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Winfield Social Clubs
The earliest newspaper on microfilm concerning Winfield was the Cowley County Censor. The first mention of a “club” was contained in one item only in 1871.
Winfield Quartette Club.
Cowley County Censor, July 1, 1871.
FOURTH OF JULY PROGRAM.
A military salute will be fired at sunrise.
The procession will be formed on Main Street at 10 a.m., by the Marshal of the day, and march to the grove at 11 o’clock accompanied with a band of music under the management of Prof. Palmer.
On arriving at the Grove the following order of exercises will be observed.
1. Song: Star Spangled Banner, by the Winfield Quartette Club.
After studying the newspapers that were printed concerning Winfield clubs, I found out that there were two types: those held outdoors of an athletic nature; and those held indoors for dancing, readings, drama exchanges, card playing, and by private groups, usually young males or young females. I finally determined to set these out in two categories: Outdoor activities and Indoor Activities. I have started each category with the first date given and then progressed until it was not mentioned. I quit in mid-April 1886. MAW
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.
Note: At first the newspapers stated “base ball” rather than the modern day “baseball.” I was amazed at all the different names used for teams.
BASEBALL.
Frontier Base Ball Club.
Winfield Messenger, June 28, 1872.
The Frontier Base Ball Club of this place has challenged the Rackensacks of Arkansas City, to play them a matched game at Oxford, on the fourth.
Winfield Courier, June 5, 1874.
A complete organization of the first nine of the “Frontier” base ball club was effected last Saturday. The officers are E. C. Manning, President; W. W. Walton, Secretary; A. H. Hane, Treasurer; and L. J. Webb, Captain. The second nine should, and doubtless will, organize tomorrow.
Star Base Ball Club.
Winfield Courier, August 12, 1875.
Our small boys have organized a base ball club. The “Stars” is their brilliant appellative.
Winfield Courier, August 12, 1875.
There will be a match game of Base Ball between the Star club, of this city, and the “Hot-Brick-bats,” of the country, next Saturday evening at the Frontier grounds. Both are junior clubs.
Winfields. [Base-ball Nine.]
Winfield Courier, March 22, 1883.
On Saturday last the following young men met and organized a base-ball nine, to be known as the “Winfields”: Wm. Carson, catcher; Ed. McMullen, pitcher; R. I. Mansfield, short-stop; Bert Freeland, 2nd stop; J. Connor, 1st base; Sam Aldrich, 2nd base; Clint Austin, 3rd base; Morton Stafford, right field; Walter Tomlin, left field; Wm. Connor center.
Officers: Ed. McMullen, president; R. I. Mansfield, captain; J. Connor, secretary; Clint Austin, treasurer.
This club is open for challenges from neighboring nines, and will be glad to correspond at any time. JAMES CONNOR, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, April 12, 1883.
A Challenge.
EDS. COURIER: The Mutual Base Ball club would be pleased to play the Winfields a match game of ball one week from next Saturday, April 21st, the game to be nine innings or more. Stakes to be a ball, bat, and supper for the nines. Please reply through the COURIER. Respectfully, MUTUALS.
[Name Changed to “Winfield Nine.”]
Winfield Courier, September 13, 1883.
The “Winfield Nine” went down to Arkansas City Wednesday to play her club a game of base ball for the county championship. Victory is ours, saith the Winfieldites.
Winfield Courier, September 20, 1883.
The Arkansas City base ball club are of the opinion that they sent the “Winfield Nine” home from the contest in that city on Wednesday of last week in sackcloth and ashes. They did “lay it over” our boys a little, but the Winfieldites were so finely entertained that they gave this victory to their opponents in order to encourage a future contest. A base ball tournament with the Winfield, Harper, and Arkansas City clubs taking part is expected as one of the attractions at the Fair next week.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1883.
The Winfield base ball club were again beaten by the “Actives” of Arkansas City at the Fair last week. It seems that they have a pretty active club at the Terminus after all.
[New Baseball Club: Winfield Reds.]
Winfield Courier, April 17, 1884.
The “Winfield Reds,” our new, baseball club, have commenced practice in earnest and will soon be able to eclipse anything in the southwest. The following persons compose the club: E. W. Ellsworth, pitcher; Con. Donavon, catcher; A. D. Lycan, 1st base; L. E. Back, captain, 2nd base; L. Martin, 3rd base; C. Anson, short stop; L. Moore, right field; G. Reed, left field; Frank Crampton, center field.
[New Base Ball Club: “Cyclones.”]
A BAD CYCLONE ON THE BORDER.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 11, 1885.
A Cyclone is a very bad thing when it makes a swoop. Winfield’s Cyclone is a daisy. It yet has to find anything too weighty for its sweeping qualities. To gobble up base ball clubs is its special delight, and when it winks its eyes, rubs its hands, and wades in, you may always look for a “twister.” It raked in a victim Thursday in a way that was really heart-rending. It was the result of a contest between our Cyclone and the Border Base Ball Club of Arkansas City. The Border Club was composed as follows: F. Perryman (captain), F. Wright, Joe Pentecost, Eric Miller, Joe Wasney, Geo. Smith, Geo. Wilson, Chas. Wright, with Lute Coombs as score man. The Cyclone Club is composed of Will R. Gray, Walker Jones, Jerry Smith, George Schuler, Harry Holbrook, Will Parker, S. A. McClellan, Ed. McMullen (captain), and Hallock. W. E. Dockson did the score act and William Schell umpired, both of Winfield. The game opened at 2:25, with the Borders at the bat. The first inning white-washed the Border’s, but on the second they scored eleven runs; then the Cyclones began to boost—and walked right off with a pocket full of tallies every inning. At the close of the game, without the Cyclones playing their last inning, the scored stood 46 to 19 in favor of our boys. The tallied runs and outs stood as follows.
CYCLONES.
Gray: 6 Runs, 3 Outs; Jones: 7 Runs, 1 Out; Smith: 5 Runs, 3 Outs; Schuler: 6 Runs, 3 Outs; Holbrook: 5 Runs, 3 Outs; Parker: 6 Runs, 2 Outs; McClellan: 4 Runs, 2 Outs; McMullen: 3 Runs, 4 Outs; Hallock: 4 Runs, 4 Outs.
Totals: 46 Runs, 23 Outs.
BORDERS.
Perryman: 4 Runs, 2 Outs; Smith: 1 Run, 4 Outs; Wasney: 1 Run, 4 Outs; Miller: 3 Runs, 2 Outs; Pentecost: 2 Runs, 2 Outs; Wilson: 1 Run, 5 Outs; Wright: 3 Runs, 1 Out; Hilliard: 1 Run, 4 Outs; Wright: 4 Runs, 3 Outs.
Totals: 19 Runs, 28 Outs.
The Borders made some good plays, but of course it takes skilled artists to overcome the brilliant playing of our club. The playing of the Cyclones has never been excelled in this section; in fact, our club can down anyone that dares to poke up its head. The Borders were undaunted in defeat, and challenged the Cyclones for a game with $50 water at Arkansas City three weeks from yesterday, which was accepted. The Arkansas City boys were handsome fellows, perfect gentlemen, and had their regular nine been present, would have given a warmer tussle. Their catcher, pitcher, and umpire were unable to come up. Their club had only been organized a week and had had but little practice. Their visit was very enjoyable.
CYCLONE—WELLINGTON.
A Game of Base Ball That Got on its Ear and Was Tipped Over by a Cyclone.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
The contest between our Cyclones and the Wellington Base Ball Club, on the South Main commons Monday afternoon was not as glorious as had been hoped for. Wellington’s umpire seemed to be cross-eyed and from the start made decisions accordingly, keeping our boys on the qui vive to keep down irregularities. While there wasn’t much good playing on either side, the clubs seemed, from the score, to be very evenly matched. But there was too much bickering and dissatisfaction, on both sides, for an interesting, creditable game. Will R. Gray, T. H. Hallock, Walker Jones, A. J. McClellan, Will Parker, Ed. McMullen (captain), Jerry Smith, and John Land, composed the Cyclones, and A. W. McClanahan (captain), E. W. Ellsworth, Dick Davis, Arthur Hardy, A. M. Patten, C. Byler, Eugene Igone, Jesse Derrick, and E. Forsythe composed the Wellington nine. Wm. Bailer, of Wellington, and our W. E. Dockson manipulated the score books, and Wm. Adams, of Wellington, umpired.
Score at close of the first half of the ninth inning: Cyclones: 29 runs, 25 outs. Wellingtonians: 30 runs, 27 outs.
It will be seen by the score that the Cyclones didn’t play the last half of the ninth inning. They went to the bat, got men on the first and second, when the umpire decided the second base man was put out by the pitcher. The out was a “scratch,” and our boys “kicked.” The umpire refused to retrench and a heavy fire was opened on both sides—of chin gab. The Wellington boys got mad, threw up the game, and walked off on their ear. The second base man acknowledged he was out, in the heat of the discussion, but the wind machine couldn’t be stopped. Of course our boys stood a good show to win the game, had they finished their inning, but the Wellington boys, in refusing to finish, threw the score to the last-even inning, giving our boys the game by a score of 29 to 23. The game throughout was uncreditable, in deportment. The Wellington boys, barring a few erroneous decisions of their umpire, acted very gentlemanly. Our boys were too hot-headed. The Wellingtonians were visitors to our city and through courtesy were entitled to the doubts. They deserved good treatment, but didn’t get it. In the intense excitement of the game, our boys forgot themselves—forgot that they were entertaining visitors, whose conduct, as far as the club itself was concerned, entitled them to every courtesy. If they didn’t like the umpire, they should have called a vote and had another put in, which would have been readily conceded. There was no talk of a return game, and from appearances the Cyclones will never cross the bat with another foe. They seem to be rent asunder. We hope not. All their other contests have been perfectly harmonious and enjoyable, and they should not let one little ruffle break up the club and we don’t believe they will, after mature deliberation.
CYCLONE ECLIPSED.
The Burden Boys Slightly Scoop Our Base Ballists. A Daisy Game.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 18, 1885.
The contest between our Cyclones and the Eclipse base ball club of Burden at the latter place Friday afternoon was about the best game ever played this side of Kansas City. Our boys had some ill luck and a pile of fun in getting to the battle ground. They went in Green Wooden’s street bus, and five miles out from Winfield, broke down. Lumber wagons were secured to New Salem, where easier vehicles were procured and the caravan moved on. The Cyclone Club was composed as follows: Will R. Gray, Israel Martin, Walker Jones, Jerry Smith, Ed McMullen, A. J. McClellan, Will Parker, Harry Holbrook, and Land. Those composing the Eclipse: D. Bucknell, T. J. Dassett, W. A. Elliott, T. J. Rude, Wm. Brooks, Fred Collins, C. P. Conrad, J. Henderson, and A. Brooks. The game was played in just two hours, with the following score.
CYCLONES: Gray, 1 run, 4 outs; Martin, 2 runs, 2 outs; Jones, 2 runs, 2 outs; Smith, 0 runs, 3 outs; McClellan, 0 runs, 4 outs; Land, 0 runs, 3 outs; Parker, 1 run, 3 outs; Holbrook, 1 run, 3 outs; McMullen, 0 runs, 3 outs. Total: 7 runs, 27 outs.
ECLIPSE: Buckner, 0 runs, 4 outs; Dassett, 1 run, 2 outs; Elliott, 2 runs, 2 outs; Rude, 1 run, 4 outs; Brooks, 1 run, 5 outs; Collins, 2 runs, 2 outs; Henderson, 2 runs, 2 outs; Conrad, 1 run, 3 outs; Brooks, 1 run, 3 outs. Total: 11 runs, 27 outs.
Note: Play was broken down into innings.
Some brilliant playing was done on both sides. George M. Black of this city, and Frank McLain of Burden did the score act, and Clint Austin umpired. The grounds were supplied with seats, ice water, and other unusual conveniences, with the ring roped in. Spectators were numerous; ladies and gentlemen, and the interest in the game was intense. Our boys are enthusiastic in praise of their splendid treatment by the Burden club, who banqueted, lemonaded, and ice creamed them—extending every courtesy possible. Though defeated, the Cyclones are jubilant over the grand time afforded them. Winfield and Burden certainly have the dandy base ball clubs of Southern Kansas. Their score would do credit to many professionals. The Eclipse plays our club a return game here next Friday, when the Cyclones hope to reciprocate the royal entertainment given them yesterday and carry off the championship. A number from here went over to witness the game, among them: W. H. Dawson, Geo. A. Black, Ed. Lamont, Ray Oliver, Byron Rudolf, Frank L. Crampton, and O. J. Daugherty. After the base ball game, a big game of foot ball was played, won of course by our boys—who had the legs. Gray got there in fine shape.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 25, 1885.
The “Eclipse” base ball club, of Burden, and the Arkansas “Borders,” will meet at Winfield on the 25th of the present month and cross bats for the championship of the county: “Cyclones,” do you drop!
BORDERS AND CLIPPERS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 2, 1885.
Arkansas City’s base ball club has at last edged to the front, by a squeeze. The game between the Border club, of A. C., and the Clippers, of Burden, resulted in a score of sixteen to fifteen in favor of the Borders. It was a very fine game, and drew a large crowd of admiring spectators. Some brilliant playing was done on both sides. The boys showed grit and practice. The game was for the championship of the county. It is not very good grace in the Borders trying to walk off with this championship on the first game won this season. It will now be in order for the Borders to defeat our Cyclones, now, as reorganized, the best club in this section. Then it can tuck the county championship in its vest pocket and look for other fields to conquer. Both these clubs are composed of a very gentlemanly lot of fellows, and their visit to our city was appreciated, as was beneficially attested by Ray Oliver, A. J. Dougherty, Tom J. Eaton, Byron Rudolph, M. H. Ewart, A. H. McMaster, I. Martin, and Frank L. Crampton, who went down into their pockets $11.50 worth for the banqueting of the clubs at the Central. This is commendable enterprise and drew warm appreciation from the visitors. Everything, both on the ball ground and socially, was perfectly harmonious: free from that jaw and blow usually heard in contest games. The Borders didn’t play the last half of the ninth inning, it being late, and they having the game anyhow.
AMERICA’S EAGLE!
How It Soared Over the Garden of Eden—Hunka Dora on High!
THE TERMINUS’ 4th CELEBRATION.
Struck by a Cyclone—$1,000 Damages—Big Crowd and Terrible Sickness.
VARIOUS DOINGS IN COWLEY.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 9, 1885.
Another ga-l-o-r-i-o-u-s Fourth has come and gone. The Great American Eagle of freedom has flapped off the ends of its wings, feasted on red lemonade, soda pop, and hunka dora speeches, and is laid up for repairs. Our reporter got in a balloon Friday evening and fell out at Arkansas City amid the roar of fire cracker and the shouts of the small boy with one suspender, a toy pistol, and fourteen sore fingers. The freight train was numerously loaded Friday evening with Winfield folks, to turn loose their liberty valve and see the white elephant from the tip of his tail to the end of his proboscis. Hitched to the tow string of Dick Howard, the genial Republican faberizer, and Charley McIntire, the pious man of the Democrat, our reporter was kept from under the chariot of over exuberance and numerous caldrons always set for the innocent. The American bosom heaves like a surging sea, on every Fourth of July, with an unquenchable desire to go somewhere, they don’t care where. The biggest end of Cowley rounded up at the terminus, seeing wonders in the air. At least ten thousand people were surging around looking at each other—men and matrons, young men and maidens, boys and girls. At 4 o’clock in the morning the First Light artillery, which had gone noiselessly from here during the night in charge of its captain, N. A. Haight, split the air in twain with cannon’s roar. At 10 o’clock the procession formed. It was headed by our juvenile band, under its splendid leader, Harry Halbrook, and we must remark right here that the boys distinguished themselves grandly, eliciting the highest praises from all. It was their first public appearance away from home and the proficiency they exhibited was a surprise to all. Their selections were beautiful and splendidly rendered throughout. The Buckskin Border Band of The Terminus, ten pieces, were out for the first time in their buckskin uniforms, fringed like unto the ranger of the plains. Their appearance was very unique and their playing good. It is a new band, and of course, is not yet at its best. The Winfield Fire Department marshaled by its chief, Will Clark, all in their bright uniforms, with cart and hose, with alarm bell attachment, was conceded to be the best feature of the procession. The procession was formed as follows: Winfield Juvenile Band; city government; Knights of Pythias; Winfield Fire Department; Buckskin Border Band; thirty uniformed little girls, representing the states; Ladies Relief Corps; Gents on Horseback; Rag Muffins; trade representations, citizens, etc. Rev. S. B. Fleming read the Declaration of Independence and Col. H. T. Sumner, of Arkansas City, delivered the oration. The grounds were in terrible shape owing to the late rains and backwater from the river. The approach was a half mile long and mud all the way. The weather clerk turned the crank the wrong way. The greased pole was the only public amusement on the grounds and a Winfield boy got the lucre off the top. Winfield usually gets there. Private enterprises for extorting, with as much ease and grace as possible, the lucre of the people, were as numerous as usual on such occasions. The public always takes so much money to a celebration and will get rid of it if they do have to give it away.
BASE BALL
The base ball contest between our Cyclones and the Border Club of Arkansas City was the biggest and best feature of the celebration, and the finest game, for interest and science, that has ever been played in the county. It was witnessed by over two thousand people and the interest was intense. At the end of the fourth inning, the game was eight to three in the Border’s favor. The Arkansas City fellows threw their hats in the air and emptied their pocket books in wagers. Then our boys began to go up and it became our fellows’ time to yell. The club purse was thirty dollars. The score stood as follows, at the close of the game.
[Could not read the statistical data well on innings, positions of players. Am just going to list the players on each team.]
CYCLONES:
Beam, pitcher; Tidd, Land, McMullen, Holbrook, Jones, Russel, Smith, Gray.
Total: 13 runs, 20 outs.
BORDERS:
Perryman, pitcher; Godfrey, Henderson, Miller, Wright, C. Wright, Hilliard, G. Wilson, J. Wilson.
Total: 12 runs, 22 outs.
At the announcement of Winfield’s victory, all was drowned in shouts by those of the winning side, while Arkansas City was very sick. The Winfield lookers on had their pockets about a thousand dollars fuller. Everything was perfectly harmonious throughout the game.
MISCELLANEOUS.
Arkansas City was numerously unfortunate in her celebration. She advertised remarkably well and got an immense crowd, but their attractions failed to materialize. Robt. T. Lincoln wasn’t there; the band of red-skins in battle array wasn’t there; the “Kansas Millers” steamer, stranded down the Arkansas, wasn’t there; and the excursion train was a snare. The base ball game was about the only thing to show up as expected.
AWFULLY SICK.
The sickest lot of humanity ever gathered together in Cowley County graced Arkansas City Saturday. By night about 1,000 men were almost overcome by “medicine.” Just how they obtained it will be shown later when the dispensers begin to quake under the cold arm of the law. A dozen or more are in the vice and are liable to be badly mashed. Such debauchery was a disgrace to our fair county, and of course received the frown of all good citizens of the terminus. “Medicine” flowed, in some places, with appalling boldness. The “cooler” and a dozen or so extra buildings were chuck full—of men. Last year’s celebration in this city was disgraced by but one or two plain drunks. Of course, in such a vast crowd this is remarkable—couldn’t have been so in any other city than Winfield. But Arkansas City was too sick. Her Drug Stores want dissecting, and they will get it. THE COURIER must confess Winfield’s share in this disgrace. Our boys, like the rest, let temptation steal their manhood on this occasion, and got several sheets in the wind, and are now lamenting it. The whim that the day excuses such actions is all bosh. It will never do it.
PROMISCUOUS.
Our Fire Department took the cake.
V. Beard was on hand, from here, with his peanut roaster, intoxicating everybody.
Our George Black raked in numerous sheckles with his elevated railway—a novel scheme.
Arthur Bangs took down the Juvenile Band and superintended his ’bus line to and from the grounds, doing a rousing business.
About 600 went down from Winfield. If the excursion train had come at ten, as expected, with coaches enough, 3,000 would have gone. Through the efforts of Agent Kennedy a train of six coaches was secured to bring our crowd back at 12 p.m.
Hank Paris and Green Wooden transported the Fire Companies down, and ran a hack to the grounds, wearing out six teams and filling their pockets—if they did have to give a mint as license.
Dick Howard of the Republican, extremely enthusiastic at first over the Borders, was so twisted by our Cyclones that he won’t recover for a month. He still persists that Arkansas City’s club can lay it over our boys.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 16, 1885.
Some member of high degree in the Ancient Order of Sons of Guns, plowed up, on his own gall and cheek, the Cyclone base ball grounds, on South Main street, Thursday night. The proprietor was perfectly willing that the boys should have the grounds and a lease was drawn up yesterday. The club will move their ground further south and fence it in. They offer five dollars reward for the one placing the rapscallion of the plow.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 16, 1885.
Our Cyclones will play the Douglass base ball club a contest game Tuesday week, in this city.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 16, 1885.
The Elk Falls Tribune, voicing the disappointment of the Elk base ball club because it couldn’t inflict the contest game between itself and our Cyclones with an unprincipled umpire, fires a half column of the thinnest gush at our boys. It is too thin for notice, a pack of lies formulated by disappointment at not scoring over our club as they did Burden’s. They struck baseballists here that were eye openers to them.
A. C. GETS THERE!
The Borders Save Their “Rep.” and put $120 in Their Pockets.
Easily Explained.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 23, 1885.
Our Cyclones got slightly scooped by the Border base ball club of Arkansas City, Thursday. They had beaten the Borders twice and were desirous of giving them one show—just one. So when the A. C. club sent in its challenge for a $100 contest, our boys accepted, and, in addition, conceded half the gate receipts. The Borders knew they were to be arranged against a white elephant and went out every afternoon for two weeks to spend a few hours in the scalding sun priming for the onslaught. Our boys were willing to give A. C. this game anyhow. The Borders were nice fellows and felt so discouraged over past defeats that it drew all the sympathy of which a Cyclone is capable. Our boys didn’t practice at all—didn’t touch a bat after the Fourth of July contest. They stayed in offices and stores, from under the sun’s scalding rays, with their Piccadilly collars and boiled shirts on. Clear through the game yesterday a “don’t-care-a-darn” move was maintained—a getting around as though their calves might get hurt or their joints come apart. Compared to their former brilliant playing, it was child’s play—a complete give-away to the Arkansas City fellows, for which they certainly ought to feel grateful. If our boys had left their study nooks, shed their “biled” shirts, and got out on their muscle for practice, as the A. C. boys did, they could have won the victory just as easily as “falling off a log.” It was amusing to see how the Borders did get down on their bats. They worked just as though it was a sure enough contest in which they might get beaten. The Cyclones take this seeming defeat in as good grace as expected. The only fellows mad are those whose pockets were singed. Good enough. They knew it was wicked to bet, and shouldn’t have done it. Our boys, now that they have so handsomely squared accounts with the Borders, will tear off their shirts and beat anything that comes along. Now, we expect Arkansas City will come up with a $5,000 challenge. A score of 34 to 11 certainly ought to be a little encouragement.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
Our Cyclones went up to Udall Friday afternoon for a little exercise with the Udall “Dudes.” They crossed hats for five innings, showing a little score of thirty-three for the Cyclones and twelve for the Dudes. The boys returned on the evening freight, having had a few hours acceptable recreation. The Udall boys received our club very agreeably. Met them with the band set up, the lemonade, etc. The “Dudes” pitcher got a bad hit on the forehead with a ball, and was spitting blood all night, supposed concussion of the brain.
[Another Base Ball Club: “Exterminators.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
The “Rough on Rats” base ball nine, of the Terminus, have challenged our “Exterminators” for a battle at that place on August 5th, next Wednesday, for the championship of the State. The A. C. nine are certainly unaware of the real exterminating qualities of our nine or they would never offer to sacrifice themselves. But let the E’s. blot them out and regain our “rep.,” lost so ignominiously by the Cyclones. The R. O. R. are composed of staunch businessmen who can make such a visit immense.
[Another Base Ball Club: “Dispatches.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
The Dispatches, wicked fellows, got on their red, white, and blue base ball lights, and accompanied by a number of spectators, lit out Sunday to play a game with the Dexter club. Arriving there no base ballists could be found—they were all at Sunday school, and after moseying around in the hot sun for a few hours, our boys betook themselves for home, sadder but wiser. It was a very effective sermon. It gave the boys religion and never again will they depart from the straight and narrow path of the Sunday catechism.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
The Dispatches had a battle with the Walnut Valley Starts, a club composed of the railroaders of the K. C. & S. W., on the Fair Grounds Monday. Our boys got the score, 23 to 13. The railroaders battled our boys nearly out of the diamond in the first few innings, but the Dispatches waked up like magic and got there in good shape.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 6, 1885.
Our Dispatches, a base ball club just born, played a game on the Fair Grounds Saturday evening with the Southwesterns, from five miles above town. Seven innings were played, showing twenty-two of our boys and five for their opponents.
UDALL SENTINEL CLIPS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 13, 1885.
The game of ball between the Udall Dudes and the Winfield club came off last Friday afternoon as advertised. The boys were in good shape to play and everything passed off pleasantly until a foul ball struck Tom Norton, the catcher, square in the eye. This accident to one of their best players rattled the Dudes badly, and when two more of their players got hurt, one by a broken finger and the other by catching the ball in the leg, they were so broken up that the Winfield nine, after four innings, won the game easily by eighteen tallies. A large crowd witnessed the game, and had it not been for these accidents, the Winfield boys would have found a nine worthy of their mettle. One of the visiting club caught a ball on his cheek, which made a very painful bruise.
[“Cyclones” and “Exterminators.”]
A NOVEL WAGER.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 20, 1885.
While the base ball fever seems to be at fever heat all over the country and clubs play for love, for skill, and for money, the wager in New Mexico comes nearer the ideal of the average player. We notice from an exchange, the Silver City Enterprise, that a game was just on the qui vive and the wager was to be beer. Money is somewhat exhilarating, for money and a good prescription are the essentials to obtain beer, but just think of it, ye “Cyclones,” ye “Exterminators,” the wager a big drink of beer on ice. What fresh exertions, what super-human efforts would be made to make a tally? Nary a ball would be muffed, and flies would constantly be in the air; and again, there would be no trouble in procuring aspirants for the game. If beer was the wager in this country, the base ball fever would be far more intense than now.
ARCHERY.
Young Ladies Archery Club.
Winfield Courier, August 26, 1880.
The Young Ladies Archery Club will meet with Miss Sarah Hodges, Thursday evening, at 5 o’clock sharp. It is desired that all the members be present.
Winfield Archery Club.
Winfield Courier, July 14, 1881.
Quincy Glass and Dr. Vawter have organized an archery club. Mr. Glass is a crack marksman.
Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.
The Archery Club meets Friday afternoon at Riverside Park for their second shoot. Those desiring to witness the sport should be on hand at 3:00 o’clock.
Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.
The Winfield Archery Club met at Riverside Park Friday afternoon for their first shoot. The distance was 30 yards at four foot targets. For novices the shooting was excellent. Mr. Glass scored in fifty-two hits 135. It is the most exhilarating sport we have ever engaged in, and we do not remember of passing a pleasanter afternoon for years. [Greer was a member.]
Winfield Courier, July 28, 1881.
Fred Hunt has purchased an archery outfit and will join the “successors of Robin Hood” in the wildwood about Riverside Park next Friday. As he has heretofore been a target for cupid’s arrows, many will be anxious to know how he succeeds when handling the bow himself.
Winfield Courier, August 4, 1881.
The managers of Riverside Park intend erecting a small house on the grounds for the use of the Archery Club in which to keep their targets and implements of war.
Winfield Courier, September 1, 1881.
The Archery Club shot a shoot at Riverside Park, Friday. The Telegram man was on hand with a hickory club and carried off the leather medal.
Winfield Courier, October 6, 1881.
A new score book for the Winfield Archery club was received Monday. It is a decided improvement on any we have seen and is as complete as one can be made. It is the work of Fred C. Hunt, and is from the press of Hamilton & Curd.
Winfield Courier, October 6, 1881.
Quincy Glass went up to Wichita last week to see the crack archers of that city shoot. The weather prevented the shoot, but Quincy made partial arrangements with the team for a contest between the clubs of the two towns.
Cowley County Courant, December 22, 1881.
Quincy Glass, captain of the archery club, has purchased a new snake-wood bow, which is a beauty. The archery season is over, and our Robin Hoods can let their fingers get well.
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1882.
The Archery Club dares not organize this summer, for they can’t shoot in any direction without hitting a candidate or two.
Winfield Courier, June 1, 1882.
The Archery Club had their first meeting this year on last Friday.
Cowley County Courant, June 8, 1882.
The United Workmen have learned a secret outside of their lodge room, and that is, never postpone a picnic to beat the weather. If the weather proves bad on the day set, adjourn sine die. The Winfield Lodge of United Workmen took every step needful to make their picnic a success. It was evident on Tuesday night that the skies would not be propitious on Thursday, the 25th, the day first named, whereupon the committee on arrangements concluded to postpone the picnic till Tuesday, and at once either wrote or telegraphed the postponement to every lodge that had been invited. The Workmen lodge at Leon and the Select Knights of Wellington failed to receive the notice, and sent delegations over for Thursday. They had no picnic, but took the opportunity to go over Winfield and take it in under an umbrella. Monday afternoon everything looked favorable, and Tuesday morning, the day last appointed, promised fine weather. All the committees were alive and put things in shape for a gala day at the Park. The stand was decorated with wreaths of flowers and emblems of the order. D. F. Best allowed the lodge to use one of his splendid organs, and that was taken to the stand. There were swings and croquet provided, and the Archery Club commenced to gather in their marksmen and women of the bow. The stands stood loaded with refreshments and the Park in its dress of green looked lovely enough for a section out of Paradise, and the Workmen were happy. At 11 o’clock a.m., the procession was formed on Main street under the leadership of W. J. Hodges, marshal of the day, and took up its line of march to the Park. Oxford and Arkansas City Lodges A. O. U. W. were in the ranks. The Good Templars of this city, with their band of hope, joined in. But soon after the Park was reached, black clouds began to darken the sky in the southwest, and low, threatening peals of thunder alarmed the gathered crowd, and it soon became evident that the picnic there must be given up. Announcement was then made that the program of exercises would be gone through with at the Opera House, and thither repaired all of the picnickers who did not go home. Baskets loaded full of good things were opened in the hall, strangers present invited to refresh the inner man, and the situation endured as well as possible. About half past 2 o’clock a broken program was carried out, while the rain was falling heavily outside. Rev. C. H. Canfield made the opening prayer. There was a song rendered in the usual excellent style by the Grace Church choir. Prof. Trimble addressed a few words in welcome to the visitors. The main features of the afternoon were the two fine addresses delivered, one by W. R. Sheen, of Lawrence, Kansas, Grand Master Workman of the order in the State, and the other by E. M. Forde, Grand Recorder. These we hope to give our readers soon in print.
A social and reception was called for in the evening and all Winfield invited to come, and that proved to be an enjoyable affair. From 8 o’clock to 12 o’clock crowds of young and old promenaded in the hall, partaking of ice cream, or of that even more delicious reflection, soft things whispered in contiguous ears, evolving rosy blushes and sparkling eyes. Between 9 and 10 o’clock the seats were put in place, and J. F. McMullen, Master Workman of the Lodge, and J. Wade McDonald entertained the audience with brief impromptu speeches. The audience resumed their promenading, flirting, chatting, etc. There was also some impromptu music and harp and banjo playing till a late hour when the affair broke up. Picnicking in an Opera House is much like skating on a parlor floor—a poor substitute for the real thing. Yet the Workmen did the best they could under the circumstances. An amphitheater or pavilion at Riverside Park would have been worth “millions” to them yesterday. When can we have it?
Winfield Courier, August 3, 1882.
The Archery Club held a meeting for target practice in the park last Thursday afternoon. A quorum of the club was present and the shooting was excellent. We shall publish the next score.
Note: There were gun clubs that started in 1878. Sometimes the newspaper called the “Gun Club” and at other times they got confused as to whether they were the “Sportsman Club,” the “Sportsmen’s Club” or the “Sportsmens Club.” I have changed all entries that show variations of the word to “Sportsmen’s Club” in order to be consistent.
Winfield Gun Club.
Winfield Courier, October 31, 1878.
The Winfield gun club have received their glass balls, and tomorrow afternoon at two o’clock they will have a shoot northeast of town on Manny’s farm.
Sportsmen’s Club.
Winfield Courier, November 3, 1881.
Today the grand hunt of the sportsmen’s club takes place. The boys started out this morning bright and early, armed to the teeth, and were enough to scare a poor little quail or rabbit out of its wits; although if the poor things were sensible, they would know they were in no danger. Jo Harter is the captain of one gang and Amasa Speed of the other. There are ten sportsmen on each side and the losers must pay for a grand banquet at the Brettun tomorrow evening. Each shooter must declare Under oath that he bagged the game he brings in. A bear counts 500. We hope Charley Black will get two bears.
Winfield Courier, October 19, 1882.
The Winfield Sportsmen’s club met at the Brettun House parlors the evening of the 16th and elected their annual officers: C. C. Black, President; J. N. Harter, Vice President; Jacob Nixon, Secretary; and J. S. Hunt, Treasurer. Eleven new members enrolled. Second annual hunt to take place November 2nd, followed by a supper at the Brettun, at the expense of the losing side.
Winfield Courier, October 26, 1882.
Winfield Sportsmen’s Club will meet at the “Brettun” on Monday evening the 30th inst., to elect captains and make final arrangements.
Winfield Courier, October 26, 1882.
The grand annual hunt of the Winfield Gun Club takes place next Thursday, Nov. 2nd. About forty sportsmen will be in the field. We would advise our readers not to allow their ducks to wander far from home on that day.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1882.
Sporting News. The Grand Annual hunt of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club took place last Thursday. The club met at the Brettun House Monday evening and elected J. N. Harter and Fred Whitney captains. Each hunter, with the advice of his captain, selected his route, and most of them went out to the field the evening before. The following is the score.
J. N. Harter, Capt., 2,700; Jas. Vance, 1,400; Frank Clark, 1,140; Frank Manny, 200; Jacob Nixon, 1,780; Ezra Meech, 620; Sol Burkhalter, 610; Dr. Davis, 310; C. Trump, 150; Ed. P. Greer, 160; E. C. Stewart, 120; G. L. Rinker, 360. TOTAL: 9,550.
Fred Whitney, Capt., 110; G. W. Prater, 290; J. S. Hunt, 1,130; C. C. Black, 1,070; Jas. McLain, 1,000; A. S. Davis, 100; H. Saunders, 130; Q. A. Glass, 240; A. D. Speed, 240; Dr. Emerson, 190; J. S. Mann, 100; J. B. Lynn, 000. TOTAL: 4,660.
The gold medal was won by Mr. Harter. The tin medal will be won by J. B. Lynn. On next Wednesday evening the nimrods will banquet at the Brettun, at the expense of the losing side. The score made by Mr. Harter has never been equaled in this county.
Winfield Courier, November 23, 1882.
The gold medal awarded to J. N. Harter for the best score, by the Sportsmen’s Club, is now in the possession of that gentleman. It is an excellent trophy and Mr. Harter may well feel proud of it. One is awarded annually. We expect to have one before the next democratic president is elected.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
Frank Clarke, of Vernon, made the biggest score last Thursday ever made by any member of the Sportsmen’s Club. It counted thirty-three hundred and sixty, and embraced fifty-three crows, thirty-one quails, six wild geese, a lot of rabbits, and other game. Frank is entitled to the belt.
Winfield Courier, April 19, 1883.
The Winfield Gun Club had their weekly glass ball shoot Tuesday. After the shooting a business meeting was held at which Chas. C. Black was elected Captain and Ed. P. Greer Secretary. A communication from the Arkansas City Club was considered and an invitation extended to that club to participate in a match shoot on next Tuesday as the guests of the Winfield Club. The following is Tuesday’s score.
[DO NOT UNDERSTAND THEIR METHOD OF SCORING....SKIPPED!]
NAMES OF MEMBERS MENTIONED:
Manny, Harter, McLain, Whiting, Black, Lockwood, Greer, Clark.
Winfield Courier, April 26, 1883.
The Match Shooting.
By invitation, the Arkansas City Gun Club was present at the weekly meeting of the Winfield Club on Tuesday. The score on ten balls each was as follows.
[Putting down Totals Only.]
ARKANSAS CITY CLUB: TOTAL 45.
SHOOTERS: Parish, Young, Steadman, Speers, Shelden, Breene.
WINFIELD CLUB: TOTAL 47.
SHOOTERS: McLain, Vance, Clark, Whiting, Manny, Black.
Following this was a match with five balls each, which resulted as follows.
ARKANSAS CITY: TOTAL 18.
PLAYERS: Parish, Young, Steadman, Shelden, Breene.
WINFIELD: TOTAL 16.
PLAYERS: Vance, McLain, Clark, Black, Whiting.
Quite a crowd of spectators were present. Mr. Parish, of the Arkansas City Club, broke every ball in both matches, but two of them were broken just as they touched the ground and were ruled out by the referee, as were several balls broken in the same way by the Winfield Club. The Arkansas City boys were the guests of the Winfield Club during their stay in the city.
Winfield Courier, May 10, 1883.
The Gun club has discovered a second Bogardus in the person of Geo. Miller. He had never tried shooting at glass balls until Tuesday when he went out and broke fifteen straight. George will be a terror to the rest of the club.
Winfield Courier, July 5, 1883.
The weekly tournament of the Winfield Gun Club came off Thursday afternoon on the old fair grounds. The shooting was not so good as usual. The following is the score:
Jas. McLain 1-14; W. J. McLain, 1-12; J. N. Harter, 0-14; Frank Manny, 1-10; C. C. Black, 1-13; Ed. P. Greer, 1-10; C. E. Steuven, 1-10; Frank Lockwood, 1-9; T. H. Soward, 1-9.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1883.
Winfield Sportsmen’s Club.
The annual meeting of the above named Club will be held at the Telegram office in Winfield on Saturday, next Oct. 6th, at 7 o’clock p.m., for the purpose of electing officers; receiving new members; and making arrangements for the annual hunt. Members and all those desirous of becoming so and taking part in the annual hunt are invited to be present.
By order of the President.
Winfield Courier, October 11, 1883.
The Howard Gun Club, of twenty-five, will be over during the reunion and have a grand glass ball tournament. The members of the Winfield club are getting ready for the match.
Winfield Courier, October 11, 1883.
All persons who desire to take part in the grand annual hunt of the gun club, which occurs November 1st, will meet at the Telegram office Saturday evening.
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1883.
The grand annual hunt of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club came off last Thursday. The captains were Jas. H. Vance and Jas. McLain. There were twelve hunters on each side, but several could not go, leaving ten on Capt. Vance’s side and only eight on Capt. McLain’s. The count was as follows:
Jas. Vance, Captain: 1,520; Frank Clark: 1,910; J. S. Hunt: 1,835; Kyle McClung: 1,130; J. Cochran: 1,855; W. P. Beaumont: 1,010; Frank Lockwood: 370; A. T. Spotswood: 205; A. S. Davis: 1,125. TOTAL FOR VANCE TEAM: 10,970
Jas. McClain, Captain: 1,230; J. N. Harter: 1,120; C. C. Black: 715; G. W. Prater: 970; Fred Whiting: 1,245; Ezra Meech: 3,420; Judge E. S. Torrance: 865; Wilson Foster: 1,380. TOTAL McCLAIN TEAM: 10,945.
Capt. Vance’s side having made 25 points the most was declared the victor.
The annual Banquet and presentation of the medals was held at the Brettun Saturday evening. It was an elegant affair and one of the most enjoyable of the season. In a neat and appropriate speech, Mr. C. C. Black presented the gold medal, awarded for the highest score, to Mr. Ezra Meech, who responded to the toast “How did you catch ’em?” with a full description of his days report and the methods he so successfully employed in bagging the festive little “cotton tail.” Next came the presentation of the tin medal, by M. G. Troup, which was done in that gentleman’s happiest vein. The recipient, A. T. Spotswood, responded in a short speech. After other toasts the company adjourned for business at which it was decided to hunt again with the same sides, on November 22nd. This is the third annual hunt of the club, and has been more successful than its predecessors.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1883.
At the recent annual hunt of the Sportsmen’s Club, there were killed altogether one hundred and eighty-two rabbits, one hundred and thirty-five quails, eighty-one crows, thirty-eight ducks, twenty-two hawks, seventeen squirrels, seven prairie chickens, two owls, two ’possums, two skunks, one muskrat, one mink, one crane, and one snipe. It seemed to be a better day for rabbits than anything else. The killing of one hundred and eighty-two rabbits is that many fruit trees saved. Another Hunt will take place next Thursday.
Winfield Courier, November 29, 1883.
In the hunt last week by the Sportsmen’s Club, there were two hundred and eighty rabbits killed. One man brought in fifty. This has been an off year for rabbits.
Winfield Courier, October 16, 1884.
The annual meeting of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club was held at the Telegram office last Friday evening. A large number were admitted to membership and the day for the grand annual hunt fixed for Tuesday, Nov. 11th. Committees were appointed on banquet and medals and a meeting for the election of Captains, choosing up and taking in new members called for Friday evening, the 24th at the Telegram office. All persons from the country or elsewhere who desire to participate in the hunt are invited.
Winfield Courier, November 13, 1884.
Sportsmen’s Club.
The annual hunt of the Sportsmen’s Club came off last Friday. The annual banquet came off Monday evening at the Brettun, and was a very pleasant affair. The banquet was presided over by Mr. C. C. Black, president of the club. The gold medal was presented to Mr. Ezra Meech, the winner, by Mr. G. H. Allen in a neat speech. This was followed by the presentation of the tin medal to Ed. P. Greer, by Judge T. H. Soward. Mr. Soward’s speech was a happy effort and was received by rounds of applause. After a reply from the recipient, the club resolved itself into an experience meeting, and the various haps and mishaps were recited by the participants. About a thousand rabbits, more or less, were exterminated by the hunters. But very few quail were killed, the count being purposely placed very low. These annual hunts and banquets are becoming more popular year by year.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 12, 1885.
The Winfield Sportsmen’s Club held its annual meeting Monday night at A. H. Doane’s office. Officers were elected for the coming year: Joe Harter, president; Q. A. Glass, secretary, and A. H. Doane, treasurer. The day of the annual hunt was fixed on Wednesday, November 18. President Harter, James McLain, and James Vance were made a committee to revise the game score. Thirty new names were handed in for membership. The Club meet next Monday evening to make final arrangements for the hunt. This Club’s annual hunt have occasioned for years more genuine recreation and fun than anything ever inaugurated in the sporting line. But game is not as plentiful as yore, making the boys scramble to run up a big score. They always wind up with a big banquet at the Brettun.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 19, 1885.
Now the expectant sportsman wrestles around to get a bird dog to assist him in raking in the game and the medal of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club. The one fortunate enough to own a canine is grooming him with tenderest care, feeding him on pound cake, and whistling the whippoorwills song in his left ear. And the dogs like it.
OUR FESTIVE SPORTSMEN.
A Day Amid Shot and Shell.
Game Scarce and Scores Small.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 26, 1885.
The annual hunt of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club, yesterday, was all in a conglomerate mass on the floor of the Brettun House office last evening, where President Harter and Secretary Glass conducted the count of the terrible slaughter and gave the individual scores. It was a tired crowd of hunters, many of them looking very sad eyed. The unlucky ones swore on a stack of powder that Cowley County is just about gameless—some of them didn’t see a cotton tail all day; yes, some of them didn’t see anything, which is verified by the nonentity of their score; but hardly by the appearance of their ammunition, which seems to whisper, “wasted on the desert air.” But an honest consultation of hunters was unanimous in the verdict that they never did so much traveling for so little game. The game appeared to have been notified of its impending fate and crawled in its hole. Capt. Huffman’s division laid it over Capt. Hunt’s division by a good majority. The losing side sets up the banquet at the Brettun tonight, when a big time is anticipated. James McLain, as last year, bobbed up serenely with the champion score and raked in the gold medal. Dr. Riley, with a score of 20, raked in the tin medal.
THE SCORE.
Huffman’s Division.
P. A. Huffman, 1620; Jas. McLain, 1755; J. N. Harter, 410; Fred Whiting, 665; K. McClung, 765; Chas. Holmes, 730; F. Kessinger, 180; John Eaton, 235; J. R. Handy, 1130; Q. A. Glass, 115; Dr. J. G. Evans, 385; Dr. Emerson, 385; Dr. Riley, 20; J. B. Garvin, 215; T. J. Harris, 65; L. M. Williams, 170. Total: 8,845.
Hunt’s Division.
J. S. Hunt, 595; Jas. Vance, 705; F. Clark (didn’t hunt); Jap Cochran, 955; H. D. Gans, 910; J. B. Nipp, 805; J. Denning (didn’t hunt); Geo. Jennings, 805; M. L. Devore, 320; Geo. Headrick, 390; A. H. Doane (didn’t hunt); Geo. McIntire, 320; G. L. Rinker, 220; J. Barnthouse, 260; Hop Shivvers, 260; D. McCutcheon (didn’t hunt). Total: 6,445.
THE SPORTSMEN’S BANQUET.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 26, 1885.
Thursday night was the occasion of the annual banquet of the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club. The annual hunt occurred the day before, the victors and defeated had received their scores, and now was another meeting, to eat, drink (water), and be merry; the “greenies,” or unfortunates, telling how they walked and walked, and fired and fired, and came out with only a few cotton-tails; and the victors were to explain how they managed it in getting so much salt on the tails of their game. The banquet, of course, was spread in the large dining hall of the Brettun, “set up” by the losing division, under Captain Hunt. Messrs. Harter & Hill did themselves proud in the preparation of the banquet, a magnificent array of about everything obtainable in the culinary art, with waiters most attentive. At nine o’clock the feast began, partaken of by the following.
Victors: P. A. Huffman, captain; Jas. McLain, J. N. Harter, Fred Whiting, K. McClung, Chas. Holmes, F. Kessinger, John Eaton, J. R. Handy, Q. A. Glass, Dr. J. G. Evans, Dr. Emerson, Dr. Riley, J. B. Garvin, T. J. Harris, L. M. Williams.
Defeated and had to set ’em up: J. S. Hunt, captain; Jas. Vance, F. Clark, Jap Cochran, H. D. Gans, J. B. Nipp, J. Denning, Geo. Jennings, M. L. Devore, Geo. Headrick, A. H. Doane, Geo. McIntire, G. L. Rinker, J. Barnthouse, Hop Shivvers, D. McCutcheon.
Judge Soward, an old member of the club, Ed. G. Gray, the scribe and a few others, were admitted to the feastorial court as guests.
The feast over, Judge Gans, in a happy speech characteristic of the Judge, presented James McLain, whose score of 1755 made him the champion “sport” of the club, with the gold medal, a beautiful solid shield, engraved: “Presented to James McLain by the Winfield Sportsmen’s Club, for the highest game score, in 1885.” Jim was all “broke up,” as he should be, and asked John A. Eaton to the rescue for a response. John is always equal to any occasion and set the crowd in a roar with his unique remarks. Then came the presentation of the tin medal to Dr. Riley, for his lowest score of 20. Judge Soward’s wit bubbled out in a speech very witty and sparkling, full of happy hits. The Doctor’s response was very appropriate. Lively toasts on the “pot-shot,” the “professional shot,” and various subjects were dissected by Huffman, Vance, Emerson, Nipp, and others. It was a very happy occasion throughout, one to be long remembered.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 26, 1885.
Jim McLain now sports his fine gold medal, won as the champion hunter of the Sportsmen’s Club, on his watch chain. It makes an elegant charm.
[Name Changed to “Winfield Gun Club” Again.]
GLASS BALL SHOOT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 15, 1886.
John A. Eaton, James McLain, Joe Harter, T. H. Soward, Jim Vance, A. H. Doane, and Sol Burkhalter girded their loins and went forth to the old fair grounds Thursday afternoon to knock the wadding out of glass balls—the first shoot of the season. Each shot at twenty balls. McLain broke 17, Vance 15, Burkhalter 14, Harter 13, Soward 13, Eaton 13, Doane 4. This was good shooting for the first practice. The Winfield Gun Club will shortly be reorganized, with the Peoria blackbird, a new invention, instead of the glass balls. ’Tis fine sport and the re-initiation of yesterday afternoon gave these shootists a bad dose of the old-time fever.
GYMNASIUM CLUB.
Gymnasium Club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 26, 1885.
Belva Lockwood, candidate for president at the late election, will entertain a Winfield audience with a lecture, on the evening of April 1st. The Gymnasium Club has guaranteed her price, sixty-five dollars. She is a very captivating speaker and will have a large audience. Subject: “Political and social life in Washington.”
ACTIVITIES CONDUCTED WITHIN HALLS, HOMES, ETC.
Dramatic, Literary, and Musical Clubs.
Musical and Dramatic Club of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 2, 1873.
Tonight and tomorrow night our citizens will be favored with an entertainment to be given by the Musical and Dramatic Club of Winfield, which will eclipse all other entertainments of the kind, ever given in this place. There will be an interesting Drama in connection with the regular entertainment. An entire change of programme each evening.
Winfield Literary and Dramatic Club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 9, 1873.
We understand that our county attorney made his mark as the prince of wire-pullers by the manner in which he handled the wires attached to the curtains at the entertainment given by the Winfield Literary and Dramatic Club, last week. Wire-pulling is getting popular.
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1874.
The Winfield Literary and Dramatic Club will give an entertainment under the management of T. A. Wilkinson, on Thursday, Sept. 30. A full programme will appear in next week’s issue. The proceeds are to be applied in paying for the Public School Organ. Great pains will be taken to make this the best affair of the kind ever held in Winfield. Mrs. Russell of Wichita, one of the finest singers in the state, and Professors Hulse and E. J. Hoyt are expected to aid in the entertainment.
Amateur Dramatic Club.
Winfield Courier, March 3, 1881.
The “Amateur Dramatic Club” will give an entertainment at the Opera House Thursday evening for the benefit of the Vernon Library Association. The club has given several entertainments in Vernon township, which have been well attended and very entertaining.
Ivanhoe Club.
Winfield Courier, November 10, 1881.
The “Ivanhoe Club” is the name of an association of young ladies and gentlemen in this city: object, mutual improvement. It has twenty members.
Winfield Courier, December 29, 1881.
The Ivanhoe Club will meet with Mrs. M. L. Robinson on next Tuesday evening.
Cowley County Courant, February 2, 1882.
The reading club met last evening at Miss Beeny’s, there being a good attendance. After the installation of officers for the ensuing year, the program was given by Mr. Smith, Miss Scothorn, Miss K. Millington, and Miss Lizzie Wallis. The program for the next meeting of the Ivanhoe Club will consist of selections by Mr. Connell, Mr. C. Bahntge, Mr. Lovell H. Webb, Mrs. Fred Hunt, Miss Allie Klingman, and Miss Jennie Haine.
H. Goldsmith and C. H. Connell were admitted to membership in the club.
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club met again with Mrs. Charlie Bahntge on last Tuesday evening. Her house is always open to entertain her friends.
Winfield Courier, January 12, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club at their regular meeting Tuesday evening elected the following officers for the ensuing year: W. C. Robinson, President; Chas. F. Bahntge, Vice President; Miss Florence Beeny, Secretary; Miss Amy Scothorn, Treasurer. The next meeting will be held at the residences of Mrs. Beeny.
Winfield Courier, February 2, 1882.
The Ivanhoe club will meet next Tuesday evening with the Misses Wallis.
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club propose giving a fine social reception at the Opera House and invite all their friends, before long. If they conclude to do so it will be one of the finest social affairs ever given here.
Cowley County Courant, March 23, 1882.
The young people in placing the play of “Esmeralda” upon the stage were greatly assisted by Mr. Boles, clerk for J. S. Mann. Mr. Boles has had several years experience in the dramatic line, and proved a valuable assistant to the club.
Cowley County Courant, March 23, 1882.
The play of Esmeralda, given Thursday by the Winfield Dramatic Club, brought out one of the largest houses the opera house has seen for a long time. The general expression is that the play was “first rate,” and we do not hesitate to endorse the sentiment. The parts were well taken, and the make-up and general rendition of the play would have been no discredit to many professional troupes. There is no doubt but that Winfield possesses ample ability in this line to support a flourishing dramatic club, and we would like to see one on a firm and permanent foundation.
Cowley County Courant, March 30, 1882.
The Winfield Dramatic Club will reproduce the beautiful drama, “Esmeralda” at the opera house one evening week after next, the proceeds to be applied to the benefit of the M. E. Church. The M. E. choir will also furnish some splendid music in connection with the play.
Cowley County Courant, March 30, 1882.
In behalf of the ladies of the Library Association, allow me to extend to the members of the Ivanhoe Club, who rendered so acceptably the society drama, “Esmeralda,” our heartfelt thanks. We appreciate the effort as much for the interest shown in this philanthropic work as for the money received, although there has never been a time in the history of the association when money has been more needed. The handsome sum of fifty-two dollars and seventy-five cents was netted to the society. We hope the club will feel encouraged from the large house given them, and that we may again be honored with an opportunity of listening to them. MRS. E. T. TRIMBLE, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, March 30, 1882.
The dramatic club will repeat “Esmeralda” soon for the benefit of the Methodist Church. They will be greeted by a tremendous audience.
Winfield Courier, March 30, 1882.
In behalf of the Library Association, allow me to extend to the members of the Ivanhoe Club, who rendered so acceptably the popular society drama, “Esmeralda,” our heartfelt thanks. We appreciate the effort as much for the interest shown in this philanthropic work as for the money received; although there has never been a time in the history of the Association when money has been more needed. The handsome sum of fifty-two dollars and seventy-five cents ($52.75) was netted to the society. We hope the club will feel encouraged from the large house given them and that we may again be honored with an opportunity of listening to them. COMMITTEE.
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1882.
On next Tuesday evening the Ivanhoe Club will meet with Mrs. Frank Barclay.
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club are arranging to give a public reading to invited friends at the Opera House next Tuesday evening. The invitations will be out in a day or two, and the affair promises to be one of the “toniest” of the season.
Winfield Courier, April 20, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club, which has been holding regular meetings all winter, gave an entertainment on Tuesday evening to which their friends were invited. Over three hundred invitations were given and with but few exceptions were responded to by the presence of those invited. A program consisting of select readings, recitations, and music was rendered, after which the guests were invited to remain and participate in a social dance. Each and every part was well sustained and the entire evening was satisfactorily passed, the audience expressing themselves well pleased. The entertainment opened by a chorus by the club, entitled “Be Happy.”
Mr. Chas. H. Connell then recited in an excellent manner a poem by C. G. Eastman called “A Snow-storm.” It depicted a New England scene in mid winter and Mr. Connell brought out the beauties of the poem in an interesting and spirited manner.
Miss McCoy rendered upon the piano, Mill’s “Tarantolle,” which was beautifully performed and well received, after which a short temperance piece called “A Toast” was given by Miss Jessie Millington.
A duet, “Two Loving Sisters,” by two charming young ladies, Miss Jennie Hane and Miss Josie Bard, was beautifully sung. Miss Bard sings without any apparent effort and has a sweet, well cultivated voice which it is always a pleasure to listen to, while Miss Hane’s alto is superb.
Mr. W. H. Smith read “The Chapel Bell,” an excellent poem by J. G. Saxe. It is needless to say that it was well read.
Misses McCoy, Beeny, and Bard then favored the company by a finely executed piano trio “Fra Diavolo” by Czerny.
“Paul Revere’s Ride,” recited by Miss Florence Beeny, was one of the finest selections on the program and Miss Beeny did it full justice, her rendition showing a full conception of the subject and a perfectly cultivated voice.
A beautiful solo, “When the tide comes in,” by William Harrison, was sung by Miss Josie Bard and was received with enthusiasm. She was loudly encored, which was responded to in their behalf by Mr. Connell, by request of the club, with the charming Irish son of “The Horse shoe Over the Door,” which delighted the audience as well.
That grand old poem, “Oh, Why Should the Spirit of Mortal be Proud?” was read in an expressive manner by Mr. F. C. Hunt, which was followed by a piano recitation by Miss Beeny, which was beautiful.
“An Order for a Picture,” one of Alice Carey’s sweet poems, was read by Mr. W. C. Robinson in a natural and expressive style and received many compliments. Mr. Robinson then made a few remarks relative to the proceedings of the club meetings heretofore and expressed much pleasure in entertaining the friends of the Ivanhoe Club, and announced the next meeting on next Tuesday evening at the residence of Mr. M. L. Robinson.
Messrs. Snow and Buckman and Misses Bard and Hane closed the literary part of the entertainment with a “Good Night” song and the audience was dismissed, a large number of whom remained to participate in the dance, which with the excellent music furnished by the Roberts Brothers, was enjoyed by all.
The club wish to express their thanks to Mrs. Buckman for the use of her piano, and to Messrs. Buckman and Snow for their kindness in lending their voices to perfect the music.
Winfield Courier, April 27, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club met Tuesday evening at M. L. Robinson’s residence. After the program M. L. threw open his elegant parlors and for two hours the young folks had a jolly round of dancing and promenades. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are perfect entertainers and always make their guests feel at home. The place for the next meeting has not been decided upon.
Winfield Courier, May 4, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club will meet with Mrs. A. T. Spotswood on Tuesday evening of next week.
Winfield Courier, May 25, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club intends giving a picnic sometime next month.
Winfield Courier, June 22, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club will have a picnic Thursday afternoon. This will be the closing gathering of the season.
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1882.
A very pleasant party, members of the Ivanhoe Club, assembled at Riverside Park Thursday afternoon to picnic and have a good time. Quite a number were present.
Winfield Courier, October 12, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club held their first meeting of the season at the residence of R. E. Wallis last Tuesday evening. They established a program of exercises and adjourned to meet at the residence of Dr. Emerson on Tuesday evening the 24th.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
The Ivanhoe Club met at Mrs. M. L. Robinson’s Tuesday evening. They read “Katharina,” and the evening was spent most pleasantly.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1882.
The Ivanhoe’s will meet on next Tuesday evening with Miss Florence Beeny, at which time the club will conclude the reading of “Katharina.”
Winfield Courier, January 18, 1883.
At the last meeting of the Ivanhoe Club, the annual election of officers took place. The election was a follows: President, W. H. Smith; Vice President, Geo. W. Robinson; Secretary, Miss Theresa Goldsmith; Treasurer, Miss Lizzie Wallis. The Club begins its new administration under favorable auspices and is certainly a very pleasant and enjoyable company, and we presume our young friends are improving greatly under its instruction. However, it is to be hoped that they will see to it to give another entertainment, such as that given last year. It would certainly be well received. The club meets next Tuesday evening with the Misses Aldrich.
Winfield Courier, February 1, 1883.
The next meeting of the Ivanhoe Club will be held at the home of W. H. Smith, Tuesday, February 6th, with the following programme for miscellaneous reading: Misses E. Crippen, A. Aldrich, A. Klingman, F. Beeny, T. Goldsmith; Messrs. L. Zenor, E. Nixon, W. Wilson, Geo. Robinson. The readers are expected to be present and prepared, or appoint a substitute. Theresa Goldsmith, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, April 5, 1883.
The Ivanhoe Club has decided to give another of their unique entertainments in a few weeks. It will be similar to the one given last year.
Winfield Courier, April 26, 1883.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Bahntge has been offered for the next meeting of the Ivanhoe Club on Tuesday, May 1. The following are on duty for miscellaneous selections: Miss Kate Millington, Mr. W. C. Smith, Miss Theresa Goldsmith, L. H. Webb, Mrs. Emerson, Mr. W. J. Wilson, Miss Allie Klingman, and Mr. C. F. Bahntge. As the club is to adjourn for the summer and as preliminary arrangements for a “Basket Picnic” are to be made, the members are earnestly solicited to attend. THERESA GOLDSMITH, Secretary.
Winfield Dramatic Club.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1882.
The Winfield Dramatic Club was organized at the Telegram office last Wednesday evening, D. L. Kretsinger, President; Will Robinson, Vice-president; Charlie Bahntge, Secretary; Richard M. Bowles, Stage Manager; and Will Wilson, Treasurer. The membership was limited to twenty and all admissions must be by unanimous vote. The charter members are A. T. Spotswood, W. C. Robinson, D. L. Kretsinger, W. J. Wilson, Sam E. Davis, L. D. Zenor, R. M. Bowles, C. F. Bahntge, L. H. Webb, Henry Goldsmith, E. E. Thorpe, and Ed. P. Greer.
Temperance Dramatic Club.
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1882.
The drama of “Fruits of the Wine Cup,” to be given in the Opera House next Thursday evening by the Temperance Dramatic Club, is one of the best temperance plays published. The club has been about six weeks preparing it for the stage. The entertainment will conclude with the laughable farce of “A Drop Too Much.”
Winfield Courier, November 30, 1882.
A number of our most enthusiastic young temperance workers have formed themselves into a “Temperance Dramatic Club,” and will present the drama “Fruits of the Wine Cup,” to the people of Winfield on Thursday evening, December 7th. The club is composed of excellent amateur talent.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
Miss Jennie Hane, Mrs. Jewell, and Messrs. Buckman and Snow, Winfield’s best musical quartette, with Miss McCoy as instrumentalist, have kindly volunteered to add to the attractions of the temperance entertainment Friday evening by a thirty minute concert preceding the drama which is to be presented by the Temperance Dramatic Club. The quartette has been practicing a number of pieces especially for the occasion. Let all turn out and enjoy the best entertainment of the season.
Winfield Courier, December 7, 1882.
The entertainment to have been given this (Thursday) evening by the Temperance Dramatic Club of this city, has been postponed to Friday evening, on account of the Presbyterian social and Musical Union, which both hold tonight. There is nothing to interfere Friday evening with their having a large attendance. “Fruits of the Wine Cup” is one of the best temperance dramas published, and will be presented by excellent amateur talent. The Winfield Orchestra will furnish the music.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1882.
The Temperance Dramatic Club desire us to extend their sincere thanks to the members of the Presbyterian Choir for the able assistance rendered them at their entertainment Friday evening.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1882.
The entertainment by the Temperance Dramatic Club Friday evening was a splendid amateur entertainment, and was tolerably well attended. The minstrel show and Presbyterian social the evening before somewhat affected the attendance. The concert by the Presbyterian Choir preceding the drama was very entertaining, and combined with Prof. Crippen’s Orchestra, made the musical part of the program most excellent. “Fruits of the Wine Cup” is a good temperance drama, and every character was represented in a way that was very commendable and earned the hearty applause of the audience. . . . We understand that they will present another play about the first of February. . . . The club is composed of young ladies and gentlemen of the Good Templar Lodge of this city.
Winfield Glee Club.
Winfield Courier, October 2, 1874.
Programme of the Literary and Musical Entertainment to be given at the Courthouse in Winfield, in connection with the Teacher’s Institute, for the benefit of the Public School Organ fund, on Wednesday evening, October 7th, 1874.
Prof. E. J. Hoyt, leader, orchestra; Glee club; poem by W. W. Walton, essay by Miss Melville of the Emporia State Normal School, son by Mrs. Russell of Wichita and Prof. E. W. Hulse, essay by Miss Jennie Greenlee, duet and chorus by Mrs. Kelly and Mrs. T. A. Wilkinson, instrumental music by Miss Ora Lowry and T. A. Wilkinson.
Winfield Courier, December 24, 1874.
The Winfield Grange held an open session last Monday night, but owing to the inclemency of the weather was not so well attended as it otherwise would have been. We were somewhat surprised that there were so few of the citizens of Winfield out to witness the delightful exercises of the occasion. The house was called to order by A. T. Stewart, the worthy master, who stated the object of the open session. Prayer was offered by the Chaplain, R. H. Tucker. An essay on “Fruit Growing in Kansas,” was read by N. C. McCulloch. A paper by Mrs. Wilkinson was then read; next an essay on the private debt of Cowley County, by Mr. Wilkinson, after which a short recess was in order. After recess a lecture was read by J. B. Evans of Vernon, after which several who did not belong to the grange were called out among whom was Col. E. C. Manning, who made a few remarks as to his preconceived notions of the grange and how he obtained them. Remarks were also made by A. S. Williams on the duty of the grange. Where there is so much to commend, we dare not make any distinction. All did well. The performance was interspersed with music both vocal and instrumental by the Winfield Glee Club, led by Prof. Wilkinson. Everybody, so far as we know, was well pleased with the whole affair.
Winfield Courier, September 25, 1884.
A very interesting feature of the meeting of the Blaine and Logan Club Monday evening was the Winfield Glee Club, composed of Messrs. Buckman, Blair, Snow, and Shaw. The Campaign songs brought down the house. The Glee Club will be an interesting feature of our great political rally of October 13th, when Hons. Ingalls, Martin, and Perkins will address the people of Cowley, at Winfield.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
A small audience greeted the Sons of Veterans at Manning’s Opera House Tuesday eve. The Winfield Glee Club, consisting of Messrs. Buckman, Slack, Holliday, Guy, Snow, and Forsythe, captivated the audience with their best songs, accompanied by A. Olmstead on the piano, who added much to the occasion by his excellent instrumental pieces. Little Maud gave several recitations in her cute and pleasing way. Sargent Colling and squad in their silent drill showed they were masters of the art. Mrs. Flo. Williams recited “Flash,” which was highly appreciated by all. The “Little Four” proved a big four, with Prof. Le Page at the piano, Harry Holbrook and Frank Conrad with their horns, and Jack Beck with his bones made novel and pleasing music. The tableau, “Crown Won and Crown in Prospect, participated in by Miss Maud Pickens, Matt Connor, and Jack Beck, was excellent. The Sons of Veterans should have had a larger house. This camp has been built up through the exertions of Capt. Pridgeon and several other zealous workers and needs encouragement by our people.
Cowley County Glee Club.
Winfield Courier, October 16, 1884.
Monday was a day which will be long remembered in the political history of Cowley. The morning opened with a drizzling rain, but by ten o’clock Old Sol smiled serenely down, drying things off, and leaving a pure, balmy atmosphere. By noon our streets were alive with people, all with joyous step, beaming eyes, and eager words, exhibiting the greatest enthusiasm for the Republican County, State, and National tickets. All day the crowd was occasionally augmented by a newly arrived delegation from some surrounding city or town and by night all was crowd and jam. Many of our business houses were gaily festooned with red, white, and blue bunting and the National flag appeared in all quarters, in honor of that party which made a glorious record on many a bloody field during the dark days from 1860 to 1864; in honor of that party which needs not to apologize for the past, to blush for its present, or to shrink in dread from its future. The crowd seemed animated, jolly, and patient, yet intensely concerned in the great interests and issues at sake, and all eagerly manifested their loyalty and devotion to the great and grand party of Lincoln, Garfield, Sumner, Grant, Sherman, Blaine, and Logan. Uniformed Blaine and Logan clubs were present from Arkansas City, Burden, New Salem, Wellington, and other surrounding towns while the Wellington Cornet Band joined with our Courier Cornet and Juvenile Bands in furnishing splendid entertainment for the vast crowd. The bands were untiring and received many praises from all. But especially notable were the campaign songs of the Cowley County Glee Club, Frank Blair, leader, and Messrs. Buckman, Roberts, Snow, and Shaw, members, with Prof. Stimson, organist. Their many renditions at the Opera House in the afternoon and evening were received with hilarious applause and won them fame, as was evidenced by the numerous invitations they received to attend rallies at different places. They made a name which would make the famous Topeka Modock Club sick with envy.
The Blaine and Logan clubs, headed by the band, and toned up by a club of uniformed cavalrymen, marched to the Santa Fe train at 11 a.m., and met the lions of the day, Senator J. J. Ingalls, Hon. John A. Martin, Hon. B. W. Perkins, and Dr. Philip Krohn, escorting them to the Brettun House, where they were entertained. At two o’clock the same procession escorted the speakers to the Opera House, where, after some stirring songs from the Glee Club, Senator W. P. Hackney introduced Hon. Jno. A. Martin, the next Governor of Kansas, who came forward amid the wildest cheering and delivered a telling address. Those few who had been in doubt as to Mr. Martin’s standing on any issue were thoroughly convinced by his direct, open, and unmistakable declaration of principles. He arraigned the Democratic party for its many disgraceful acts from its inception, and especially its record of 1856 to 1860 in attempting by force, fraud, fire, and sword to plant slavery upon the fair plains of Kansas; for its attempts to kill liberty and make American slavery National; for its shot-gun and tissue ballot frauds by which it has kept the South solid; and for its general rottenness. Touching state issues he was very outspoken. He frankly accepted the legally rendered decision of the people on the prohibition question and was squarely in favor of the law adopted by the legislature to sustain it; he acknowledged the right of the majority to rule in this as well as in all other legislative questions; that the constitution and laws touching prohibition had been sustained in all points, by the Supreme Court, and that if elected governor of this great State he would not perjure himself by seeking to nullify these or any other parts of the constitution and laws of the state, or by any action seek to bring them into disfavor or contempt. He would deem it an insult to his audience or the voters of Kansas to even think that they desired him to do so.
Senator John J. Ingalls was then introduced, not to make a set speech, for he was on the evening program, but merely to appear on behalf of his old friend, Col. Martin. His endorsement of Mr. Martin was brief and bristling and such as did honor, not only to the candidate for governor, but to himself. This brief introduction was an index to the magnificent treat in waiting for the crowd in the evening.
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1884.
The Cowley County Glee Club is spreading its music all over the county. No political meeting will dispense with their soul-stirring campaign songs; the boys are on the “go.”
Winfield Courier, November 6, 1884.
CITY AND COUNTY ELECTION NOTES. [SKIPPED MOST OF THE HEADERS.]
The COURIER office was jammed with eager faces at an early hour Tuesday evening to catch the first bulletins that came in. Anxiety, deep and searching, was depicted in every visage. The first dispatches were meager, but along toward midnight the news began to come from all quarters, fluctuating in the interests of both parties. The crowd overwhelmed all bulletin board space and the Opera House was secured. About this time dispatches giving New York, Indiana, and other strongholds to the Democrats began to come in. These engulfed the Democrats in wildest hilarity. Democratic throats that hadn’t yelled for twenty years were seen to oil up and fairly paralyze the air with hurrahs. The Republicans were feeling a little blue, which feeling was borne out by the dispatches until yesterday afternoon, when the tables turned and Republicans began to yell. The COURIER office was densely packed in the evening, and every dispatch as it noted increased Republican gains everywhere, received with triumphant shouts. When New York was conceded, enthusiasm knew no bounds. Men marched by hundreds up and down Main Street fairly renting the air with hurrahs. Headed by the Juvenile Band, they paraded the streets until a late hour. When the crowd left the COURIER Sanctum at one o’clock, it was to sleep in sweet consciousness of a grand Republican victory—in the sweet assurance of prosperous times and happy people for another four years.
The last Republican meeting of the Campaign at the Opera House Monday night was an enthusiastic and harmonious one: a true precursor to the grand victory in waiting. Words are inadequate to express the effect of the beautiful and appropriate songs of the Glee Club. Mr. Blair, the leader, had transposed songs to fit each local candidate and their reception was telling and hilarious. Capt. W. E. Tansey, Senator W. P. Hackney, Judge T. H. Soward, A. H. Limerick, and Ed. P. Greer gave addresses. Before the meeting adjourned, Senator Hackney stepped forward and said that he had marched on the field with the colored man and he would also like to have one speak on the rostrum with him; and he moved that Mr. John Nichols express his opinions to the audience. John made a speech which would honor any man who had come up under similar circumstances and showed the loyalty that flowed in his veins for the Grand Old Party that gave his race the liberty and citizenship that would allow them to voice their sentiments anywhere in the north. He heaped just censure on the spirit that suborned the darky in the South.
Gov. Glick in his speech at Arkansas City last Friday night paid a very uncomplimentary personal tribute to Rev. Kelly of this city, whereupon the citizens of the Terminus rented the Opera House there, telephoned Mr. Kelly to come down Monday evening and paralyze Glick’s abusive argument. The Rev. went down, and threw shot and shell into the camp of the enemy for two hours in a way that made the boldest of them wince. It was a powerful speech, and Tuesday’s 161 majority for Martin in that place voiced its results and the staunch sentiments of that people. Rev. Kelly has no use for a religion that can’t enter into politics and everyday life and no use for that political party that can’t stand a little religion; convictions which are appreciated by all loyal and noble-thinking people.
Our more enterprising Democrats did all in their power to receive Governor Glick last Thursday in a manner indicating a warm place for him in the hearts of Cowley people. He was driven about in a fine landau drawn by four brightly caparisoned snow white steeds, jockeyed by liveried men, with all the apparent pride and pomp of Old England. Through courtesy to the Governor of the Great State of Kansas, Republicans swelled the crowd to respectable proportions. Merely as a gubernatorial candidate he would have made not even a small riffle among the loyal people of Cowley—a fact plainly exhibited through Tuesday’s ballot.
The colored voters of Winfield showed their loyalty to the Grand Old Party which gave them citizenship by marching in a body of thirty, Tuesday, and casting their straight ticket, amid shouts of approval. A more enterprising and loyal lot of colored men can’t be found than those in Winfield.
On Wednesday while the bulletins favorable to Sheriff Cleveland were coming in, Ben Cox was strutting the streets with a victorious little rooster perched on his Cleveland hat. He appeared on the street Thursday morning without the rooster and with his white plug encircled with crape.
Spencer Miner says he bet his wife that West Virginia would go Republican and he saved his wife and got Virginia. “We turned the rebels out,” is the way he puts it. He’s wild with enthusiasm, especially over the result in his native State.
The antiquated Democracy of Cowley could hardly hobble up to the polls Tuesday, and when it did get there, the dose was too much for its soured condition. Every Republican candidate ran head of the ticket.
Over a thousand majority is estimated for Martin in Cowley and the Plumed Knight will get about fourteen hundred. Nearly every county Republican candidate got there with a thousand majority and upwards.
Henry E. Asp beat the record of Maude S. His rousing majority is a compliment worthy the pride of any ambitious young man. It is a splendid recognition of his superior energy and ability.
Liquid enthusiasm seems to have vanished with Glick’s prospects. Very few intoxicated men have been seen in this city during all this intense excitement.
The visages of J. B. Lynn, Ben Cox, and Sam Gilbert are perfect pictures of despair: at least they were the last seen of them early yesterday evening.
O, where! O, where! is G. Washington Glick and his red-nosed followers? In their caves of gloom never to come forth triumphantly again.
Judge Torrance and Prof. Limerick, with no opposition, captured almost the entire vote of the county—a meritable compliment indeed.
L. P. King got there, Eli, for the legislature in the 67th district, with a good majority.
Poor, honest O’Hare! His only consolation is in having at least kept in sight of Sheriff Cleveland, in Cowley.
Glick and whiskey downed and Martin and prohibition enthroned. “Ad astra per aspera.”
Rewards are now being freely offered for the discovery of a Democrat.
“God reigns and the Government at Washington still lives.”
[Name Changed Back. Winfield Glee Club.]
Program of Farmers’ Institute, to be Held at Opera House,
Winfield, Kansas, Thursday and Friday, January 29 and 30.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 29, 1885.
The exercises will be interspersed with music by the Winfield Glee Club. Farmers, attend the Institute, and take part in the discussion of the above papers.
UNIQUE CLUBS.
Bazique Club.
Winfield Courier, June 17, 1875.
John D. Pryor is chaplain of the “Bazique Club.”
Winfield Courier, June 17, 1875.
The “Bazique Club” gave an ice-cream and strawberry supper at Hill’s Saturday night, in honor of the return to town of two of their members. It was a n(ice) affair.
Winfield Courier, July 22, 1875.
Attention, Sir Knights!
There will be a meeting of the “Bazique Club” at the Bachelor rooms over Read’s bank on Friday evening next, for the purpose of electing officers for the ensuing year and transacting such other business as may properly come before them. Sir Knights will govern themselves accordingly.
By order of the GRAND KHEDIVE.
Winfield Courier, August 5, 1875.
Frank Gallotti, the GRAND KHEDIVE of the “Bazique Club,” gave a royal supper at the St. Nicholas last Friday night to its members, it being the anniversary of his birthday.
Winfield Courier, May 25, 1876.
OWEN F. BOYLE (“Tony”) came in on the stage, from the north, this week. Many clubs stood ready to welcome him, particularly the Bazique club. Tony looks well. He ain’t married yet.
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1876.
The Winfield Bazique club is scarcely able to raise a quorum. Simpson, Boyle, and Holloway, “the three graces,” left us, and now we have to chronicle the departure of another important officer, whose name entitled him to all the privileges of a Saint.
Ikie Bordie Club.
Winfield Courier, July 22, 1875.
“Ikie Bordie,” is the name of the new club organized by the young ladies of town in opposition to the young men’s “Bazique Club.” We learn they have five cents in the treasury and are now trying to “strike a dividend.” Don’t undertake the solution of that problem, girls. Buy chewing gum with it and then dividend that.
Belles of the Kitchen Club.
Winfield Courier, June 28, 1877.
As usual, on last Tuesday evening the Belles of the Kitchen met at the residence of Dr. Black. After being in attendance about an hour and attending to the usual routine of business, the members proceeded to have a general good time. The room which they occupied being small, their hostess suggested opening the folding doors, which would give them free access to two rooms.
The doors were immediately thrown open, and the Belles were surprised, startled, almost frightened upon beholding, seated upon chairs and sofas and standing in the corners, about a dozen young men, who had been invited the day previous, by Miss Emma Saint, one of the members of the club, for the purpose of converting into a social the society meeting, of which the constitution and by-laws altogether exclude the presence of young gentlemen. The ladies soon became reconciled however, and a general good time ensued. At half past nine o’clock refreshments were passed, which consisted of ice cream, lemonade, cakes, and candies in abundance. After partaking freely of the refreshments and another hour spent in enjoyment, the party dispersed. Though it was a willful violation of the constitution and by-laws of the B. O. T. K. club, each and every lady was escorted to their homes by a young gentleman.
Pickwick Club.
Winfield Courier, January 8, 1880.
The liveliest crowd we encountered during the rounds was the “Pickwick Club.” Their immense pasteboard cards, embellished with “original photographs” of the members, with the inimitable Nat. Snyder as “Mr. Pickwick,” was the talk of all we met. Taken altogether, this was the biggest day, socially, Winfield has ever seen. It may be said, greatly to the credit of the ladies receiving, that no wines were served, and that no disturbances occurred to mar the pleasures of the day.
Anti-Hash Club.
Winfield Courier, January 3, 1884.
An anti-hash club has been formed by certain young men in this city. One of their preambles recites that hash is a concoction of the devil, a foe to humanity, and a fit subject for prohibitive legislation. The next thing in order will be the organization of a “Woman’s Anti-hash Association.” That ought to paralyze the hash power.
Arion Club.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The Select Knights of A. O. U. W. and the Knights of Pythias of this city have prepared an entertainment for tonight (Thursday) at the Opera House, which will be unique, attractive, and amusing. These orders will appear in their new and brilliant uniforms and publicly install the officers of Cowley Legion. They will execute on the floor of the hall some fine movements, making a beautiful display. Our Arion club will furnish music. But the chief feature of the evening will be the initiation of a candidate into a secret order, with costumes, paraphernalia, and ceremonies gotten up regardless of expenses. Ladies can now have their curiosity satisfied as to what takes place in lodge meetings. (See hand bills.)
Juvenile Temperance Club.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1884.
It is desired that all the children of the City meet at the Presbyterian Church Friday afternoon to form a Juvenile Temperance Club. The club will be organized under supervision of Mrs. E. D. Garlick and others. This is a move which will undoubtedly result in much good and should receive the heartiest encouragement.
Pleasure Seeking Club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
The “P. S. C. Club,” which, peeled of Latin, means “Pleasure Seeking Club,” met Friday eve in the roomy house of Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Johnston, the guest of Master Wallie Johnston. This Club is composed of young masters and misses of that rollicking age that gets all the fun out of anything they tackle. The party last night, a dozen or more couples, was one of the jolliest, exhausting various games and amusements.
Note: The most important clubs started in Winfield were the Dancing Clubs.
DANCING CLUBS.
Winfield Dancing Club.
Winfield Courier, November 27, 1873.
The members of the Winfield Dancing Club are hereby notified that a meeting will be held at Webb & Bigger’s law office tomorrow (Friday) evening. All the members are earnestly requested to be present. By order of the committee.
Evening Star Club.
Winfield Courier, October 19, 1876.
To Mr. Gallotti we are indebted for the “full particulars” of the organization of the “Evening Star Club,” which may be found in another column.
Winfield Courier, October 19, 1876.
E. S. C.,
Which means “Evening Star Club.”
The above named social organization is just making its debut in Winfield’s fashionable “upper-ten” society. The need of a similar association has long been felt in this community. “Hoodlum dances” have become the rule instead of the exception and are growing very monotonous. Social lines are now to be drawn, and a new order of things will soon take the place of the old breeches-in-boots regime. “Hoe-downs” and their concomitant evils will pass into oblivion, and the big nosed “caller” who used to sing out, as he buckled on to the red-haired girl himself, “Grab pardners for a quadrille!” will be a thing of the past. Kid gloves and waxed moustaches are not to take the place of all these old frontier familiarities, but a jolly, fun loving, respectable class of our citizens who have been reared in the higher walks of life, resume their position in the social scale, and propose to conduct these entertainments in a manner that will reflect credit upon the management and the city at large. The world moves and we must keep pace with the hour, socially, morally, and otherwise.
The charter members, so to speak, of the Club are Messrs. Frank Gallotti, Esq. Boyer, E. W. Holloway, T. K. Johnston, R. L. Walker, J. B. Lynn, W. P. Hackney, C. C. Black, J. O. Houx, and A. E. Baird, as they were its organizers. At their meeting on the 17th instant, the following constitution was read and adopted.
Constitution of the Evening Star Club
of the City of Winfield.
Art. 1. An association is constituted in the City of Winfield, Kansas, under the name of “The Evening Star Club.”
Art. 2. The object of the Club is to give a series of Social Dances, and other entertainments as may be decided by the same.
Art. 3. The Club will have a regular meeting every fortnight, and a special meeting whenever deemed necessary by a majority of the board of trustees.
Art. 4. All business of the Club must be transacted at the regular meetings.
Art. 5. The administration of this Club will be conducted by a board of trustees, composed of a president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and three directors, to be elected by its members at a regular meeting.
Art. 6. A person wishing to become a member of this club must have his or her name proposed by one of the members at a regular meeting.
Art. 7. Every petitioner for membership shall be balloted for at a regular meeting.
Art. 8. To become a member of this Club, the petitioner must receive the unanimous vote of the members present at the balloting, must sign the constitution, and pay an admission fee of Two dollars, and a monthly fee in advance of one dollar.
Art. 9. A member in arrear of one month fee will have no voice in the regular or special meetings, and if in arrear of two month’s fees, will lose his membership.
Art. 10. The duties of the officers of this Club, and the order of business to be transacted by the same, shall be regulated by bylaws drawn as soon as the club is constituted.
Art. 11. None but the members of the club will be admitted at the regular Dances given by the same unless non-resident.
Art. 12. A non-resident shall be admitted at the dances of this club only when supplied with an invitation.
Art. 13. All invitations must be signed by the board of Trustees.
Art. 14. This Club will be considered constituted when the constitution is signed by ten persons who will be charter members.
The election of officers following, W. P. Hackney was chosen president; J. B. Lynn vice president; A. E. Baird, treasurer; J. O. Houx, secretary, and T. K. Johnston, C. C. Black, and
F. Gallotti as directors.
Frank Gallotti was appointed a committee of one on bylaws. Balloting was then had on the following candidates, resulting in their election to full membership: J. Wade McDonald, James Hill, Bert Crapster, Wilbur Dever, O. M. Seward, Fred Hunt, and Chas. Harter. The Club met last evening but we have not learned what additional business it transacted. We wish the association unlimited success, in its hitherto unoccupied field.
Young Men’s Social Club.
Winfield Courier, December 11, 1879.
Last Thursday evening a number of the young gentlemen of our city met at the Opera House, and organized a social dancing club. They also secured the services of a teacher during the winter.
Winfield Courier, February 5, 1880.
The dress ball given by the social club last week was one of the finest affairs ever held in Winfield. The costumes of the ladies were simply superb, and the gentlemen alone resplendent in white vests, white neck-ties, and white kid gloves.
Winfield Courier, March 4, 1880.
The Winfield Social Club had a business meeting Tuesday evening, when it was decided to have a grand calico ball on the evening of the 18th of this month.
Winfield Courier, March 11, 1880.
The invitations for the calico ball are out and display considerable ingenuity. They are printed on calico, and bear the inscription, “No calico dress—no dance.” The parties given by the social club are always enjoyable affairs and the calico ball promises to be one of their best.
Winfield Courier, April 15, 1880.
The social club has “quit” for the summer. One of the last acts was to levy an assessment of $1 on each member with which to raise the indebtedness.
Winfield Courier, August 19, 1880.
DIED: Of brain fever in this city on Friday evening, August 13th, Mr. Robert Beeny, aged 19. Mr. Beeny had so recently been on our streets, apparently well, that the news of his demise was startling and almost incredible. He was a native of Syracuse, New York, and came here with his father’s family about two years ago, where he has made a great many friends. The funeral took place on Saturday, and was largely attended. The members of the Young Men’s social club, of which he was a member, held a special meeting and passed resolutions relative to his death, signed by D. L. Kretsinger, President; Fred C. Hunt, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, October 28, 1880.
The Young Men’s Social Club will give a ball at the Opera House, Friday evening, Nov. 5. Their parties were the social features last winter, and we are glad to see the interest in the club surviving.
Winfield Courier, November 11, 1880.
The Young Men’s Social club opened the season last Friday evening with a ball, which is said to have been a complete success.
Winfield Courier, November 11, 1880.
The Young Men’s Social Club have elected D. L. Kretsinger president; Fred Hunt vice President; H. Bahntge secretary; W. A. Smith treasurer. Members elected by ballot and admitted on payment of $3, initiation fee. Monthly dues $1. First meeting this evening. Prof. Fero is engaged as instructor.
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1881.
The Social Club gave a banquet to a select party at the Williams House last week. Each guest received a very polite invitation from the committee of arrangements, which was of course eagerly accepted, as it was understood that the party was to be very select and only to consist of fifteen couples. The supper was elegant, the party seemed in the best of spirits, and everything went “merry as a marriage bell” until the time for departing came. It was then discovered that that supper cost thirty dollars and that there were just fifteen fellows to settle the bill. Our informant did not state whether the fifteen were exclusive of the committee of arrangements or not. However, it was one of the pleasantest affairs of the holidays.
Winfield Courier, May 5, 1881.
The calico ball, the last of the season by the social club, was a success. The ladies looked exceedingly fresh and handsome in simple calico and gingham. The improvement over preceding “full dress” balls was so marked that we wonder why calico balls are not the rule rather than the exception.
Winfield Courier, December 22, 1881.
Invitations are out for a grand “Masque Ball” by the Young Men’s Social Club at the Opera House, December 30th.
Winfield Courier, December 21, 1882.
Next week will be a gala time for masquerades. The masquerade skate at the rink next Tuesday evening is attracting considerable attention, while the masquerade ball by the Young Men’s Social Club on the evening of the 28th will be the crowning social feature of the season. Carriages will be furnished for the ladies who attend the masquerade at the rink on the evening of the 26th, by leaving orders at the rink. Each masker must give his or her name and the character they represent before entering the hall. A small admission fee will be charged spectators.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1883.
The Masquerade.
The Young Men’s Social Club made a great success of their Masquerade Ball given on the 28th. There was a large attendance and the maskers were better disguised than usual. Those who created the most curiosity as to their identity were Miss Sadie French, the “Little Girl;” Miss Anna Scothorn, “The Lady Guerilla;” Mr. Frank Barclay, the “Carpet Bagger.” We were not enabled to get a list of the maskers and will not attempt to give them. The success of the party was due to the management of the floor by Prof. Mahler and the untiring energy of Mr. Chas. Bahntge, Mr. Lovell Webb and Mr. Chas. Fuller, in making the arrangements for it. In appreciation of Prof. Mahler’s kindness, since he charged nothing for his services, the young gentlemen presented him with $25.00, which was highly appreciated. The dancing class are loud in their praises of Prof. Mahler.
Winfield Courier, January 18, 1883.
The Young Men’s Social Club will wind up the season Friday evening with a dress ball. Everything has been done to make the party as enjoyable as any they have ever given.
Winfield Courier, January 25, 1883.
About twenty couples attended the ball at the Opera House Friday evening, by the Young Men’s Social Club, notwithstanding the fact that the mercury was loafing around fourteen degrees below zero. Prof. Mahler superintended the floor, the music was splendid, and all had a very enjoyable time.
Happy Hour Club.
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1883.
About twenty-five of the young men of our city met on Wednesday evening of last week at the office of A. H. Doane & Co., and formed “The Happy Hour Club,” for the enjoyment of the terpsichorean art semi-monthly during the winter. The club will have its first hop on Thursday evening, Nov. 9th.
[Name Changed to “Pleasant Hour Club.]
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1883.
The “Pleasant Hour Club” gives the first social “hop” of the season at the Opera House this Thursday evening, commencing at 8 o’clock sharp and closing at 12.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1883.
The bi-weekly hop of the Pleasant Hour Club occurs at the Opera House this Thursday evening.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1883.
The Pleasant Hour Club has decided to give a grand masquerade ball on January 10th.
Winfield Courier, December 6, 1883.
The Pleasant Hour Club will have another of the social hops Thursday evening. The dancing is from eight to twelve, in the Opera House.
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1883.
The Pleasant Hour club will give a grand masquerade ball at the Opera House on the evening of the 30th of January. A costumer of Kansas City will be here to fit the dancers out. It is expected to make this the crowning event of the season.
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1884.
The Masquerade.
The members of the Pleasant Hour Club have made the winter thus far very pleasant in a social way. Their hops have been well attended, and the utmost good feeling and harmony has prevailed. Their masquerade ball last Thursday evening was the happiest hit of the season. The floor was crowded with maskers and the raised platforms filled with spectators. At nine o’clock the “grand march” was called, and the mixture of grotesque, historical, mythological, and fairy figures was most attractive and amusing. Then, when the quadrilles were called, the effect of the clown dancing with a grave and sedate nun, and Romeo swinging a pop-corn girl, was, as one of the ladies expressed it, “just too cute.”
The following is the list of names of those in masque, together with a brief description of costume or character represented.
LADIES.
Mrs. Rembaugh, Folly.
Miss Lizzie Wallis, Frost.
Mrs. J. L. Horning, Nun.
Mrs. D. Rodocker, Jockey.
Miss Julia Smith, America.
Mrs. James Vance, Gipsy.
Miss Sadie French, Hornet.
Miss Taylor, fancy costume.
Miss Beeny, Swiss Peasant.
Mrs. Albro, Italian Peasant.
Miss Dawson, Peasant Girl.
Mrs. A. H. Doane, Old Woman.
Miss Josie Pixley, Spanish Girl.
Mrs. I. W. Randall, fancy dress.
Miss Whitney, Mother Hubbard.
Miss Mollie Harris, Pop-corn Girl.
Miss Iowa Roberts, Water Nymph.
Miss Ida Bard, German Flower Girl.
Mrs. Kate Wilson, Flora McFilmsy.
Miss Jennie Hane, Red Riding Hood.
Mrs. A. A. Jackson, Mother Hubbard.
Mrs. Cal. Ferguson, Sunflower costume.
Miss Carrie Anderson, Mother Hubbard.
Miss Margie Wallis, pretty checker suit.
Mrs. Hackney, handsome fancy costume.
Miss Mattie West, Country school Ma’am.
Mrs. Emerson, Daughter of the Regiment.
Miss Gertrude McMullen, Tambourine Girl.
Miss Jennie Lowry, Lady of the 16th Century.
Mrs. Dave Harter, Daughter of the Regiment.
Miss Jessie Millington, bewitching Mother Hubbard.
Mrs. Bahntge, in the guise of a Spanish Girl, defied detection.
Mrs. J. G. Craft wore a very tasty costume made up of copies of the Telegram.
GENTLEMEN.
Jos. O’Hare, Dude.
F. Barron, Clown.
E. R. Greer, Tramp.
Jas. Lorton, Clown.
Ad. Powers, Snow.
Ad. Brown, Sailor.
F. F. Leland, Dude.
A. E. Baird, Priest.
L. Tomlin, Convict.
Will Hudson, Dunce.
M. J. O’Meara, Turk.
Ezra Nixon, Brigand.
Charley Fuller, Romeo.
J. Finkleberg, Clown.
A. H. Doane, Convict.
Will J. Wilson, Convict.
Lovell H. Webb, Falstaff.
Will McClellan, Jockey.
A. A. Jackson, Yankee.
W. D. Dawson, Polander.
C. C. Roberts, Gentleman.
J. M. Lambert, Irishman.
Joseph B. Clark, Cowboy.
Fritz Sherman, face mask.
Eugene Wallis, Crown Prince.
Chas. Hodges, School Teacher.
Dave Harter, Mephistopheles.
Ed. McMullen, Dutchman.
C. C. Harris, Stars and Stripes.
J. G. Craft, Prince Imperial.
Frank Robinson, face mask.
Frank Weaverling, face mask.
M. Ewart, Prince of Wales.
W. B. Anderson, Indian Chief.
I. W. Randall, Duke of Gloucester.
George Hendrick, Duke of Richmond.
W. E. Chambers, The Irish Immigrant.
J. W. Padgett, Duke of Wellington.
Robert Hudson, Jr., Russian Prince.
Lou Zenor, a very Dutchy Dutchman.
Frank H. Greer, Father Hubbard, “Dad of them all.”
W. B. Pixley was most effectually disguised as a calf.
D. W. Williams, a cross between a prize fighter and a preacher.
Geo. W. Miller, as Old Father Hubbard, had a most ridiculous make-up.
J. B. Lynn represented the fallacy of a protective tariff, and made a good hit.
The big hit of the evening, and which seemed to strike the spectators about right, was the appearance of the Narrow Gauge gang of eight railroad laborers, with clay pipes, each with a “spade” in hand, and having across his back a banner bearing the words, “M. L.’s Narrow Gauge.” In this party were Tom, John, and Ed McGuire, Geo. Hudson, J. R. and Ed. Bourdette, and John Beck.
Winfield Courier, January 17, 1884.
The Pleasant Hour club has postponed its regular dance this week to Thursday evening of next week, when all will have recovered sufficiently from the effects of the masquerade to turn out and have the usual good time.
Winfield Courier, February 7, 1884.
The Pleasant Hour Club will have another of their enjoyable parties Friday evening at the Opera House.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1884.
Mr. Al. Roberts has received a splendid Italian harp and is furnishing excellent music with it for the bi-weekly hops of the Pleasant Hour Club. With Frank McClain, of Cambridge, playing the cornet, Clarence Roberts the violin, and Al. the harp, the music for last Friday evening’s dance could not have been better, and with the splendid prompting of Mr. Chas. Gay, made the occasion very enjoyable. These hops are a great factor in the city’s social life, and are always well attended.
Winfield Courier, March 6, 1884.
The Pleasant Hour Club gives its regular semi-monthly hop on this Thursday evening.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 10, 1885.
Capt. Myers has received the lumber for the Opera House new floor and will put it down at once. The members of the Pleasant Hour Club can pick the splinters out of their feet and prepare for tripping the light fantastic on a beautiful, smooth floor.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.
PLEASANT HOUR CLUB HOP.
Christmas eve was the regular evening for the hop of the Pleasant Hour Club. There were nearly sixty couples present—a dress ball of no small dimensions. Many of the ladies were in elegant costume, as refined, handsome, and graceful a gathering of society people as cities twice our size can turn out. The festive Christmas season gave renewed zest. Genuine enjoyment was rampant and all pronounced it the most pleasurable hop of the winter, so far. It was a splendid index to the kind of a dress ball, regular swell, Winfield could get up. A great many strangers were noticeable, Christmas eve, who were charmed with the entertainment afforded them.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 7, 1886.
The Pleasant Hour Club met last evening and arranged for its fifth annual Bal Masque, at the Opera House on Thursday evening, the 19th inst. Committees were appointed as follows: On invitation, George T. Schuler, Addison Brown, and Frank H. Greer; On floor, J. L. Horning, D. L. Kretsinger, and J. L. M. Hill; On reception, Hon. W. P. Hackney and wife, Hon. C. C. Black and wife, Col. J. C. Fuller and wife, Senator J. C. Long and wife. With the great social activity that characterizes Winfield this winter, this ball will undoubtedly be one of the biggest successes the club has yet scored. Invitations will be issued to only the best people of this and surrounding cities. The indiscriminate scattering of invitations, as is to often the case in big balls of this kind, will be very carefully guarded against. The invitations will be out in a few days. The Club is determined to mark this occasion with eclat of the highest order.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 14, 1886.
A little frigidity in the atmosphere only adds vinegar to youth. The Pleasant Hour Club had the liveliest hop of the winter Friday evening. Without, it was stingingly cold, within the Opera House it was as warm and pleasant as a morning in May. Arthur Bangs, with his buses, gathered up the party, about twenty-five couples, in double-quick order, delivering them home with equal alacrity, in the “wee sma” hours. A livelier or more congenial party of young folks couldn’t possibly be found. They went in from the start for a good time and supreme jollity reigned throughout. A number of strangers, ladies and gentlemen, were out and were delighted with the geniality and comeliness of the city’s social circle as there represented.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 14, 1886.
The Pleasant Hour Club was headed off by the storm Thursday after all. The awful storm was too much for the busses. Of course, they weren’t brought out. No horse would face such a blizzard—nobody would want him to. The club will now wait for the masquerade, invitations for which will be out tomorrow.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
No lady need have the least delicacy in masking at the ball tomorrow evening. None but the best society people of this and surrounding cities have been issued invitations. There is not a name on the list of invited whose respectability is not known either by the committee on invitation or by some prominent member of the club. The club has guarded very carefully against the promiscuous attendance that is too apt to mar the pleasures of such an occasion. No one whose name is not on the list of invited can get into the hall, masked. The number of maskers, and the selectness, promises to far exceed any Bal Masque the Pleasant Hour Club has ever given.
THE BAL MASQUE.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The interest in the Bal Masque of the Pleasant Hour Club Thursday evening is warming up. Arkansas City, Burden, and other towns, a number of whose best citizens were invited, send word that they will be on hand with good delegations. And all of Winfield’s society people, married and single, will be there. The gentlemen who intend to mask will bear in mind that they must procure tickets of admission from the secretary at Brown & Son’s drug store, one for yourself and one for your lady, when your order for a carriage for your lady will be taken, and the carriage sent for her at the hour you name. No one can procure tickets whose name is not on the list of invited. There can be no misrepresentation of sex, and all maskers must raise their masks to a committee and leave with the committee a card, with your name and character represented. The Roberts Orchestra is preparing a special program of superb music. The invitation to spectators is general.
A GRAND SOCIAL EVENT.
The Pleasant Hour Club Scores Another Big Success in Its Annual
Bal Masque at the Opera House Last Night.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
Never did Winfield have a more successful and thoroughly pleasurable social event than last Thursday night at the Opera House, the fifth annual Bal Masque of the Pleasant Hour Club. It was the talk of the town from the issuing of the invitations and fully met the fondest expectations. The enthusiasm of the city’s young society people has been warm all winter—keener than for years, which insures supreme enjoyment of their every social gathering. But of course this was the eclat affair, as to arrangements and anticipation. By 9 o’clock the maskers, under the expeditious carriage accommodation of Arthur Bangs, were about all present, and the hall represented a novel and romantically interesting scene. The devil and the heavenly angel, wings and all, pooled issues and consorted as though the millennium was indeed at hand. The peasant and the lord clasped arms and drowned all distinction, while Uncle Sam watched the antics of the clown, the Castle Garden twins, and pussy kids with a satisfaction banishing all weights of state. At a little past nine, the grand promenade was formed and then the fun for the large audience of spectators, as well as for the weird and ghostly maskers, began in earnest.
On with the dance, let joy be unconfined!
No sleep till morn when youth and pleasure meet,
To chase the going hours with flying feet.
With the superb music of the Roberts’ orchestra, the splendid prompting of Chas. Gay and J. L. M. Hill as chief floor manager, the dances went on with a smoothness admirable. In manipulating the floor Mr. Hill, agreeably assisted by A. H. Doane, was perfectly at home, with a genial promptness at once recognized. About 65 couples were in mask, just enough to nicely fill the floor, without the crowd and jam too apt to mar the pleasure of such an occasion. The number of really fine costumes, especially among the ladies, was unusual and the disguises were remarkably good. At 11 o’clock the jolly maskers were lined around the hall and the masks lifted, when the usual “Well, who on earth would have ever thought it!” “Why, I knew you as soon as you took off your mask!” “How completely you fooled us, and what a dumpling of a suit.” A thousand ludicrous surprises were vented, as the “great unknown” confronted each other.
THE REPRESENTATION.—THE LADIES.
Mrs. Senator Hackney, as “Airy Fairy Lillian,” was richly costumed and completely disguised.
Misses Nona Calhoun and Bert Morford, in their pink dominos and cute bonnets, were perfection twins, as to appearance, and fooled everybody.
Mrs. Frank W. Doane, in attractive colors and good disguise, was a splendid Spanish girl.
Miss Jennie Bangs was “Dolly Varden” to a T, with all her vivacious oddities of dress and action.
Mrs. C. L. Harter, Mrs. Ray Oliver, and Misses Lizzie and Margie Wallis concealed their identity as a lively quartette of black dominos, with church spire crowns. Nobody “caught on”—impossible with such a complete covering. Miss Lizzie also appeared as The Daughter of the Regiment, with a neat suit of stars and stripes.
Mrs. A. B. Taylor wore a very pretty costume, with bell trimming, and kept up a continual jingle.
Appropriate to the almanac, Mrs. Evelyn Judd cast the rays of the “full moon,” with identity unfathomable.
Mrs. A. C. Bangs dressed as a pretty waitress, and with ringing bell called the folks to “5 o’clock tea.”
Mrs. C. C. Black represented splendidly a peasant girl, and kept her identity from all.
Mrs. P. F. Wright appeared in a neat fancy costume.
Miss Emma Strong, in keeping with the elements, was dressed in snow and made a very frigid appearance—the opposite to the young lady herself.
Miss Nina Anderson was arrayed in The National Colors: a beautiful suit of red, white, and blue satin.
Mrs. J. C. Fuller was a French peasant girl, with the odd hat and costume complete, a good disguise.
Mrs. George C. Rembaugh was a Spanish girl, lively and graceful.
Miss Mattie T. Harrison, one of the most graceful dancers on the floor, was attired in a handsome fancy costume, black satin, lace-trimmed.
Miss Carrie B. Anderson was an Italian girl, with raven hair and varied colors, taking the character very nicely.
Miss Eva M. Dodds was happy, buoyant spring, with all its violets and daisies: a smile naturally taken.
Mrs. Perkins was attired in a fancy dress, rich and appropriate.
Mrs. D. Rodocker was a “fly brush,” with a rustle of paper strips of numerous colors.
Miss Sadie French, as the Gypsy, “Madame Zygii Zuigari,” was a thorough success, with a very pretty costume and raven hair.
Mrs. Will Whiting, a flower girl, was blithe and nicely costumed.
Mrs. C. S. Hewitt completely concealed her identity in a red domino.
Miss Ida Ritchie, the Quakeress, had all the peculiarities of dress and manner of that queerest of beings. She took the character splendidly.
Mrs. W. H. Albro wore a rich Oriental costume of red satin, lace trimmed, and beautifully made.
Miss Clara Brooks, as Topsy, was one of the liveliest characters on the floor, and puzzled all the boys.
Miss Nellie Cole, very appropriately represented as an angel, with an airy costume of beautifully figured Swiss, with the wings, crown and all: as pretty as a nymph.
Mrs. Dr. Emerson was attired in the peculiar Egyptian array, with silver bangles on pretty colored satin. She was taken for everybody else but herself.
Miss Kate B. Rodgers was a charming Scotch Lassie, with plaid colors and highland romance, and was well disguised.
Miss Mamie Baird was a representative of Ceres, the goddess of grain, and carried the character nicely.
Mrs. Ed. G. Cole was a rollicking peanut girl and bated all the boys with peanuts. Her suit was very pretty.
Mrs. B. H. Riddell was the center of attraction: Little Bo-Peep, with her short dress and shepherdess crook, and captivated all the gentlemen. Her costume was one of the very prettiest and her identity mum.
Miss May Hodges was an unique representation of a school girl, with her jump rope and roguish hat.
Mrs. I. W. Randall appeared in a handsome fancy costume and was well disguised.
Miss Bertha Barnes was a romantic representation of “Pocahontas,” in a lovely gold-colored satin dress with bead and arrow-head trimming and tall, feathered hat. It was a rich and pretty costume.
Mrs. H. H. Hosmer, as mamma’s little baby, was a very cute character, with her small stature and little lace bonnet and flowing gown.
Miss Grace Kincaid wore a handsomely made fancy costume, and being a visitor in the city, had no fear of detection.
Mrs. James Vance was a very fine simile of the daughter of the regiment, with a tasty costume of national colors.
Miss Fanny Saunders, as “Aurora,” was a pretty star, in Swiss array, and with her blond hair, confused everybody.
Miss Maggie Harper, in a beautiful black satin, lace trimmed costume, represented a Spanish girl very nicely.
Mrs. F. C. Hunt, the waiting maid, fooled everybody and was neatly costumed.
Miss Libbie Whitney, in a neat fancy costume, was among those whose disguises were most complete.
Mrs. W. R. Gray made an imposing Spanish girl, in a very pretty raven costume.
THE GENTS.
As an English Lord, Amos Snowhill was immense, with his rich “togging” and blonde wig.
Will A. Schuler, of Medicine Lodge, was a handsomely caparisoned cadet, just from West Point, all covered with the satin signs of relentless war.
Bret Crapster made a good sailor boy, but the tide was too high and swept away his mask early in the evening. As soon as it dropped, everybody knew him. He danced the evening through, all the same.
Captain Kidd, with his brace of wicked revolvers and bowies was there in all his glory, only to turn into mamma’s awkward, pug-nosed “kid,” “ma look at him style,” before the evening was half over. Sam Kleeman was the impersonator and did it well.
Will R. Gray was a tall success as a Highlander, but somehow a few “caught on.”
C. S. Hewitt was arrayed in a yellow domino, covering his identity entirely.
A. B. Taylor made a good looking Spaniard and had on a fine suit.
Frank Weaverling, little Frank, was an imposing Spanish Prince, and flew around among the Spanish girls at a lively rate.
A Snow Storm, the blizzard of the 7, was depicted by Frank N. Strong, who was the counterpart to his sister, Miss Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Snow Storm were an attractive couple.
Now we deliver the bakery. Old Father Time gets it. It was a tall clock, of antiquated design, and H. H. Hosmer was the “ticker” and winked at the girls through the key holes.
Willis A. Ritchie, Livey J. Buck, and Frank H. Greer were papa’s baby boys, with ludicrous make up and corporosity just alike, with whistle and rattle box accompaniment. Ritchie also appeared as the French Marquis; Buck as “Ingomar, the Barbarian,” and Greer as the “Bosting Dude.”
The Turkish Zouave was well taken by Moore Tanner, in regulation behavior.
Will McClellan was a sailor boy and got around over the terpsichorean ship in elegant shape.
Geo. W. Wright was a well-made up clown and got in the antics in proper shape.
The cutest characters among the gentlemen were the twin Dutchmen, fresh from Castle Garden, with their Dutchy mugs, and little pussy figures. The girls were completely gone on them from the start. They were a ludicrous looking pair, sure enough, Tom J. Eaton and Ed. J. McMullen. The disguise was perfect.
S. D. Harper, a Page, had one of the richest costumes, with curly blonde wig. Few caught on.
The K. P., with regulation uniform, was Eli Youngheim, whose mask “kerflumixed” and spoiled much of his fun.
Prince Ettriopia was finely represented by Phil Kleeman, in dazzling costume and wiry movement.
The occasion was jockeyed by W. D. Carey, whose cute cap and old-gold caparison caught all the girls. He was a very tony looking jockey.
E. R. Greer represented the Turk, on the spotted war path.
Uncle Sam is always around, taking in the actions of his numerous family and of course he was present on this occasion: tall hat and slim form, gray locks, and E Pluribus Unum pants and swallow-tailed coat. I. W. Randall took this character finely.
I. Martin was the king of the bat: the base-ball man, and got around lively.
The granger boy, with his gawky style, pig feet, and generally funny make-up, was well impersonated by F. W. Doane.
C. Whitington wore a fancy costume, with numerous highfalutin adornment, and had no trouble about concealing his identity.
Everett Schuler looked well as a Spanish gent and was taken for everybody. His suit was convenient and handsome.
J. F. Balliet was unique as Mikado, and like that opera, was all the rage. His suit was novel and pretty.
Hizoner, the Devil, a regular horny, red devil, was taken in all his hideousness by Frank F. Leland, and the folks associated as though his majesty was quite acceptable.
George H. Schuler was another devil, a black devil, with the usual pitchfork prongs, and with the red devil, came near ruling the roost. The influence of the angel on the black devil, however, was wonderfully taming.
Capt. Whiting was a tony jockey, wearing a rich satin cap and suit.
Harry Bahntge, as the Dutch clown, was awarded a share of the bakery. His rotund and symmetrical shape, pretty phiz, and general gait were very captivating.
At twelve o’clock an excellent supper was served by T. F. Axtell, for which the dancers were amply ready, and which was served in good style. Not till after two o’clock did the merry participants take the carriages for home, in the full realization of having spent one of the most enjoyable evenings of the city’s history. It was certainly a very satisfactory ball throughout, fully bearing out the splendid reputation of the Pleasant Hour Club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
Not a little of the marked success of the Pleasant Hour Bal Masque is due to the efficiency of the Club’s secretary, Addison Brown. Ad. is a rustler in any position.
[Both “Pleasant Hour Club” and “G. O. Club Mentioned.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 11, 1886.
The Pleasant Hour Club hop at the Opera House Friday evening was largely attended and supremely enjoyable. These club dances are a very bright feature of the city’s social life. They broaden acquaintances and are marked for their refinement, fashion, and grace. And the G. O. Club, managed by the gentle dames, is equally pleasurable and fills in the “off” week most acceptably. The city has never been as lively socially as this winter. Receptions, clubs, and various entertainments have been numerous and all marked by geniality, gay life, and good feeling in harmony with the general superiority of our society people. No city, even those twice our size, can turn out larger, more genuinely social or fashionable gatherings than Winfield.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 18, 1886.
The Pleasant Hour Club has its regular hop Friday evening, this week, giving away Thursday evening for the Troubadours.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 25, 1886.
Some fifty couples enjoyed the pleasure of the dance at the opera house last evening. The reporter dropped in for the first time since “The Pleasant Hour Club” organized these social hops, and was pleased to see that Winfield can boast of as high-toned and delightful a club as can be found anywhere. Everything showed that gallantry and high breeding which is natural to gentlemen and that grace and cultured manner which belong to the refined ladies. Of course, the music by Roberts’ Orchestra was grand, while the prompting by Chas. Gay was excellent.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 18, 1886.
The Pleasant Hour Club met Wednesday and decided to have two more regular hops and wind up the season with a big calico ball, on April 15th, giving three dances yet. It is the universal verdict of all that the club has never had as successful and thoroughly enjoyable parties throughout as this winter. And the club, in contemplating its success, doesn’t fail to recognize the even superior success of its very happy and effeminate alternate, the G. O. Club. Socially, as in everything else, Winfield is unexcelled.
SOCIAL WINFIELD.
The Pleasant Hour Club at the Opera House and the M. E. Social at the St. James.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 25, 1886.
The regular hop of the P. H. C., at the Opera House, Thursday, was thoroughly enjoyed by about forty couples. These parties are always marked by much pleasure and satisfaction. The approach of the summery season was very perceptible to the many dancers, who realized that Terpsichore must soon give way to the exhilarating picnic, with its chigger, mosquito, and thin lemonade accompaniments. The Club has but one more regular hop and will close the season the 15th of April with a calico ball that is looked to with much anticipation.
The St. James was filled to overflowing Thursday, and this means a big crowd. The house was thrown wide open to all and expressions of surprise were heard upon all sides as the guests strolled through the elegant suites or rooms. As is well known, this social was given by the Ladies Aid Society of the M. E. church, through the kindness and generosity of Mr. Weitzel. The house and supper were free to the Society, so all the expense they were too was for the ice cream. About $75 was netted, which will be used towards the erection of a parsonage. The supper was excellent, after which the guests made themselves at home. Some excellent music by Messrs. Buckman, Forsythe, Slack, and Brown and Mrs. Blackman and Mrs. Brown, assisted by Miss Maud Kelly on the piano, with fine violin music by O. F. Hopkins, made the occasion more pleasant. “Little Maud” also gave a couple of recitations in her inimitable manner. The crowd left about 10 p.m., feeling at though they had spent a very pleasant evening through the hospitality of the Ladies Aid Society, Landlord Weitzel and wife, and Clerk Millington and wife.
Winfield Social Club.
Winfield Courier, November 20, 1884.
The young men of the city met on Tuesday at the office of A. H. Doane & Co., and organized “The Winfield Social Club,” the object of which is to “trip the light fantastic,” bi-monthly. These social hops have been a society feature of the city for years back and a great source of true recreation. Frank Leland is president of the club; Lacy Tomlin, Secretary; and Charley Dever, Treasurer. The membership will be about thirty-five couples. The first hop will be given on Friday night, the 28th.
[Name Changed to “Young Men’s Social Club.]
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1884.
The Young Men’s Social Club gave its first hop on Friday evening last. Over thirty-five couples of the city’s elite were present and a most enjoyable time was had by all. One couldn’t look over that crowd without being imbued with the beauty and vivaciousness of our young ladies and the gallantry and good looks of our young men. No city in the West can excel Winfield society. The young ladies of other cities look tame indeed when compared to our pretty, winsome, and intelligent damsels. These social hops promise to be a most pleasant feature of the winter’s entertainment.
Winfield Courier, December 25, 1884.
The Young Men’s Social Club will hold its regular bi-weekly hop in the Opera House Friday evening. These hops are proving a most enjoyable feature of the winter’s social pastimes.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 15, 1885.
The Young Men’s Social Club has arranged for a grand masquerade ball at the Opera House on the evening of February 5th. Invitations will soon be issued. A costumer will be present and the Club expect to make this the social event of the winter.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 29, 1885.
The Bal Masque of the Young Men’s Social Club at the Opera House on the 5th prox. promises to be a very brilliant affair. Several hundred invitations have been issued to prominent persons in this and surrounding cities. The music will be superb and all arrangements perfect. Mrs. Archer, of Kansas City, will be on hand with a full line of costumes for ladies and gentlemen.
[Name Changed Back to “Winfield Social Club.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 5, 1885.
Arrangements are perfected that will make the Bal Masque of the Winfield Social Club at the Opera House this evening the grand society event of the year. Prominent ladies and gentlemen from Wellington, Arkansas City, and other points will be present. Mrs. Archer, the Kansas City costumer, is now at the Brettun.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 12, 1885.
The annual masquerade party of the Winfield Social Club has been the crowning social event of every winter for years past, and the one at the Opera House last Thursday evening was all that past successors could have spoken for it—in fact, many pronounce it superior to preceding ones in selectness and refinement of conduct. It was free from the promiscuous crowd and jam that usually characterize such gatherings, there being just maskers enough to fill the floor nicely and make dancing most enjoyable. The characters represented were varied and unique, elicited much admiration from the large number of spectators, and we regret our lack of space to mention each in detail. Following are the names of the maskers and the characters represented.
Ladies: Miss Nellie Cole, Cerus; Miss Mattie Harrison, Milk Maid; Miss Iowa Roberts, Water Nymph; Miss A. Marks, Wichita, Fancy Costume; Miss Leota Gary, Flower Girl; Mrs. J. L. Horning, Ghost; Miss Nina Anderson, Fancy Costume; Misses Emma and Mattie Emerson, Fancy Costumes; Miss Anna Hyde, Spanish Lady; Miss Sarah Kelly, Fancy Costume; Miss Carrie Anderson, Fancy Costume; Mrs. Ed. Cole, Folly; Mrs. Lovell Webb, Cards; Mrs. D. Rodocker, Daily News; Mrs. George Dresser, Sailor Girl; Miss Mattie Kinne, Frost; Miss Jennie Snow, Cotton Girl; Miss Hulda Goldsmith, Flower Girl; Miss Jennie Lowry, Butterfly; Miss Hattie Stolp, Fancy Costume; Miss Ida Johnston, Music; Miss Lou Clarke, Fancy Costume.
Gentlemen: B. W. Matlack, Jumping Jack; Dr. C. C. Green, Monkey and Dude; Everett Schuler, British Artilleryman; Eli Youngheim, Humpty Dumpty; Eugene Wallis, Noble Red Man; Ed. McMullen, Phillip’s Best; F. F. Leland, Double-action Pussy and Flying Dutchman; George Read, The Devil; Fred Ballein, Hamlet; D. A. Sickafoose, Page; Frank Weaverling, Mexican; A. B. Taylor, Indian War Chief; Charles Roberts, Old Uncle Joe; W. J. Hodges, Highlander; Jos. O’Hare, British Officer; Addison Brown, Highlander; J. E. Jones, Sailor; George Schuler, Page; Tom Eaton, O’Donovan Rossa; M. H. Ewart, Page; Jake Goldsmith, Clown; M. J. O’Meara, Humpty Dumpty; S. Kleeman, Black Dude; Laban Moore, Monkey; John Hudson, Clown; Frank K. Grosscup, Spanish Cavalier; A. Snowhill, Prince; A. Gogle, King Henry; Frank H. Greer, Beggar’s Student.
The excellent music of the Winfield orchestra and the experienced prompting of Mr. Chas. Gray, captivated all, while the careful floor managing of Messrs. A. H. Doane and Lacey Tomlin made everything go off without a hitch.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 19, 1885.
The Social Club has its bi-weekly hop Friday evening. Italian music will be one of he charms.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 26, 1885.
The bi-weekly hop of the social club at the Opera House Friday evening last, was a charming event, and none could have looked in on that happy assembly of forty-five couples without being imbued with the superiority of Winfield society. No city of its size in the west can equal the Queen City in this respect.
[Another Name Change: Young People’s Literary and Social Club.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 26, 1885.
Owing to the entertainment at the Opera House on Friday evening, the Young People’s Literary and Social Club has postponed its meeting for two weeks, when it meets with Miss Anna Doane.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 5, 1885.
The bi-weekly hop of the Social Club, Friday evening, will again have Italian music as one of its charms.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 12, 1885.
The Social Club has arranged to close its “hops” for the season with a calico ball on Friday evening, the 29th inst. Invitations will be extended personally by members of the club to those for whom they are willing to vouch, and indications point to a pleasurable affair. Always beautiful and charming, how much more so will Winfield’s young ladies be when attired in simple, fresh, and captivating calico. Among the social features of the city, none have been more successful or universally enjoyed than the bi-weekly hops of the Winfield Social Club and the popularity of this winter will not soon be forgotten by devotees of the Terpsichorean art.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 26, 1885.
Among Winfield’s many charming social events of the winter just closed, the calico ball at the Opera House Friday evening last carried off the queenship. The elite of the city were all present, the many calico costumes were varied and pretty, the ladies vivacious and beautiful—yes, even more beautiful than usual, arrayed in simple, captivating calico—the music excellent, and everything as perfectly enjoyable as Winfield society could make it. The Winfield Social Club’s bi-weekly hops, during the past winter, have been universally enjoyable, furnishing a social feature unexcelled. Winfield beats any city of its size in the West for good society. She stands on the pinnacle, with her thumb on her nose, holding undisputed championship in this as in everything else.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 7, 1885.
Mr. H. B. McKinney, after a tour of the eastern part of the county and western Chautauqua County, returned Friday evening in time to enjoy the Pink T. festival given by the Y. P. S. and L. club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The Young People’s Social and Literary Club had a very enjoyable meeting Friday evening in the commodious home of Mr. and Mrs. G. S. Manser. This home is specially adapted for such a gathering and with the genial hospitality of the entertainers, all were delighted. Not as many as usual were present, owing to an understanding among some that the meeting was postponed. An excellent program was rendered.
O. G. (Young Ladies’ Social Club.)
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 12, 1885.
The boys are put to their wits’ end to know what O. G.,” the mythical cognomen of the young ladies’ social club, means. “Old Girls,” “Only Girls,” “Oh, Gosh,” “Owl Gatherers,” “Only Gab,” (the last probably coming nearer to the correct cognomen of the initial letters of this club), and a myriad other titles are raked up. But none of them satisfy. Men haven’t much interest, anyhow, you know. That is all fine for women. But we’ll find out just the same. A girl can’t keep a secret.
A FEMININE CLUB.
And now the enterprising young ladies of the city have formed a social club. It is modern in design and mythical in name, “The O. G.” If any young man can figure out what that is, a large reward awaits him. This club promises to be one of the most unique features of the winter’s social enjoyment. Miss Emma Strong is president; Miss Anna Hunt, vice-president; Miss Leota Gary, secretary, and Miss Minnie Taylor, treasurer. The club holds regular business meetings every Monday evening. Its first entertainment will be given Thursday evening of next week, at the home of Miss Strong, and bi-weekly thereafter during the winter, alternately with the Young Men’s Pleasant Hour Club. Of course, the young men are not to be excluded—they are to be the guests, while the young ladies exhibit their capabilities at engineering. The invitations, for the season, will be out in a day or two. The entertainments will be given at the homes of the young ladies of the club, and be of a varied character. They will awaken a keen interest among our young society people, for their novelty and grace. Our young ladies, with their peculiar vivacity, will reach the acme of social enjoyment. The young gentlemen are in danger of losing their laurels; in fact, expect nothing else in such competition. Indications are that this winter will be one of the liveliest in social circles.
[Name Now Given to Club: “G. O.”]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 19, 1885.
And now the girls aver that we have got the name of their club backwards. It is G. O. instead of O. G. The boys guessed it, we think, and thwarted, as usual, in a woman’s attempt to keep a secret. The young ladies seek to confuse us. It’s but a small change. Before we had it “Only Gab.” Now we put it “Gab Only.” We always let the girls have their own way: can’t help it.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 10, 1885.
Archie Olmstead, a lad of eighteen, is one of the best pianists in the city. He furnished the music for the “G. O.” Club Thursday evening, his excellent time being highly commended. His playing always elicits the most favorable remark. As a piano instructor, he is a remarkable artist, and has a good class.
[Mentioned: “G. O. Club” and “Pleasant Hour Club.”]
G. O. CLUB PARTY.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 24, 1885.
The G. O. Club met Thursday eve in the very agreeable home of Miss Mary Randall. It was a thoroughly enjoyable party of our liveliest young folks, proving conclusively that the young ladies are adepts in arranging social gatherings. Those who enjoyed the occasion were: Misses Josie Bottom, of Ponca; Margie Wallis, Hattie Stolp, Leota Gary, Emma Strong, Jennie Lowry, Nona Calhoun, Bert Morford, Eva Dodds, Minnie Taylor, Ida Johnston, Nellie Rodgers, Anna McCoy, and May Hodges; Messrs. Harry Dent, of Ponca; P. H. Albright, Chas. F. and Harry Bahntge, Willis A. Ritchie, P. S. Hills, Ed. J. McMullen, George Jennings, Will Hodges, Fred Ballein, Harry Sickafoose, Frank N. Strong, Lacey Tomlin, Addison Brown, Livey Buck, and Frank H. Greer. The admirable entertainment of Miss Mary Randall, nicely assisted by her sister, Miss Ella, made all perfectly at home, with genuine jollity supreme. Cards, music, “the light fantastic,” supplemented by a choice luncheon, filled up the evening splendidly. The young ladies made an unique “hit” in this club. It is the alternate to the Pleasant Hour Club, managed by the boys. But there is more hearty sociability about it. Meeting at the homes of the members gives better opportunity for widening friendships. The Opera House, where all is form and dancing, gives a perceptible stiffness and chilliness that never exhibits itself in a private home. Yet the Pleasant Hour Club has succeeded in banishing much of this restraint—in trying to melt the cast that is always likely to exhibit itself at such parties. The social life of our young folks is more general this winter. Entertainments and parties are thick—something about every evening in the week.
G. O. Club.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, December 31, 1885.
The G. O. Club has out neat invitations for its meeting with the Misses Lizzie and Margie Wallis New Year’s eve. The place of meeting is evidence that it will be a most pleasurable gathering—a happy ending of the old year.
[G. O. Club and Other Clubs Mentioned.]
A HAPPY NEW YEAR INDEED.
Its Grand Celebration in Winfield.
The Liveliest Life in the City’s History.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 7, 1886.
Never did Winfield have as lively New Year’s festivities as those just spent. In fact, it has come to be conceded generally that, though the Queen City has always had much social life, the sociability of this winter exceeds by far. Entertainments, private and public, come thick and fast. And they are all largely attended and thoroughly enjoyable. The wonderful life on the beginning of this New Year is what we will deal with now.
THE G. O. CLUB
started the ball on a highly spirited roll New Year’s eve, in its party in the very pleasant home of the Misses Lizzie and Margie Wallis, whose admirable entertaining qualities are highly appreciated by all who have ever spent an evening in their home. Those present Thursday eve were: Misses Ora Worden, of Garnett, Mary Randall, Anna Hunt, Leota Gary, Anna McCoy, Minnie Taylor, Hattie Stolp, Bert Morford, Nona Calhoun, Ida Johnston, Nellie and Kate Rodgers, Maggie Harper, Mary Berkey, Julia Smith, and Eva Dodds; Messrs. Eugene Wallis, Frank N. Strong, Chas. F. and Harry Bahntge, Everett and George Schuler, Lacey Tomlin, Ed J. McMullen, L. J. Buck, Frank Robinson, F. F. Leland, G. E. Lindsley, L. B. Davis of Chicago, Addison Brown, Will E. Hodges, Harry Sickafoose, Tom J. Eaton, A. F. Hopkins, and Frank H. Greer. Restraint, under the pleasant entertainment of the Misses Wallis, is always unknown. So it was on this occasion. Everybody “turned themselves loose” and ended the old year in supreme jollity. Dancing, cards, a choice repast, with unadulterated “Gab Only,” made the evening fly on rapid wings, with the wish for many more just like it.
NEW YEAR’S CALLERS.
The large attendance at the wedding interfered considerably with New Year’s calling. It interfered with the formal banquet of many who would otherwise have kept formal open house. But the enjoyment was all the greater. Too much form spoils fun. About fifty callers were out, the two largest parties being “The Young Men’s Kerosene Association,” composed of Ed. J. McMullen, Tom J. Eaton, Frank F. Leland, Will E. Hodges, Addison Brown, Frank Robinson, and Livey T. Buck, and the “Great and Only Original Order of Modern S. of G.’” composed of D. H. Sickafoose, J. W. Spindler, A. F. Hopkins, E. Youngheim, R. Hudson, L. T. Tomlin, F. H. Greer, O. J. Dougherty. J. Lorton, and Q. A. Robertson. Judge Torrance, Senator Hackney, Judge Soward, and Ed P. Greer, formed another party; D. A. Millington and J. C. Fuller, another; Will C. and Geo. W. Robinson, Chas. F., Harry, and Barron Bahntge and Dr. J. G. Evans, another; R. E. Wallis, Jr., E. M. Meech, and Hobe Vermilye, another; J. L. M. Hill, Harry Steinhilber, S. Kleeman, and a number of others, whom our reporter didn’t strike were out, with all the eclat of aristocratic “Bosting.” The cartoons and elegant card cases (market baskets) of the “Kerosine Club” and “Modern S. of G.’s” would make Nast feel very tired. A myriad of homes were greeted with “A Happy New Year,” regardless of “open house” announcements. At a number of places the preparations were great, with grand banquets, among these being the home of Mrs. Black, she being admirably assisted in receiving by Mrs. B. H. Riddell, Mrs. A. C. Bangs, Mrs. Ada Perkins, and the Misses Lizzie and Margie Wallis, who had sent out neat “at homes” and entertained over fifty guests; at the home of Chas. F. Bahntge, where Misses Nona Calhoun and Bert Morford were kept busy receiving from four to eight; at Mrs. Dr. Emerson’s, where she was assisted by Mrs. W. L. Webb, and Miss Anna Hunt; at Mrs. L. G. and Miss Nellie Cole’s; at the residence of R. E. Wallis, where Miss Willie Wallis was assisted by Misses Jennie Snyder, Annie Doane, Lillie Wilson, Pearl Van Doren, and Margaret Spotswood—the happiest bevy imaginable. The spreads at all these places were simply immense, embracing about everything. At the numerous other places the greeting was not supplemented by refreshments, a happy thought to the callers after they had got through with the wedding dinner and the “layouts” above given. Some of the ladies gave their callers very fine cards—cards exquisite as New Year’s souvenirs.
G. O. Club.
“GAB ONLY.”
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The G. O. Club had a very delightful meeting Thursday eve in the pleasant home of Miss Mary Berkey. The sleet and rain didn’t brook many of the members. Arthur Bangs’ cabs were brought out and headed off the weather. It was a jolly gathering, composed of Misses Ida Ritchie, Anna Johnson, Mattie Harrison, Ora Worden, Lizzie and Margie Wallis, Nellie and Kate Rodgers, Ida Johnston, Minnie Taylor, and Josie Pixley; Messrs. A. F. Hopkins, Tom J. Eaton, Willis A. Ritchie, Everett T. and Geo. H. Schuler, G. E. Lindsley, L. J. Buck, J. W. Spindler, Ed J. McMullen, Addison Brown, and Frank H. Greer. The entertainment of Miss Mary Berkey, nicely assisted by her sisters, Mrs. Bishop and Miss Eva, was most agreeable. Various amusements, supplemented by music and a choice luncheon, made the evening pass very happily to all.
HAPPY PASS THE HOURS.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 4, 1886.
The G. O. Club gave one of the most pleasurable parties of the winter series in the commodious home of Misses Nellie and Kate Rodgers, Thursday evening. It was a bad night, but with the excellent hack facilities of Arthur Bangs, the elements were conquered and by nine o’clock the following very jolly crowd were present: Mrs. M. Hite, Mrs. A. D. Hendricks and Miss Laura, Misses Sallie Bass, Ida Ritchie, Mattie Harrison, Nona Calhoun, Bert Morford, Ida Johnston, Lizzie and Margie Wallis, Leota Garry, Nellie Cole, Maggie Harper, Anna McCoy, Mary Randall, Eva Dodds, and Mary Berkey; Messrs. G. E. Lindsley, F. and Harry Bahntge, Frank N. Strong, P. S. Hills, A. F. Hopkins, R. E. Wallis, Jr., Will E. Hodges, Everett T. and Geo. H. Schuler, Lacey Tomlin, Wm. D. Carey, and Frank H. Greer. For novelty, all were accompanied by a sheet and pillow case, and the first half hour witnessed only ambling phantoms, whose ghostly presence was weird and mysterious. But a little of the ghost business was enough, and soon all were happily mingling in their natural array. Music, the light fantastic, cards, and various appropriate amusements, with an excellent luncheon, filled in the time most enjoyable until 12 o’clock. The Misses Rodgers are very admirable entertainers, graceful and jolly, and made a genuine freedom among their guests most acceptable.
THE G. O.’S MATRIMONIAL RESOLVES.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 11, 1886.
The G. O. Club held its first regular business meeting, Monday evening, since the departure of Miss Lowry into the Elysian fields of matrimony. It was the first opportunity the club had had to express its collective feelings. The following is about as neat an expression as could possibly be made, and got the club’s unanimous voice.
WHEREAS, That everlasting tormenter, Cupid, has seen fit to cast his darts among us and pierce the heart of our esteemed member, Miss Jennie Lowry, compelling her to submit to his caprices and take upon herself the duties of a wife, therefore, be it
Resolved, That we, the G. O. Club, tender to our defunct member our heartfelt sympathy in her loss of pleasure as a member of our club. And be it also
Resolved, That upon the other hand we extend congratulations to her upon the acquisition of that which we are all hoping for—a husband—and hope a long life of happiness and prosperity may be hers. Be it further
Resolved, That these resolutions be spread upon the books of the Club and a copy of the same be sent to her who was once one of us. Signed, G. O. CLUB.
A CHARMING EVENT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 18, 1886.
Certainly there could be no happier occasion than that at the elegant and spacious home of C. F. Bahntge, Thursday. It was the bi-weekly party of the G. O. club. The popularity of Misses Bert Morford and Nona Calhoun and Messrs. Chas. F. and Harry Bahntge as entertainers was fully sustained—warm-hearted, graceful, lively and free, a manner that completely banished all restraint and made supreme gaiety unalloyed.
The guests were: Dr. and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, Mrs. A. T. Spotswood, and Mrs. B. H. Riddell; Misses Ida Ritchie, Mattie Harrison, Sallie Bass, Jennie Hane, Anna Hunt, Mary Randall, Mary Berkey, Emma Strong, Leota Gary, Nettie and Anna McCoy, Ida Johnston, Nell and Kate Rodgers, Nellie Cole, Hattie Stolp, Eva Dodds, and Lizzie and Margie Wallis; Messrs. J. L. M. Hill, P. H. Albright, G. E. Lindsley, Will E. Hodges, Byron Rudolf, Everett T. and George H. Schuler, Ed. J. McMullen, Lacey T. Tomlin, Tom J. Eaton, Willis A. Ritchie, Harry Sickafoose, Wm. D. Carey, Frank N. Strong, Frank F. Leland, Ivan A. Robinson, Addison Brown, and Frank H. Greer.
The appointments of this richly furnished and very agreeable home are splendidly adapted to a gathering of this kind. The Roberts Orchestra was present with its charming music and the joyous guests indulged in the “mazy” to their heart’s content, mingling cards and tete-a-tete. The collation was especially excellent and bounteous. Nothing but the ancient “wee sma” hours abridged the gaiety, when all departed with warmest appreciation of their delightful entertainers.
And right here we can’t quell the remark that the young ladies have made a brilliant success of the G. O. Club. It is one of the most pleasurable sources of amusement yet inaugurated in the city—one giving the young ladies ample scope to exhibit their superior qualities in the entertainment line. It is a very pleasant and successful alternate to the Pleasant Hour Club. Of course the P. H. has long since delivered the prize to the G. O.
“G. O. Club” and “Literary Union.”
SOCIAL WINFIELD.
Very Pleasant Meetings of the G. O. Club and Literary Union.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 18, 1886.
The G. O. Club gave another of its very enjoyable parties last evening in the agreeable home of Miss Anna Hunt. The juicy consistency of real estate didn’t interfere in the least with the attendance. Cabs were out and annihilated any weather inconvenience. Those participating in the gaiety of the evening were: Dr. and Mrs. Geo. Emerson, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Balliet, Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Cole, Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Webb, and Mr. and Mrs. F. C. Hunt; Misses Nettie and Anna McCoy, Lizzie and Margie Wallis, Ida Ritchie, Nellie Cole, Maggie Harper, Ida Johnston, Mary Berkey, Eva Dodds, Hattie Stolp, Minnie Taylor, and Leota Gary; Messrs. C. A. Bower, A. G. Haltinwanger, Frank F. Leland, Addison Brown, Charles F. and Harry Bahntge, Otto Weile, Willis A. Ritchie, Lacey T. Tomlin, H. D. Sickafoose, G. E. Lindsley, P. S. Hills, James Lorton, Eugene Wallis, Will E. Hodges, George Schuler, and Frank H. Greer. The graceful entertainment of Miss Anna, appropriately assisted by Capt. and Mrs. Hunt, was most admirable. With various popular amusements and the merriest converse, supplemented by choice refreshments, all retired in the realization of a most delightful evening, full appreciating the genial hospitality of Miss Hunt. The G. O.’s will probably have but one or two more meetings this season. Successful indeed have been its parties during the winter, affording a very pleasurable alternate to the Pleasant Hour Club. The young ladies have certainly shown themselves adepts in the art of entertainment. The boys readily deliver the laurels.
The Literary Union, though unavoidably meeting on the same evening of the G. O., had a good attendance and an evening of much interest and profit. It met in the capacious home of Miss Lola Silliman, whose happy reception made perfect freedom and enjoyment. The program was acceptably arranged and meritable—Quartette music by Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Brown, C. I. Forsyth, and Charles Slack; a revel with Longfellow, with numerous and applicable quotations, all giving a stanza; a basso solo by Mr. Forsyth, with Miss Kelly at the instrument; essay, “The Moral Codes,” N. W. Mayberry; vocal duet by Mrs. Brown and Chas. Slack; recitation by Miss Maud Kelly; duet, violin and piano, A. F. Hopkins and Miss Silliman; recitation, by Frank H. Greer. Besides those named there were present: Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Silliman, and Mrs. A. Silliman; Misses Eva Berkey, Minnie Burney, and Ora Lowry; Messrs. P. S. Hills, James Lorton, O. D. Wagner, M. A. Stewart, C. E. Webb, L. E. Barbour, and Lewin Plank. This Union certainly has a meritable object—the drawing out, in pleasant and profitable entertainment, the city’s literary ability and taste. It will at once enlist the appreciation of all of a literary or musical turn. Among the city’s numerous parties where “airy pleasantries” are the order, a Union of this kind is very appropriate. The next entertainment will be given in the new St. James Hotel parlors, in conjunction with a social by the Ladies Aid Society.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 8, 1886.
The G. O. Club, at its regular business meeting Friday, decided to close the season with its next reception, for which Mrs. Senator Hackney has tendered her spacious home.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 15, 1886.
THE G. O. CLUB.
The elegant and spacious new home of Senator and Mrs. W. P. Hackney was a most pleasurable scene last night. It was a reception in honor of the G. O. Club. The unavoidable absence of the Senator in Topeka was the only regret. It was one of the happiest meetings in the history of the club. Mrs. Hackney was very gracefully assisted in entertaining by Miss Eva Dodds. This was the first opening of this beautiful home and the guests found delight in wandering through the richly furnished and capacious apartments. Everything exhibits cultured taste and modern fashion. The entire remodeling of the interior and exterior, with its bright new furnishings, has made one of the most elaborate homes in the Queen City, if not in the whole state—elaborate in all that pertains to elegance and comfort. There is no gaudy display. All is in perfect taste from the first floor to the third. At eleven o’clock the west parlors were cleared, miniature tables spread, and the gay party sat down to a luncheon exceptionally fine, many choice delicacies with a sprinkling of the substantial. The rain storm brought out the hacks for the home-taking, and all departed with the highest praises of this grand home and the delightful entertainment afforded on this occasion. The guests were: Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Brown, Mrs. D. L. Kretsinger, Mrs. B. H. Riddell, Mrs. B. W. Matlack, Mrs. Spence Miner, and Mrs. Alice Bishop; Misses Nettie and Annie McCoy, Nellie and Kate Rodgers, Leota Gary, Nona Calhoun, Bert Morford, Hattie Stolp, Ida Johnston, Jennie Hane, Ida Ritchie, Mary Berkey, and Nellie McMullen; Messrs. Wm. D. Carey, Tom P. Richardson, A. F. Hopkins, Willis A. Ritchie, Lacey Tomlin, Will E. Hodges, Chas. F. and Harry Bahntge, Ed J McMullen, Tom J. Eaton, J. L. M. Hill, Harry Sickafoose, Frank N. Strong, G. E. Lindsley, Ivan A. Robinson, Geo. H. Schuler, Addison Brown, and Frank H. Greer.
Literary and Social Society.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 26, 1885.
The spacious parlors of Mrs. J. E. Platter’s home were the scene of a very enjoyable gathering Friday evening. An opportunity to spend an evening in Mrs. Platter’s pleasant home is always delightfully received. The occasion was for the organization of a Literary and Social Society to meet semi-monthly during the winter, composed principally of young folks, with a sprinkling of ripened age as an agreeable balance. Mrs. E. D. Garlick was elected president; Mrs. J. E. Platter, vice-president; P. T. Bertram, secretary, and Addison Brown, treasurer. The committee on literary program—Misses Belle Linn and Ida Johnston; Messrs. S. D. Harper and Moore Tanner. On music—Misses Pearl Van Doren and Bertha Wallis. During the evening, a large variety of stereopticon views were a source of pleasing and instructive entertainment. The place of the first regular meeting of the Society, at the home of one of the members, will be announced in THE COURIER.
An Article Relative to Dancing. Mentions Pleasant Hour Club.
THE DANCING QUESTION AGAIN.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
Allow me to ask you a few questions that your strictures in Monday’s COURIER upon dancing, etc., called out. You say “joy vents itself in music and dancing as naturally as sparks fly upward.” I have reached close on three score and ten, and have never once expressed my joy in a dance nor ever had any desire to do so. For about fifty-five years, I have rejoiced in God, my Savior, and now as I am nearing the end of my journey, my joy increases, and my hope of heaven brightens. My joy vents itself in thanksgiving and praise to God for his loving kindness and tender mercies to me, and for my hope of eternal life through his son, the Lord Jesus. Have I been wrong all these years in giving vent to my joy in the way I have done? Please answer me plainly. YOUR FRIEND.
The above comes from a gentleman whose example is the greatest evidence of the peace and joy of the Christian religion. His countenance is always happy, his words cheering, his association stimulating. His long life has been devoted to God and humanity. His religion is practical. He don’t hold aloof from sinners through a seeming fear of contamination. He seeks them for the good he can do them—not by long lectures and sanctimonious admonitions persistently thrust, but by his example of true manhood, by his joyous words and ready encouragement. His joy vents itself in this way with a satisfaction most admirable. This is his sweetest joy and the world’s greatest good. But all are not alike. Few can reach the pinnacle of his faith, even though they have his years. Youthful joy must vent itself in the hilarity prompted by the vigor and tastes. Many can’t dance and have no love for music—neither has thrills of joy for them. To others these are natural channels of joy. That dancing is wrong in itself none can declare. When carried on properly it cultivates grace, ease of manner in society, and is healthful. Wrong can be made of it. It can be carried to excess and its associations may become damaging. So can thousands of things that the pulpit and press countenance. Let the happy soul, if it thus finds delight, revel moderately in music and dance. Let the associations be governed, just as all social gatherings should be governed, by the standard of good character. As carried on in Winfield, by the Pleasant Hour Club, for instance, and as indulged in the parlors of some of our homes, there is no better amusement: no more graceful or enlivening past-time. It don’t cultivate intellect—social parties are not for that purpose; they are for relaxation for the mind is drowning things weighty in “airy pleasantries”—just as the case at church socials or other places of social intent. Let the hours be reasonable and the associations as elevating as possible, and it can be nothing but the most innocent, invigorating, and acceptable amusement—fully in keeping with true character and the purest existence. Let all dance for joy whose natures best find it in that way, reverencing every character that finds its enjoyment in different channels, in keeping with morality and sound judgment. Nothing is wrong unless you make it so. It is not the use, but the abuse that should be discountenanced.
The following article, like the one above, discusses dancing: in a different city...
A GLOVE ARGUMENT.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
The El Dorado Republican advocates the kid-gloving of its Terpsichorean club. It says: “It is only within the past year that our efforts to attain the acme of a first-class dancing club have been laurel crowned. But we have attained that height and are rewarded by the existence of the ne plus ultra of Terpsichorean clubs, the “Entre Nous.” The club is composed of ladies and gentlemen who are, without doubt, au fait in all the requirements of etiquette and good taste, and who make the same manifest, with one exception. This exception rests with the gentlemen, who, it seems, have foresworn the use of gloves in dancing. With some gentlemen it is a prejudice, they deeming it an affectation and entirely superfluous. Not so however, especially under the circumstances of this club, which makes it a duty, easily recognized when once suggested. The balls of our club have grown to that importance as regards dress that ladies out vie each other in displaying recherche toilettes. Their pride and their purses are equally aroused. A lady will spend days in modeling a costume to her fancy, and as long in having it wrought into “a thing of beauty,” but which alas! cannot remain a “joy forever,” even for one season, because of the indelible stains caused by perspiring hands. A most charming dress was thus ruined during a late dance given by the club. A dress that was so admired and discanted on by the gallant partners of her, who so gracefully wore it, yet the next day’s investigation found it despoiled of much of its beauty; entire hand marks were here and there visible, so as to render it unfit for future inspection. There may be dissenters to this glove notion, who will declare it a great expense. Not so great as imagined. Not necessarily so. White gloves are not indispensable as a ball glove nor even the ‘opera’ shades, though may be preferable, but darker tints are allowable and in good taste. The new shades of creamy brown are both lovely and endurable in color. A pair of good standard gloves of that color would, with care, endure an entire season. Then by all means wear gloves hereafter, in dancing, and spare your fair partner of bewailing the ruin of some choice garment. Be sure ‘they will arise’ en masse and call you blessed.”
Response to above article...
TOO MUCH TONE.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
The kid-glove argument of the El Dorado Republican, as published in THE COURIER Saturday evening, advising the gloving of the hands for all club party dances, as a protection to the ladies’ delicate attire, is all right for a full dress ball, where display and eclat is expected; but for club dances, little bi-weekly parties where “swell” style should be smothered in genuine, free-hearted sociability, the kid glove custom would be a nuisance. Winfield society is as refined, as elegant, and fashionable in dress, and as cultured in everything as that of any city in the west; and we have never yet heard a lady bewail the lack of the kid glove at club parties or small social gatherings where dancing was the order. Kids have been properly relegated as affected and superfluous. They are all stiffness and form. A neat silk or linen handkerchief, always in hand while dancing, is more becoming and just as effective. The kid glove looks very lonely without harmonizing attire—the swallow tail or Prince Albert. When society gets so fastidious that gentlemen can’t appear at a little social party without their kid gloves and swallow tails—without full-dress array—we had better sell out to the dudes and dudines, at slaughter sale, and quit business. They are only in place at full-dress, regular “swell” receptions or parties. Neatness, without gaudiness, prevails in Winfield society. And it shows good common sense.
CARD GAMES.
Whist Club.
Winfield Courier, December 3, 1885.
The Whist Club met last evening with Miss Anna Hunt, with a full representation, five tables. The evening was passed most enjoyably, supplemented by the regulation coffee, sandwich, and pickles. One of the by-laws of the club is that nothing more than these articles can be provided for luncheon. A tabulated score of the different games is being kept, the champion player to be announced at the end of the season.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The Whist Club had a very pleasant meeting in the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Wilson Thursday eve. There were five tables, with an interest and vim most enjoyable.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 21, 1886.
The Whist Club met Monday evening with Mr. and Mrs. Fred C. Hunt. There were ten couples present and a very pleasurable evening spent. The requisite number of games for the championship of the winter were finished and Miss Ida Ritchie and Tom J. Eaton were declared the champions. The competition during the last few meetings grew very warm, and some highly scientific playing was recorded. New officers were elected as follows: Dr. Emerson, president, and Fred C. Hunt was re-elected secretary and referee. The next meeting, Tuesday evening next, will be with Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Fuller. Hereafter, all members who can’t be present are to send their regret by the morning before the meeting, that even tables may be arranged.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 28, 1886.
The Whist Club met Tuesday evening with Mrs. J. C. Fuller, The players were unusually lively and the occasion passed very enjoyably. Mrs. Fuller is an adept at entertaining and an evening in her pleasant home is always highly appreciated.
A CURIOUS WHIST PROBLEM.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 4, 1886.
Among the amusements in Winfield during the past winter evenings, whist has been quite popular and has attracted a considerable attention. It is a very interesting game when played skillfully by good players, and several excellent players have shown up on these occasions. Much has been said about old styles of play and the new scientific game of which Pole is the apostle.
The other evening a curious problem presented itself to four of our Winfield players, bearing upon the merits of the Pole style of play. We will call these four players A, B, C, and D, so as to not give them away.
A and C played as partners, they are experts but don’t go much on Pole. B and D played against them and play by the scientific rules.
D dealt first with A to his left and hearts were trumps.
A held, hearts 1, 2; diamonds 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, q, k; spades 2, clubs 2.
B held, hearts 8, 9, 10; diamonds jack; spades 1, j, q, k; clubs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
C held, hearts 7, j, q, k; diamonds 1, 2; spades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
D held, hearts 3, 4, 5, 6; diamonds 10; spades 10; clubs 1, 3, 5, j, q, k.
A leads 2 clubs, B 6, C7 hearts, D 3 suit.
C takes and leads 1 diamonds, D 10, A 3, B jack.
C takes and leads 2 diamonds, D 10 spades, A, k suit, B 8 hearts.
B takes and leads k spades, C 3, D 4 clubs, A 2 suit.
B takes and leads 1 spades, C 4, D 5 clubs, A 2 hearts.
A takes and leads q dia., B 9 hearts, C j hearts, D j spades.
C takes and leads 5 spades, D q clubs, A 1 hearts, B j suit.
A takes and leads 9 diamonds, B 10 hearts, C q hearts, D k clubs.
C takes and leads 6 spades, D 1 clubs, A 4 diamonds, B q suit.
B takes and leads 7 clubs, C k hearts, C 3 hearts, A 5 diamonds.
C takes and leads 7 spades, D 4 hearts, A 6 diamonds, B 8 clubs.
D takes and leads 6 hearts, A 8 dia., B 10 clubs, C 9 spades.
D takes. A and C gets 7 tricks and make 1 point.
A. remarks, “One point is pretty good considering that we had so poor hands.”
B answers, “I think not. Self and partner, with your hands and you with ours, would probably have made thirteen points.”
Says A, “I bet you would not have got more than one point. Let us try it.”
So the cards are selected and dealt in the same way by A, with the same trump, B holding the hand just held by A, C holding B’s, D holding C’s and A holding D’s
B leads K of diamonds, C jack, D 1, A 10.
D takes and leads K hearts, A 3, B 1, C 8.
B takes and leads 2 hearts, C 9, D q, A 4.
D takes and leads jack hearts, A 5, B 2 clubs, C 10 hearts.
D takes and leads 7 hearts, A 6, B 2 spades, C 10 hearts.
D takes and leads 2 diamonds, A 3 clubs, B q suit, C 7 clubs.
B takes and having an established suit of diamonds and nothing else, takes the other seven tricks. So B and D made seven points by the Pole style of playing on the same hands with which A and B made only one point under same circumstances by the old style of playing.
We think it would be hard to find another combination of cards that the style of playing would make six points difference in one deal, and that one point difference would be far too much to count on.
The following article sums up many of the social clubs in Winfield in 1886...
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 8, 1886.
The winter will linger long in memory as the liveliest in the history of social Winfield. There has been a continuous ocean of entertainments. Those with capacious homes have tried to excel in royal hospitality and t heir numerous receptions have been marked by the greatest pleasure and satisfaction. The Pleasant Hour Club, the G. O. Club, the Whist Club, and various clubs and societies have kept up a busy whirl of social gatherings. What we have often remarked, we repeat again, with more emphasis than ever: Never was there a more social city of its size than Winfield. And this sociability is of the genuine, free-hearted sort that admits no “codfish” aristocracy or stilted prudishness. While fashion and refinement prevail, there is none of that prim dignity that falls over a gathering like a dose of ice water; none of that abominable adherence to form that dampens true social commingling; nothing somber and repellant; everything is stamped with that invigorating jollity and graceful, easy sociability that melts every wall flower and broadens acquaintanceships that will long live in the store house of remembrance. So may it ever be. But the season of warmth is approaching, when the dance, the whist, the reception, et al, will be replaced by gauzy array and the enticing antics of the red lemonade picnic, with its chigger, mosquito, and hammock attachment. And on we go, mid childhood, youth, old age, taxes, and death. But while we do live, let us continue to be social; agreeable one to another. One vivacious compatible being with his smiles and buoyant encouragement is worth a hundred dyspeptic growlers, with his Alaskan visage and repelling sputterings—at odds with God, the devil, and man. That Winfield has but few such is a matter for great thanksgiving and praise. Ta-ta.
