoat and still have means left to defray the other Christmas festivities. We are glad to say many are availing themselves of the benefit of Mr. Brunswick’s generosity. Overcoats are not all that is displayed at the Arcade. In addition, beautiful silk handkerchiefs, gloves, mitts, the handsomest neckties we ever saw in a showcase, slippers, boots, shoes, trunks, valises, etc. This is not one-half. Go and see the boys at the Arcade even if you do not make any purchases. In the evening when the Arcade is lighted up, it is a marvel of beauty. Their numerous large electric lamps, placed in various parts of the room, give out a light almost equal to the radiancy of the sun. The laborer can get just as good a bargain at the Arcade at night as in the daytime. The room is well lighted for this purpose. Before closing our eulogy on the Arcade, we desire to pay a compliment to the managers, Sam Wile and Albert Levy, for their beautifully adorned show-windows and their civility to customers. Every article has a place, and it is always found there. Messrs. Wile and Levy can instantly set their hands on it. Customers do not grow impatient at waiting for the clerks to look up what they want. Call for what you want and you get it immediately at the Arcade. Coming to Arkansas City a few months ago as strangers, they by their gentlemanly bearing and business qualifications now count their friends by the score. Don’t forget the Arcade in your holiday rounds.
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
Sporting Men Attention!
Christmas day a shooting match will occur in the suburbs of the city for a 750 pound hog and 200 nice fat turkeys. For any further information, call at Bluebaugh’s Billiard Hall under Commercial Block.
Sportsmen can now have a chance to show their skill with the rifle. The fun will commence at 2 p.m. Come out and take a shot.
Arkansas City Republican, January 17, 1885.
F. K. Grosscup and sister, Miss Florence, have fitted up rooms in the Commercial block and are rooming there.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
Spring will open with a grand rush of building. Chapel and Means will then commence their contemplated building, 50 x 125, in block 79; Newman his in block 70, 50 x 100.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
We see some of our neighboring towns making loud brags about the amount of improvements made in their respective localities. We are candid in saying that it is impossible to ascertain the amount of improvements made here in the last year. The number of dwellings amounted at the very least to 250. We will put them at a very low estimate, $500 each. This makes $125,000. Then we have the Commercial and Hasie Blocks, $75,000; the Cowley County Bank, $25,000, the new schoolhouse, $10,000; the Houghton Block, $7,500; the Mason building, $2,000; Sipes’ block, $7,500; H. P. Farrar, $5,000; addition to the building occupied by Wyckoff & Son, $2,000; Baptist Church, $3,000; Christian Church, $2,500; Free Methodist Church, $1,000; Methodist and Presbyterian Churches, repairs, $1,500; W. M. Blakeney, $1,500; Leland Hotel, $4,000; Newman, building block 69, $1,000; Arkansas City Building Association, $5,000; Skating Rink, $1,500; J. H. Punshon, $1,000; D. W. Stevens and L. Eldridge, $1,000; Beecher & Co. and McLaughlin Bros., $1,500; J. H. Hilliard, $1,000; Thompson & Woodin, $1,000; Chambers, $1,000; J. Alexander, $1,500; Ayres’ Mill and Landes, Beall & Co., improvements, $1,000; DeBruce, $1,000; Park & Lewis and W. M. Rose, $1,000; Kroenert & Austin and Stedman Bros., $1,000; A. Harly, $1,000.
These, which we recall on the spur of the moment, foot up nearly three hundred thousand dollars. We are confident that we are not exaggerating when we place the amount above five hundred thousand dollars, which shows a fair gain for our thriving little city.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 7, 1885.
The Commercial Building Association have been granted a permit to put in a large cistern and cess pool at the rear of the Hasie and Commercial blocks. These blocks are going to have water works of their own. D. L. Means furnishes the windmill to pump the water.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 25, 1885.
Drs. Shepard & Hart will shortly engage in the practice of medicine together with offices in the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 4, 1885.
Henry Bowe and family arrived Monday. Mr. Bowe is the owner of the horses now being kept in the rear of the Commercial block, of which A. W. Patterson is the agent.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 4, 1885.
We call the attention of our stockmen to the communication in another column signed “Stockman.” We think the suggestion made is very good and should meet their approbation.
To Stockmen.
Ed. Traveler: In conversing with a large number of parties interested in the stock interests in this vicinity, I find it to be a very general expressed desire that an association of stock men with headquarters in your city and having for its object the maintaining of a club or reading rooms where the current publications in the interest of this industry could be found and a general place of meeting for stockmen when in the city, would meet with a hearty support. Now Mr. Editor, in this connection, I would ask you to give notice that all persons favoring such an association are invited to meet in the room over Brunswick’s store in the Commercial Block on Saturday next, March 7, at 3 p.m. STOCKMAN.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 4, 1885.
Ad.
Kindlings and Shavings for sale cheap. Inquire of the Janitor of the Commercial Block.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
A. A. Newman & Co., call the attention of our readers to their new spring stock, in this issue. They can and will meet all competition in their line, and will welcome all who shall call on them in their handsome double store in the Commercial Block.
BIG AD. A. A. NEWMAN & CO.
Invite Special Attention to their Elegant Line of Ladies’, Misses’, and Children’s SHOES. Our Spring Stock of these goods is now arriving, and we are prepared to show a line unsurpassed for Variety, Style, Neatness, and DURABILITY. We are Agents for the Celebrated ZIEGLER BRO.’S SHOE, and Guarantee Every Pair. In medium and low priced goods we carry full lines of many well known manufacturers.
We invite a careful inspection of our stock, and are confident we can please you in every respect. Very Truly Yours,
A. A. Newman & Co., Commercial Block, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
Miss Nellie E. Thompson, the new music teacher, whose card will be found on this page, is now staying at the residence of Mrs. J. P. Johnson. She has rented music rooms in the Commercial Block, which she will occupy as soon as her piano arrives. The graceful and accomplished lady is welcomed to our midst and recommended to our patrons.
CARD. Miss Nellie E. Thompson. Teacher of music, painting, and embroidery. Orders filled for china painting, hand painted dresses, bonnet crowns, and fancy work. Sheet music supplied. Call at Mrs. J. P. Johnson’s.
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
A. A. NEWMAN & CO., have received their Spring Stock of C-A-R-P-E-T-S, consisting of Moquettes, Velvets, Body Brussels, Tapestry Brussels, Three Plies, Ingrains, Cotton Chains, Hemps, Etc. The designs and colors selected are very pretty, and our PRICES ARE LOWER THAN EVER BEFORE In the history of the carpet trade of this city.
Their line of Velvet, Smyrna, and Body Brussels Rugs is not surpassed in the Southwest.
Their Stock of Lace Curtains is also Full and Complete.
It will be to your interest to give their stock a careful inspection before buying.
COMMERCIAL BLOCK.
Arkansas City Republican, April 4, 1885.
Remember the supper at the Commercial Block rooms Wednesday evening given by the Ladies’ Episcopal Society.
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
The Commercial Restaurant is the name of a new eating house established in the south basement room of the Commercial Block.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 15, 1885.
Two of the children of T. M. Sayman were baptized Sunday by the Rev. McKay, in the hall of the Commercial block. Chas. Hutchins stood as godfather. These are the first baptisms in the city under the Episcopal ritual.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 22, 1885.
The front of the Commercial block has received a new coat of paint, and is handsomely dressed for the season.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 22, 1885.
Dr. M. B. Vawter is now occupying room No. 1 in the Commercial block as a Dentist’s office, where he invites his patrons to call upon him.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 22, 1885.
The Commercial Block.
While our city government is deliberating on the means of supplying our city with water, the owners of the Commercial block are providing a water system of their own. Its completeness reflects credit in their judgment, and the outlay involved bears ample testimony to their enterprise. A tour through the building made by our reporter, with Major Hasie as guide, gave him a knowledge of the details which may, perhaps, be interesting to the reader. The roof surface contains 18,000 feet, and the rain caught on this is carried through four down pipes, and thence through an eight inch stone pipe to a cistern holding 2,000 barrels. A well has also been sunk 112 feet, which has for power a 14 foot windmill with a 62 foot tower. An iron supply pipe 1½ inches in diameter connects the cistern with the mill, and another pipe of similar size, connected with the windmill, raises the water in that receptacle to the tank on the roof. Two surface pumps, directly below the windmill and the operating shaft of the same, can be connected or disconnected at pleasure, so that water can be drawn from the cistern or the well as occasion requires.
On the roof two tanks, with a capacity of 100 barrels each, are placed, connected directly with a 2½ inch pipe (interior diameter), which serves as a distributing main. The service pipes fed by this main pipe supply the bath rooms, water closets, and sinks. A boiler connected with the distributing pipe, heats 200 gallons of water per hour. Hot and cold water pipes thus traverse the building.
On the basement and store floors and on the second story, hose bibs are provided to which hose will be attached in case of fire. A hose reel with 250 feet of hose, is kept adjacent to the elevator, to be hoisted or lowered as required, and run through the corridors to any part of the building. The young men employed in the building will be trained in the use of the hose, and should their services be demanded, they will be competent to deal with a fire without flurry or confusion. The plumbers and other tradesmen are still employed on these preparations, and when the work is completed, the occupants of the building will have as complete a water service as could be furnished in any of the eastern cities.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 29, 1885.
The large cistern sunk in the rear of the Commercial Block, with a capacity of 2,000 barrels, has caved in as a consequence of the heavy rains, and a contract has been let to wall the sides with stone. Workmen are now engaged in removing the loose earth.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 29, 1885.
The detachment of the Ninth U. S. Cavalry, stationed here watching the boomers, will shortly leave this state for the department of the Platte, to garrison posts in Nebraska. The post quartermaster, 1st Lieut. O’Conner, of the 9th [? 8th ?] cavalry, will shortly vacate his office in the Commercial block, and devote his own residence, near the depot, to official uses. We understand that several troops of the fifth cavalry will replace the force now here.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
Dr. C. S. Acker places his professional card in our columns. He has lately hung out his shingle in this city, and is working up a nice practice.
CARD. C. S. ACKER, M. D., PHYSICIAN AND SURGEON, Late of Chicago.
Office and residence in Commercial block. Prompt attention given to all calls in the practice of Medicine and Surgery, in city or country, night and day.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 20, 1885.
OUR SPRING STOCK! -OF- STAPLE AND FANCY DRY GOODS, NOTIONS, HOSIERY, SILKS, DRESS GOODS, TRIMMINGS, ETC. IS NOW ARRIVING.
Don’t fail to examine our elegant line of novelties in Prints, Ginghams, White Goods, Ladies’ Neckwear, Ladies’ Jerseys, Shawls, Embroidered Shoulder Scarfs, and Spring Wraps. Our stock of Carpets, Mattings, Lace and Cloth Curtains is full and complete and one of the most extensive to be found in the southwest.
Your visit will be appreciated by us any time. Very Truly Yours,
A. A. NEWMAN & CO., Commercial Block, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 29, 1885.
Mr. Bonsall has left with us some fine photographic views of the Hasie and Commercial block and of the raging Arkansas in the neighborhood of the west bridge at the time of the recent flood.
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 Republican, August 1, 1885.
Judge Bonsall presents the REPUBLICAN with two splendid views this week. One was taken at the west bridge at the time the Arkansas was on such a high, and the other is of the Hasie and Commercial blocks.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 8, 1885.
1886 FALL AND WINTER. 1886
OPENING.
A. G. HEITKAM,
MERCHANT TAILOR.
We are now ready for business, with an entire new line of FALL and WINTER goods. We have better facilities for Fine Tailoring than ever. We can show as complete a stock as can be found west of Kansas City. We guarantee satisfaction, have engaged new workmen, and will DUPLICATE Eastern prices and discount Home prices on all our work.
We invite an inspection of our stock and prices. Respectfully, A. G. HEITKAM.
Basement of Commercial Block under A. A. Newman’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 14, 1885.
One of the handsome bay windows of the Commercial block is now ornamented with the names of Drs. Shepard & Acker, as a medical firm, in bold gilt lettering.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 17, 1885.
High School Notes.
The pupils are delighted with the prospect of removing to the Commercial Block, and hope the school board will find no obstacles in the way.
Arkansas City Republican, October 24, 1885.
Peter Pearson has rented the north room in the Commercial Block, formerly occupied by D. Brunswick, and will soon occupy it with his mammoth stock of furniture. When Mr. Pearson gets fixed up in his new quarters, he will have the largest and best furniture establishment in Southern Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, October 24, 1885.
L. F. Abernethy, of Mitchell County, this state, is in the city. Mr. Abernethy is an applicant for a position in our public schools, when the change occurs of moving the high school department into the rooms of Commercial Block. Mr. Abernethy, in order to keep up with the times, came in and subscribed for the REPUBLICAN.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 28, 1885.
AD. REMOVAL! Finding my own store inadequate to display my new and extensive stock of FURNITURE, I have removed to the north store of the Commercial Block (formerly occupied by D. Brunswick), where there is more room to exhibit my goods.
THE PUBLIC is respectfully invited to call at my new quarters, and look over the most elegant and best assorted stock of Household Goods ever offered for sale in this city. The lines of goods are too numerous to mention in detail, but I am prepared to outfit all classes from the laborer to the millionaire. Prices to Suit the Times.
PETER PEARSON.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 28, 1885.
OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Additional Rooms to be Provided and Two More Teachers Engaged.
We paid a visit to some of the city schools a few days ago, to see whether the young idea is being successfully taught to shoot. The trouble that encounters the school board, and the teachers who endeavor to carry out their plans, is the lack of sufficient funds. Our city population grows more rapidly than means are provided to supply its wants. The enumeration of persons of school age this year gave 1,120 names, and when the present term opened 700 scholars enrolled their names, which has since been increased to upwards of 800. This was in excess of the facilities provided, and reduced the school board to shifts, which are not satisfactory to themselves or profitable to the scholars. Some rooms are overcrowded to such an extent that the teachers cannot do justice to their scholars; in other rooms the children are divided into relays, one-half being taught in the forenoon and the remainder in the afternoon. In view of the fact that the school session will not exceed seven months and may be reduced to six, thus overcrowding the room and giving the primary scholars only half tuition, is not considered a full award to taxpayers for their outlay, and to increase the facilities it has been deemed expedient by the trustees to hire two or three rooms in the Commercial block, and employ two additional teachers. This will increase the expense of running our schools, and may shorten their operation to six months, but it is considered only just to the supporters of our schools who demand that proper facilities be provided, and of the two evils presented the trustees to choose from this is considered the least.
The school assessment of 10 mills on the dollar will probably raise $4,500, and the allowance from the state on our increased enumeration will probably turn in $2,500 more. The state quota is more liberal than was at first estimated, and with the amount of resources thus furnished, the school trustees feel themselves justified in extending their facilities as above indicated.
[NOTE: SCHOOL TAUGHT IN COMMERCIAL BLOCK. ARTICLE DOES NOT MENTION HASIE BLOCK...WHICH IN 1885 WAS USED BY HASIE BROS. AS A GROCERY STORE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 4, 1885.
Poker Room Raided.
Some excitement was created on Saturday evening by the arrest of Frank Bluebaugh for keeping a poker room, in the basement under the Commercial block. Information was lodged with City Marshal Gray, by one Jones, who admitted he was running the game for a commission paid by Bluebaugh, but there being no city ordinance imposing a penalty for such offense, the case was placed in the hands of Constable Frank Thompson, to proceed against under the state law. On Saturday evening he visited the place, and arrested the proprietor, entrusting him to the custody of an assistant, while he proceeded to take in others implicated. But the prisoner eluded the vigilance of his custodian, and issuing from the hall, set out for parts unknown. This misadventure seems to have stayed all further proceedings.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 11, 1885.
Furniture for the high school arrived yesterday, and will be set up in the rooms rented for that purpose in the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 11, 1885.
Messrs. Prettyman & McFarland have located themselves in this city and have engaged rooms in the Commercial block, which they are fitting for a photography gallery. Both are evidently stirring citizens.
Arkansas City Republican, November 14, 1885.
Rev. Chas. Boles of the M. E. Church South, will preach in the new schoolroom in Commercial Block, Sunday, at seven o’clock p.m. Rev. W. J. Blakey will be present also.
Arkansas City Republican, November 14, 1885.
A. G. Heitkam has removed his tailoring establishment from the basement in the Commercial block to the room next south of the post office. By the way, you will find handsome piece goods at Mr. Heitkam’s new quarters from which to make your winter suit.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 18, 1885.
Prettyman & McFarland are fitting up their photograph gallery in the Commercial block in elegant style and are now waiting for their new outfit to arrive.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 21, 1885.
Notes from the Commercial Block-heads.
(The above caption was furnished by the correspondent. ED.)
The High school moved to their new quarters Monday morning. The rooms occupied are three in number and consist of a recitation room, office, and school room proper. The pupils are much pleased with their new abode.
The Seniors are seated in a room by themselves, and put upon their honor in regard to deportment, and are consequently envied by the other classes.
Horace Vaughn, the star and beacon light of the Senior class, informs us that he will assume the vocation of a poet after he is through this year of school. We wish the gentleman success, and prophesy from the glimpses of his genius that we have had, that he will in the future stand as high in literature as Oscar Wilde does today.
The pupils find it very difficult to concentrate their minds on their studies on account of the noise on the streets; but as the novelty wears off, it will cease to be a hindrance to study.
A literary society was organized last Friday evening, with Howard Maxwell as chairman and Miss Everett, secretary. We hope that all will help to keep up the interest by coming and performing. None but pupils are to be admitted.
For the first few days some of our young ladies were much annoyed by the very persistent staring of some dudes across the way. They took their stand at the hotel opposite the windows and were obliged to aid their weak vision by opera glasses, etc. But we trust they have discovered by this time that school girls are not so susceptible as is generally thought, and they also have something else to occupy their minds than flirtations with weak-eyed dudes.
One hundred and twenty-one dollars ($121) is the exact sum procured by the high school girls for purchasing a piano. The instrument has been ordered and will arrive in a few days.
There has been a good deal of jealousy among the classes for the past few months. For instance, the seniors think they are of a little more importance than the other classes, and have a special clique of their own and admit neither middle year nor juniors to their charmed circle. This ought not so to be and after Prof. Weir’s talk on this special subject, we think a better feeling will prevail. “LUDO”
Arkansas City Republican, November 21, 1885.
The high school opened in rooms in the Commercial Block Monday morning. Three rooms are used. They have been fitted up very commodiously. Prof. Weir and Miss Belle Everett are the teachers. The new teachers lately engaged are Miss Marshal, of Manhattan; and Miss Z. Buckholder, of this city. The former is principal of the East School building and the latter teaches the 4th and 5th grades. There is an enrollment of 815 pupils in the school.
Arkansas City Republican, November 28, 1885.
H. S. FRINK, CUSTOM TAILOR.
Suits Cut and Made to Order in the Latest Style at reasonable prices.
CLEANING, REPAIRING, and PRESSING Done in the Neatest Manner.
All work Warranted and finished when Promised.
Call at “Brunswick’s Arcade Clothing House,” Commercial Block.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 2, 1885.
The young men who have undertaken the task of forming a Y. M. C. A. in this city, are quietly at work and express themselves confident of success. The active members number about eighteen, and meet every Sabbath in the high school rooms, in the Commercial block. They propose shortly to solicit subscriptions to hire and furnish rooms of their own.
Arkansas City Republican, December 5, 1885.
The young men composing the Y. M. C. A., have rented room No. 4, in the Commercial block, and will hold services there every Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock. All are cordially invited to attend.
Arkansas City Republican, December 5, 1885.
Wm. Brown and family no longer reside in the Commercial block. He has rented a residence. Miss Flora Patterson now occupies the rooms vacated by him.
Arkansas City Republican, December 5, 1885.
W. S. Prettyman, of Philadelphia, and W. McFarland, of Ohio, are the new artists who have recently located in our city. They have their art gallery in room No. 20 in the Commercial Block. Yesterday morning we paid the gentlemen a visit and were considerably surprised at the elegant style in which they have furnished their suite of rooms. The reception room is handsomely carpeted and is furnished with a beautiful parlor set. On the walls hang designs of their workmanship, which, in our judgment, we unhesitatingly pronounce first-class. The paraphernalia for pictures is all bran new, as are the backgrounds, accessories, etc. They are purchased in Chicago, and shipped directly here. All of their goods, scenery, etc., have not yet arrived. In a talk with the gentlemen, they informed us that they would make a specialty of copying and enlarging pictures. They also take pictures any size you may desire. From a photo card they can go to a picture 17 x 20 inches. This is a new departure in the art of picture making in Arkansas City. We would advise everyone to call on Prettyman & McFarland if they are desirous of anything in this line.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 9, 1885.
PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY
Room No. 30 Commercial Block.
The undersigned are prepared to do all kinds of work, from a Card to a LIFE SIZE PICTURE.
We also make a specialty of Copying and Enlarging. By the new process we are able to take pictures on cloudy days. All work guaranteed. An elegant line of Picture Frames always kept in stock. PRETTYMAN & McFARLAND.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 12, 1885.
PHOTOGRAPH GALLERY. Room No. 30, Commercial Block.
The undersigned are prepared to do all kinds of work, from a card to a LIFE SIZE PICTURE. We also make a specialty of Copying and Enlarging. By the new process we are able to take pictures on cloudy days. All work guaranteed. An elegant line of Picture frames always kept in stock. PRETTYMAN & McFARLAND.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
AD. HOLIDAY GOODS. Just Received Two car loads of choice Holiday Goods especially adapted for Christmas Presents. Rocking Chairs of all sizes, Easy Chairs, Children’s Chairs, and a full line of Hobby Horses. Sofas and Lounges to suit the Purses of all. P. PEARSON. Commercial Block - Opposite Post Office.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 19, 1885.
Shepard & Acker, Physicians and Surgeons.
Office Commercial Block, Room 2. Office open day and night.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 30, 1885.
The Y. M. C. A. will hold a public devotional exercise in their rooms in the Commercial block on next Sabbath afternoon at 3 p.m. Subject: “Prayer and Faith.” Everyone will please bring his Bible and Gospel Hymns.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 30, 1885.
Prettyman & McFarland wish to announce through our columns that they have adjusted their light, grown familiar with their new instruments, and adapted themselves to all the conditions of their gallery. They invite the public to inspect their cabinets, where work is displayed that can be excelled by no photographer artist in the state.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 2, 1886.
At present the high school of Arkansas City is held in rented rooms in the Commercial Block. There are four rooms divided for school purposes at a monthly rental of $43. In one school year this would amount to almost $400. Here is $400 spent annually when it could be put into a good building that would be a great benefit and an ornament to the city. Vote for the school bonds.
Arkansas City Republican, January 2, 1886.
The Y. M. C. A. will hold a public devotional exercise, in their rooms in the Commercial block, on next Sabbath afternoon, at 3 p.m. Subject: Prayer and Faith. Everyone will please bring his Bible and Gospel Hymns.
Arkansas City Republican, January 23, 1886.
At the regular Board meeting of the Y. M. C. A., the following resolution was adopted and ordered published.
Resolved, That we tender our thanks to the school board for the use of the schoolroom in the Commercial block, and we therefore tender the use of our room, No. 11, in the same building for their meetings, and also to the different ladies’ organizations in the city for a place of meeting.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 27, 1886.
SHALL WE VOTE THE BONDS.
Reasons Why Another School House Building Is Necessary.
Vote for the bonds because we have not school room sufficient to accommodate our children. But you say we don’t need more school room, and even claim that the rooms we have are not full. Well, my friend, here are the facts.
In the brick school building, also including the frames on the school lot, there is an enrollment of 481, making the average enrollment of 68 to the teacher, with an average daily attendance of 55 pupils to the teacher at this unfavorable season. The average seating capacity of these rooms is not exceeding 40 pupils. I leave you, reasonable friend, to draw your own conclusion.
In the stone building there is an enrollment of 345, making an average enrollment of 76 pupils to the teacher, with an average daily attendance of 58. In favorable weather no teacher has an average daily attendance of less than 48, while in the first primaries there is an average daily attendance of over 100.
These are our accommodations, and it is to be regretted that many of our little children have been enabled to attend but half day sessions. No intelligent citizen can read these facts and vote against the bonds.
While you are in a thoughtful mood, you will notice that nothing so far has been said in reference to our High School. This department has been compelled to seek quarters in the Commercial block, giving up its old quarters that rooms might be provided for those not so far advanced in the work. The high school enrollment is 65, with an average daily attendance of 54.
The entire enrollment of our public schools is 851, nearly 900 pupils, with an average daily attendance of 725 in favorable weather. There is no reason for the enrollment of our schools being less than 1,000 pupils, and the average daily attendance being anything short of 850, save the lack of school room. There are upon a small estimate 100 or 150 children, today, in the corporate limits of Arkansas City, who are not enjoying the school privileges because the teachers are over crowded as it is, and have not for this reason endeavored to bring them within the range of the advantages of the school. Can we as a people afford to have these little ones grow up ignorant? Shall we for another year say to the world that we are too stingy to furnish these little children with opportunities sacred to them?
Vote for the bonds because in this way you can give your children opportunities to become intelligent, to become useful members of society, and a benefit to the state.
Vote for the bonds for the reason that you prefer to be taxed to build school houses rather than to pay taxes to build poor houses, jails, and penitentiaries. You object to being taxed to increase my child’s resources to be self-sustaining in life. I object to being taxed to support your child while lounging in jail for some crime he has perpetrated upon the society of which he was unfitted to be a part.
Parents, vote for the school bonds and prepare your children to occupy honorable and lucrative positions which you were unable to fill for want of education.
Vote for the bonds and encourage the system of work which it is our good fortune to possess—schools unsurpassed in the state for accuracy of methods and thoroughness of work, schools of which we have every reason to be proud.
Laboring man, vote for the bonds and furnish employment for yourself, bread for your family, and education for your children.
You that have no children, vote for the bonds. It will be a good way to attract intelligent people to your midst. Assure them school facilities equal to those they leave behind, and not even your churches can serve as a greater inducement. Let every man vote for the bonds for the reason that he desires good society, intelligent people, good schools, and strong, healthful churches. H.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 31, 1886.
At a meeting of citizens of the first ward held in Commercial block, last evening, James Hill was re-nominated for the council, J. W. Ruby for school director, and W. D. Kreamer was endorsed the justice of the peace, and Austin Bailey for constable.
Arkansas City Republican, March 13, 1886.
W. A. Ritchie, the architect, opened up his office—room No. 1 of the Commercial block—Monday. From the drawings Mr. Ritchie exhibited to us, we can say Arkansas City will have several handsome blocks erected this season.
Excerpt...
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1886.
Our school editor on Friday visited the high school, in its temporary rooms in the Commercial Block. Mr. J. C. Bryan and Miss Elsie Obenchain are the teachers, Prof. Weir having charge of the class in Civil Government. The present attendance is 45 scholars, a number of the boys having been taken away lately to engage in summer work. The rooms are commodious, well lighted, and provided with modern furniture.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
W. A. Ritchie & Co., the architects, have permanently located in Arkansas City. As many of our readers are aware, their office is in the upstairs of the Commercial block. Their designs of buildings are very fine, and they are doing much toward beautifying our city with the planning of and the erection of handsome blocks. J. W. Ginder, an experienced architect, has charge of the business in this city. He is gentlemanly and courteous to one and all. He will be pleased to have you call and see him.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Dr. F. Young, who recently located in our city from Denison, Texas, has his office in the Commercial block.
Arkansas City Republican, July 3, 1886.
DR. F. YOUNG, Commercial Block. Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, July 17, 1886.
SHEPARD & ACKER, PHYSICIANS AND SURGEONS.
Office Commercial Block, Room 2. Office open day and night.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 25, 1886.
You need not go to Winfield or Wichita for a fashionable suit. Call on John Monsey, merchant tailor, who carries a full line of foreign and domestic goods. All work guaranteed. Room No. 3, Commercial block.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 25, 1886.
1870 ESTABLISHED 1886
PETER PEARSON,
Wholesale and Retail Dealer in F U R N I T U R E ! OF ALL GRADES AND QUALITIES. METALLIC, CLOTH, AND WOOD CASKETS ALWAYS IN STOCK. UNDERTAKING ATTENDED TO DAY OR NIGHT. EMBALMING IN ALL ITS BRANCHES A SPECIALTY. Commercial Block, Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 1, 1886.
John Monsey, the merchant tailor, Room No. 3, Commercial Block, has a fine line of patterns from which he is making some elegant suits.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 4, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
This afternoon a team belonging to C. M. Scott came dashing up Summit Street at break-neck speed. At halfway between Central Avenue and 5th Avenue, the runaway team got H. Stuart, the real estate agent, and his calico mare in front of them, and it was good amusement for the spectators to witness the latter’s efforts getting out of the way. At 5th Avenue he turned off and the runaway team went on up Summit Street. In front of the Commercial block, a farmer’s horse was struck by them, one of its legs being injured slightly. The runaways were caught and stopped near the Creswell block. Henry Green was driving Mr. Scott’s team and we are told the team got away from him when his attention was attracted elsewhere.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 11, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
This morning Judge Bryant under the new city ordinance fined John Smith and John Miles, real names unknown, $50 each for running a “joint” in the basements of the Creswell and Commercial blocks respectively.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 2, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
The railing on the Commercial Block was blown down during the storm of yesterday afternoon.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 6, 1886.
A business card in our columns announces a co-partnership formed between Dr. C. S. Acker and Dr. K. Tinker, late of Ohio. The latter is a young man, but experienced in his profession, and bringing the reputation of a successful practitioner. Dr. Acker, finding his practice beyond his physical endurance and his health suffering in consequence of his close application, readily availed himself of the opportunity presented by Dr. Tinker’s presence of relieving himself of a portion of his professional work, and hence the partnership was formed. Both gentlemen have our hearty wishes for success.
CARD. C. S. ACKER. K. TINKER, M. D.
DRS. ACKER & TINKER,
Room 2, COMMERCIAL BLOCK,
Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 16, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
This morning two jointists were arrested by Marshal Gray. They were carrying on business in the basements of the Cresswell and Commercial blocks. Each were fined $50 and costs. They liquidated. Their names were unknown to us.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 3, 1886.
Paints, colors, and paint brushes must be sold to make room for Hardware, Stoves, Tinware, etc. See prices. H. S. HEAP, Commercial Block.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 15, 1887. From Saturday’s Daily.
The Business Men’s Club have secured quarters in the commercial block to the room at present occupied by A. Monsey, the tailor. Mr. Monsey will remove his tailoring establishment to rooms over the post office next week, when the Business Men’s Club will fit up the rooms in comfortable style.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 29, 1887. From Tuesday’s Daily.
A merchant of this city relates to us that one night last week, just after he had closed his store doors, he started home. When he arrived in front of the billiard hall in the basement of the Commercial block, he heard the rustle of a dress, which caused him to look around. He raised his lantern, and there, crouching in the shadow of the building was the form of a woman; the face he recognized as one of the most respectable mothers in the city. Before either had time to speak, two boys, aged about 16 years, came up out of the billiard hall and started down the street. The woman, drawing her wraps close around her, started after them. In a few steps she had her hand on the arm of her son, and was entreating him to come home with her. He finally promised to do so, and the last seen of them by the merchant they were well on their way home.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 5, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
The rooms in the Commercial block for the use of the Business Men’s Club are finished and furnished elegantly. The floors have been handsomely carpeted, chairs for seating about 100 persons have been put in, tables for use of members, etc. We have no hesitancy in saying Arkansas City has the finest board of trade rooms in Kansas. The club will subscribe for the Kansas City Daily Times, Topeka Capital, Wichita Eagle, a Winfield daily, the DAILY REPUBLICAN, and other papers and keep them on file in their rooms. In this way the club will be kept well posted and Arkansas City will not be found asleep when there are any enterprises to be had.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 19, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
The regular monthly meeting of the Business Men’s Club occurred last evening in their rooms in the Commercial Block. Considerable business was transacted. The secretary and treasurer made their report, which in substance was: That organization had 102 members, initiation fees, due paid up; it was in good financial condition, having several hundred dollars on hand; the committees were all in good working order and taking steps for the advancement of the city. We wish to call the attention of our readers to the commodious quarters which the club has fitted up. Over $500 has been expended in its furnishing for the accommodation of members of the club, their friends, and visitors. Writing materials, newspapers, etc., are on the tables for the use of all who desire. Strangers visiting in the city are requested to call at the club rooms. They are the best fitted and furnished in the state.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 12, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Duer & Lofland, the new real estate agents, have opened up their office in Room 1, Commercial block. They are energetic and rustling businessmen and will be most happy to obtain a share of your patronage. Leave your real estate business with them and they will attend to it promptly. They have come to stay. Call on them.
[Abrupt Departure of Hasie & Bro.]
Winfield Courier, December 5, 1888.
The wholesale grocery firm of Hasie & Bro., of Arkansas City, which has been looked at as being one of the soundest business houses in the state, closed its doors yesterday. The liabilities of the defunct firm are estimated at $60,000. It is said that they have covered up their stock and have gotten away with the goods. The creditors, however, hope to regain the latter. The Hasie brothers have hitherto stood high with the people and their sudden collapse is a matter of great surprise.
