 |
Ira L. McCommon
Winfield Merchant.
Winfield Directory 1880.
Johnson, Mrs. S. D., r. I. L. McCommon.
Johnson, W., student, r. I. L. McCommon.
McCommon, Miss S. J., r. with Rev. J. E. Platter.
McCommon, I. L., r. Menor e. s. bet Court House and Maple.
FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
Note: In July 1876 B. F. Baldwin was the sole proprietor of the drug store in Winfield, which he started calling the “City Drug Store.” Prior to this time he had gone through the experience of having partners and different people handling drugs for him.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
MR. IRA McCOMMON is manipulating the quinine and tooth brushes at the City drug store. Baldwin attends to the notions, etc., and waits on the ladies.
Winfield Courier, January 25, 1877.
Ira McCommon is B. F. Baldwin’s druggist.
Winfield Courier, January 25, 1877.
We were happy to meet Mr. Ira McCommon, brother-in-law of Rev. Platter, again upon our streets. He arrived last Monday evening, and expects to remain with us.
Winfield Courier, August 16, 1877.
Dr. Mansfield has sold his drug store and business. Ira McCommon, clerk at B. F. Baldwin’s, takes charge of the establishment.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877.
IRA McCOMMON and Jos. Harter have bought out the drug store of A. H. Green and will continue the business under the firm name of McCommon & Harter. Both are industrious, enterprising, and careful young men; with good habits and the good will of the whole community. Of course they will succeed.
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1877.
McCommon & Harter, at A. H. Green’s old stand, have a full stock of Drugs, which they offer at the lowest prices. Special attention paid to prescriptions. Give them a call.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
McCommon & Harter have just received a complete stock of paints, oils, and varnishes; also school books and new goods for the holidays. They will be found at the corner drug store, opposite the post office.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
Mr. J. T. Weston, late of Creston, Iowa, has been stopping for a few weeks in our city, and has decided to permanently locate among us. He is building a business house on 9th avenue, just east of McCommon & Harter’s drug store, in which he intends engaging in the stove and tinware business. Mr. Weston is a good workman and will give general satisfaction.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
McCommon & Harter have a new sign.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1878.
Notice to Sunday Schools. McCommon & Harter will supply you with the Sunday School Times, Scholars’ Quarterly, and Weekly lesson leaves; also have on hand a large assortment of bibles, testaments, and psalms.
McCOMMON & HARTER, Opposite the post office.
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.
Ira McCommon has the cutest little buffalo robe you ever saw. Call and see it.
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.
Notice the new “ad.” of J. T. Weston & Co. They are the best kind of workmen and will supply tin work and stoves at prices and of quality that will be sure to please.
AD: LOOK To Your Interest! J. T. WESTON & CO. have just opened a new Stove and Tin Store. Job Work & Roofing a Specialty. Prices Lower than the Lowest.
Ninth Avenue, Winfield, Kansas.
Next Door East of McCommon & Harter’s drug store.
Winfield Courier, April 11, 1878.
Dramatic Entertainment.
At the courthouse, Monday evening, April 15th.
First act of “Rip Van Winkle,” with Chas. McGinnis as Rip.
Violin duet by the Roberts Brothers.
To conclude with “The Persecuted Dutchman.”
Reserved seats 35 cents; for sale at McCommon & Harter’s.
Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.
McCommon & Harter have received two large, elegant show cases, which show off to advantage in their well stocked room.
Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.
Musical Entertainment. The Winfield Orchestra Band will give an entertainment in the Courthouse on Friday evening, April 26th. The band will be assisted by some of the best vocalists in the city. The performance will close with the laughable Irish sketch, “Rascal Pat.,” under the supervision of Charles McGinnis.
The proceeds of the entertainment will go to provide instruments and music for the orchestra. Admission, 25 cents, Reserved seats 35 cents, for sale at McCommon and Harter’s.
Winfield Courier, May 2, 1878.
McCommon & Harter have some of the finest new show-cases we have seen.
Winfield Courier, August 1, 1878.
Miss McCommon, of Chillicothe, Ohio, sister of Mrs. J. E. Platter, is visiting in the city. She expects to remain for several months.
Winfield Courier, August 15, 1878.
News room with all the late papers at McCommon & Harter’s Drug Store.
Winfield Courier, August 29, 1878.
FIRST FRUIT. J. P. Short is again in the market with peaches, and people who have been waiting on him can now be supplied. See his “ad.” in another column.
PEACHES. I am now prepared to deliver fine canning fruit; large white and yellow clings for preserving and picnicking, and fruit suitable for drying and peach butter. Leave word for me at McCommon & Harter’s drug store and I will call and take your orders.
J. P. SHORT.
Winfield Courier, October 3, 1878.
Concert at the Courthouse. A grand concert will be held at the courthouse on Friday evening next under the auspices of the I. O. O. F. The best musical talent of the city will perform on that occasion and the proceeds will be applied for the relief of THE YELLOW FEVER SUFFERERS of the South. Let everyone turn out and enjoy a rich treat and at the same time relieve suffering humanity. Admission 35 cents; reserved seats 50 cents, to be had at McCommon and Harter’s drug store.
Winfield Courier, October 17, 1878.
Dave Harter is stopping in McCommon & Harter’s drug store while Joe is gone on his wedding trip.
Note: There was no formal announcement, but it appears that Seward’s partner, State Senator A. J. Pyburn, separated circa October 1877 when A. J. Pyburn temporarily set up his law office at Curns & Manser.
[ATTORNEYS’ CARDS.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 14, 1878. Front page.
O. M. SEWARD, ATTORNEY AT LAW, WILL PRACTICE IN THE STATE AND FEDERAL COURTS, AND PROMPTLY ATTEND TO ALL LEGAL BUSINESS ENTRUSTED TO HIS CARE. OFFICE OVER McCOMMON & HARTER’S DRUG STORE, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
In November 1878 for a short period of time Drs. Black & Emerson maintained offices in space rented by O. M. Seward...
Winfield Courier, November 14, 1878.
DRS. BLACK & EMERSON, PHYSICIANS, SURGEONS AND OBSTETRICIANS,
will attend to calls promptly in city or country. Particular attention given to Surgery and Diseases of Women and Children.
Microscopy and chemical analysis a specialty. Office in McCommon & Harter’s drug store, upstairs.
[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]
Winfield Courier, December 12, 1878.
Council met in council chamber on December 9, 1878.
Present: J. B. Lynn, Mayor; Councilmen Gully, Manning, and Wood. Councilman Jochems, having moved outside the city limits, his name was dropped.
Action taken on the following bills.
J. P. Short, City Clerk: $10.00.
Harter & McCommon, merchandise: $3.05.
Winfield Courier, December 19, 1878.
The Cantata of the Flower Queen. This beautiful cantata will be presented to the citizens of Winfield and vicinity at MANNING’S OPERA HOUSE, on Thursday and Friday evenings, December 26 and 27. It will be performed by a full orchestra of the best musical talent in Winfield, under the direction of Prof. C. Farringer. The proceeds will be applied to organize a permanent musical society at this place. Tickets will be on sale at McCommon & Harter’s drug store.
Winfield Courier, December 26, 1878.
If the party that received (by mistake) a five dollar gold piece ($5.00) Saturday at McCommon & Harter’s drug store, will return the same and oblige McCOMMON & HARTER.
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
Listed as a Courier Advertiser:
McCOMMON & HARTER are young druggists of character, industry, and affability. They were schooled in drug stores and understand their business. They pay careful attention to prescriptions, which they make a specialty. They have a newsstand and various other accessories to their trade.
[ATTORNEY CARDS. (WINFIELD)]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
O. M. SEWARD, ATTORNEY AT LAW. OFFICE OVER McCOMMON & HARTER’S DRUG STORE, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
Emerson had ceased his partnership with Dr. Black within a very short time and maintained his office along with Seward in space above McCommon & Harter’s Drug Store...
[PROFESSIONAL CARDS (WINFIELD)]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
DR. GEO. EMERSON, PHYSICIAN, SURGEON AND OBSTETRICIAN. OFFICE IN McCOMMON & HARTER’S DRUG STORE, UPSTAIRS.
[COWLEY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.]
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1879.
Board of County Commissioners met in regular session [January 6, 1879]. Present: R. F. Burden, W. M. Sleeth, and G. L. Gale, commissioners, James McDermott, county attorney, and M. G. Troup, county clerk.
Among other proceedings had, bills against the county were presented and passed upon by the board as follows.
McCommon & Harter, merchandise.
McCommon, brother-in-law of Platter, was related to Ira L. McCommon...
[SALT CITY CORRESPONDENT: “RUDY.”]
Winfield Courier, February 13, 1879.
SALT CITY, KS., Feb. 11, 1879.
Henry Pruden has sold considerable of his stock and has rented his farm to Mr. Rice for a term of three years. Mr. McCommon, brother-in-law of Mr. Platter, has arrived and will succeed Mr. Thompson in command of the Platter farm. Mr. Berkey, “our merchant,” has so far recovered from his illness as to be able to visit the metropolis today.
Winfield Courier, March 20, 1879.
McCommon & Harter have a miniature aquarium on exhibition in their front window, in which they have confined several specimens of that historic fish known as the “sucker.”
[WINFIELD CITY COUNCIL.]
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1879.
WINFIELD, KANS., Mar. 24, 1879. Council met at usual time and place, Mayor Lynn in chair. Present, councilmen Jochems, Manning, and Wood.
Bill allowed and ordered paid.
McCommon & Harter, stationery, etc. $1.70.
[WINFIELD BUSINESS.]
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1879.
The following is a list of the principal business firms of Winfield.
DRUG STORES.
McCommon & Harter, Brown & Glass, Ed. G. Cole, J. Fleming. Giles Bros., Johnston & Lockwood.
Winfield Courier, May 8, 1879.
McCommon & Harter now proclaim to the world that they will give a thimble full of lemon juice with four ounces of squirt for half a dime.
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1879.
Smoke the “Laurel Wreath,” the best five cent cigar in the market; at McCommon & Harter’s drug store.
[ATTORNEY CARDS.]
Winfield Courier, August 28, 1879.
O. M. SEWARD, ATTORNEY AT LAW. Will practice in the State and Federal Courts, and promptly attend to all Legal Business entrusted to his care.
Office over McCommon & Harter’s Drug Store, Winfield, Kansas.
Winfield Courier, October 2, 1879.
McCommon & Harter last week received two large show cases, and also a lot of goods to put in them. They now have the neatest drug store in the city.
Winfield Courier, November 6, 1879.
Ira McCommon is again able to attend to business.
[MARRIED: IRA McCOMMON AND NINA JOHNSON.]
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
Married at the residence of the bride’s mother, on New Year’s eve, by Rev. J. E. Platter, Mr. Ira McCommon and Miss Nina Johnson.
[INFORMATION ABOUT E. T. JOHNSON - IN ARIZONA.]
Winfield Courier, January 22, 1880.
Most of our readers will be interested in the letter on the first page of this paper from Mr. Ed. T. Johnson, in Arizona, giving a vivid pen picture of life and mining in that state. Mr. Johnson is a son of Mrs. S. B. Johnson, and the late Rev. Johnson, formerly pastor of the Congregational church of Winfield, a brother of Warner and Will. Johnson and of Mrs. McCommon and Mrs. Peabody. Ed. married Miss Eugenia Ward, a niece of Mrs. S. B. Bruner of this place, and owner of the Matthewson farm east of town. She is with her husband in the wilds of Arizona. We are glad that civilization is approaching them, and hope their venture will realize them untold sums of gold and silver.
Note: I did not copy lengthy letter from Ed. T. Johnson. MAW
Winfield Courier, February 12, 1880.
Last Monday Frank Barclay examined the city pumps and found that the reason they would not work was because there was no water in the wells. The greatest depth in the one on the corner near Harter & McCommon’s was 4¼ inches.
Winfield Courier, March 11, 1880.
A refractory steed caused sad havoc with one of McCommon & Harter’s awning posts Saturday. It took a V to settle the bill and convince the owner that it is cheaper and better to tie to the hitching posts.
[DISSOLUTION NOTICE: McCOMMON & HARTER.]
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1880.
March 18, 1880.
Notice is hereby given that the co-partnership heretofore existing under the firm name of McCommon & Harter is this day dissolved by mutual consent. The liabilities of the old firm will be paid by Mr. Harter. IRA L. McCOMMON, J. N. HARTER.
[NOTICES.]
Winfield Courier, April 8, 1880.
Persons knowing themselves indebted to the firm of McCommon & Harter are requested to call and settle immediately. It is cheaper to settle at once. McCOMMON & HARTER.
Winfield Courier, October 14, 1880.
Ira McCommon needed more help on his farm. He secured a young apprentice of twenty-one years for his board, clothes, and schooling. Ira is well pleased with his bargain and says the boy is the best one he ever had.
Winfield Courier, December 8, 1881.
Mr. Ira McCommon lost a very valuable bull Monday evening by colic.
Winfield Courier, January 19, 1882.
FARM FOR SALE. 160 acres, 60 acres broke, good story and a half house, frame, of three rooms, plenty of fruit, peaches, apple, and cherry trees bearing, three wells of water. Farm situated about 2 miles South West of Seeley Station on A. T. & S. F. R. R., soil equal to any bottom land, price $1,000, $700 down and $300 on 2 years time. Enquire or address Ira L. McCommon, Winfield, Cowley County, Kansas.
Winfield Courier, February 16, 1882.
Ira McCommon has a choice farm for sale at Seeley.
Winfield Courier, March 2, 1882.
If you want a good farm, apply to Ira McCommon at Seeley.
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1882.
Ira McCommon has purchased the stock of drugs formerly owned by E. W. Hovey & Co., and will be found from this time on at the stand occupied by them. Mr. McCommon was in the drug business with J. N. Harter some years and is an experienced hand at the business and deserves a liberal patronage.
Cowley County Courant, March 9, 1882.
E. W. Hovey has sold his stock of goods to Ira McCommon who is well known to many of our people, who will be glad to welcome him back to this city and willingly make room for him in the mercantile field. We are sorry to see Mr. Hovey retire from among the west siders. He has made many friends in business who will miss him but, who, we doubt not, will transfer their good will and patronage to Mr. Hovey’s successor.
Cowley County Courant, March 16, 1882.
IRA L. McCOMMON, CITY PHARMACY, SUCCESSOR TO E. W. HOVEY & CO., THREE DOORS SOUTH OF THE BANKS, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
Winfield Courier, March 30, 1882.
Mrs. McCommon, Mrs. J. E. Platter’s mother, from Cincinnati, Ohio, is visiting here.
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
Mrs. Platter, her mother, Mrs. McCommon, and Mrs. Houston are in Newton attending the Womans’ Missionary convention held there the 5th, 6th, and 7th.
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.
AD. IRA L. McCOMMON, (Successor to E. W. Hovey & Co., City Pharmacy), Dealer in Pure Drugs, Chemicals, Patent Medicines, Soaps, Combs, Brushes, Stationery, Lead Mixed Paints and Oils, Cigars and Tobacco, and everything usually kept in a first-class Drug Store. Physician’s prescriptions carefully compounded at all times by experienced persons.
A few doors south of the Banks, Winfield.
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.
Ira McCommon is working up a splendid business since he came back to his old trade, that of handling drugs. Ira is an accomplished druggist and one of the most reliable young men in the county.
Winfield Courier, April 20, 1882.
Mrs. McCommon, who has been visiting her daughter, Mrs. Platter, and Mrs. Sprague, who has been visiting her daughter, Mrs. Cook, and Miss Hamill left for their homes in Chillicothe, Ohio, Monday.
Winfield Courier, July 13, 1882.
FRESH ARRIVAL READY MIXED PAINTS, LEAD AND OIL. Machine Oil of all grades and Prices at McCOMMON’S DRUG STORE.
Winfield Courier, August 24, 1882.
Smoke “Bric-a-brac,” best 5 cent cigar in the market, at McCommon’s drug store.
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1882.
BIRTH. Mr. and Ira McCommon are the proud and happy parents of a bright little daughter, born last Thursday.
Winfield Courier, March 29, 1883.
Ira McCommon made an assignment to Frank W. Finch, assignee, on Tuesday for the benefit of his creditors. His liabilities do not exceed five hundred dollars and the assets are much greater. We hope to see him on his feet again soon.
[NOTICES.]
Winfield Courier, April 26, 1883.
I am now ready to sell the stock of drugs of Ira D. McCommon at private sale, either in whole, or in lots to suit purchasers. FRANK W. FINCH, Assignee.
Winfield Courier, May 3, 1883.
ASSIGNEE’S NOTICE. I am selling the stock of drugs of Ira L. McCommon very cheap. Parties wishing to buy anything of the kind will do well to call. Country druggists can be supplied with shelving, counters, drawers, bottles of all kinds, show cases, etc.
FRANK W. FINCH, Assignee. Winfield, May 2nd, 1883.
[COWLEY COUNTY DISTRICT COURT.]
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
In the matter of the assignment of Ira McCommon, J. Wade McDonald was elected judge pro tem, to hear motion of Assignee to have certain articles of merchandise set off to him. Motion was sustained, and merchandise to the amount of $150, exempted.
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
We would call attention to the auction sale of the drug stock of Ira L. McCommon, noticed in the special column.
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1883.
At Public Auction. I will, on Saturday, May 19th, 1883, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, all that is left of the stock of goods of Ira L. McCommon, at the store south of Read’s Bank, Winfield, Kansas. The property to be sold includes most of the drugs of said stock, bottles, patent medicines, oils, etc. Hours of sale, 10 a.m. to 12 m., 2 to 5 p.m., and 7½ to 9 p.m. FRANK W. FINCH, Assignee.
Rev. Platter married Nellie McCommon...
[OBITUARY: REV. PLATTER.]
Winfield Courier, June 14, 1883.
DIED. It is with unspeakable sorrow that we announce the death of Rev. James E. Platter, the pastor of the Presbyterian Church of this city, which occurred at his home in Winfield, on Tuesday, June 12th, 1883, at 1:40 o’clock p.m., of malarial typhoid fever, aged 36 years, 8 months, and 24 days.
On the 8th day of May, in apparently sound health but overworked, with his mother, Mrs. Emily Houston, he left home to transact some business of hers in Cincinnati, Ohio. On their arrival at that city, he was attacked with what was called malarial fever, but we presume it was typhoid, and was confined to his bed for about two weeks. Improving considerably he was able to get out, transact his business, and return home to this city, where he arrived on the evening of May 30th. The next day he suffered another and more violent attack of the fever, which increased in virulence until the evening of June 11th, when his delirium became a violent and most alarming paroxysm, which after two or three hours was succeeded by another paroxysm, less violent because of exhaustion, after which he gradually sank for about ten hours, when he expired.
He leaves a very interesting family consisting of a wife, two boys, Houston and Robert, aged 12 and 3 years, respectively, and two girls, Belle and Maggie, aged 10 and 8.
JAMES EDWARD PLATTER was born in Ross County, Ohio, near Chillicothe, September 19, 1846. He is the son of Christey and Emily Platter. His father was a substantial and intelligent farmer of that county, but died when James E. was three years old. His mother is living in the person of Mrs. Emily Houston, and is well known to our citizens for her many kind and noble acts while she has been a resident of Winfield.
In 1855, when the subject of this sketch was nine years old, the family moved to Xenia, Ohio, where he attended the public schools. From infancy he was dedicated by his mother to the ministry, and his education was ordered in that direction. In due time he entered the Delaware College in Ohio, completed the course of studies, and graduated in 1867. He then took a course in theology at Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey under the celebrated Charles Hodge, D. D., and graduated in 1870. He was a studious and bright scholar and always stood high in his class.
In 1870, after leaving Princeton, he married Miss Nannie McCommon, who now survives him. The same year he accepted his first charge at Sandy Hill, New York, where he preached until the spring of 1873. His wife had then become so weak and delicate in health that he frequently carried her upstairs in his arms, and it was believed she could not survive another winter unless a change of climate to some dryer and more salubrious atmosphere should be resorted to. He promptly gave up his charge, where he was much beloved and admired, and to which he had become much attached, and alone started west to look up a suitable location. His first intention was to visit the Colorado mountains, but on arriving at Kansas City, he met a man who had settled at Winfield and who induced him to visit this place. He arrived here in May 1873, became satisfied that this climate was the one he wanted, found the field open for his services as a clergyman, and decided to locate here.
It was then that we first met him. Though 26 years old he was boyish looking, handsome, compact; bright black eyes and hair, very interesting in appearance, though in no way remarkable as a preacher. But he had energy, ambition, and true impulses, and we were very favorably impressed with him from the first. He brought his family here in July of that year and settled down to his work. Small as that work then looked, it was a large one, in fact, no less than the founding and building up of a Presbyterian Church in the wilderness, and to make it the large, wealthy, and flourishing church it now is, and help build up a highly civilized, wealthy, and prosperous community around him. We do not know whether he then dreamed of all he was subsequently to achieve, but we do know that he went to work with vigor, sagacity, and perseverance. We remember that he started off by preaching to a small congregation of a dozen or two, in any building he could find partly enclosed or temporarily vacant, acting as his own janitor, sometimes borrowing seats for service and returning them next morning. Soon his church was organized and began to grow. He was always doing the heavy work and inspiring others by his example.
In 1874, the grasshopper year, when disasters were discouraging others, he had unbounded faith in the future of this county, and was investing thousands in building the magnificent residence which has since been his home, and in farm and other improvements, while some were laughing at him for thus squandering his money. He even then planned the costly, beautiful, and grand Presbyterian Church building which adorns our city, and which was erected in the following two years, his mother and himself being the heaviest subscribers to the fund. As illustrating his unselfish devotion, we mention the general distress that followed this disastrous year of 1874, in which he was the chairman of the relief committee, and devoted his time and energies for months to the arduous work of receiving and distributing relief supplies, a work the magnitude of which is too little known to be fully appreciated. . . .
Winfield Courier, June 21, 1883.
Judge Torrance held a short special session of court Monday morning, and a motion in the McCommon assignment case was argued and overruled.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1883.
Recap Assignee’s Notice in the matter of the Assignment of Ira L. McCommon, for the benefit of his creditors. Frank W. Finch, Assignee, on September 25, 1883, in the office of District Clerk commenced adjusting and allowing claims against the said Estate of Ira L. McCommon, an insolvent debtor of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1883.
Administratrix’s Notice. In matter of Estate of James E. Platter, deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned Nannie J. Platter was on June 10th, 1883, by the Probate Court of Cowley County, State of Kansas, appointed and duly qualified as Administratrix of James E. Platter, deceased. NANNIE J. PLATTER, Administratrix, J. E. Platter. Winfield, Kansas, June 21, 1883.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1884.
Frank W. Finch, assignee Ira L. McCommon for the benefit of his creditors, asking for a discharge from his trust as said Assignee, in court January 21, 1884.
Ira L. McCommon and family moved to Medicine Lodge...
[MORE ABOUT MEDICINE LODGE BANK ROBBERY.]
Winfield Courier, May 15, 1884.
The following particulars of the Medicine Lodge bank robbery we take from a Caldwell Standard extra sent us by Ira McCommon.
The robbers came into town about 10 o’clock a.m. It was raining at the time and no one seemed to have noticed them until the firing was heard in the bank. They had camped the night previous in a grove on the Medicine River west of town and rode into town from the west. They stopped in the rear of the bank building, two of the horses being hitched by ropes, and Smith holding the third and sitting on the remaining horse. Smith remained with the horses. Brown, Wheeler, and Wesley went into the bank. Wheeler went in at the front door and Brown and Wesley at the side door. Wheeler presented his pistol at Mr. Geppert and told him to “throw up his hands.” Brown covered Payne with the same order. Wesley said nothing. It is believed that his part of the terrible business was to cover and kill, if necessary, the clerk, Mr. _____, but luckily for him he had gone to the post office with the Harper mail and was not at that time in the bank. It is said that the young man is yet pale and extremely agitated by reason of his good luck.
Geppert threw up in obedience to Wheeler’s command. Here it is proper to state a fact or two which will be interesting to everybody who has been unduly excited by the awful affair. It transpires that the bank president and cashier had been notified some days before that an attempt would be made to rob the bank. The matter had been talked of in the families of the two gentlemen who have been killed, and their wives now tell of the conversations that were had in regard to the matter.
They had been warned by “I bar Johnson,” and it is supposed that Payne and his cashier had agreed to throw up their hands as their warning told them they must do to save their lives. When the command was given, Mr. Geppert did throw up his hands, and after a moment of pause, he turned to see what Payne was doing, and then Wheeler fired, shooting him through the body, and Brown immediately after shot Payne. There were two shots found in Geppert’s body, and it is supposed that Wesley fired one of them.
There is but little doubt some notice of the intended robbery had been given to them. The fact that Mr. Geppert’s expiring effort was directed toward throwing on the combination of the safe is almost conclusive of the fact, for it is hard to believe that a man without previous knowledge of the attack, having received two fatal shots, would turn directly to the safe, and with the last motion of his nerveless arm turn a lock upon the property of which he was guardian.
I bar Johnson came into Medicine when Horner and others were there. He made a sworn statement to the general effect that some weeks ago Wheeler and the others came to him and urged him to enter into the plot to rob the bank. He refused to do so, and they then told him that they intended to rob the bank anyhow, and that if he “squealed,” they would kill him. He says he had notified Geppert and Payne that an attempt at robbery would be made, and that the robbers would order them to throw up their hands, and that if they complied, they would not be hurt, and the supposition is that Geppert and Payne threw up conformably with the understanding, preferring to take chances on recapturing the money in case of a robbery. Hence they had made no preparation to guard against robbery.
Geppert was found dead by the combination of the safe, sitting in the vault with his life blood streaming about him. Faithful to the last his expiring thought was of the property in his charge and with the shadow of death hovering over him he staggered to the vault, threw on the combination, and sank into eternity.
Payne received but one wound. It was inflicted by Brown with a pistol. He fell from the shock, and when found was weltering on the floor and writhing and groaning in the agony of death. He lived long enough to make a statement that Brown shot him, while Wheeler and Wesley killed Geppert.
Smith was in the rear of the bank in charge of the horses. When the shooting was about over in the bank, the marshal opened fire on Smith with a six shooter. Brown came to the front door of the bank and opened fire on the marshal with his Winchester, firing three shots. At the same time Smith was shooting at the marshal and everybody else he could see.
The robbers had considerable difficulty in loosing their horses, the ropes having become taut in the rain. The statement published in yesterday’s extra of the details of the chase and capture are correct and need not be repeated.
When the robbers rode out of town, Barney O’Conner was playing poker. He quietly picked up his checks, put them in his pockets, and remarking that he would have them cashed when he got back, went to his stable, saddled his horse, seized his gun, and in less than ten minutes from the departure of the robbers, was in hot pursuit. He kept them in sight and guided the attacking party who were following.
The robbers were driven into a hole—a pit, in fact, filled with water. While the fight was in progress, they stood in water waist deep and they all stated that they had become so benumbed and cold that surrender was necessary. Brown was the first man to give up. He called out to the attacking party that if they would protect him, he would surrender. The promise was made and Henry Brown, the man whom our people have always thought so brave, walked out of the hole into which he had been driven, and laid down his gun. Wheeler came out second, Wesley third, and finally Smith, the only game man in the gang, the only man who seemed to know the frailty of a promise of protection after their awful deed, walked out saying, “Boys, I came into it with you, and I’ll go out and die with you.”
The robbery was attempted, say at 10 a.m. The robbers were brought in at 1 p.m. That’s what we call pretty quick work, and speaks well for the energy of the Medicine Lodge men.
The robbers were shackled and put into the calaboose, the only jail they have in that county. They were provided with dry clothing and were well fed. They were photographed during the day and a very good picture was obtained of all except Wheeler. His features were so drawn that he looked unnatural. Harvey Horner has the photo on exhibition at his drug store, as well as a photo of the nine men who made the capture. The photos were taken about 3 p.m. It is stated that at that time our former brave city marshal got down on his knees, groveling in the dirt, and begged for and implored mercy. Great God! Can this be the man that has held Caldwell in terror so long?
Brown at this time wrote a letter to his wife. We have not been able to learn what he wrote. Wheeler was furnished paper and tried to write, but he couldn’t do it. Hadn’t the nerve.
The statement made in yesterday’s extra in regard to the gathering of the mob at night is substantially correct. There are a few facts additional which will interest our good people.
The crowd numbered about 300. They disarmed the sheriff. When they opened the jail, Brown rushed out having got free from his shackles. He ran only a few yards before he fell with a pound of lead distributed through his body. Wheeler ran further, and fell with his right arm shattered, two fingers of his left hand shot away, and three Winchester balls in his body. He made a confession, but what it is is not known. He was not spared an hour as was rumored. He was hung with the rest. It is said that Wheeler implored mercy, and that his cries were so loud that they were heard half a mile. Wheeler begged piteously to be spared till 10 a.m. next day, and said that he would give away many things that would interest the community at large. The crowd could not wait, but stretched him up. Harvey Hortley has a piece of the rope with which Smith and Wesley were hung. Wheeler was hung with a lariat rope. Our Caldwell men were treated with the utmost kindness and consideration by the men of Medicine Lodge. At their request the bodies of Wheeler and Brown were exhumed and the boys say the features were as natural as if they were merely asleep. The bodies were buried in pine coffins and were shrouded. They were buried just over the line of the cemetery.
[COWLEY COUNTY PROBATE COURT.]
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1884.
Probate Court Notes. Ira L. McCommon has filed annual settlement papers in the estate of Sarah D. Johnson.
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1884.
Ira L. McCommon came over from Caldwell, Monday, on business. He is running a drug house there.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 5, 1885.
Notice of final settlement in the matter of the Estate of Sarah Diana Johnson, deceased. Administrator: Ira L. McCommon. Date set for Probate Court hearing: April 6, 1885.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 9, 1885.
Ira L. McCommon came over from Caldwell Saturday to spend Sunday and attend to some business matters.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 30, 1885.
Miss Sarah McCommon, sister of Mrs. N. J. Platter, is dangerously ill with rheumatic fever.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 3, 1885.
Miss Sarah McCommon spent several days of last week with Mrs. Chas. Hill, at Wellington, and her brother, Ira, at Caldwell. Mr. and Mrs. Hill returned to Winfield with her Saturday, to remain several days among relatives and friends. Mrs. Hill is a sister of W. O. and T. J. Johnson, and is well known in this city.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 15, 1885.
The Marriage of Mr. Ezra H. Nixon and Miss Jessie Millington Thursday Night.
At an early hour the large double parlors, sitting room, and hall were filled almost to overflowing by the following friends.
Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Kennedy, Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Schuler, Dr. and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Pryor, Mr. and Mrs. S. D. Pryor, Capt. and Mrs. J. S. Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. F. C. Hunt, Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Buckman, Mr. and Mrs. S. L. Gilbert, Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Doane, Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Kretsinger, Rev. and Mrs. H. D. Gans, Col. and Mrs. J. C. McMullen, Senator and Mrs. W. P. Hackney, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Bedilion, Mr. and Mrs. Ed P. Greer, Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Short, Judge and Mrs. T. H. Soward, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Root, Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Webb, Senator and Mrs. J. C. Long, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Balyeat, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. E. S. Bliss, Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Harter, Senator and Mrs. F. S. Jennings, Mr. and Mrs. O. Branham, Mr. and Mrs. R. Oliver, Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Richards; Mesdames J. C. Fuller, A. T. Spotswood, E. P. Hickok, Ed Beeny, T. B. Myers, A. C. Bangs, Judd, H. H. Albright; Misses Emma Strong, Sallie McCommon, Nettie R. McCoy, Annie McCoy, Anna Hunt, Margie Wallis, Lizzie Wallis, Ida Johnston, Leota Gary, Sadie French, Hattie Stolp, Lena Walrath, Minnie Taylor, Huldah Goldsmith, and Lillie Wilson; Messrs. R. E. Wallis, C. Perry, Geo. C. Rembaugh, C. F. Bahntge, W. C. Robinson, E. Wallis, Ad Brown, Lewis Brown, Ed J. McMullen, Frank H. Greer, P. H. Albright, I. L. Millington, T. J. Eaton, M. J. O’Meara, M. H. Ewart, R. B. Rudolph, M. Hahn, James Lorton, C. D. Dever, E. Schuler, F. F. Leland, Lacey Tomlin, Jos. O’Hare, Eli Youngheim, H. Sickafoose, H. Goldsmith, Moses Nixon, L. D. Zenor, and George Schuler.
At 8:30 the chatter of merry voices was ceased for a few moments and the bridal pair appeared, amid the sweet strains of Mendelsohns’ wedding march, by Miss Nettie R. McCoy. The bride was on the arm of her father and the groom accompanied by the bride’s mother. The bride looked beautiful in an exquisite costume of white Egyptian lace, with white satin slips. The groom was tastefully attired in conventional black. The ceremony, pronounced by Rev. H. D. Gans, was beautiful and impressive. The heartiest congratulations ensued and gaiety unrestrained again took possession of all. At the proper hour a banquet of choice delicacies was served and hugely enjoyed. The banquet over, an hour was spent in jovial converse, when the happy participants in a wedding most auspicious departed with renewed congratulations and wishes for a long, happy, and prosperous life for the bridal pair.
The voyage of Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Nixon certainly starts with a bright sky. The bride has grown to womanhood in Winfield, taking on, with a sweet disposition and ever active ambition, those accomplishments which most lastingly adorn. She will be greatly missed in the social circle in which she has taken such an active part for years, and especially will she be missed from the home of which she has been the principal life and light. Mr. Nixon is well known in this city, being one of its oldest residents and possessed of many sterling qualities. The happy pair leave in a few days for Medicine Lodge, where the groom is established in business, and where they will reside.
The bridal tokens were numerous, valuable, and handsome—the admiration of all who saw the array last night.
THE TOKENS AND DONORS.
Miss Sallie McCommon, bouquet of cut flowers.
[NEW SALEM, TISDALE TOWNSHIP, CORRESPONDENT: “OLIVIA.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
Mrs. Platter and sister, Miss McCommon, were guests in the J. J. Johnson manor last week.
