J. C. Pickering

Arkansas City 1893: J. C. Pickering, 53; spouse, Marg., 56.
Arkansas City 1893: Walt Pickering, 25. No spouse listed.
                                               FROM THE NEWSPAPERS.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 10, 1880.
SCHOOL REPORT. For the month ending March 5, 1880.
INTERMEDIATE: Frank Theaker, Walter Pickering, Maggie Ford, Hattie Hand, John Garris, Wyatt Hutchison, Schuyler Hand.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 6, 1881.
Mr. Pickering has removed into the house he recently traded for from Mr. Mott, in the west part of town, and is already putting up some additions thereto which will much improve the appearance as well as materially add to the convenience of the property as a residence.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 13, 1881.
We dropped into the blacksmith shop of Rarick & Pickering last Saturday and found them and several workmen busily engaged. They report business good and have now on hand enough work to keep them busy for some time.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 20, 1881.
Messrs. Rarick & Pickering and Ford & Berger have had a hand in the construction of a brand new wagon for Endicott & Loveland, of the city meat market, which new wagon may be seen on our streets, and speaks well for the mechanical skill of the builders.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 8, 1881.
We call attention to the business card of Ford & Berger in this issue. This firm, as wheelwrights and wagon makers, rank No. 1, and if you need anything in the line of buggy or carriage work, give them a call.
FORD & BERGER, WHEELWRIGHTS AND WAGON MAKERS.
G. W. FORD. D. BERGER.
Buggy, Carriage and Agricultural Implement Repairs A Specialty.
Shop next door to Rarick & Pickering’s Blacksmith Shop.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 8, 1881.
We call attention to the card of Messrs. Rarick & Pickering in this issue. These gentlemen are first-class mechanics, and we can confidently recommend them to all needing work in their line.
RARICK & PICKERING, BLACKSMITHS.
O. S. RARICK. J. C. PICKERING.
All kinds of buggy and wagon work done in good style. Special attention given to HORSE SHOEING. Shop one block east of the City Hotel.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 20, 1881.
We understand that Mr. J. C. Pickering has sold his resi­dence in the northwest part of the city.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 7, 1881.
Mr. J. C. Pickering is now occupying the Hartsock building, in the north part of town, having sold his late residence.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 14, 1881.

A. F. & A. M. At the last regular meeting of Crescent Lodge, A. F. & A. M., the following were elected officers for the coming year. W M: James Ridenour; S W: W. D. Mowry; J W: I. H. Bonsall; Treas: H. P. Farrar; Sec: Dr. Loomis; S D: Cal Swarts; J D: C. Hutchins; S S: J. C. Pickering; J S: H. Endicott; Tyler: [LEFT BLANK].
Arkansas City Traveler, December 14, 1881.
Our Schools.
SENIOR DEPARTMENT. Pupils perfect in deportment during third month.
Charley Randall, James Robinson, Walter Pickering, Fred McLaughlin, Eddie Garris, Frank Barnett, Horace Vaughn, Mollie Christian, Jessie Finley, Stella Swarts, Zonie Hostetler, Dora Pearson, D. O. Deets, Ella Barnett, Annie Bowen, Emma Theaker, Fannie Peterson, Lula Walton, Alto Maxwell, Willie Edwards, Frank Gamel, Alice Warren, Abby Pettit, Cora Pettit, Hattie Hand, Alvan Sankey.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 8, 1882.
A. O. U. W. A Lodge of A. O. U. W., consisting of forty members, was organized last week in this city by J. F. McMullen and B. M. Legg, of Winfield. The following officers were elected. Past M. W.: James Benedict; M. N.: Capt. O. S. Rarick; Foreman: Archie Dunn; Overseer: J. G. Sheldon; Financier: W. M. Blakeney; Receiver: W. E. Chenoweth; Recorder: B. W. Matlack; O. G.: H. R. Robinson; I. G.: G. H. McIntire; Guide: A. W. Patterson
Trustees: A. A. Davis, J. C. Pickering, and C. R. Sipes.
Medical Examiners: H. D. Kellogg, J. T. Shepard.
Meets every Friday evening, at the Masonic Hall, until further arrangements.
[OLD SOLDIERS’ REUNION.]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 19, 1882.
A meeting of Old Soldiers was called for July 18, 1882, at the office of I. H. Bonsall to talk up a Soldiers Re-union. J. B. Nipp was elected chairman and I. H. Bonsall, secre­tary, of said meeting. Motion made by J. C. Pickering, “that we have a re-union of all old soldiers of the late war, residing in Cowley County and vicinity.” Motion received a second and was carried by the unanimous vote of all present. Motion made that the chair appoint a committee to raise funds to cover the expense of said re-union. Motion carried.
The following committee was appointed to collect provisions, fodder, and funds for said re-union: A. A. Newman, chairman, and James Ridenour of Arkansas City; F. M. Vaughan, N. W. Kimmel, and John A. Smalley, of Creswell; August Lorry, J. H. Penton, and M. J. Rice, of Bolton; with instructions to report progress to the executive committee or Secretary as soon as possible.
The following executive committee was appointed by the committee: J. B. Nipp, chairman, M. N. Sinnott, J. W. Gamel, and O. S. Rarick.
Motion made “requesting the papers of Cowley County to publish the proceedings of this meeting, and invite all the townships of Cowley County by their committees or secretaries to open up correspondence in regard to time and manner of holding said re-union.”
On motion J. B. Nipp was elected permanent chairman and I. H. Bonsall permanent secretary of the “Old Soldiers Re-union organization of Creswell Township.”

All township organizations of Cowley County are requested to correspond with said chairman or secretary of Arkansas City.
On motion all soldiers of the late war of Cowley County and adjunct counties are most cordially invited to attend the re-union.
On motion meeting adjourned subject to the call of chairman. J. B. NIPP, Chairman.
I. H. BONSALL, Secretary.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 22, 1882.
The foundry building is now occupied by Messrs. Rarick & Pickering, as a carriage, wagon, and blacksmith shop.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 6, 1882.
Crescent Lodge A. F. & A. M. The following gentlemen were elected as officers for the coming year in Crescent Lodge No. 133, A. F. & A. M. James Ridenour, W. M.; O. S. Rarick, S. W.; C. L. Swarts, J. W.; H. P. Farrar, Treas.; F. P. Schiffbauer, Sec.
The appointed officers for the ensuing year are: C. Hutchins, S. D.; J. C. Pickering, J. D.; H. Endicott, S. S.; J. R. Rogers, J. S.; Geo. O. Allen, Tyler.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 6, 1882.
The following named pupils of the High School Department were perfect during the third month: Mollie Coonrod, Geo. P. Endicott, Jacob Endicott, Lizzie Wilson, Eddie Garris, Hannah Gilbert, Laura Holloway, Frank Gamel, Alice Lane, Minnie Kirtley, Minnie McIntire, Jessie Norton, Fannie Peterson, Willie Reynolds, Alvan Sankey, Horace Vaughn, Effie Gilstrap, Frank Wright, Robert Nipp, Eddie Marshal, Lulu Walton, Sarah Randall, Etta Barnett, Dora Pearson, Walter Pickering, Charles T. Randall.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 3, 1883.
RARICK & PICKERING, BLACKSMITHS. All kinds of buggy and wagon work done in good style. Special attention given to Horse Shoeing and plow work. Shop in Foundry Building.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1883.
Messrs. Rarick & Pickering have sold out their blacksmith shop to Mr. DeBruce.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 4, 1883.
Mr. J. C. Pickering has gone to Otoe Agency, where he takes the position of Agency blacksmith.
Arkansas City Traveler, April 18, 1883.
The following pupils of the High School were perfect during the 8th month: Etta Barnett, Mollie Coonrod, Hannah Gilbert, Frank Gamel, Effie Gilstrap, Laura Holloway, Jessie Norton, Charley Randall, Alvan Sankey, Eliza Taylor, Lizzie Wilson, Dora Pearson, Carrie Rice, Ida Groves, Walter Pickering, Sarah Randall, Harry Shaw.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 4, 1883.
J. C. Pickering, of Ponca Agency, came up to the city the first of the week.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.
Messrs. J. M. Ware and J. C. Pickering last week made a purchase of the stock and business of the grocery and hardware firm of Schiffbauer Bros., of this city. While we are sorry to lose Charley and Frank from the ranks of our businessmen, yet we feel that the new firm will ably sustain the reputation of the house under its former owners.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 15, 1883.

A CARD. We desire to thank our many friends and patrons in Arkansas City and vicinity for their esteemed favors during the past six years we have been in the business and most cordially recommend to their consideration our successors, Messrs. Ware & Pickering.
Schiffbauer Bros.
NOTICE. All parties knowing themselves indebted to us will please take notice that we have sold out our business to Messrs. Ware & Pickering, but our books, etc., will remain at the store where all are requested to call and settle all accounts at once. Schiffbauer Bros.
Arkansas City Traveler, August 22, 1883.
We call attention to the ad. of our new grocerymen, Ware & Pickering, in this week’s paper. This firm are successors to the Schiffbauer Bros., are thorough businessmen, carry a full and complete stock of groceries and hardware, and we heartily bespeak for them the liberal patronage of our people. Give them a call.
AD. HARDWARE! GROCERIES! WARE & PICKERING, SUCCESSORS TO SCHIFFBAUER BROTHERS.
Arkansas City Traveler, Supplement, December 12, 1883.
The following named pupils were perfect in deportment during the third month: Mahlon Arnett, Mollie Duncan, Effie Gilstrap, Laura Gould, Laura Holloway, Minnie Kirtley, Fred McLaughlin, Howard Maxwell, Dora Pearson, Carry Rice, Mountferd Scott, Emma Theaker, Horace Vaughn, Alice Warren, Sarah Crocker, J. C. Endicott, Lizzie Gilbert, Flora Gould, Ida Hackleman, John Kirkpatrick, Minnie McIntire, Jessie Norton, Lillie Purdy, Alvan Sankey, Eva Splawn, Clarence Thompson, Martin Warren, Stella Wilson.
The following were imperfect and received 65 percent: Sarepta Abrams, Sammie Beall, Alice Lane, Robert A. Nipp, Frank Wright, Lida Whitney, Frank Barnett, Ella Crocker, Edith Marshall, W. S. Pickering, Edna Worthley, Mary Dakin. C. T. ATKINSON, Teacher.
Arkansas City Traveler, Supplement, December 19, 1883.
A Card. As a self-appointed committee to provide a Christmas treat for the Indian children at Otoe Agency, I desire to return my sincere thanks to Messrs. A. A. Newman & Co., Ware & Pickering, J. H. Sherburne, C. Schiffbauer, Sylvester Piltch, Ridenour & Thompson, and the TRAVELER for the assistance so kindly given me in the furtherance of this object. L. E. WOODIN, Jr., Clerk in charge of Otoe Agency.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 19, 1883.
Noble D. Winton is clerking for Ware & Pickering and slings the groceries around in a manner delightful to behold.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 16, 1884.
High School Report. The following pupils of the High School department were perfect in deportment and received 100 percent. Mahlon Arnett, Frank Barnett, Ella Crocker, Mary Dakin, Jacob Endicott, Lizzie Gilbert, Flora Gould, John Kirkpatrick, Rose Morse, Fred McLaughlin, Jessie Norton, Dora Pearson, Carrie Rice, Mountferd Scott, Horace Vaughn, Martin Warren, Clarence Thompson, Sarepta Abrams, Sammy Beall, Sarah Crocker, Mollie Duncan, Effie Gilstrap, Laura Gould, Laura Holloway, Eddie Marshall, Minnie McIntire, Howard Maxwell, Robert Nipp, Walter Pickering, Alvan Sankey, Emma Theaker, Edna Worthley, Lida Whitney, Lillie Purdy, Eva Splawn.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 16, 1884.

ARKANSAS CITY AND SURROUNDINGS.
GROCERIES. Ware & Pickering need no eulogy at the hands of anyone. They are the proprietors of the “Little Brick,” and are busy uninterruptedly. They are men well known in our community, and highly esteemed.
Arkansas City Republican, February 16, 1884.
AD. WARE & PICKERING, Dealers in Groceries, Hardware, -AND- Stock Men’s Supplies. FORWARDING AGENTS. ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
Arkansas City Republican, March 15, 1884.
The following pupils of the high school department were perfect in deportment during the sixth month of the term.
Mahlon Arnett, Cora Armstead, Sammie Beall, Joseph Campbell, Sarah Crocker, D. C. Duncan, Jacob Endicott, Effie Gilstrap, Laura Gould, Ida Hackleman, Richard Hutchins, Alice L. Lane, Eddie Marshall, Minnie McIntire, Howard Maxwell, Birdie Martin, Dora Pearson, Sarepta Abrams, Frank Barnett, Viola Bishop, Ella Crocker, Mary Dakin, Mollie Duncan, Lizzie Gilbert, Eddie Ganes, Flora Gould, Laura Holloway, John Kirkpatrick, Hattie Laird, Rosa Moore, Fred. McLaughlin, Mettie Marbin, Jessie Norton, Walter Pickering, Lillie Purdy, Lloyd Ruby, M. J. Scott, Emma Theaker, Clarence Thompson, Martin Warren, Lida Whitney, Frank Wright, Carrie Rice, Alvan Sankey, Eva Splawn, Frank Theaker, Horace Vaughn, Edna Worthley, Constance Woodin, Frank Wright.
Arkansas City Republican, April 5, 1884.
O. H. Lent was in the Territory this week, visiting the different agencies in the interest of the firm of Ware & Pickering.
Arkansas City Republican, April 5, 1884.
The following named pupils of the High School were perfect in deportment during the seventh month, and received 100 percent.
Mahlon Arnett, Frank Barnett, Sarah Crocker, D. C. Duncan, J. C. Endicott, Eddie Garris, Flora Gould, Laura Holloway, John Kirkpatrick, Ed. Maxwell, Fred C. McLaughlin, Birdie Martin, Robert Nipp, Lillie Purdy, M. J. Scott, Clarence Thompson, Edna Worthley, Sarepta Abrams, Cora Armstead, Mary Dakin, Mollie Duncan, Lizzie Gilbert, Laura Gould, Ida Hackleman, Richard Hutchins, John Kirkpatrick, Rosa Morse, Howard Maxwell, Birdie Martin, Walter Pickering, Lloyd Ruby, Emma Theaker, H. G. Vaughn, Lida Whitney, Constance Woodin.
Arkansas City Republican, April 12, 1884.
John B. Walker and wife came up from Pawnee agency last week, and intend making this place their permanent home. Johnnie is now stopping with Ware & Pickering.
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?
Arkansas City Republican, April 19, 1884.

The sensational advertisement of the week was the “Hot Biscuit” baking powders at Ware & Pickering’s, the Diamond Front, and J. W. Hutchison & Sons’ groceries. A. H. Dickey, the agent of the Henson Chemical Co., of Kansas City, Mo., gained a fine reputation for himself and the French Baking Powders of his firm. The powders can be obtained at the above named firms.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 7, 1884.
Ware & Pickering supplied the river surveyors with provisions necessary to last them through the Territory. W. & P. are generally on hand when there is a good thing floating around.
Arkansas City Republican, May 10, 1884.
Messrs. Ware & Pickering, on Monday last, sold to Capt. Burrowes, in charge of the U. S. Civil engineer corps, their bill of supplies for the river voyage, which amounted to the snug sum of $687. Mr. O. H. Lent exceeded himself on this occasion as usual.
Arkansas City Republican, May 10, 1884.
We had the pleasure of meeting Capt. F. T. Burrowes, civil engineer, who under the direction of Maj. M. B. Adams, of the U. S. Engineer Corps, was ordered from the lower Mississippi—his former base of operations—to proceed to Wichita, and take charge of the surveying expedition at that point. The task assigned to Capt. Burrowes is to survey the Arkansas River from Wichita, Kansas, to Little Rock, Arkansas, for the purpose of determining the feasibility of making this stream navigable. The aim being to bring the matter before congress at as early a day as possible for the necessary appropriations to make the stream navigable from Little Rock up. Capt. Burrowes said from what he had learned of the river below to Arkansas City that he was satisfied that it could be made navigable for the most of the year, but that it would be hard to make it navigable above this place. The Captain expressed himself as greatly surprised at our growth and prosperity. Our canal and mills were a source of wonder to him. His outfit consists of two flat boats, 12 x 40 feet each, well equipped with all the necessaries of life, as well as instruments requisite for this kind of work, and last but not least, a crew of 20 as jolly, hale, well-met young men as anyone could care to meet in his travels. After replenishing their stock of supplies from Ware & Pickering’s supply store, they started down the river Wednesday. Success to you, boys, and may we all meet again under as pleasant circumstances is all the harm we can do you.
Arkansas City Republican, May 24, 1884.
Dr. J. W. Sparks, late of Bushnell, Illinois, and brother of Mrs. J. C. Pickering, is expected with his family. He will make Arkansas City his home.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 28, 1884.
We had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Sparks, a brother-in-law of our townsman, J. C. Pickering, from Bushnell, Illinois, who arrived in our city last Saturday with a view to locating and entering upon the practice of medicine. The doctor expresses himself as much impressed with our city, and for our part we are always glad to welcome such citizens as himself to our town.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 4, 1884.
Ware & Pickering have the latest thing out in the shape of a lamp wick. It is made of fine glass, gives a light with the poorest oil equal to that produced by the highest grade oil with ordinary wicks. They do not heat the burners, and will last six or seven years. They need no trimming. Call in and see them.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 11, 1884.

Capt. Thompson purchased Sam Reed’s residence property last Friday for $1,250, and Sam, to provide himself and family shelter, secured a house of Mr. Pickering for $500.
Arkansas City Republican, June 28, 1884.
J. C. Pickering has been absent, this week, in the territory, on business.
Arkansas City Republican, June 28, 1884.
Hon. I. O. Pickering, of Olathe, Kansas, a brother of our townsman, J. C. Pickering, and law partner of ex-Gov. St. John, is in the city, visiting relatives. Mr. Pickering called upon us yesterday. He is one of our presidential electors, and is considered one of the best workers in the Republican ranks.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 2, 1884.
Mr. I. O. Pickering, of Olathe, Kansas, was visiting our city a few days last week, leaving for his home yesterday. Mr. Pickering is the law partner of ex-Governor St. John, but enjoys the greater credit of being a brother of our Mr. Pickering, of hardware fame.
Arkansas City Republican, August 30, 1884.
W. L. Powell, who has been clerking for Ware & Pickering the past six months, left for Pawnee Agency, Indian Territory, yesterday, where he goes to take a clerkship with the firm of Bishop & Matlack.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 17, 1884.
Mr. J. C. Pickering returned from Wichita last Saturday. He says that aside from the saloons, Arkansas City is a livelier burg than the city of trees.
Arkansas City Traveler, October 8, 1884.
Ware & Pickering kept the street in front of their store full of teams yesterday. They were sending out their regular lot of ranch supplies to various points in the Territory.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 12, 1884.
If you apply immediately to Ware & Pickering for terms and particulars of man and wife (without children) wanted by T. M. Finney, trader, Kaw Agency, Indian Territory. Good references required. Steady employment.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
J. M. Ware, who has been in the Territory a week past, looking after Ware & Pickering’s affairs, returned home Saturday.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 19, 1884.
J. C. Pickering has been laid up for the last week owing to malaria. Let us see, J. C. is a Republican, isn’t he?
Arkansas City Republican, November 22, 1884.
From Pawnee Agency, Indian Territory.
There have been some terrible prairie fires for the past few days and burned several stacks of agency hay. But the rain on Sunday night last put them all out.
J. M. Ware, of the firm of Ware & Pickering, passed through the Agency last week on his way from Sac and Fox Agency, where he had gone to meet his brother-in-law, Mr. Adams, who has been living in the Lone Star state for some years, but is now returning to his first love, Arkansas City. Mr. Ware said he had an immense time while below shooting deer, turkey, wild cats, etc.

Captain Reed Pickering, clerk-in-charge of this agency, is busy this week taking the census of the Indians.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, November 26, 1884.
Ware & Pickering sold goods enough to load twelve teams for the Territory last Monday. It made quite a train.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 26, 1884.
Ware & Pickering sold two cases of wire last week and one this week for the Territory.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 17, 1884.
A. O. U. W. The lodge of A. O. U. W., of this city, have elected the following gentlemen officers for the ensuing year. A. A. Davis, M. W.; D. T. Kitchen, F.; L. Sifford, O. D.; M. J. Capron, Recorder; F. B. Hutchison, Receiver; W. P. Waite, Financier; W. J. Gray, Guide; Geo. Ford, J. W.; J. C. Pickering, S. W.; I. H. Bonsall, Rep. to G. L.
Arkansas City Republican, December 20, 1884.
Friday evening of last week the A. O. U. W.’s elected the following officers.
A. A. Davis, M. W., D. T. Kitchen, F., D. L. Sifford, O., M. J. Capron, Recorder, F. B. Hutchison, Receiver, W. P. Wolfe, Financier, W. J. Gray, Guide, Geo. Forde, I. W., J. C. Pickering, O. W., I. H. Bonsall, Rep. to G. L., M. N. Sinnott, alt. to G. L.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 31, 1884.
O. H. Lent goes to Pawnee next week to attend to business for Ware & Pickering.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 7, 1885.
J. C. Pickering went to Pawnee Agency last Thursday to be present at the quarterly payment of the Indians. He returned yesterday.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 14, 1885.
Ware & Pickering are doing a land office business in the grocery business. They loaded 12 teams with freight for the Territory Monday.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 21, 1885.
BIG AD. WARE & PICKERING, SUCCESSORS TO SCHIFFBAUER BROTHERS.
GROCERIES. HARDWARE.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 4, 1885.
Ware & Pickering are shipping in three carloads of corn a week from up the road, which they ship to the cattlemen below. They keep from fifteen to eighteen teams going all the time, and cannot get enough then. While this is a hard winter on cattle, our people are furnished employment, as many as will take it. There is little excuse for a man, if he has a team anyway, being without work.
[HIGH SCHOOL CORRESPONDENT: “HATTIE.”]
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, February 7, 1885.

Kansas Day. Of the many pleasant afternoons we have spent in the High School, Thursday, the 29th of January, was certainly the most pleasant. School was in regular session in the morning, but a few of our young artists were busy decorating the boards in honor of Kansas. On the east board, just beneath the picture of the Three Graces, appeared in ornamental capitals the motto, “Ad Astra, Per Aspera,” the work of Mervin Miller. On the south board, in colored crayon, could be read “Westward the Star of Empire takes its way.” In the center of the inscription was a large white star. Below was a sheaf of wheat and above a gigantic sunflower. This was the work of Frank Barnett and Emma Campbell. The opposite board showed a well executed map of Kansas, with a moving wagon coming into it from the east while a grasshopper was crossing its western boundary. Much credit is due to the artist, Miss Constance Woodin.
The bell tapped promptly at 1:30 and not only were all the pupils in their seats, but some ten or twelve visitors were also present. The choir opened with America, which was followed by the reading of Watson’s touching poem, “Wounded,” by Mettie Martin. Maggie Gueyer next recited “Our Kansas School Girls,” and was appropriately followed by Walter Pickering with his well written essay, “The Boys of Kansas.” He gave their occupations, amusements, and characteristics and said their chief ambition is to excel other boys, and it was his opinion that they do. He closed with: “May peace, good will, and good luck ever be with the boys of Kansas.”
Arkansas City Traveler, February 11, 1885.
Ware & Pickering started twelve teams loaded with coal and salt for Florer, Gould & Ayres’ range yesterday morning.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 4, 1885.
Ware & Pickering are beautifying the interior of their store with a new coat of paint.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 7, 1885.
Last night occurred again one of those pleasant A. O. U. W.’s socials. Amos Walton made an excellent address on the “Good of the order,” and recitations were rendered by Maud Sifford, Walter Pickering, Maggie Ford, Flora Kreamer, and Wyatt Hutchison.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 11, 1885.
Capt. Ross Pickering of Pawnee was up Saturday to do some trading.
Arkansas City Republican, March 14, 1885.
Capt. Reese Pickering, of Pawnee Agency, was visiting in the city the first of the week.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 18, 1885.
There has been a slight change in the firm of Ware & Pickering. Mr. W. F. Adams, late of Texas, son of our old citizen, S. B. Adams, has purchased an interest. They are now invoicing. The style of the firm has not as yet been determined upon.
Arkansas City Republican, March 21, 1885.
W. F. Adams, son of S. B. Adams, has purchased an interest in the store of Ware & Pickering.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 25, 1885.
We were not able to change the ad. of Ware & Pickering, on the outside, to the name of the new firm, this week, but groceries will be just as cheap, and fresh, and you will be just as courteously treated as though we had. Ware, Pickering & Co., are ready to meet you.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 25, 1885.
We saw in a letter from an old miner who has made a careful examination of the New Mexico mine of Ex-Governor St. John and Major I. O. Pickering of this city, in which he says it is worth, and will be sold for $3,000,000. Olathe Mirror Gazette.
I. O. is a brother of our J. C. Pickering, and is also well known by many of our citizens.
Arkansas City Republican, April 18, 1885.
Ware & Pickering loaded up four teams Tuesday for Ponca with goods.
Arkansas City Republican, July 25, 1885.

SKIPPED A RESOLUTION, HARD TO READ, BY CRESCENT LODGE NO. 135,
A. F. & A. M., CONCERNING DECEASED MEMBER, H. H. ARMSTRONG BY THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS: JAMES RIDENOUR, F. P. SCHIFFBAUER, AND J. C. PICKERING.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, July 29, 1885.
WALLACE & HUFF, ARKANSAS CITY TRANSFER.
The above firm desire to inform the people of Arkansas City that they are prepared to do a general TRANSFER AND JOBBING BUSINESS and Teaming of all kind, having four licensed teams, and solicit the patronage of the public. Leave Orders at Ware & Pickering’s.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 2, 1885.
Capt. Rees Pickering, late chief clerk at the Pawnee Agency, was in town last week, on his way to his home in Blue Springs, Nebraska. He had been rotated out of office, after three years’ efficient service; his successor being M. L. MacKenzie, a gentleman whom the captain speaks of in very favorable terms. Official position is at all times uncertain, and the man who accepts it, must keep his eye out for squalls.
Arkansas City Republican, September 5, 1885.
Ware, Pickering & Co., in this issue of the REPUBLICAN, tell our many readers what they are doing and what they have for sale. These gentlemen are good, reliable businessmen, of whom the REPUBLICAN gladly speaks a good word. The firm are forwarding agents, and consequently have an immense territory trade.
AD. WARE, PICKERING & CO., DEALERS IN GROCERIES, HARDWARE, FEED, AND GRAIN. FORWARDING AGENTS, ARKANSAS CITY, KANSAS.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, September 12, 1885.
Council Proceedings. The city council met in regular session Monday evening with Mayor Schiffbauer, Councilmen Prescott, Davis, Hight, Dean, and Dunn present, and Hill and Bailey absent. The following bills were acted upon.
County bill of Ware, Pickering & Co., pauper claim, $17.85; approved.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 16, 1885.
John M. Ware, of Ware, Pickering & Co., is suffering from inflammatory rheumatism in the knee. We trust he will have speedy relief from this painful ailment.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 24, 1885.
On Saturday evening, Oct. 17th, Rev. and Mrs. J. P. Witt were completely and pleasantly surprised by some of their friends, who brought with them some very valuable and useful presents, Judge Bryant and wife constituting the van guard. Then followed Mr. and Mrs. Bailey, Mr. and Mrs. Hyatt, Mr. and Mrs. Pile, Mr. and Mrs. Craig, Mr. and Mrs. S. B. Adams, Mr. and Mrs. A. V. Alexander, Mr. and Mrs. D. G. Lewis, Mrs. Grimes, Mrs. Ed. Pentecost, Mrs. J. M. Ware, Mrs. Strong, Mrs. Theo. Fairclo, Mrs. Frank Speers, Mrs. Wm. Gray, Mrs. Franey, Mrs. Chapel, Mrs. Blubaugh, Mrs. Pickard, Mrs. Mansfield, Mrs. Murphy, Misses Sadie and Mary Thomas, Clara Bryant, Nina Pickering, Fannie Harding, Lou Murphy, Mr. E. Baldwin, Mr. Walter S. Pickering, and Mrs. C. R. Sipes. The evening was spent sociably, enlivened with vocal and instrumental music. All seemed in love with life and will long remember the very pleasant hours spent together on that occasion.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 31, 1885.

ALMOST ONE MILLION
Dollars Worth of Improvements Made to Arkansas City This Building Season.
The following is a partial list of the improvements made in Arkansas City since March 1, 1885.
J. C. Pickering, residence: $1,000.00.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 4, 1885.
Ware, Pickering & Co., were busy all day yesterday receiving potatoes into their warehouse.
Arkansas City Republican, December 12, 1885.
Ware & Pickering buy game. Highest market price paid therefor.
Arkansas City Republican, December 12, 1885.
W. F. Adams has retired from the firm of Ware, Pickering & Co., and the firm name is changed back to Ware & Pickering.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 16, 1885.
On January 1st, W. T. Adams will retire from the firm of Ware, Pickering & Co., and the original firm name will be restored: Ware & Pickering. Mr. Adams has won an enviable reputation as a businessman, and in his departure for Texas, in which roomy state he proposes to take up his abode, Arkansas City will lose a useful citizen.
Arkansas City Republican, December 26, 1885.
Bennett Chapter No. 41 elected the following officers last Wednesday night. J. Ridenour, H. P.; O. P. Houghton, K.; L. McLaughlin, S.; J. L. Huey, Treasurer; C. Hutchins, Secretary; W. D. Mowry, C. of H.; J. Benedict, P. S.; George Russel, R. A. C.; J. C. Pickering, 3rd Vail; J. P. Johnson, 2nd Vail; J. T. Shepard, 1st Vail; H. P. Standley, G.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, December 30, 1885.
THE INDIAN SERVICE.
How President Cleveland is Foiled in His Intention to Improve Things.
William de Lesdernier is the last victim of the official ax. He has held the position of sub-agent at Otoe for some years, performing his duties efficiently and with due regard to the welfare of the Indians committed to his charge. Agent Osborne, we are informed, was content to retain him, recognizing the fact that politics do not belong to the Indian service, and that a fit man should be retained no matter what his political belief. But the scramble for office in Washington is so irresistible that merit has no regard and precedent is trampled under foot. It is obvious to common sense that an Indian agent who is held responsible for the acts of his subordinates, should be allowed the selection of these subordinates, and they should be accountable to him for their conduct. This rule has hitherto been followed, and certainly with satisfactory results.

Take the Pawnee school as an example. Under its former superintendent the school was admirably conducted, and more than one school inspector has cited it as a model institution. When Mr. Mackenzie succeeded to Capt. Reese Pickering in charge of the agency, he removed the assistant teacher to find a place for his wife. This was not in the direction of civil service reform, but it was excusable because we can understand that the party now in power is fully cognizant of its uncertain hold on office, and every prudent official will improve his fleeting opportunity. But both the agent and the sub-agent were confused by the removal of the superintendent and the appointment of a successor who showed no fitness for his duties. The lady expected to be helped along by her superior until she was able to run alone; but here were two inexperienced persons, with no training for school duties and both ignorant of Indian nature. The result is the complete demoralization of the school, and serious detriment to the Indian service.
President Cleveland has the credit of being a sincere civil service reformer, and his declarations on the subject have the flavor of sound morality. But there is a hungry, clamorous party to be provided for, who are provoked to extremist ire at what they call the president’s infatuation, and in hundreds of appointments that he has made or countenanced, he was fully aware that his conduct was in conflict with his proposed intentions.
We have been censured for passing judgment on Mr. Branham, the newly appointed Superintendent of the Chilocco Indian school, before he has had opportunity to display his merits. We have never said one word derogatory to this gentleman as an honest, well-meaning man and a sincere Christian. As an evangelist among the red men he has shown zeal and usefulness, and there was his proper place. But we have exclaimed with becoming indignation against the sin of removing a man from that responsible office who, in addition to extensive business training, showed peculiar fitness for the work, and was carrying the school forward to success. Dr. Minthorn’s superior administrative qualities were known and appreciated in the Indian bureau; he was allowed full power of appointment and dismissal, and his subordinates were subject to his control. As a consequence, the affairs of that multitudinous household ran like clock work. Each department was committed to competent hands; farm work was prosecuted on an extensive scale, the schools were in charge of excellent teachers; the feeding and clothing of the inmates were performed without effort, and order and regularity marked all the manifold details of the establishment. It was the doctor’s intention, as the crude materials placed in his hands became more fusible, to increase the productiveness of his magnificent farm to such an extent that the school would not only have been self-supporting, but would have returned a surplus to the government.
Last year his corn crop was among the best raised in this region, his crop of oats was unsurpassed, and the kitchen garden supplied the table with abundance. Last fall he would have sown 200 acres in wheat, nearly that extent of ground having been plowed for the purpose, and workshops and other buildings were erected to bring the establishment up to its full standard of usefulness at an Indian training school.

But the doctor was removed by the marplot Lamar, (in spite of the protestations of Commissioner Atkins), and this well meaning missionary put in his place. It was obvious to common sense that the change was an unfortunate one, and that the public good has been sacrificed to private preferment. The school suffers, and this important and interesting experiment is threatened with disaster. Visitors to the school and employees even, tell of the lack of order and untidiness that everywhere prevail; the schools are poorly taught, the culinary arrangements are defective, and the entire household seems at loose ends. Perhaps Superintendent Branham is not to blame for this. His predecessor was master of the situation; he demanded fitness and zeal in every employee, and the man or woman who was lacking in any essential, was promptly removed for one more competent. But this absolute control is taken out of Mr. Branham’s hands; appointments to the school are made in Washington, and Secretary Lamar, being an avowed spoilsman, his sole cure is to provide places for the most importunate of his friends.
There is no need to go further into detail. Harm must result from the wholesale displacement of employees who are familiar with their duties and who take a pride in the success of the Indian service. To fill their places with men and women from the south, many of whom never saw a red man till they reached the territory, and whose sole object is to make all they can while their brief term of service lasts. President Cleveland may be credited with the honest desire to improve the administration of affairs; but he has to work through subordinates, and these latter are more industrious to feather their own best interests  than to care for the condition of poor Lo.
Arkansas City Republican, March 27, 1886.
[Item by Belle Plaine News Reporter.]
Arkansas City’s Boom. The News man took a short trip to Arkansas City Saturday and returned Monday. Having saluted his many friends and acquaintances, he took time to look over the city and note the many improvements being made.
“Arkansas City is one of the most thriving and busiest towns in Southern Kansas. No amount of back-sets seem to effect her growth. Although she has passed through two or three recent severe fires, she rises, phoenix like, from the ashes, and immediately rushes on to replace the old with the new. Old frame buildings are being removed and handsome brick buildings are taking their place. We counted work being done on eight two-story brick business houses, two three-story bricks, and one, one-story brick, or brick and stone. There was also a large number of residences in all stages of completion. The businessmen profess to be making money, and the crowds on the streets Saturday and Monday would seem to indicate as much.
“O. P. Houghton’s large dry goods store, C. R. Sipes’ equally large hardware store, and the Territory outfitting store of Ware, Pickering & Co., where the scribe made his principal base of operations, certainly were as busy as it was possible to be. The real estate men also seemed to share in the hustle and activity.
“This visit made an impression on our mind and very sharply pointed several morals. Without apology, save that we have the best interests of Belle Plaine at heart, we will present them.
“In our many conversations, long and short, it was noticeable that not a man was found, in business or out, who did not believe—heart and soul—in the future greatness of Arkansas City; and they had no scruples in calling attention to their advantages. The situation, the trade, the new railroads, the advantages of every sort, real and imaginable, were presented forcibly and frequently, turned this way and that, and no time or trouble saved to make the impression deep and lasting, although they well knew that we had no thought of returning to Arkansas City and no money to invest if we did.

“The point here is just this: Every Arkansas City man makes it his chief end to boom Arkansas City, first, last, and all the time. And Arkansas City does boom, as she deserves to. It makes no difference to what part of the world you go; if you find the people wrapped up in the idea that their place is the best place in the world, you will also find them convincing other people of the correctness of that idea. Arkansas City is taking the right course to become a large city. It has convinced themselves and they are determined to convince everybody else, willy-nilly. And it is natural that they should succeed.
“If Belle Plaine was as thoroughly convinced of her glorious future as she ought to be, if her citizens would take the time and the trouble to convince the strangers who visit us that our advantages are real and not imaginary and do this with one-half the earnestness Arkansas City exhibits, we would double or treble our population this year.
“For instance, take the railroad talk. Arkansas City is as certain of obtaining three, four, or five new railroads this year as that she now exists—to hear her talk. Her citizens have talked this so much that they absolutely know it, although not a foot of soil has been turned on any one of them. Yet Belle Plaine, with 61 miles already graded, a construction train purchased, an engine built, in short, a thousand times the assurance of a road that Arkansas City has, is dubious, or professes to be. Let a stranger come into our city and every other man will say the road will be built, but accompany it with such a doleful sigh, such a wise shake of the head, that the stranger is convinced that his informant is lying under compulsion. This is no way to build up a town. The right way, the only way, is to talk about it; if necessary, lie about it. This is not necessary in our case, for our advantages and prospects need no lying, but they do need earnest and continued presentation, forcible and unwearing pressing into notice. Do this, and the people of other towns will come here and be impressed that Belle Plaine is a get there Eli kind of a town, a sure go town, a good kind of a town to tie to.
Belle Plaine News.”
Arkansas City Republican, March 27, 1886.
R. Porter, The old roust-about, is again ready to do house cleaning, stove-moving, etc., for the money. Leave order at Ware & Pickering’s.
Arkansas City Republican, April 3, 1886.
Ware & Pickering sold a house and lot to Amos Spray through the agency of Lowe, Hoffman & Barron. Consideration, $400.
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, April 28, 1886.
WALLACE & HUFF, ARKANSAS CITY TRANSFER.
The above firm desire to inform the people of Arkansas City that they are prepared to do a general TRANSFER AND JOBBING BUSINESS and Teaming of all kind, having four covered teams, and solicit the patronage of the public. Leave Orders at Ware & Pickering’s.
[CITY COUNCIL.]
Arkansas City Republican, May 22, 1886.
The city council met Monday evening in regular session. Present: C. G. Thompson, C. G. Thurston, A. A. Davis, A. D. Prescott, J. Hight, C. Dean, and O. Ingersoll.
Ware & Pickering, $1.50; allowed.
[REPUBLICAN PRIMARIES.]
Arkansas City Republican, June 5, 1886.
The Republican primaries of the city were held Thursday evening.
THIRD WARD. The meeting was held in Lowe, Hoffman & Barron’s real estate office. Geo. Cunningham was chosen chairman and N. T. Snyder secretary. The delegates elected were: Maj. L. E. Woodin, G. W. Cunningham, N. T. Snyder. Alternates: W. B. Hagins, O. P. Houghton, J. C. Pickering. On motion the meeting adjourned.

Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, June 26, 1886. From Thursday’s Daily.
Mrs. J. C. Pickering left today via the Santa Fe, on a visit to Central City, Iowa.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, July 24, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Probably as outrageous a deed as could be perpetrated was that done by Dr. Holland and H. C. Scroggs, of Geuda Springs. About dusk yesterday evening Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Hess were out driving and just as they arrived at the crossing of 4th Avenue and Summit Street, along came the above named intoxicated individuals, driving at a rapid gait, and ran the front wheel of their buggy into the hind wheel of Mr. Hess’s carriage. In attempting to turn their horse and buggy, Holland and Scroggs upset the vehicle with which they collided. Mr. and Mrs. Hess were thrown out, the latter receiving a bad bruise on the shoulder, a sprained arm, and a severe wrench of one of her lower limbs. Mr. Hess was uninjured and as quickly as possible conveyed his wife home and summoned a physician. She was carefully attended and at the present writing is reported improving. Holland and Scroggs had no sooner done the deed than they made a break to get out of town and an exciting chase ensued between them and Marshal Gray and Johnnie Breene in Ware & Pickering’s delivery wagon. They were chased down Summit Street to 7th Avenue, when they turned and ran down the alley between 6th Street and Summit, until they arrived at the rear of the Central Avenue Hotel. Here they were overtaken and arrested. Before Judge Bryant they were fined $10 and costs for disturbing the peace. They paid up immediately, highly elated to think they had gotten out of their difficulty so easily. But their hilarity was cut short, for they were arrested again with a state warrant upon the same charges. They were taken before Judge Kreamer, but that gentleman refused to allow them out on bond, so they were placed in custody until this afternoon. When the case came up, Scroggs plead guilty and was fined $20 and costs, total $48. He paid up. Holland stood trial and was fined $10 and costs. He proved that he had nothing to do with the accident, except that he was in the buggy riding with Scroggs.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, August 27, 1886. From Friday’s Daily.
Ware & Pickering exhibited to us the largest lemon we saw. Its weight was exactly 10 ounces.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, October 30, 1886. From Monday’s Daily.
Noble Winton, for some time past in the employ of Ware & Pickering, has taken a situation in C. R. Sipes’ hardware establishment. Noble is a worker and will do his employer justice.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, January 1, 1887. From Wednesday’s Daily.
The residence of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Guthrie, two miles west of the city, was raided last evening by a surprise party, consisting of members of the W. R. C. and G. A. R., and friends.
P. A. Lorry, in behalf of the W. R. C., presented the hostess a beautiful set of table linen. Those present on this happy occasion were Mr. and Mrs. A. A. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Hubbard, Mr. and Mrs. Derr, Mrs. Taylor, Mrs. Randall, Mrs. Reed, Mrs. Rarick, Mrs. Lorry, Misses Sada and Nina Pickering, Miss Randall, Miss Maria Marshall, Mr. P. A. Lorry, Mr. Duncan, Mr. F. B. Marshall, Mr. Walter Pickering, and Willie Schnee.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 5, 1887. From Thursday’s Daily.

The firm of Ware & Pickering no longer exists. The last named has sold out to Mr. Ware. Mr. Pickering retires from business with the regrets of his many friends. The REPUBLICAN extends its best wishes for the continued success of Mr. Ware.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 5, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
J. M. WARE & CO., Successors to Ware & Pickering, DEALERS IN GROCERIES, HARDWARE, FEED, AND GRAIN FORWARDING AGENT.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 12, 1887. From Monday’s Daily.
Last night someone pilfered a valuable saddle from J. C. Pickering’s barn and this morning J. C. is mad.
Arkansas City Republican, Saturday, March 26, 1887. From Friday’s Daily.
Johnson, the colored man, up for selling intoxicants, was convicted this morning on two accounts in Judge Kreamer’s court. He was sentenced to 60 days in jail and fined $200. The following are the names of jurymen: E. W. Vaughn (colored), A. Dodd, P. B. Andrews (colored), A. G. Lowe, Geo. W. Spruill, Bradford Beal, Geo. Allen, G. W. Herbert, P. Thompson, J. C. Pickering, C. Atwood, and S. J. Rice. There was talk of appealing, but at time of going to press the necessary bond had not been filed.