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E. P. Hickok
Winfield.
Winfield 1873: E. P. Hickok, 36; spouse, S. R., 34.
Winfield 1874: E. P. Hickok, 39; spouse, S. R., 35.
Winfield 1878: E. P. Hickok, 40; spouse, S. R., 37.
Winfield 1880: E. P. Hickok, 44; spouse, S. R., 39.
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
The Commonwealth, November 15, 1870.
COWLEY.
The people’s ticket, with the exception of county attorney and register of deeds, is elected by about 50 majority. Col. E. C. Manning is elected representative by 64 majority. Stover’s majority in the county is 348. The following are the county officers elect: T. B. Ross, probate judge; J. M. Patterson [Pattison], sheriff; E. P. Hickok, district clerk; A. A. Jackson, county clerk; George B. Green, treasurer; E. S. Torrence [Torrance], county attorney; W. A. Smith, register of deeds; H. L. Barker, surveyor; Dr. H. B. Kellogg, coroner; L. B. Walmsley, school superintendent; E. Simpson, G. H. Norton and T. A. Blanchard, commissioners.
The Commonwealth, November 29, 1870.
COWLEY COUNTY AGAIN.
To the Editor of the Commonwealth:
In your issue of the 26th, “XX,” writing from Winfield, makes a statement that certainly “contains some errors.”
He says “there are but three instead of six legally established townships in the county.”
I find on file in the office of the secretary of state, a record in the hand and also the signature of E. P. Hickok, clerk of Cowley County, describing the organization of Rock Creek, Winfield, Creswell, Cedar, Grouse, and Dexter townships, by the county commissioners last May; accompanied with a full map of the same!
This record is not to be found in the office of the present (deputy) county clerk. What villain’s hand has abstracted and destroyed it?
I have also on file the poll books from the rejected precincts. The informalities are very slight; the clerks and judges were as well known to the county commissioners as their own brothers; the case will not hold one moment against the legality of the returns in any court of justice.
It is flatly false that Capt. G. H. Norton was the first to object to the returns. T. A. Blanchard did that, and Capt. Norton’s vote, in opposition to the entire iniquity, is on record.
Capt. G. H. Norton’s name was put upon the “people’s ticket” without his knowledge or consent, and voted for against his protest.
Cowley County Censor, July 1, 1871.
Elder Hickok informs us that Perry, the would-be Notary Public for this county, is taking filings and charging our citizens four dollars. Settlers, look out for him. You can get your work done cheaper than that. Moreover, he has no bond on file; subsequently, he has no authority to take your filing, as he cannot legally administer an oath.
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
COWLEY COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY.
Owing to the unfavorable state of the weather during the late fair which prevented a proper exhibition of the articles entered for display, there will be an Exposition of all articles relating to the following classes: farm and domestic products, fruits, flowers, fine arts, textile fabrics, natural history, etc., on Saturday afternoon and evening, October 28th, 1871, in Rodocker’s Hall, Winfield. . . .
SUPERINTENDENTS.
Farm Products: A. T. Stewart.
Domestic Products: Mr. Clingman.
Fruits and Flowers: H. Hawkins.
Fine Arts: Prof. Palmer.
Textile Fabrics: W. W. Andrews.
Natural History: Prof. Hickok.
D. N. EGBERT, Secretary.
[PEOPLES’ CONVENTION: WINFIELD.]
Walnut Valley Times, October 20, 1871. Front Page.
PEOPLES’ CONVENTION.
The delegates from the several precincts to the Peoples’ Convention met at Winfield on Saturday, Sept. 30th, at 2 o’clock, P. M., and nominated the following officers:
For Representative, Judge T. McIntire, of Arkansas City.
For County Clerk, A. A. Jackson, of Winfield.
For Treasurer, E. B. Kager, of Arkansas City.
For Register of Deeds, J. H. Paul, of Vernon Township.
For Supt. Public Instruction, E. P. Hickok, of Winfield.
For Coroner, Manley Hemingway, of Windsor Township.
For County Commissioners for District No. 1, Mr. Phillips; District No. 2, H. L. Gilstrap; District No. 3, E. Simpson.
The ballots were as follows:
For Representative, J. H. Paul, 18, T. McIntire, 22, J. B. Fairbank, 8, R. B. Saffold, 2.
For County Clerk, A. A. Jackson was elected by acclamation.
For Sheriff, first ballot, a tie, second ballot: James Parker, 25, James Hart, 17.
For Treasurer, Kager, 32, J. P. Short, 11.
For Register of Deeds, J. F. Paul, 22; T. A. Hunt, 15; W. H. Dobyns, 4.
Manley Hemingway, E. P. Hickok, and three Commissioners were elected by acclamation.
This ticket gives more general satisfaction, and is a fairer distribution of offices than any ever before nominated. Arkansas Traveler.
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
NOTICE TO TEACHERS.
There will be a teacher’s examination on Thursday, the 12th inst.
E. P. HICKOK, Co. Supt.
Cowley County Censor, October 28, 1871.
E. P. HICKOK, CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT, WILL TAKE FILINGS FOR THREE DOLLARS EACH. Office in the Court House, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Messenger, July 26, 1872.
Baptist Association. The Southwestern Baptist Association, embracing the counties of Chase, Greenwood, Howard, Cowley, Butler, Marion, Harvey, and all west of these counties will hold its second annual meeting at Eldorado, commencing Friday, August 9th, at 2 o’clock p.m. Rev. E. P. Hickok of Winfield will preach the annual sermon. C. N. JAMES, Clerk.
Winfield Messenger, August 16, 1872.
GRANT AND WILSON CLUB. The Republicans of Winfield and vicinity met at the courthouse in this place on last Saturday evening for the purpose of organizing a Grant and Wilson Club. The organization of the club was perfected by the adoption of a constitution and by-laws, and the election of the following named persons as permanent officers: L. J. Webb, president; E. B. Kager, Vice President; E. S. Torrance, secretary; H. Brotherton, Treasurer. J. A. Myton, E. Davis, and E. P. Hickok were elected as members of the executive committee.
Winfield Messenger, August 16, 1872.
We understand that E. P. Hickok, our efficient District Clerk, will be a candidate for reelection. Mr. Hickok has the ability for the position, as the past two years have proven.
Winfield Messenger, August 16, 1872.
Mr. Editor: Will you allow me space to say a few words of interest to the friends of public school in our county?
Last year, through two failures, one to have our whole county districted and the other to secure annual reports from the districts that had been formed, our county lost more than two thousand dollars that should have been secured and spent for the benefit of popular education in our midst. In my mind there is no doubt that every inch of territory in our borders should be attached to some district, and that public funds should be drawn for everyone of school age in the county. Last year school laws could not be procured, in many cases clerks did not learn their duties till too late, our county superintendent “could not afford for three dollars a day in county scrip” to ride all over the county and inform clerks of their duties, and collect reports, and as a result of such a combination of circumstances the above loss to the county was the result.
I understand that some parts of the county are not yet districted but as a citizen of the county and one who feels a deep interest in the welfare of her public schools, let me ask that full and complete reports be made this fall. Let us secure all the funds which are our due, and when secured, use them for the advancement of popular education in our county.
In conversation with Mr. Hickok, our county Supt. some time ago, he gave it as his opinion and as he thought that of the State Superintendent that no district would be entitled to a share of public funds unless it had maintained a public school three months previous to the first of September next. By referring to page 4, Sec. 11, of the New School Law, you will see that it is Prof. McCarty’s opinion that districts which maintained their schools previous to January 1st are entitled to a share of the funds. Then let me urge every district in the county, in which there has not yet been a school, to see to it that one is put in operation previous to Oct. 1st, and all will be well.
Let us establish at once and maintain in our county a system of public schools that shall be a source of pride to all of us. It will take time and money to do this but the ends to be attained will more than compensate for the expense incurred. ALLEN B. LEMMON.
Aug. 13th, 1872.
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
Winfield Messenger, August 16, 1872.
Bill allowed: One in favor of E. P. Hickok, District Clerk, $32.30.
Bill allowed: One in favor of E. P. Hickok, District Clerk, $4.85.
[REPUBLICAN COUNTY CONVENTION.]
Winfield Messenger, August 30, 1872.
Convention proceeded to ballot for the following officers.
District Clerk: James Kelly 35, E. P. Hickok 19; W. W. Walton 12.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR—LIST OF PREMIUMS AWARDED.]
Winfield Messenger, October 4, 1872.
Lot Four—Mares and Fillies—Eleven Entries.
Premiums to W. J. Snodgrass, James Stewart, James Renfro, Daniel Miles, J. A. Kinney, George Knott, E. P. Hickok, W. McClellan.
Lot Nine—Short-horned Cattle—Nine Entries.
Premiums to Joseph Foos, J. H. Werden, W. Stewart, A. McClellan, W. E. Cook, E. P. Hickok.
Class O—Domestic Manufactures—Thirty-seven Entries.
Premiums awarded to Mrs. W. T. Tucker, Miss E. Tusker, Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Miss E. A. Graham, Mrs. J. H. Curfman, Mrs. W. H. H. Maris, Mrs. C. M. Wood, Mrs. W. J. Walton, Mrs. A. Bullen, Mrs. L. Lowry, Mrs. W. W. Andrews, Mrs. H. Y. Churchill.
[EDITORIAL PAGE: A QUERY.]
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
A Query. Editor of the Messenger: I learn that our worthy County Superintendent Hickok was allowed by our county board for seventy days work as Superintendent in the last quarter. There were seventy-nine working days in the quarter ending 30th of September. At least twelve days in July were occupied personally by the Superintendent as District Clerk, for he is the District Clerk and Superintendent. Does anyone believe that he spent one-half the sixty-seven days that the court was not in session in his superintendent capacity? If our board of county commissioners go on in this way, our taxes will soon become grievous. The bill for those seventy days allowed was $210. INDIGENCE.
Winfield Messenger, October 25, 1872.
UNION SABBATH SCHOOL. At the Sabbath school on last Sunday a week ago the following organization was effected: J. B. Fairbank, Superintendent; J. M. Dever, Assistant; Miss Ellis, Secretary; Mrs. Tousey, Librarian; S. Bliss, Treasurer, Music Committee, Mrs. Manning and Miss Blandin. Visiting committee, Miss Tucker and Dr. Egbert. Committee on class organization, Miss Tucker, Mrs. Hickok, and Dr. Egbert. A full attendance is hoped for on next Sunday. The school opens at precisely three o’clock in the afternoon at the Methodist church.
Winfield Messenger, November 1, 1872. Front Page.
PUBLIC EXAMINATION. Public examination of school teachers will be held at my office in Winfield, on Saturday, the 18th day of November, at 10 o’clock, A. M., and on the first Saturday of each month thereafter until further notice.
E. P. Hickok, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Cowley Co.
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
Winfield Courier, Saturday, January 11, 1873.
E. P. Hickok, office rent: $98.49.
E. P. Hickok, services as District Clerk, ending January 1st, 1873: $6.50.
E. P. Hickok, services as Supt. Pub. Instruction: $200.00.
Winfield Courier, Saturday, January 25, 1873.
Publication Notice.
RECAP: E. P. Hickok, PLAINTIFF, AGAINST MICHAEL SULLIVAN AND MINNIE E. JEWETT, FIRM NAME OF JEWETT AND SULLIVAN, DEFENDANTS. Justice Court before W. M. Boyer, Justice of the Peace in and for Cowley County, Kansas.
Jewett and Sullivan will hereby take notice that they have been sued by the Justice Court....The following personal property has been attached: One black horse and one set of double harness. Action brought to recover $29.75, for services of E. P. Hickok as clerk of the District Court.
[PROGRAMME OF TEACHERS INSTITUTE AT WINFIELD.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 20, 1873.
RECAP OF PARTICIPANTS ONLY. Charles Williston, J. B. Parmelee, Mrs. Bostwick, Mrs. J. C. Graham, J. B. Fairbank, Prof. Wilson, Prof. E. P. Hickok, Mrs. N. J. Ferguson, Prof. L. B. Kellogg, Mrs. Mina Hawkins, Prof. H. B. Norton, H. H. Martin, C. L. Rood, J. W. Cowgill, Alexander Limerick, Mrs. Bostwick, Miss Helen Parmelee, Miss Lizzie Swarts.
Efforts are being made to secure the presence of our State Superintendent, H. D. McCarty. T. A. WILKINSON, Co. Superintendent.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 27, 1873.
The Concerts given by the Sunday School last Thursday and Friday nights were very pleasant affairs. Mrs. E. P. Hickok and Dr. Egbert and Prof. Tyrrel were the leading adult spirits. Misses Blandin and Holmes presided at the piano, with taste and skill. Master Johnson, a lad of about seven years, was the star of the occasion. Mrs. Partington was hard to excel. At the close of the second evening’s exercises, a poem in memory of Mrs. D. P. Manning, composed and set to music, written by Mrs. E. P. Hickok, was sung in quartette very affectingly, Mrs. W. D. Roberts leading.
[TEACHER’S INSTITUTE.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 17, 1873.
The Teacher’s Institute of the 13th Judicial District, convened at the Academy in Winfield, on the evening of the 15th. Superintendent Wilkinson was chosen chairman, and Mr. Walton, secretary. The room was quite full; most of whom were citizens of Winfield. The attendance of teachers was not very full on account of the inclemency of the weather. The chairman stated that Mr. Parmelee, who was expected to lecture to the meeting, was unable to do so. Participants: Prof. Felter, author of Felter’s arithmetic, sent by State Superintendent McCarty; Major Durrow; Mr. Fairbank.
The following is a list of the names of Teachers present from abroad, who are in attendance at the Institute. David Coon, of Douglass, Butler County; J. C. Fetterman, of El Dorado, Butler County; S. A. Felter, Assistant State Superintendent of Public Instruction; Ida Myres, of Augusta, Butler County; H. C. Snyder of Augusta, Butler County; John Tucker, County Superintendent of Public Instruction of Sedgwick County; Mrs. S. E. Dunhan, of Sumner County; Maj. D. W. Durrow, of Junction City.
The following is a representation of our own county. Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Miss Tucker, Ira D. Kellogg, S. W. Greer, Effa Randle, Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Miss Graham, Miss Mollie Bryant, and Maj. J. B. Fairbank, of Winfield; T. A. Wilkinson, County Superintendent of Public Instruction of Cowley County; Misses Hawkins and Werden, of Vernon Township; Miss Ida Daggett, of Floral Township; Mrs. W. E. Bostwick, of Winfield Township.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 15, 1873.
We had the pleasure of attending the Baptist Sociable last Tuesday evening at the residence of E. P. Hickok, Esq. [Held out in the country...several wagon loads from Winfield went.] The afternoon was spent in games of croquet and long walks through the shady groves “by the riverside.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 10, 1873.
MARRIED. ROBERTS - COCHRAN. By the Rev. E. P. Hickok, July 3rd, 1873, at the residence of the bride’s father, Mr. John Roberts, Jr., to Miss Rosa J. Cochran, all of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 28, 1873.
At a meeting held by the children of Winfield on Wednesday of last week in the Methodist Church it was decided to have a picnic in Mr. Andrews’s grove on Friday Sept. 5th. The following committees were appointed.
On invitation: Mrs. E. P. Hickok, O. Lowry, M. Dever, Laura McMillen.
Chief Marshal: E. P. Hickok.
The children of the town and vicinity will meet in the Methodist church on that morning so as to start for the grove at 9 A.M. Outside districts are cordially invited to come and join with us in enjoying the day. Per order of the committee.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 16, 1873.
Owing to the illness of Mrs. E. P. Hickok there will be no school until Monday next.
[THE SOLDIERS’ REUNION.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 23, 1873.
Meeting of the Veterans. At half past 2 o’clock the soldiers, to the number of about 150, fell into line at the tap of the drum, and preceded by the Winfield Martial band, marched to the Methodist Church, which had been kindly tendered for their use. The meeting was called to order by T. A. Blanchard. L. J. Webb was chosen Chairman, and James Kelly, Secretary.
The chairman stated the object of the meeting to be to organize a permanent Soldiers’ Union. The roll being called; the following “Boys in Blue,” answered to their names.
NEW YORK. E. P. Hickok, Co. E, 2nd N. Y. Inf.
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 13, 1873.
Bill of E. P. Hickok, rejected.
Winfield Courier, November 20, 1873.
GRAND ANNUAL RE-UNION OF THE SOLDIERS OF COWLEY COUNTY,
ON THANKSGIVING DAY, NOV. 27, 1873.
A CORDIAL INVITATION To participate in the festivities of the day is hereby extended to all the soldiers residing in the county. The following PROGRAMME will be observed.
AT 10, A.M. THE Reception Committee will commence to make up the Roster and distribute tickets for DINNER To all whose names are entered thereon.
AT 11, A.M. SOLDIERS will fall into line, in marching order, on Main Street, the right resting on Ninth Avenue, under the direction of the officer of the day, CAPT. McARTHUR, And march to the COURTHOUSE Where an address of welcome will be delivered by Captain S. C. Smith, The Mayor of Winfield, and the organization of the Soldiers’ Union completed.
AT 1, P.M. SOLDIERS will fall in for dinner.
AT 3, P.M. THERE will be a meeting in the Courthouse, and addresses will be delivered by the following soldiers: Chaplain E. P. Hickok, Maj. J. B. Fairbank, Capt. James McDermott, A. D. Keith, S. M. Fall, Maj. T. B. Ross, Rev. N. L. Rigby, J. C. Bigger, Esq., and other soldiers present.
AT 7, P.M. THERE WILL BE A GRAND BALL! And dancing will be in order, to conclude the festivities of the day.
The proceedings of the day will be enlivened with appropriate music by the Winfield and Arkansas City Cornet Bands. A. A. JACKSON, Chairman Committee on Arrangements.
J. P. SHORT, Secretary.
[GRAND MASONIC FESTIVAL.]
Winfield Courier, December 12, 1873.
To be given for the benefit of Adelphi Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at the Courtroom, Winfield, Kansas, Dec. 25th, 1873. PROGRAMME. There will be a public installation of officers of the Lodge at the Baptist church at one o’clock P.M. After the Installation there will be a few short addresses by members of the order.
TABLE COMMITTEE. A. T. Stewart, J. F. Paul, T. A. Rice, W. M. Boyer, J. E. Saint, J. D. Cochran, J. C. Fuller, John Swain, J. A. Simpson, A. T. Shenneman, A. S. Williams, J. P. Short, Mrs. J. P. Short, Miss Read, Miss Mary Stewart, Mrs. Geo. Oakes, Mrs. J. F. Paul, Mrs. E. Maris, Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mrs. W. M. Boyer, Mrs. L. R. Paul, Mrs. L. J. Webb, Mrs. J. C. Weathers, Mrs. Newman, Mrs. Howland, Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. W. G. Graham, Mrs. J. D. Cochran, Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Miss Parmelee, Miss Lizzie Graham, Miss Yount.
VOCAL MUSIC COMMITTEE. Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. Brotherton, John Swain, H. Brotherton, Mrs. Green, Miss Newman, Miss Parmelee, Miss Bryant.
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1874.
The following bill was laid over and rejected.
E. P. Hickok Co. Supt. rejected: $12.00.
[DISTRICT COURT DOCKET FOR MARCH TERM.]
Winfield Courier, February 27, 1874.
CIVIL DOCKET. SEVENTH DAY. 54. E. P. Hickok vs. Board of Co. Commissioners.
Winfield Courier, July 3, 1874.
In the Courts. Last Monday night Mrs. W. D. Roberts was brought into her own house—having previously been arrested by officer Bliss of the police force, upon the charge of disturbing the peace. Upon being brought before his honor, Judge Hickok, Hon. S. D. Pryor arose and gave the Court to “understand and be informed, that Mrs. W. D. Roberts, at the county of Cowley, and on the 10th day of May, 1873, and on every Sunday save one, since said 10th day of May, 1873, at the Baptist church in Winfield, she, the said Mrs. W. D. Roberts, in a bold fearless manner, wilfully and knowingly disturbed the peace and quiet of many citizens of Winfield by using her tongue wilfully and fearlessly, in a loud voice, singing songs of praise to God, against the peace and quiet of many saloon-keepers, and contrary to the laws of king alcohol.” The prisoner was ably defended by Rev. N. L. Rigby. Before the counsel for the defense had concluded, however, the prisoner was discharged.
To show that they didn’t believe her guilty of any crime and as a slight token of their esteem, Mr. Rigby, on behalf of the company, presented her with a beautiful silver cake basket, which was indeed a surprise to Mrs. Roberts, but nevertheless appreciated by her. After the presentation the guests were right royally regaled with Ice Cream and cake. All went home glad that they had been there, and glad that so much affection exists in the human family, and hoping that many such occasions may be experienced “ere the roses droop and die.”
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1874.
Married. Sept. 7th, at the residence of the groom’s father, by the Rev. E. P. Hickok, Miss Sarah Reed to Mr. William Puden. All of Winfield Township.
Winfield Courier, December 31, 1874.
Prof. Hickok has two brothers visiting him who have been making the tour of Kansas and they like Cowley better than any region visited.
Winfield Courier, February 25, 1875.
Winfield Institute. The fourth lecture of the winter course will be delivered at the courthouse on Monday evening next, March 1st, by Prof. E. P. Hickok. Subject: Ocean Currents. Tickets 15 cents, 2 for 25 cents, 10 for $1. W. Q. MANSFIELD, Sec.
Winfield Courier, March 4, 1875.
Remember Prof. Hickok lectures before the Winfield Institute tomorrow night.
Winfield Courier, March 4, 1875.
Owing to the slim attendance last Monday night, Prof. Hickok’s lecture on “Ocean Currents,” was postponed until Friday (tomorrow) evening.
Winfield Courier, October 21, 1875.
We are pleased to hear that Prof. E. P. Hickok has consented to deliver his highly interesting and instructive lecture on “Ocean Currents” on Friday evening, October 19th, at the Courthouse, under the auspices of the Winfield Institute.
THE WINFIELD COURIER. CENTENNIAL ISSUE.
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
Cowley County was organized Feb. 28, 1870, by the order of Gov. Harvey on petition, and Winfield was designated as the temporary county seat. W. W. Andrews, of Winfield, G. H. Norton, of Creswell, S. F. Graham, of Dexter, were appointed County Commissioners, Feb. 28, 1870, and E. P. Hickok was appointed County Clerk at the same time by the same authority. The first meeting of the County Board was held March 23, 1870, at the house of W. W. Andrews, at which time W. W. Andrews was chosen chairman.
Background: Governor James Madison Harvey. Known as “Old Honesty,” Harvey was born in Monroe County, Virginia, September 21, 1833. He removed with his parents to Illinois, and received his education in the schools of that State. He later studied civil engineering. In 1854 he married Charlotte Cutter, of Adams County, Illinois. They came to Kansas in 1859, and located in Riley County. Mr. Harvey became a firm Anti-slavery man, and fought bravely in the war. He served as Captain of Company G, Tenth Kansas Volunteer Infantry, and took part in the Battle of Prairie Grove. Afterwards, he was in a strenuous campaign through Missouri, Arkansas, and the Indian Territory. He was also chosen Colonel of a volunteer regiment sent to repel Price, in his raid. In 1865 Captain Harvey was mustered out with his regiment. In the fall of 1865 he was elected to the Legislature, where he rendered valuable aid in untangling many of the problems left by the war, and the unsettled state of Kansas affairs. He was reelected by the Republicans against Thaddeus H. Walker, candidate of the Liberal Republicans. The Democrats put forward no candidate. In 1866 he was chosen to represent the Seventh District in the State Senate.
In the fall of 1869, James M. Harvey was elected as the Republican candidate for Governor. He was reelected to that office in 1873. Legislature of 1869, under Governor Harvey, was the first body to meet in the State Capitol, after the completion of its first wing, the east one. Before, all the official business had been conducted in a small row of buildings on Kansas Avenue, known as “State Row.”
In March, 1869, the first train on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad reached Topeka, and on the first of September, 1870, the Union Pacific Railroad reached Denver. This, of course, brought immense bands of emigrants to Kansas.
In 1870, the Labor Party organized. It held its first state convention in September of that year. A platform was determined on. Two of the “planks” were: two thousand dollars exempt from taxation, and the natural right to land. At this time, the farmers of Kansas were beginning to feel keenly the need of cooperation and protection. With the growing of agriculture and trade, came the demand for a grange, which was accordingly organized, in 1872. Many thousands of farmers joined the organization.
Harvey was elected United States Senator from Kansas, and served from February 2, 1874, to March 1877. He died on April 15, 1895. He was survived by four daughters and two sons.
The following is the first action taken at that meeting, and is the first official record in Cowley County. “County Commissioners, pursuant to a previous call, met at Winfield on the 23rd day of March, A. D. 1870, at Mr. Andrews’. Present—Andrews and Norton. County Clerk proceeded to divide the county into three townships, numbered 1, 2, and 3.
“No. 1 to include all that part of Cowley County laying north of a line running through the county east and west, touching the mouth of Little Dutch Creek, all north of Little Dutch to be included in said township.
“No. 2 to include all south of the mouth of Little Dutch, extending south to include E. P. Hickok’s claim, and to within ten miles of the mouth of Grouse Creek.
“No. 3 to include all south of E. P. Hickok’s claim on Walnut and the lower ten miles of the Grouse and the Arkansas to the State line.
“Election in township No. 1 to be held at the house of Edward Phillips, at the mouth of Rock creek. No. 2 at Winfield. No. 3 at Creswell.”
This Board of Commissioners ordered an election to be held May 2nd, 1870; at which time the permanent location of the county seat was voted upon, and a full set of county officers were also elected. At that election there were two places voted upon for county seat, to-wit: Winfield and Arkansas City. The former received 108 votes and the latter 55 votes, and the following officers were elected.
Commissioners: T. A. Blanchard, Winfield; Morgan Willett, Rock Creek; G. H. Norton, Creswell; H. C. Loomis, Winfield, County Clerk; John Devore, Creswell, Treasurer; E. P. Hickok, Winfield, District Clerk; T. B. Ross, Winfield, Probate Judge; W. E. Cook, Creswell, Recorder; W. G. Graham, Winfield, Coroner; F. A. Hunt, Rock Creek, Sheriff; F. S. Graham, Grouse Creek, Surveyor.
There was but one ticket in the field, and 163 was the total number of votes polled. These officers qualified and took possession of the respective offices May 21st, 1870.
T. H. Johnson was appointed County Attorney Sept. 5th, 1870, by W. R. Brown, at that time Judge of this, the 9th Judicial District, of which Cowley was a part.
July 6th, 1870, W. Q. Mansfield was appointed Deputy County Clerk; John Devore appointed J. P. Short Deputy Treasurer, and at the fall election Geo. B. Green was elected County Treasurer, but failed to give bond and qualify; consequently, John Devore held the office until July 2nd, 1872.
DISTRICT CLERKS.
E. P. HICKOK Nov. 8, 1870. Jan. 10, 1873.
JAMES KELLY Nov. 5, 1872. Jan. 10, 1875.
E. S. BEDILION Nov. 3, 1874.
SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION.
L. B. WALMSLEY Nov. 7, 1870. July 17, 1871.
A. S. BLANCHARD July 17, 1871. Sept. 4, 1871.
E. P. HICKOK Sept. 4, 1871. Jan. 7, 1872.
E. P. HICKOK Nov. 7, 1871. Jan. 11, 1873.
T. A. WILKINSON Nov. 5, 1872. Jan. 10, 1875.
T. A. WILKINSON Nov. 3, 1874.
The first political gathering held in the county took place at the log raising of the Old Log Store on the 1st day of April, 1870. It was called a Citizen’s Meeting to nominate candidates for the county officers to be elected May 2nd, 1870. It was the only full ticket voted for at that election, and of course all the nominees were elected. There were a few scattering votes cast for other individuals.
July 4th, 1870, was a great day for Winfield. The first celebration in the county of our national birth day was held under a large bower in the rear of the Old Log Store, and Prof. E. P. Hickok was the orator of the occasion.
[CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.]
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1876.
THE SISTERHOOD OF STATES, agreeable to a suggestion of ours made a few weeks ago, was represented by about fifty ladies on horse-back. This, without doubt, was the most interesting and attractive part of the procession. The ladies, be it said to their credit, without a single exception, rode well, although several of them had not been in a saddle more than once or twice for years. They managed their steeds with an easy grace, entirely surprising to that male portion of the lookers on, who, so vainly imagine that they alone can sit and guide a horse correctly. The States and Territories appeared in the order of their admission into the Union. The “original thirteen” led off, with New Hampshire represented by Mrs. Hickok.
Cowley County Democrat, Winfield, Kansas, Thursday, July 13, 1876.
HISTORY OF COWLEY COUNTY. WIRT W. WALTON.
Read at the Centennial Celebration, July 4th, 1876, at Winfield, Kansas.
The Winfield enterprise took form in January of 1870, as did that of Arkansas City. From the start the two parties interested in the two prospective towns were shaping events to secure the county seat of Cowley County whenever it should be organized. In February of 1870 a bill was introduced in the Senate of Kansas entitled “An Act to Organize the County of Cowley,” and making Creswell the county seat. As soon as the news arrived at Winfield, James H. Land, A. A. Jackson, and C. M. Wood traversed the county in three days and took the census of over six hundred population, and reported at Douglass, in Butler County (the nearest place where any officer could be found to administer an oath), on the 23rd of February.
At that time the necessary papers were made out and E. C. Manning took them to Topeka and presented them to the Governor, who thereupon issued the order organizing Cowley County, designating Winfield as the temporary county seat, and W. W. Andrews of Winfield, G. H. Norton of Creswell, and S. F. Graham of Dexter as county commissioners. This was made February 28, 1870. E. P. Hickok was appointed county clerk at the same time by the same authority. The first meeting of the county board was held March 23, 1870, at the house of W. W. Andrews, at which time W. W. Andrews was chosen chairman.
Their first official acts were the division of the county into three townships, viz, Rock, Winfield, and Creswell, and their issuing a call for an election to be held on the second day of May, 1870. This election was held for the purpose of choosing a permanent county seat and to elect a complete set of county officers. The result of that election was as follows: For county seat Winfield 108 and Arkansas City 55 votes. The officers elected were commissioners T. A. Blanchard, Morgan Willett, and G. H. Norton; county clerk, H. C. Loomis; Treasurer, John Devore; district clerk, E. P. Hickok; probate judge, T. B. Ross; register of deeds, W. E. Cook; sheriff, Frank Hunt; coroner, W. G. Graham; and surveyor, F. S. Graham. This ticket was elected without any opposition. Such a millennium for office seekers never occurred before, nor is likely to occur in this county again. On the 5th of September, W. R. Brown, Judge of the 9th judicial district (of which Cowley was a part), appointed T. H. Johnson county attorney. On July 6th Loomis appointed W. Q. Mansfield his deputy county clerk, and John Devore appointed J. P. Short deputy treasurer. At the fall election G. B. Green was elected treasurer, but failing to give bond, Devore held the office till 1872. The officers succeeding them will be given in the order of their respective terms, some of whom have been appointed, but the greater majority have been elected.
County commissioners have been T. A. Blanchard, G. H. Norton, and E. Simpson, Frank Cox, O. C. Smith, and J. D. Maurer; R. F. Burden, M. S. Roseberry, and John Manly, and the present incumbents, R. F. Burden, Wm. White, and W. M. Sleeth.
County Clerks—A. A. Jackson and M. G. Troup; Treasurers—G. B. Green, E. B. Kager, and T. R. Bryan; Probate Judge—T. B. Ross, L. H. Coon, T. H. Johnson, and H. D. Gans; Sheriff—J. M. Pattison, James Parker, and R. L. Walker; Register of Deeds—W. B. Smith, J. F. Paul, N. C. McCulloch, and E. P. Kinne; District Clerk, E. P. Hickok, James Kelly, E. S. Bedilion; Surveyor—H. L. Barker, D. A. Millington, M. Hemenway, and Wirt W. Walton; Coroners—H. D. Kellogg, G. P. Wagner, S. S. Moore, and J. Hedrick; Supt. of Pub. Inst., L. B. Wamsley, A. S. Blanchard, E. P. Hickok, and T. A. Wilkinson. Our representatives in the state legislature have been in 1871, Col. E. C. Manning; in 1872, Judge T. McIntire; in 1873, Capt. Jas. McDermott; in 1874, Rev. Wm. Martin; in 1875, Hon. Thos. R. Bryan; and in 1876, Hon. W. P. Hackney.
The first political gathering in the county took place at the raising of the “old log store” (now the Winfield Courier and Post Office) on the 1st day of April, 1870. This was a citizen’s meeting and was held to nominate candidates to be voted for on the 2nd day of May.
On the 13th day of June, 1870, the first coach arrived with the United States mail at Winfield. Previous to that time all mail matter was brought by private hands from Douglass and distributed among the settlers. There were no mail routes, roads, nor bridges up to this time. The people in the various localities amused themselves by taking sides with Winfield and Arkansas City in their county seat, and “Manning and Norton war.” They had nothing else to do but brag about the county, eat beans and dried apples, and draw on their friends in the east for more money. The land was not surveyed, hence they did not know where to make their improvements. The bitter local feeling that was engendered in those days has long since been a theme of the past.
Winfield Courier, August 24, 1876.
Sunday School Pic-Nic. There will be a Sunday School picnic near the Jarvis schoolhouse, on Silver Creek, above the Saunders crossing, on Friday, September 1st, at 10 o’clock a.m. Prof. Hickok and others, not connected with the school, are to be present. A general invitation is extended to the public.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1876.
For delegates to the Republican convention of the 88th Representative district: N. C. McCulloch, J. H. Land, G. S. Manser, J. S. Hunt, W. D. Roberts, Chas. Love, W. G. Graham, J. M. Baer, G. W. Arnold, E. G. Sheridan. Alternates: I. W. Randall, W. E. Christie, Perry, J. H. Curfman, A. B. Lemmon, Z. B. Myers, A. Howland, J. J. Plank, E. P. Hickok, and Thos. Dunn.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
Pursuant to a call of the committee of the 88th Representative District, the delegates to the representative convention met in the courthouse at Winfield on Saturday, September 16th, at 10 o’clock a.m. Capt. J. S. Hunt, of Winfield Township, was elected temporary chairman, and Chas. H. Eagin, of Rock Township, temporary secretary.
A motion to allow W. P. Hackney to vote as proxy for G. W. Arnold, principal, and E. P. Hickok, alternate, and to allow T. K. Johnston to vote as proxy for J. H. Land, principal, and W. E. Christie, alternate, was lost.
The oldest house in Winfield is the one immediately north of the stage barn, in block 108. It was built by E. C. Manning in January, 1870, and first occupied by himself and family as a claim house, on the 10th day of March, following.
The Winfield Town Company was organized January 13, 1870, “with power to lay out a town site upon the open prairie, east of the Walnut River and south of Dutch Creek, in Cowley County, Kansas.” E. C. Manning was its President; W. W. Andrews, Vice President; C. M. Wood, Treasurer; W. G. Graham, Secretary; and E. C. Manning, J. H. Land, A. A. Jackson, W. G. Graham, and J. C. Monforte, Directors.
The question of a name for the new town puzzled its fathers for several days. A minority wanted it called “Lagonda,” but the majority decided to honor Winfield Scott’s christened name. He was at that time the minister in charge of the Baptist church, in Leavenworth. Within the next four months, following the organization, forty acres of Manning’s claim was converted into lots, blocks, streets, and alleys. The old log store was built by Manning, which was occupied, in part, by Dr. Mansfield as a drug store, and by Baker and Manning with their goods. Soon Max Shoeb arrived, built a log cabin where Read’s bank now stands, and opened a blacksmith shop. On August 20th J. C. Fuller and D. A. Millington bought A. A. Jackson’s claim and proceeded, with Manning, to lay out that part of the town lying east of Main street. July 4, 1870, was a glorious day for Winfield. The first celebration in the county was held on that day, under an arbor in the rear of the old log store. Prof. E. P. Hickok was the orator of the occasion. From that time up to the present, Winfield has so rapidly increased in population that it is impossible, in this short sketch, to give even a synopsis of her growth; but I will endeavor, however, to name the first who engaged in the different branches of business.
1877.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1877.
Miss Emily Roberts will teach the school in the district south of Winfield, known as the Hickok district.
[WINFIELD ITEMS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1877.
A few citizens celebrated the 4th on Mr. Hickok’s farm.
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
Dedication. The dedication of the new Presbyterian Church on last Sunday was an occasion of great interest. The house was furnished with beautiful and substantial seats, the rostrum with desk and chairs of the most beautiful and appropriate style, and the aisles with carpets. Greenhouse plants and flowers and trailing vines arranged with taste added greatly to the enchantment of the scene. A large Oleander in full blossom was perhaps the most striking feature. There was a full choir, whose performance was excellent. About six hundred persons were seated comfortably and enjoyed the pleasing solemnity of the exercises. The statement of the board of trustees showed that the house had cost about eight thousand dollars, which was all paid up except about twenty-seven hundred dollars, and that some two hundred dollars more than that amount is pledged by citizens, the largest portion of which is immediately due and the balance due in six and twelve months, so the house may be considered as practically out of debt.
The exercises were conducted in a pleasing and impressive manner. The occasional sermon was delivered by the Rev. Dr. F. S. McCabe, of Topeka, which was listened to with marked attention. Rev. Berry, Rev. J. L. Rushbridge, Rev. C. J. Adams, Rev. E. P. Hickok, Rev. S. B. Fleming, of Arkansas City, Rev. J. C. Hill, of Michigan, and Rev. Patton, of Wellington, took part in the exercises of the day. Rev. J. E. Platter conducted the services in his usual graceful manner.
In the afternoon was held a conference meeting in which several clergymen delivered short addresses, and in the evening a sermon was delivered by Rev. J. C. Hill.
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1878.
J. Hoenscheidt is the architect employed by J. C. Fuller, M. L. Robinson, Jay Page, the Misses Aldrich, E. P. Hickok, C. Farringer, and others in the erection of their new residences. These residences will be built in modern style, to combine symmetry and beauty with convenience and stability, and will cost from two to seven thousand dollars each; hence the propriety of employing a first-class architect.
Winfield Courier, February 28, 1878.
Services at the M. E. Church next Sabbath. Rev. E. P. Hickok will preach at 11 a.m., and Rev. Silas Rawson at 7 p.m.
Winfield Courier, March 28, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.
E. P. Hickok to Sabina R. Hickok, part of n. e. 10 33 4, $200.
Winfield Courier, April 11, 1878.
E. P. Hickok has bought a block in Loomis’ addition and proposes to build a fine residence.
Winfield Courier, April 11, 1878.
Real Estate Transfers.
H. C. Loomis to E. P. Hickok, 1 block in 28 32 4, 3 acres, $500.
The Daily Winfield Courier, Saturday Morning, May 11, 1878.
[From the Oxford Independent.]
A number of people from our neighboring city of Winfield attended services at Oxford, last Sunday, among whom we noticed the familiar faces of Capt. McDermott, Mr. C. A. Bliss, and Rev. Hickok and their ladies, with several others, whose names are not now remembered.
Elder Rigby, of the Baptist Church, of Winfield, preached to the people of this place last Saturday evening; also Sunday morning and evening. And on Sunday at 2 o’clock, in the Arkansas River adjoining town, the ordinance of baptism was administered to those who desired to obey the Lord in that ordinance in a mode, the sufficiency of which is conceded by all religious denominations. Elder Rigby, though in poor health, is a zealous worker and a sound and logical reasoner.
Winfield Courier, June 6, 1878.
The young folks will hold their picnic four miles below town on the Walnut River in Rev. Hickok’s timber, Friday next.
[WALNUT VALLEY FAIR ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, July 4, 1878.
WINFIELD, KANSAS, June 24, 1878. Board met pursuant to adjournment at the office of Col. J. M. Alexander. Present: J. W. Millspaugh, President; Col. Alexander, Treasurer; E. E. Bacon, Secretary; and Messrs. E. P. Kinne and E. C. Manning, Directors.
Reading of the proceedings of last meeting was dispensed with.
The committee to prepare premium list submitted for consideration a printed list and recommended its adoption. It was then read, corrected, and adopted, whereupon the following named ladies and gentlemen were appointed superintendents of the various classes, to wit:
Class A - Horses - R. B. Pratt.
Class B - Cattle - L. Finley.
Class C - Sheep - John Stalter.
Class D - Swine - W. L. Mullen.
Class E - Poultry - ____ Bull.
Class F - Agricultural Implements - S. H. Myton.
Class G - Mechanical Arts - J. Hoenscheidt.
Class H - Farm Products - R. F. Burden.
Class I - Horticulture - S. S. Holloway.
Class J - Pomology - I. H. Bonsall.
Class K - Floral - Mrs. W. Q. Mansfield.
Class L - Fine Arts - Mrs. M. E. Davis.
Class M - Textile Fabrics - T. H. McLaughlin.
Class N - Plowing Matches - J. H. Werden.
Class O - Honey - E. P. Hickok.
Class P - Boys and Girls - J. E. Platter.
Class Q - Riding and Driving - W. H. Walker.
Class R - Speed - B. M. Terrill.
Class S - Fruits, etc. - Mrs. S. M. Fall.
On motion, A. J. Pyburn was appointed Chief Marshal.
On motion, R. L. Walker was appointed Chief of Police.
By motion the committee on grounds were instructed to close contract for the same that the committee on track might commence work.
The board then adjourned until called by the president. E. E. BACON, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.
A very pleasant party assembled at the residence of Mrs. E. P. Hickok, four miles south of town, on Tuesday evening last, and all enjoyed themselves as is usual at Mrs. Hickok’s parties.
Winfield Courier, August 8, 1878.
Rev. E. P. Hickok is building a fine barn on his block in Loomis’ addition.
Winfield Courier, August 29, 1878.
Miss Mattie Minnihan has been engaged to teach in the Hickok schoolhouse, three miles southeast of town, for a term of three months, commencing September 30. The scholars of that district may feel sure of having a pleasant, profitable term with Miss Minnihan as their instructor.
Winfield Courier, October 3, 1878.
Miss Mattie Minnihan began work Monday morning in the Hickok district, No. 43.
Winfield Courier, October 10, 1878.
MARRIED. Married at the residence of the bride’s father, Mr. A. C. Finney, on Thursday evening, October 3rd, by Rev. E. P. Hickok, Mr. S. M. Ford, of Kansas City, to Miss Minnie H. Finney, of Winfield. The wedding was a quiet one, and passed off in the usual manner, Mr. and Mrs. Hickok, Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, Mrs. Bixby, and Messrs. Suss and Seward being the only guests. The bride was attired in a dress of cream colored silk. Although Miss Finney has been with us but a short time, she has made many friends who will miss her bright face and pleasant manners. Mr. Ford, as a correspondent of the Kansas City Times, is known to all Kansas. He has made many visits to our little city during the past six months, and we were not surprised at his capturing one of our fairest young ladies. The happy pair started for their future home in Kansas City on Saturday morning, and the best wishes of the COURIER go with them.
Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.
Prof. E. P. Hickok conducted the services in the Presbyterian Church last Sunday.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 2, 1879.
The following is a list of new buildings erected in the city of Winfield since January 1, 1878, with the name of owner and cost of building.
E. P. Hickok, residence, stone: $900.
Winfield Courier, May 8, 1879.
Our young folks had a grand picnic last Saturday in the Hickok grove, on the Walnut, about three miles below town.
[WALNUT VALLEY FAIR ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, June 12, 1879.
At a meeting of the directors of the Walnut Valley Fair Association, at the office of Col. Alexander, last Thursday, it was decided to hold the fair October 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. The following appointments were made:
General Supt.: J. L. Horning.
Chief of Police: J. C. Roberts.
Chief Marshal: P. M. Waite.
CLASS SUPERINTENDENTS
A. R. B. Pratt.
B. P. B. Lee.
C. C. S. Smith.
D. Wm. Hodges.
E. J. F. Miller.
F. Jas. Berry.
G. J. Hoenscheidt.
H. J. Nixon.
I. S. S. Holloway.
J. A. J. Burrell.
K. Mrs. J. E. Platter.
L. Mrs. M. E. Davis.
M. T. H. McLaughlin.
N. J. H. Worden.
O. E. P. Hickok.
P. J. E. Platter.
Q. G. W. Prater.
R. W. P. Hackney.
S. S. M. Fall.
[THANKSGIVING IN WINFIELD.]
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1879.
Thanksgiving week, in Winfield, has been an unusually lively one. We have had “balls,” white and variegated, “surprises,” ministerial and immaterial, “drunks,” plain and gilt-edged, and “flirtations” ad lib. The grand ball of our colored citizens, at the Opera House, on Thanksgiving eve, was a very creditable affair. The local attendance was very large, and the felicities of the occasion were salubriously enhanced by the distinguished assistance of a brilliant coterie of belles and beaux from the neighboring village of Wichita. Nothing occurred to mar the festivities, except the efforts of some “poor white trash” to monopolize the round dances with the belles of the ball, to the great disgust of their escorts. They were quietly conducted to a “back seat,” however, and the “ball went on.”
Our city was visited on Wednesday by a trio of very nice-looking young ladies who had apparently just escaped from some village “sem.” or district school, and were determined to enjoy their brief vacation to the utmost. In the evening they serenaded some of their friends with fragments of old college airs, which “awakened fond remissness of the ancient memories of bye-gone days” in the breasts of the passersby. Such classic songs as “If I had a Peanut I’d give you the Shuck,” “Gathering up the Smells from the Shore,” etc., were gaily caroled forth, but when their sweet voices again united in that grand and solemn refrain, “Saw my Leg off, Short,” it was too much, and I sat down on the cold stone pavement, oh, so cold - and- and - wept!
The ordinance of baptism by immersion was administered by Rev. Cairns, at 8:30 Thanksgiving morning, at the usual place near the fair grounds, in the presence of a few people. There was but one candidate, a Mr. Johnson.
Union services were held at the Methodist church, at the regular morning hour, Rev. Platter officiating, assisted by Revs. Berry, Cairns, Hickok, and Hyden. It is long since I have listened to a sermon which exhibited so wide a range of reading and such brilliant thought as characterized this effort of Mr. Platter’s. While it dealt plainly with the evils, doctrinal and moral of the past and present, its author did not hesitate to grant meed of praise where it was righteously due, even though in so doing he was forced to speak in complimentary terms of an “infidel.” The publication of this sermon broadcast could not fail to do good. The Presbyterian choir united with the Methodist choir for the occasion, and under the leadership of Judge Buckman, furnished some very good music; in fact, quite superior to that usually accompanying religious services in Winfield. Mr. Chamberlain’s rendering of the baritone solo, “Father Almighty,” was as a Scotchman would say, “by the common,” and I judged very pleasing to the congregation.
The event of the day, however, in religious circles, was the “surprise” to Rev. Cairns, at the Baptist church in the evening. A large number of this gentleman’s friends (and few clergymen can boast so many) gathered at the church, and presented the good pastor with quite a large amount of provisions and a very respectable sum in cash. The evening was pleasantly passed in social converse, and in listening to some excellent instrumental music by Mr. Allen and Master Farringer, and at the close Mr. Cairns expressed his gratitude in the most hearty and becoming manner.
The day came to a close in social circles with a grand hop at Manning’s Hall. Seldom has Winfield beheld so large an assemblage of beauty well-adorned as that which graced the Opera House on this occasion. I had intended to compliment some of the toilets, but there were so many tasteful costumes, which might fairly come within the range of excellence, that a special mention would be invidious. Every appointment was in good form, and the party may be truthfully said to equal if it did not surpass the one of the previous evening.
Can anyone tell what Winfield’s civic head and the “war-horse of the stalwarts” were after, about church-time Thursday morning, when they were trying to get in at the window of that little building on Ninth avenue? I believe John Allen knows, for he watched the gentlemen very carefully, and seemed very willing to share in whatever spoil might be secured, even to the embracing of a “New Idea.”
I had not supposed so common a thing as a “cactus” would be considered of a local, until I saw mention of the one possessed by Mrs. Walters. I have not heard that one, but if it equals those which congregate nightly near my sleeping apartment, it is indeed a good one. Taking a stroll the other evening, I thought I heard a “cactus” (sing) which was way above par, but approaching cautiously with a view to capture, I discovered that the sounds emanated from my friend, Mr. Geo. Robinson, who was plaintively singing “a oad to the mune” as he meandered homeward.
The Rev. Mr. Cairns, at the last Union Temperance meeting, said there were good businessmen in Winfield, who were temperance men, and yet favored whiskey-selling because it was good for business; arguing that if the sale of spirituous liquors was stopped in Winfield, while being carried on in neighboring cities, much of our trade would be diverted to those points. Nice temperance men, who would rather endorse rum-selling, with all its evils to their neighbors and friends, than suffer a trifling reduction in the grand aggregate of trade. Good businessmen, who cannot understand that $50,000 annually expended for dry goods, clothing, or groceries would not be more likely to reach their coffers than when it goes into the insatiable maw of the whiskey interest. Sound financiers, these good temperance businessmen, who cannot see that the greater portion of their losses by bad debts, are caused by their customers paying their ready money for whiskey, and, so doing, are unable to pay their honest debts. The good brother should tell these good temperance men, that even if the saloons were closed up, there would still be, as there are now, the “drug stores,” and they could get their supply of whiskey just the same.
I notice, in this week’s COURIER, a well-digested article on the subject of immoral illustrated papers. A recent step in this matter, by the Canadian government, will bring a blush to the cheek of every good American who reads it. It seems that such publications as Police Gazettes are forbidden circulation through the mails in the Dominion, on account of their immoral character, but in spite of the Canadian postmasters, some few copies are received in the mails from this country, and delivered. The Dominion authorities requested the U. S. Government to prevent the forwarding of this class of matter through the mails, whereupon Postmaster-General Key at once issued an order that such publications, addressed to the Dominion of Canada, be considered unmailable and treated accordingly.
Think of it. You may not use the United States mail to send these missiles of filth into the homes of the Dominion; but the department freely grants you the privilege of circulating these and kindred documents in your own country. It is a matter of humiliation, amid our thanksgiving, that any nation should have the opportunity to teach the United States such a lesson of morality.
[NEW YEAR RECEPTIONS.]
Winfield Courier, January 1, 1880.
Mrs. Brown, on Elm Row, assisted by Mrs. Dr. Black and Mrs. E. P. Hickok.
[LADIES’ LIBRARY ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
On January 17th, the ladies who met for the purpose of organizing a public reading room and library, received reports from the four ward committees who had been canvassing the city. The city had obtained 63 lady members at $3 per year and received $175.00 in books, $77.75 in cash, 10 papers (daily, etc.), 1 clock and bracket, 2 window shades, and several pictures. The southwest ward has been but partially canvassed. A committee on constitution was appointed, consisting of Mrs. Van Doren, Mrs. Dr. Davis, Mrs. Wallis, Mrs. Trimble, and Mrs. Holloway. This committee is to report at next meeting.
Mrs. Earnest, Mrs. Hickok and Mr. Beach were made a committee on procuring a suitable room, to report at next meeting.
Meeting adjourned to meet at 4 p.m., Jan. 22nd, at the Baptist church. Everybody interested in this important enterprise is earnestly requested to be present at this meeting. MARY A. BRYANT, Sec’y pro tem.
[TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE TO THOSE IN WANT IN WINFIELD.]
Winfield Courier, December 16, 1880.
A meeting was held in the council rooms last Thursday evening to consider means for temporary assistance to those in want in our city.
John B. Lynn was made chairman, and James Kelly, secretary.
By a vote of the meeting the city was divided into four wards by Main street and Ninth avenue, and committees were constituted as follows.
Northeast ward: Mesdames T. R. Bryan, Dr. Graham, and Rev. J. Cairns.
Northwest ward: Mesdames McDonald, McMullen, and Miss Service.
Southwest ward: Mesdames Spotswood and Jillson, and Miss Mary R. Stewart.
Southeast ward: Mesdames Hickok, Silver, and Swain.
Committees to solicit contributions were appointed as follows.
Northeast: Mesdames Holloway, Linticum, and Troup.
Northwest: Mesdames Short and Dr. Davis and Mayor Lynn.
Southwest: Mesdames Earnest and Landers, and Mr. R. D. Jillson.
Southeast: Mrs. Rigby, Miss L. Graham, and Mr. W. A. Freeman.
Lynn & Loose tendered their front basement for a storage room for the committees.
The committees were requested to meet in the council rooms on Tuesday, Dec. 14, at 2:30 p.m. to form plans of operation.
[TEACHERS’ MEETING.]
Winfield Courier, December 23, 1880.
The meeting of teachers, Saturday, was well attended. Professor Trimble had charge of the class in algebra and physiology. Superintendent Story had the class in geometry. The exercises were in every way commendable. The opportunity of “going higher” in these studies will be improved by many of our teachers. The query is, why don’t all of them join in this work? Without question physiology will be added to the list of subjects for the examination of teachers, while algebra may become one of those necessary for a first grade certificate. Be this as it may, the teachers who have gone into this course of study and work will grow, while many who do not will get the dry rot. The recitation in primary reading, conducted by Miss Mary Bryant, gave the teachers a clear idea of the best method of beginning reading. The word, the phonic, the sentence, and the alphabet methods can be combined and followed with success. The debate on the compulsory educational law was conducted by Messrs. Hickok and Trimble. The fact was brought out that this law is occasionally the means of getting boys and girls into school who would otherwise be out all the time. The next meeting will be January 15, 1881.
Teachers present: Messrs. Trimble, Gridley, Hickok, Corson, Hutchins, Thompson, Wilson, Beaumont, Armstrong, McKinley and Dickinson; Mrs. Will B. Caton, Misses Bryant, Klingman, Cook, Aldrich, Melville, Dickie, Freeland, Davis, Hunt, Bowman, Kelly, Rounds, Frederick, Dobyns, and McKinley. Several other teachers were in town, but were too busy to attend the meeting. The program for the January session will be review and multiplication in algebra, the first book in geometry, and circulation in physiology. Teachers take hold of this work now.
Winfield Courier, December 30, 1880.
With the earliest settlers of Winfield, came Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, since which time their hospitable home has been a favorite with our society people.
At their reception last evening an unusually happy and enjoyable time was had. Mr. and Mrs. Millington, assisted by their daughters, Misses Kate and Jessie, were truly at home in the manner and method of receiving their friends, with a smile and a pleasant word for all. No wonder the hours passed so quickly by. All restraint and formality was laid aside for an evening of genuine good feeling and pleasure.
Among those present were Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. N. L. Rigby, Mr. and Mrs. McDonald, Mr. and Mrs. Hackney, Mr. and Mrs. Spotswood, Mr. and Mrs. Gene Baird, Mr. and Mrs. Bedilion, Mr. and Mrs. Moffitt, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. McMullen, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Dr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. Hickok, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Troup, Mr. and Mrs. Scovill, Mr. and Mrs. Lundy, Mr. and Mrs. Lemmon, Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Short, Mr. and Mrs. Kretsinger, Mr. and Mrs. Shreves, Mr. and Mrs. Roberts, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Williams, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Millington, Mrs. Huston, Miss McCommon, Wirt W. Walton, and J. R. Conklin.
Refreshments were served to the satisfaction and praise of all, and not until a late hour came the “good nights” and the departure of friends for their homes, each of whom will not soon forget the pleasant evening with Mr. and Mrs. Millington. Daily Telegram.
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1881.
Col. McMullen and lady entertained a number of friends at their home last week. The elegant parlors were comfortably filled, and we, at least, passed a pleasant evening. Those present were: Mayor and Mrs. Lynn, Rev. and Mrs. N. L. Rigby, Prof. and Mrs. Hickok, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. Loose, Mr. and Mrs. John Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Carruthers, Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Scovill, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Kretsinger, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Green, Mr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. Kinne, Mrs. Buck and son, of Emporia, and Mr. Harris, of Bushnell, Illinois.
[COUNTY TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, February 3, 1881.
The Teachers’s Association met in the high school building Saturday week. Present: Trimble, Hickok, Jewett, Limerick, Bower, Carson, Story; Mrs. W. B. Caton, Misses Melville, Dickie, Bartlett, Kelly, Davis, Cook, West, Frederick, and Bowman.
The work in algebra and physiology was very satisfactory. The time for geometry was too limited for much work.
The next meeting will be held February 12th, when the subjects of division in algebra, respiration in physiology, and the second book in geometry will be reviewed.
Messrs. Trimble, Hickok and Story, and Misses Cook and Melville, reported the following petition and resolutions.
To the honorable members of the Kansas Legislature:
Gentlemen: The undersigned citizens of Cowley County, Kansas, most respectfully ask your attention to the following suggested changes in the school law. We respectfully ask that such changes be made, should they seem in your judgment desirable for the good of the public schools of the state.
1st: That a state certificate and no less than three years work in the public schools be made prerequisite qualifications to the county superintendency.
2nd: That the county superintendent be required to give his entire time to the schools of the county.
3rd: That the township system of schools be substituted for our present district system.
4th: That high grade certificates be clothed with a degree of permanency attainable upon successful work in the school room.
5th: That the annual school meeting be changed from August to June, or to an early day in July.
The third and fifth recommendations drew out considerable debate, but were approved by a majority of the teachers present.
Petitions with these recommendations will be circulated for signatures and then will be sent to the Solons at Topeka.
Winfield Courier, February 10, 1881.
CRYSTAL WEDDING. Mr. and Mrs. Shreves celebrated the 15th anniversary of their marriage by inviting their friends to attend their crystal wedding on Tuesday evening, February 8th. Accordingly a merry party filled the omnibuses and proceeded to their residence, one mile east of town, and spent an evening of unalloyed pleasure. Mrs. Shreves, assisted by her sisters, Mrs. Cummings and Mrs. Wm. Shreves, entertained their guests in a graceful and pleasant manner. Although invitation cards announced no presents, a few of the most intimate friends presented some choice little articles in remembrance of the occasion. The following were present: Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Butler, Miss Graham, Mr. and Mrs. Kinne, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Spotswood, Dr. and Mrs. Van Doren, Mr. and Mrs. Earnest, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Rev. and Mrs. Hyden, Rev. and Mrs. Platter, Mrs. Houston, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Wilson, Rev. and Mrs. Borchers, Mr. and Mrs. Meech, Mr. and Mrs. Millhouse, Mr. and Mrs. S. S. Linn, Mr. and Mrs. Snyder, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Mr. Hendricks, and John Roberts.
Winfield Courier, February 10, 1881.
At the last regular meeting of Winfield Lodge No. 20, I. O. G. T., the following officers were installed for the ensuing term commencing February 7th, 1881.
W. C. T.: T. H. Soward; W. V. T.: Mrs. Henry Rowland; W. S.: J. C. Rowland; W. F. S.: Mrs. M. L. Jewell; W. T.: Professor E. P. Hickok; W. C.: Rev. J. Cairns; W. G.: Miss Mary Cairns; W. Sen.: H. H. Siverd; Asst. S.: Miss Ella Freeland; I. M.: Miss Mary Clark; I. H. S.: Miss Mary Cochran; L. H. S.: Miss Libbie Smith; P. W. C. T.: Professor E. T. Trimble; L. D.: Frank W. Finch.
Winfield Courier, March 24, 1881.
The Republicans of the First Ward of the city met at the courthouse on Saturday evening, the 19th. Called to order by W. J. Wilson of the Ward committee: D. A. Millington was chosen chairman and S. M. Jarvis secretary. J. E. Platter was nominated for member of the school board by acclamation. A ballot was taken for councilman, resulting in E. P. Hickok 34, C. A. Bliss 12. Mr. Hickok was declared the nominee. The chairman being authorized by a vote of the meeting to appoint a ward committee of three, appointed M. G. Troup, W. J. Wilson, and R. R. Conklin such committee.
The following 13 delegates were elected to represent the ward in the city convention to meet on the 26th: D. A. Millington, W. P. Hackney, E. S. Bedilion, T. M. Bryan, Jacob Nixon, James Bethel, J. W. Crane, S. M. Jarvis, J. E. Conklin, J. L. M. Hill, H. D. Gans, E. P. Greer, W. J. Wilson.
Winfield Courier, April 7, 1881.
The teachers’ meeting Saturday was especially interesting. Professor Phelps, of Arkansas City, conducted the exercises in physiology, and Professor Trimble in algebra. Work in botany was mapped out, the lesson for the next meeting, April 30, being “leaves.” As the new school law classes physiology in the first grade studies, those teachers who have followed the county work have done well. Botany is a delightful study and teachers can succeed well with this science in the spring. As a means of furnishing teachers with object lessons, botany has no equal. Teachers present: Professors Trimble, Phelps, Gridley, Hickok, and Mrs. Caton, Misses Cook, Melville, Bartlett, Aldrich, Kelly, Frederick, and Nawman.
[THE SOCIAL ENTERTAINMENT OF THE SEASON.]
Winfield Courier, April 7, 1881.
On last Thursday evening was gathered in the magnificent salons of M. L. Robinson one of the largest parties which have assembled in Winfield this past season. The honors of the occasion were conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Robinson and Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Spotswood in the most graceful and pleasing manner, making each of the guests feel delighted and happy. A new departure was made in the hour for reception which we cannot too highly commend, that of substituting 7 o’clock for the late hours which usually prevail, but the habits of some were so confirmed that they could not get around until nine o’clock. The banquet was excellent beyond our power of description. Nothing was wanting to render it perfect in all its appointments. At a reasonable hour the guests retired, expressing the warmest thanks to their kind hostesses and hosts for the pleasures of the evening. The following are the names of the guests as we now remember them.
Miss Nettie McCoy, Mrs. Huston, Mrs. S. H. Myton, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Eastman, Mrs. Ticer, Mr. M. G. Hodges, Mr. C. A. Bliss, Mr. W. C. Robinson, Mr. W. A. Smith, Mr. W. J. Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Loose, Mrs. Herrington, Mr. and Mrs. Van Doren, Mr. and Mrs. S. S. Linn, Mr. and Mrs. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. Lemmon, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Platter, Mr. and Mrs. J. Harden, Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Hackney, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Black, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Hodges, Mr. and Mrs. Hickok, Mr. and Mrs. Conklin, Mr. and Mrs. T. R. Bryan, Mr. and Mrs. Dever, Mr. and Mrs. Bedilion, Mr. and Mrs. Holmes, Mr. and Mrs. Barclay, Mrs. W. F. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. Allen, Mr. and Mrs. Doane, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. Horning, Mr. and Mrs. Troup, Mr. and Mrs. F. Williams, Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Baird, Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. McDonald, and Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Read.
[ELECTION RETURNS.]
Winfield Courier, April 7, 1881.
The result of the city election of last Tuesday is given in the table below. Names of candidates on the Republican ticket are in Roman, Citizens ticket in small caps, and on both in caps.
SKIPPED ALL THIS BREAKDOWN...
FOR MAYOR: M. G. TROUP AND J. B. LYNN.
TROUP WON: MAJORITY 28.
FOR CITY ATTORNEY: L. H. WEBB, O. M. SEWARD.
SEWARD WON: MAJORITY 27.
FOR CITY TREASURER: T. R. BRYAN.
BRYAN WON: MAJORITY 483.
FOR TREASURER, SCHOOL BOARD: S. C. SMITH, J. D. PRYOR.
PRYOR WON: MAJORITY 17.
FOR JUSTICE OF PEACE: J. H. KINNEY, W. E. TANSEY.
TANSEY WON: MAJORITY 84.
FOR POLICE JUDGE: JAMES KELLY, W. E. TANSEY.
TANSEY WON: THEY SHOWED MAJORITY OF 1...CONFUSING!
FOR CONSTABLES: H. H. SIVERD, J. H. FINCH, J. T. QUARLES, B. McFADDEN, E. P. HICKOK.
SIVERD WON: MAJORITY 58; AND
J. T. QUARLES WON: MAJORITY 106.
FOR COUNCILMEN: JOHN MOFFITT, M. L. READ, A. H. DOANE.
JOHN MOFFITT WON: MAJORITY 57; AND
M. L. READ WON: MAJORITY 22.
FOR SCHOOL BOARD: J. E. PLATTER, N. L. RIGBY, J. L. HORNING, AND E. P. KINNE.
N. L. RIGBY WON: MAJORITY 3; AND
E. P. KINNE WON: MAJORITY 4.
[PROGRAM FOR JULY FOURTH CELEBRATION AT WINFIELD OUTLINED.]
Winfield Courier, June 9, 1881.
The following are the arrangements for the celebration of the 4th of July in Winfield.
1. We appoint the ministers of Winfield to secure speakers.
2. We invite the Mayor and city council of Winfield, the militia of the city, and the soldiers of the late war to join with us to make a big day for Winfield and the county.
3. We appoint J. O. Johnson, T. B. Myers, and A. P. Johnson to secure the services of the city band.
4. We appoint J. L. Horning, G. S. Manser, H. S. Silver, E. P. Hickok, D. L. Kretsinger, N. T. Snyder, and Albert Doane to obtain funds to defray the expenses of the celebration and have control of the fire works.
5. W. O. Johnson and the vice president of the Sunday school association of Winfield will act as marshals for the city Sunday schools.
6. We appoint Mrs. J. E. Platter, Mrs. Holloway, and Mrs. Trimble as a committee to select 38 ladies to ride in the procession and to represent the different states of the Union, and to select the same number of young men as their assistants, the whole number to ride in double file, two ladies in front, and then two gentlemen, and so on in this order.
7. We appoint Mrs. Caton and Miss Melville to select and drill a company of boys to march in uniform with appropriate banners as the Cold water army.
8. We appoint Mrs. E. P. Hickok to select five little girls from each Sunday school in the city, to march in procession as a representation of Kansas Past and Present.
9. We appoint G. H. Buckman as chairman to select and drill singers for the occasion.
10. We appoint Mr. Blair chorister to drill the Sunday school children and to select such assistants as he may desire.
11. We appoint Samuel Davis to read the declaration of Independence.
12. We appoint A. H. Green marshal of the day with power to select his own assistants.
13. We request the Vice Presidents of Sunday school districts, and of each township, and the several Superintendents of the schools to get out their entire forces and all others who will take part with them.
14. We request the District Vice President to march at the head of the district organization and the Vice President of each township at the head of his township organization.
15. We request all the delegations to be in the city by 10 a.m. sharp, and the Vice Presidents to report their arrival to County Superintendent S. S. Holloway, and form into line under his direction.
16. The order and line of march will in due time be reported.
S. S. HOLLOWAY, Chairman Committee. A. C. JOHNSON, Secretary.
[MORE DETAILS RE FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION.]
Winfield Courier, June 16, 1881.
RECAP: Celebration under management and control of the County Sunday School Association. Five minutes to be given each district Sunday school vice president to represent his district. Outlined obtaining services of the Winfield Coronet band. Outlined 38 men and 38 men to ride in procession on horseback with appropriate costume to represent the 38 states. Thirty little boys in costume under the management of Miss Melville and Mrs. Caton to march as representatives of “The Cold Water Army.”
Fifty little girls from the different Sunday schools of Winfield, under the management of Mr. Hickok, to be appropriately dressed with mottoes, badges, banners, etc., to ride in a wagon drawn by four horses as representatives of Kansas Past and Kansas Present.
Further, 200 or more of the little ones from the infant classes of Winfield Sunday schools, under the control of their different teachers, to ride in wagons with banners and badges to represent the “Army of the little innocents of Cowley County.”
Best singers, under management of G. H. Buckman, to sing patriotic songs. Also, little Sunday School children, under management of Mr. Bair, assisted by Mr. Jewell and Miss McDonald, to sing for the people.
Declaration of Independence to be read by Samuel Davis [a promising young man of Winfield, just home from college].
Procession to include mayor, city council, county officers, newspaper editors, city/county church ministers, County Sunday School Association officers, etc. Sunday School delegations from the various townships to report on arrival to S. S. Holloway, county superintendent. City schools to be under the management of W. O. Johnson. General Green to act as marshal of the day: forming the procession and the order of marching.
Celebration to be held in the Riverside Park west of the Santa Fe depot, where will be found an abundance of shade, ample room for teams, and an abundance of good water for man and beast. The speakers’ stand consists of one solid stone, donated by Wm. Moore, Winfield citizen. There will be plenty of seats provided so all may be comfortable and happy. There was a postscript telling everyone to “bring an abundant supply of good things to eat.”
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
Two or three hundred of our colored children and citizens will march as Freemen in the Fourth Celebration procession.
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
St. John’s Battery, under the command of Capt. Haight, will perform at Riverside Park on the 4th.
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
Not less than 5,000 will be in attendance at Riverside Park on the 4th.
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
The Ponca Indians, in Indian costume, are expected at Riverside Park on the 4th, to give an exhibition of Indian customs and manners.
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
Large delegations of Sunday School children, white and colored, and other citizens from Wellington, Wichita, and Arkansas City, will swell the numbers on the 4th.
Winfield Courier, June 23, 1881.
Married. Thos. E. Cochran and Miss Emma Davis were married by Rev. Hickok Sunday. We wish the happy couple much joy.
Winfield Courier, August 25, 1881.
Mrs. Manley and son from near St. Joseph, Missouri, are visiting at Prof. Hickok’s. She is his sister.
[BIG WEDDING: FRED C. HUNT AND SARAH HODGES.]
Winfield Courier, October 27, 1881.
Wednesday at 12 o’clock, Mr. Fred C. Hunt and Miss Sarah Hodges were united in marriage at the residence of the bride’s father, in this city, Rev. Father Kelly officiating. The assemblage was one of the largest ever gathered to witness a marriage ceremony in this city. The bridal party left on the afternoon train for a short trip in the east. The following is a list of presents from their friends.
Bedroom set, bride’s father, W. J. Hodges.
Silver spoons, Mrs. W. J. Hodges.
Silver fruit knife, May Hodges.
Silver knives and forks, Charley Hodges.
Large parlor lamp, Willie Hodges.
Handsome chair, Capt. and Mrs. Hunt.
Silver and cut glass berry dish, Miss Anna Hunt and Etta Robinson.
Oil paintings, from groom.
Silver cake stand, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson.
Set fruit plates, from Mr. and Mrs. Garvey and Mr. and Mrs. Spotswood.
Handsome clock, Mr. and Mrs. D. Severy.
Individual salt cellars, Allie Klingman.
Pair silver goblets, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller.
Majolica salad dish, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok.
Silver butter dish with plates, W. C. and Ivan Robinson.
Silver jewel case, Miss Ida McDonald, Anna Scothorn, Jennie Hane,
and Jessie Millington.
Silver and glass vase with hand painting, Dr. Wilson and Mrs. Bullock.
Silver and cut glass bouquet holder, Mr. and Mrs. Randall.
Silver napkin rings, W. J. Wilson and W. A. Smith.
Card receiver and bouquet holder, Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Bahntge.
Silver pickle dish, Mrs. C. A. Bliss.
Silver and cut glass fruit dish, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Robinson.
Silver butter knife and pickle fork, Miss A. and Nellie Aldrich.
Silver butter dish, Miss Bird Godfrey, of Wellington.
Individual castor, R. W. Dever.
Darned net apron, Miss Kate Millington, Las Vegas, N. M.
Handsome book, “Beautiful Ferns,” Henry Goldsmith.
Pair dining room pictures, Mr. and Mrs. Mann.
Panel picture, C. C. Harris.
Silver and cut glass flower vase, Mr. and Mrs. Ed P. Greer.
From the COURIER COMPANY, a life subscription to the Winfield COURIER,
conditionally.
A handsome present from Miss McCoy.
Will Robinson couldn’t be present at the wedding, but sent his regrets; and hoped “if they
must encounter troubles, they be little ones.”
Cowley County Courant, December 29, 1881.
At a regular meeting of the Masons at their lodge last Tuesday evening, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year. J. C. Hunt, W. M.; A. P. Johnson, S. W.; Lou Zenor, J. W.; J. C. McMullen, Treas.; E. T. Trimble, Secretary; C. C. Black, S. D.; F. C. Hunt, J. D.; Jas. Harden, S. S.; E. P. Hickok, J. S.; Rev. James Cairns, Chaplain; S. E. Burger, Tyler.
[TEACHERS DIRECTORY: 1881-1882.]
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
Prof. E. P. Hickok, District 43: $40.00 monthly salary.
Cowley County Courant, January 19, 1882.
Married, January 12th, 1882, by Rev. E. P. Hickok, Mr. Charles C. Doane and Miss Mary Cochran, all of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, January 19, 1882.
MARRIED. Married by Rev. E. P. Hickok, January 12, 1882, Mr. Charles C. Doane and Miss Mary Cochran, all of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, January 19, 1882.
EDITORS COURIER: Please announce that the Teachers’ Association of the Central Division will meet in Winfield school building, Saturday, January 28th, at 10 o’clock a.m.
The following programme indicates the teachers of the Central Division, and the work assigned them for the next meeting.
1. Manners and Morale: How Best Taught. F. H. Burton, Anna Hardin, and A. P. Cochran.
2. How to Study. S. A. Smith, S. P. King, and Emma Elliott.
3. Public Spelling. E. P. Hickok, A. D. Stuber, and Celina Bliss.
4. Lessons on the Use of the Globe. R. S. White, W. M. Coe, and Ella Grimes.
5. How to Study Literature in the Common School. M. H. Markcum, John Bower, and Nettie Wanner.
6. Spelling Classes—their Uses and Abuses. A. J. Brothers, Jennie R. Lowry, Fannie Harden, and Laura Elliott.
7. Ventilation. A. P. Cochran, Ella Little, Lillie M. Gregory, and Frank Akers.
It is hoped that the meeting will be largely attended by the intelligent, energetic teachers of this and the adjoining divisions. ELLA FREELAND, Secretary. T. J. RUDE, President.
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1882.
The ladies are beginning to swap plants this spring-like weather, and may be seen laden with all sorts of floral beauties. One of the finest collections of house plants we have seen is that of Mrs. J. L. Horning. It consists of some very choice varieties of plants, most of which are in full bloom. Other beautiful collections are those of Mrs. Beeney, Mrs. Platter, and Mrs. Hickok. Many others have excellent success in that line.
Cowley County Courant, April 6, 1882.
Married, at the Frazee House, in this city, Sunday, April 2nd, 1882, William H. Johnson and Marian A. Foster, Rev. E. P. Hickok officiating, all of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
MARRIED. April 2, 1882, by Rev. E. P. Hickok, at the Frazee House, Mr. William H. Johnson and Miss Marian A. Foster, all of Winfield.
[WALNUT TOWNSHIP CORRESPONDENT: “ERASTUS.”]
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
E. P. Hickok has a field of wheat 80 rods wide and one mile long that is just magnificent. Joel Mack also has a fine piece of wheat.
[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]
Cowley County Courant, April 20, 1882.
Petition of E. P. Hickok and ninety-seven others, asking that the Council cause to be removed the powder house in the south part of Winfield, between Main and Millington streets, was read, and on motion of Mr. McMullen was granted, and the Attorney was instructed to prepare an ordinance providing for its removal to as great a distance from the city as the general safety demands, and the laws of the state will permit.
Cowley County Courant, June 29, 1882.
NEW WHEAT. First boom for the crop of 1882. The first car of wheat from the crop of 1882 was loaded at the A. T. & S. F. depot today. This wheat was raised on the farm of Prof. Hickok, three miles south of this city on the Walnut by Beaumont Bros., is of the Little May variety, grade No. 2, and weighs 62 lbs. to the bushel. This car is from a crop of eighty acres and will average twenty-five bushels to the acre. Was purchased at one dollar per bushel, by Bartlett & Co., grain dealers of this city, and shipped to Messrs. H. Latshaw & Co., Kansas City. This is the first car for Cowley County, and also the first for the state of Kansas. Tally one for Cowley County.
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1882.
Wheat Crop in 1882. First marketed from Cowley County and from Kansas, grown on Prof. Hickok’s farm three miles southeast of Winfield by Beaumont Bros., 3,000 bushels from one hundred acres, and threshed by O. A. Pratt in 3½ days. The first car was loaded last Friday for Bartlett & Co., of this city, for one dollar per bushel. The whole delivered before Wednesday of this week. Lowest test 61 lbs. per bushel. Varieties: 14 acres volunteer, 11 bushels per acre; 30 acres Little May, 19 bushels per acre; and 56 acres Fultz at a little more than 40 bushels per acre. This wheat was heavily pastured all winter and until late in the spring.
Related article: shows that there will be no July 4th celebration in Winfield...
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1882.
No Celebration at Winfield. The Executive Committee on 4th of July Celebration, after due consideration, has resolved not to celebrate at Winfield this year, and all preparations are declared off. . . . By order of the committee. J. P. SHORT, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1882.
Winfield’s Celebration. A number of our public spirited citizens concluded that it would not do to let the Fourth pass without the citizens of Winfield and vicinity celebrating in some way, the 100th anniversary of the Nation’s birth, so they got up a picnic at Riverside Park and arranged a program which proved a success, and drew a very large crowd with well-filled baskets from the city and surrounding country. The forenoon was passed in a very agreeable manner with music, singing, and various amusements. At 1 o’clock, after all had feasted sumptuously, the afternoon exercises began with music by a quartette selection from Winfield’s best musical talent, consisting of Messrs. Buckman and Snow and Mrs. Jewell and Swain, with Miss McCoy as instrumentalist, after which was the opening prayer by Rev. Cairns. The Declaration of Independence was read in a very able manner by Mr. Will Robinson. Samuel E. Davis then made his first appearance before the public as a speaker in a very eloquent and poetical oration. Sam astonished the audience by his pleasing manners and the ability with which he handled the subject of our Country’s Greatness, and it was a production that is not only a credit and an honor to himself, but one of which everyone may feel proud, coming as it did from a young man who has grown up with Cowley County, and whom we all feel is one of “our boys.” He was followed by Judges McDonald and Tipton, who delivered very sound and flowery addresses, overflowing with eloquence and true sentiment. These gentlemen are too well known throughout Cowley as able orators to make further comment necessary. After more music came the most interesting feature of the program to the mothers—the “baby show.” Three of our best looking old bachelors had been selected as judges: Messrs. Will Robinson, S. C. Smith, and Henry Goldsmith. They were to award the $3.00 premium to the prettiest cherub, $2.00 to the next, and $1.00 to the third. The boys gave the mothers a “fair and impartial” chance, and did their duty manfully, though their faces at times resembled a full bloom rose. A decision was finally reached and the following happy mothers received the premiums. Mrs. David Wilson, first premium; Mrs. Rev. Lahr, second; and Mrs. Thorpe, third. There were several foot races, boating, and many sources of amusement afforded those present. Taking the affair as a whole, it was a decided success, and the originators are entitled to much credit for the patriotic spirit shown in getting up the picnic.
Winfield Courier, July 13, 1882.
In our notice last week of Fourth of July gatherings, we omitted to mention the picnic in Prof. Hickok’s grove south of town. It was a neighborhood affair. Prof. Hickok and Rev. Henderson gave vent to some pent up patriotism on the occasion, and Messrs. Crow, Barricklow, and Burton discoursed some good martial music. The exercises were interspersed by boat riding, swinging, etc. All enjoyed themselves, and especially, the many good things they had to eat on the occasion.
Winfield Courier, August 17, 1882.
RECAP OF ARTICLE POINTING OUT IMPROVEMENTS IN WINFIELD.
Prof. Hickok keeps steadily improving his block of ground, and the trees now begin to make a fine show. Around the entire block is a row of Catalpas, which have made a wonderful growth this season. The Professor has been very successful in getting a stand of blue grass.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1882.
Mrs. Hickok left on the Santa Fe last Thursday afternoon, Sept. 7, for a few week’s visit with relatives and friends in Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois.
[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1882.
Petition of W. C. Robinson, E. P. Hickok, and others asking for an appropriation of $25 a month for a public reading room, was postponed until the next regular meeting of the Council.
Winfield Courier, October 26, 1882.
Mrs. E. P. Hickok has returned from a six week’s visit to Creston, Iowa. She has had a pleasant time and has improved in the general tone of her health.
[WALNUT TOWNSHIP CORRESPONDENT: “SPECTATOR.”]
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
Mr. E. P. Hickok & Beaumont have purchased a herd of 2 year old steers and are keeping them on the farm of Mr. Hickok.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
Miss Maggie Burrows of Osceola, Iowa, spent Thanksgiving week in our city, the guest of Mrs. E. P. Hickok. She leaves with pleasant memories of her visit and a favorable impression of Winfield.
[FLORAL, RICHLAND TOWNSHIP, CORRESPONDENT: “D. O. GOOD.”]
Winfield Courier, February 8, 1883.
The Baptists at Floral have just closed a successful meeting under the labors of Revs. Hickok and McEwen. They expect to build a stone house for worship soon; have about $700 subscribed.
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1883.
Baptist Church. Preaching at the Baptist Church next Sabbath morning and evening. In the evening the Deacons will be ordained. The following order will be observed.
Sermon: Rev. Dr. Bicknell. Charge to the church: Rev. Prof. Hickok. Charge to the Deacons: Rev. M. Wood. Prayer and hand of fellowship by the pastor, Rev. J. Cairns.
[METHODIST CONFERENCE.]
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1883.
Conference Notes. The beautiful flowers which were grouped around the pulpit came from Mrs. E. P. Hickok’s fine collection.
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1883.
Mr. J. Hickok, a brother of Prof. Hickok, stopped over to see him Monday. He is arranging to start a general merchandise store in Harper County.
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
Married by Rev. E. P. Hickok, of this city, on May 13th, at the residence of the bride’s parents in Walnut Township, Frank A. Henderson and Lucinda Dunn.
[MILLINGTON SURPRISED.]
Winfield Courier, May 24, 1883.
A COMPLETE SURPRISE. Sixty-five ladies and gentlemen of the best citizens of Winfield joined in a plot last Wednesday, May 16th, to surprise D. A. Millington, editor of the Winfield COURIER, and his wife at their residence, on the thirty-fifth anniversary of their marriage, and were completely successful. It was raining quite briskly all the evening with no prospect of a “let-up.” Between 8 and 9 o’clock we were quietly looking over our late exchanges; our wife was busy in household affairs in a gray dress in which she felt some delicacy about receiving company, when we found our house suddenly taken possession of by J. C. Fuller and lady, J. Wade McDonald, Mrs. J. E. Platter, C. A. Bliss, Dr. C. C. Green and lady, J. P. Short, Geo. Rembaugh and lady, A. T. Spotswood, Miss Jennie Hane, E. S. Torrance, Mrs. John Lowry, Mrs. I. L. Millington, E. P. Hickok and lady, and others. The greater portion of the party lived more distant and were still waiting for the rain to slack up.
Ourself and wife were corralled in one corner while arrangements were made, then J. Wade McDonald, as orator for the party, commenced a neat and flattering speech to us in which he complimented us of having been one of the first settlers, of having been identified with all the movements which have made Winfield and Cowley County rich, prosperous, and happy; our wife and daughters, with having contributed much to the life and pleasure of our social and literary circles, and said that our citizens had seized this thirty-fifty anniversary of our marriage to express to us in this way their warm appreciation of us and ours.
The folding doors were then thrown open, disclosing two very richly upholstered, beautiful, and costly chairs in which ourself and wife were led and seated, which chairs the speaker formally presented to us on behalf of the citizens as a token of their warm feelings toward us. We attempted to express our thanks but utterly failed. We were “all broke up,” with something rising from our heart to our throat which choked utterance.
Then amid a gay and pleasant conversation, the visitors produced a spread of delicacies which they had brought with them, served them in a beautiful set of glass dishes, a present from Mr. A. T. Spotswood, beautified by fresh and charming bouquets of flowers presented by Mrs. Lowry and Mrs. Hickok; and in due time, they bid us good bye.
From the bottom of our heart we thank them for these evidences of their kindness and warm friendship, and assure them and our citizens generally that whatever shortcomings we may exhibit, we shall ever hold in grateful remembrance this and many other evidences of their kind partiality to us and ours.
[AKRON, FAIRVIEW TOWNSHIP, CORRESPONDENT: “AUDUBON.”]
Winfield Courier, May 24, 1883.
Rev. Hickok, of Winfield, filled Rev. Graham’s pulpit Sabbath. He preached a very interesting discourse to a full house.
Winfield Courier, May 31, 1883.
A council recently convened at Arkansas City for the purpose of recognizing the Baptist Church of that place. It was organized by the election of Rev. James Cairns, moderator, and Rev. E. P. Hickok, clerk. Rev. A. S. Merryfield preached the sermon; Rev. Mr. Harper of Wichita gave the charge to the church; Rev. Cairns gave the prayer of recognition; Rev. Hickok read the scriptures; Revs. Mr. Drury, Fleming, and Vay also took part. The church starts out with twenty-two members.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 13, 1883.
Rev. E. P. Hickok will preach morning and evening at the U. P. Church Sunday, June 17th, usual hours.
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1883.
Col. Loomis sold a block of ground to Mr. John Eddy, from Beardstown, Illinois, last Monday. Mr. Eddy is a gentleman of wealth and will probably put heavy improvements on the property. He is an old friend of M. L. Read. The block purchased lies just south of Mr. Hickok’s on Millington Street.
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1883.
Married by Rev. E. P. Hickok, of Winfield, June 6th, 1883, at the residence of the bride’s parents, James C. McClelland and Miss Julia Bovee of New Salem.
[NEW SALEM CORRESPONDENT: “AHAZ.”]
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1883.
New Salem—Another Wedding. MARRIED. The evening of May 6th, 1883, was a scene of pleasure to all who witnessed the nuptial ceremonies of James McClelland to Miss Julia Bovee, at the residence of the bride’s father, Daniel Bovee, near New Salem, Kansas, Rev. Hickok officiating. After the ceremony was concluded, the party were shown out to the dining room, where had been arranged in a most tasteful manner, an elegant and sumptuous repast consisting of the delicacies usual on such occasions, in superabundance; and full justice was done it by the merry party. May the newly married couple live a long life together; may “the roses of happiness ever bloom in the garden of their destiny, and may there be no thorns in their pathway through life, but may it be strewn with buds and blossoms of unalloyed pleasure.”
[NEW SALEM CORRESPONDENT: “OLIVIA.”]
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1883.
MARRIED. Miss Julia Bovee is no more. On Wednesday, the 6th, Mr. McClelland claimed her as his fair bride and future housekeeper, and by her presence, and in a thousand countless ways, she will brighten his home and cheer his heart when he comes in weary with life’s battles. They have gone to his home near Cedarvale. Rev. Hickok tied the knot. May they find life’s voyage fair sailing, and when their barque is anchored, may they land on the shore where sorrow and disappointment are unknown. Happiness here and hereafter is my wish for them.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1883.
Rev. Hickok filled the Baptist pulpit Sunday, during the convalescence of Rev. Cairns.
Winfield Courier, August 16, 1883.
A Card. Never was a surprise more complete than that which occurred at the Baptist Parsonage on last Wednesday evening. While many of the church and congregation were at the prayer meeting, others were at the Parsonage arranging a beautiful dinner and tea set of china, with many other things of use and beauty. We were congratulating ourselves that the thirty-fifth anniversary of our wedding had passed off so quietly. When we arrived home from prayer-meeting, the house was literally filled with members of the church and congregation. Prof. Hickok and Judge Soward did the literary part to perfection, after which a sumptuous supper was served. To all participating, we return our sincere thanks for this expression of kindness and appreciation. [Names not given.]
[Note: Courier failed to show the names of Baptist minister, Rev. J. Cairns and wife.]
Winfield Courier, August 23, 1883.
Ordination. A Committee met with the Baptist Church of Winfield last Wednesday for the purpose of examining Prof. Trimble with a view to his ordination to the work of the ministry. After a thorough examination, the committee unanimously voted to ordain, in the following order. Sermon, Rev. Harper, Wichita; ordination prayer, Rev. Cairns, Winfield; charge to the candidate, Rev. Merrifield, Newton; hand of fellowship, Rev. Pennington, El Dorado; Prof. Hickok, Rev. Rice of Augusta, Rev. Clark and Rev. Ferguson, with brethren Culture and Holmes, also took part. Benediction by Rev. Trimble.
REV. PENNINGTON, Moderator. REV. RICE, Clerk.
[COWLEY COUNTY FAIR.]
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1883.
Best Macrame lace, Mrs. Hickok, city, 1st premium.
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1883.
Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller entertained a large number of friends at their elegant home Friday evening. It was a pleasant company and the hospitality was highly enjoyed. Among those present were Mayor & Mrs. Emerson, Mr. & Mrs. Bahntge, Mr. & Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. & Mrs. Spotswood, Mr. & Mrs. Hickok, Mr. & Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. & Mrs. E. S. Bliss, Mr. & Mrs. Mann, Mr. & Mrs. W. S. Wilson, Mr. & Mrs. Millington, Mr. & Mrs. Silliman, Mr. & Mrs. Ordway, Mr. & Mrs. Tomlin, Mr. & Mrs. Col. Whiting, Mr. & Mrs. Geo. W. Miller, Mr. & Mrs. Greer, Mr. & Mrs. Allen, Mr. & Mrs. J. C. McMullen, Mr. & Mrs. Dr. Green, Mr. & Mrs. Brown, Mr. & Mrs. H. G. Fuller, Mr. & Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. & Mrs. Branham. Also, Mr. Elbert Bliss, Mrs. Albro, Mrs. Doane, Mrs. Foos, Mrs. Perkins, Mrs. Ripley, of Burlington, Iowa, Mrs. Judge Buck of Emporia. These evening gatherings are becoming quite a feature in our social life, and nowhere are they more heartily enjoyed than at Mr. Fuller’s.
[W. E. PENN WRITES FROM TEXAS.]
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1884.
For the COURIER: From Texas. Now that I am at home and the smoke of the battlefield has cleared away, and I have had my Christmas dinner, I take a calm and unprejudiced view of Winfield and the people. I should take Winfield to be as healthful as any of the Western towns or cities, and more so than many of them. I did not discover any local cause for sickness. Judging from the six weeks I was there, and what I heard from some of the citizens, I should say that you have a delightful climate, except the hot winds in the summer and now and then a blizzard in the winter.
Judging from what I saw on the streets on Saturdays especially, I take it the county round about the town is being settled up with good, substantial, frugal citizens. I did not see but two men under the influence of Mr. Winslow’s maddening tonic. One man, not a woman, I thought, had recently kissed Mr. Winslow, or his breath was a little perfumed with the tonic. It certainly is bad enough to kiss a nice, decent man, or to permit yourself to be kissed by one, but to kiss old Winslow is infinitely worse than to kiss a pig pen. I did not hear but three oaths. Two of them were uttered by grown men, and the other by a little girl about four or five years old. If she is not checked pretty soon, it will prove her eternal ruin. One dark night one of your good citizens, but I don’t think he belonged to any church, made a little mistake. Stepping up behind me not far from the Post Office, he said: “Say, I’ve got a bottle of old rye; let us go in and take a little.” At this moment the light from a lantern flashed upon the scene, and I said, “You are mistaken in your man, sir,” which he had now discovered, whereupon he put up a job of running that was really amusing to look upon. How far he ran and when and where took up, I cannot say.
Have never been among a people I learned to like better than the people of Winfield after I had been there about three weeks. I can truthfully say that I never had such a time to get a meeting started. The Baptists seemed ice-clad and the sinners iron-clad. But how changed the scene when we got acquainted. All the while I could not blame the people because there are so many frauds of every kind, preachers and evangelists, as well as others traveling over the country, that people are bound to protect themselves from their often well laid plans. Judging from an insulting note I received while in Winfield, some people had an idea that I was after money, and I take this occasion to say that money was never mentioned by the Pastor, Bro. Cairns, or myself during the correspondence relative to my going to Winfield, and I certainly never mentioned it myself while in the town, while there nearly six weeks. One brother handed me three dollars and a country brother sent me five dollars, and the night I left Bro. Bliss handed me $10 and said that something more, he thought, would be made up, and I learn that something more has been done, but how much I do not know. The members of the church and congregation contributed $25 to aid in building a house of worship in my town, and Miss Lucy Cairns raised $16, and Miss Sola Farringer $5, and Pleasant Cookson, V. R. Bartlett, J. S. Mann, Rev. E. P. Hickok and Mrs. S. R. Hickok contributed $5 each. Miss Edith Stone, Charlie Dever, E. T. Rogers, B. K. Stalkup, Miss Nettie Case, Josiah E. Wilson, and John W. Soward agreed to raise, or pay $5 each by the first of March for the same purpose, making in all for the church $106.
If my life and health is spared, I hope to visit Winfield some more, for I think it a good place, with a number of the best people I ever knew. I know that my Baptist brethren have had a pretty hard struggle in building their very handsome house of worship, but as soon as they get a good breath they must add at least four rooms to their parsonage.
I have told my people here that Winfield has four of the handsomest church buildings I have ever seen outside of a large city. The capital invested in drinking saloons here is worth five times as much as all the church buildings put together. I am trying to have one nice church building here, which will inspire others to do the same. W. E. PENN.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1884.
Rev. E. P. Hickok will preach in the Walnut Valley Church next Sunday morning, and at the Star Valley schoolhouse in the afternoon.
[OBITUARY: Mrs. Cynthia A. Ferguson.]
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1884.
OBITUARY NOTICE. Died. Near Winfield, Cowley County, Kansas, December 31, 1883, at 12 p.m., Mrs. Cynthia A., wife of the Rev. Solomon Ferguson, aged 61 years, 11 months, and 5 days. Mrs. Ferguson was born in Bartholomew County, Indiana. She moved with her parent, the Rev. James McEwan, when quite young, to Decatur County, where in October 1838 she was married to Solomon Ferguson, by whom she had ten children, two sons and eight daughters. Two daughters died in infancy; the others are left, with the bereaved husband, to mourn her loss—all members of the church. She was converted in 1843, and united with the Milford Salem Baptist Church, where she remained a member until September, 1847, when she moved to Fremont, Iowa, where she became a consistent member of Salem, now Fremont, Baptist Church. While in this church her husband was ordained a minister of the gospel, where in his arduous self-denying labors, he found in her an uncomplaining, self-denying helpmate. They moved to Cowley in the spring of 1871, and united with the Winfield Baptist Church, where she then became a member. She has remained a faithful, earnest, consistent member, beloved by all who knew her. A great light has gone out in that neighborhood. With the last moments of the passing year, she breathed her last on earth, only to wake in the brightness of heaven. She died as dies the ocean wave along the shore, without a ripple, quiet and triumphant, as only the Christian can die. For a year her health has been failing, the immediate cause of death being paralysis. In addition to her husband and children, she leaves twenty-one grandchildren. It was a most affecting sight when they gathered around her to take their last farewell.
Her funeral was attended by Prof. E. P. Hickok, her former pastor, and Rev. J. Cairns, of this city, The latter preached the funeral sermon from first Thessalonians, 4th chapter, 14th verse, when Prof. Hickok made some very appropriate remarks, to a large and deeply affected audience. Seldom have we seen so much genuine sorrow; but our loss is her eternal gain.
FRATER.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
Rev. J. Cairns assisted last Sunday in the dedication of the new Baptist Church at Elk Falls. His pulpit in this city was filled in his absence by Rev. E. P. Hickok.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1884.
For sale cheap, or will trade for young stock. A French Norman and Morgan Stallion, four years old last spring. Took the first premium at the county fair when a colt.
E. P. HICKOK, Winfield.
[WINFIELD BOOMS.]
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1884.
Prof. Hickok will erect immediately a fine residence on his South Loomis Street block. The Professor has been steadily improving this place until the trees, shrubs, and blue grass make a fine show. He has a row of catalpas, of several years growth, around the entire block.
Just across the street from Prof. Hickok’s, Mr. H. N. Jarvis, who came from Denver last fall, has about completed a $3,000 residence, is sowing grasses, and is planting many varieties of trees. He will have one of the valuable homes of the city.
[BAPTIST SEWING CIRCLE, ARKANSAS CITY, ENTERTAINS WINFIELD.]
Arkansas City Republican, April 26, 1884.
The Baptist Sewing Circle of Arkansas City, this week, issued invitations to persons at Winfield and at home, to a social gathering to be held yesterday, at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. N. T. Snyder. Many, both from Winfield and at home, responded to the invitation.
From the former were Rev. Cairns and wife; Mr. Johnson and wife; E. H. Bliss and wife; Mr. Hickok and wife; Mr. Gilbert and wife; Mr. Hunt and wife; Mr. Silliman and wife; Mrs. Collins, Mrs. Hendricks, Mrs. Mann, Mrs. Branham, Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Wait, Mrs. Shearer, Mrs. Albright, Mrs. Herpich, Mrs. Capt. Whiting, Mrs. Will Whiting, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Dressy, Mrs. Phenix; Misses C. Bliss and Tyner.
The following were from this city: Mr. Stacy Matlack and wife; Mr. Geo. Cunningham and wife; Mr. Wyckoff and wife; Mr. Allen Ayers and wife; Mr. H. P. Standley and wife; Mr. C. W. Coombs and wife; Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Clevinger, Mrs. Klapf, Mrs. Landes, Mrs. C. T. Atkinson, Mrs. Loveland, Mrs. Hilliard, Mrs. T. C. Bird, Mrs. C. C. Hollister, Mrs. B. Goff, Mrs. Cypher, Mrs. H. W. Stewart, Mrs. Taylor, Miss Taylor, Miss Chapin, Miss Blaine, Miss Fitch, Miss Anna Hunt, Miss Jennie Upton, Mrs. Lent, Rev. J. O. Campbell, Rev. Wood and wife. Twelve came from Winfield, in the bus, and the remainder in carriages. They expressed themselves as very much pleased with the appearance of our city. At one o’clock, a delicious “lap-a-mince,” consisting of dessert, cake, and ice cream was served. The guests are under obligations to Mr. and Mrs. Snyder for a very enjoyable time. The receipts were about $25.00, which will be placed in the general fund for building the new Baptist Church in this city.
The editor of this paper regrets that school duties forbade his attendance, but trusts that dame fortune may yet be kind enough to grant him the acquaintance of so many clever and cultured people.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1884.
FROM EXCHANGE: ARKANSAS CITY REPUBLICAN.
The Baptist Sewing Circle of Arkansas City, this week, issued invitations to persons at Winfield and at home, to a social gathering to be held Friday, at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. N. T. Snyder. Many, both from Winfield and at home, responded to the invitation. From Winfield were: Rev. Cairns and wife, Mr. Johnson and wife, E. H. Bliss and wife, Mr. Johnson and wife, E. H. Bliss and wife, Mr. Hickok and wife, Mr. Gilbert and wife, Mr. Hunt and wife, Mr. Silliman and wife, Mrs. Collins, Mrs. Hendricks, Mrs. Mann, Mrs. Branham, Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Waite, Mrs. Shearer, Mrs. Albright, Mrs. Herpich, Mrs. Capt. Whiting, Mrs. Will Whiting, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Dressy, Mrs. Phoenix, Misses C. Bliss and Tyner. Twelve came from Winfield in the bus, and the remainder in carriages. They expressed themselves as very much pleased with the appearance of our city.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1884.
Sam Gilbert and wife, Mrs. Capt. Hunt, Mrs. A. P. Johnson, Mrs. Branham, and Mr. and Mrs. Hickok visited the Indian school in the Territory last week.
[CHURCHES.]
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1884.
Rev. J. Cairns conducted the dedicatory services of the new Baptist Church at Cherryvale, last Sunday, and his place in this city was filled by Prof. Hickok.
Winfield Courier, June 5, 1884.
Prof. E. P. Hickok has left in our office a bunch of blue grass raised in the grounds of his residence, which forever silences the croaker who says this in no blue grass country. It is four feet four inches high and the heads loaded with seed. The seed was brought from Kentucky. Cowley takes a back seat in nothing.
Winfield Courier, June 26, 1884.
Mrs. E. P. Hickok left Tuesday evening for Ottawa to attend the Inter-State Sunday School Assembly.
Winfield Courier, July 10, 1884.
Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss and Mrs. E. P. Hickok have returned from the Ottawa Sunday School Assembly. Mrs. Hickok passed the Chautauqua Normal Course and received a diploma. She takes great interest in all matters pertaining to church and Sunday School work.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 13, 1884.
Prof. E. P. Hickok, of Winfield, will preach in Highland Hall next Sunday morning at 11 o’clock.
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1884.
Woman’s Relief Corps. The Woman’s Relief corps, No. 39, was organized in Winfield on Monday, the 8th of September, by electing the following officers.
President, Mrs. E. P. Hickok.
Senior Vice President, Mrs. J. S. Hunt.
Junior Vice President, Mrs. George Crippen.
Secretary, Mrs. Rev. Kelly.
Treasurer, Mrs. E. B. Dalton.
Chaplain, Mrs. J. H. Finch.
National Inspector, Mrs. Bates.
Conductor, Mrs. W. H. Shearer.
Guard, Mrs. T. B. Myers.
They were installed by order of the Deputy President, by Commander C. E. Steuven, of Post No. 85, G. A. R.
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1884.
Prof. E. P. Hickok got in Tuesday evening from a trip among the western counties. He will go back in a month with a team, to improve his “claim” in Clark County. Jas. A. Cairns will accompany him and cast his lot on a portion of Uncle Sam’s domain.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1884.
The Woman’s Relief Corps of this city elected the following officers at its regular meeting yesterday afternoon: Mrs. E. P. Hickok, President; Mrs. J. S. Hunt, S. V. P.; Mrs. Geo. Crippen, J. V. P.; Mrs. Sam’l Dalton, Secretary; Mrs. Shearer, Conductor; Mrs. Dr. Pickens, Treasurer; Mrs. J. H. Finch, Chaplain; Mrs. Dr. Wells, Guard.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1884.
Society. A very pleasant entertainment was given by Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, at their splendid residence in this city, on Thursday evening, December 10th. About sixty to seventy guests were present, among whom we remember by name the following.
Rev. and Mrs. W. R. Kirkwood, Prof. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Schuler, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Read, Mr. and Mrs. J. L. Horning, Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Spotswood, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Buckman, Dr. and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. W. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Ordway, Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Harter, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. L. M. Williams, Dr. and Mrs. W. T. Wright, Mr. and Mrs. O. Branham, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. Fred C. Hunt, Dr. and Mrs. C. S. Van Doren, Mr. and Mrs. H. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mrs. Frank Williams of Wichita, Mrs. J. H. Bullen, Mrs. W. H. Albro, Mrs. Whitney, Mrs. Arthur Bangs, Miss Nettie McCoy, Miss Anna McCoy, Mr. W. H. Smith, Mr. Lew Brown, and Mr. W. C. Robinson.
Notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, made up of rain, mud, snow, and cold, the guests enjoyed themselves to the utmost, and after partaking of a magnificent supper, music, and mirth, the guests separated with warm thanks to their host and hostess, who had afforded them so much pleasure, and with the aid of Arthur Bangs, most of them, we presume, found their own domiciles in due time.
Winfield Courier, December 18, 1884.
The Masonic order held an election of officers Tuesday evening. The following persons were elected for the ensuing year. A. P. Johnson, W. M.; F. C. Hunt, S. W.; S. L. Gilbert, J. W; W. G. Graham, Treasurer; L. D. Zenor, Secretary; E. P. Hickok, chaplain; John Arrowsmith, S. D.; J. S. Mann, J. D.; W. W. Limbocker, S. S.; W. A. Freeman, J. S.; H. H. Siverd, Tyler.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 8, 1885.
Mr. Chas. Messenger, of Burden, and Miss Maggie C. Seabridge, of this city, were married on Wednesday last, by Rev. E. P. Hickok. Mr. Messenger is one of the sturdy farmers of the county and has won a prize in Miss Seabridge.
Looks like Hickok moved to Protection, Comanche County...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 4, 1885.
Prof. E. P. Hickok’s activity is showing itself in his new Comanche County abode, according to the Protection Echo.
“Prof. Hickok has had ample experience in the land business, and is well posted in regard to the pre-emption laws. You will always find him ready and willing to give any information on any point of law that he may be able to explain. The Professor is one of those accomplished men who never charge for information that he may be able to give. If you want any information, don’t hesitate to ask him, you will always find that he has a willing manner in answering.”
The Professor is also preaching regularly to the people of Protection and the Echo speaks highly of his sermons.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 2, 1885.
The popularity of Hon. Geo. W. Bain, Kentucky’s great orator, in Winfield was magnificently attested in the immense audience that assembled in the Opera House Tuesday to listen to his lecture. “Boys and Girls, Nice and Naughty, or Pendulum of Life.” Every chair was occupied—as large and enthusiastic audience as ever greeted any entertainment in this city. The Courier Cornet Band was out, and captivated all with the beautiful music, on the street and in the hall. This band never fails to elicit enthusiastic commendation from all at its every appearance. Mesdames Hunt, Soward, Crippen, and Dalton, of the Woman’s Relief Corps, under whose auspices the lecture was given, and Judge Soward and Capt. Hunt occupied the rostrum, and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, president of the Corps, introduced the lecturer. For an hour and a half those present were held captive by Mr. Bain’s wonderful magnetism and eloquence.
It was a grand lecture throughout, whose beauty can only be glanced at in such a gist as this. Mirth bubbled up all through it as a relief to the weight of truth and facts. The Woman’s Relief Corps did a splendid thing in affording our people this treat, and were rewarded appreciably. They netted about $125.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 9, 1885.
Cowley County celebrated the Fourth everywhere.
The pleasantest celebration was had by some of our young folks, entrancing Misses Nellie Cole, Leota Gary, Sarah Gay, Sarah Bass, Hattie Stolp, Gertrude McMullen, Ida Johnston, Lizzie McDonald, and Hattie Andrews; Messrs. H. E. Kibbe, George Schuler, F. F. Leland, B. W. Matlack, Amos Snowhill, Lacey Tomlin, Frank Robinson, Addison Brown, and Charley Dever, who packed their baskets and hammocks, etc., and hied down the river to Prof. Hickok’s farm and spent the day under the branching oaks, on a pretty blue grass lawn, amid the festive chiggers and balmy breezes.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 30, 1885.
Evening Picnic. A jolly party of young folks, embracing Misses Leota Gary, Nellie Cole, Mollie Brooks, Anna Hunt, and Ida Johnston; and Messrs. James Lorton, George Schuler, Addison Brown, and J. R. Brooks drove down to Prof. Hickok’s farm, five miles down the Walnut, last evening, accompanied by broad smiles, full baskets, lemons, ice, etc. The grove, on the bank of the river, with a beautiful mat of blue grass and large, branching elms, was delightful: as lovely a place as can be found for a picnic party. A fascinating supper and comfortable hammocks were spread, and a very happy evening spent. The festive chigger seemed to have gone off to some other health resort, and the sharp mosquito had lost his tune.
[PROTECTION, COMANCHE COUNTY, TOWN COMPANY.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 13, 1885.
Some Winfield People. 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.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 13, 1885.
Arkansas City’s feminine population was well represented in Winfield today. Eighteen of her Woman’s Relief Corps were up for a picnic with the Corps of this city. The trains were inconvenient, and they drove up. Arkansas City has had no rain, and they started with big picnic expectations. The rain here made our beautiful Riverside Park too damp to receive the party. The visitors were taken to the Brettun, and dined, as the guests of our Corps. Capt. Nipp, always perfectly at home as a “ladies’ man,” decoyed our modest reporter into the Brettun parlors, before this array of ladies. The Captain’s encouraging whispers and the pleasant reception given, were big cards in our composure. We noted the following visitors: Mrs. J. Q. Ashton, president of Arkansas City’s Corps; Mrs. S. Mansfield, senior vice-president; Mrs. E. Taylor, junior vice; Mrs. J. Cooper, secretary; Mrs. R. J. Hubbard, treasurer; Mrs. May Daniels, conductor; Mesdames S. A. Smith, H. Blubaugh, S. H. Davis, H. M. Guthrie, A. R. Randall, E. H. Bishop, L. H. Rarick, M. S. Jones, H. R. Hopps, A. E. Maidt, and Miss Sadie Pickering. They are all ladies of good appearance, intelligence, and zeal “just such as enter into every good cause. Our corps, led by its officers, Mrs. E. P. Hickok, president; Mrs. Samuel Dalton, secretary, Mrs. W. B. Caton, and others, were busy entertaining. A meeting at the G. A. R. Hall, this afternoon, was addressed by Judge Soward, and a source of much profit and pleasure. Such visits are most acceptable. The visitors returned this evening.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 24, 1885.
Prof. E. P. Hickok came in from Protection, Wednesday. He hadn’t been home for three months. He is elated over the grand prospects of Protection and Comanche County.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 24, 1885.
A happy little picnic party went down to Prof. Hickok’s grove Friday, accompanied by various culinary delicacies, hammocks, etc., remaining till 9 o’clock, and returning under the silvery moon. The party was composed of Misses Ida Johnston, Nellie Rodgers, and Bessie Handy, and Messrs. George Schuler, Addison Brown, and A. F. Hopkins. There couldn’t be a more delightful way to spend an evening during this charming weather.
The Marriage of Mr. Ezra H. Nixon and Miss Jessie Millington Thursday Night.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 15, 1885.
Included in the guest list: Mrs. E. P. Hickok.
Gifts included the following: From Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Mrs. J. P. Short, and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, bouquet of cut flowers.
Also included in list of gifts: Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Pryor and Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, silver berry bowl and spoon.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 17, 1885.
Pearl Party. One of the pleasantest parties of the season assembled at the hospitable home of Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Hunt last Saturday evening to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of their wedding. The spacious rooms were well filled and the host and hostess were everywhere present with their careful attentions which, seconded by Miss Anna, made the enjoyment complete. During the evening the Rev. Mr. Reider was brought forward and in a neat and appropriate speech presented to the host and hostess a beautiful set of silverware as a testimonial of the high appreciation of the contributors for the recipients, accompanied by a card with the compliments of the following: Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Cooper, Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Keck, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Mrs. Whitney, Mrs. McClellan, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Dr. and Mrs. T. H. Elder, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Shearer, Mr. and Mrs. N. J. Young, Rev. and Mrs. Reider, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Schuler, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Silliman, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Soward, Mr. and Mrs. Col. Whiting, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Brown, Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Albro, Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Troup, Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. D. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. G. L. Rinker, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Dalton, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Johnston, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mann, Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Crane, Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Silver, Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hendricks, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. McDermott, Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Arment, Mr. and Mrs. G. S. Manser, Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Handy, Mr. and Mrs. C. Collins, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Pickens, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McGraw, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Friend, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Crippen, Mr. and Mrs. G. C. Wallace, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Carson, Dr. and Mrs. W. T. Wright, Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Austin. This silver tea set embraced cake basket, berry dish, six teaspoons, and sugar spoon. Dr. and Mrs. Geo Emerson, pearl card case. Mr. and Mrs. F. C. Hunt, silver fruit dish.
Capt. Hunt responded as happily as the emotions of this surprise would permit.
A magnificent collation was placed before the guests, which was highly enjoyed, and after music and other entertainments, the party dispersed with many thanks to their entertainers for the pleasures of the evening. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Wallis, Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Silver, Mr. and Mrs. John Keck, Mr. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Silliman, Mr. and Mrs. Col. Whiting, Mr. and Mrs. R. H. Handy, Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Carson, Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Austin, Mr. and Mrs. G. C. Wallace, Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Arment, Dr. and Mrs. W. T. Wright, Mrs. McClellan, Mrs. Whitney, Sr., and Mrs. A. E. Baird, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Schuler, Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Shearer, Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Soward, Rev. and Mrs. J. H. Reider, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. G. S. Manser, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Brown, Mr. and Mrs. M. G. Troup, Mr. and Mrs. James McDermott, Mr. and Mrs. Jno. Crane, Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Hendricks, Mr. and Mrs. D. A. Millington, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Dr. and Mrs. T. H. Elder, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. McRaw, Mr. and Mrs. Elbert Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller, Dr. and Mrs. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. C. Collins, Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Bliss, Mrs. J. A. Cooper, Mr. and Mrs. F. C. Hunt.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.
Prof. and Mrs. E. P. Hickok came home Monday from Protection.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
Mrs. E. P. Hickok returned from the snow-bound regions of the west Saturday. She hoped to get back in time for the Brown-Walrath wedding, but failed. Her compliments were presented today with a handsome set of silver spoons.
PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS OF EARLY DAY SETTLERS.
C. M. Wood’s Story Continued.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
Young people were quite scarce during the first winter of these settlements, there only being three young ladies in the whole neighborhood—Emma and Hattie Ross, daughters of Judge T. B. Ross, and Julia Monforte, daughter of Capt. J. C. Monforte, who came into the settlement some time in November, 1869. I think at least we found them here when my wife and I came back from Cottonwood Falls in November. Dr. W. G. Graham helped them to select and locate three good claims about three miles up Timber Creek. The family consisted of the Captain, his wife, two sons, and two daughters. The two sons being of age took claims adjoining that of their father and held onto them for some years, but hard times and disappointment drove them to part with them. The Captain held on to his claim, worked diligently in connection with his sons and from year to year improved it until it is now one of the most valuable farms in the county and is owned by Alvin and J. C. Monforte, Jr.
When I first made the acquaintance of the Monforte family, I was up the creek one day on some business (I cannot recollect what now), and found them encamped in the timber on the Captain’s claim. It was a cold winter day and I recollect that they were not at all used to such a life, having come from the City of Buffalo, New York. The Captain and his wife were then getting along in years. The Captain’s head being as white as snow, it looked to me as if he had made a wrong movement for one so far along in life, and I think I so expressed myself to him. He said that he had been a sea Captain, but that he now found himself with grown children, and that he had come west to fix them so that they would be able to take care of themselves. Julia and her little sister looked so delicate I recollect well how I pitied them there as they shivered with the cold. But with the determination of a person who will take such a task, the family have lived on from year to year and by perseverance and industry, are all in comfortable circumstances. Will and J. C. Monforte still carry on the farm and take care of the old folks, who are now too old to work much. Julia married Sid Cure, a thrifty farmer and an old soldier, who now lives on his claim in Walnut township. Hattie married a Mr. Wilson, who came here a few years since from Scotland, and bought one of the best farms in the same neighborhood where they still reside. He is a quiet, thrifty farmer, and she is making him a good wife and helpmate.
Later on came one Mr. Hill, the husband of another one of the Captain’s daughters. He also took a claim nearby and remained a year or so, having much sickness in his family, and being so unfortunate as to lose a little girl. They got discouraged, sold out, and left the country, since which time I have lost sight of them. I recollect well that my wife and I attended the funeral of Mr. and Mrs. Hill’s child, at their claim, where the services were conducted by the Rev. E. P. Hickok, another early settler, which I may speak of more fully at another time. This was the first funeral, to my knowledge, in the county; and notwithstanding I had recently come out of the army, where death and desolation were all around me, I never before witnessed so solemn and impressive a scene as I did there and then. The lonely, wild, and desolate condition of the country, added to the grief of the parents and the fact that it was the first instance in which we had been made to feel that death would follow us wherever we went—all of these things made the occasion very impressive indeed.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 18, 1886.
In our report of the surprise party at Spencer Bliss’, we find we omitted the following names: Capt. S. G. Gary and wife; J. S. Hunt and wife; Dr. and Mrs. Wells; Mr. and Mrs. H. Silliman; Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Wood; Mrs. Hickok; Mrs. Young; and Misses Reider, Gregg, and Millspaugh.
[Note: Rev. Scott was mistaken about the time of his visit. Believe he should have stated December 1869 or January 1870 rather than December 1870. The name “Winfield” was adopted in January 1870. MAW]
EARLY HISTORY. A Letter From Winfield Scott, D. D.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 15, 1886.
ANGEL ISLAND, CALIFORNIA, April 2nd, 1886. ED. COURIER: In your journal of March 24th, just received by me, is copied a little private note I wrote the Rev. Mr. Reider. It was written with no idea of publication, or of giving any matter of historical interest of your place. It has led me to wonder whether the pioneers and old settlers of Kansas are as greatly interested in the rise and progress of your State as I have been. I was not a pioneer and do not claim any of the honor and glory that attaches to the grand characters that made history when Kansas fought her way through fire and blood to freedom. Going onto her soil in January, 1865, I was in time to see the development of a great State, in a most wonderful manner. At that date Weston was the western terminus of the H & St. Joe railroad and we rode in a coach from there to Leavenworth. I resided in Kansas until January, 1872, and saw the building of the Kansas Pacific, the L. L. & G., Missouri River, Ft. Scott & Gulf, and Neosho Valley railroad, and have ridden over those lines when towns along them containing from 500 to 1,000 inhabitants each had risen like magic from the prairie sod, and in so short a time that not an old shingle could be seen upon a single roof.
It was during the latter part of December, 1870, that I visited Walnut Valley. A few months before this a Leavenworth man had gone there. Among my friends were the families of Messrs. Andrews, Hickok, and Rev. O. W. Tousey. They sent me an invitation to visit them, telling me of the new country and of the name of the new town after myself, and that they expected it would be the county seat. I had known of many prophetic towns of euphonious and high sounding names that never existed except in imagination, or in a glowing letter of an enthusiastic squatter, or worse than that, only on a highly embellished and carefully platted card board, that I was not especially influenced by the town or the promise to immortalize my name, but I did want to see what was then known as the great “southwest” that was booming from the rushing tide of immigrants all going thither. I knew of the warm welcome, too, I should receive from the large hearted old friends then on the ground. Accompanied by my old college chum, Prof. D. H. Robinson, of the State University, we went to Emporia by car and took a team and drove to Eureka, where we were joined by my brother, S. Scott, now of Clay Center. From there we went west to Butler County, through El Dorado, Augusta, and Douglass, all rival towns, each full of prophecy and prophets, of their own success and the other failures.
Augusta was named after Mrs. Augusta James, the wife of Mr. C. N. James, my parishioner. I spent a day or two at Augusta, preaching evenings. I remember well the afternoon when we forded a stream, passed through a strip of timber, and drove over the gently sloping ridge, when we had the first view of the town of Winfield. The Main street was laid out and enough stores and houses rudely built, with foundations of other buildings laid to define where the intended main street was to be. The record I made in writing to an eastern journal was this: “On the center of a beautiful plateau of land, in the very heart of the valley, is rising a splendid town. Four months ago two or three houses marked the place where it was to be. Today there are twenty-seven buildings, twenty more are rising, and about thirty more lots have been secured.” I met there, besides the friends mentioned, D. A. Millington, an enterprising businessman, whom I had known in Leavenworth, and he believed in the town, and met me with cordiality and championed with liberality and enthusiasm my proposition to raise money for a Baptist church in Winfield. I preached every evening while there and hunted deer in the day time. The first day I killed three, just across the creek west of the town site. I borrowed and used a rickety old shotgun, with stock tied up with strings to hold things together. My luck as a hunter all came the first day, and that, too, in the forenoon.
The record of the Sabbath service is as follows: I preached in a store not completed. The front end of the building being out, we had for the congregation a wide open door. My pulpit was the end of a work bench with my overcoat doubled up for a desk. The seats were 2 x 8 scantling resting on nail kegs and boxes, and yet the entire room 20 x 36 was full morning and evening with an appreciative audience. We had a good choir and an organ. At the close of the morning sermon, a church was organized with twelve members. During the evening and the next day a subscription of $400 was secured, which was increased to about $700, sufficient to enclose a stone building 24 x 40 with 14 ft. walls of your stone quarry. This is the record: “I have never seen in the west as pure white magnitia [magnesia] limestone as these quarries afford. It can be laid in the wall for $2.25 per perch, thus furnishing durable and very cheap building material for the poor as well as the rich. It seems a little unique to think of a very poor man living in a magnificent limestone house roofed, shingled, finished, and furnished throughout with the best quality of grained black walnut, all this because it was so cheap—the difference between the dwellings of the poor and the rich being in the cut of the stone and the carve of the wood.” In returning home I volunteered to drive somebody’s team for them and made the trip alone. From a point north of Chelsea, I struck out across the Flint hills to go to headquarters of the east branch of Fall river, traveling by compass. This is the record. “For the first time in Kansas, I laid out upon the prairie, supperless and alone. With oats and hay for the horses, a robe blanket with God’s moon and stars in the heavens over me, and the precious spirit of Jesus in the heart, a happy night was spent while joy came in the morning. I know now why Abraham in journeying, rejoiced in setting by his altar and I can see how happy spirits can be inspired to make heaven resound with hallelujah.”
Thus was the publication of the little items of history, which seem to interest you, have tempted me to give you a few more items of history on more general matters which may awaken in others old memories and reveal to the younger generation what a luxury it was to live and work when the foundations of enterprises were being laid, which now add so much to the thrift, stability, and peace of a great state. I was always proud of Kansas. I proclaimed it east and west as “the poor man’s paradise, where continuous quarter sections could have more bona fide settlers on them than any western state.” My interest and pride in the state has never waned.
