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Kroenert Brothers
The Kroenert family started in America with Andrew Kroenert of Frankfort, Bavaria, Germany, and his wife, Margaret Weiler, of Halle, Germany, emigrating to America.
They had two sons, both born in Leavenworth, Kansas: John George Kroenert, born October 30, 1859, and William John Kroenert, born July 31, 1864.
The oldest son became known as “Johnnie” Kroenert at first. Later he was known as “John” or “Jno.” Kroenert.
John George Kroenert.
John George Kroenert (born October 30, 1859, in Leavenworth, Kansas) died May 17, 1924, at his home, 114 North B Street, in Arkansas City. He was buried in the Riverview Cemetery mausoleum, Crypt 5-B.
He married Sloma May Beck, who was residing with her parents, at 2021 Dripp Street, Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday morning, July 31, 1883. [The name of her parents was not given in newspaper accounts.] Sloma May Beck Kroenert was born December 17, 1863, in Hastings, Michigan. She died October 13, 1956, and was buried beside her husband. They left three children: Mrs. W. R. Jacques, of Chicago, Illinois; Mrs. Burdette Blue, of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Herbert Kroenert, of the home.
The following is from the book History of Kansas by A. T. Andreas and published in 1883.
“JOHN KROENERT, dealer in groceries, produce and stoneware, was born in Iowa, in 1860; son of Andrew and Margaretta Kroenert. He came with his parents to Kansas in infancy, they locating at Leavenworth, where he was raised. In 1877, he came to Arkansas City and engaged as a salesman until 1880, when he established his present business. He carries a full line of groceries, produce and stoneware. The business location is on Summit street, between Fifth and Central Avenue. He owns the building, 22 x 60 feet, and wareroom attached.”
[The following newspaper items concerning John Kroenert do not quite agree with the Andreas’ history account published in 1883.]
William John Kroenert.
William John Kroenert, born July 31, 1864, died November 16, 1933. He was buried in lot 5-282-south of Riverview Cemetery. His wife was Grace/Grace E./Fanny Grace (Nigh). (Her parents were James Nigh, born in Ohio, and Mary Louise Long, who was born in Sibley’s Point, Missouri). Mrs. William John Kroenert was born January 10, 1882, at Sibley’s Point, Missouri. She died January 8, 1946, and was buried in Riverview Cemetery.
Mr. and Mrs. William John Kroenert had the following children: Mary Louise Kroenert, of the home; George Kroenert, of Casper, Wyoming; Robert Kroenert, of Kansas City, Missouri; William Kroenert, of Wichita, Kansas; and Ted Kroenert, of New London, Connecticut.
Mary Louise Kroenert, born February 4, 1902, in Arkansas City. She never married. She died July 3, 1966, in Kansas City, Missouri, and was buried in Riverview Cemetery.
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
[BIG AD: WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1877.
WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE
FROM LEAVENWORTH, KANSAS,
SECOND DOOR SOUTH OF BENEDICT’S.
I have this day opened an excellent assortment of Spring and Summer Dry Goods, Ready-Made Clothing, Boots and Shoes, Fancy Goods and Notions, Which I will sell at the very lowest possible rates FOR CASH! You are respectfully invited to call and examine the goods. As I have come to stay, I shall use every honest effort to make WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE Known all over this beautiful new country for Fair Dealing, Low Prices and First-Class Goods. Respectfully, A. WILSON.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1877.
The businessmen of the west side of Central Avenue have challenged the east side to play a game of base ball on Thursday, tomorrow.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 29, 1877.
The following is the score of the game of base ball played August 23rd, between the east and west sides of Summit Street.
AM LISTING NAMES ONLY ACCORDING TO EAST AND WEST SIDES.
EAST SIDE.
R. HOUGHTON, C. CLINE, J. SHERBURNE, A. NEWMAN, GEO. ALLEN, J. LEONARD, F. SWARTS, J. CLARK, A. M. JOHNSON.
WEST SIDE.
J. KROENERT, A. DAVIS, WILL MOWRY, H. WARD, H. BACON, W. ALEXANDER, ED. HORN, WILL PEED, P. WOODYARD.
Note: East Side Won—25 to 20.
UMPIRE: R. C. HAYWOOD.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 17, 1877.
Mr. James Wilson, of the “Central” store, has returned from Leavenworth and other cities farther east. His fall and winter stock of dry goods will be received in a few days. We are glad to have him back again.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1877.
LAST SATURDAY was a lively day at the “Central Store,” the way the five cent calico went off, and the way the boots and shoes went out was something wonderful. Mr. Wilson and Johnnie had just as much as they could attend to, and are now opening about a dozen more boxes of dry goods, boots and shoes, hats, caps, etc., that they want their friends to buy. No use in going to Wichita or sending east for dry goods now, since we have the best goods for the lowest price at our own door.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 31, 1877.
JUST OPENED AT WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE:
Beautiful new Fall Dress Goods
All-wool Cashmeres, Mohairs, Mateless Cloths, etc.
New Style Waterproofs, Flannels, Yarns.
A big stock of Boots and Shoes, cheap for Cash,
And a great many other new goods. Call and see them.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 19, 1877.
MR. JAMES WILSON started for Leavenworth yesterday morning, to be absent about ten days. Johnny Kroenert will handle the dry goods during his absence and make special bargains to all who call.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 13, 1878.
The Best is the Cheapest.
WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE is headquarters for the best quality of all kinds of goods at the lowest prices.
SUMMIT ST., ARKANSAS CITY.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878.
NICE LITTLE LOTS of fresh dry goods coming in every few days at WILSON’S CENTRAL STORE.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 22, 1878.
A NEW LOT OF STRAW HATS at Wilson’s Central Store.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1879.
John Kroenert, who formerly clerked for Mr. Wilson in the “Central Store,” spent a few days in town last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 9, 1880.
Wilson’s Central Store may now be found in J. L. Huey’s new stone building on the opposite side of the street. It will henceforth be known as Wilson’s Solid Rock Store, in allusion we presume to the solid basis upon which the business is transacted and the material of which the building is constructed. The many friends and patrons of this concern will find Mr. Wilson and his popular clerk, Johnny Kroenert, ready at all times to display the bargains constantly on hand at this establishment.
AD: FRESH FROM THE FAR EAST, By far the finest assortment of Boots, Shoes, and Summer Hats we have ever opened. Come and look at them, they are just splendid and positively cheap, at Wilson’s “Solid Rock” Store, on the other side of the street, opposite the old stand.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1880.
Johnny Kroenert left for Wichita yesterday afternoon, to pay a visit to relatives and friends there. He will be absent several days.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1880.
The new grocery firm of Wood & Kroenert will occupy the room just north of Kellogg & Mowry’s drug store, which will be renovated and refitted in first class style. They expect to be all ready for business in about two weeks.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1880.
Frank Wood, well known in this city, goes to Arkansas City soon to form a co-partnership in the grocery business with a Mr. Kroenert. Mr. Wood’s wife, nee Miss Emily Richardson, will accompany him. Wichita Republican.
We shall be pleased to welcome Frank and his fair young wife to the social circles of our city, and as to that “grocery business” we can only say both Frank Wood and John Kroenert are well and favorably known in this vicinity and we feel assured will receive a patronage that cannot fail of making their undertaking a complete success.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1880.
We had the pleasure of meeting yesterday Mr. G. Hutchison, of Lexington, Missouri. Mr. Hutchison is a brother-in-law of Mr. Wilson, with whom he will remain for the present, taking the place of Mr. Kroenert. We hope he may like his new home well enough to make it a permanent one for himself and family.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1880.
Messrs. Kroenert & Wood come to the front this week with a new “ad,” which heralds forth the advantages to be obtained by trading at the “Diamond Front.” These gentlemen have brought on a very large and well selected stock of everything pertaining to a first-class grocery, which they have opened out just north of Kellogg & Mowry’s drug store, and solicit the favor of a visit from all. The boys are well known, and we wish them every success in their business enterprise. Don’t forget the sign—the “Diamond Front Grocery.”
AD: THE ‘DIAMOND’ FRONT GROCERY.
Kroenert & Wood
Have just opened out a large and elegant stock of staple and fancy GROCERIES!
One door north of Kellogg & Mowry’s drug store, where they invite the patronage of the public. Their stock embraces everything found in a first-class grocery, and the proprietors take pleasure in showing their goods, feeling assured that they have facilities for selling as cheap as the cheapest. Give us a call and examine our stock.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 15, 1880.
CHRISTMAS TIME.
The names of the various committees having in charge the Christmas tree festivities to be held at the Presbyterian church, were handed in last week, but were unavoidably crowded out, and are presented in this issue, as follows.
Committee on Procuring Tree: Messrs. John Walker, M. B. Vawter, S. B. Reed, A. Gardner, R. Hutchison, C. L. Swarts.
Committee on Receiving Presents: Misses Clara Finley, Alma Dixon, Kate Hawkins, May Roland, May Benedict, Lizzie Guthrie, Mary Thomas, and Messrs. F. W. Farrar, C. M. Swarts, Dr. Vawter, Robert Maxwell.
Decorating Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Searing, Mr. and Mrs. Matlack, Mrs. Haywood, Mrs. Shepard, Mrs. Cypher, Misses Mary Parker, Angie Mantor, Carrie Benedict, Annie Norton, Mattie Mitchell, Linnie Peed, Flora Finley, Albertine Maxwell, Sadie Thomas, Linda Christian, Annie Hutchison, Mary Theaker, Emma and Susie Hunt, Ada Easterday; Messrs. E. G. Gray, W. D. Mowry, John Kroenert, J. D. Houston, George Howard, D. Cunningham, James Leonard, Will Peed, J. C. Topliff, Dick Chamberlain, Irving French.
Distributing Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Standley, Mr. and Mrs. Bonsall, Mr. and Mrs. Gooch, Mr. and Mrs. Sleeth, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mantor.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1880.
Kroenert & Wood have purchased the room once occupied by D. S. Rose as a tin shop, and moved it to the back of their grocery. It speaks well for their trade to need more accommodation this soon.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 2, 1881.
Messrs. Kroenert & Wood are now agents for the Adams express company.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 23, 1881.
The grocery firm of Kroenert & Wood dissolved partnership last Wednesday, Mr. Wood retiring. This leaves our popular friend, John Kroenert, as proprietor of the Diamond Front grocery, where he has just received a large stock of new goods and will be pleased to welcome all his old customers.
DISSOLUTION NOTICE.
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned have this day dissolved by mutual consent the partnership heretofore existing under the firm name of Kroenert & Wood. Mr. Wood retires from the business, which will in future be conducted by Mr. Kroenert, who will liquidate all claims against and assume all liabilities of the late firm.
JOHN KROENERT, FRANK C. WOOD. Arkansas City, Feb. 17, 1881.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 18, 1881.
Johnny Kroenert spent Sunday last in Wichita with friends and relatives.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 1, 1881.
Horses are fetching a fair price nowadays. Dr. Vawter sold his horse for $100; and John Kroenert netted $120 for his one day last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 29, 1881.
John Kroenert had quite a time breaking in his new delivery horse the other day. It had never been used to work single, and when hitched up, got lonesome, kicked around quite lively, and finally started on a run for the Walnut, closely followed by the wagon. He was caught, however, before doing any damage to himself or the wagon.
Since writing the above, Mr. Kroenert has sold the too energetic brute, and replaced him with one more suited to the work for which he is required.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 17, 1881.
John Kroenert of the Diamond Front grocery, has a new “ad” this week, which contains good news for all. Read it.
AD: THE ‘DIAMOND’ FRONT
JOHN KROENERT,
-DEALER IN-
Staple and Fancy Groceries.
HIGHEST PRICE PAID FOR COUNTRY PRODUCE,
CASH OR TRADE.
Have everything to be found in a first-class Grocery Store.
Goods delivered to all persons living in town.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 7, 1881.
A dance was held at the Central Avenue Hotel last Friday evening in honor of Miss Julia Deming, of Wichita, who is now in the city, a guest of Miss Mattie Mitchell. Among the happy throng we noticed the following ladies and gentlemen.
Misses Julia Deming, Mattie Mitchell, Kate Hawkins, Lucy Walton, Mary Parker, Belle Cassell, Lizzie Wyckoff, Susey Hunt, Alma Dixon, Lilly Chamberlain, Ella Bowers, ____ Wouzo, Effie Tate, Mrs. R. A. Houghton, Mrs. C. R. Sipes, Messrs. S. D. Longsdorff, W. Cline, R. P. Hutchins, Chas. Hutchins, C. Swarts, ____ Ellis, A. H. Fitch, M. B. Vawter, C. C. France, C. Holland, C. M. Swarts, Chas. Swarts, C. R. Sipes, R. A. Houghton, J. Vawter, Ollie Stevenson, F. Farrar, and J. Kroenert, who merrily chased old Father Time till past the midnight hour.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 14, 1881.
The farewell party, given by Miss Lillie Chamberlain at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schiffbauer, on Tuesday evening of last week, was one of the grandest events of the season. The full moon shown down like an immense headlight, viewing apparently, with the many Chinese lanterns that were pendant from the surrounding trees, making the scene resemble that of fairy land rather than reality.
After some time spent in promenading through the beautiful grove of fruit and forest trees, the party’s attention was directed to an immense platform prepared for the occasion, where Prof. Farringer, with the string band of Winfield, had taken position, and in a few moments it was filled with youth and beauty gliding through the graceful movements of the easy quadrille and mazy waltz. A gorgeous repast followed, then with spirits overjoyed, each of the party instituted all manner of fun and mirth, which had to be seen to be appreciated. Mr. Matlack produced a novel figure in the terpsichorean art that few ever witnessed before, while Cal. Swarts furnished the music. To say it was an enjoyable affair don’t half express it, and for one, we hope to have the pleasure of again meeting Miss Chamberlain and her many friends under like circumstances. The Cornet Band did their best and filled the night air with delightful sounds for which the hostess came forward, and in the most charming manner, expressed her appreciation and thanked them for their kindness.
The following ladies and gentlemen participated.
Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Schiffbauer.
Mr. and Mrs. James I. Huey.
Mr. and Mrs. Mead.
Mr. and Mrs. S. Matlack.
Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Farrar.
Mr. and Mrs. Capt. O. Ingersoll.
Mr. and Mrs. R. A. Houghton.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Sherburne.
Mr. and Mrs. Wyard E. Gooch.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Grubbs.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Speers.
Mr. and Mrs. James E. Miller.
Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Benedict.
Mr. and Mrs. James Benedict.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Schiffbauer.
Mrs. James Wilson.
Mrs. Alexander.
Mrs. C. R. Sipes.
THE MISSES.
Mary Parker.
Susie L. Hunt.
Anna Belle Cassell.
Lizzie Wyckoff.
Mattie F. Mitchell.
Julia Deming.
Lucy Walton.
May Benedict.
Kathleen Hawkins.
Annie Norton.
Grace Gardner.
Mabel Ayres.
THE MESSRS.
M. B. Vawter.
Dr. Jamison Vawter.
J. D. C. O’Grady.
C. L. Swarts.
Charles M. Swarts.
Fred W. Farrar.
Joseph D. Houston.
John Kroenert.
Charles U. France.
Showman D. Longsdorff.
James C. Topliff.
William D. Mowry.
Cyrus M. Scott.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 9, 1881.
Chas. Holloway officiated at J. Kroenert’s grocery several days last week.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 4, 1882.
MASQUERADE PARTY.
The social event of the Holiday week was the masquerade party held at the residence of Mr. James L. Huey on Friday evening, December 30th. A large number of invitations had been sent out, which were almost universally responded to, thus making the party a glorious success. The residence of Mr. Huey is one of the largest, and most commodious, in town; and as the merry throng of maskers promenaded the handsomely appointed salons of the mansion their costumes showed, to perfection, in the brilliant light of the glittering chandeliers. The guests were received by Mrs. James L. Huey, the hostess, assisted by her sister, Mrs. Fred Farrar, and it is needless to say, that under their hospitable care, every attention was shown “the motley crew” that claimed their cares. Refreshments in the shape of many tempting kinds of cake, sandwiches, teas, and coffee were liberally provided. Music lent its aid to the other enjoyments which coupled with the many unique costumes, and the cheering hum of voices lent a charm never to be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to take part in the festivities.
The following is a partial list of the guests with the characters they represented.
Mrs. Cunningham, Flower Girl; Mr. Cunningham, Imp; Mrs. Howard, Miss Prim; Mrs. Farrar, City Belle; Mrs. Searing, “Boss” Flour; Mrs. Matlack, “Straight” Flour; T. R. Houghton, Blazes; Alma Easterday, Bridget; Mrs. Grubbs, A Lady; Mrs. Nellie Houghton, Dreadnaught; J. Kroenert, “Lo”; C. M. Swarts, Chapeau; R. E. Grubbs, Widow Pudge; Miss Haywood, Queen Elizabeth; Mrs. Norton, Widow Bedott; Miss Guthrie, Incognita; Angie Mantor, Fat Woman; Jerry Adams, Bashful Maid; R. A. Houghton, Judge; I. H. Bonsall, Minister; Mrs. R. A. Houghton, A Bride; Mrs. Ingersoll, Quackeress; Mrs. Sipes, Quackeress; C. U. France, Uncle Toby; W. Thompson, Father Time; A. D. Ayres, Irishman; Mrs. A. D. Ayres, Anonyma; Mrs. Mead, Languedoc; Mr. Mead, Ghost; Mrs. T. Mantor, Mask; T. Mantor, Mask; J. G. Shelden, Cow Boy; Mrs. Watson, Old Maid; Mrs. Chandler, Night; C. R. Sipes, Uncle Tom; Miss A. Norton, Sunflower; Miss S. Hunt, Sunflower; Miss M. Parker, Sunflower; Miss Peterson, Nun; Miss A. Dickson, Sister of Mercy; Miss L. Wyckoff, Sister of Mercy; J. T. Shepard, Guiteau; J. H. Walker & wife, German Couple; C. H. Searing, XXXX Flour; J. Gooch, Private U. S. A.; C. Hutchins, Private, U. S. A.; Mrs. Haywood, Dinah; Mrs. Newman, Topsy; Dr. J. Vawter, Prohibition; C. L. Swarts, Post no bills; W. D. Mowry, A Bottle; Clara Finley, A Lone Star; R. C. Haywood, Fat Dutch Boy; Ben Matlack, May Fisk; M. B. Vawter, Fireman; O. Ingersoll, Big Mynheer; Mrs. Shepard, Japanese Lady; Miss Cassell, Red Riding Hood; Mrs. L. McLaughlin, Mrs. J. Smith; Mr. Matlack, “Pat” bedad; Mrs. Gooch, Equestrienne; R. J. Maxwell, Priest.
Among the ladies and gentlemen who were present, unmasked, were Rev. Fleming and wife, W. E. Gooch, H. P. Farrar, Mr. Chandler, Mr. and Mrs. Bonsall, Mrs. Mowry, and many others whose names our reporter failed to receive.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 8, 1882.
John Kroenert went out goodie-hunting a few days ago. He fired at an old gander, when, by some means, both barrels of the gun were discharged. John exchanged ends a few times, but escaped with only a lame arm. The goose in front of the gun was killed.
[FIRE EQUIPMENT: ORGANIZING A FIRE COMPANY.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 22, 1882.
The necessity of a more efficient and better organized “fire extinguisher” has at last impressed itself upon some of our citizens. Recognizing the fact that a slight fire in the business part of town would most surely sweep our business street without some organized means of preventing a spread, the young men had a meeting, in the Y. M. C. A. Room, last Thursday for the purpose of forming a Hook and Ladder, or Fire Company. C. L. Swarts was elected chairman. After stating the object of the meeting and discussing the subject, pro and con, it was decided to elect a permanent organization. W. V. McConn, F. J. Hess, and E. O. Stevenson were appointed Committee on Permanent Organization; J. Kroenert, W. D. Mowry, and F. J. Hess were appointed Committee on Apparatus. Another meeting will be held this (Wednesday) evening, at the City Council Rooms. Those interested are invited to attend.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 12, 1882.
The team hitched to Fitch & Barron’s sewing machine wagon became scared by the unfastening of one of the tugs while on the streets last Thursday, and for a time made things quite lively in the vicinity of Kellogg & Mowry’s drug store. They made a short turn onto the sidewalk, passed under Johnny Kroenert’s awning, and were just getting in form for a first-class local when they were fortunately stopped. Beyond somewhat damaging a sewing machine that was in the wagon, no damage was done.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 14, 1882.
John Kroenert, of the Diamond Front, has secured the services of S. J. Mantor as clerk.
[BIG WEDDING HELD AT RESIDENCE OF DR. J. T. SHEPARD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, June 28, 1882.
Married.
Wednesday evening, June 21st, at the residence of Dr. J. T. Shepard, by the Rev. S. B. Fleming, Mr. M. B. Vawter and Miss Alma Dixon.
The wedding was decidedly a grand success. The pleasant and orderly manner in which everything was conducted was the subject of general remark. The spacious parlors of Dr. Shepard were filled to overflowing with the admiring friends of the young couple. Great credit is due Messrs. Maxwell and Kroenert for the gentlemanly and gallant manner with which they waited upon the invited guests. Acknowledgments are due Mrs. Bonsall, Mrs. Searing, Mrs. Chapel, Mrs. Ingersoll, Mrs. Bishop, Mrs. Alexander, and Mrs. Wilson for flowers. The decorations were beautifully and tastefully arranged. On the south wall of the parlor was a large festoon of evergreen, with the letters V. and D. skillfully worked in the center. From the ceiling hung a large marriage bell made of evergreen, sprinkled with white flowers, with a large white calla lily suspended from the center. Shortly before 10 o’clock a grand wedding march pealed forth from the organ so ably presided over by Miss Bell Cassell. At a given signal the attendants, Miss Clara Finley and J. O. Campbell, Miss Maggie Gardiner and Mr. J. C. Topliff, followed by the Bride and Groom, marched to the music down the broad stairway and into the parlor. When the last notes died away from the organ, Rev. Fleming performed the ceremony in solemn, touching simplicity, and pronounced them man and wife. After the usual hearty salutations and good wishes, a sumptuous feast was served in fine style; Mrs. Dr. Shepard presiding with her usual grace and affability. Quite an enjoyable time was had in cutting and serving the very handsome bride’s cake, to see who would be fortunate enough to secure the ring it contained. Mr. E. O. Stevenson proved to be the lucky fellow. After an hour or so spent in social enjoyment, everyone departed, wishing the happy pair as happy and cheerful a life as their wedding seemed to promise.
The presents were numerous and handsome.
Marble Top Center Table. The Father and Brother of the bride.
Silver Coffee Pot. Dr. and Mrs. Shepard.
Silver Tea Service. H. H. Davidson and wife.
Handsome Center Table. Mr. W. J. Stewart and wife.
A beautiful Horseshoe made of Colorado Minerals. Ben Dixon.
Elegant Silver Water Service. A. A. Newman and wife, W. E. Gooch and wife, T. Mantor and wife, Jerry Adams, and Sam Reed.
A Lovely Basket with artistic design of sea weed and sea shell in the center. Mrs. L. McLaughlin.
A Lady’s elegant Dressing Case. J. C. Topliff.
Lace Scarf. Miss Etta Maxwell, Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Silver Butter Knife. Willie and Jamie Fleming.
Silver Call Bell. Freddie McLaughlin.
A very handsome Sofa upholstered in raw silk, with Patent Rockers to match, together with a large Rattan Easy Chair. By the many young friends of the Bride and Groom.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 26, 1882.
It’s John Kroenert & Co. now.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 9, 1882.
Johnny Kroenert has much improved his store by the new additions made in the past ten days.
[CONSTANT CHIMES.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 13, 1882.
John Kroenert said he was going to the State Fair, but we won’t tell all we know about it. He started yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 20, 1882.
Johnny Kroenert smiles with the home boys once more.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1883.
John Kroenert, our boss young groceryman, is now in Kansas City making a business trip. We hope Johnny will enjoy his trip; and if the court knows herself, we are sure he will.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 11, 1883.
John Kroenert, of the Diamond Front, has been doing a lively business lately shipping potatoes to Dodge City.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 1, 1883.
Mr. John Kroenert, of the Diamond Front, started for Kansas City last Friday on a business trip, for which the TRAVELER office fitted him out with the neatest and most elegant lot of “business cards” the heart of bachelor could desire.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 1, 1883.
Hymeneal.
MARRIED, on Tuesday, July 31, 1883, at the residence of the bride in Kansas City, Missouri, Mr. John Kroenert, of Arkansas City, Kansas, to Miss Sloma May Beck. The bridegroom is one of our youngest businessmen, but he has earned for himself an envied position in society, and his many friends will heartily welcome him and his bride to the social circles of our town.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 8, 1883.
Mr. and Mrs. John Kroenert arrived in our city last Thursday and at present are guests of the Leland.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.
MARRIED. At the residence of the bride’s parents, 2021 Dripp Street, Tuesday morning, July 31, Sloma May Beck, of this city, was married to J. Kroenert, of Arkansas City, Kansas. The happy couple left on the evening train for Arkansas City, Kansas, their future home.
K. C. Journal.
[WEDDING: KROENERT TO BECK.]
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.
A Quiet Wedding. Among the quiet marital occasions of the past week was the wedding of Miss Sloma May Beck to Mr. J. Kroenert, of Arkansas City, Kansas. The affair was private, and those present were confined to the relatives and immediate friends of the bridal couple. The bride is a lady of rare refinement and grace of manner, and most favorably known and esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances here. Mr. Kroenert is an enterprising young businessman of Arkansas City. The happy pair departed after the ceremony for their future home at Arkansas City. Kansas City Journal.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 21, 1883.
WANTED. At the Diamond Front: 1,000 Turkeys; 1,000 Chickens; 1,000 Ducks—and every description of game, for which we will pay the highest market price. J. Kroenert & Co.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 5, 1883.
Candies, Nuts, and Apples at wholesale and retail at J. Kroenert & Co.’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 26, 1883.
Mrs. C. Schiffbauer and Mrs. John Kroenert will spend the holidays in Kansas City with their relations. Charlie and John will doubtless hold a reunion and indulge in an old fashioned bachelor time.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.
Frank Austin, formerly traveling salesman for Bitman, Taylor & Co., of Leavenworth, is in the city. He has formed a partnership with John Kroenert of Arkansas City.
Wichita Times.
[CHANGE IN FIRM: FROM DIAMOND FRONT TO KROENERT & AUSTIN.]
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.
We call attention to the change in the firm name of the Diamond Front grocery, which instead of being J. Kroenert & Co., is now Kroenert & Austin. This firm has, under the management of Mr. Kroenert, been doing a large and constantly increasing business, and the present change will result, we believe, to still further augment the trade transacted at the Diamond Front.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.
Messrs. Kroenert & Austin intend to put up a handsome and substantial store building on the site of their present store early in the spring.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 9, 1884.
To Whom It May Concern. All parties knowing themselves to be indebted to John Kroenert & Co. are requested to call at the Diamond Front and settle their accounts without delay, a change having been made in the personnel of the firm. John Kroenert & Co.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 6, 1884.
The attention of our readers is called to the “ad” of Messrs. Kroenert & Austin, which is full of things that will pay to know. Their stock is one of the largest in the city, and replete with everything in their line.
AD. THE ‘DIAMOND’ FRONT GROCERY, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL.
KROENERT & AUSTIN, PROPRIETORS.
CALIFORNIA BONELESS HAM. PIGS’ FEET. FANCY SODA CRACKERS. CRACKNELS. CORDOVA FRESH ROASTED RIO. CROSSE & BLACKWELL’S IMPORTED CHOW CHOW. FRANK SIDDAL’S SOAP. PURE HONEY. GREEN APPLES. CANNED PIE PEACHES, ETC.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 6, 1884.
LOST. Between this city and Bolton Township, Wednesday, January 30, 1884, a pocket book containing $60 in cash, and three orders, one signed by I. Johnson. Twenty dollars reward will be paid if finder will leave the same at Kroenert & Austin’s store.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 13, 1884.
Read Kroenert & Austin’s specials this week.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 13, 1884.
Brook Trout, Salmon, Lobsters at the Diamond Front.
Buckwheat Flour and Maple Syrup at the Diamond Front.
Hominy, Corned Beef, Chocolate at the Diamond Front.
Pitted Cherries, Raspberries, and evaporated apples at the Diamond Front.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
Hot biscuits are the latest advertising medium. See Canal Mills specials.
Ad. Did you taste those hot biscuits at Ware & Pickering’s last Saturday made from Canal Mills flour?
Ad. Those elegant hot biscuits at Kroenert & Austin’s last Monday were made from Canal Mills flour and French powder.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
Kroenert & Austin’s special notices this week are unusually interesting.
Ad. What Shall I Get to Eat? Kroenert & Austin have Cranberry Sauce, Green Cabbage, Fancy Mixed Pickles, Canned Beef, Comb Honey, Curtice Bros.’ Yellow Peaches in syrup, California Evaporated Peaches, peeled, Pitted Cherries, Raspberries, Mackerel in mustard, Brook Trout, Salmon, Breakfast Bacon, Ham, Mackerel in Bulk. The Diamond Front.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 16, 1884.
Ad. Stockmen, Attention! Remember that Early Orange cane seed will make double the yield of any cane that grows. 20 tons to the acre sown with millet. Special discount on 100 bushel lots. For prices, etc., address, J. S. Alter, Geuda Springs, or Kroenert & Austin, of Arkansas City, Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1884.
Kroenert & Austin had fresh strawberries yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1884.
Messrs. Kroenert & Austin last week filled out over 100 teams with supplies for the Oklahoma lands.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 30, 1884.
Kroenert & Austin received from the south yesterday the first strawberries of the season. The hungry boarding house man will stroll around occasionally and look at them.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 11, 1884.
[AD WITH ILLUSTRATION...MAN WITH TELEPHONE]:
“HELLO, DIAMOND FRONT?” (Afraid of twisting the wire by saying Kroenert). “I understand you are giving away elegant silverware with baking powder. Send me down a can; some of that nice Durham cheese, and a supply of vegetables. You always have the best assortment. Also a jar of those excellent preserves right away. That’s all.”
Arkansas City Traveler, June 18, 1884.
BIRTH. Mr. and Mrs. John Kroenert are the proud parents of a fine little girl, who was born on Wednesday, June 11. May fortune’s brightest smiles rest on the little stranger in her voyage through life.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 23, 1884.
Messrs. Kroenert & Austin have put up a roomy addition to the rear of their exclusive grocery house. The gentlemen are determined to keep the Diamond Front grocery in the front rank of our business establishments.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1884.
Telephone Exchange.
NOTE: REALLY COULD NOT READ NUMBERS GIVEN...GUESSED AT THE FIRST TWO AND THEN DECIDED TO FORGET PUTTING DOWN NUMBERS!
Y. M. Ayres’ Mill 142
V. M. Ayres’ Store 131
Arkansas City Bank
A T & S F Depot
A. V. Alexander & Co.
Frank Beall’s residence
Braden’s stable
G. W. Cunningham’s office
G. W. Cunningham’s residence
Cowley County Bank
Democrat office
E. D. Eddy’s drug store
E. D. Eddy’s residence
Geuda Springs
Dr. Grimes’ office and residence
J. W. Hutchison & Sons’
J. L. Huey’s residence
Kroenert & Austin
Kellogg, Matlack & Howard
Leland Hotel
Landes, Beall & Co.’s Mill
Landes, Beall & Co.’s Office
John Landes’ residence
Mowry & Sollitt
W. D. Mowry’s residence
S. Matlack
W. G. Miller & Co. (Blacksmith)
A. A. Newman & Co.
A. A. Newman’s residence
A. J. Pyburn’s office
Republican office
Speers’ Mill
Searing & Mead’s Mill
Searing & Mead’s Office
H. P. Standley’s residence
N. T. Snyder’s residence
Traveler Office
Winfield
Windsor Hotel
Messages can be sent at night and on Sundays as follows:
To Winfield from N. T. Snyder’s residence.
To Geuda Springs from Leland Hotel.
Subscribers will please cut this out and paste up in a conspicuous place.
Telephone charges are for five minutes’ conversation as follows:
To Winfield: 25 cents
To Geuda Springs: 25 cents
Messenger Service: 15 cents
City limits: 10 cents
N. T. SNYDER, Manager.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 24, 1884.
A CORRECTION. The notice that appeared in one of the city papers last week, stating that Messrs. Kroenert & Austin would not handle Landes, Beall & Co.’s flour, is hereby rescinded, the latter gentlemen being convinced that they were misinformed in the premises. Messrs. Kroenert & Austin will henceforth carry all brands of our flour.
LANDES, BEALL & CO.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 5, 1884.
A Card.
In the course of my business as an advertising agent, I came to Arkansas City last week, and, thanks to the liberality of the businessmen of the city, I succeeded in getting up my advertisements, which may now be seen at the leading grocery houses in town. Wishing the printing to be done in the city, I visited the TRAVELER, Democrat, and Republican offices, and finally decided to give the work to the Republican. The nature of my business is such that I am compelled to travel alone, but though I have visited many cities of the state, I have never yet experienced the slightest inconvenience, as I always endeavor to conduct myself as a lady, relying upon true manhood as protection from insult. In order to superintend the printing, I visited the Republican office, and the object of this card is to state that by one of its proprietors, Mr. Howard, I was treated as no one with a spark of manhood would treat a lady. His only reason for making the remarks he did must have sprung from the instincts of a contemptible coward. He knew I was alone and unprotected. I left the office at once, and succeeded in getting my work done at the TRAVELER office; and that I fulfilled my contracts to the satisfaction of my patrons (under whose advice I publish this statement), will be seen by the subjoined testimonial. FLORA WILCOX, Springfield, Illinois.
ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
On this the 30th day of October, 1884, before the undersigned, a notary public within and for the county of Cowley and state of Kansas, personally came Flora Wilcox, of lawful age, who, being duly sworn, deposes and says the statements made in the foregoing are true in every respect. FLORA WILCOX.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this 30th day of October, 1884.
[SEAL.] RICHARD U. HESS, Notary Public.
We, the undersigned, desire to state that Miss Flora Wilcox has been making a business canvass of our city, seeking advertisements, and having transacted business matters with her, we believe her to be in every sense of the term a lady and a thorough business woman.
WARE & PICKERING, grocers.
KROENERT & AUSTIN, grocers.
McDOWELL BROS., butchers.
MOWRY & SOLLITT, druggists.
KIMMEL & MOORE, grocers.
F. W. FARRAR, assistant cashier, Cowley County Bank.
H. H. PERRY, proprietor, Leland Hotel.
H. P. STANDLEY, editor, TRAVELER.
S. MATLACK, dry goods.
J. W. HUTCHISON & SONS, grocers.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
For Sale. On light delivery wagon. Terms satisfactory. KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
Kroenert & Austin WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS.
-WE BUY- Butter, Eggs, Hides, Furs, Game, and Produce.
-WE SELL- Everything in the Staple or Fancy Grocery Line.
Carrying the largest and an exclusive stock of Groceries, we are enabled to supply the wants of a general Public. A free delivery inside City limits. TELEPHONE CONNECTION.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1884.
Don’t fail to read what Messrs. Kroenert & Austin, the Diamond Front grocers, have to say in their new “ad” and special notices this week. They can’t save your life, but they’ll undoubtedly save you money if you only give them a chance.
BIG AD. Kroenert & Austin [on one line]
Illustration of a Diamond and words “THE DIAMOND FRONT” [on second line]
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS.
-WE BUY- Butter, Eggs, Hides, Furs, Game, and Produce.
-WE SELL- Everything in the Staple or Fancy Grocery Line. Carrying the largest and an exclusive stock of Groceries, we are enabled to supply the wants of a general Public. A free delivery inside City limits. TELEPHONE CONNECTION.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
Kroenert & Austin bought $100 worth of game Monday.
Arkansas City Traveler, Supplement, December 24, 1884.
BIG AD. TAKE NO CHANCES! PRESENTS FOR ALL!
We are offering during the Holidays unprecedented low prices. Our stock is larger than ever before, and we have come to stay. We offer:
Mixed Candy, 12-1/2 cents.
Granulated Sugar, 12-1/2 lbs. For $1.
Eight cans Blackberries, $1.
Eight cans Tomatoes, $1.
Eight cans 2-pound Raspberries, $1.
Eight cans 2-pound Corn, $1.
Eight cans 2-pound String Beans, $1.
Good Plug Tobacco, 40 cents per pound.
Having no rent to pay, and with nine years’ experience in the Wholesale and Retail Grocery business, we are able to compete with any price. KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
Mr. George Kroenert has been chosen manager of the Wichita Opera House.
Wichita Eagle.
George is a brother of our John, and if he is as great a rustler as his brother, he will make things hum in the dramatic line this winter.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
The Episcopal ladies were overrun, New Year’s afternoon, with visitors, who came to enjoy their hospitality—which is renowned in Arkansas City. The names of the ladies who received were:
Mrs. W. E. Gooch.
Mrs. R. E. Grubbs.
Mrs. Nicholson.
Mrs. M. S. Hasie.
Mrs. Frank Beall.
Mrs. John Landes.
Mrs. J. H. Hilliard.
Mrs. A. J. Chapel.
Miss Jennie Peterson.
Misses Hasie, Etta Barnett, Mame Stineman, Minnie Stewart.
The names of the principal callers we append below.
Maj. M. S. Hasie.
Mr. Nicholson.
I. H. Bonsall.
Dr. H. D. Kellogg.
T. S. Moorhead.
Dr. J. A. Mitchell.
A. D. Hawk.
Rev. J. O. Campbell.
J. H. Hilliard.
Chas. Chapel.
Phil. L. Snyder.
Ed. L. Kingsbury.
Lute V. Coombs.
Leavitt Coburn.
Frank M. Grosscup.
Richard L. Howard.
B. E. Grubbs.
S. Matlack.
C. Mead.
John Kroenert.
Sam P. Gould.
Dr. A. J. Chapel.
Wyard E. Gooch.
Dr. G. H. J. Hart.
C. H. Searing.
G. W. Cunningham.
F. P. Schiffbauer.
Charles Schiffbauer.
O. Ingersoll.
Sam Wile.
Al. Levy.
Frank Beall.
C. R. Sipes.
R. C. Multer.
The ladies received royally, and a royal attendance was the result.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
THE CANAL CITY AS SHE WAS.
A Marvel of Growth, Energy, Enterprise, and Stick-to-itive-ness.
In the year 1870 a band of men formed the idea of starting a town where Arkansas City now is. To think was to act! Surveying was commenced in March and the plat recorded in April, a town company was organized and everything on a boom, all in the period of three months. Why this site was chosen, being as it was 125 miles from one place in one direction and 500 in the other, might seem a mystery to many who have never been here. To the founders of this city, it was not, however. The selection of the site was made on the exercise of their best judgment, assisted by solid horse sense. A comparison of this whole country, any part of which they could have chosen, satisfied them the site they selected was the best for health, for beauty of location, for safety, and for growth. Experience has justified their decision.
Capt. Norton, one of the town company, built the first house and established the first store on the block now occupied by the elegant residences of Messrs. Child’s, Kroenert, and Hasie. He had everything a man or woman could desire, from a dress button to a side of hog; the city was laid out to be built as it was built. Summit street was intended to be the business street, as it is.
The first building put up on Summit street was erected for C. R. Sipes. It was 16 x 20, and on the site he now occupies. He put in a stock of hardware, stoves, tinware, iron, and agricultural implements. The store boasted of a proprietor, a salesman, a tinner, and man of all work. Charles was all of them. He put in a stock worth about $1,500, hauled from Emporia, 125 miles, and paid $1.50 per hundred pounds, or about 20 percent, for getting them here. He next traded a pony for enough lumber to make an addition of 20 feet more, making his store room 16 x 40 ft., a truly mammoth structure. This was in the fall of 1870. He now began to manufacture his own tinware instead of buying it. In the spring he put on another addition of 16 feet, and the citizens “pointed with pride” to its metropolitan proportions. Charles sold the first year he was in business about $3,000 worth of goods.
The second store that was started was in the old log shanty just north of Bonsall’s photograph gallery, and which was torn down last summer. Lafe Goodrich, now farming in Ninnescah, was the proprietor of this, an extensive grocery store. At the end of 1870 there were about 250 people here. At the end of 1871, about 300, near which number it stayed for several years. The first doctor who located permanently was Dr. Hughes, and the first minister was Rev. B. C. Swarts.
For two years our people were compelled to haul their supplies of whatsoever kind from Emporia, 125 miles distant. Then for a little over a year from Florence, 85 miles away. And after that, until the railroad reached us, from Wichita, thus contributing her share toward the growth of each of these places.
AS SHE NOW IS.
What magical change has taken place? What Aladdmic transformation is this? We discover in place of the little village, a city of nearly four thousand. In place of the “mammoth” frame building 16 x 56, some fair building 125 x 32, three stories and basement. Instead of $1,500 stock, $15,000 stocks. For two business houses, 200. Large schoolhouses, fine residences, good walks, commodious business houses, large flour mills, Opera House, four hotels, and the most energetic lively and accomplished citizens on God’s universe.
Arkansas City as she was and the Canal City as she is! Transmogrification indeed!
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
We see some of our neighboring towns making loud brags about the amount of improvements made in their respective localities. We are candid in saying that it is impossible to ascertain the amount of improvements made here in the last year. The number of dwellings amounted at the very least to 250. We will put them at a very low estimate, $500 each. This makes $125,000. Then we have the Commercial and Hasie Blocks, $75,000; the Cowley County Bank, $25,000, the new schoolhouse, $10,000; the Houghton Block, $7,500; the Mason building, $2,000; Sipes’ block, $7,500; H. P. Farrar, $5,000; addition to the building occupied by Wyckoff & Son, $2,000; Baptist Church, $3,000; Christian Church, $2,500; Free Methodist Church, $1,000; Methodist and Presbyterian Churches, repairs, $1,500; W. M. Blakeney, $1,500; Leland Hotel, $4,000; Newman, building block 69, $1,000; Arkansas City Building Association, $5,000; Skating Rink, $1,500; J. H. Punshon, $1,000; D. W. Stevens and L. Eldridge, $1,000; Beecher & Co. and McLaughlin Bros., $1,500; J. H. Hilliard, $1,000; Thompson & Woodin, $1,000; Chambers, $1,000; J. Alexander, $1,500; Ayres’ Mill and Landes, Beall & Co., improvements, $1,000; DeBruce, $1,000; Park & Lewis and W. M. Rose, $1,000; Kroenert & Austin and Steadman Bros., $1,000; A. Harly, $1,000.
These, which we recall on the spur of the moment, foot up nearly three hundred thousand dollars. We are confident that we are not exaggerating when we place the amount above five hundred thousand dollars, which shows a fair gain for our thriving little city.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1885.
Kroenert & Austin will occupy the central room under Highland Hall as soon as Ochs & Nicholson vacate. They expect to fill this room with a large and complete stock and run it in connection with their other store, the Diamond Front. These gentlemen are building up a business second to none in this city. They expect to build a large two-story, brick and stone building on their present site in the spring.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 18, 1885.
Mamma Hubbard.
The most successful of the season’s social events occurred last night at Highland Hall under the auspices of the Favorite Social Club. A large and select party of maskers were they, who glided about the hall in the many intricacies of the dance. A feast for the eyes was the many colors as they glided in and out in serpentine movements or moved along stately in massed colors. The beautiful costumes of the ladies, the grotesque and glaring ones of the gentlemen, called up scenes of oriental splendor and was soothing and calming while yet exciting to the lookers on. The names of those who were invited to the Ma Hubbard, were, so near as we could learn as follows.
C. H. Searing and wife.
S. Matlack and wife.
H. P. Farrar and wife.
F. W. Farrar and wife.
E. L. McDowell.
W. D. Mowry and wife.
C. C. Sollitt and wife.
J. V. Hull.
Frank Austin and wife.
John Kroenert and wife.
Al Heitkam.
C. O. Harris.
Dr. Westfall and wife.
John B. Walker and wife.
Matt Aldridge and wife.
C. R. Sipes and wife.
John Ingliss.
Will Griffith.
A. A. Newman and wife.
Wyard Gooch and wife.
L. N. Coburn.
A. V. Alexander and wife.
Dr. J. Vawter and wife.
Geo. Schmidt.
J. Landis and wife.
Frank Beall and wife.
C. G. Thompson and wife.
J. H. Hilliard and wife.
Joe Finkleburg.
J. A. McIntyre and wife.
E. L. Kingsbury.
F. K. Grosscup.
A. D. Ayres and wife.
Thos. Kimmel and wife.
Will Moore and wife.
Ivan Robinson.
J. C. Topliff.
Will Thompson.
R. E. Grubbs and wife.
Chas. Schiffbauer and wife.
L. H. Northey.
O. Ingersoll and wife.
Chas. Chapel.
Lute Coombs.
P. L. Snyder.
J. W. Heck and wife.
Frank Thompson.
Sherman Tompson.
W. A. Daniels.
F. B. Willitts.
Jerry Adams.
Sept. Andrews.
Will L. Aldridge.
A. J. Pyburn.
S. B. Reed.
Dr. S. B. Parsons.
Dr. M. B. Vawter.
Dr. J. A. Mitchell.
Isaac Ochs and wife.
H. Nicholson.
Frank Hutchison.
R. P. Hutchison and wife.
Herman Wyckoff.
F. J. Sweeny and wife.
J. L. Huey and wife.
R. B. Norton.
Chas. Hutchins and wife.
Cal. Dean and wife.
C. M. Scott and wife.
Frank J. Hess and wife.
R. U. Hess.
R. L. Howard and wife.
Dr. H. D. Kellogg and wife.
H. P. Standley and wife.
E. O. Stevenson and wife.
H. H. Perry and wife.
G. W. Cunningham and wife.
J. G. Shelden and wife.
Sam Wyle.
Maj. M. S. Hasie and wife.
Chs. Hilliard.
Tillie Crawford.
J. W. Duncan.
O. H. Fitch.
James Ridenour and wife.
S. B. Read and wife.
J. R. Rogers and wife.
Tip Davenport and wife.
E. W. Weston, of Wellington, Kansas.
Ed. Cole and wife.
Lafe Tomlin and wife.
Ed. McMullen, of Winfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
Kroenert & Austin are getting ready to occupy the room just vacated by Ochs & Nicholson.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 18, 1885.
C. W. Terwilliger is clerking for Kroenert & Austin, in their new store.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 18, 1885.
Kroenert & Austin have opened up their branch store in Highland Hall block; and Frank, Joe, and C. W. Terwilliger now stand ready to compete with John, George, and Andrew, of the old Diamond Front Store. Their new store looks neat and nice, and will draw trade.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 18, 1885.
BIG AD. REMOVED! REMOVED! REMOVED!
Owing to our rapidly increasing business we have been forced to seek more commodious quarters, and can be found at our former stand, and directly across the street, where we will be glad to see our former customers.
Our store is now the largest in the county, and with our increased facility, we can accommodate all demands. KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 22, 1885.
DISASTROUS FIRE.
Half a Block on Summit Street Goes Up In Smoke.
On Monday night about 11:30 the cry of fire was raised. Among the first attracted by the alarm were Frank Schiffbauer, mayor of the city, and Capt. Rarick, deputy sheriff, who were just parting for the night on the First National Bank corner. They ran in the direction of the cry, and seeing a blaze in the rear of the New York Restaurant, ran for the hose reel, and in five or six minutes returned to the same. The flames had burst forth in the meantime, and were making rapid headway, the building being of frame, and similar buildings adjoining it on both sides. A crowd gathered, and among the foremost to act was Charley Halloway, who kicked in the glazed door of Grimes & Son’s drug store, and walked through the building with a view of saving its contents. He found the fire had extended to the rear portion of the store, and an explosion of some vessel a short distance in front of him, which scattered fragments wounding both his hands, cautioned him that he was in an unsafe place. An attempt was made to attach the hose to the hydrant, but some trouble was experienced in detaching the cap. During this while the flames spread rapidly, the wind which fortunately was light, driving the fire in the direction of Central Avenue. Heitkam’s tailor store and a barber shop were on the lot south of the New York Restaurant, and the occupants were promptly on hand to save their stock and furniture from the devouring element. Mr. Heitkam saved half of his stock of cloth and made up suits, but the frame buildings with their combustible contents, burned so fiercely that the feeble efforts at extinguishing it were hardly perceptible. In half an hour the buildings extending north to Central Avenue were in a blaze, and it was evident that no power could be exerted to save them. Crowds of men worked diligently to rescue what was portable, but confusion prevailed, and there was no intelligent direction given to their efforts. The St. Louis Restaurant, Grimes & Son’s drug store, Bundrem’s butcher shop, and Means’ implement store were by 12 o’clock in the vortex of the flames, and brief time was afforded the willing workers to rescue the doomed property from destruction. To save Mowry & Sollitt’s brick drug store, Kroenert & Austin’s grocery store, on the lot adjoining, was pulled down, which stopped the progress of the flames in a southward direction. Mowry & Sollitt, fearing their store would be involved, began moving their stock; but on the suggestion of Capt. Thompson that the risk was less to let their goods remain, the hasty tearing up was discontinued, and they escaped with slight loss. Being checked on the south side and isolated at the other end by the width of the street, the fire abated about an hour after a bad burst forth, and spread over no more territory. The stream from the hydrant was kept up through the night cooling the smoldering embers, and when the business of the next day opened, the sight was presented to the beholder of half a block on our main business street being laid in ruins. D. L. Means loses $3,000 in his stock, his insurance is $1,000. Kroenert & Austin suffer quite as seriously. C. A. Burnett estimates his loss at $2,400; he has $1,500 insurance. The buildings being rated as extra hazardous, and the rate of insurance 7 percent, owners and occupants were chary of securing themselves on heavy sums. The following is a list of the losses and insurance.
Lot 1. Lot and building owned by W. Benedict. Insured for $500. Occupied by D. L. Means, insured in North American for $1,000.
Lot 2. Lot and building owned by Dr. Shepard. Insured for $800 in Springfield Insurance Co. Occupied by Charley Bundrem as a meat market, who was insured for $300 in the New York Alliance, and by J. T. Grimes & Son, druggists, who carried $500 insurance in the Pennsylvania and the same amount in the Liverpool, London & Globe.
Lot 3. Lot and building owned by Mrs. Benedict and occupied by C. A. Burnett, as the St. Louis Restaurant. Building uninsured; stock insured for $1,500 in equal amounts in the Mechanics of Milwaukee, the Northwestern National, and the Connecticut.
Lot 4. Lot and building owned by S. H. Pickle, who is now absent in Springlake, Ohio. Occupied by O. F. Lang as the New York Restaurant. Stock insured for $500 in the Home Mutual.
Lot 5, with the frame building thereon, is owned by J. H. Sherburne—uninsured. Its occupants were A. G. Heitkam, tailor, insured for $800; half in the Glens’ Falls and half in the Fire Insurance of England; and a German barber, who carried no insurance.
Lot 6, and the grocery that stood thereon, were owned and occupied by Kroenert & Austin, who carried $500 insurance on the building in the North American, and the same amount on the stock.
INCIDENTS.
Mr. Hollaway [EARLIER THEY HAD HALLOWAY ???] received a severe bruise in the hand from an ax in the hands of an excited individual, who brought his weapon down on the hydrant while he was unscrewing the cap with a wrench.
The insurance of Dr. Shepard on his building ran out at noon on the day of the fire; but his agent, Frank Hess, had written him another policy, thus saving him from loss.
It is said that Charley Bundrem had $187 in greenbacks placed under his pillow, which went to feed the flames.
The fall of an awning struck City Marshal Gray to the ground, and he came near being badly scorched.
A young man in the employ of C. A. Burnett lost everything in the fire except the clothes he stands in.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 29, 1885.
Fire Losses Paid.
Frank Hess reports the following claims paid to his burnt out customers.
D. L. Means, $1,000, by the North American.
Dr. Shepard, $800 by the Springfield.
Charley Bundrem, $260 by the New York Alliance.
The losses of Kroenert & Austin and J. T. Grimes & Son are under adjustment. The Commercial Union has paid Charles Bundrem $275 on his refrigerator. This risk was carried by Snyder & Hutchison. The claims of the other losers insured with them are now being adjusted and will be promptly paid.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 29, 1885.
Fire Insurance Rules.
The following points in insurance are given for the benefit of my patrons.
The use of gasoline in stoves requires a written permit endorsed on policy.
A mortgage taken on property requires a similar permit.
Sale of property voids a policy, but policy will remain valid if transferred to purchaser.
More than five days’ carpenter work on a building voids a policy unless the same is endorsed thereon.
Over thirty days’ vacancy of a house vitiates a policy unless permission is endorsed thereon. FRANK J. HESS.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 5, 1885.
OUR WATER SUPPLY.
Inquiring Parties Want to Know What Kind of An Arrangement It Is.
The day following the fire in this city, some enterprising genius, who had no proper regard for the truth, sent the following press dispatch over the wires.
“The largest fire that ever occurred in Arkansas City broke out this forenoon, burning a half block of frame buildings. The origin of the fire has not yet been ascertained. Seven stores, including Kroenert & Austin’s wholesale grocery house, and D. L. Means’ implement house were burned. Total loss, $25,000; insurance $12,000.”
The dispatch further says: “Our water works were a complete failure, as usual, and the city fathers are being censured by everyone.”
This was published far and wide in the papers, and very soon an avalanche of letters began to flow in on Mayor Schiffbauer. The mayor of Paola wrote that water works were about to be built in that city, and said, “If you can give me any weak points in your system, the information may be of service to us.” The mayor of Lyons, Kansas, said: “I see by the papers that your city has had a fire, the largest that ever happened to you.” The writer of the statement says, “Our water works were a complete failure. Water works are something I want to learn about.” The writer then asks an infinity of questions, assigning as a reason, “We are getting ready to build water works here; I feel interested in the enterprise and would like you to give me all the information you have.”
Arkansas City Traveler, September 9, 1885.
Joseph Smith, salesman for Kroenert & Austin, is down with a severe attack of malarial fever.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 9, 1885.
A dispatch to John Kroenert on Monday, from Anthony, informed him of a fire which occurred in that city the night previous, wherein the grocery house of Kroenert Bros., was among the victims. The fire is said to have started in a bakery, and the buildings on six adjoining lots were destroyed by fire before the flames were subdued. John Bayne, formerly of this city, is reported among the sufferers. At this writing the amount of damage is not known. The insurance on Kroenert Bros., is given at $750.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, September 16, 1885.
The Fire at Anthony.
At 1:30 o’clock Sunday morning, the citizens of Anthony were aroused from their slumber by the firing of revolvers and the yelling of fire! Fire! It was soon discovered that the bakery of Geo. McKnight, opposite the Union block, was on fire, which spread rapidly on either side, and in a few minutes the flames and dark clouds of smoke were rising into the firelit heavens, and the large crowd that had gathered there could do nothing but stand and witness one of the largest conflagrations that ever visited that city. The parties that were burned out are as follows: Geo. McKnight, city bakery; L. B. Forbes, grocery; Kroenert Bros., grocery; M. A. Hall & Co., Daily News office; Dr. Hull’s office; Mrs. Bullock’s millinery; Will Hart’s photograph gallery, and Costa & Ghio’s hardware. The loss is very heavy, but most of the sufferers were insured and some of them got out most of their goods. The Daily News had just been located and intended to commence issuing its daily this week. Most of the type was saved but the large power press lies in the ruins and the large job press was broken all to pieces trying to get it out. The buildings were all old and made a tremendous hot fire, breaking several large plate glass on the opposite side of the street, and also scorching the buildings. The parties that arrived on the scene first report that they could have easily put the fire out but could find no buckets or well to get water from. We think it is high time that Anthony was organizing a fire company. Mid Lothian Sun.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 16, 1885.
Kroenert & Austin have a handsome new delivery wagon.
KROENERT & AUSTIN,
THE DIAMOND FRONT WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS.
-WE BUY- Butter, Eggs, Hides, Furs, Game, and Produce.
-WE SELL- Everything in the Staple or Fancy Grocery Line.
Carrying the largest and an exclusive stock of Groceries, we are enabled to supply the wants of a general Public.
A free delivery inside City limits.
TELEPHONE CONNECTION.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 30, 1885.
In the burnt district, S. B. Pickle, Dr. Shepard, and Kroenert & Austin are excavating for new buildings. Mrs. Benedict and J. H. Sherburne will also start in a few days. Postmaster Topliff will shortly start on the erection of a fifty foot business building south of the Hasie block, and other similar improvements are under consideration.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 25, 1885.
D. D. Bishop and J. E. Beck, contractors and masons, returned from the territory a few days ago, where they have been building a stone basement, 30 x 32, for a fine two-story dwelling for S. E. Lawrence, manager of the Hewins Cattle Ranch. Lawrence is located near Osage Agency, in a beautiful valley.
Mr. Bishop is now building the stone business house on Summit Street for Kroenert & Austin, and will have it completed in a few days, if the weather continues favorable.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
Joseph Smith, salesman in Kroenert & Austin’s store, who has been spending two months with friends in Des Moines, Iowa, will return to Arkansas City next week, feeling himself fully restored to health.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 19, 1885.
[SIGN OF A DIAMOND WITH THE WORDS “THE DIAMOND FRONT”.]
KROENERT & AUSTIN, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS.
Down, Down, Down! Cash! Cash! Cash!
Our cash prices for holidays are lower than ever offered to the Citizens of Arkansas City and Vicinity before.
We are reducing our immense stock preparatory to moving into our new quarters.
These prices we offer for a period of 30 days only. Come at once before you are too late.
“TALK IS CHEAP BUT MONEY BUYS LAND.”
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
Kroenert & Austin rigged up a handsome Christmas tree in their show-window for Christmas, as did also J. Frank Smith. Both trees were handsomely decorated.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 30, 1885.
The Y. M. C. A. will hold a public devotional exercise in their rooms in the Commercial block on next Sabbath afternoon at 3 p.m. Subject: “Prayer and Faith.” Everyone will please bring his Bible and Gospel Hymns.
The Central Hotel is now placed in the business focus of the city, and as a consequence its tables are a general resort. The proprietor, A. E. Kirkpatrick, is radiant over his increasing business, and welcomes his guests with generous fare and hospitable smiles.
Frank Austin spent Christmas week with his family and friends in Leavenworth. He returned home yesterday, but Mrs. Austin will prolong her visit for several weeks. Joseph Smith, the convalescent salesman for Kroenert & Austin, took hold during Frank’s absence.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 6, 1886.
Kroenert & Austin have a panther skin hanging at their door, which attracts great curiosity. The animal it covered was shot by William Christie on the Cimmaron, and must have been an ugly customer to jostle against. They have a beaver, also, on exhibition in their window, which is regarded by many passers-by with great interest.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 10, 1886.
THE DIAMOND FRONT.
KROENERT & AUSTIN, WHOLESALE AND RETAIL GROCERS.
-Dealers in- Hides, Game, Furs, and COUNTRY PRODUCE.
Free delivery inside city limits. We are now closing out our Immense Stock preparatory to removing into our new store rooms. Come at once for bargains.
TELEPHONE CONNECTIONS.
[NOTICE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, February 10, 1886.
Notice. The public is hereby notified that Geo. W. Vaughn is no longer in our employ, and persons owing us are cautioned against paying him money on our account.
KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Republican, February 20, 1886.
Wm. O’Gilva is, beyond a doubt, the best and most artistic painter and paper hanger in Southern Kansas. As another evidence of the above, a representative of the REPUBLICAN was shown the inside painting of the residence of John Kroenert. The ceilings of the double parlors in the center are finished in Olive tint, surrounded by oil Fresco. The walls are finished with good paper, with hand decorated corners. The two bed-rooms are finished off with Flat paper with blue-tinted wood-work. To say this job of painting is elegant is but mildly putting it; it is superb.
Arkansas City Republican, February 20, 1886.
The Diamond Front’s new room will be completed and occupied by Kroenert & Austin, about March 10.
[ADS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 24, 1886.
IN PEACE PREPARE FOR WAR.
In Seed Time for a Harvest.
SEEDS! SEEDS! SEEDS!
We have just received the largest shipment of Bulk and Package seeds ever received at Arkansas City. Come early as spring is at hand. Field, grass, and flower seeds in any variety. Two carloads of seed potatoes consisting of a large variety suitable to this climate now on hand. Liberal discounts to dealers or in quantities. KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 24, 1886.
This mild spring weather directs the attention of farmers and city lot owners to their fields and gardens, and plowing and sowing will soon be active industries. Kroenert & Austin announce a fine assortment of seeds on sale in their store, and those in want of the same will take a timely hint.
Arkansas City Republican, March 20, 1886.
Kroenert & Austin supplied the Santa Fe surveyors with provisions and feed to carry them on their survey through the Territory.
Arkansas City Republican, April 10, 1886.
Kroenert & Austin have commenced to remove their mammoth stock into their new and commodious store room.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Any quantity of large German Millet to be had at Kroenert & Austin’s. Price $1 per bushel.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Being overstocked on California canned goods, in order to close them out, we offer the consumer goods at following prices, bringing them within reach of our humblest citizen all put up in syrup. Cans two and one-half pounds each.
J. Lusks famous brand Apricots, 20 cents.
Egg Plums, 20 cents.
Green Gage Plums, 20 cents.
Peaches, 25 cents.
Bartlett Pears, 25 cents.
Raspberries, 25 cents.
Quinces, 23 cents.
Currants, 25 cents.
Black Cherries, 25 cents.
Grapes, 20 cents.
In buying please refer to this advertisement.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
George Kroenert returned to Wichita Wednesday.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Geo. Kroenert, of Wichita, was in the city the first of the week. Mr. Kroenert is a brother of Johnnie Kroenert, of the Diamond Front. He was so well pleased with our city that he invested quite largely in real estate. Among his investments was the purchase of the McLaughlin Bros.’ store room, north of Highland Opera House block. The consideration was $6,500. Mr. Kroenert is one of Wichita’s most enterprising businessmen.
Arkansas City Republican, April 24, 1886.
Genuine Amber and Orange Sugar Cane seed at Kroenert & Austin’s. Prices $1.00 per bushel.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 28, 1886.
George Kroenert, of Wichita, last week purchased of T. H. McLaughlin the property on Summit Street where R. A. Houghton & Co., have their store. The price paid was $6,500.
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
STILL WE BOOM!!
The Land Slides of the Week.
Monday morning Lyman Fairclo sold his house and three lots in the 4th ward to John Carder for $1,000.
Johnnie Kroenert purchased of Wm. Blakeney 10 acres of land in Duncan addition, paying $1,500 for it.
Dr. J. A. Mitchell purchased 4 lots of Johnnie Kroenert in Ward No. 1 for $700 Tuesday.
Johnnie Kroenert purchased three lots of Wm. Curtis, in the 4th ward, for $600.
S. E. Maxwell to J. Kroenert, 2 lots, $125.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, May 29, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Robt. Husey, of Leavenworth, is visiting in the city at the residence of Johnnie Kroenert. Mr. Husey is an intimate friend of Mr. Kroenert, having known him ever since childhood.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 5, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
We notice that Kroenert & Austin of the Diamond Front have put on a bran new delivery wagon. Their large and increasing business necessitates the use of two.
[ADS.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 5, 1886.
[SIGN OF DIAMOND WITH THE WORDS “THE DIAMOND FRONT”]
Kroenert & Austin, Wholesale and Retail Dealers in Groceries, Hides, Furs, Game, AND Country Produce. Telephone Connections. Free Delivery inside of City Limits.
Arkansas City Republican, May 15, 1886.
STILL WE BOOM!!
The Land Slides of the Week.
Monday morning Lyman Fairclo sold his house and three lots in the 4th ward to John Carder for $1,000.
Johnnie Kroenert purchased of Wm. Blakeney 10 acres of land in Duncan addition, paying $1,500 for it.
Dr. J. A. Mitchell purchased 4 lots of Johnnie Kroenert in Ward No. 1 for $700 Tuesday.
Johnnie Kroenert purchased three lots of Wm. Curtis, in the 4th ward, for $600.
[ARKANSAS CITY: REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS.]
Arkansas City Republican, May 22, 1886.
Real Estate Transfers of Monday and Tuesday.
FRANK J. HESS.
S. E. Maxwell to J. Kroenert, 2 lots, $125.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 12, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Mrs. Johnnie Kroenert has gone to Kansas City on a visit.
Arkansas City Republican, June 19, 1886.
Police Court.
Monday Judge Bryant shed his ulster and set himself on ice to keep cool. Cases came in thick and fast. The following were the ones disposed of.
Nellie Tartar was arrested for prostitution; but before the judge, plead not guilty. Her trial was set for Tuesday morning. She was turned loose upon her recognizance, with hopes that she would emigrate to some other seaport and not stand trial. Nellie has been fore his honor several times and heretofore always plead guilty.
B. G. Kirker was introduced to the power that rules the police court, because he failed to clean up his backyard according to the city ordinance. He plead guilty and was fined $1 and costs, total $5.
E. B. Hutchison was taken into the “fold” with the same charge as above against him and received like treatment; also Kroenert & Austin. Sept. Andrews was taken in on the same charge; but upon inspection, his backyard was found to be clean, so he was discharged, the police judge patting him on the back as he went out the door for being so good a boy.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 19, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
Monday Kroenert & Austin received official notice that they had been awarded the contract for furnishing four car-loads of salt to the Chilocco Indian schools this year. Kroenert & Austin had over 500 competitors bidding against them, and yet they got there, Eli, and don’t you forget it. Searing & Mead have the flour contract; and Bower & Wood have the meat contract. If Arkansas City possessed no other advantage for becoming a city, the Indian Trade alone would almost make one of her.
[OFFER BY KROENERT & AUSTIN.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 19, 1886.
A Handsome Picture Given Away.
We will for 30 days, with four cans of Baking Powder, present you with a handsome oil chromo; size 18 x 24, guilt framed; price at any stationery store in the vicinity, $4.50. Come and see them. KROENERT & AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
Johnnie Kroenert is visiting the surrounding towns and selling them groceries. Yesterday he shipped two wagon loads of goods to Hackney. The Diamond Front is doing quite a wholesale business.
[AD.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
[ILLUSTRATION OF ITEM (CHURN, I RECKON).
For Sale by Kroenert & Austin. Try our Churn.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Last July, almost one year ago, Kroenert & Austin, of this city, were burned out. Two months later the firm of Kroenert Bros., at Anthony, had their store burned. Last week H. M. Austin, brother of Frank, had his business at Leavenworth destroyed by fire. The fire fiend appears to be an enemy of these two families.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Yesterday Kroenert & Austin received a telegram from Chas. Hunt, of Keokuk, Iowa, informing them he would take the storeroom occupied by them under Highland Opera House. Mr. Hunt will remove here shortly and establish the finest meat market in southwest Kansas. In the winter the packing of meats will be made a specialty.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 3, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Kroenert & Austin sold Wednesday to a party who will open a new store in Geuda Springs, an $800 stock of groceries. Walker is the name of the gentleman who will run the enterprise.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Mrs. Johnnie Kroenert returned from her visit to Kansas City yesterday.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Kroenert & Austin, this morning, wholesaled to one firm six wagon loads of goods.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 10, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Kroenert & Austin yesterday received several crates of fruit, plums and peaches, direct from Penryn, California.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 24, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Joe Smith, formerly with Kroenert & Austin, is now with Geo. E. Hasie & Co., where he will be glad to see all his old friends.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 7, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Kroenert & Austin sold a bill of $3,200 worth of groceries to the firm of Price & McGavock, grading contractors on the Santa Fe, last week.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 7, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
A gentleman who was stopping in the city a few days last week noticed 12 teams being loaded with groceries in front of Kroenert & Austin’s Diamond Front. To a friend who was showing him over the city, he asked: “Where is that store moving to?” When he was informed that it was only a bill of goods which had just been sold being taken out, he could scarcely credit it. That is the kind of a trade the merchants of Arkansas City enjoy.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, August 11, 1886.
Joe Smith, formerly with Kroenert & Austin, is now with Geo. E. Hasie & Co., where he will be pleased to see all his old friends.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 11, 1886.
Kroenert & Austin received a heavy consignment of goods yesterday.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 21, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Kroenert & Austin have averaged loading four wagons per day with provisions for the Santa Fe employees down in the Territory for the past two weeks. Our merchants are furnishing supplies to about 1,500 men, as well as their teams, at present.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 4, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
Mrs. Chas. Beck, of Kansas City, is visiting in the city. She is the mother of Mrs. Johnnie Kroenert.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 11, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
The lot and business house belonging to Kroenert & Austin and occupied by them was sold this morning to Mrs. Charles Beck, of Kansas City.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 15, 1886.
On Thursday Kroenert & Austin sold a car load of goods to W. Garland, a contractor on the Santa Fe road, now building through the territory. The shipment weighed 22,800 lbs.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 15, 1886.
On Monday Jerome Steele sold his home and two lots, on North Summit Street, to H. O. Meigs for $4,000. Kroenert & Austin have also disposed of their store building to Mrs. Beck, of Kansas City. Consideration, $9,000.
[BOGUS CATTLE KINGS.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 2, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Bogus Cattle Kings.
It is not frequent that any of our merchants get taken in, but Saturday a couple of well dressed cowboys played a sleek game upon some of them. They first visited the Eagle Clothing Store, became acquainted with the manager, and introduced themselves as the sons of a couple of cattle kings; that they had just brought up a thousand head of cattle to Cale for shipment, and that while waiting for cars, they would make all the necessary purchases. They ordered a bill of about $100 worth of goods. Some things were not in stock at the Eagle store, so Mr. Johnson procured them elsewhere, paying the cash for them. Upon the completion of their order, the boys took their departure, saying they would send a wagon after their goods in the morning and settle for them. They went into the Diamond Front Grocery and there introduced themselves in the same manner to Johnnie Kroenert. After taking up about four hours of precious time, they purchased about $300 worth of groceries, smoking cigars and drinking cider all the time at the expense of the firm. One of them saw a handsome cigar holder, which he concluded to buy at $2. He took the holder and told Johnnie to attach it to his other bill and departed, telling him to have everything ready by morning as he would be after them with teams. They visited Sept. Andrews and C. E. Salisbury & Co., and went through the same programme. The Diamond Front worked hard the greater portion of the night tying up groceries. Sunday morning Wallace & Huff backed up their drays at the rear of the store, ready to receive the goods and convey them to Cale as soon as they were paid for. The wait was long and patient, but no cowboys came. They have not been seen since and are now perhaps a few miles on this side of the Texas line enjoying the discomfiture of our merchants.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 2, 1886. From Tuesday’s Daily.
We see by the Wellington Postal Card that the two “bogus cattle king’s sons,” mentioned in yesterday’s daily, “took in” Wellington’s merchants last week in the same manner as they did ours. Johnnie Kroenert informs us he is getting all the glory, while in truth it belongs to his congenial partner, Frank Austin. It seems that Frank let them have some meerschaum cigar holders on trial, and the cowboys are still trying them.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 13, 1886.
There has been a change in the business of Kroenert & Austin, the latter having sold out his interest to his partner. The cause of this dissolution has not been made known, but it throws one of the best grocery trades in town into the hands of Mr. Kroenert. Mr. Austin, it is talked, will embark in the wholesale trade, in John L. Howard’s new store.
Arkansas City Republican, October 16, 1886.
The firm of Kroenert & Austin has dissolved, Mr. Kroenert having purchased the interest of Mr. Austin, in the business. He will continue the business at the old stand. Mr. Austin has not determined what he will do yet. He will rest up for a few weeks. The REPUBLICAN regrets to lose so good a man from active business life as Mr. Austin. We congratulate Mr. Kroenert on becoming the sole possessor of such a lucrative trade, which the firm has enjoyed in the past.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1886.
John Kroenert continues to do a heavy business. He would write up a new advertisement to fill the space occupied by the former firm of Kroenert & Austin, but cannot find time. We reserve the space till he has leisure to fill it.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1886.
C. L. Newton, of Louisville, Kentucky, is among the many businessmen attracted to this city, and he has found a nice location in the Eagle block, South Summit Street, where he has opened with a fresh stock of groceries. Geo. Vaughan, formerly salesman for Kroenert & Austin, and later with Hasie & Co., is interested in the business with Mr. Newton and the firm name will be Newton & Vaughan. The TRAVELER wishes them success.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 27, 1886.
Notice.
The co-partnership heretofore existing between John Kroenert and F. D. Austin under the firm name of Kroenert & Austin, has this day been mutual dissolved, John Kroenert assuming all liabilities of the firm and F. D. Austin collecting all accounts due said house.
F. D. AUSTIN, JNO. KROENERT.
In pursuance of the above notice, parties knowing themselves indebted to the above firm will confer a favor by setting their accounts at once. F. D. AUSTIN.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
J. Kroenert, of the Diamond Front, received this week one carload of sugar and one carload of canned fruits.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Received at the Diamond Front: fresh mince meat, fresh Swiss cheese, maple syrup, and buckwheat flour. J. KROENERT.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 3, 1886.
John Kroenert announces his large stock of groceries in our columns; and the rapid disposition he makes of them to families at home and to consumers at a distance is visible to all observers. The Diamond store has long been a favorite with the public, and under its present able and enterprising management we look to see its business increase.
THE DIAMOND FRONT [WRITTEN INSIDE OF A DIAMOND.]
JOHN KROENERT, (Successor to Kroenert & Austin), Wholesale and Retail Grocers, and dealers in Hides, Game, Furs, And County Produce.
I now offer to the public the most extensive stock of Staple and Fancy Groceries in the city which I am selling at the lowest prices to families and consumers.
Dealers, contractors, and stockmen can procure their supplies at the Diamond Store at St. Louis and Kansas City prices. Call and see for yourselves. Free delivery inside the city limits, and telephone connections.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 7, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
Fred Heisinger, of Geuda Springs, has taken a position in John Kroenert’s Diamond Front grocery.
[BUSINESS FIRM: AUSTIN BROTHERS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, November 10, 1886.
WHOLESALE GROCERY HOUSE.
The Austin Bros. Become Pioneers in a New Trade Departure.
The enterprising firm of Austin Bros., inaugurate a new departure in the commercial operations of this city. Their’s will be the first house opened in Arkansas City devoted exclusively to the jobbing trade. This is an outcome of the real estate boom that has prevailed in this city the past summer and fall, trebling and in some cases decoupling property values, raising some of our citizens to affluent circumstances, and bringing in investors and businessmen from all parts of the country. The impetus thus communicated to the trade of the city has assumed a permanent character, and with the extension of railroad communications, diversification of trade and manufacturing industry is looked for.
This new jobbing firm is composed of Frank Austin, formerly of the leading grocery house of Kroenert & Austin, of this city, and his brother, H. M. Austin, for many years financial manager of the extensive wholesale grocery house of Bitman & Taylor, of Leaven-worth. Frank Austin has been for six years a resident of this city, showing enterprise as a merchant and winning the confidence of all by his upright and honorable dealings. His knowledge of the grocery business was also gained in the above named Leavenworth house, for whom he traveled a number of years, thus gaining a widely extended trade acquaintance, and business methods which have been so useful to him in the business with which he was lately connected.
Mr. Frank Austin says he and his brother were influenced in selecting this city for their enterprise because they can see growth and prosperity for its portion. They command ample capital for the undertaking, and possess the same facilities for the purchase of goods as are enjoyed by the trade association. They propose to carry a $30,000 stock, and at the present writing are receiving their goods and are filling up their warehouse. Mr. Frank Austin, with his wife and child, will leave for Leavenworth today, and he will extend his trip to St. Louis about one week from now; he will return home with his brother. Then the two will apply themselves to building up a prosperous business. Mrs. Austin will remain with her friends in Leavenworth till the holidays are over. These gentlemen have the experience and business equipments to carry on their adventurous undertaking, and in their interest as well as for the good of the city, we heartily wish them success.
[NATIONAL NEWS.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 20, 1886. From Saturday’s Daily.
W. J. Flood, formerly connected with the construction company in the building of the G. S. C. & W. Railroad, was in our city Monday, selling goods for John Kroenert of Arkansas City. Geuda Springs Herald.
[NOTICES.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 20, 1886. From Wednesday’s Daily.
I take this means of informing my friends that I am now in business for myself, being associated with C. L. Newton. I am very grateful for favors while with Kroenert & Austin and Hasie and Co., and trust a kind continuance of the same. Very Truly,
GEO. W. VAUGHAN. Eagle Block, Opposite the Chicago Lumber Yard.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 20, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
John Kroenert, besides doing a mammoth retail grocery business, is also well up to the front of the procession in wholesaling. The Diamond Front building is replete with staple and fancy groceries. Mr. Kroenert is a rustler when it comes to selling groceries.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, November 20, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
You can find a complete line of fancy groceries at Kroenert’s. We just received a supply of buckwheat flour, maple syrup, prepared mustard in bulk, mince meat, all kinds of nuts and fancy candies, Swiss cheese, cream and Limburger cheese, celery, honey (both strained and in the comb), and other new goods too numerous to mention. At the Diamond Front.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 8, 1886.
From Our Exchanges.
GEUDA HERALD: Our town was well canvassed yesterday in the interest of Arkansas City grocery dealers. W. J. Flood was here taking orders for Kroenert’s house, Ed Knowles in the interest of Austin’s, and Mr. Smith from Hasie’s.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, December 18, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
You can find a full line of B. T. Babbitt’s soap and 1776 soap powder at Kroenert’s, who is agent.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 22, 1886.
BIRTH. Mrs. John Kroenert last week presented her husband with a bouncing daughter. The happy father is now the proudest man in the city.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 29, 1886.
Remembering the Poor.
We mentioned, a few weeks since, the misfortunes of a deserving family in the first ward, who lost their oldest son, a boy twelve years old, from typho-malaria, and their next boy, eighteen months younger, down with the same disease. They have since moved into the second ward somewhere near the Santa Fe track, the young sufferer still prostrate with this malady and the family suffering from extreme poverty. They do not belong to that class who are forward to make their wants known, and the ladies of the different church societies overlooked them while going about doing good. On Christmas eve, however, their condition became known to Capt. Rarick, who has a big heart to feel for another’s woe, and accompanied by a neighbor, Capt. M. V. Caller [? NOT SURE OF LAST NAME], who is here from Colorado to spend the winter, the two in a short collecting tour, gathered up $19.80, sufficient to make their beneficiaries a Happy Christmas. They took the money to the Diamond store, where they bought a turkey and half a wagon load of useful provisions. The proprietor, John Kroenert, sold the goods at cost, and threw in a sack of flour as a Christmas gift. E. D. Eddy also gave proof of his liberality by dispensing medicines for the sick child at a nominal cost. Dr. Grimes was detailed to deliver the goods, and he presented himself to the delighted family, a veritable Santa Claus.
[Caller could be Cutler, Cullor, etc. Just could not tell.]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 12, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.
My immense stock of garden and field seeds are arriving. A large assortment of seed potatoes can also be found at Kroenert’s Diamond Front.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 26, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.
Messrs. Kroenert and Allen sold their addition, north of the city, this morning, to R. R. Phelps, of Burden. There are three blocks of lots in the addition.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, April 2, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
W. J. Flood, traveling salesman for J. Kroenert’s grocery, returned this morning from a trip out to Bluff City, Caldwell, Geuda Springs, and other towns. He brought in with him a large batch of orders and the Diamond Front boys have been very busy today filling them.
Added item:
Arkansas City Traveler, Monday, December 28, 1896.
Jake Dawson went south this morning for Kroenert Bros. He is making N. K. Manning’s route this week. Mr. Manning is visiting in Missouri.
Year unknown on next item...Note by RKW.
A number of years ago Kroenert started a canning factory in connection with the wholesale business but on account of not being able to secure the right kind of fruits and vegetables to carry on this business, it was later abandoned.
The Kroenert Brothers Wholesale House was located at 601 South Summit Street and was closed in 1939. It had operated for 35 years. The location later became Acton Manufacturing Co. It currently is a filling station belonging to Conoco.
