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Gibson Famlies
[Note: I quit after March 1886 in Courier. I added items that I found in later years to appropriate persons. MAW February 28, 2002.]
Sheridan Township 1880:
Gibson, H., 34; spouse, M., 28.
Sheridan Township 1882:
Hoover, 30; spouse, Mary, 29.
Silverdale Township 1879:
Gibson, John, age not given.
Tisdale Township 1874:
Gibson, S. H., 44. No spouse listed.
Tisdale Township 1880:
Gibson, Albert, 24.
Gibson, Henry, 50.
Walnut Township 1881:
Gibson, J. T., 52; spouse, L., 29.
Walnut Township 1882:
Gibson, Albert, 26. No spouse listed.
Winfield, City of, 1880:
Gibson, A. C., 30; spouse, Mary J., 28.
Gibson, M. C., 65; spouse, Mary J., 63. Also, Mattie Gibson, 25.
Ninnescah Township 1882:
Gibson, J. W., 24; spouse, Phoebe D., 23.
Arkansas City 1893:
Gibson, Frank, 22. Also, Nancy Gibson, 47 (mother?).
Gibson, Fred, 24; spouse, Ada, 26.
Gibson, James, 26. No spouse listed.
Gibson, J. N. L., 47; spouse, M. M., 37.
Gibson, Robt., 37; spouse, Jenny, 30.
Kansas 1875 Census Sheridan Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
H. Gibson 25 m w Indiana Indiana
M. C. Gibson 23 f w Illinois Missouri
A. L. Gibson 7 m w Kansas
Kansas 1875 Census, Tisdale Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
S. H. Gibson 45 m w Pennsylvania Iowa
E. A. Gibson 19 m w Iowa Iowa
M. V. Gibson 16 f w Iowa Iowa
J. W. Gibson 13 m w Iowa Iowa
Kansas 1875 Census, Winfield Township, Cowley County, March 1, 1875.
Name age sex color Place/birth Where from
Hannah Gibson 42 f w Pennsylvania Iowa
Winfield Directory 1885:
Gibson E F, laborer, res 914 e 8th
Gibson M C, res 1407 Millington
Gibson Miss Mattie, res 1407 Millington
Gibson Miss Mary, res 1407 Millington
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
Mrs. A. H. Gibson...
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1874.
Mrs. E. F. Kennedy has purchased an interest in the millinery and dress-making establishment of Mrs. A. H. Gibson. They have had their room refitted and repainted and now have as fine a store as can be found anywhere. They already have a fine stock of goods to which they are making additions daily.
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1874.
Mrs. Gibson & Co. have erected an awning in front of their millinery store. It improves the appearance of their room very much.
Winfield Courier, September 4, 1874.
Mrs. Gibson & Co., of the Ladies Bazar, have just received a large stock of hats, ties, gloves, and gauntlets, which they are prepared to sell at prices suited to the times.
Winfield Courier, May 27, 1875.
Mrs. Gibson and Kennedy, of the Ladies Bazar, would desire to call the attention of the Ladies to their large and well selected stock of New Goods just received, including hats of all kinds, flowers, ribbons, ties, gloves, hosiery, corsets, fans, parasols, shoulder and hat scarfs, twills, and Hamburg Edges. Laces of all varieties sold at lowest possible prices. Dress making a specialty, also bridal outfits. Please call and examine.
Winfield Courier, August 12, 1875.
The copartnership heretofore existing, under the firm name of A. H. Gibson & Co., has been dissolved. I have opened a lady’s furnishing store three doors south of Read’s Bank, where I will keep constantly on hand a full supply of lady’s wear of every description. Thankful to my many friends for their past favor, I hope to continue their patronage.
MRS. E. F. KENNEDY.
Winfield Courier, November 11, 1875.
Mrs. A. H. Gibson will sell goods for the next 30 days at cost. Come one, come all.
Winfield Courier, May 31, 1877.
Mrs. A. H. Gibson, who has been living in Wichita for about a year, returned to our city last week with the intention of again engaging in the millinery business.
Stephen H. Gibson...
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1874.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the September term of the District Court, Cowley County, Kansas, to be held on and from the 28th, inst., and have been placed upon the Trial Docket in the following order.
CIVIL DOCKET. SIXTH DAY.
Stephen H. Gibson vs. John Tullis.
Mary V. Gibson marries L. S. Gaines in Indian Territory...
Arkansas City Traveler, May 23, 1877.
MARRIED. Thursday, May 10th, 1877, at the residence of Mr. A. M. Smythia, in the Indian Territory, Mr. L. S. Ganes to Miss Mary V. Gibson, by the Rev. J. Hopkins.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 23, 1877.
MARRIED HIS COUSIN.
Last week Levi Ganes visited this place with Miss Gibson for the purpose of being married in the Indian Territory, as they had no license, and the young lady was his cousin. They found a minister in Bolton Township and repaired to the Territory and were pronounced one. Since their return, the father of the bride has entered a suit of criminal action against Levi, for marrying a relative contrary to the laws of this State, and the young man stands a fair chance to learn a trade behind a grated door for the next three years.
Hoover Gibson of Sheridan Township...
Winfield Courier, August 16, 1877.
Criminal and civil suits are brought against Hoover Gibson, of Sheridan Township, for being the prospective sire of offspring outside of his own family. A girl of sixteen makes the complaint.
Winfield Courier, October 10, 1878.
A Distressing Accident.
Hoover Gibson, of Sheridan, with his wife and nephew, Wm. Sheets, of Neosho County, aged nineteen years, on Tuesday evening went to the Grouse for grapes. They stopped at the Bill Oates place and Hoover Gibson went to a spring to drink, leaving his wife and Sheets in the wagon. In order to show his aunt how he saw a man kill himself, the young man went through the motions with a gun, and while it was aimed at his neck, he accidentally hit the hammer with his foot, which discharged the gun and killed him on the spot. As we go to press the coroner starts to hold an inquest. We get the above particulars of Mr. H. H. Higbee.
Hoover Gibson of Grouse Creek...
[REPORT FROM “TRAVELER” AT GROUSE CREEK.]
Winfield Courier, May 22, 1879.
GROUSE CREEK, May 19, 1879.
I now pass to the farm of Dempsey Elliott, Mat Jackson having gone to Indiana for something, and Mr. Harris has quit making sorghum. Mr. Elliott has quit merchandising at Dexter, and is now in the stock business. He is absent at present, gone to St. Louis with a large herd of hogs. I ascend the bluff opposite this place, and here a beautiful sight opens up to my gaze. To the west and at a little distance is the large herd of cattle belonging to Mr. Elliott.
A little to the south and west is the neighborhood herd under the superintendence of Hoover Gibson; to the north and west the herd of C. Mays, and to the northeast the herd of Mr. Hankins, and I am informed that a few miles to the south is the large herd of E. Shriver and Sons.
Thomas Gibson...
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1879.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the May, A. D. 1879, term of the District Court of Cowley County, beginning on the first Monday in May, and have been placed on the Trial Docket in the following order.
FIRST DAY - CRIMINAL DOCKET.
State vs. Thomas Gibson.
TUESDAY.
State vs. Gibson, rape and incest. Trial commenced, and the testimony showed that the victim’s name was Manda instead of Amanda, as stated in the information. The court refused leave to amend the information at that stage, and the county attorney entered a “nolle,” the prisoner was held to await his action, a new information was made, and a new preliminary examination before Justice Buckman, and he was committed again for trial at this term of the court.
Winfield Courier, August 28, 1879.
The District Court convened Monday afternoon, of last week, and the following cases were disposed of upon call of the Docket.
The case of the State of Kansas vs. Thos. Gibson, charged with the crime of incest, was taken up on Tuesday morning. As we go to press, the jury is still out.
[Note: The jury is still out. There was no follow-up that I could find. MAW]
Mr. Gibson residing in south part of Winfield. This might refer to the following items about “Mr. Gibson,” who might have been “M. C. Gibson.”...
Winfield Courier, June 10, 1880.
The building boom in and about Winfield continues. On Main street about a dozen good business houses are in process of erection or under contract to be built soon. Quite a number of our citizens are building neat and substantial residences. In addition to those heretofore mentioned by us, we note S. M. Jarvis and John Moffit in the east part of the city, John W. Curns in the west, and Mr. Gibson in the south. Mr. Rigby’s new house progresses rapidly, and Mr. Lemmon is having the material delivered for his house east of the city in Walnut township. Almost every day a new foundation for a house is laid in or about the city. In our opinion, more money will be put into new buildings in Winfield this than any previous year.
Winfield Courier, September 22, 1881.
Mr. Gibson has established a broom factory on south Main street.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
Gibson & Co., presented us with a broom last week.
Bradt & Gibson...
Cowley County Courant, November 24, 1881.
BRADT & GIBSON - DEALERS IN ALL GRADES OF NEW- FURNITURE!
SOUTH MAIN STREET, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
Winfield Courier, December 15, 1881.
FARMERS, READ. Owing to the dissatisfaction existing in regard to weights, we take this means of soliciting your business for our scales. We keep them always accurately balanced and give none but correct weights. Having no connection with either buyers or sellers of produce, we have no other desire than to do justice and make a dime on each load weighed. BRADT & GIBSON, Champion Furniture House.
Winfield Courier, December 15, 1881.
Messrs. G. B. Shaw & Co. have opened a coal office on South Main Street at the Champion Furniture House. They keep both wood and coal, and deliver twenty hundred for a ton.
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
The sheriff has attached the store of Bradt & Gibson for the indebtedness of the firm and it is now closed.
[FAIR.]
Winfield Courier, October 2, 1884.
CLASS G.—GRAINS, GRASSES, AND VEGETABLES.
Bundle broom-corn, D. A. Smith, 1st; M. C. Gibson, 2nd.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Best dozen Brooms, Gibson & Co.
Gibson & Co., Winfield...
OUR FAMILY CALLERS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 4, 1886.
THE COURIER would express its thanks to the following named reliable and honored citizens of grand old Cowley for recent favors: T. R. Carson, Wilmot; Jno. A. Smith, Silverdale; A. W. Beswick, Kellogg; W. B. Norman, Udall; D. S. Sherrard, Pleasant Valley; G. A. Lindsey, Winfield; P. Belveal, Walnut; W. J. Orr, Fairview; J. W. Evans, Dexter; Henry Ireton, Seeley; John H. Tharp, Kellogg; George Erickson, Cedarvale; H. Falkingham, Milton Drew, Pleasant Valley; Z. Oldham, Vernon; N. B. Robinson, Walnut; J. P. Henderson, Walnut; J. B. Daniels, Dexter; J. M. Barrick, Akron; N. B. Hammond, Tannehill; J. O. Barricklow, Winfield; Gibson & Co., Winfield; Zeb Foster, Udall; D. M. Adams, Winfield; H. C. Castor, Liberty; J. A. Simpson, Winfield; Joseph Anglemyer, Winfield; Sampson Johnson, Pleasant Valley; R. B. Waite, Winfield; S. W. Pennington, Vernon; Sid Cure, Walnut; J. M. Harcourt, Rock; W. H. Waite, Udall; W. H. White, Ninnescah; Charles A. Peabody, Dexter; R. B. Hanna, Burden; N. T. Snyder, Arkansas City; W. H. Moore, Winfield; W. R. Lorton, Wilmot; R. S. White, Winfield; G. C. Cleveland, Cedarvale; Nelson Utley, Winfield; J. O. Barricklow, Winfield; S. C. Smith, Winfield; W. H. Dawson, Winfield; T. W. Maddux, Winfield; J. R. Taylor, Winfield; J. L. Huey, Arkansas City; L. D. York, Maple City; Greer Fleming, Winfield; Jas. Hollister, Seeley; T. M. Graham, Winfield; Thos. Larimer, Winfield; W. M. Stout, Udall; William Carter, Kellogg; H. D. Syron, Winfield; J. H. Hall, Tisdale; W. H. Fry, Dexter; V. F. Ogburn, Glen Grouse; M. A. Holler, Rock; W. H. Grow, Rock; J. M. Mark, Liberty; E. W. Woolsey, Burden; E. H. Gilbert, Winfield; W. H. Bolton, Dexter; J. F. Stodder, Burden; Geo. W. Moore, Udall; W. B. Lewis, Dexter; J. C. Snyder, Constant; Geo. R. Stevens, Wilmore; Mrs. B. McKee, Dexter; S. S. Condit, Winfield; R. W. Flener, Silverdale; Philo Winter, Tisdale; Dennis Shaw, Arkansas City; W. H. Campbell, Grand Summit; John Shoup, Udall; J. S. Herron, Tannehill; J. W. Stansbury, Arkansas City; Jas. Greenshields, Tisdale.
MRS. M. C. GIBSON. WINFIELD.
OFFICIAL LIST OF PREMIUMS
Awarded at the Cowley County Fair,
September 21st to 25th, 1885.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 1, 1885.
The list given below shows money premiums only. Checks for same will be ready after October 1st, and must be claimed by November 1st, 1885, or forfeit to the association. (See rule 12.) Diplomas for exhibits having no competition may be had by calling at the Secretary’s office.
Class L.—HOME MADE GOODS.
Calico quilt. Mrs. M. C. Gibson 1st, Mrs. W. Gilbert 2nd.
MATTIE GIBSON, SCHOOL TEACHER, WINFIELD.
[Note: Mattie and Mary Gibson were daughters of M. C. Gibson.]
Winfield Courier, June 17, 1880.
The following teachers have been hired for the next term of the public schools: E. T. Trimble, principal; Mary A. Bryant, Allie Klingman, Alice Aldrich, Miss Belle Fitzgerald, Mattie Gibson, Jeanie Melville, Miss C. S. Cook, assistants. The salary of the principal was fixed at $90 per month, and that of the assistants at $40 per month. The grade of the teachers was left at the discretion of the principal, with the concurrence of the board.
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
Teachers Directory: 1881-82. WINFIELD. MONTHLY SALARY.
Prof. E. T. Trimble, city schools: $90.00
Mattie Gibson, city schools: $40.00
Winfield Courier, May 18, 1882.
The Board of Education met last week and selected as teachers for the coming term the following persons: Misses Bryant, Gibson, Hamill, Klingman, Rose Rounds, Ella Kelly, and Mrs. Caton and Mrs. Trimble. There were several applications which were not acted upon but left over to the next meeting. The board will meet again next Monday.
Mattie and Mary Gibson...
Winfield Courier, June 8, 1882.
The Presbyterian Church is in need of some interior repairing and the ladies have decided to have it papered as well. To gain the money for such purpose, they held a Paper Festival at the Opera House on Tuesday evening, which was a decided success. The hall was beautifully decorated and the tables were temptingly arrayed. A number of young ladies were dressed in becoming costumes of paper. At the paper booth Mrs. Bahntge, a charming Rosebud in red and green tissue presided, assisted by Miss Amanda Scothorn representing a glowing Poppy, Miss Lizzie Wallis, a blushing sweet Carnation, Miss Jennie Hane, “The Queen of Flowers,” the Rose, and Miss Jessie Millington a gorgeous Sunflower, attracted much attention. They sold all manner of pretty paper trifles, fans, parasols, and baskets.
Miss Ida Johnson, Nina Anderson, and Anna Hyde sold button hole bouquets, and other flowers, and wore also beautiful paper dresses and were a success.
The Tea booth probably attracted more attention than anything else. Each person who purchased a cup of tea was presented with the cup and saucer containing it, but the attraction was the ladies who attended and poured the tea. They were Mrs. Brown, Mrs. Robinson, Mrs. Shrieves, and Mrs. Spotswood.
Miss Margie Wallis and Chas. Bahntge made lots of fun selling soap bubbles at five cents a blow.
A bevy of bright young ladies, in fancy caps and aprons, attended at the fancy tables, and sold all manner of pretty things made by the ladies of the Ladies Aid Society. They were: Misses Mary Shivers, Mate and Belle Linn, Mattie and Mary Gibson, Emma Howland, and Ella Johnson.
“Rebecca at the well,” was successfully carried out by Mrs. Buckman, who sold gallons of choice lemonade.
Ice cream and cake were sold by the quantity and, although not a new feature, was none the less a profitable one. Mrs. Doane, Mrs. Kretsinger, Mrs. Shearer, Mrs. Allen, and Mrs. VanDoren attended at one table while Mrs. Green, Mrs. Caton, Mrs. Manser, Mrs. Schofield, and Mrs. Cochran attended at the other.
The gross receipts of the evening were $130. The ladies also had a dinner at the Opera House Wednesday noon, but we have not been able to learn what success attended it.
Miss Gibson. [Hard to tell which one this refers to.]...
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1882.
Drs. T. T. Davis and Wells removed a large cancer from the breast of Miss Gibson last Wednesday. The operation was a very difficult one, but was carefully and successfully performed.
Mattie Gibson...
Winfield Courier, June 7, 1883.
Miss Mattie Gibson left for Ohio last week to spend the summer.
Winfield Courier, June 7, 1883.
Eight of the teachers of the public schools have been appointed, as follows: Misses Klingman, Dickey, Bryant, Hamill, Crippen, Gibson, Aldrich, Barnes, and Mrs. Caton. There still remain four places to be filled.
Winfield Courier, August 2, 1883.
Misses Lena Bartlett and Mamie Garlick were elected by the school board to fill the vacancies in the list of city teachers for this winter caused by the resignation of Mrs. Caton and Miss Mattie Gibson. Miss Garlick has been teaching in the city schools of Augusta for some time past.
Mattie Gibson returned to teaching in Winfield...
[KANSAS DAY.]
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1884.
Kansas Day.
The twenty-third birthday of our beloved state was celebrated with appropriate exercises in all the departments of our schools on Tuesday, January 29th. A program was prepared by Prof. Gridley, the Supt. of schools, and given to the pupils of the various departments who, with the assistance of their teachers, succeeded in making the exercises very pleasant and profitable. Numerous interesting facts were repeated by the pupils relative to the early history, resources, geography, and miscellaneous topics referring to Kansas. All of the school rooms were more or less decorated. In the High School was a beautiful drawing of a bird in whose bill was a scroll on which was written the motto of our nation. The motto of our state was also neatly printed on an imitation of the Great Seal of our State.
In Miss Williams’ room a beautiful motto, “Kansas is our home,” adorned the wall together with pictures and evergreens.
Miss Dickie’s room was beautifully decorated with a large flag upon which was printed in bold characters the significant word, “Prohibition.” The motto, “Kansas the Key to Freedom,” was on the south wall of the room. Suspended from the wall was a large horseshoe attached to which were two pipes, which were to signify that peace reigns.
In Miss Barnes’ room very extensive preparations had been made. The following motto, “We Celebrate the 23rd Birthday of Kansas,” was on the west wall. A table covered with beautiful plants and flowers added much to the cheerfulness of the room. There were more than fifty flags upon the walls in this room.
The pupils of Mrs. Buford’s department did themselves credit by the decorations which they made. Flags and mottoes were neatly displayed.
In Miss Klingman’s room a neat motto of evergreen, “Kansas,” was on the wall together with flags and pictures.
Pictures, flags, and evergreens were made to make Miss Gibson’s room attractive.
The pupils in all the departments took an unusual interest in all the exercises of the hour, and it is to be hoped that all present received such an inspiration that shall result in making more patriotic citizens than they otherwise would have been. Many of our citizens were present and witnessed the exercises. Altogether we think the hour was profitably spent and will result in making such impressions as shall be of lasting good.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1884.
Winfield Public Schools.
The city schools will open Sept. 29th, under the superintendency of A. Gridley, Jr., with the following corps of teachers.
Miss Cora E. Reynolds, High School.
Mr. W. C. Barnes, (A) Grammar room.
Miss Lois Williams (B) Grammar room.
Miss Allie Dickle, 2nd Intermediate (east ward).
Miss Sadie Davis, 1st Intermediate (east ward).
Miss Retta Gridley, 2nd Primary (east ward).
Mrs. Leavitt, 2nd Primary (east ward).
Miss Jessie Stretch, 1st Primary (east ward).
Miss Fannie Stretch, 2nd Intermediate (west ward).
Miss Mattie Gibson, 1st Intermediate (west ward).
Miss Mary Hamill, 2nd Primary (west ward).
Miss Mary Bryant, 1st Primary (west ward).
It is desired by the Superintendent that all pupils who intend to enter school and do not know to which room they belong, should meet him in the High School building on Saturday, Sept. 27th, at one o’clock p.m., that they may be assigned to the proper grades.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 1, 1885.
A. H. Limerick and wife, Misses Cora Reynolds, Lois Williams, Fannie Stretch, Mattie Gibson, Mary Hamill, Mary Bryant, Flo Campbell, Kate Rodgers, Jessie Stretch, Allie Dickle, Sada Davis, Retta Gridley, Davenport, Mrs. C. M. Leavitt, Mr. C. W. Barnes, and A. Gridley and wife, prominent teachers of Winfield, were in the city last Wednesday for the purpose of visiting our excellent schools. Unfortunately, our schools had dismissed in order to allow our teachers to attend a meeting at El Dorado. Failing in this, they visited the Chilocco schools.
CITY TEACHERS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
The school board has employed the full corps of city teachers, excepting those for the new Central school building, which will not be finished before September 18th, as follows: A. Gridley, Principal, $125 per month; Prof. W. N. Rice, High School, $60; Miss Louise S. Gregg, $50; Miss Lois Williams, $45; Miss Sada Davis, $45; Miss Maude M. Pearson, $40; Miss Iva Crane, $40; Miss Lucretia Davis, $40; Miss Mary Berkey, $40; Miss Alice E. Dickie, $50; Miss Mattie Gibson, $45; Miss Mary E. Hamill, $45; Miss Mary Bryant, $50; Miss Florence Campbell, $50; Miss Clara Davenport, $40; Miss Jessie Stretch, $50; Miss Fannie Stretch, $45.
Mattie and Mary Gibson...
TWENTY YEARS WEDDED.
The China Wedding of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Shearer.
An Unique Occasion.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 1, 1885.
The pleasant home of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Shearer, 917 Mansfield street, was the scene of a most happy gathering Monday evening. The occasion was the celebration of the 20th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Shearer. Though the rain interfered with the attendance of a number, by nine o’clock over eighty were present, in their happiest mood. Soon after nine o’clock the “bride and groom” were presented and re-united in the bonds whose sweet and bitter they had thoroughly experienced. Rev. J. H. Reider re-tied the knot in a novel and jolly ceremony, the groom consenting to all the compulsory vicissitudes of a “hen-pecked” husband, and she to clothe, feed, protect, scold (in foreign language) until death. After the ceremony and hearty congratulations, a collation of choicest delicacies was served in profusion and most thoroughly enjoyed. The presents were handsome and valuable, the most prominent being an exquisitely painted china dinner set. It embraced a hundred and twenty-five pieces—the handsomest thing obtainable in china ware. It was a token from the following persons: Rev. and Mrs. J. H. Reider, Rev. and Mrs. B. Kelly, Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Wood, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Soward, Dr. and Mrs. F. M. Pickens, Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Gilbert, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Dalton, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Bliss, Mrs. R. B. Waite and Mrs. Hartwell, Mrs. E. M. Albright and family, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Silliman, Col. and Mrs. Wm. Whiting, Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Nelson, Prof. and Mrs. I. N. Inskeep, Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Burnett, Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Arment, Dr. and Mrs. H. L. Wells, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Whiting, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. Frank W. Finch, Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Thompson, Mr. and Mrs. D. Taylor and Miss Minnie, Mr. and Mrs. A. Herpich, Mr. and Mrs. L. Conrad, Mrs. A. Silliman and Miss Lola, Mrs. C. Strong and Miss Emma, Mrs. Dr. Bailey, Misses Fannie, Jessie, and Louie Stretch, Miss March, Misses Mattie and Mary Gibson, Nettie and Anna McCoy, Lydia Tyner, Maggie Herpich, Maude Kelly, Ida Johnston, and Maude Pickens, Mr. and Mrs. C. Collins, and Miss Lena Walrath. Among the other presents were: Fruit holder and saucer, by Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Burgauer; individual pepper and salt holders, Miss Burgauer; cup and saucer, Wm. Statton; fruit dish, Dr. and Mrs. C. Perry and Mrs. Judd; China Plaque, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Balyeat; soup bowl, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Newton; pickle dish, Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Harrod; fruit plate, Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Lynn; fruit plate, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Johnston; fruit plate, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. R. Bates; fruit plate, Geo. D. Headrick; fruit plate, John Roberts and Mrs. Reed; fruit plate, Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Randall; cut glass fruit and pickle dish, tooth-pick holder and finger bowl, Mesdames G. H. Allen, D. L. Kretsinger, A. H. Doane, C. S. Van Doren, and John Tomlin; plate, bowl and pitcher, Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Bullene; water pitcher, Mr. M. Hahn; cake stand, Kate Shearer; $20 gold piece, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Shearer of Geneseo, Illinois. A good majority of the donors were present, and under the agreeable hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. Shearer, nicely assisted by their daughter, all passed the evening most enjoyably, departing at a late hour, wishing that the bride and groom might have many more such happy anniversaries, clear down to the one of gold, with its silvery locks and ripened years.
Mattie Gibson...
CITY SCHOOLS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 4, 1886.
Weekly report of tardiness for week ending Jan. 29, 1886.
THIRD WARD.
2nd Intermediate. Teacher: Lillie Dickie. Tardiness: 12
1st Intermediate. Teacher: Mattie Gibson. Tardiness: 6
2nd Primary. Teacher: Mary Hamill. Tardiness: 15
1st Primary. Teacher: Mary Bryant. Tardiness: 8
It will be observed from the above that in the central ward the fewest cases of tardiness were found in Miss Fannie Stretch’s room, while the largest per cent of attendance was in Miss Pearson’s department. In the second ward Miss Campbell’s department has not a single case of tardiness, while Miss Davenport’s follows closely with only one case and the highest per cent of attendance. In the third ward Miss Gibson’s room was free from cases of tardiness and also had the highest per cent of attendance. It is very important that the patrons assist the part of the pupils. There will be a change in the ringing of the school bell beginning with tomorrow. The second ringing of the bell will begin at 10 minutes before nine and continue for three minutes when it will toll until nine o’clock. In the afternoon the first ringing of the bell will be from one o’clock till five minutes after. The second ringing of the bell will begin at twenty minutes past one and continue for ten minutes as in the morning.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 18, 1886.
Weekly report of tardiness for week ending Feb. 12, 1886.
Department/Teacher/No. Tardinesses.
Third Ward.
2nd Intermediate, Allie Dickie, 4.
1st Intermediate, Mattie Gibson, 1.
2nd Primary, Mary Hamill, 5.
1st Primary, Mary Bryant, 7.
In the Central Ward the 2nd Intermediate, taught by Miss Sadie Davis, had but one case of tardiness during the week ending February 12th. The same is true of the same department in the Second Ward, taught by Miss Campbell, and in Miss Gibson’s room in the Third Ward. The above are the banner rooms for last week. Miss Belle Bertram’s room had the highest per cent of attendance—there not being a case of absence during the week.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 25, 1886.
Weekly report of tardiness for week ending January 29, 1886.
Department/Teacher/Number Tardinesses.
Third Ward.
2nd Intermediate: Allie Dickie, 4.
1st Intermediate: Mattie Gibson, 7.
2nd Primary: Mary Hamill, 19.
1st Primary: Mary Bryant, 3.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
Weekly report of tardiness for week ending March 19, 1886.
Department/Teacher./No. Tardinesses.
Third Ward.
2nd Intermediate, Allie Dickie, 2
1st Intermediate, Mattie Gibson, 1
2nd Primary, Mrs. Flo Williams, 2
1st Primary, Mary Bryant, 4
From the above will be observed that in the Central Ward Miss Lois Williams’ department has the best record closely followed by Miss Berkey’s room with only one case of tardiness. In the Second and Third wards, Miss Campbell and Miss Gibson make the best showing. Now that the mornings are long, the patrons of our schools should see to it that their children are “on time.”
TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION.
The County Idea Shooters Meet For Target Drill.
Full Report of the Meeting.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
The thirteenth monthly session of the Teachers’ Association met in the Central school building Saturday with an attendance of sixty. The first topic, “How to question?” was opened by Prof. J. A. Wood with a first-class address, showing the importance of correct questioning and giving examples of the opposite kind. He stated that a teacher should know his subject, be a close observer of human nature, and know the objects of questioning: which were to test the pupils’ knowledge, to start them to thinking, and to instruct, always being careful to proceed from the known to the unknown. Questions must be short, clear, and of a form that will bring out a full answer. A correct question will use few words and will elicit many words from the answering pupil. Prof. Rice asked how to study human nature, and Prof. Wood replied that there were three ways: to “know thyself,” to study mental science, and to study the pupils. “What is the new education?” was fully answered by Prof. Weir, of Arkansas City, with a paper, rich in historical facts and tracing the history of education and comparing the “old” with the “new” to the great detriment of the former. The new education teaches a child to know itself and its neighbors, and fits it for society by educating all its faculties equally. The new system requires of the teacher acquaintance with the children and in immense store of learning. Teachers are born and not made by expensive experiment or costly material. Under the old dispensation the child was forced to fit the mold; under the new, the garment is cut to suit the material in hand. Prof. Rice said that we teach too much and instruct too little. Prof. Gridley read a paper on “how to induce pupils to think,” showing that in order to accomplish this, all conditions must be favorable. The temperature of the room should be something above freezing and the health of the pupils should be good. Exercise is the key-note and Prof. Gridley suggested several examples. A model class of a dozen bright little boys and girls about eight years old, was called in and were taken through the intricacies of a lesson in fractions by their instructor, Miss Fannie Stretch, which not only showed the capability of the pupils and efficiency of the teacher, but was highly interesting and beneficial to the assembled teachers.
“Little things in the school room,” was prepared by Miss Gibson, showing that some little things were of large dimensions and should be carefully watched. Miss Young held that cleanliness should be enforced, and care exercised in regard to etiquette, such as wearing hat in house, picking up articles dropped by girls, etc. The sharpening of pencils, cleaning of slates, and arrangements of books should also be noticed.
Considerable interest was manifested about the topic, “Author Study.” Miss Flo Campbell opened the discussion stating that it is by law unprovided for and advising teachers to introduce it, sprinkling it all the way through. Various suggestions as to its introduction were made by Messrs. Limerick, McClelland, Rice, and Holland. “Retrospective view of the work of the Association for the past year, and plans for the next year,” was called; and W. H. Lucas made quite a humorous address, showing some of the faults of the past year, and making good suggestions for the future.
This was the last, best attended, and most interesting meeting of the year. One peculiar phase of these meetings is the cheering, which is conspicuous by its absence. Several of the addresses and papers contained genuine humor interspersed with hints that would do credit to anyone; but no cheering and very little laughter was perceivable. One would believe that the scene of humor was left out of the faculties of the pedagogue, but nothing could be more erroneous. They appreciate humor, but do not see fit to make any demonstrations.
The officers for the coming year, as elected Saturday, are: W. N. Rice, president; W. H. Lucas, vice president; Miss Mattie Gibson, secretary; Miss Lizzie Wilson, treasurer.
Mattie Gibson...
Daily Calamity Howler, Tuesday, October 6, 1891.
Board of Education.
The Board of Education met last evening in regular session. Present—Fink, Albright, Cheek, Smith, Wood, Crawford, Pate, Sydal, and Supt. Spindler.
On motion the salary of Miss Gibson, principal of 5th ward school, was raised from $52.50 to $55.
John Gibson [unknown which one]...Excerpt from article.
[THE MANNY TRIAL.]
Winfield Courier, July 7, 1881.
JOHN GIBSON
swore that he had been at Manny’s brewery and had drank “ginger” there. Only one glass because he was afraid it would make him tight. Looked like beer; didn’t taste like beer; saw another party intoxicated.
JOHN W. AND W. P. GIBSON.
John W. Gibson from Virginia. Father living in Winfield. This does not agree with later accounts in which he is called “W. P. Gibson.”
Cowley County Courant, February 9, 1882.
Messrs. Bryan & Harris have just consummated the sale of the old Bartlow farm, in Ninnescah Township, which was owned by W. D. Crawford, to John W. Gibson; for $2.200. Mr. Gibson is from Virginia, and his father is living in this city. He is a solid farmer and businessman, and will be a good acquisition to Ninnescah Township.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
A Field Day.
Monday was a field day for local news. A horse ran away with a girl. Hilary Holtby was adjudged insane. Town full of notables. Lots of land buyers. Taylor farm in Vernon sold for $4,000, offered for $3,000 a year ago. Mrs. Dr. Black offered $2,000 for her residence and wouldn’t take it. Churches putting stone sidewalks around their buildings. Other matters of interest in regard to Sunday services. Return of Prof. Trimble from Topeka. W. R. McDonald bought Jochem’s residence. Bisbee traded his house for a farm. Hackney & McDonald sold Keffer farm for $2,000. John Easton started a new blacksmith shop. Bobbett, of Maple City, moved here and opened out a feed stable on East Ninth Avenue. The boys had a grand drunk on receipt of the news that a section of the liquor law was unconstitutional. Dr. Harrider of the Dunkard Mills in town looking up a lot on which to erect a large flour and feed store for the Dunkard Mills. Abe Steinberger returned from Howard. Bob Mitchell in town. J. W. Pugsley sold his residence to W. P. Gibson for $1,600. And there were various other matters of interest to readers.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
A Field Day.
Monday was a field day for local news. A horse ran away with a girl. Hilary Holtby was adjudged insane. Town full of notables. Lots of land buyers. Taylor farm in Vernon sold for $4,000, offered for $3,000 a year ago. Mrs. Dr. Black offered $2,000 for her residence and wouldn’t take it. Churches putting stone sidewalks around their buildings. Other matters of interest in regard to Sunday services. Return of Prof. Trimble from Topeka. W. R. McDonald bought Jochem’s residence. Bisbee traded his house for a farm. Hackney & McDonald sold Keffer farm for $2,000. John Easton started a new blacksmith shop. Bobbett, of Maple City, moved here and opened out a feed stable on East Ninth Avenue. The boys had a grand drunk on receipt of the news that a section of the liquor law was unconstitutional. Dr. Harrider of the Dunkard Mills in town looking up a lot on which to erect a large flour and feed store for the Dunkard Mills. Abe Steinberger returned from Howard. Bob Mitchell in town. J. W. Pugsley sold his residence to W. P. Gibson for $1,600. And there were various other matters of interest to readers.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
Wm. Taylor sold his farm in Vernon Township to W. P. Gibson for $4,000.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
Mr. Pugsley sold his city residence to W. P. Gibson for $1,000.
Cowley County Courant, February 23, 1882.
Mr. Gibson, from Virginia, who has purchased several farms in this county, has purchased the Pugsley property, two blocks south of G. S. Manser’s, for $1,600.
[NINNESCAH CORRESPONDENT: “LADY MADGE.”]
Winfield Courier, March 2, 1882. Front Page.
Mr. Gibson, the gentleman who lately bought Mr. Crawford’s farm, has planted a patch of early potatoes, but he has not been in Kansas long enough to learn that Kansas weather is like some of our friends, fair, but fickle.
[NINNESCAH CORRESPONDENT: “MINNIE MENTOR,” SEELEY.]
Winfield Courier, March 2, 1882.
Some few changes are taking place in the southwest part of this township. Mr. Gibson and family have moved on the farm purchased of Mr. W. D. Crawford. Mr. Crawford still lives on the same farm but will soon move on the one he has purchased, lying west of the one he sold. Said gentleman has gone east in search of blooded stock, expects to be gone about two weeks.
Note: First we had John W. Gibson; then we had W. P. Gibson; now we have “J. W. Gibson,” which agrees with the first account of the man from Virginia whose father lives in Winfield! What can I say! It appears that “J. W. Gibson” is correct!
Now it seems that the father might be “W. P. Gibson.”
[NINNESCAH CORRESPONDENT: “LADY MADGE.”]
Winfield Courier, March 23, 1882. Front Page.
BIRTH. Mr. J. W. Gibson is the happy father of a nine pound boy. He thinks more of Kansas than ever.
Grandpa Gibson was out from town to see his new namesake, and thinks him a fine boy.
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1883.
The following is a list of the jurors drawn to serve at the May term of court.
J. W. Gibson, Ninnescah.
Winfield Courier, August 2, 1883.
Mr. J. W. Gibson brought us in a bunch of German millet, Saturday, four feet and a half high, with heads five inches long. It is now on exhibition at this office and is a very fine sample.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
James H. Bullen and John W. Gibson, of Winfield, have formed a partnership and will open an extensive lumber yard in Kingman just as soon as the weather breaks up. They have secured the vacant lots opposite the Laclede hotel and have a new office already built and some lumber on the ground. Mr. Bullen has $200,000 worth of lumber in the pineries of Wisconsin, and a large yard at Winfield. The Winfield yard last year sold $90,200 worth of lumber. Mr. Gibson will remove here and have charge of the Kingman yard. Several car loads of lumber are now at Hutchinson, but they will hereafter ship to Cheney. Kingman is attracting businessmen from all parts of the country. Republican.
Arkansas City Republican, April 11, 1885.
District Court.
From the Daily Courier we glean the proceedings of the mill of justice.
B. W. Matlack vs. John W. Gibson—jury waived.
W. P. Gibson of Winfield...
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
Notes of the Convention.
To Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Gibson were assigned J. W. Remington of the Leavenworth Workingmans’ Friend, and two Misses Remington.
Winfield Courier, August 9, 1883.
Mr. Wm. P. Gibson sold his 160 acre farm in Vernon Township Monday to James M. Warner for $6,800. Land is going up lively.
Winfield Courier, May 22, 1884.
Mr. Wm. Conn, from Ohio, bought through Harris & Willson, last week, the W. P. Gibson eighty in Vernon Township for $3,500, and will become one of our permanent farmers.
Winfield Courier, June 12, 1884.
Interesting Items Gathered from our Neighboring Exchanges.
UDALL SENTINEL.
Enos P. Harland has sold his farm near Udall to Wm. P. Gibson. Consideration $2,000.
SOME WINFIELD PEOPLE.
[Article Pertains to Protection, Comanche County, Kansas.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 13, 1885.
Winfield men have been largely instrumental in building up the “wild west.” About half the western county towns have had some of our enterprising citizens connected with their founding. Their absence from here is only temporary, of course. The new world conquered, they always return. Speaking of the Protection, Comanche County, Town Company, the Echo says of Winfield men: “Prof. E. P. Hickok is president of the company and looks well to the interest and general welfare of the town. He takes special pride in and lends his influence to establish a progressive and moral community. He has had experience with newly settled counties in Kansas and well knows the true worth of a new country. The Prof. resides on his claim and rides back and forth night and morning on his thorough-bred horse. A. P. Johnson is vice-president. His residence at present is at Winfield, where he is engaged in the practice of law. It is to be hoped that he will see fit to reside here in the near future. Come out, Johnson, and Protection will boost you for Prosecuting Attorney after you prove up a claim and become one of our citizens. W. P. Gibson is treasurer and in his hands the cash of any enterprise would be safe, being a man of superior honor and financially responsible. Chas. W. Wright with the other officers compose the board of directors. Mr. Wright has filled responsible positions, is well educated, and has lots of good judgment to back it. When he decides a question, it is pretty apt to be a ‘right’ decision.”
Charley Wright will be recognized as the son of Dr. W. T. Wright, of this city, while Mr. Gibson is a Queen City denizen and owns property here.
KIOWA EXCURSION.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
In answer to many questions, and for the benefit of those that could not avail themselves of the opportunity of taking in the excursion of Kiowa, I will try and give a few outlines of the trip. On Tuesday morning, August 25th, we boarded the 10:40 train, hearing that the regular excursion train from Kansas City, which was 20 minutes behind the regular train, was full, we boarded and started for Kiowa, which is located in Barber County, and at the terminus of the K. C. & S. K. Railroad. At Kellogg several parties joined our company. Among them was our friend, W. P. Gibson, of Protection, Comanche County. When we told him we were going to Kiowa, his face was almost as long as a fence rail, and he felt sorry for Protection. At Oxford a number of her citizens joined us, and so on at every station we passed until we neither had sitting nor standing room on our train. We arrived at Kiowa at 3:30 p.m., and the other train 20 minutes later. The citizens of Kiowa met us in grand style at the railroad. I won’t say depot for they have none yet; but they were there with all the buggies, carriages, and hacks they had in town, together with the Wellington Band, which had gone over the day before. We unloaded right in the midst of the worst prairie that a great many of the excursionists has ever looked upon. We were now about half a mile from what they called New Kiowa. We started on the march, headed by the Band. We marched up through Main street, and there, let me tell you, we saw wonders to behold such as we never will forget. As they marched us into the town, they said they proposed to show us the production of their county, which they did to perfection. Across Main street they had erected an arch about forty feet high in the center. This was handsomely decorated from base to base with all the cereals of the soil, such as none but Kansas lands can produce—corn, wheat, millet, beans, cane, melons, cotton, pumpkins, etc. This they claim was the production of 1885, and the production of their county for 1884. They had on exhibition the bear, cayote, wild cat, deer, and numerous others too numerous to mention, and to go back as far as 1881, and to show to this grand excursion party—especially to those who had forgotten the production of these past years—they had on public exhibition, with doors wide open, seven saloons and gambling houses, selling whiskey and beer over the bar by the drink, as they did of olden times. I must confess that this seemed to be the most lively part of the exhibition. On top of the arch they had a stuffed beef hide. There it stood natural as life, 40 feet in the air. After passing through this arch, we filed right and were brought to a halt in front of the Hardwick House, a fine, large two-story hotel, fitted up for all contingencies, with a bar and billiard room on the first floor, with all the necessary conveniences about a first class hotel on the second floor. After some very fine music from the band, the excursion party started for the four corners of Kiowa. I want to tell you some of them saw the elephant before morning, but I am not going to tell you who they were. Ask J. J. Johnson and Sam Phenix about it. The first place I saw these two gentlemen in the morning was crawling out of a stockade that had been bedded with sand the night before for shipping Texas cattle. Of course, we did not know whether the people of Kiowa would give us a free lunch or anything of the kind, but it was suggested by some of the party that it was such a great cattle region that they would as much as have a roasted beef anyway. When we all got off of the train and beheld that beef standing forty feet in the air, the whole party thought it was a sign of a roasted beef. It was a sight to see the greedy eyes feasting on that stuffed beef as we passed under it; but we were to be pitied as the train had stopped nowhere for dinner, and we had eaten up all the roasted and unroasted peanuts that the peanut vendor had on the train. You may know what a hungry looking crowd we were, but we did not see any roast beef nor have a barbecue. I think if that striped animal had fallen off of the arch in the crowd, it would have been devoured in less time than a gang of cayotes could devour a buffalo carcass. But we got full—that is, we all got plenty to eat by paying $2 for our supper, bed, and breakfast. We were glad of the accommodations, even at that price. When you visit Kiowa, you don’t want to care for expenses.
After supper the crowd was called together—all that could get together—at the Hardwick House and after some very fine music by the Wellington band, the excursionists were addressed by Mr. Dobson, mayor of the city, in which he stated that he was completely surprised to think that 1,500 people would drop down on them at one time just to see their little city. He said their town was only six months old and had already about 1,000 inhabitants. Judge Reed, of Wellington, also addressed the crowd, making some fine remarks about the southwestern country. Some gentleman from Kansas City also made some remarks in which he said there were three great cities. First, the city of Chicago; Kansas City; and, last, but not least, the city of Kiowa. Then the chairman suggested that after some more music from the band there would be a free dance on the platform adjoining the hotel, and those who had no place to stay “could dance all night and go home in the morning.” The platform was 40 x 100 feet. They had fine music and the Kansas City, Wellington, Winfield, Oxford, and Kiowa people all joined hands and had a jolly old time by the sweet, silvery light of the moon.
My object in taking this trip west was for my own satisfaction and to see if all reports were true that we had been hearing. I had been told by many that they had been having much more rain than we had and that the crops were much better. Now, after seeing with my own eyes, I emphatically deny the reports. I do not think they have had any more rain than we have had. I saw some pieces of corn that were green and nice yet, and some that were dried up, some were well eared, and some had no ears at all on it, just the same as in this county. The early corn is good, but the late is a failure. Some say the soil is just as good out west as it is here. Now I can deny this. I paid particular attention to the crops and soil and want to say right here, I would not give a good quarter section of Cowley County soil for any section of land I saw west of a little town called Crystal, about fourteen miles west of Harper, for agricultural purposes. At this place and on west the soil is a deep red, with not an inch of black soil to be seen. The water that stands in pools is a red color and did not look even fit for stock to drink. If the soil was only a Mulatto color with a little black mixed in, I would think it better for agriculture. I did not see any grass west of Attica that was tall enough to cut. I noticed that there was not much fall plowing done, on account of the dry weather. The ground is just as dry out there as it is here. I examined some ground that had lately been plowed and it looked as though it has had no rain on it this summer. I think that country, to make a good farming country, wants a rain every day in the week and one on Sunday for a change. Between Attica and Chrisfield we passed through quite a valley, which A. J. Thompson called “Wild Horse Valley,” as there was a herd of Texas ponies running away from the train, and he took them for a genuine herd of wild horses; but he was informed by someone that they were only Texas ponies. Between Chrisfield and Hazelton we ran into the prairie dog towns and Jap Cochran thought they were pigs following the cattle until he was told better by some bystander, who informed him that they did not raise hogs in that country.
Among the excursionists from Cowley, I noticed the following persons: J. J. Johnson, New Salem; F. M. Fall, Cambridge; J. Hiatt, Cambridge; S. Phenix, Floral; J. Finkleburg, Arkansas City; N. T. Snyder, Arkansas City. From Winfield: A. J. Thompson, Walter Denning and wife; Uncle Billy Moore and wife; Jap Cochran and mother; Barnthouse, the soda man; Sol Fredrick; John Eaton and wife; C. W. Stolp and son; Jake Goldsmith; Sam Stivers and brothers; and Gray, of the Telegram.
We left Kiowa at 12:30 and arrived home at 5:30, all except Jap Cochran. I think he got off on the way to get some of those pigs. I don’t think there was an investment made out of the whole party on account of the high prices. A. J. Thompson don’t value lots out in Kiowa like he does in Winfield. They tried to sell some lots at auction the day we left, and Thompson bid $100 for a lot on Main street, but I think one of the town company over-bid him and he did not get it. Now if anyone that was on this grand excursion can give a better description of the trip, I am ready to hear from them.
T. J. HARRIS.
W. P. Gibson...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 1, 1885.
Real estate begins to change hands at a rapid rate and good figures. Messrs. Harris & Clark have just completed the sale of the J. P. Henderson farm, in Pleasant Valley township, to Dr. S. W. Biddinger, of Columbus, Indiana, for $7,200. Also the W. P. Gibson farm, Ninnescah township, for $2,000, together with numerous other sales. If you want to sell your farm or city property, put it in the hands of Harris & Clark and it will be readily sold. They now have the cash purchasers for three or four eighty acre tracts within the radius of 3½ miles of Winfield. If you want to sell such a farm, see them at once.
Augusta Gibson [Have no idea who she is related to]...
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
A Surprise.
One of the greatest, most unlooked for, and most pleasant surprises of my life occurred at my residence on the evening of Feb. 13th. It was on this wise. The girls of my Sabbath school class (composed of girls from ten to fourteen years old) to the number of sixteen, accompanied by two boys of about the same age—came with lunch in their hands—and while I was sitting at my table with pencil in hand, ready to write a letter, wholly unconscious of any hostile intent, in marched said girls and took me prisoner before I knew they were in the house. Mrs. Holloway was in the secret, and I tell you it was well planned and better executed. I guess I will get well right away now, for I have not laughed as much in a whole year as I did at their innocent, mirthful, and antic playing. We had a nice lunch together, and a joyful, happy time. God bless all these dear girls of my class who made the surprise, and also those who could not come. The names of those present were Mattie Bard, Cora Stocking, Mary Trezise, Nannie Gilbert, Cora Goodrich, Ona Wright, Gertrude Bedilion, Mediae Hamilton, Maggie Bedilion, Leona Hoxie, Lula McGuire, Augusta Gibson, Fannie Kensal, Allie McDonald, John Ballard, and Willie Wright.
S. S. HOLLOWAY.
Gibson: Maple Township...
Cowley County Courant, April 6, 1882.
From an unnamed Maple township correspondent:
E. J. Coal is building a new residence on the Gibson place.
W. Gibson...
[TRIAL DOCKET: DISTRICT COURT.]
Cowley County Courant, April 20, 1882.
CIVIL DOCKET. FIFTH DAY.
A. W. Goodell vs. W. Gibson et al.
Minnie Gibson, Winfield...
The Christmas Night Wedding.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 1, 1885.
A large assembly witnessed the marriage of Mr. Fred D. Blackman and Miss Ida M. McDonald, in the Methodist church last Thursday evening. The ceremony was most impressively conducted by Rev. B. Kelly, and the happy couple were attended by Misses Lizzie McDonald and Maude Kelly and Messrs. W. C. Robinson, Lewis Brown, James Lorton, and Charley Dever. The bride was beautifully attired in white satin. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Mr. Robinson, on behalf of the official church board, stepped to the rostrum, and in a very neat speech presented the bride with forty dollars in gold as a token of appreciation of her valuable musical services to the church. At eight o’clock a large number of friends were received at the home of the bride’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. R. McDonald, where congratulations, an excellent repast, and general mirth were freely indulged in. The presents were numerous and elegant, and the congratulations hearty. Among the most noticeable presents was a very handsome silver pitcher, presented to Mr. Blackman by his young gentlemen friends. No personal mention of ours could possibly add to the high esteem in which the happy couple are held by all who know them. The COURIER again wishes them happiness and prosperity. We append a list of the principal presents: White velvet hand-painted pin cushion, Miss Belle Lowe; pair of silver napkin rings, Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Millspaugh; picture and easel Madonna, Charles Dever; silver vase, Leota Gary; silver celery stand, Lizzie Graham; silver vase, Minnie Gibson; colored glass with castor, Nettie McCoy; colored glass water set, W. C. Robinson; pair of hand-painted gilt plaques, Lena Walrath; hair ornament, Gracie Oliver; hand-painted velvet banner, Mrs. Leavitt; bracket lambrequin, Jessie Millington; hand-painted hammered brass plaque, Miss Anna Hunt; beveled-edge French plate mirror with Hammered Brass frame, M. Hahn; gold-lined individual silver butter dishes, Miss Delia Lisk; set silver teaspoons, sugar spoon, and butter knife, Lizzie and Margie Wallis and Maggie Taylor; Russia leather photograph album, Louis and Addison Brown; one-half dozen China fruit plates, Lucy Tomlin; one set silver spoons, Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Robbins and Miss Carrie Tillotson, Aurora, Illinois; China salt and pepper bottles, Mr. and Misses Rev. Kelly; silver cake basket, Ida Johnston; silver fruit basket, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Miner; silver berry dish, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Kennedy and Miss Lydia Young; large mounted silver water pitcher and mug, E. H. Nixon, M. H. Ewert, Geo. Headrick, James Lorton, and M. J. O’Meara; silver tea-set and waiter, bride’s parents.
JOHN N. L. GIBSON. ARKANSAS CITY.
Note: I am not certain if “John Gibson,” the barber located at Arkansas City, had a middle initial or not. There were two items with initials below. I do not know.
J. N. L. Gibson, Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1882.
We, the undersigned, saw the Centennial washer tested this morning at Mr. Bryant’s Restaurant, and can conscientiously say that it will do a washing without any rubbing, in less time, with less soap, fuel, and labor than any machine we ever saw on the market.
NAMES: Charles Bryant, Mrs. Chas. Bryant, Wm. H. Palmer, Jr., Myrtle Bryant, J. A. L. Romine, L. H. Teets, Charlie Clark, J. N. L. Gibson, G. W. Miller, John J. Clark.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1884.
A good barber can get employment at John Gibson’s, Arkansas City.
Arkansas City Republican, June 28, 1884.
John Gibson says he will buy no lots unless the owners furnish an abstract.
Arkansas City Republican, July 5, 1884.
John Gibson declares he will never accept the hand of the fairest lady of our land, unless the parties interested will furnish him a perfect abstract of title. John will run no more risks.
Arkansas City Republican, August 30, 1884.
John Gibson, one of our knights of the razor, is quite sick this week.
Arkansas City Republican, December 6, 1884.
John Gibson moves his barber shop in the front end of Bluebaugh’s billiard hall next week.
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 24, 1884.
Geo. Haysel has rented the building occupied by John Gibson, as a barber shop, and will soon open a restaurant.
Arkansas City Republican, January 10, 1885.
Geo. Haysel has rented the room formerly occupied by John Gibson and opened a lunch counter. All of George’s former customers remember him and his accommodating manner and like the prodigal son, will return to his festive counter when hungry.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
The Model Lunch Room was opened last week, with Geo. Haysel as proprietor. It occupies John Gibson’s old stand. With George as proprietor and Charles McWilliams as manager, we all know what we can expect as their success in the past proves.
Arkansas City Republican, January 31, 1885.
John Gibson has rented the room formerly occupied by M. Stopher with his harness stock, and is having it fitted up very neatly for his barber shop. He will remove his barbering outfit there in a few days.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 4, 1885.
John Gibson will move his barber shop this week into the room occupied, until recently, by Mr. Stopher as a harness shop. John is fixing this room up in excellent shape and will soon be prepared for the increased patronage he expects.
Arkansas City Republican, February 7, 1885.
John Gibson has moved into his new shaving parlors. They are handsome.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1885.
John Gibson’s new barber shop, just south of the St. Louis Restaurant, is one of the neatest rooms in the city.
Arkansas City Republican, June 20, 1885.
Homer Deets has employed Alex. Vaughn in his barber shop. He was formerly with John Gibson.
Arkansas City Republican, July 25, 1885.
THE FIRE.
Arkansas City Visited Once Again by the Devouring Flames.
Last Monday night between 11 and 12 o’clock the cry of “fire” rang out upon the still night, and the gentle Kansas zephyrs wafted the sound to the ponderous ears of the REPUBLICAN reporter. Springing from our bed, of down—on the floor—we hastily donned the first article we placed our hands on and started on a dead run for the scene of the conflagration. We were among the first to arrive and we found the St. Louis Restaurant and Grimes & Son’s Drug Store almost enveloped in flames. The fire had gained so much headway that it was impossible to put it out.
The predominating idea was to save Mowry & Sollitt’s brick drug store, and leave the old frame buildings go. In accordance with the view, the hose was turned on the Pickle building while the excited populace attempted to tear down the building occupied by A. G. Heitkam with his tailoring establishment, but the heat from the burning buildings was so excessive that the crowd turned its efforts to tearing out the Diamond Front building.
The fire spread in both directions and in 20 minutes after the origin of the fire, the St. Louis Restaurant, Grimes & Son’s Drug Store, Chas. Bundrem’s Meat Shop, D. L. Means’ Implement House, and O. F. Lang’s Restaurant were in ashes.
By the time the fire had got a good hold on Heitkam’s Tailor Shop, the Diamond Front building had been torn out and the brick drug store was saved.
The nine buildings were burned in about one hour and a quarter. After once getting a start, they went as if they had been saturated with coal oil. They were so dry and old that it is a wonder that the fire was not conveyed across the street by the great heat. The wind hardly stirred and by persistent efforts of everyone, the fire did not get into the brick buildings.
The fire originated in the rear of the St. Louis Restaurant. T. S. Moorhead, who rooms over C. R. Sipes’ Hardware Store across the street, was sitting in the window of his room and saw the flames burst forth from that establishment. Some say the fire originated in the New York Restaurant, but it is a mistake, for when the REPUBLICAN representative arrived on the scene, this building had not caught fire. No one knows positively how the fire started, but the most probable theory advanced is that a tallow candle had been left burning in the St. Louis Restaurant, sitting on a board; and that the candle burned down to the board, setting it on fire. The flames were spread by the melted tallow on the board until they got a good start, and by the time it was discovered, they were past subjection. C. A. Burnett, the proprietor of the restaurant, had gone home, but we are informed that one of the employees was sitting in the business room asleep in a chair.
THE LOSERS AND THEIR LOSSES.
D. L. Means occupied the corner room with an implement stock. He carried a $3,000 stock and had only $1,000 of insurance. James Benedict owned the building and was carrying $500 insurance. His loss is probably in the neighborhood of $500.
The two next buildings were owned by Dr. J. T. Shepard and were occupied by Chas. Bundrem with his meat market and Grimes & Son with their drug stock. The doctor had $800 insurance on his buildings. Chas. Bundrem had $600 on his shop fixtures and Grimes & Son $1,500 on their drug stock. Dr. Shepard’s loss above insurance was about $600, Mr. Bundrem about $300, and Grimes & Son about $1,300.
The building owned by Mrs. Wm. Benedict was insured for $300. Her loss was about $500 above insurance. C. A. Burnett occupied the building with his restaurant stock valued by him at $2,500. His insurance was $1,500.
John Gibson occupied the next room with his barber shop; he was insured for $350. He saved about half of his fixtures.
The next building was owned by S. B. Pickle and was not insured. O. P. Lang occupied it with his New York Restaurant stock. Mr. Lang carried $500 insurance and his loss was $500 above that amount.
The next was the barber shop of Frank Perryman. He saved all of his goods.
The building occupied by A. G. Heitkam was owned by J. H. Sherburne and was not insured. Mr. Heitkam carried $800 insurance on his own stock. His loss was about $400.
Next and last was the Diamond Front, owned by Kroenert & Austin. They carried insurance to the sum of $1,000 on the building and grocery stock. Their loss above insurance was $2,000.
Ivan Robinson’s coal scales burned. Loss $200; no insurance.
NOTES.
D. L. Means has resumed business. He is now located in the first building west of his former Shabby Front. See his ad upon the inside of the REPUBLICAN.
Arkansas City Coal Company have commenced business again. Its office is one block west, where it was located before the fire.
Chas. Bundrem will open his meat market as soon as he can obtain a room.
C. A. Burnett will not open his restaurant again for awhile.
John Gibson will commence barbering as soon as he can get a room.
A. G. Heitkam will be on deck in a few days. He is busy hunting for a room.
Kroenert & Austin removed the stock saved from the burned Diamond Front to the skating rink room. This firm is fortunate in having two stores in operation. They can go right on and supply their trade without any hesitancy.
Some of the lot owners of the burnt district talk of re-building.
The crowd was bubbling over from excitement. Several parties fastened ropes to the Stedman Building and were pulling it to pieces, but were stopped by some clearheaded individual.
Ery Miller and C. Mead did good work with the hose in staying the flames.
Grimes & Son’s statements were destroyed. We feel sorry for Judge Gans’ pocket book this month.
Dave Beatty rushed into his meat shop, rolled out the meat blocks, pitched the scales out in the street, carried his ice from the refrigerator into the street, removed his stock of meat to across the canal, and then carried them all back the next morning. Probably Dave was the most excited man in town unless it was H. P. Farrar, who attached a rope to a maple tree and was trying to pull it out by the roots. He did not succeed.
Charley Hilliard saved an armful of broken ball bats.
Frank Hess had about $6,000 worth of insurance in the “burnt district.” Snyder & Hutchison about $2,000; Meigs & Nelson, $850; Collins & Perry, $1,000; and J. L. Howard, $400.
We frequently hear those non-excitable people telling just how they could have put out the fire, but they took good care to stand off at a safe distance while the fire was raging. It was the excitable people who did the effective work.
Now is a good time to talk a system of water works. If we must have fires, we must have something to fight them with.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 29, 1885.
John Gibson, one of the fire victims, has leased Perry & Collins’ real estate office next to the Leland House, and will open a barber shop as soon as he procures furniture. He has been fortunate in securing a first-class location.
Arkansas City Republican, August 1, 1885.
John Gibson has leased the room formerly occupied by Collins & Perry and opened up his barber shop.
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.
Trial Docket Cowley County District Court,
September Term, 1885, Commencing Sept. 1st.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 27, 1885.
2059. B W Matlack vs John N L Gibson et al. J. F. McMullen for plaintiff; Mitchell & Swarts for defendant.
DISTRICT COURT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 18, 1886.
Judge Torrance held a short adjourned session of the District Court Monday. George Ordway was examined by a committee, S. D. Pryor, J. F. McMullen, and Lovell H. Webb, and admitted to the bar. Mr. Ordway is an old attorney having been admitted to the bar, in Illinois, in 1851.
B. W. Matlack vs. John N. L. Gibson: dismissed with prejudice at plaintiff’s cost.
Arkansas City Republican, March 20, 1886.
Frank Perryman, the barber, is no longer with John Gibson. He presides over a chair in H. C. Deets’ tonsorial parlors now.
Joe Gibson, Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 16, 1886.
REPORT OF THE SCHOOL BOARD.
Statement of the amount of orders issued, to whom issued, and for what purpose issued, on the bond funds for the building of the Central or Stone School Building, between June 24, 1884, and December 19, 1884; and orders issued to teachers from October 1, 1884, to June 3, 1885. Also, amount orders issued on the Incidental fund from July 10, 1884, to June 3, 1885. This is the best the present board can do. Not having any receipts recorded on the district clerk books, drawn from the county treasurer, we can give nothing but the one side.
AMOUNT OF ORDERS ISSUED JANUARY 8, 1886.
MO. DA. YR. TO WHOM ISSUED. FOR WHAT PURPOSE ISSUED. AMOUNTS.
July 5, 1884 Joe Gibson, No. 145, Hauling furnace from Depot: $7.00
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 6, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Jeff. Darnell did excellent work yesterday in Silverdale Township for the Republican ticket. While, in the Democratic ranks, Joe Gibson labored. As the fruits of Darnell’s work, King got 32 majority; the result of Gibson’s was a majority of five for Walton.
J. H. Gibson, Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Republican, August 23, 1884.
J. H. Gibson’s draying team started Tuesday evening from the Arkansas City lumber yard, and dashing down the street, ran into the awning in front of the Hasie block. They were stopped without any damage, but the escape of small boys along the street was miraculous.
Mrs. Gibson, Winfield...
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1883.
The annual election of officers of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union occurred at their meeting Saturday afternoon. Mrs. W. B. Caton was elected president; Mrs. Cairns and Gibson, vice presidents; Miss A. Service, Secretary; and Mrs. C. H. Greer, Treasurer.
L. Gibson [Lafayette] of Vernon Township...
Winfield Courier, February 15, 1883.
VERNON TOWNSHIP, Feb. 6, 1883.
To the Editor of the Winfield Courier:
SIR: We, the undersigned residents of Vernon Township, solemnly and sincerely enter our protest against such proceedings as were held in Winfield on the morning of Feb. the 1st, viz.: the hanging of Charles Cobb by a mob. We are in favor of punishing crime, but not in favor of mob law.
E. D. Skinner, Henry Hawkins, W. W. Painter, J. T. Prewitt, J. M. Householder, P. Hill, M. Gesler, L. F. Hess, A. H. Miller, Joseph Astor, J. S. Baker, F. H. Werden, T. Thompson, I. B. Corson, P. B. Lee, J. W. Millspaugh, R. Wellman, M. Nixon, L. E. Gault, M. W. Brown, W. L. Pennington, M. Nicholson. George Wilson, L. Gibson, T. B. Ware, Wm. Carter, H. G. Woolley, J. S. Ward, S. E. Case. W. S. Woolly, J. E. Wooley, W. L. Holmes, E. C. Martin.
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1883.
MARRIED. Married by Rev. P. B. Lee at his residence in Vernon Township, November 25, 1883, Mr. Lafayette Gibson and Mrs. Lydia A. Thorp.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
Mr. Lafayette Gibson brought to the COURIER office yesterday the best bundle of millett we have seen this year. It is about six feet high with heads ten inches long, and was raised on the Nancy Randall farm.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 17, 1885.
“Mr. Lafayette Gibson brought to THE COURIER office Thursday the best bunch of millet seen this year. It is about six feet long with heads ten inches long and was raised on the Nancy Randall farm. Winfield Courier.
“That may be considered good for Cowley County, but of course would hardly be noticeable in Meade. We have had millet here in our office six feet, nine inches high, and heads thirteen inches long. It takes a mighty good un to hold Meade County down.”
Fowler Graphic.
Oh, get out with your downing old Cowley! That millet was in its infancy. Before it could dry hanging in our office the heads grew to 15 inches and the stalks went as far as they could for the ceiling. And full grown millet all over Cowley twenty-eight hands high was no surprise this year. Get up earlier, Mr. Graphic! You’ll have to stay up all night to down prolific Cowley.
W. B. Gibson, Arkansas City...
Arkansas City Traveler, July 18, 1883.
Frank J. Hess made the following sales yesterday: W. J. Feagins to Alfred Elliot, 80 acres, $1,200; W. R. Branson to M. Bond, 80 acres, $1,000; W. B. Gibson to W. S. Rhoads, lots, $500; A. A. Newman et al, 5 lots in block 153 to Geo. W. Bean, $110; Frank J. Hess to Geo. W. Bean, 7 lots in block 144, $350; F. J. Hess to J. Harbaugh, $250.
Robert Gibson...
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1884.
Mr. Robert Gibson, who has been out in Barbour County for some time, returned to Winfield a few days ago, and is again a salesman for McDonald and Miner.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1884.
Messrs. Geo. Fishback, late of New Albany, Indiana, and Morgan Ashton, of Western Cowley, acquaintances of Mr. Robert Gibson, visited Winfield last Saturday. Mr. Fishback is a newspaper man and has the material now on the way for a new paper at Shannon, Barbour County.
Winfield Courier, November 20, 1884.
A New Winfield.
The new town of Ashland, in Clark County, is getting to be one of the “Infant Wonders” of western growth. It was laid out by a party of Winfield gentlemen some four weeks ago. There are now thirty houses up and foundations being laid for others as rapidly as the lumber can be got on the ground. The town is on Bear Creek, at the intersection of the two great western trails. Already a newspaper is running in full blast. It has two hotels, restaurants, and almost every modern convenience. Every deed given by the Town Company provides that should intoxicating liquors be sold on the premises, the deed becomes null and void. It is to be emphatically a temperance town. Mr. W. R. McDonald, of this city, is President and Messrs. Nipp, Hughes, Cooper, Taylor, Averill, Gibson, Bullene, Kinnear, Hall, Berry, Gridley, Hudson Bros., Greer, and several others constitute the town company. It is located near the center of Clark County, and will be the county seat when the county is organized. Messrs. Hughes & Cooper are putting in a stock of hardware; also Mr. Kinnear, McDonald, and Miner are putting in a large stock of dry goods. The settlers are pouring into the county and claims are being taken rapidly. The land is good and the general lay of the country smooth. A very large number of Cowley County people have taken claims around the new town. Many other persons from this vicinity are going out to take claims or engage in business.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 26, 1885.
Mr. Robert Gibson, for several years with the dry goods establishment of W. R. McDonald, left for Medicine Lodge Tuesday, to engage in dry goods on his own hook.
Samuel and Annie Gibson, students...
[SCHOOL REPORT.]
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1884.
The report of New Canton school District 91, for the term commencing November 19, 1883, and ending March 7, 1884. Number of pupils enrolled, 34; with a daily average of 15.
The general average of the A Grade for the last examination 98 ½. Charles Daugherty 95, Samuel Gilson 95, Willie Jacobus 93, McPherson Daniels 95, Frank Brandow 90.
B grade, general average 93-27, Susie Walck 90, Annie Gilson 98, John Gilson 88, Ralph Smyth 95, Alvah Jacobus 95, Bertie Rader 92, Laura Brandow 95.
C grade, general average 98, Charley Tice 98, Grace Jacobus 98, Orlando Smyth 97 ½, Mable Brandow 98, Malissa Morse 98 ½.
Names of those whose deportment was 100, for the term: Samuel Gibson, Willie Jacobus, Charles Daugherty, Leon Jacobus, McPherson Daniels, Frank Brandow, Susie Walck, Annie Gibson, Laura Brandow, Mable Brandow, Grace Jacobus, and Malissa Morse. Lou Norman was neither tardy nor imperfect during the whole term.
We closed school with a general examination, in which all acquitted themselves well, thereby proving that their time had been well improved.
We spent a part of the last day in spelling; an exercise in which the pupils took a great interest, and which they preferred to the “Mary had a little lamb” exercises. Mr. Samuel Gibson “spelled the school down,” after which we repaired to our homes well satisfied with our winters work. MATTIE DANIELS, Teacher.
William A. Gibson, Winfield...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 14, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds yesterday.
William A. Gibson to Curns & Manser, lots 10, 11 and 12, block, Citizens ad to Winfield: $500
W. G. Gibson and Miles T. Gibson...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds yesterday.
W G Gibson et ux to M T Gibson, s ½ of ne ¼ 4-32-s-8e ex 5 a: $2,500
Miles T. Gibson...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
Miles T Gibson et ux to Robert J Yeoman, 75 acres S S ne qr 4-32-3-e: $3,100
H. Gibson...
What the County Fathers Have Done Since Our Last Report.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 16, 1885.
The viewers report in the M. L. Wilson county road was adopted and damages awarded Barney Shriver, $80; and H. Gibson, $30.
James T. Gibson, Joseph H. Gibson, Owen S. Gibson...
LAND SLIDES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
The following are the real estate transfers filed in the office of Register of Deeds since our last issue.
James T Gibson et ux to James M Hamil, ne qr sw qr and n hf se qr 5-34-7e: $350
Joseph H Gibson et ux to Owen S Gibson, lots 27 and 28, blk 139, A C: $500
A. E. Gibson...
The Last Day of The Cowley Co. Fair—A Grand Success.
OUR FAME SPREAD ABROAD!
The Possibilities of Cowley Co. Shown in all Their Glory—Various Fairisms.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 1, 1885.
THURSDAY.
This is Winfield and Arkansas City Day at the Fair and decidedly the biggest day of all. Prettier weather couldn’t be asked for than has been given the Cowley County Fair & Driving Park Association for their grand exhibition this week. Every day has been clear and balmy. Today was experienced the first terror—the dust, which a high breeze and the immense crowd stirred up in huge gobs that slapped a fellow in the face like hail stones. Uncle Wesley Paris, with his street sprinkler, kept the dust down as far as the Santa Fe depot. The wealth to send him clear through should have been raised. The first reinforcement this morning came in at 8 o’clock from Arkansas City, six coaches, jammed full, and accompanied by the Buckskin Border Band, in their Noble Red man uniforms. Their music is first class and one of the most acceptable sources of pleasure on the Fair Grounds today. The Arkansas City crowd was followed by delegations from everywhere, a big majority of Cowley’s population and a fine representation from every joining county. Winfield was out in full force and the business houses were closed this afternoon from 12 to 5 o’clock. Today finished the awarding of most of the premiums, and red and blue ribbons were decorating the exhibits in profusion, making everything in intelligent shape for the thousands of sight-seers. The profusion of compliments and enthusiasm over the vast possibilities of old Cowley fell like rain. The magnificent exhibits in every department entranced all, and made an advertisement for our splendid county that will go thundering down the ages, a charm to thousands of easterners. Strangers, in Kansas prospecting, visited our fair numerously and were almost knocked down with surprise at the hugeness of Cowley’s productions. They did not expect to find the same prolificness way down in a border county. Facts kill concocted ideas every time.
SPEED RING EVENTS.
The closest speed ring contest yesterday was in the 2:40 trot, 1½ mile best three in five. Judge McDonald’s “Rebecca,” A. E. Gibson’s “Brown Bird,” Emeline and Frank N. Strong’s “Nellie Mac.” The full five heats were run, the first two won by Nellie Mac and the last three by Rebecca, giving the latter first money and Gray Bird second and Nellie Mac third. Purse $100. Time 2:40. Rebecca is a beautiful traveler, a stretcher from the word go; but when she breaks on a heat, she is mighty hard to get down to business.
John A. Gibson, of Butler, Montana...
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1886.
John A. Gibson, of Butler, Montana, arrived here on Friday. He will spend Christmas in this city, a guest of Mrs. Lockley.
COVERAGE OF SOME LATER PAPERS.
Mrs. H. S. Gibson, Arkansas City [Wife of Henry S. Gibson, engineer]...
Arkansas City Traveler, Friday, March 14, 1919.
Y. W. C. A. ANNUAL MEETING.
Association Members Will Hold Session Next Tuesday Night.
The annual meeting of the Young Women’s Christian Association will be held next Wednesday evening, March 18th, at 8 o’clock in the Y. W. C. A. rooms. This is a very important meeting. Every member of the association is invited and expected to be present. Reports of the past year’s work from all departments will be given at this time. The constitution of the Y. W. C. A. reads, “The management of this association shall be vested in a board of directors of not less than eighteen women, who shall have supervision over all work”, etc. “These directors shall be elected by ballot of the electors at the annual meeting.” “At the organization of the association one-third to be elected for one year, one-third for two years, and one-third for three years. Thereafter, one-third of the full board shall be annually elected for a term of three years.”
The following ladies’ terms expire at this time: Mrs. Geo. Wheeler, Mrs. H. S. Gibson, Mrs. F. W. Deane, Mrs. W. C. Ireton, Mrs. A. H. Moore, Mrs. F. M. Taylor. These women have been very efficient and faithful in their service and merit the thanks of the entire association. Let there be a full attendance at the meeting Tuesday night.
If our association is worth preserving, it is worth the time and effort necessary to make it function well.
If it is worth keeping alive at all, it is worth the interest and enthusiasm that will make it glowingly vital. The life of the Young Women’s Christian Association in Arkansas City, in large measure, will be determined by our coming year’s work.
So let us go forth with a rapture in our hearts, with no sense of our own importance; but with quiet gratitude for the privilege of working toward the goal, which is nothing less than the high purpose of our association leading and directing our young women and girls in loyalty to Jesus Christ.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, March 19, 1919.
Y. W. C. A. ANNUAL MEETING.
Business Session Last Night Was Very Successful Affair.
Last night the annual meeting of the Y. W. C. A. was held in the Y. W. rooms with a large number of ladies present and a most interesting session. Many very fine reports were given and should have been heard by more of the members of the Y. W. This is a grand work and all women of the city should have a part in making it a success. Those who have been instrumental in making the local Y. W. a success are pleased to know that their efforts have not been in vain.
Mrs. Oldroyd, chairman of the Y. W. C. A. board, presided at this time. Mrs. Gardner conducted the devotionals, after which the reports were given. Mrs. Clark, secretary of the board of directors, gave a splendid report. During the year eleven regular meetings have been held, fifteen called meetings, and an average attendance of eleven or more at these meetings. Mrs. Denton, treasurer, also gave her report, which was published a few days ago in the daily papers. Mrs. Gibson, chairman of the cafeteria committee, told of the successful year this department has had and stated that on the first day 17 meals had been served and on Feb. 28, 85 meals were served, showing an increase of 20 percent in nine months. Mrs. Gibson says the success of this department in the past nine months is due largely to the able manager and director, Mrs. Love. Credit is also due the ladies who untiringly and willingly assisted in this work. The ladies wish to thank everyone who has assisted in this department. Mrs. Andrews, chairman of house furnishings, gave a good report. She states that ten rooms have been furnished throughout at a cost of about $135 a room. Some of the rooms were furnished by individuals and clubs. There are nineteen girls now known as regular roomers. Mrs. Gardner reported that $5,200 had been received from the recent drive and she extended a word of thanks to the people of the city for this sum of money which will be used in extending this work.
During this meeting six ladies were elected to fill the six places made vacant by those retiring from the board. Those who retired were Mrs. George Wheeler, Mrs. H. S. Gibson, Mrs. Frank Doane, Mrs. A. H. Moore, Mrs. W. C. Ireton, and Mrs. F. M. Taylor.
There were nineteen names placed on the board; and of these Mrs. Geo. Wheeler, Mrs. H. S. Gibson, Mrs. J. O. Campbell, Mrs. Frank Bryant, Mrs. A. H. Abrams, and Mrs. Edwin Tufts were elected. The association is in splendid condition and the new year is starting off with fine prospects.
Mrs. J. O. Brown stated that there were 318 paid members up to date. Miss Rodger, the general secretary, reported for the three months that she has been in charge. She found some very interesting facts connected with the survey that she took; namely that 100 girls were attending business college and that 65 of these were from out of town, 25 girls were employed in laundries with an average wage of $8.00 per week, 32 girls were working in the telephone office and the majority of these were living in the city, 37 young ladies were employed in the Santa Fe offices with an average wage of $85.00 per month.
Miss Rodger has organized Bible study classes, French classes, business, English, folk games, and an orchestra. The organization of the business girls will be perfected on Friday of this week. Miss Rodger states that one of the biggest things the Y. W. stands for in any community is the “Big Sister” movement. We are here to give a friendly hand to any girl who comes to us, no matter what her religion or the condition of her pocket book. We want our Y. W. C. A. to really stand for home to the girl who is away from home, Miss Rodger stated.
Arkansas City Traveler, Tuesday, December 13, 1921.
Y. W. C. A. Board Meets
Last night at 7 o’clock the members of the board of directors of the Y. W. C. A. held their regular monthly meeting in the Y. W. C. A. home on South First street. There was a full attendance on this occasion and one of the most enthusiastic meetings of the year. Dinner was served at 7 o’clock after which the regular business was attended to.
RECAP: President, Mrs. Gardner.
Mrs. J. O. Campbell led devotional reading.
Prayer afterwards, Mrs. Mary Clark.
Mrs. Lane, chairman of the girls work committee, reported six corps of girls organized and working.
Mrs. Ralph Oldroyd, publicity manager.
Mrs. A. J. Hunt reported on social events given for the working girls.
Mrs. Gibson, chairman of the educational committee.
Mrs. Anthony Carlton, directing sewing class.
Mrs. Widner, house matron, reported dormitory full.
Miss Wilson announced upcoming annual membership meeting...January 26, 1922.
Henry S. Gibson...
Arkansas City Daily Traveler, Thursday, September 29, 1921.
DARING TRAIN ROBBERY NEAR EDMOND, OKLAHOMA
Six Bandits Masked and Armed do the Work.
SANTA FE TRAIN, 405
Is Held up and 4 Mail Pouches Carried Away
MAIL CAR WAS CUT OFF.
Mail Clerks Compelled to Throw Mail Pouches Out—Bandits Escape in Waiting Auto.
Oklahoma City, Okla., Sept. 29.—A large posse comprised of sheriffs and police from this city and Oklahoma county early today were scouring the country around Edmond, Okla., where six masked and heavily armed bandits shortly after midnight last night boarded Santa Fe train No. 405, southbound from Kansas City, and forced the mail car clerks to throw off four pouches. The bandits disappeared in the dark with the bags, one of which officials believed to be registered mail. According to the authorities, no trace was left by the robbers.
J. E. McMahan, division superintendent of the Santa Fe, arrived early this morning from Arkansas City to investigate the robbery.
Later the total reward offered for the robbers was brought to $39,000 when officials of the railroad posted an offer of $1,000 for each of the six men and Governor Robertson announced a reward of $500 for each.
A telegram was received today by post office officials here from Postmaster General Hays, authorizing the offering of a reward of $30,000 for the capture of the bandits who held up train No. 405 of the Santa Fe line and robbed a mail car. The reward is in the form of $5,000 for each of the six men who participated in the robbery.
Bandits Railroaders?
Belief that the bandits were composed, at least in part, of men who are or have been in the employ of a railroad was expressed today by Santa Fe officials when further details of the robbery revealed that the engine and mail car, after being cut off from the rest of the train, were driven a quarter of a mile down the track by one of the robbers. An accomplice, who boarded the engine with him, covered the engineer and fireman with a rifle while he took the throttle. Henry Gibson of Purcell, Okla., the engineer, said he handled the throttle skillfully.
Fred Jones was in charge of the mail car. Clinton Swing and Fred Large were his assistants. All are from Newton, Kansas.
The men who cut off the mail car boarded the train at Edmond, twelve miles north of here. As the train approached a camp fire on the right-of-way, one of the robbers uncoupled the mail car from the rear part of the train, and the other two entered the engine cab. The train was stopped and three other men ran up from the camp fire and boarded the mail car, which was then drawn away from the train and looted. The robbers left in an automobile, which was awaiting them.
[AT THIS POINT, TRAVELER TOOK OVER ON NEWS ACCOUNT.]
Local Men on the Train
Santa Fe passenger train No. 405, which was held up and robbed of four mail pouches last night at midnight, three miles south of Edmond, was in charge of Conductor H. Wismyer, of Newton, and Engineer Hi Gibson and Fireman Lou Horton of this city. The Santa Fe office here received a meager report of the affair and the report sent here is to the effect that one or two of the masked men boarded the blind baggage at Edmond and when three miles south of that city, they climbed over the tender and commanded the enginemen at the point of revolvers to stop the train. This they did and when the conductor got off the train to ascertain the cause of the stop, he was held up also. Some of the men then compelled the trainmen to uncouple the mail, baggage car, and the engine from the remainder of the train and made them pull down the track for some distance. The mail clerk in charge, Frank Jones, was commanded to open the door, but this he refused to do. The robbers then blew the door open with dynamite and gained entrance to the mail car. They took four mail pouches and made their escape. There has as yet been no official report received here as to what sort of mail the four pouches contained. It is reported that there was a motor car waiting at the side of the track for the robbers, and that it was cranked up and the robbers made their escape in the car. An incident which may have had some connection with the train robbery was reported to this city today. It is the fact that a car was stolen from Ponca City last night and it may be possible that this car figured in the affair near Edmond.
Arkansas City Daily Traveler, Friday, September 30, 1921.
HAD SOME EXPERIENCE
Engineer H. S. Gibson Relates His Thrilling Story of Robbery.
Engineer H. S. Gibson, who, with Fireman Lou Horton, both of this city, was on the engine which pulled the Santa Fe passenger train No. 405, which figured in the holdup and robbery of the mail car near Edmond, Oklahoma, on Wednesday night, has returned to the city and he has a thrilling story of the holdup to tell the boys. And, by the way, he does not care to repeat the experience, as it is not a pleasant feeling by any means to look into the barrel of a large gun and have a man at the other end of the gun command you to stop the engine and turn it over to him. Mr. Gibson considers himself very fortunate in not having been shot and he is glad to be alive and at home again. In relating the story of the holdup to some of the boys this morning, Mr. Gibson gave the following bit of interesting information.
“The first thing I knew two men were coming over the top of the tender with guns in their hands and ordered the fireman, Lou Horton, and I to put up our hands. After they had reached us, they put us at our ease and told us that we would not be hurt as long as we did as they said. ‘It is the rich man’s money we want,’ one of them said. The man who was nearest me told me to go on until I came to a little fire built in the middle of the track. I went on and soon came to a little fire in the middle of the track with a man standing beside it. I stopped the engine. At this point a hobo, who had been riding in the blind, was told to beat it and he certainly did beat it, too.
“The mail car was uncoupled from the first baggage car, and I was ordered to go ahead about three or four hundred yards. By this time the bandits had the conductor and brakeman also under their charge. After I had stopped this time, the conductor, the brakeman, the fireman, and I were stood in a row and one man watched over us with a shotgun while the rest of them attempted to open the mail car door. The mail clerks had locked the door and were all inside the car. A small charge of dynamite was first used in the attempt to open the door, but with no avail. The discharge sounded like a pistol shot. Then a much larger amount of dynamite was used, and this time it sounded like they were tearing the car up. The robbers had not yet gained entrance to the mail car, but Conductor Wismyer of Newton, fearing that someone or all of the mail clerks would be killed, told them to open the door and come out.
“The bandits took what they wanted and disappeared into the darkness.
“A congenial conversation was kept up between us and the dark gentlemen. We discussed the weather and joshed one another throughout the action. After they had disappeared, we coupled up again and proceeded on to Oklahoma City.”
There was a report in circulation here today that an Oklahoma City officer, who is at work on the case, had stated that five of the men who figured in this daring holdup were known and that they would be under arrest soon. In fact a story to this effect was published in the Daily Oklahoman this morning.
Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Gibson...
Arkansas City Traveler, Saturday, May 13, 1922. Front Page.
Sick To Be Healed At Wilson Park
By One Of Devine Power.
Buzz! Buzz! Buzz!
All day long the telephone at the residence of Rev. and Mrs. William Gardner has been ringing with calls from the sick and interested people in the coming to Arkansas City of the “Miracle” woman, Mrs. Aimee Semple McPherson, from Wichita, where she is now causing great excitement by her marvelous and almost unbelievable cures.
Late yesterday a telegram was sent to Mrs. McPherson signed by the press, Chamber of Commerce, and civic organizations of the city urging her to come here for a meeting.
Her reply says:
“Mrs. McPherson joyfully accepts the invitation to come to Arkansas City. Tomorrow she will be able to state the date. She wants a delegate to come to Wichita from Arkansas City to confer with her in regard to arrangements for the meeting.”
Mrs. Gardner and the other people from here who saw the remarkable cures accomplished by Mrs. McPherson at Wichita a few days ago, rejoiced over the message. A delegate will be selected at a meeting of the Ministerial Alliance Monday to go to Wichita and arrange with Mrs. McPherson for her visit to Arkansas City.
“Will she do healing here?” Mrs. Gardner was asked.
Mrs. Gardner responded: “Undoubtedly she will. That is a part of her meetings. I am glad the people here will have the opportunity to see and hear her and witness her wonderful work.”
Arrangements will be made for the meeting in Wilson park, the date to be announced later. The woman healer has been taking Wichita by storm. One woman with a large goitre walked upon the platform to be treated and walked away with her affliction having entirely “melted” away. Cripples threw away their crutches! One preacher who had been bothered by stammering for years talked as well as anyone, and others suffering from various diseases declared they had been made well and strong by Mrs. McPherson.
In discussing the invitation to come here at Wichita, the mother of Mrs. McPherson said: “How could we resist an appeal like that? Just say that we are going.”
“Why bless their dear hearts, Yes,” added Mrs. McPherson, whose charm of personality is as great as her wonderful gift in healing the sick.
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Carlton, Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Gibson, and Mrs. G. W. Martin went to Wichita today to see Mrs. McPherson.
Jim Gibson, Silverdale...
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, July 12, 1922. Front Page.
Rescued by two men in a row boat from an island which was formed by the high waters in the Walnut River, southeast of the city last night, was the experience of Jay Thompson and his sister, Mrs. Lula Wilson, after the wife of Mr. Thompson had become uneasy in regard to the safety of her husband. He had gone to that location to work his farm land, and not having returned at a late hour, she had reported the matter to some of her neighbors, who in turn reported to the police station.
Chief Dailey sent the night desk sergeant, Frank Ketch, together with Deputy Sheriff F. A. Eaton, Judge W. T. Ham, Dwight Moody, and A. E. LeStourgeon, Jr., to the location where the man and woman were said to be in danger from the flood waters and Moody and Sam Smock, a resident of that locality, went in the boat across the several hundred feet of back water which was in some places ten to twelve feet deep, and brought Thompson and his sister to safety out of the dangerous zone. They were not harmed, but the water was dangerously near the house where Mrs. Wilson resides and they could not otherwise have got to the main shore that night.
The alarm was given to the neighbors by Mrs. Wilson, who with her husband resides in the extreme northeast part of the city. The water rose so rapidly that Thompson was marooned with his sister, who resides in the house which is now located on the island. They would have been compelled to remain there overnight, had not the rescuing party been formed late at night. They could not reach any of the neighbors by phone, as there was no phone at the Wilson home.
Judge Ham, being a former resident of that vicinity and having knowledge of the surroundings, was called and he in turn called Eaton and Moody, the latter securing the boat. Today the water is receding there. The house is not in danger, but Thompson will lose most of his melon crop. Thompson and Mrs. Wilson were cared for at the Smock residence last night, following the rescue, which was effected about midnight.
Word was received in the city today that Mr. and Mrs. Merle Matthews of near Cameron, in the vicinity of Grouse Creek, which was higher Monday night and yesterday than ever known before, were rescued from their home Monday night by relatives, who went there in a boat and took them from the house. At the time, there was a foot of water in the house and it was rising. Following the rescue of Mr. and Mrs. Matthews, they discovered that they had lost 500 small chickens in the flood of that night.
From Silverdale comes the report that Jim Gibson, of near that place, lost 150 head of hogs in the flood; and George Brown, of the same neighborhood, lost 100 head. It was reported here this afternoon that the north end of the Cameron Bridge, over Grouse Creek, was out and some of the county authorities are there today looking after the repair work.
