Soldiers Re-Union

From the Valley Falls Register, September 2, 1887

The annual Re-Union of the ex-soldiers’ and sailors of Jefferson county was held in the city Park of this city on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. Though a little threatening in the morning, the weather proved desirable, and by noon a large crowd had arrived. Early in the morning flags and bunting were displayed profusely along the principal streets, and in various parts of the city — it was dressed in holiday attire and the visitors felt at home as soon as they beheld the cheering colors of the red, white and blue. The crowd grew and grew, reminding many of a 4th of [July] celebration. The city park had been put in order. A row of white tents, 600 feet in length, fringed two sides of the beautiful and umbrageous park, making a strikingly pleasing contrast with the heavy foliage of green. The tables 100 feet long were spread, an immense kettle, 40 gallons, of bacon and beans were cooking, and the prospect for a feast, and a patriotic flow of soul was pleasing. At noon the Parade was formed at the City Park headed by the Oskaloosa band in their fine new uniforms, and marched down Carolina street to Maple, thence up Broadway to the Park. About 60 old soldiers, the Nortonville band and Zouaves and a number of children were in line besides the Oskaloosa band.

 

U.S. flag, 1887

Capt. L.H. Gest was Commander of ceremonies and shortly after the parade sounded the “call” to order and entered upon the program.

Mayor Crosby delivered the address of welcome in a feeling manner and Dr. J.W. Balsley, of Oskaloosa happily responded. Then came dinner, and a royal feast of bacon, beans, hard tack and coffee was indulged in. Great squads of beans were attacked and some of the comrades had to be actively supported, being very nearly repulsed by overwhelming members. However, the old heroes came out victorious as usual, the beans all being taken prisoners. The exercises at the stand were then continued, and by speeches, music, social conversation, all had a general good time. Rev. Biggs, Hon. G.W. McCammon, Rev. Hill and Rev. Young and Mrs. Wood made short and interesting speeches. Adjourned to 8 p.m. A big crowd assembled to hear the Camp-fire exercised, and for two hours or more were variously entertained. About a dozen comrades talked, and told of their experiences in the army and were greeted by applause in every instance. Of those who responded we mention: Edwin Snyder, Dr. W.H. Lemon, Geo. Davis, W.C. Fowler, J.M. Puderbaugh, Col. Ritter, A.P. Reardon and Wm. Turner. The grand chorus sung several army and patriotic songs, and the Oak St. orchestra rendered some fine selections. At the conclusion of these exercises the officers for the ensuing year were elected as follows:

President, Dr. J.W. Balsley; Secretary, Geo. Davis, both of Oskaloosa.

At the session Thursday morning, the old soldier’s seats were well filled and Rev. Hurburt made an address, which was followed by several toasts and responses of an interesting character, and every thing passed off highly satisfactory.

RESOLUTION OF THANKS

Whereas, The Cornet bands of our neighboring cities, Oskaloosa and Nortonville, have favored us with their presence, valuable service and excellent music, during the County Re-Union, therefore be it 

Resolved, That Staffored Post No, 225 of Valley Falls, Kans., hereby tender its heartfelt thanks for the interest manifested and will long cherish their memory, and be it further, 

Resolved, That this resolution apply in full force to all who have assisted us in making this Re-union a success.

W. D. Fowler, G. W. McCammon, com.

At noon an adjournment was reached.

NOTES:

• It was a gala time.
• The bacon and beans were excellent.
• Many were disappointed in not hearing Capt. L.A. Myers speak.
• Everybody spoke in high complimentary terms of our fine city park.
• Dr. Lemon was inspired to make a big talk, after the singing of “Marching through Georgia,” which is a special theme of his.
• The Oskaloosa band, musical organization, of which the citizens of that town should be proud, was an especial feature of the Re-union, and they agreeably serenaded many places of business during their visit. The editor of the Register returns thanks for a serenade visit they paid his residence, where they rendered two fine selections from their large repertoire.
• Col. Ritter in sten’orian tones said he thought the soldiers should be better paid.
• Though a queenly, bright moon shown resplendent, electric lights would have added to the beauties of the park at the camp-fire. Some of the comrades spoke in obedience to orders, especially when the corporal brought ’em in.
  
• The singing of “Beans, Beans” to the tune of “Sweet Bye and Bye” brought out the camp-fire cheer.
• Stafford Post No. 225, G.A.R. did a flourishing business at the refreshment stand.
• Mr. Turner thought the boys and girls should be taught lessons of patriotism.
• Most of the speakers favored forgetting the dead issues of the war; but the sentiments of loyalty and patriotism, never.
• Mr. Snyder read a plaintive appeal from a veteran of N.Y., who has been poverty stricken for eight years.
• Rev. Young was too young to go to war, but gave the boys an amusing talk all the same.
• Most of the townships in the county were represented.

  

  "Der Zouave," Van Gogh

• The Nortonville “Zouaves” attracted much attention with their red toboggans.
• Over 100 old soldiers registered their names.
• A circle of about 20 ladies, of the G.A.R. was formed at the hall.
• Rev’s Geiger and Wade officiated in the openings by prayer.
• So many friends and visitors attended the Re-Union that we could not “list” them all in our paper.

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2012.

Meriden Merchants of 1893

The Meriden Weekly Tribune, 4 March 1893

Below we give a short sketch of our present business men.

THE STATE BANK

Of Meriden is one of our solid institutions and is here to stay. It was established by The Schuster Hax National Bank of St. Joseph, Mo., three years ago under the laws of the State and has a clean record with the Bank Examiner. It numbers among its stockholders some of the wealthiest men of Saint Joseph, and is in a position to furnish the people of our city and vicinity with first class accommodations. Mr. C.A. Shoup the president, takes an active part in the bank’s management and is well known in business and financial circles. Mr. L.A. Sharrard has been the cashier of the bank since it was established, he is the right man in the right place, and has the esteem and good will of all the business men and others.

ARNOLD HARDWARE CO.

Our enterprising young business man Gene Arnold left the farm about a year ago, and commenced business in the capacity of Hardware dealer, during which time he has had a good share of the peoples patronage, there were two other stores here at the time but never the less, Mr. Arnold went ahead and is gaining a better foot hold right along, and deserves patronage.

W.A. GARDNER

Mr. Gardner came to Meriden in the spring of 1878. At that time a Mr. Parks had a small frame store building on that corner, and Mr. Gardner bought it of him. Just opposite on the corner north, Len H. Tripp had a small frame store building, and farther up the street where Kendall Herron Mer. Co. store now is, M. S. Peterson had a similar store building. There were no sidewalks here at that time; one can form an idea of the appearance of our city then. In 1880 they built their new store and moved the old one to where it now stands just south of Mr. Schafer’s harness shop. Today we see that they have made vast improvements, they have porches and sidewalks around their store besides having paved the street with stone in front and on the west. They have dealt with the people of Meriden for the last fourteen years and are still holding forth and have a good patronage.

ANDREW WILSON

The jeweler, came from Winchester a few weeks ago and started a jewelry store in the Star Bakery. He has a good supply of jewelry on hand and will sell at prices that beat Topeka. Remember this and give him your patronage, and in this way make it possible for him to remain in our city.

KENDALL - HERRON MER. CO.

Commenced business here in 1888 in the Frisbie building and remained there until the fall of 1891, when they moved into their new quarters where they now are. They are both shrewd business men and are well known. They are doing a good business and are here to stay.

SCHAFER AND SON

Came to Meriden just a year ago. At that time there was no harness shop here, they rented a building and commenced to make harness and do repairing. Mr. Schafer always buys the best of leather and being a skilled workman turns out better harness than you find in many larger cities. He has sold a good many sets of harness and they are giving good satisfaction. They have several set of their own hand made heavy harness in readiness and it will keep them busy to supply the spring trade. We trust that the farmers will give them their support and not go to Topeka to buy when they can get what they want at their home shop.

PEEBLER AND BARR

Started the first hardware store in Meriden, commencing business here in 1889, and are still in the same location. Mr. Peebler was not in the store during the first two or three years, but was connected with it. He has now had the post office for four years. Mr. Barr is now in the civil service work, and is not in the store very much. They are both well known here and are well patronized.

W.H. WOOD

Commenced business here in 1884 down on the corner, where the rod front building was, and did business there two years. Then built his large stone store building that he now occupies. He has done considerable business here during his eight years. He intends moving his goods to some other locality soon.

L.M. ESHOM

The oldest barber in town commenced his business here in 1879 in Smith & Gilluly store. He was absent for about two years, then opened up shop where Mr. Perkinson is. He is very well patronized.

S.H. CHACEY

Our enterprising cart manufacturer is getting ready to manufacture the best cart in the market, so as to keep a good supply on hand. As you have only to ride in one of them a short distance until you come to the conclusion that it is the easiest riding cart in the market, and will have to buy one. Have you seen them? If not, call at his shop and examine them.

Z.B. PERKINSON

The Star Bakery man moved to where he now is in December, a little over a year ago. He came from the farm and has built up a good trace in his business. He has every thing in the bakery line.

I.H. McQUILKIN & CO.

            New proprietor of the tin shop formerly with W.H. Wood for five or six years as tinner and formerly in business in North Topeka. He has just commenced in business here. Irv is a rustler and a good tinner and is so well known that it is a fore gone conclusion that he will be patronized. We need a good tinner and should keep one by giving him our patronage.

HUBER BROS.

Have been furnishing the people of our city with everything in the meat line since Jan. 1st, 1889. They are worthy of the large patronage that they now have.

W.J. WALTER

Who was formerly in Topeka, June 1891 he set up a shop in the Frazer building, Campbell and Goodwin had a blacksmith shop where Walter is now. After a few months they sold to Mr. Walter and he combined the two shops. Since then he has made vast improvements. He has built another room on the west side and has an engine to run his new emery wheel and bellows. He has dug a cistern which is to keep the engine supplied with water. Everything is fixed in perfect order and he is now prepared to do the amount of work that is coming in every day, in short notice. He is acknowledged by all to be a skilled workman.

WILLIAM CRULL

“Dad” as he is called by nearly every one came to Meriden in the fall of 1879. He farmed the first year then went into the transfer business. Three years ago Feb. 23, he bought the livery stable and is still transferring goods. He has three horses that he had before he bought the stable, Queen, Fannie and Jim, but none of the ones that he bought with the stable. He is our old reliable liveryman, and can furnish you a double seated carriage, a team and buggy, a saddle horse, a sleigh, a single driver, and in fact anything you need in the livery line.

W.G. AULTS

Started his meat market in 1880. He has had his shop in several different locations. He has sold considerable meat in Meriden, and is still at his old stand.

W.J. MILLER

Commenced business here in 1878 and is now mending and making shoes. This makes his thirteen years in business here.

F.A. TRIPP

The barber, has been in business here for a little over six years. His shop is fixed up in fine shape and will give you a good shave for ten cents. He has a splendid trade. He will hone your razor or cut your hair for a quarter.

Photo courtesy of Meriden History

A. & L.W. MOSIER

Mr. A. Mosier has been in business here since 1885. At that time they bought the store of J.D. Lynch where Huber Bros. meat market is at the present time. The firm’s name was A. & J.W. Mosier. L.W. is now one of the firm and J.W. is in business at Herrington. In 1886 they built their large building they now occupy at the same time W.H. Wood built. They have purchased W.H. Wood’s building and now own the whole store. They carry a good line of goods and are enterprising business men.

NOTE: Continued in Meriden Weekly Tribune of 11 March 1893

MR. E. SMITH

Took charge of the American House on the first of this month. He is a good man for the place. For a good square meal or a clean bed go to the American House.

JOHN McLUCAS

Is now the rushing implement man of the town. He buys grain and sells coal. He was formerly proprietor of the hotel, but he is better suited for his present business.

J.T. BROWN

Our wagon-maker came to Meriden a little over three years ago. He worked at the carpenters trade the first year. Since then has worked at his trade in the rear of the blacksmith shop. He is a number one workman.

 

Photo courtesy of Meriden History

GEORGE W. POTTS

The lumberman, owned a fine farm at Grantville, which he sold and moved to this city and has been in lumber business ever since the 16th of April, 1891. He has been Sheriff of this county and is now Police Judge of this city.

ROBERT SMITH

Robert Smith and Gillully commenced business here in 1880 or 1881, bringing their drugs etc. from Oskaloosa mostly. They were in the Frisbie building until Wm. and Robt. built their store building, and Will, who had plenty of money, became a partner. Robt. now controls the business alone. There is no other drug shop in town.

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2012.

County Tractor and Grader Go Through Buck Creek Bridge

From the Oskaloosa Independent, June 6, 1930

Oscar Ross and John McNish, county road men, narrowly escaped serious injury Tuesday morning, when a county ten-ton Caterpillar tractor and attached road grader crashed through the Buck Creek bridge south of Oskaloosa four and a half miles.

Buck Creek

Ross was driving the tractor, and McNish was on the grader as they crossed the bridge. Near the middle of the 50-foot span the tractor suddenly smashed though the bridge, landing with the bridge floor in the bottom on the stream, 12 feet below.

The bridge approaches buckled into the air as the tractor went down and the grader wheels caught on the edge, keeping the grader from turning over onto the tractor, and undoubtedly saving both men from injury or death.

The bridge is 80 feet long, with 50-foot span and 15-foot approaches. County road and bridge men were called and by three o’clock Tuesday afternoon, the tractor and grader had been brought out of the stream, practically undamaged. The bridge was torn down, ready for a new structure, which will be put in at once.

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2002.

As One Saw “Oscaloosa” in 1858

Originally printed in The Kansas National Democrat, Lecompton, Kansas Territory, August 1858

Reprinted in The Oskaloosa Independent, January 23, 1941

Oskaloosa, Jefferson County, K.T., July 20, 1858

FRIEND BRIGGS — For the benefit of the traveling public, I wish to give through your paper, a short description of the shortest and best way route between Lecompton and Atchison. In the first place, it may be well to know, that there are two old routes; one running upon the West side of Grasshopper Creek, and crossing at the old Indian Mill ford, from thence across the Delaware Reserve, keeping the old Parkville trace, to the junction of it, with the Lawrence and Doniphan road near the town of Oscaloosa. The objections to this route, besides being circuitous, are the impossibility of fording the Grasshopper, a great part of the year, and about six miles of wet bottom (this year). The other route lies across the ferry, (with quite reasonable fare,) at the mouth of the Grasshopper, and keep the Leavenworth road several miles in the Kaw Bottom, crossing Ten Mile, or Stone House Creek and taking the left fork of the “Round Mound” upon the Lawrence and Doniphan road, following it to Oscaloosa. The latter has all the objections of the former, except fording the Grasshopper.

Now, “the route,” is at last surveyed, staked and marked, leaving the Leavenworth road at a point a quarter of a mile east of the ferry, running past the school house in the timber; and the very shortest possible cut across the prairie to a point of bluff which breaks down by successive steps to the bottom prairie. It was at this place the rocks were quarried for building the saw mills near the ferry, the grade up the bluff, though capable of improvement, is naturally very easy, and from this standpoint the Capital of Kansas is better seen at one view than from any other place, and the road continues on, through a pleasant grove keeping a “divide,” in nearly an air line to the junction of the old route, with the Lawrence and Doniphan roads before mentioned. It will be seen then, that this route lies between the others, with three miles less bottom, much less hill, and from three to four miles less distance, being much pleasanter to travel. From Oscaloosa, it keeps the old road, via Hickory Point.

One word about Oscaloosa. In my travels of the Territory, I have found people generally ignorant of the situation of this place, and as it is a real live two horse town it may be well for your readers to be posted. It is situated on the township line, between townships nine and ten, range nineteen, one half mile west of the dried up town of Jacksonville, as on the map, and embraces about 200 acres of as pretty rolling prairie, with excellent springs of water, as can be found in any country. It is not boasting to say it excels any and every town in Kansas, off the Kansas and Missouri rivers, and being strictly temperate, has outstripped all places of its age. It is at a point where many important roads intersect; well provided with water and timber and most excellent farming country, which is fast improving. There are two good saw mills in constant operations, with burs and bolts attached, for grinding all kinds of grain. — There are about 80 dwelling houses, and more going up, with a population of over 400. The citizens have just subscribed about $800 towards building a school house; the ground floor will be 30 by 40 feet, with posts 21 feet high. The quarter block, donated by Jesse Newell, that whole souled man, Uncle Jesse, is the finest location in town. The different religious denominations hold their regular stated meetings at this place.

This shows that towns can be built up without agents to puff and blow, and lie, by hawking shares all over the territory. I will challenge any one to show a town that has done more in twelve months, under like circumstances. There will be strong competition for the county seat, next October, and as Oscaloosa is three miles nearer the center of the county than any other place, I think its chances favorable. — It is 22 miles southwest of Leavenworth City on a direct line to Ft. Riley, by the new bridge built at Russell’s Mill across the Stranger, and another across the Grasshopper at Ozawkie.

Any one passing this way, will find an agreeable stopping place at the Kansas Hotel. This house has been refitted and furnished, it has also a good barn well supplied with hay and grain, and I will guarantee that man or beast will be well cared for, and kindly treated, the charges are moderate.

I had intended to speak of other points on the route first mentioned, but am admonished by the length of this letter to stop for the present, hoping you may make it convenient to call up this way soon.

            With great respect, I remain, Yours Truly, Jefferson

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2009.