For a Yearling, McLouth Takes the Cake.

From the Valley Falls Register, May 30, 1884

The fact has become more or less general that Kansas, especially the eastern part of the state had got over mushroom growth, a growing up in the night, as it were. But here we find in McLouth a fine well-built and enterprising little city of five hundred souls with its hotel, business blocks, elevators, etc., that but one year ago contained less than twenty-five inhabitants. Such is life and such are Kansas business men; this thing will never cease until Kansas becomes one of the greatest and most powerful states in the union.

The Register is booming and it heard McLouth was having a boom of its own so the Register man who takes delight in being around where the booming business is going on, concluded that McLouth was a pretty good place to strike, so he went down there last week and took a hand in the game.

There are no churches or schools there at present but a good graded school building will soon be built and two churches are, or are about to be contracted for and during the year places of worship will be completed.

The McLouth house M. McMaster proprietor is a new house pleasantly situated with the best sample room in the county, the tables are supplied with the best and Mr. McMaster will be found to be an agreeable and accommodating landlord.

The large and extensive farm implement house of Messrs Scott and Cresse is the principal trade feature of the town. These gentlemen deal largely in their line of goods and are known to be men of integrity and of first class business qualifications.

G.M. Woodhull [Woodhead] deals in furniture trunks pictures, he also is prepared to do undertaking. The people in this part of the county will find Mr. W. a fair square dealer and all goods in his line to be as represented; go and see him.

Delaware Grange cooperative store carries a fine line of general merchandise, their stock is new and clean and operated by gentlemen of experience and ability. This system of merchandising is doing a very successful business at this point.

Mr. A. Burt the popular and agreeable druggist located near the depot is having a nice run of trade. He carries a large stock of all the best medicines, drugs and toilet goods to be found in the town.

C. Moser carriage, blacksmithing. This gentleman is turning out some fine work. Mr. M. is a first-class workman, and the public may rely on his work both in style and finish.

—On The Wing

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in October 2007.

"A little history:

McLouth was founded in the 1880s. It was named for Amos McLouth, the original owner of the town site. The first post office in McLouth was established in May 1882.
We had a railroad that ran right through the middle of town. The tracks are the dividing point for the north side and south side of town. Look for the Historical sign showing where the split is at."

History of Boyle, Kansas

From The Winchester Star, October 9, 1942 (copied by Raymond Riley)

Boyle, Kansas, is located 25 miles west of Leavenworth, the highest point between Leavenworth and Valley Falls. The first post office was located one fourth mile east of the present office; and Mrs. Nancy Kendall was the post-mistress. The office was in the Kendall home, a log cabin, which stood for many years after the post office was established in the early 1860s.

On June 4, 1872, the first train arrived in Boyle with the first mail pouch containing letters and the Leavenworth Times, The Toledo Blade and an Atchison paper. By this time the post office had been moved to Mr. Jack Bates’ store, which had just started. Boyle now had its narrow gauge railroad, running thru a fine farming country in the northwest and east and timber and coal in the hills to the south; and its future looked very bright. Business was good, as lots of corn was shipped out and more hay was shipped out of Boyle than any point between Valley Falls and Leavenworth. Coal was shipped in and sold for ten cents per bushel or ten dollars and fifty cents per ton, on the track. The load limit of a coal car was 16,000 lbs. or 8 tons.

On August 14, 1875, the grasshoppers came. The sky was clouded with them and they left little behind them when they left. There was not much to ship out that year, but a daily train carried the mail, news and friendly good cheer. The two conductors on the run were Al Stokes and Jim Hall, and they were Al and Jim to the Boyle folk. If any of the boys were in Winchester they just got on the train with no cash and were never thrown off, but if the train was not traveling too fast they hopped off in their own yard, otherwise the train stopped in Boyle.

The last day of March, 1876, a great snow fell, drifting and blocking the railroad for two weeks. The store got low on staple goods and so the farmers that could, took their shovels and helped the railroaders clear the track. Mr. Bates had been helping at this work and had shoveled snow all morning, and in the afternoon he dropped dead with a heart attack. Six men, George Griffin, John Sowers, and Bob Kirkpatrick being among them, walked to Valley Falls and carried a casket out on their shoulders. The next day it took four horses hitched to a sled and several men to lay him to rest in Spring Grove cemetery.

There were several changes after Mr. Bates’ death, with different persons operating the store and post office, among them being John Boyle Sr. and John Boyle Jr., W.T. McClure, Frank Carr, Sam Heney, Newton Henry, a Mr. McCreary, and now Mr. C.A. McNeal and wife, who have been there forty years, and can sell you anything from a paper of pins to a gang plow. So Boyle still has the post office, general store and a good Methodist Church where Sunday School and church services are held every week. I always had respect for the Lord’s day and a community of generous people, and always enjoyed being at my hometown and birthplace.

John J. Ingalls once said, “God could have made a prettier place and a better place to live in, but I am sure he never did.”

—W.S. Fulton in the Valley Falls Vindicator

This story appeared in "Yesteryears" in October 2014.

Valley Falls Bank Robbery, 1890

The Valley Falls Register, Friday, March 7, 1890

From The Valley Falls New Era,
March 8, 1890

Just before six o’clock last Saturday afternoon John Coen, cashier in the bank of Hicks, Gephart & Co., pale and trembling rushed out of the front door of the bank and told passers by, as best he could, that the bank had been robbed of a large sum of money a few moments before. He first saw A. Harmon and L.M. Tutt. The startling news spread rapidly; guns and revolvers were in hand, and everybody soon on the lookout. But the fleeing robber escaped from sight by dodging three blocks east passing out at the stock yards. Darkness came on. Telegrams and telephone messages were sent in various directions giving notice of the robbery. Armed men were detailed to scour the country and board every out-going train. The hours wore on. Finally at midnight a dispatch from Meriden 15 miles distant, gave the information that a stranger, answering the description of the robber had stopped there and gone to bed in the hotel. He had told the night operator that he was a “slicker.” Suspicion was fastened upon the stranger. How to capture him was the question. The officials at Meriden asked for help from Valley Falls, and Joe Summerville and Hal Shire volunteered to do the work and left in a buggy at 1:30 p.m. They arrived at Meriden between four and five o’clock and consulting constable Garber and landlord Garber, of the American hotel, laid their plans to capture the bold bad man. And they planned wisely and safely. But would they get the right man! The robber had left word with the clerk to call him at 5 a.m. as he wished to go to Atchison on the morning train. He slept up stairs. At the appointed hour he was called by the clerk, arose promptly, dressed himself and walked down stairs into the office, where the brave deputies were stationed, armed with double barreled shot-guns, heavily loaded. The robber cheerily bade the clerk good morning closing the door behind him. At the same time he was ordered to throw up his hands and he saw, doubtless to his complete surprise, that he was covered by two sudden-death-dealing weapons. He haulted not nor held up his hands, coolly and silently walked toward the stove, crossing his arms and reaching to his side coat pockets for his pistols. Again he was ordered to throw up his hands and again he refused, hoping, perhaps, to un-nerve the deputies, or by a skillful maneuver draw his double action revolvers and stand an equal chance with his captors. To him it must have been an awful moment. To surrender would be to expose his guilt — not to do so he might escape. His time had come; the triggers were pulled, simultaneously, and the heavy report from two shot guns sounded the knell of his departure into eternity. The daring robber fell backwards, dead, his feet near the stove. He raised his head and shoulders slightly from the floor and sank back stilled in death. One full charge entered just above his heart and the other in part, his right shoulder. The body lay there until noon, when county attorney Gephart, and witnesses from here, arrived to attend a coroner’s inquest and examine the effects of the dead man. $2,812 was found on his person, all in his boots except $24, one package of $500 in bills, having the bank wrapper on it, endorsed 2-27-1890 – Coen; that is on Feb. 2nd [27th?] 1890, Coen counted that package. The other packages were recognized. The robber had $1,000 less than it was supposed he had, Coen in his excitement having over looked the package in the safe.

From The Valley Falls
New Era, March 8, 1890

A coroner’s inquest was held before Justice Fraser, and the following verdict was rendered. State of Kansas, Jefferson county. An inquisition holden at Meriden in Jefferson county, on the body of an unknown person there lying dead, by the jurors whose names are hereunto subscribed. The said jurors upon their oath, do say that the dead man is to us identified as that of the robber of the Hicks, Gephart & Co. bank at Valley Falls, Kan., on March 1, and killed by a gunshot wound while attempting to escape arrest at Meriden, Kan., in apprehending him as said robber.

We find that said killing was lawful and justifiable in every respect.

We further find that said death was not felonious.

In testimony whereof the said jurors have hereunto set their hands, the day and year here below written. March 2, 1890. Abraham Mosier, foreman; Robert Smith, George W. Potts, Nathan Glenn, George A. Smith and D.H. Fraser, justice of the peace, acting coroner.

The man was identified as the robber beyond all question.

The above is a diagram of the room in the hotel where the robber was shot.
Dark lines indicate the doors, dotted lines the windows.
D, door where he entered from stairway;
Os, where he fell;
S, the stove;
G, constable Garber;
B, Summerville’s position;
A, Shire’s, though on north porch, door open;
dash lines to the right, stairway.
The room is about 11x13 ft.

The robber had on a new short leather coat, lined with red flannel, dark checkered pants, knit jacket, wore boots and rubbers, and a felt hat. He was seen here Saturday morning wearing the same suit. When he committed the robbery he wore a black turban cap, brown denim coat and slate colored overalls, covering his face with a red handkerchief.

HOW IT WAS DONE

The “slicker” did his first work well; but fell down at last. He took breakfast Saturday morning at the Octagon hotel and afterwards he played checkers with young Smith. He gave his name as D. Smith. He wore then, the same suit he died in. Shortly after 10 a.m. he went to Coy, Hutchins & Co’s., clothing store and bought a 10 cent red Martha Washington pocket hand kerchief, displaying a small roll of bills and getting change for a $5. bill. He then visited each bank and took observations. He then visited several stores in town, his face covered with the red handkerchief. People who noticed him supposed he had the tooth-ache or mumps. About noon he hired a saddle horse at Harman’s livery stable, still disguised, saying he wished to ride to the country two miles to look at some cattle. He rode all about town and studied the surroundings, no doubt. About one o’clock he hitched the horse to a telephone pole in front of the Crosby’s bank, where it is presumed that he first intended to make a haul; but owing to the large number of farmers in town and a special meeting of a horse company in lawyer Hamble’s office, in the rear of the bank, he gave that up after waiting two hours for an opportunity, and returned the horse at Harmon’s suggestion. He probably intended to escape on the horse if he could rob that bank. 

He tried another plan, and entering Hicks, Gephart & Co’s. bank between four and five o’clock, called for and secured a $2.00 draft on New York. John Coen, the cashier, was alone, Dr. Gephart, being absent at Oklahoma. Claiming to be chilly and suffering with neuralgia he entreatingly asked permission to sit by the stove in the office and warm. This was granted, and he soon complained of growing very sick and enquired when the doctor might arrive. The cashier did not suspect his intentions though the robber lingered by the stove; but however told him he’d better go to some restaurant or other place to warm. The stranger pleaded to remain. Several parties saw him sitting in the rear office, but suspected nothing. Closing up time came on and the cashier proceeded to cast his balances and place the books, money, etc., in the vault. He closed the front door and had entered the vault to close the time safe, about this time growing rather nervous about the presence of the “sick” man. What could he mean? Suddenly his visitor appeared at the vault door with a revolver in each hand remarking, “That is a nice place you are in; a very secure place;” and John saw two pistols in his face. He was powerless to resist. The robber said, “please hand out $10,000.” John replied that he did not have that much. “Then,” said the robber, “give me what you have and put it in this sack.” John proceeded to do so. The robber then proposed to lock John in the vault, but relented and locked him in the bank telling him he would leave the back door key by a tree and warned him not to give the alarm until he got away. But the alarm was given all the same, soon as possible, after unbolting the front door. The robber fled south one block and dodged eastward three blocks to the stock yards where, it was learned afterwards, he lay hiding for some time, under the chute of the A.T&S.FE stock yards. There he removed his disguise, and left a black cap, denim coat, overalls and red handkerchief in the white cotton bag, where they were found by Jim Falls, Tuesday morning. The draft, also, was found there, torn and twisted. Who he is and whence he came has not yet been ascertained.

NOTES

• It is the boldest bank robbery on record.
• The $2.00 draft was in favor of S. Robertson, Ottawa, Ks.
• It was a lucky thing that Coen was not locked up in the vault.

  

  From The Valley Falls Register,
  March 7, 1890

• Art Mason went to Meriden Tuesday and got two or three negatives of the unknown man and made some good photos of him.
• Chief Gardner viewed the dead man Sunday to see if he was among his list of crooks.
• Among the robber’s effects was a silver watch bearing the initial R; a two-foot rule marked S.R.; a registered letter receipt with the names D. Smith and S. Robertson, Ottawa, Kans., to Burlington. He wore a home made shirt lined with part of a flour sack, branded Starre & Co., San Francisco.
• When people from abroad heard of the robbery many remarked, “The robber will be in great luck if he escapes. Valley Falls will shoot.”
• Charley Williams went to Meriden on a freight train, stopped off awhile and went to Topeka on the passenger, and the operator there was well prepared to suspicion the “slicker,” when he stopped in half an hour afterwards.
• Constable Stockwell went to Leavenworth via. the N.W. freight at midnight. He was at Police headquarters Sunday morning and learned by telephone of the death of the robber.
• Hal Butts and Dr. Swallow drove to Boyle and Winchester. They noticed a horse hitched at a farm house, knocked and inquired if a stranger was there. The four young gentlemen, playing “high five” were badly frightened.
• Deputy Fred Diehl was to go to Atchison on the morning train but the work was done before the time for the train.
• Will Posey drove to Oskaloosa and back by one a.m. and brought over attorney Gephart. They had a cold ride.
• “You won’t, will you” was the signal for the deputies to shoot, if the robber refused to hold up his hands and surrender.
• We understand that certain parties, at Meriden, are talking to the effect that the robber could have been taken alive. They should have tried the job and not allowed help to come from Valley Falls.
• The latest is that the body of the robber of the Valley Falls bank has been identified as that of *Sharon Robertson, a farmer living near Ottawa. He was one time P.M. at Homewood.

SECOND INQUEST

Monday and Tuesday it was reported that the robber had shown a large roll of bills in making purchases during the day before entering the bank, and as the bank had not shown conclusively how much they had lost, they had become owners of money not belonging to them. Also that the shooting had been done with unjustifiable haste, without warning, that the parties doing it had said they had come to kill him and had done it.

These ideas were set forth to the coroner in a petition, and he decided to hold a second inquest to decide firstly if the bank had returned to them more than they had lost, and secondly if the pursuers had given sufficient warning before shooting.

The jury at the second inquest consisted of four of the former jury with two new men.

The second inquest was held Thursday much to the annoyance and inconvenience of the Valley Falls people. Attorney Myers appeared in behalf of the Bank, and Coroner Balsly began examining the witnesses, E.M. Hutchins, J.W. Falls, ’Squire Frazier, John Coen, Constable Garber, Summerville and Shire. The examination of the two latter is said to have been quite severe causing some excitement. Their testimony is substantially given in these columns.

Mr. Sharrard of the Meriden State bank was next called as an expert to examine the balance book of the Valley Falls as to the amount as to amount of balance on hand March 1st and 3rd.

His report satisfied the jury that the bank was not in possession of any money not belonging to them.

The other personal effects were returned to the keeping of the coroner.

The jury after two hours deliberation brought in a verdict to the effect that the deceased came to his death by the hands of said Shire and Summerville, and that the killing was not felonious.

This story appeared in “Yesteryears” in April 2014.

*Shanon Robison was identified as a resident of Franklin County.

From The Ottawa Daily Republic, Saturday, March 8, 1890

The news was at first incredible but a Republican representative instituted a search which terminated in proving that it must be none other than Shanon Robison of this neighborhood. Because of the seriousness of the charge, pending further investigation, but little was said publicly about the unfortunate circumstances.

Shanon Robison is well known here, his father being an old resident of Homewood. About three years ago the old man bought Mr Guy’s stock and afterwards his son Shanon became postmaster. Since then they went to California but the son came back last August and went to live with his father-in-law, Mr Shaw on Sac Creek west and south of Princeton.

During the winter he made various excursions through the state ostensibly to purchase a farm. Very recently he negotiated with Mr Haigler of Harrison township, but had not completed the bargain Friday morning, 7^th instant. He said then he was going away for a day or two, and was expecting some money, after which he would make a final deal.

On Monday of last week, Feb 24, he and his wife, quite a young woman, probably eighteen years old, were in the city and made numerous calls on our merchants. Mr Forbes had sold him various bills of goods, which he always paid, but he acted so strangely that he did not care to trust him longer.

The sad events have astonished everybody, for all the parties connected are people of good standing. The surviving widow and child, as well as the other relatives, have the sympathy of a large number of friends.

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.