na A HISTORY —OF— Republic County, KANSAS, EMBRACING A FUI>L AND COMPLETE ACCOUNT OF ALL THE LEADING EVENTS IN ITS HISTORY, FROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT DOWN TO JUNE I/OL INCLUDING INDIAN DEPREDATIONS AND THE HARDSHIPS ENDURED BY THE PIONEER SETTLERS. ALSO THE TOPOGRAPHY OF THE COUNTY, INCLUDING SOIL, CLIMATE, TIMBER, STREAMS, WATER POWER, COAL, SALT, ETC., ETC. STATISTICS, SHOWING INCREASE IN WEALTH AND POPULATION, RAILROADS, CHURCHES, SCHOOLS, NEWS PAPERS, SECRET SOCIETIES, ETC. AND OTHER VALUABLE INFORMATION NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED. BY L O. SAVAGE. EELOIT, KANSAS. JONES & CHUBBIC, ART PRINTERS. 1901. PREFACE. A single county in the great state of Kansas occupies but an insignificant place on the map of the world, and its people and its story are comparatively unknown. Yet the grand river of national history is formed by the union of many rills of traditions and record, flowing from a thou- sand counties and states all over the land. The tracing of one of these rills to its source is the province of the pres- ent little volume. It is the aim of this work to collect and preserve some of the facts of the early settlement, subse- quent growth and development of one of the leading coun- ties of a young, yet great and glorious state. The families who were early on the ground, and whose members have contributed to make the county Avhat it is, are worthy of remembrance; and their difficulties and sorrows, labors and patriotism, should not be allowed to fall into oblivion. By a knowledge of these, the present generation will be instructed, and the future will be guided. All history, if properly written, is profitable; and there is not a country, or a city, or a hamlet, on the globe, whose history might not be more or less valuable to posterity. We trust this little volume will be the means of preserving from the empire of decay Si host of incidents, of recollections and of anecdotes relating to the land of pioneers and first settlers of the county, which, in the estimation of the historian and student of history, are of priceless value, but which other- wise would soon fade from the memories of the living. Still, a perfect and complete history of any county is one of the impossibilities, and this work may be incom- plete in many particulars. Nor, indeed, is it possible for it to be otherwise, as it is not permitted any man to attain perfection. Its regions lie beyond our reach. And now, after several months of laborious research and persistent toil, the History of Republic County, so far as I have to do with it, is completed, and it is my hope and belief that no subject of importance or general interest has been overlooked-or omitted, and even minor facts, when of sufficient note to be worthy of record, have been faithfully chronicled. I have endeavored to be fair and impartial, aiming in all cases to give credit where credit is due, and to criticise as little as possible consistent with the facts. I also claim to have prepared a work fully up to the stan- dard of my engagements, and to have fulfilled all the promises contained in my prospectus. In collecting the facts here presented I have drawn largely from my own observations extending over a period of thirty years' residence in the county, but am much in- debted and hereby acknowledge my obligations to many of the hardy pioneers and first settlers of the county for early incidents, recollections and other valuable information which could be obtained in no other manner, and especially to D. Y. Wilson, County Clerk, for his uniform kindness and courtesy in allowing me access at all times to the records of his office; also to J. C. Humphrey, late editor and proprietor of the Telescope, for valuable information of historic interest obtained from the old files of the paper, which I have at all times been privileged to consult. TABLE OF CONTENTS. INTRODUCTORY HISTORY. Page. CHAPTER 1.— The Pawnee Republic and The Old Flag i;{ CHAPTER II.— Republic County— Boundaries of The Coun- ty Defined— Early Settlements— First Schools— Karly Mail Facilities 32 CHAPTER III.— Indian Depredations -41 CHAPTER IV.— First Law Suit In The County— County Or- ganized—Officers Appointed— First Elections .')6 CHAPTER v.— Pebmanent Location of The County Seat And The Troubles Attending it 6:5 CHAPTER VI. -Soil— Climate— Streams— Timber— Limestone —Coal— Salt— Water Power— Rain Fall— Etc.— Etc. (ii) CHAPTER VII. — Wind Storms— Toronadoes and Cyclones "(i CHAPTER VIII.— Railroads 81 CHAPTER IX.— County Agricultural and Horticultural Societies ,S7 CHAPTER X.— Crops AND Farm Animals 9H CHAPTER XI.— County Indebtedness 102 CHAPTER Xl!.— District Court Twelfth .Judicial District. . 104 CHAPTER XIII.— Elections AND Election Returns 115 CHAPTER XIV.— County Buildings 132 CHAPTER XV.— Townships 141 CHAPTER XVI.— Cities AND Towns 17.5 CHAPTER XVII.— Churches l!)4 CHAPTER XVIll.-SCHOOLS 227 CHAPTER XIX.— Newspapers 233 CHAPTER XX.— Census Statistfcs and Assessed Valuation FOR UiOl 242 CHAPTER XXI.— Soldiers' Reunion, Organization, Etc 245 CHAPTER XXII.— CORN JUBILEE 2.")4 CHAPTER XXIII — Secret OR(iANiZATiONS 270 CHAPTER XXIV.— I 'atriotic Record 294 History of Republic County. IN-r ODoiCTORY HISTORY. EARLY EXPLORATIONS-LOUISIANA PURCHASE-KANSAS AND NE- BRASKA BILL— BORDER RUFFIAN WAR— TOPEKA AND WYAN- DOTTE CONSTITUTIONS— ADMISSION OF KANSAS AS A FREE STATE. The Spaniards were the first white people who made explorations here. As early as 1540 Coronado, a Spaniard, commanding an expedition which marched from Mexico northward in search of gold, silver and precious stones, explored the region of the Colorado, examined the country now known as New Mexico, and penetrated as far east as Kansas, which he named Quivira, and northward to the 40th degree of latitude, the northern boundary of the state. Finding no gold, which seems to have been the leading object of the expedition, he returned to Mexico, leaving Kansas early in the year 1542. On his return to Mexico he reported that the regions through which he passed were not fit to be colonized. This expedition made the first explorations in Kansas of which we have any record. Forty years later the Spaniards, after conquer- ing the natives, colonized New Mexico. In April, 1682, La Salle, a French discoverer, took formal possession of the mouth of the Mississippi river, for the King of France, and the country on the banks of the river received the name of Louisiana, in honor of King Louis XIV, then at the height of his power. Louisiana was understood to embrace all the country drained by the waters emptying either directly or indirectly into the Mississippi river. This made Kansas a possession of France. November 3. 1762, France cedes Loulsiaoa to Spain. This cession made Kansas Spanish. In 1769 the Spanish troops took possession of Louisiana, and the dominion of Spain begins, and continues until 1802, when, almost with- out consideration, she, by secret treaty, retrocedes Louisi- ana to France, and Kansas again becomes French territory. 6 History of Republic County. April 30, 1803, a treaty was concluded between the United States and the French Republic, by which France con- cedes Louisiana to the United States. The treaty was ne- gotiated, on the part of France, by Barbe-Marbois, the French minister, and by Robert R. Livingstone and James Monroe on the part of the United States, and Kansas be- comes the property of Uncle Sam. The above, briefl7 stated, is the chain of title. By this the United States acquired 1,160,577 square miles of territory, or 742,769,280 acres of land. The purchase price was fifteen millions of dollars, or a fraction over two cents per acre. This pur- chase was made during the administration of Thomas Jef- ferson, and was approved by the entire nation as an act of the greatest importance, as it doubled the area of the United States and placed the whole valley of the Missis- sippi within the territory of the Republic. Congress at once divided this great region into two territories, the territory of Orleans, corresponding to the present state of Louisiana, and the district of Louisiana, comprising the remainder of the purchase. On the 22d of May, 1854, the House passed tbe Kansas-Nebraska bill, providing for the organization of the territories of Kansas and Nebraska. The Senate passed the same bill on the 24th, and it was signed by President Pierce on the 30th. The passage of this act opened the door to a bloody and bitter conflict in Kansas between slavery and free labor, which continued with almost unabated fury until the admission of Kansas into the Union as a free state. On the 29th of June, 1854, Andrew H. Reeder, of Pennsylvania, was appointed by President Pierce Governor of Kansas, and November 29 of the same year an election was held for choosing a delegate to Congress, which resulted in the election of J. W. Whit- field, the pro-slavery candidate, he receiving 2,258 votes to 574 votes for free state candidates. Whitfield took his seat and held it until March 3, 1855, the close of the 33d Con- gress. He was re-elected October 1, 1855, receiving 2,721 votes, the free state men not voting. The first election History of Republic County. 7 for members of the Territorial Legislature was held by districts, March 30, 1H55, thirteen members of the Coun- cil and twenty-six members of the House, resulting in the choice of the pro-slavery candidates by large majorities. This Legislature convened, by order of the Governor, at Pawnee, near \Pt. Riley, nearly one hundred miles from the border, and supposed to be far enough away to be free from intimidation by the Missourians. Pawnee was a re- tired and quiet place, and the members, no doubt, fre- quently called to mind that passage of Scripture which reads something like this : "The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but this Kansas Legislature has not a peg to hang its hat on. " The executive office was also established at Pawnee. On the 6th of July both branches of the Legislature passed, over the Governor's veto, an act removing the seat of government from Pawnee to the Shawnee Manual Labor School, in Johnson county, near the Missouri border. August 8th, the Legislature, in joint session, voted to establish the permanent seat of govern- ment at Lecompton. Upon re-assembling at Shawnee the Legislature proceeded to adopt the laws of Missouri as the laws of Kansas, and to frame a series of laws designedly cruel and oppressive to the free state men. Nearly all the acts of this Legislature took effect as soon as passed. They made a volume of 1,058 pages, and were commonly called the "Bogus Laws." Under these laws none but pro-slav- ery men could hold office, and every officer, whether elected or appointed, was compelled to take an oath to support the Fugitive Slave Law. This was also the oath administered to every attorney admitted to practice in the courts. Under these laws any person found with a New York Tribune in his pocket was deemed guilty of felony, the punishment being imprisonment at hard labor for two years. These laws were vetoed by Governor Reeder, but passed by a nearly unanimous vote over his head. Governor Reeder, being odious to the pro-slavery party and to the adminis- tration at Washington, was removed August 16 and Wilson 8 History of Republic County. Shannon, of Ohio, appointed in his stead. In the mean- time the free soil settlers had increased so rapidly that they outnumbered the pro slavery settlers. They now felt themselves strong enough to resist the outrages of the Missourians, and accordingly, on the 5th of Septem- ber, 1855, held a convention at Big Springs, formally or- ganized the Free State party, and adopted a platform, in which they distinctly and emphatically repudiated the government that had been forced upon them by men who were not residents of the territory. They announced their intention not to take part in the election of a dele- gate to Congress, which the territorial authorities had ordered to be held on the first of October, and called upon the actual residents of the territory to send delegates to a convention to be held at Topeka on the 19th of September. This convention ordered an election to be held for the pur- pose of choosing a delegate to Congress. On the 23d of October the convention adopted a Free State constitution, known as the Topeka constitution. An election for state ofticers, under this constitution, was held January 15, 1856, and Charles Robinson was chosen Governor, receiv- ing 1,296 votes, the pro-slavery party not voting. The struggle for the possession of the territory now passed out of politics. The outrages of the pro slavery men had forced the free state men into an attitude of direct and uncompromising resistance, and after the action of the latter at Topeka, the struggle, which had hitherto been comparatively bloodless, changed its character, and be- came an open and sanguinary war between the two parties, in which the pro-slavery men were the aggressors. Bands of men, armed and regularly organized into companies and regiments, came into the territory from South Carolina, Georgia and the extreme southern states, with the avowed design of making Kansas a slave-holding state at all hazards. May 21st, 1856, under the pretext of aiding the United States Marshal to serve certain processes upon the citi- History of Republic County. 9 zens of Lawrence, they captured and sacked that town, burned several houses, killed several of its citizens and inflicted a property loss upon it amounting to |il50,000. Prom this time the war went on in a series of desultory but bloody encounters, in nearly all of which John Brown took an active and prominent part, some of which assumed the proportions of battles. The Free State Legislature met at Topeka, March 4th, received the message of Gov- ernor Robinson, appointed three commissioners to pre- pare a code of laws, elected James H. Lane and Andrew H. Reeder United States Senators, prepared a memorial to Congress asking admission into the Union under the Topeka constitution, and adjourned to meet July 4th, hav- ing been in session four days. This memorial was pre- sented to Congress by Lewis Cass, of Michigan, in the Senate, and by Representative Mace, of Indiana, in the House. July 3d, the House passed Grow's bill for the ad- mission of Kansas under the Topeka constitution, but the Senate, being pro-slavery, refused to concur. The Free State Legislature met at Topeka, July 4th, pursuant to adjournment. Col. Sumner, of the First Cavalry, appears in the House, and then in the Senate, and orders each body to disperse. He was acting under orders from Act- ing Governor Woodson and President Pierce. The Legis- lature obeys the order. Governor Shannon received notice of his removal August 2 1st, and Acting Governor Woodson calls out the militia and declares the territory in a state of open insurrection and rebellion. This was the darkest day during the whole struggle for the Free State men, and large numbers of them left Kansas. January 6th, 1857, the Free State Legislature again met at Topeka. Governor Robinson and Lieutenant Gov- ernor Roberts are absent, and there is no quorum. Re- assembled on the 8th with quorum pj-esent, organize and appoint a committee to again memorialize Congress to ad- mit Kansas under the Topeka constitution. After adjourn- ment a dozen or more of the members were arrested by a 10 History of Republic County. United States marshal and sent as prisoners toTecumseh. Met again on the 8th without presiding officers and with- out quorum, the president of the Senate and the speaker of the House being prisoners at Tecumseh It appears to have been the tactics of the pro-slavery party, backed by the administration at Washington, to arrest a sufficient number of members to break a quorum, and thus prevent legislation. Late in July John W. Geary was appointed Governor in place of Wilson Shannon, removed. The sec- ond session of the Territorial Legislature met at Lecomp- ton, January 12th, 1857, to enact more "bogus laws." The Free State men had no part in the election of this House, and the whole Legislature remained pro-slavery. All bills vetoed by Governor Geary were promptly passed over his head, in accordance with a secret agreement at the com- mencement of the session. Governor Geary exerted him- self honestly to restore peace, freedom of speech and of the press, and asked the repeal of many of the bogus laws; but finding himself powerless, and fearing assassination from the pro-slavery party, he secretly left Kansas, March 10th, as Governor Reeder had done before him. President Buchanan appointed as successor to Gover- nor Geary, Robert J. Walker, of Mississippi, a man of emi- nence and ability, who sincerely desired to effect a settle- ment of the quarrel, and who succeeded in inducing the Free State party to vote, at the coming election, for mem- bers of the Territorial Legislature and a delegate to Con- gress, assuring the people that the election should be fair and free. The election was held October 5th, 1857, which resulted in the election of a large majority of Free State men to the Legislature, and of M. J. Parrott, Free State candidate for delegate to Congress, by a majority of over 4,000. This was the first free and fair election held in the territory. Governor Walker resigned December 17th, and James W. Denver was appointed in his stead. Denver acted as Governor until October, 1858, when he in turn re- signed, and Samuel Medary, of Ohio, was appointed No- History of Republic County. 11 vember 19th, 1858, and who continued in office until Janu- ary, 1861, and was the Democratic candidate for Governor under the Wyandotte constitution, against Charles Robin- son, December 6th, 1859, but was defeated by over 2,500 votes. In January, 1859, the civil strife having partially sub- sided in the territory, and the Free State men having a majority in the Legislature, a convention was summoned at Wyandotte. It met in July and adopted a • Fr^-e State constitution, which was submitted to the people Oc- tober 4th and ratified by a majority of 5,000. The Wyan- dotte constitution was then laid before Congress, and a bill admitting Kansas into the Union passed the House early in 1860. The Senate, however, failed to act upon the bill. At the next session the measure was revived, and on the 29th of January, 1861, the opposition of the south having ceased by reason of the withdrawal of a large number of the southern Representatives and Senators from Con- gress, Kansas was admitted into the Union as a free state, adopting as her motto, "Ad astra per aspera "^To the stars through difficulties. List of Territorial Governors of Kansas and the term of office of each: Andrew H. Reeder, of Pennsylvania, from October 7, 1854, to August 16, 1855. Daniel Woodson, of Virginia, Secretary and Acting Gover- nor from August 16 to September 7, 1855; June 24 to July 7, 1356; August 18 to September 9, 1856, and March 12 to April 16, 1857. Wilson Shannon, of Ohio, from September 7, 1855, to Au- gust 18, 1856. John W. Geary, of Pennsylvania, from September 9, 1856, to March 12, 1857. Frederick P. Stanton, of Tennessee^ Secretary and Acting Governor from November 16 to December 21, 1857. Robert J. Walker, of Mississippi, from May 27 to Novem- ber 16, 1857. 12 History of Republic County. James W. Denver, of California, Secretary and Acting Governor from December 21, 1857, to May 12, 1858, when he was appointed Governor. Hugh S. Walsh, born in New Winsor, Orange county, N. Y. ; came to Kansas from Alabama in April, 1857; was Secretary and Acting Governor from October 10 to December 17, 1858. Samuel Medary, of Ohio, from December 18, 1858, to De- cember 17, 1860. George M. Beebe, born at New Vernon, N. Y. ; came to Kansas in 1859; Secretary and Acting Governor from December 17, 1860, to February 9, 1861. Governors of Kansas since its admission as a state : Charles Robinson, elected December 6, 1859; sworn into office February 9. 1861. Thomas Carney, elected November, 1862. S. J. Crawford, elected November, 1864; was re-elected November, 1866; resigned November 4, 1868, to take command of 19th Regiment. Kansas Volunteer Cavalry. Nehimiah Green, Acting Governor after the resignation of Governor Crawford. James M. Harvey, elected November 3, 1868. Served two terms. Thomas A. Osborn, elected November 5, 1872. Served two terms. Geo. T. Anthony, elected November 7, 1876. John P. St. John, elected November 5, 1878. Served two terms. George W. Glick, elected November 7, 1882. John A. Martin, elected Nov. 4, 1884. Served two terms. Lyman U. Humphrey, elected November 6, 1888. Served two terms. Loren250 D. Lewelling, elected November 8, 1892. Edmund N. Morrill, elected November 6, 1894. John W. Leedy, elected November 3, 1896. William E. Stanley, elected November 8, 1898. Re-elected November, 1900. History of Republic County. 13 CHAPTER I. THE PAWNEE REPUBLIC AND THE OLD FLAG. On the 15th day of July, 1806, Zebulon M. Pike, a young army officer, being at that time only twenty-seven years of age, left Belle Fontaine, a small town near the mouth of the Missouri river, to make explorations in our newly acquired territory known as the Louisiana pur- chase. The party consisted of twenty-three white men, and a party of fifty -one Indians of the Osage and Pawnee tribes, who had been redeemed from captivity among the Pottawatomies. These he was to take back to their friends on the head-waters of the Osage river, on the border of what is now Kansas. The safe delivery of this charge at the point of destination, seems to have been the primary object of the expedition. This being accomplished, he was to push on to the seat of government of the Pawnee Republic and establish as far as possible friendly relations and a good understanding between the various Indian tribes as well as to cultivate the friendship of all of them towards the government of the United States. He was also instructed "to remark particularly upon the geographical structure, the natural history and popula- tion of the country through which he passed, taking es- pecial care to collect and preserve specimens of every- thing curious in the mineral and botanical worlds, which can be preserved and are portable." This expedition was planned in April, 1806, on the return of Lieut. Pike from a successful tour of discovery and exploration to the head-waters of the Mississippi. He was chosen to con- duct these expeditions on account of his great proficiency in mathematics, astronomy and the languages. Capt. Pike camped on White Rock creek on the eve- ning of September 24th, and the following day he entered 14 History of Republic County. the Pawnee village, the exact location of which has only recently been established, different historians locating it at different points, some placing it at, or near the present site of Scandia, others at Red Cloud, Nebr., but all agree- ing that it was located in the valley of the Republican. During the year 1896 researches were made which estab- lished beyond a reasonable doubt the site of this historic village, locating it on section 3, * in township 2 south, range 5 west, known as White Rock township. This fact is established by a careful study of the route of Pike's travels, he being easily traced into Republic county and by many relics consisting of broken mills, pottery, pipes of red pipe stone, dressed and undressed flints and many other articles of Indian workmanship, also many large circular excavations, within what was once a wall of earth works, an adjoining cemetery, all distinguishing charact- eristics of the permanent villages of the Indian tribes of the plains. At what time this village was established is only a matter of conjecture. All the information the Paw- nees themselves can give is that it was a long time ago. Neither is there any record as to when it was abandoned, but probably not later than 1833 as in that year the Paw- nees, by treaty surrendered all their possessions south of the Platte river, but for a long time thereafter con- tinued to hunt throughout their ancient hunting grounds on the plains, their hunting parties frequently visiting the White Rock valley after its settlement by white men. September 29th Capt. Pike held a grand council with the Pawnees at which a large number of warriors were present. The Spanish flag was floating from a pole in front of the head chief's lodge, a large part}'^ of Spanish troops having passed this way but a short time previous. Pike, although having but twenty men under his com- * The N. E. '4 of section 3, town 2, range 5, on which was located the Paw- nee Indian village, was pre-enipted in 1H71 by John Johnson, known by the early settlers as White Horse Johnson to distinguish him from other Johnsons in the same neighborhood, as he was the owner of a fine team of white horses. Residence of George Johnson, White J lock Township. History of Republic County. 15 mand, ordered the Spanish flag hauled down, and the American flag run up to which demand the grand chief, Characterish, demurred. Here Pike's tact and ingenuity were called into play and he applied the art of persuasion with so great effect that the chief permitted the flag to be taken down and the stars and stripes hoisted in its place with the promise that the Spanish flag should not again be displayed in the village during Capt. Pike's stay. It is thus established beyond a reasonable doubt that the stars and stripes first floated to the breeze in Republic county, on September 29, 1806, this event being now annually commemorated by the Pawnee Republic Historical So- ciety. (In a former edition of this history it was stated the flag was first raised at Scandia, September 25, 1806, but was given as traditional only and from the best in- formation then obtainable). At a meeting of the citizens of White Rock and Big Bend township held at the Pawnee school house, January 4, 1896, Col. Thomas Shuler was chosen chairman, and James Lacey, secretary. At this meeting it was decided to effect a permanent organization which was accordingly done. The name adopted was '-The Pawnee Republic Historical Society," and the first officers elected were. Col. Shuler, president; Mrs. George Johnson, vice-pres- ident; Hon. Gomer T. Davies, secretary; Mrs. W. R. Charles, assistant secretary and Geo. Johnson, treasurer. An investigating committee was appointed at this meeting consisting of E. D. Haney, Mrs. E. A. Johnson, J. C. Price, Dr. J. W. Mcintosh and Major C. W. Gulick. This committee visited Red Cloud, Nebr., but found nothing in support of the claim that the Pawnee village was located at that point, the theory that at or near Scandia was the place having already been abandoned. The valley of the Republican has been visited and carefully scrutinized by members of this committee and officers of the society for many miles up and down, finding no other traces of per- manent Indian occupancy at all comparable with the well 16 History of Republic County. defined and unmistakable evidences which exist at this point, and so reported to the society. The next step was to get the State Historical Society interested in this investigation which was done by laying before it a large amount of accumulated evidence at its annual meeting in January, 1896, at which time the fol- lowing committee was appointed by Gov. Morrill, presi- dent of the society, viz: The late Judge P. G. Adams, at that time secretary of the state society; the late Noble L. Prentis, author of "Pike of Pike's Peak,'' and Prof. 1^. B. Cowgill, of the Kansas Farmer, with instructions to inves- tigate and make a complete and exhaustive report to the State Historical Society at its annual meeting in January, 1897. Accordingly Judge Adams and Professor Cowgill visited the site on July 15, 1896, Mr. Prentis being dis- abled by an accident which made it impossible for him to visit the field. This committee reported as directed, an advance copy being furnished the Pawnee society at the request of Mrs. Johnson, its vice president, as follows: ToPEKA, Kansas, August 22, 1896. To Hon. Thomas Shuler, President Pawnee Republic Historical Soc'ety, White Kock, Kansas. Dear Sir: — In conformity to the wishes expressed by your respected vice-president, Mrs. George Johnson, and in compliance with our duty in the premises, the un- dersigned, members of the committee appointed by the Kansas State Historical Society at its annual meeting in January last, to co-operate with your society in an effort to identify the location of the village of the Pawnee Indian Republic visited by Lieut. Z. M. Pike in 1806, hereby give you the conclusion arrived at by us as the result of our recent visit to the ancient village site in White Rock town- ship, and our inspection of the same, accompanied by offi- cers and members of your society. In giving you the conclusion to which we have arrived in the matter it is proper that we should say that in the first place we have History of Republic County. 17 been guided by the narrative of Lieut. Pike, giving as it does an account of his journey to and from the village, with such description as the narrative contains; this, taken in connection with such an account as is given by Lieut. Wilkinson, who accompanied the explorer. These descriptions, though meager and somewhat conflicting, by careful examination have been of service. Next we take into consideration the local information on the subject derived from the fact that the entire valley of "^he Republican and the adjacent country of the region, above and below, has for many years been settled up and brought into cultivation, and that your society has made diligent inquiry among all the inhabitants and, though your committee, has visited the only other locality be- lieved by any of the inhabitants to have ever been the site of an Indian village; and that at that place there had been seen at one time merely slight evidences of a temporary Indian camp; no remains of a permanent Indian village. In regard to the inquiries and investigations made by you, it is of course out of our power to do otherwise than rely upon your information. In this we place implicit confidence. The final consideration influencing us has been the markings at the place which we visited with you and which clearly exhibits evidence that there was at a time as remote as Pike's visit, an Indian village of the char- acter described by him. In respect to this the evidences are quite satisfac- tory. They conform to those well known artificial fea- tures which have identified sites of other ancient villages of the Indians of the plains country. There are the clearly marked remains of a surround- ing wall, and within the bounds of the wall circular ridges marking the situations of the numerous permanent lodges. There is the debris left from the destruction of these habitations. All these evidences are distinct and unmistakable. From these considerations we have ar- 18 History of Republic County. rived at the conclusion that the spot pointed out to us by your society is the identical site of the village in question. There is but a bare possibility that it can be otherwise. We beg to give you our sincere thanks for the cour- tesies extended to us during our visit to the now rich and fruitful region ushered into history ninety years ago; then an uncultivated wilderness, now one of the most productive portions of Kansas, bearing all the evidences of thrift and culture among the people. The existence of your society organized for the laudable object of promot- ing an important branch of information respecting the history of the state and country, is in all respects highly praiseworthy, and should receive due consideration from the Kansas State Historical Society, which we have the honor to represent. With great respect. Yours truly, F. G. Adams. E. B. COWGILL. The Pawnee Jlepublic Historical Society holds its reg- ular annual meetings at the Pawnee school house near the village site, on the 29th of September, this being the anniver- sary of the hoistingof the American flag in Republic county, and special meetings whenever deemed necessary, but the annual celebrations and flag raisings are held on the town site, one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the great state of Kansas. The present officers of the society are: J. C. Price, president; Mrs. John Moore, sec- retary, and George Johnson, treasurer The site of the village, embracing eleven acres was deeded by Mrs. Johnson to the state, conditioned that an appropriation be made by the legislature for the purpose of suitably marking this place as one of the leading his- toric spots of Kansas. The importance of doing this was strongly presented to the legislature by the Pawnee Re- public Historical Society in which it was ably assisted by the Daughters of the Revolution. Accordingly Senator R. B. Ward introduced the fol- View near the Pawnee Indian V^illage. Road leaving- the Grove at foot of the hill. History of Republic County. 19 lowing bill January 14, 1901, and ably championed it to final passage February 11th; yeas 28, nays none, absent or not voting 12. Hon. W. H. Woodward, representing Repub- lic county, introduced the same bill in the House, where it met with some opposition, being at one time stricken from the calendar, but it finally passed that body without a dis- senting vote and was approved by the governor February 11, 1901: SESSION LAWS OF KANSAS, 1901. CHAPTER 40. PIKE'S PAWNEE INDIAN VILLAGE. An act accepting title to the site of Pike's Pawnee Indian village, in Republic county, Kansas, making appropri- ation for fencing and suitably marking the said prem- ises, and placing the same under the care and control of the Kansas State Historical Society. Whereas, Elizabeth A. Johnson and George Johnson, of of White Rock, Republic county. Kansas, have, by their joint deed of general warranty, tendered as a gift to the state of Kansas a clear and unencumbered title to the following described real estate situated in Republic county, Kansas, which deed is now held in escrow by the secretary of the Kansas State Historical Society, to wit : Beginning at a point six chains west of the southeast corner of the north- east quarter of section 3, township 2, south of range 5 west; thence west sixteen chains, thence north seven chains, thence east sixteen chains, thence south seven chains to the place of beginning, containing eleven and two-tenths acres, more or less, being in the site of Pike's Pawnee Indian village, which conveyance of title is to be made upon condition that within four years from the 29th day of March, 1899, the state of Kansas shall accept the title to said premises so tendered, and shall cause the said premises to be fenced and suitably marked to commemo- rate the first raising of the American flag on Kansas terri- tory; therefore, Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Kansas: Section 1. That the title to the premises aforesaid and described as follows, to wit : Beginning at a point six 20 History of Republic County. chains west of the southeast corner of the northeast quar- ter of section 3, township 2, south of range 5 west; thence west sixteen chains, thence north seven chains, thence east sixteen chains, thence south seven chains to the place of beginning, containing eleven and two-tenths acres, more or less, being the site of Pike's Pawnee Indian village, ten- dered as a gift to the state of Kansas by Elizabeth A. John- son and George Johnson, by their deed of general war- ranty, dated March 29, 1899, be and the same is hereby accepted by and on behalf of the state of Kansas ; pro- vided, however, that the title to said promises so tendered and accepted shall revert to the said donors in the event the state shall fail to fence and mark said premises as hereinafter provided within four years from the 29th day of March, 1899. Sec. 2. That upon the vesting of the title to said premises in the state of Kansas, under the provisions of this act, the Kansas State Historical Society shall have the care and control of said premises for and on behalf of the state, and shall fence the said premises and suitably mark the same by monument or otherwise, to commemorate the first raising of the American flag on Kansas territory. Sec. 3. That the sum of three thousand dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be and the same is hereby appropriated out of any money in the state treas- ury not otherwise appropriated, to fence and suitably mark said premises by monument or otherwise, as herein- before provided, the money so expended to be paid upon warrants of the State Auditor, allowed and drawn upon vouchers approved by the secretary of the Kansas State Historical Society. Sec. 4. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after its publication in the statute book. Approved February 14, 1901. The corner stone of the monument provided for in the above act was laid with impressive ceremonies by the Grand Lodge, A. P. and A. M., under the auspices of Belleville Lodge, No. 129, July 4, 1901, and at which time and place other patriotic exercises were held. Hon. George W. Martin, secretary of the State Historical So- ciety, called the assembled multitude to order and intro- duced Senator R. B. Ward as president of the day, who in History of Republic County. 21 a few patriotic and well-timed remarks introduced J. C. Price, president of the Pawnee Historical Society, who in the name of the society and in behalf of Mrs. Johnson for- mally presented to Governor Stanley a deed to the eleven acres of land comprising the site of the Pawnee village. Mr. Price said: Were it possible byany system of investigation to find out the history of all the peoples who have occupied this country since the beginning of lime, men would stand ready for the undertaking. Were it possible to trace an immigration from the north through British America to our lands of gold and ice across Bering straits, south through Asia to some un- known ''Garden of Eden" as the original home of our In- dian predecessors, men and means would not be wanting in the enterprise. But the origin of these people is a closed book, and no one is found who can break the seal thereof, and we are defrauded of an heritage to which we are justly entitled. History, like nature, has its hill-tops, and though our vision may be shaded by a misty past, much remains with- in the range of our observation and research which we may classify, record and bequeath to those who come after us as a goodly heritage. This testament should convey not only the full comple- ment of that which we have received, but increased and augmented by the results of our inquiry, our studies and observation. We meet today upon a natural promontory— the pano- rama presented is many miles in extent in all directions — and yet the prominence of this place is not its elevation above the surrounding country, but that it occupies a prominent place, and I might say the initial point in our state's history. We meet on this historic spot, this hall of fame, to place a tablet to the memory of one of our early heroes, and to dedicate these grounds to the cause of freedom, to which he gave his young life. To perpetuate the record of one of the greatest peaceful victories of our history, a vic- tory only possible by the rare judgment, tact and person- ality of the gallant young officer, Zebulon M. Pike. History places him on these grounds, over which 22 History of Republic County. floated the flag of one of the greatest nations of the world, surrounded by hundreds of warriors who recognized the sovereignty of that flag, while he with a little band of travel-stained and weary men demanded the lowering of the flag of Spain and substituting the Stars and Stripes. Incredible as it may seem, this demand was complied with, and on September 29, 1806, Kansas breezes were called upon for the last time to unfurl that flag, which has floated over more of misery, more of oppression, more of treach- ery, than any emblem ever designed by man. We meet to transfer to this great commonwealth these grounds where our children and our children's children may gather to learn lessons of loyalty, patriot- ism and devotion to the principles which have made us the foremost nation on the globe. These grounds twice hallowed, hallowed by being the home of the Republican Pawnees, a people whose identity is perpetual in the name of this county, the river that flows at the foot of these bluffs, and the name of yonder village, a people who when they had accepted the sover- eignty of the United States were always loyal to the "Great White Father" in Washington. IOWA SETS A PACE. Our sister state, Iowa, has just dedicated a m^onument to the memory of Sergeant Floyd of the Lewis and Clarke expedition, at the cost of $60,000, of which the general government contributed $5,000. We believe that this sum was wisely and "justly expended and leads us to anticipate a substantial appropriation for preserving these grounds. The organization of the Pawnee Republic Historical Society was the inception of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Johnson, and to their devotion to its objects is due whatever of suc- cess may be attained. They have been tireless in conse- cration of time and means for the necessary investiga- tions to establish the facts in connection with this inter- esting chapter of state and national history. May the time soon come when they will be appropri- ately remembered for the unselfish labor which they have devoted to this cause of preserving whatsoever remains of the history of our predecessor, the Republican Pawnees, for honoring and preserving the spot upon which Ameri- can dominion was first enforced in the disputed territory of the Louisiana Purchase. History of Republic County. 23 It has been the purpose of our society to arrive at ex- act truths in our examination of these historic grounds, and the deeds here enacted which have made them of national as well as local interest. And when we had ex- hausted our own resources, the results were turned over to the State Historical Society, which with its better facilities has carried on the labors to the successful ter- mination. We will ever hold in gfrateful remembrance our late Secretary Judj^e Adams for the interest and assistance which he rendered our local society. Our only hope of retaining these grounds in their present position is the fact that Geo. Martin can not have them moved to Topeka, labeled and placed on the shelf in the new historical rooms. And now I am imiDowered as the representative of the Pawnee Republic Historical Society, and through the gen- erosity of Elizabeth A. Johnson, to deliver to your ex- cellency, the representative of our great state, this inden- ture, conveying the title in fee of these grounds. To which the Governor responded as follows : In the early days of the century that has just closed, at this spot. Lieutenant Pike hauled down the Spanish flag, which up to that time had been the emblem of au- thority to the savage tribes that peopled these plains, and erected in its stead the stars and stripes. Since that time the flag has had a memorable history, and recently there has been a great discussion of the question whether the constitution followed the flag. Be that as it may, many things have followed the flag since Lieutenant Pike planted it here as a mark of American sovereignty over this terri- tory . Then the United States was composed of eighteen states and twenty-four territories, with a population of six million people. Now it is composed of forty -five states and six territories, counting Alaska and Hawaii and excluding Porto Rico and the Phihppines, with a population of sev- enty-eight millions. The planting of the American flag here closely fol- lowed the Louisiana purchase and marked the commence- ment of our internal improvements and the beginning of steamboat navigation. Now the great Louisiana purchase embraces the richest part of our domain; our internal im- provements have grown to immense proportions, and the 24 History of Republic Countv. protection of American commerce is becoming one of the pressing questions of the hour. Then Uncle Sam was a modest youth, unable to command any considerable share of respect or attention from foreign nations. Now he is a mature and very vigorous gentleman and commands the respect of the whole world. Then we were a debtor nation and the ledger balance was always on the wrong side. Now we are a creditor nation and the trade balance is largely in our favor. About the time that Lieutenant Pike raised the Ameri- can flag here our imports were $130,000,000, our exports $100,000,000, showing a balance against us of $30,000,000, or 30 per cent of our entire imports. Now our exports are more than one and one-half billion dollars, our imports less than a billion, leaving a balance in our favor of more than $500,000,000, making the great balance on the credit side of the ledger one-half as great as the entire imports. In a single century we have grown from weakness to strength; from poverty to wealth; from a debtor to a cred- itor nation. The American flag is upon all seas, Ameri- can products and the American merchant in all markets, and the United States enters upon the new century as a great world power. But marvelous as has been the development of the United States, the development of Kansas has been more remarkable. For more than half a century after the flag was planted here the territory which now comprises our state was known by travelers and geographers alike as a great desert. The development of that desert land into fruitful fields; the substitution of an energetic, thrifty people for savage tribes; the displacement of the wild herds that roamed in countless numbers over these prai- ries by the Shorthorn and the Hereford; the building of homes, school houses and churches where formerly the wigwam stood, has been marvelous, and the history of that wonderful growth reads like a fairy tale. Forty years ago Kansas was admitted into the Union as a state. It had scarcely more than a hundred thousand people, but these have grown and increased until we have within our borders one and a half million people, as devoted to home and law and order and good government and tem- perance as any people that were ever brought together. We have developed along the lines of agriculture until in 1900 and 1901, in two succeeding harvests, Kansas pro- History of Republic County. 25 duced the astounding and unequaled yield of more than 150,000,000 bushels of wheat. Last year we had in Kansas more than 6,000,000 head of live stock, or more than four head for every unit of our population. We have realized the dreams of the theorists and have a horse for every family and a cow for every individual in the state, with plenty of swine and sheep thrown in for good measure. We have grown from the crude business methods where pelts and robes were used as mediums of exchange to a banking system represented by over five hundred banks, with an aggregate deposit of nearly seventy million dol- lars, or nearly fifty dollars for every unit of our popula- tion. The deposits of our state and private banks have in- creased in a single year over 30 per cent. To carry the products of our pastures and fields to the market we have nearly nine thousand miles of railway. If built in parallel lines equi-distant from each other, it would make twenty lines of railroad traversing the state from east to west. But it is not in our rich harvests, our bursting gran- aries, our increasing bank deposits or our great system of railways that the state has made its greatest advancement. There was not a school house in Kansas for half a century after Pike raised the flag here. There are now more than nine thousand in the state. There are eleven thousand school teachers and an enrollment in our schools of four hundred thousand pupils. This shows that more than one-fourth of the population are enrolled in the common schools, and that one out of every one hundred and thirty of our population is a school teacher. That our schools are efficient is shown by the fact that Kansas has a smaller per cent of illiteracy than any state in the Union. One of the strongest influences in this wonderful de- velopment has been the public press. There are now pub- lished in Kansas eight hundred and thirty-eight papers and other periodicals. These go into our homes and afford the people means of keeping in touch with all the topics of the day. The influence of the schools and homes and newspapers had a forcible illustration during the Spanish-American war, when in four full Kansas regiments, enlisted from all parts of the state, there was not a single soldier who could not write a legible hand. A remarkable thing in all of this wonderful development is that it has taken place within the space of a single life. 26 History of Republic County. Many of the men who moulded and shaped public sen- timent in Kansas in the early days are moulding and shap- ing public sentiment still. Of the strong coterie of news- pajjer men who directed the current and trend of popular sentiment in the great struggle to make Kansas a free state, some still wield a ready pen in defense of the insti- tutions which the early Kansas press made possible. Of these men, John A. Martin, of the Atchison Champion; Sol Miller, of the Troy Chief; S. S. Prouty, of Freedom's Cham- pion; T. Dwight Thatcher, of the Lawrence Journal; P. G. Adams, of the Atchison Free Press, have gone, but D. R. Anthony, of the Leavenworth Times; M. M. Murdock, of the Wichita Eagle, and George W. Martin, formerly of the Junction City Union, now of the Kansas City Gazette, are still in the editorial harness I think many fail to realize the great and successful fight that the early free state press of Kansas made for freedom's cause and the influ- ence it exerted to give breadth and purpose to Kansas civilization. By every golden harvest, by every lowing herd, by every bursting granary, by every successful business en- terprise, by every overflowing bank, by all of her increas- ing streams of business, already bank full, Kansas has reason to congratulate itself upon these evidences of ma- terial prosperity that have followed the planting of the flag upon her soil long before Kansas was born. But better than all these — in its many happy and contented homes, from the dugout to the mansion; in all of its public schools, uni- versities, colleges and academies; in its many churches, of whatever name, denomination or creed; and in the product of all these, its noble type of manhood and womanhood, Kansas finds its real cause for rejoicing. And this suggests two questions: If the hauling down of the Spanish flag and the planting of the American flag in its stead at that place in the early days of the last cen- tury has been productive of so much good, can the hauling down of the Spanish flag and the planting of the American flag in its stead in any other place, at the closing days of the same century, be productive of harm? If the haul- ing down of the Spanish flag and the planting of the Ameri • can flag in its place brought so much liberty and blessing to millions of people and displaced a rude savagery by a high Christian civilization, is there any danger that the hauling down of the Spanish flag and the planting of the MRS. ELIZABETH JOHNSON. History of Republic County. 27 American Hag in its place a hundred years afterward will bring hardship, tyranny or oppression? And now, in the name of Kansas; in the name of its one and a half million strong, brave and law-abiding citi- zens; in the name of its publ'c schools, the pride and glory of our state; in the name of its homes, its churches, its public press; in the name of its early pioneers, living and dead; in the name of the boys and girls who are soon to come forth out of our homes and churches and schools — the product of our civilization — to take upon their shoul- ders the responsibilities and cares of state; in the name of all that is good and inspiring in the history of Kansas, I hereby accept, in the name and behalf of all of these, the deed to this historic spot. At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the program was re- sumed and Henry P. Mason, of Garden City, delivered an address on "From Quivira to Kansas," which abounded in stories of the exploits and conquests of Coronado, Cortez and other early adventurers. His speech was of an his- torical nature and elicited close attention. Mrs. Margaret Hill McCarter, of Topeka, the noted woman orator, delivered a patriotic address "Lest we Forget," showing the educational advantages of such gatherings. The address was warmly received. The speaking closed with an able address on "Fra- ternalism and Patriotism" by Hon. John W. Haughey, grand master of the Odd Fellows of Kansas. The unveiling of the monument with appropriate ceremonies will take place September 29, just ninety-five years from the day that the American flag first floated to the breeze in Kansas. PIKE'S PAWNEE INDIAN VILLAGE. A paper read by Mrs. Elizabeth A. Johnson before the Daughters of the American Revolution, at Lawrence, Kan., October 11, 1900. What of the Pawnee republic? Where was it? And 28 History of Republic County. why do we, a people of modern ideas and fancies, busy with the trials and cares of a new era, seek to return to a people nearly a hundred years gone? Can we only say "because?" To begin with, what of the Pawnee republic? Was it only a place high on a hill overlooking the Republican river, which bears its name, and flows continually on, un- mindful that above it dwelt the first uncivilized people who gave themselves a republican form of government such as we now enjoy? Ah, no ; nor was it the plains, vast and wide, which stretched away to the southward as far as the eye could reach. One would never have dreamed that some day the iron horse would leave a dense cloud of smoke behind, or that cities would spring up like magic. The Pawnee Indians, like their white brothers, were not always at peace with their neighbors; in fact, they were rightly named the Ishmaels of the plains. On the 15th of July, 1806, there sailed away from the landing at Belle Fontaine, near St. Louis, two small boats with a party consisting of two lieutenants, one surgeon, one sergeant, two corporals, sixteen privates, and one in- terpreter. They had in charge a number of Osages and Pawnees who had been to Washington, and whom Lieuten- ant Pike was to escort to their own people. He was also to investigate our new possessions, a part of which is now Kansas. Yet no sooner had he started than the news was carried across by Spanish spies, and Lieutenant Malgares hurried up with an army of 300 men from Santa Pe, with the hope of bringing Pike back a prisoner. But luckily on the broad Kansas plains they missed each other, and after many trials and hardships Lieutenant Pike arrived safelj?" at the Pawnee republic, having crossed the Spanish trail wondering what it meant. He was soon to find out. Our little handful of men crossed the Republican river, oppo- site the village, and rested a few days. On the 29th of September they held their grand coun- History of Republic County. 29 cil, at which were collected hundreds of warriors who had been taught hostility to the American cause. Imagine a place high on a lonely prairie, wigwams here and there, a river dark and somber, hundreds of dusky warriors made hideous with war paint, each solemn and stern, and a man determined and cool, but the same as alone with this vast throng, each ready to slay him. Why? you ask. There on a staff in front of a chief's tent floats a flag foreign to our country. Would Lieutenant Pike hold council under another flag, and in his own country? No, a thousand times no! He demanded that the Spanish flag be hauled down, and our stars and stripes be hoisted in its place. Receiving no response, he repeated his request, adding that it was impossible for a nation to have two fathers; either they must be children of the Spanish sovereign or acknowledge their American father. Slowly an old man arose, took down the Spanish colors, and sadly laid them at Pike's feet. Pike's end was gained. Our flag floated proudly over his head for the first time in a new and disputed territory. We are almost tempted to shout ' 'America !" but we must pause and think of what he suffered after his departure from this place. He was beset on on all sides by these savages, only overcoming danger by his fearlessness, but he was captured at last and remained a prisoner for six months. His notes of observation and his letters were taken from him. He merely saw the glorious peak which bears his name. Honor to Colorado for her step in the matter. Does he deserve honor? Shall we, a patriotic people, allow this one and only place to pass into obscurity ? Does Kansas lag behind her sister state in recognizing bravery and de- votion to a proud flag and a glorious cause? A more fit- ting tribute we cannot give than to mark this spot, which it would seem even nature had designed to do honor to a brave and noble man, Lieut. Zebulon M. Pike. 30 History of Republic County. THE PAWNEE REPUBLIC. Read by A. B. Warner, before the Pawnee Republic Historical So- ciety, at the Pawnee villag-e. Tread lightly to-day, for the dust of your feet Is the tomb where a nation lies sleeping; The cold blastof winter and summer's soft breeze Together their vigils are keeping. No monument o'er them to crumble to dust, Unmarked as the realms of the fairy; These children of nature, how sweetly they rest. Embalmed in the green of the prairie. A blast from the tempest swept over the scene; The nymphs of the vale have a story; They stand at the portal of nations and plead For a people entitled to glory. The fierce battle-ax and the torch of the foe Were the doors to this climax of horror; The sun in its glory set peaceful and calm. But rose sullen and black on the morrow. The voice of the infant was cruelly hushed, It perished beside its dead mother; The maiden arrayed in her bridal costume Died in the cold arms of her lover. You ask of the warrior and where could he be, 'Mid the flame and the carnage and rattle; Surprised and outnumbered, a hero was he. As he fell in the front of the battle. Old Father Time with his sickle so keen Sweeps down the tall oak and the heather ; And nations unborn with the nations that be Shall mingle their ashes together. The voice of each mortal shall cease to be heard, And palsied the arm of the giant; And kings with their kingdoms shall lie in the dust, And the tongue be no longer defiant. These toilings for gain and for honor we see. Ambitions loud claim for preferment; History of Republic County. 31 The bustle and turmoil and strivings that be, Be unknown in the place of interment. The prince and his palace, the serf and his hut, Shall mingle their ashes together ; From dust and to dust is again the decree. And not a leaf missed from the heather. And, at the last page of the records of time. When the nations from slumber shall rally. Then the Pawnee republic shall shine as she stood, In her pride, overlooking the valley. n^ 32 History of Republic County. CHAPTER IL REPUBLIC COUNTY. BOUNDARIES OF THE COUNTY DEFINED— EARLY SETTLEMENTS— FIRST SCHOOLS— EARLY MAIL FACILITIES. The first mention we have of Republic county is by the Legislature of 1860, which defined its boundaries and gave it a name. It is so called from its relations to the Republican river, which enters the county near its north- western corner, flowing a little east of south, leaving the county about eight miles east of the southwest corner. The river received its name by reason of the fact that at one time the band of Pawnee Indians called the "Pawnee Republic" had its principal village and seat of government in its valley. The boundaries of the county, as fixed by the Legislature of 1860, are as follows : Commencing at a point where the sixth principal meridian intersects the base line of the state of Kansas; thence south on said sixth principal meridian to the township line between townships four and five, south; thence west with said township line to the range line between ranges five and six, west of the sixth principal meridian; thence north with said range line to the base line of the state of Kansas; thence east on said base line to the place of beginning. These boundaries have never been changed; and the idea, entertained by some of our citizens, that the county originally embraced a larger area, and that one tier of townships on the south had been detached from Republic and attached to Cloud county, is erroneous. The county is as large to-day as it has ever been, being thirty miles from east to west and twenty-four from north to south, containing seven hundred and twenty square miles, and is located in what is popularly called the "northern tier, " immediately south of the fortieth paral- lel of north latitude and west of the sixth principal merid- TSi pi.y w Map OF Republic County, Kans. ^aH ^Q ^ aM |fc3r^ •n: '^ V. r"ii> to v:^ e. vY 'o J Hi^ History of Republic County. 33 ian. It is bounded on the north by Thayer and Nuckols counties, Nebraska; on the east by Washington, on the south by Cloud and on the west by Jewell county. It is one hundred and twenty-five miles, on an air line, west of the Missouri river, and ninety miles northwest of the geo- graphical center of the United States. The following highly interesting account of the loca- tion of a townsite in Republic county before any settle- ment had been made here by white men is a bit of history never before published. Mr. Manning was one of the origi- nal members of the Winfield, Cowley County, Townsite Company, organized in January, 1870, and has been a con- spicuous figure in the history of Kansas for forty years. He was a State Senator during the session of 1864, and whose district comprised the counties of Marshall, Riley, Washington, Clay, Republic and Shirley, now Cloud, and was the author of an important measure in the interest of Republic county : Winfield, Kan., March 25, 1891. Hon. I. O. Savage, BELLE\aLLE, Kan. Dear Sir: — I am in receipt of your communication of the 24th inst., and note its contents. With pleasure I com- ply with your request. In the spring of 1860 I was a resi- dent of Marysville, in Marshall county, Kansas, 21 years of age and a land surveyor. Mr. Frank Marshall, who was the founder of Marysville and a conspicuous figure in ante- bellum days and politics, closely in touch with Buchanan's administration and alive to western development, antici- pating the passage of a Pacific railroad bill then pending in Congress, decided to secure possession of a townsite at what should be the focal point of two lines of railroad under the bill. By its provisions one line was to start from the vicinity of the mouth of the Platte river, and the other line was to start from the mouth of the Kansas river, and the the two were to converge to a point within 200 miles of the Missouri river. Congressmen Craig, of Missouri, and Montgomery, of Pennsylvania, were co-operating with Mr. Marshall. The latter outfitted a heavy government wagon drawn by two yoke of oxen, with necessary tools, 34 History of Republic County. camp outfit, including tent, and employed me to take charge of it and five men to go over to the big bend of the Republican river and select a townsite on suitable ground, which was to be the junction of the two railroads, from which westwardly one line was to be constructed. This was in April of 1860. We drove from Marysville down the Big Blue river to reach what was known as the parallel road, the only road leading to the Republican valley in that vicinity at that time, and on arriving at the Republican river found a big, burly settler named Cloud at or about where Clifton now is. We remained there over night and resumed our travel up the valley on what was known as the Military road. We saw no more settlers nor Indians. I easily found the parallel line, dividing Kansas and Ne- braska, for the township and section corners were plainly marked by stones. At the point where the river turns south and extending from the north bank of the stream to the state line a fine, gently sloping plateau offered a beau- tiful townsite. This I selected and laid off and staked two streets, one running east and west and one running north and south, and in the four angles of these cross streets superintended the laying of the foundations of four log houses and platted a map of a townsite one mile square, to be turned over to Mr. Marshall. I then left the party to complete the buildings and returned on a mule, which I had taken along for my individual use, across the track- less country to Hollenberg station, on the overland stage road, about sixty miles distant. There were no settlers on the route. The party completed the buildings and re- turned some weeks later by the route they went. There was some travel at that time over the Military road, con- sisting of teams en route to Oregon and Washington terri- tories. That summer the Indians burned the houses down. The Democratic railroad bill died with Buchanan's admin- istration, and a new bill, with different provisions and com- missioners, fostered the living Pacific railroad. At the time I speak of there was considerable good timber at the junction of White Rock creek and the Republican. As I now remember. Sec. 4, Town 1, S. R. 5 west, was the loca- tion selected. Tom Tierney and G. L. Manning, a younger brother of mine, were in the party, but I do not now recall the names of the other members of the party. My brother, a boy of 17 years, joined an emigrant train and went to Bakerville, Oregon. I don't now remember what name CONK AD MYERS. History of Republic County. 35 Gren. Marshall gave the town site, nor what steps he took to obtain title. Respectfully yours, E. C. Manning. Daniel and Conrad Myers were the first white settlers of Republic county, Daniel settling upon the E | of NE \ and E i of SEi of section 1, town 4 south, range 3 west, and Conrad taking W i of NWi and W4 SW \ of section 6, town 4 south, range 2 west, where he now resides. These settlements were made the 28th of February, 1861. The nearest white settlement, at that time, was at Lake Sibley, in Cloud county, which did not prove perma- nent on account of Indian depredations. Conrad Myers is the only one of the early settlers who did not, at any time, leave the county on account of the Indian troubles, and for more than four weeks during the spring of 1861 was the only white person in Republic county. The near- est postoffice at that time was at Manhattan, eighty miles away; and it is not, perhaps, necessary to state that Mr. Myers did not at that time take the daily papers. Daniel Myers built the first dwelling house in Septem- ber, 1861, a comfortable log structure in which he lived during his entire residence in this county. John Myers, a cousin, came with Daniel and Conrad, but did not take up any land. He died the last of April, 1861, being the first white settler who died in the county. The next settlers after Daniel and Conrad Myers, were David and John Cory, who came and made settlement March 17th, 1862, John Cory taking the W i NW i section 18 and the W I SW i section 7, town 4, Range 2, in the fall of 1861, and made the first improvements in the county after the two Mr. Myers. David Cory was born in Cortland county, New York, March 4th, 1807, and died after a long and painful illness at the home of his son, John W., in Grant township, Jan. uary 3rd, 1893, being 85 years, 10 months and 23 days old. John W. Cory is still living on the land he selected 40 years ago. 36 History of Republic County. The next settlers were James VanNatta and Wm, Harshberger; the former settling on the NW i of section 19, town 3-2, on the tenth day of March, 1862, and the lat- ter on the SW i of same section and same date. The next settler was James G. Tuthill, who arrived at what was then known as Salt Marsh, on the tenth of June, 1862, and located on the NW \ of section 28, town 4, south range 2 west. On the day of his arrival he cut and hauled four logs for the foundation of a house, intending to build at once, but was obliged to return to Jefferson county, Kansas, his former home, on account of the serious illness of his hired man, where he remained until July 1st, when he returned with four men, intending to complete the building of the house as speedily as possible. Again was he disappointed, one of his men being so unfortunate as to have a bug crawl into one of his ears on the night of his arrival; and having no means of removing the same, and fearing the same would prove fatal, necessitated the returnof the entire party to Jefferson county. Mr. Tuthill then employed C. M. Way, a resident at that time, of Jefferson county, to come on and complete his house; Mr. Way arriving at the Marsh August 16th, 1862, but finding the country swarm- ing with Indians, returned at once to Clifton, where a small settlement had already been made. Mr. Tuthill remained in Jefferson county until the lat- ter part of September, 1862, when he again set out for Re- public county, bringing his family and two good men as help with him, arriving at the Marsh October 1st, and built that fall two houses of logs, each 18x20 feet. The winter of 1862-63 was very mild, no snow or rain falling, and little freezing weather, no ice forming thicker than a knife blade. The spring opened very early, and Mr. Tuthill broke ten acres of prairie at the Marsh in February, 1863, and had his garden all made by the 10th of March. He had a splendid garden that year, melons being ripe on the 4th of July. On Sunday after the 4th, History of Republic County. 37 about 6,000 Indians, principally Pawnees, lowas andOtoes, camped near Mr. Tuthill's place, and harvested his melons and other garden truck most successfully, but offered no violence to himself or family. After everything on the place had been stolen the chief in command placed a double guard around the garden patch. This action of the chief was very considerate, and highly appreciated by Mr. Tuthill after his property had been stolen. The same spring a settlement was made on White Rock creek by Mr. Philip Keyser, on what is now known as the Fisher farm. Keyser had been here but two months when the creek overflowed its banks and swept over the bottom to the depth of four feet or more, and continued this way for nearly two weeks. Until very recently the driftwood at the foot of the hills indicated the height of the water. The water in this creek has not been as high since by five feet. Mr. Keyser left as soon as the water fell so he could go, not liking that kind of a drouth. In the fall of 1863, S. M. Fisher, James Reed and one Clark, a preacher, homesteaded the land now owned by Fisher, Johnson and Lovewell, and remained upon it until the spring of 1864. That spring the Pawnees and Chey- ennes had a battle on the town site of White Rock, which resulted in the death of one of the Pawnee braves named Sy washa Spattybat, the first blood known to have been spilled in White Rock township. The presence of large numbers of Indians, and their hostile demonstrations, so alarmed the settlers that they all left, and no further set- tlement was attempted until the spring of 1866, when Thomas Lovewell and others came back to stay. But to return to the settlement on Salt Creek. In the fall of 1862, Isaac M. Schooley settled on the NW i of sec- tion 7, town 4 south, 2 west, and made homestead entry No. 54 on the same, January 17th, 1863, and made final proof on the same January 17th, 1868, certificate No. 9. Daniel Meyers made entry No. 55 on the E 4- of NE i and E I of SE i of section 1, town 4 south, range 3 west, on 38 History of Republic County. the 17th day of January, 1863, and made final proof Janu- ary 17th, 1868, being exactly five years from the date of his homestead papers, certificate No. 10. Thus it appears that the homestead entries and final proofs made by Schooley and Meyers were made on the same dates, the land office at that time being located at Junction City. John Cory made final proof on the W i of the SW i of section 7, and the W i of the NW ^ of section 18, town 4 south, range 2 west, with land warrant, on the 5th day of October, 1864, thus becoming the first real estate taxpayer in the county. The first prairie broken was by Daniel and Conrad Meyers in March, 1861. The population of the county, according to the census of 1861, was 5. In 1862 this num- ber was augmented by the arrival of David and John Cory, James VanNatta and family, making a total of 13 at the close of that year. Rev. R. P. West came to Republic county in October, 1863, and settled on the NW \ of sec- tion 18, town 3 south, range 2 west. The entire population of the county at that time was 47. Conrad Meyers paid $2.89 taxes in May, 1864, for the tax of 1863, which was the first paid in the county. The first white child born was Lincoln, son of Daniel and Matilda Meyers, Septem- ber 15th, 1861. The first persons married in the county were Sidney S. Way and Madora Tuthill, at Salt Marsh, near the pres- ent town site of Seapo. They were joined in the holy bonds by a United Brethren preacher from Nebraska named Pring, in December, 1864. Edward Enoch and a Miss Johnson were the second couple married, this marriage being solemnized by Rev. R. P. West in May, 1865. The first school district that was laid off or formed was six miles wide and twelve long, embracing all the territory occupied by the first settlers. On the division of this dis- trict, by some mistake or other, that part having the first school house, and where the first school was taught, was History of Republic County. 39 named No. 2, and district No. 1 was formed from territory lying next on the south. During the war the growth of the county was very slow, scarcely averaging five families a year, the settlement of the country west of the Sixth principal meridian being re- garded as an experiment only. The only soldiers from Re- public county in the war of the rebellion were Ezra Spen- cer Cory, son of our late esteemed fellow citizen, David Cory, who enlisted at Ft. Riley as a private in company C, 2d Kansas Cavalry, August 27th, 1863, served a little more than a year, and died at Springfield, Mo., March 9th, 1864, of disease contracted in the service, and Wm. Harshberger, before mentioned, who, from the best information we can get, enlisted soon after leaving the county, and, on the 8th of April, 1865, was commissioned by the President as sec- ond lieutenant in the 5th U. S. Volunteers. As before stated, the nearest post office was at Man- hattan, 80 miles from the settlement on Salt Creek, and more than 100 from the settlement on White Rock; and, about twice a month, some one of the settlers made this pilgrimage for the mail, and to procure flour and groceries for the settlement. The mail was brought to the resi- dence of J. E. VanNatta, and from there distributed. This continued until the summer of 1863, when the mail route was extended to Fox village, now called Clifton, 20 miles distant from the nearest settlement in Republic county, and over 50 miles from White Rock. Two years later the line was extended to Elk Creek, now called Clyde. This extension was granted by the government on condition that the settlers pay all the expenses of carrying and handling the mails, which they did for two years, Moses Heller, the first postmaster at Elk Creek, having the con- tract for the same. The office was kept in a stovepipe hat, the weekly mail never being sufficient to fill the hat half full. In 1868 the line was extended to Salt Marsh, and James G. Tuthill appointed postmaster, this being the first post office established in Republic county. 40 History of Republic County. The gospel of peace was first proclaimed in Republic county by William Harshberger, a Methodist Episcopal preacher, who came to the county with J. E. VanNatta in March, 1862, and preached his first sermon at Mr. Van- Natta's house in April following, to a small congregation, we judge, as the population of the county did not exceed 13 at that time. Prom what we can learn of the Rev. Mr. Harshberger, we are inclined to the opinion that he was not possessed of a superabundance of piety, his religion probably being of that sort which would not well bear transportation across the Missouri river. His place was soon filled, however, by R. P. West, who commenced preaching in October, 1862, and who has preached more sermons in Republic county than any other man living. Still, his work was not confined to this county alone, but embraced a large scope of country, his circuit being more extensive than is usually assigned to Methodist preachers. As near as we can learn, his circuit was bounded on the north by the Platte river, on the east by the Missouri, on the south by the Kaw, on the west by the Rocky moun- tains. John Harris, jr., and James Swan were the first set- tlers on Mill creek, in the eastern part of the county, lo- cating on section 4, in Richland township, March 5th, 1866, Mr. Harris taking a homestead on the N i of NW i of sec- tion 4, and Swan filing on the NE ^ of the same section. This land was, at that time, within the limits of the old survey of the Kansas Pacific Railroad, their route at that time being up the Republican river, but was changed to the Smoky Hill Route in the summer of that year. The next settler to arrive in this part of the county was Edwin Enoch, who settled on the NE i of section 2, Richland township, in April, 1866. The next were Z. P. Rowe and Jacob Hull, who came the same summer. M. H. Harper, Henry Willoughby, Wm. Oliver and Samuel Elder came in the fall of the same year. Harper making settlement in the north part of Elk Creek township, and History of Republic County. 41 the others in the south part of Richland. John Swan came in the fall of 1867, Joe Long and Ira Mclntyre in the fall of 1868. The nearest post-office at that time was Haddam, in Washington county, ten miles distant from this settlement. In the spring of 1868, an office was established at Cuba, and Z. P. Rowe appointed postmaster. This was the sec- ond post-office established in Republic county. John Harris was the first reporter of agricultural sta- tistics from the county, reporting to the Commissioner of Agriculture at Washington for the years 1868 and 1869. He was also one of the first board of county commission- ers, being appointed by Gov. Crawford in September, 1868. The Indians were not troublesome in this neighborhood, but confined their operations to the settlements farther west. On the 15th of May, 1867, Thomas Register and his two sons, Job and Robert, and one daughter, made a set- tlement on Rose creek, in what is now Rose Creek town- ship. This was the first settlement attempted in the northeastern portion of the county. During the summer of 1867, serious apprehensions of an Indian raid were an- ticipated, so much so that Mr. Register and family, and a few other settlers, left their claims and went some miles down the creek into Nebraska, where, in company with the settlers of that region, they erected a stockade or fort, and where they remained for several weeks. Thomas and Robert are dead and Job has removed from the county. CHAPTER IIL INDIAN DEPREDATIONS. It is an undisputed fact that during its early settle- ment no part of Kansas suffered more severely from In- dian raids and depredations than the Solomon, Republi- 42 History of Republic County. can and White Rock Valleys. The pioneer settlers were disturbed by them with more or less frequency for nearly ten years. During the war, and even as far down as 1869 and 1870, the settlers were almost constantly harassed by the In- dians, their crops destroyed, cattle and horses driven off, and occasionally a settler butchered. We are indebted to A. B. Whiting, formerly of Clay county, but now living in Topeka, for the following account of an Indian massacre committed in Republic county, near the present town site of Republic City, in the year 1857, nearly four years prior to the first settlement of the county. The overland emigration to California and Oregon in 1857 was immense. During May and June in that year, the trails leading westward across Kansas were crowded with the trains and herds of the emigrants. So heavy was the travel on the old Mormon trail leading northwest from Fort Riley, that for many days it moved in three or four parallel columns. This rush of stock led some few trains to try the new route, barely marked by a government train in 1855, up the Republican valley, but soon to be opened and bridged between Forts Riley and Kearney, as the chance for grass was much better by this route. A party of twenty-five men, women and children, from Arkansas, with eight wagons, four hundred head of stock, and some few saddle horses, took this route; and early in June passed by the frontier settlements, and traveled leis- urely up the Republican valley, now an ocean of grass, dotted with the bright spring flowers. Ignorant of the dangers of the route, and reveling in the abundance of game and fish which this route afforded, and improving the opportunity to recruit stock and teams before they should reach the regions of scanty forage, they were loath to leave the beautiful, happy valley. The watch- ful eyes of the savages were upon them; and their neglect of setting guards and enforcing semi-military discipline soon revealed to the Indians, who were dogging the train, History of Republic County. 43 that it could be surprised and robbed with small danger to the attacking party. The train camped for the last time in the valley at that point in Republic county where the old Military road left the Republican and struck across the prairie for the Little Blue, more than one hundred miles from Port Riley. This point was at, or near, the present site of Repub- lic City. Just as the train was hitching up to roll out of camp in the early morning, the Indians charged, shouting through the train and shooting in every direction, to stam- pede the stock and drive the owners from the train. All was disorder and confusion, and little resistance was made. They fled from the train, many of them just as they arose from their beds. Smith, the captain and largest owner, in attempting to escape on a horse, was shot, his body stripped of valuables, and mutilated in a shocking manner. Four of the men in the train were killed, others wound- ed, one young woman very seriously. But plunder, not blood, was the object of the Indians; and, as soon as the whites left the train, they left them to their fate and ran- sacked the wagons. A keg of whiskey found among the loading, soon had the whole band engaged in a drunken revel: but, while the emigrants saw from the hills the In- dians drunk to helplessness, they dared not attempt to re- capture the train. Their drunken orgies over, the Indians loaded their ponies from the train. The wagon covers were stripped off, sacks of flour, meal and dried fruit were poured on the ground that the bags might be carried away, the clothing packed on the ponies, and, driving the herd of stock, they started for their camp — wherever that might be. The events of after years satisfied the settlers in the Republican valley that this robbery was committed by the Pawnees, nominally, friendly, but ever ready to rob and murder when they thought it would be charged up to the Siouxs, Cheyennes, and other hostile tribes on the plains. 44 History of Republic County. Meanwhile, the emigrants turned away from the train without food, or means of procuring it; with half the men in the party killed, including the captain ; with several children, the wounded woman to care for, and ninety miles from the settlement — were in danger of starvation. Two men started for help. Without food or rest, and almost dead from exhaustion, they reached the settlement in three days, coming to the house of Moses Yonkin, in eastern Clay county. The settlement was very small, few horses were in the country, and a sack of flour was very hard to find ; but as soon as a team could be got together, bullets run, and provisions found, Moses and Wm. Yonkins and A. B. Whiting started up the valley, while word was sent to Port Riley asking for help, and the country was scoured to follow those on the way; but so scarce were horses, that in twenty miles only three could be found for the trip. And now the relief party began to meet the emi- grants in bands of twos and more, the strongest first, as they straggled toward the settlement, but so scared, crazed and bewildered that they fled and hid away from the friends who were bringing them relief. The sixth day after the attack the relieving party found the last of the emigrants about thirty miles from the scene of the butchery. An old white-headed woman, her long hair streaming in the wind, almost borne on the shoulder of her son, he fainting from the wound of a poisoned arrow that afterwards caused his death, having on his other arm a couple of old muskets, and a fire brand in his hand, both haggard, dirty, bloody and wild — they presented a spectacle once seen never to be forgotten. And when the certainty of help and relief came to them, their utter prostration and help- lessness told, as words could not, the sufferings they had endured. It is a sufficient commentary on the administration of James Buchanan, that in a case like this, with six com- panies of cavalry at Port Riley, not a man nor a gun, nor a ration, could be had for the relief of this unfortunate History of Republic County. 45 party till after a handful of poor frontier settlers had gone out, gathered them up, and brought them to the Fort. And this is only one of many instances where frontier set- tlers in Kansas, and notably in Republic county, "stood picket" for the United States troops, who were placed near the frontier ostensibly for its protection. The survivors of these emigrants mostly returned to Arkansas, a few, however, remaining in Kansas. The first organized armed resistance to Indian depre- dations in Republic county was made in September, 1864 a company of militia having been formed, comprising about fifty men, all mounted, each man furnishing his own horse, saddle and bridle, made up of the early settlers of what is now the counties of Clay, Cloud, Washington and Re- public, commanded by Captain I. M. Schooley, with head- quarters at Elk Creek, now called Clyde. The arms and ammunition for this company were furnished by the Gen- eral Government, drawing the same at Fort Riley, the nearest military post. The arms were old and condemned, and consisted of Enfield, Springfield, Harper's Ferry mus- kets, some smooth bore, some rough bore, and some with scarcely any bore at all; but all were considered good enough for the pioneers of Republic county to fight Indians with. At the time arms w^ere drawn, thirty days' rations were furnished, consisting of bacon and hard tack; and so this little independent command was placed on a war foot- ing. Capt. Schooley held a commission from Gov. Robin- son, and seems to have been chosen to this distinction on account of gallant services rendered in Missouri, or some other place, in the early part of the war. He also seems to have been an exceedingly prudent and careful commander, seldom, if ever, exceeding the authority vested in him by virtue of his commission. These were troublesome days and many a feat of noble daring remains to be recorded by the historian, and to be graphically told in ballad and poem. Kansas has her tales 46 History of Republic County. of border Indian warfare awaiting the pen of the novelist, and her chivalrous deeds awaiting the poet's rehearsal. When our future romancer shall come, one incident at least, connected with the early history of Republic county, will court his attention, and render the valley of the Re- publican as romantic as the highlands of Scotland. It was in the autumn of 1864, when Capt. Schooley and his com- mand were preparing for a campaign up the Republican river, and when the little band of heroic souls was drawn up on the banks of the stream preparatory to starting. Yes, heroes ! ye readers of tales of chivalry resonant with the clashing of swords against mailed armor, and bedecked with gaudy plumes ! these hardy, rudely clad frontiers- men, mounted on their horses taken from the plow, were as great heroes as any you read of in your romances ; and though no fine court ladies bade these brave men adieu, they saw around them wives, mothers, sisters and daught- ers, whose lives and homes were to be protected from ruthless savages. The time for departure had arrived. The gallant Captain seated on a noble charger, addressed his company from a little eminence in front; and, as the locklets from his finely formed forehead floated on the morning breeze, and the burning words fell from his de- termined lips, all felt that the leader was worthy of his trust, and that he was every inch a hero. In that company stood every male inhabitant of law- ful age, and in close proximity stood the women of their households. Good-bye came at last, and heart-rending cries and sobs rent the air. The sun looked down with a calm, autumnal smile upon the brown prairie, and the gen- tle Kansas zephyrs sighed, scarcely heard over the placid stream. Life seemed beautiful and good; but, alas! man ever mars the harmony established by the Creator, and here on this beautiful morning and on this lonely spot, stood a band of men in the very prime of life's enjoyment, preparing to rush into the jaws of a cruel death. Alas ! with so intrepid a leader, much danger must be encount. History of Republic County. 47 ered, many a brave one must fall, and many a fair face must be mutilated by savage hands. Shrieks and sobs rent the air, and wives and children and gray-haired mothers clung to the noble men with the grasp of despair. Only one woman among them all manifested no emotion. The captain's wife stood unmoved amid all this scene of sorrowing, and reminds us of one of Sparta's noble dames. She was a noble woman, and worthy to be the wife of the gallant leader of his fellows. No sign of grief, or fear, or sadness, did she betray. Not a word escaped her lips un- til the troops were about to start, and were already drawn up in line; then she waved her hand to the women to be silent. Every one obeyed, as though this strange creature held a magician's wand. All were silent and attentive, when, in clear, firm tones, she thus addressed them: "Ladies, be composed. Why all this demonstration? Why make such a racket? There is going to be no trouble, nobody hurt, nobody killed, unless through awkwardness some of them kill themselves. They are under the captain's com- mand, and must obey his orders; and from a long and in- timate acquaintance with him, I know he will not lead them where there is the least indication of danger. Dry your tears, and cease your wails. This is a picnic excursion, 'only this, and nothing more. ' " This memorable campaign was followed by a reign of comparative quiet, which lasted until April, 1867, when the Indians made another hostile incursion into the coun- try. During the summer of 1868, the independent com- pany of Salt Creek militia was organized, composed whol- ly of settlers of Republic county, and numbering about fifty men, with W. P. Peake as first lieutenant, to rank from August 24th, and captain from September 8th, and W. H. H. Reily as first lieutenant from the latter date. The members of this company were: John H. Frint, Joseph Meyers, J. H. Smock, Wm. Hardaker, Charles A. Campbell, B. F. Sayler, 48 History of Republic Comity. Horace Beers, JohnW. Swan, Daniel Morland, Robert Swan, Z. P. Rowe, Wm. W. Newlon, T. C. Reily, Conrad Meyers, Geo. McChesney, Thos. J. Eckert, Wm. T. Campbell, Jacob Shafer, Edmund Powell, Geo. J. Trowbridge, William Shafer, Noah Kunkel, Thos. Hedgecoke, Milton A. Daughertee, Philo P. Way, Geo. S. Willoughby, William Oliver, Geo. Shafer, Wm. Bonham, John McParlane, J. W. Cory, John Mclntire, J. E. Van Natta, John G. Isaacs, Hilbert Johnson, West Union Spillman, Michel Young, John C. Reily, Chas. W. Beebe, David Cory, Adams E. Cooly, Hiram Jackson, Geo. W. Wilcox, Daniel Meyers, Hudson Cooly, Samuel Elder, Lanty Oliver, Augustus Willoughby, Henry Vining. W. H. Willoughby, "The Independent Company of Salt Creek Militia " was well officered, tolerably well armed and equipped, and rendered very efficient service in repelling Indian invas- ions. The arms and ammunition for this company were furnished by the State, while each man furnished his own horse, saddle and bridle. In June, 1869, R. T. Stantield was commissioned cap- tain of militia by Governor Harvey. During the summer he recruited a company of 65, which included all the avail- able men for miles around. Of this company, Peter John- son was first lieutenant, he also being commissioned by Governor Harvey, and was a gallant officer. This com- pany was furnished by the State with Spencer carbines, ammunition and rations, each man furnishing his own horse, saddle and bridle. Served a little more than six History of Republic County. 49 months, the Indians soon learning to give this company a wide berth. It is quite probable that the settlements of White Rock would have been abandoned but for the pro- tection afforded by this militia company. Fearing trouble from the Indians, nearly all the set- tlers on Salt and Reily Creeks left their claims in May, 1869, and staid away until July, at which time a small body of militia, belonging to Captain Stanfield's command, was sent to their aid, with headquarters on the NE \ of section 3, Belleville township, where a log fort had been erected. This fort was on the north side of what is now the main road leading from Belleville to Scandia, and nearly opposite the present residence of John N. Snyder. The men comprising this garrison were Noah Thompson, Cor- poral in command; George Andrews, Wm. Little, Qliver Gross, Samuel Darling, William Hoover, Lew Hoover, William Robinson, Charles English and Ephraim H. Wil- cox. This force was a Godsend to many of the early set- tlers, as several of this command were expert marksmen, a dead shot on buffalo; and it has been reported that Tex- as cattle were sometimes mistaken for buffalo, as a large herd of them had been stampeded in this neighborhood about this time, and several head of stragglers remained in the vicinity for several days. At any rate, nearly all the settlers had a plenty of buffalo meat as long as any of the Texas cattle could be found. These soldiers remained here from July until October 18th, when they joined the main company which went on a scouting expedition up the Solomon valley, going as far west as where Kirwin now stands. The only actual settlers of Republic county known to have been killed by the Indians, within the limits of the county, were Gordon Windbigler, in Big Bend township, August 15th, 1868, and Malcolm Granstadt, a Swede boy, at Scandia, in the spring of 1869. The circumstances of the killing of Windbigler are about as follows: As before 50 History of Republic Coimty. stated, he was killed on the 15th day of August, 1869, and it occurred on section 36, about three-fourths of a mile southwest of where Republic City now stands. The set- tlers in this immediate neighborhood at that time consist- ed of fourteen men, four women and five or six children. Their fortress, or place of rendezvous in case of danger, was on the NW i of section 1, town 2, range 5, and consist- ed of eight log houses built around a square, and was con- sidered secure against any ordinary Indian attack. Among the men were R. T. Stanfield, Daniel and David Davis, W. R. Charles, Chas. Johnson, Lewis Boggs, Alex- ander Lewis, W. P. Phillips, James Egans, Gordon Wind- bigler, and Miller, a lame man, some of whom had taken claims in Jewell county. The women were Mrs. Charles, Mrs. Lewis, Mrs Dan. Davis and Mrs. Thos. Lovewell. David Davis, Johnson, Lewis and Windbigler were making hay near the river, three miles above the fort, when they were suddenly surprised and attacked by about 75 Indians, mounted on ponies, and armed with re- volvers and spears, or lances. Only one of the hay-mak- ing party, Lewis, was armed, he acting as sentry, and carrying a Spencer rifle. They had with them a team and wagon and one saddle horse. They immediately start- ed for the fort, being hotly pursued by the Indians, Wind- bigler riding on horseback in advance of the wagon until when within about a mile from the fort, losing his hat, he stopped to recover it, which brought him in the rear of the wagon. Having recovered his hat, by rapid riding, he soon overtook the wagon and passed it. The Indians in the meantime were circling around in front of the party with evident intention of cutting them off from the fort and massacreing the entire party. The Indians, having discovered by this time that Windbigler was unarmed, rode up within pistol shot, fired on him, brought him to the ground, then speared him with their lances, one of which severed the juglar vein causing death in a few min- utes. Lewis now displays great coolness and bravery. History of Republic County. 51 Seeing Windbigler fall, he leaves the wagon and advances to the assistance of his wounded comrade, with his trust- ed Spencer driving the Indians to a respectful distance, and remains by the dead body of his fallen companion until help arrived from the fort. Windbigler was buried in a coffin made of puncheons taken from the floor of Dan Davis' shanty. For the benefit of the younger readers I will say that a puncheon is one of the parts of a log split in halves with one or both sides smoothed by hewing. The floors of the dwellings of the j^ioneer settlers who were fortunate enough to have any other than a dirt floor, were made of this material, as no lumber was ob tainable within one hundred miles. Windbigler's remains were some time afterwards disinterred and removed to his old home in Indiana. The same day that Windbigler was killed, Benjamin White, a frontier settler living on Granny Creek, now called White Creek, in Cloud County, was murdered by the Indians. Miss Sarah White, his daughter, a girl of sixteen, was captured and carried away into captivity. The following Februarj'^ she was rescued from the In- dians by General Sheridan, in Northern Texas, and re- stored to her friends. The next day after the massacre of Windbigler the en- tire settlement left, Mr. and Mrs. Charles going to Oak Creek, in Cloud County, some three miles east of where Concordia now stands, Lovewell and Davis going on to Clifton. Lewis and wife never returned to the settlement. Mr. and Mrs. Charles remained at Oak Creek until De- cember 19th, 1869, when they returned to Big Bend and found their log cabin and everything that was left in it in a heap of ashes. It was now mid-winter, the ground be- ing frozen to a depth of two feet, conditions which to peo- ple of less self-reliance, confidence and hopefulness would have appeared discouraging in the extreme. But "they possessed staying qualities and are both living to reap a 52 History of Republic County. golden harvest, the product of their toil aud privation. Stanfield, Lovewell and some others of the settlers returned in the spring of 1869 and came to stay. In June, 1868, a party of Indians attempted, in the daytime, to steal a horse of a settler named Horner, his team being harnessed and hitched to wagon and tied to a tree in front of his shanty. The Indians deliberately pro- ceeded to unharness the best horse. Horner ordered them to leave, which order they disregarded, whereupon he opened fire upon them from the door of the shanty, which was returned by the Indians, a bullet striking his watch, entirely ruining it, but saving the settler's life. The Indians were repulsed and fled without securing the horse. In July of the same year the Indians made an- other visit to the settlement, stealing two horses, one the property of W. R. Charles and the other belonging to W. P. Phillips, these being the only two horses in camp at the time. One afternoon in May, 1869, an attack was made on Stanfield and Phillips, who were planting corn on Stan- field's claim, a man named Teneyck acting as sentry and O. C. Davis, another settler, guarding the house, all very narrowly escaping capture. At this time Davis lost his team of mules and Stanfield saved his horses by taking them into his log house, 12x14 feet, where they remained all night in Stanfield's best room. The house was occu- pied that night by two horses, four armed men and all of Stanfield's parlor and kitchen furniture. Next morning tiring was plainly heard up the river, the cause of which was at that time unknown to the settlers. Fearing the re- turn of the Indians and a renewal of the attack, a dispatch asking for assistance was started by a special courier to Lake Sibley, where some soldiers were stationed. The dispatch bearer was a cow, which had been brought by Dan Davis from Sibley some two weeks previous, and believing that if she was turned loose, would return to that place, the dispatch was written and securely fastened History of Republic County. 53 to the cow's head with a piece of red flannel cloth to attract attention upon her arrival there. This being done, she was turned loose with the best wishes of all for a safe journey and prompt delivery of the dispatch. After wait- ing three long and wearisome days for an answer, the set- tlers decided to visit Lake Sibley and learn why their ap- peal for assistance had been unheeded. On reaching Scan- dia they found that their dispatch bearer had been inter- cepted there and milked regularly ever since her arrival, presumably by Squire Lembke, as he informed the party that he had milk in his coffee that very morning. They also found John McChesney there, the only survivor of a hunting party of seven, who were surprised by the In- dians, and after making a desperate resistence, six of their number were killed. This party was composed of John Winkelpleck and son, John McChesney, a man named Berg and three men from Michigan on a visit to friends in Mar- shall county. The McChesney who narrowly escaped by hiding in the brush until the Indians left is now a resident of Osborne county and uncle to the jovial, whole-souled John McChesney, the traveling man from Red Wing, Min- nesota, who for several years has made regular visits to Belleville and other points in this county. The cause of the firing heard by Stanfield and his party the morning after the eventful night just described was now fully ex- plained. They then decided to abandon their visit to Lake Sibley, and accompanied by McChesney go up the river to the scene of the massacre of the hunting party and bury the dead bodies as best they could. The bodies were all found and buried on the east bank of the Republican, on section 15, town 1, range 5. Other outrages of a similar character occurred in the Solomon and Saline valleys on the same day, and the people of the entire state became thoroughly aroused, those of the lower Republican valley being especially agitated, as these atrocities had been committed but a comparatively short distance from their own homes, and they promptly re- 54 History of Republic County. sponded to the call for assistance, as they had done many- times before. Dispatches having reached Gov. Crawford, notifying him of these troubles, he at once wrote the fol- lowing characteristic letter to W. P. Peake, captain of the Salt Creek MiUtia, which was received by him September 1st, 1868: State of Kansas, j Office Executive Department, V TOPEKA, August 23, 1868. ) Capt. IV. P. Peake, Salt Marsh, Kansas: Please say to the settlers of Cloud and Republic coun- ties, that I am now using every means in my power to pro- cure cavalry arms, with ammunition, from the government, and that I have notified the President that the Indians must and sJiall be driven at once out of the state, and not permitted to return. Also, that Gen. Sheridan has agreed to send troops immediately to the Saline, Solomon and Re- publican valleys for the purpose of protecting the settlers; that the people may rest assured that they will, in the fu- ture, be protected. If the government fails, the state will not, although I am seriously embarrassed on account of the present Indian policy. I hope the people will remain at their homes and not abandon the country. No possible effort will be spared to secure protection, and to relieve the wants of those who are in a destitute and suffering condition. I shall not rest until the Indians are driven out of the state; and if they return within reach of the settlements, I trust the people will dispose of them in the most summary manner. I shall endeavor to do my duty. We have submitted to these atrocities until forbearance has ceased to be a virtue. Yours Respectfully, S. J. Crawford, Governor. P. S.— Please perfect the organization of one company of militia, and have a place of general rendezvous in case of danger. S. J. Crawford. Governor Crawford served with distinction as captain in the 2nd Kansas Infantry, as captain in the 2nd Kansas Cavalry, and colonel of the 2nd Kansas Colored Infantry History of Republic Coiinfy. 55 during the war of the rebellion; was elected Governor in 1864, re-elected in 1866, resigned as Governor Novem- ber 4th, 1868, to take command of the 19th Kansas Cavalry, a regiment raised to fight the Indians. He was an earnest, active and devoted friend of the frontier settlers, very many of whom still hold him in grateful remembrance. The Indians of the plains were loath to give up their ancestral hunting grounds, and every summer camped and hunted in the Republican valley. In the spring of 1869, a party of Cheyennes and Arrapahoes came, as usual, and camped a few miles below the town of Scandia, where a small settlement had been made the previous summer. They killed buffalo, and skulked as near the settlers as safety would permit: One day in May, they raised their camp, and went off, apparently leaving the valley. The next morning the sentry on the hill left his post, his ser- vices then being no longor needed, as was supposed. Two boys, however were put to watch the settlers' horses, grazing on the townsite. Presently two Indians were seen swiftly riding down the ravine east of town. One of the boys saw their approach in time to run towards the house. The other boy, Malcolm Granstadt by name, was still at his post, till with a clubbed pistol, he was first knocked down, and then shot and killed. The horses, five in number, were driven away, and never recovered. Two of the horses taken on this occasion belonged to Robert Watson, of White Rock township. The Indians claimed that, by treaty, they had a right to perpetual occupancy of this country; and this claim they kept up until 1870, when they very reluctantly aban- doned all the country east of the Republican river, but continued their depredations for a 3^ear or two longer in the newer counties farther west. The number of persons killed and wounded by In- dians within the limits of what is now Republic county may be briefly summarized as follows: Emigrants killed in Big Bend township in 1857, five persons; wounded, two 56 History of Republic County. persons; Windbigler, killed in August, 1868; Granstadt, the Swede boy, killed in the spring of 1869; six buffalo hunters killed in Big Bend township in 1869, making a total of thirteen killed and two wounded. CHAPTER IV. FIRST LAW-SUIT IN THE COUNTY COUNTY ORG ANIZED— OFFICERS APPOINTED FIRST ELECTIONS. James E. VanNatta, the first justice of the peace in Republic county, was appointed by Gov. Crawford in 1867, holding the office four years, the first law-suit in the county being tried before him in 1869. The parties to this suit were Henry Mead, plaintiff, and Conrad Meyers, de- fendant, the suit being for damages on contract on the sale of a yoke of cattle hy Meyers to Mead. In this suit each party was his own lawyer, the nearest attorneys at that time being at Manhattan or Marysville. The law library of this county at that time consisted of the territorial laws of 1859, the session laws of 1865, the Testament and Psalms in one volume, and the Blue Laws of Connecticut, the latter being kindly furnished the court by J. C. Reiley, the first trustee of Republic precinct, then attached to Washington county. This suit was decided in accordance with the law and evidence, and no appeal taken. On account of trouble with Washington county in re- gard to the assessment and collection of taxes, the same being considered burdensome and oppressive, and having to be paid at a remote distance, led the settlers to take steps to organize the county at what has since been con- sidered too early a date. Accordingly, Mr. J. C. Reiley, the first assessor elected in the county, taking the assess- ment in June, 1868, and at the same time taking the census, with a view of securing a county organization, reported a History of Republic County. 57 population of three hundred and fifty actual residents, too small a number, the law requiring six hundred. But in August of the same year a special committee for taking the enumeration was appointed by Gov. Crawford, consist- ing of W. P. Peake and J. E. VanNatta, who, by careful counting reported a population of between six and seven hundred. The last report shows a gain of three hundred inhabi- tants in two months. Had the same percent of increase been maintained until the present time we would have been overpopulated, as there would not have been standing room in the county for all its people. I have not compu- ted the number and if any of the readers of this history are curious to know how many, they are at liberty to make the computation from the data given above. I do not say this with a view of being understood as criticising the re- port of the committee, but I still believe it took very care- ful counting to find so many people in the county at that time. In pursuance of said report. Gov. Crawford issued the following order: — State of Kansas, Executive Office, ) Topeka, September 7tb, 1868. \ Whereas, In due form of law, it has been made to appear that the county of Republic, State of Kansas, con- tains the requisite number of inhabitants to entitle the people of said county to a county organization. Now, therefore, I, Samuel J. Crawford, Governor of the State of Kansas, by virtue of authority vested in me by law (and having commissioned county officers), do here- by locate the county seat of Republic county at Pleasant Hill, in School District No. 2 in said county. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State. Done at Topeka the day and date above written. By the Governor, S. J. Crawford. R. A. Barker, Secy of State. 58 . History of Republic County. The following named persons were commissioned by the Governor, September 8th, 1868: John Harris, jr., John M. Campbell and Thomas C. Reily, county commis- sioners, and John McFarlane county clerk; and from this date Republic county takes its place among the organized counties of Kansas. The first election held in the county was prior to the county organization, and was held at J. G. Tuthill's house, at Salt Marsh, and was for township officers only, the whole county being one voting precinct and attached to Washington county. This election was held on the fourth Monday in March, 1868. This was the wrong day, but the officers chosen were subsequently appointed by the com- missioners of Washington county. The officers elected were: J. C. Reiley, trustee, James VanNatta, justice of the peace; Thomas Durant, justice of the peace; J. H. Frint, constable; Charles Campbell, constable. Whole number of votes polled, 13, of which Mr. Reily received 8, I. M. Schooley, his opponent, 5. Mr. VanNatta had no opposi- tion. Mr. Frint received 6 votes, his opponent 6, which was decided by casting lots, the office falling to Frint. A mass convention was held at Pleasant Hill, October 20th, 1868, and the first in the county, for the purpose of placing in nomination a candidate for representative in the State Legislature, and also to nominate county officers, to be supported at the November election. At this con- vention, 15 voters were present,and Capt. I. M. Schooley, be- fore mentioned, was nominated for representative, but was defeated at the polls by R. P. West, independent can- didate, by a majority of 9, Brother West receiving 37 votes and Capt. Schooley 28. It must not be forgotten, how- ever, that Brother West was a candidate for representa- tive in 1867, while we were yet attached to Washington county. There were three candidates in the field and 172 votes cast, of which S. F. Snyder received 91, R. P. West 41, and Vernon Parker, 40, Mr. Snyder being elected by a plurality of 50 votes. At the November election, 1868, the History of Republic. County. 59 following named persons were elected: R. P. West, rep- resentative; W. W. Newlon, Z. P. Rowe and John M. Campbell, county commissioners; John McParlane, county- clerk; James G. Tuthill, county treasurer; R. H. Vining, sheriff; Wm. Hardaker, surveyor; B. P. Sayler, county superintendent; John McParlane, register of deeds; Dan- iel Meyers, probate judge. The first meeting of the Board of Commissioners of which we have any record was held at Pleasant Hill, Sep- tember 29th, 1868, and the first business transacted was the division of the county into three commissioner dis- tricts as follows: — Ordered, that townships, 1, 2 and 3, of range 1, and the E 4- of townships 1, 2 and 3, of range 2, shall be one voting township, and known by the name of Parmington township; and the place of election shall be at the house of John Harris, jr., on section 3, town 3, range 1; and it was called Commissioner District No. 1. This township embraced what is now Parmington, Al- bion, Richland, and the east half of what is now Rose Creek, Fairview and Jefferson. And the W i of townships 1, 2 and 3, range 2; and townships 1, 2 and 3, of range 3; and townships 1, 2 and 3, of range 4; and townships 1, 2 and 3, of range 5, — shall be one voting township, and be known by the name of Repub- lic township, and the place of voting to be at the school house at Pleasant Hill, and was called Commissioner Dis- trict No. 2. This township embraced what is now the west half of Rose Creek, Pairview and Jefferson, all of Liberty, Free- dom, Belleville, Washington, Union, Scandia, Big Bend, White Rock and Courtland. And township 4, of range 1; township 4, of range 2; township 4, of range 3; township 4, of range 4; township 4, of range 5, — shall be one voting township, and known by the name of Grant township, the place of voting to be at 60 History of Republic County. the residence of Jas. G. Tuthill, and was called Commis- sioner District No. 3. Grant township embraced what is now Grant, Elk Creek, Lincoln, Norway and Beaver. After transacting a little other business, the Board adjourned until dark. Board met at dark, pursuant to ad- journment, and ordered that election notices be posted in the several townships, and then adjourned until the 6th day of November. Time pieces were probably somewhat scarce in Re- public county at that time, but it is safe to conclude that no mistake would be made as to the time of meeting if the adjournmeat was till dark. Pleasant Hill, November 6th, 1868. Board met in pursuance of adjournment, T. C. Reiley in the chair. At this meeting it was ordered that notices be posted for an election for permanent location of county seat. After allowing a few bills and transacting a little other unimportant business the Board adjourned. Clerk's Office, January 4th, 1869. Board of County Commissioners met, W. W. Newlon in the chair. At this meeting it was ordered that the county clerk procure blank books, stationery and a seal, necessary for the use of the county. Up to this time all the county records had been kept on legal cap paper, and the State had not yet furnished the county with the gen- eral statutes. The Board adjourned until the Statutes shall have been received. The next meeting was held March 13th, 1869, at which time the county surveyor was ordered to procure the Plats and tield notes from the General Land Office, provided they do not cost the county to exceed one hundred dollars. At this meeting two additional election precincts were created as follows: Scandia, four miles on the west side of range 4 and all of range in 5 townships 1, 2 and 3. History of Republic County. 61 Elk Creek, township 4, range 1, the south i of township 3 range 1 and a strip one mile wide, the whole length of the townships west of range 1. At the elections held in the above named precincts in April, the following township officers were elected: Farm- ington township — Edwin Enoch, trustee; John Swan, clerk; Francis McNulty, treasurer; Edwin Enoch, justice of the peace; D. S. Oliver, justiceof the peace; Z. P. Rowe, constable; R. Swan, constable; E. Enoch, road commissioner. Grant township — P. P. Way, trustee; John W. Cory, treasurer; W. Hardaker, clerk; Thomas Eckert, justice of the peace; R. Hodges, justice of the peace; H. Smock, constable; J. G. Tuthill, constable. Republic township — G. H. Jack- son, trustee; J. H. Frint, clerk; John Robins, treasurer; James E. VanNatta, justice of the peace; Joseph Myers, justice of the peace; H. A. Meade, constable; G. W. Wilcox, constable. Elk Creek township — John Manning, trustee; W. H. Willoughby, clerk; G. S. Willoughby, treasurer; Reuben James, justice of the peace; John Jarrett, con- stable; Marion Harper, road commissioner. Scandia precinct held no election. This was the first election for township officers after the organization of the county. At a meeting of the Board held April 9th, 1869, Wil- liam Milburn and H. A. Cheney were appointed as assistant school examiners, being the first appointments of the kind in the county, B. P. Sayler being at the time County Sup- erintendent. Pleasant Hill, July 5th, 1869. Board of commissioners met; quorum present. At this meeting a tax of ten mills on the dollar was levied on the taxable property of the county for a general fund. This was the first tax levy made in the county. The total valuation for that year was: Real Estate I 5590 00. Personal Property 25620 10. Total $ 31210 10. 62 History of Republic County. And the amount of taxes thereon for state, county and school purposes was $801.61. The largest individual tax- payer on personal property for that year was C. M. Way, of Grant township, who paid $63.38 on a valuation of $1950. August 22nd, 1870, the county officers, with the ex- ception of probate judge were ordered to remove all books, papers and records pertaining to their respective offices, to Belleville within twenty days of the order. This order was rescinded September 6th, and the time extended until the first Monday in October, 1870, when for the first time the county records were to be found at the present county seat. These records were very meager and con- sisted of the minutes of the Board of Commissioners and the tax rolls of 1868 and 1869. The county clerk's office was on the second floor of a small wooden building on the southwest corner of the pub- lic square, the lower floor being occupied by Dr. J. C. Griffith as a drug store. The county treasurer's office was in a general store kept by Dixon & Bowling on the present site of the Hardy block, Captain A. Shaw, being deputy county treasurer. In the spring of 1871, the county clerk's office was moved into a small wooden building about 14x16 feet, on the south side of the square, about where J. M. Doyle's furniture store now stands. This building was occupied jointly by the county clerk and the clerk of the district court. The register of deed's office was in the store of Vantrump & Hallowell, the present site of the State bank, Vantrump being deputy register of deeds. The sheriff's office, county attorney's office and the office of the probate judge were anywhere these officers could be found, some- times in town, but more frequently in the country. The old stone school house was built in the summer and fall of 1871, and soon after its completion, the second story, all in one room, was rented by the county for county offices at $200 per annum, the right of holding church services therein being reserved by the school board. History of Republic County. 63 The county officers remained here until the comple- tion of the first courthouse, which is described in another chapter. « CHAPTER V, PERMANENT LOC\TI0N OF iTHE COUNTY SEAT AND THE TROUBLES ATTENDING IT. As stated in a previous chapter, Gov. Crawford named Pleasant Hill, in school Dist. No. 2, as the temporary county seat. This location was on the N i of SE i, section 18, in Jefferson township, the land now being owned by W. P. Peake. At the election in 1869, the permanent location of the county seat was voted on with the following result: BeUeville 59 New Scandinavia 42 SE i section 17, town 4. range 1 4 Salt Marsh 1 Belleville having received a majority over all, was de- clared the permanent county seat. This election was, without doubt, honestly conducted and fairly expressed the wishes of the voters of the county. At a meeting of the Commissioners, held at Pleasant Hill, January 3rd, 1870, after transacting some business, on motion, the Board adjourned to meet at Belleville in case the court house was finished ; if not, to meet at the residence of P. P. Way, county clerk. Pursuant to ad- journment, the Board met at Belleville, April 4th, 1870, being the first time they met here in an official capacity. After appointing J. H. Print chairman pro tern, adjourned to meet at the residence of P. P. Way, in Grant township, April 8th, thecourt house in Belleville not being completed. The court house here alluded to, was the little log school house built on the east side of the public square, in 64 History of Republic Countv. the summer of 1870. There is no record of any business being transacted at the meeting held April 8th. The next meeting of the Board at Belleville was July 2nd, 1870, at which session a petition was presented pray- ing for a new election on the county seat. The petition containing the requisite number of names to meet the re- quirements of the law, it was ordered that an election be held on the third Tuesday in August ; in accordance with the prayer of the petitioners. The election was held as ordered, there being three candidates in the field, — ^Belle- ville, Salt City and New Scandinavia, — and the Commis- sioners met at Belleville, August 20th, to canvass the vote. The county commissioners at this time were John H. Frint, of Jefferson township, chairman, and a steadfast friend of Belleville; George W. Johnson, of Elk Creek, and Z. P. Rowe, of Parmington. One R. A. Hamill, of Belle- ville township, kept the minutes of this meeting, he hav- ing been appointed deputy county clerk some time pre- vious. Mr. Hamill was an eccentric genius, dividing his time betweenfarming, politics, school teaching and preach- ing, also being quite partial to Himoe's and Red Jacket bitters. A fairly well educated man, a little careless about his spelling at times, and as a preacher ranked above the average, but his conduct not always harmonizing with his profession, his most ardent admirers never claiming that his religion, at its best ever reached eighteen carats fine. The following record of the proceedings are given in Mr. Hamill's original and peculiar style: 1. Canvass of Farmington township was called and result declared, for Belleville, 33 votes; Salt City, 7. 2. Elk Creek township called and result declared, for Salt City, 29; Belleville, 6. 3. Albion township, no votes cast, the citizens of that township not being able to find a voting place. ■4. Rose Creek, for Belleville, 17. 5. Salt Marsh precinct called. Result, for Salt City, 3; Belleville, 11; New Scandinavia, 3. History of Republic County. 65 Returns from White Rock were opened, and on motion of G. W. Johnson, the board refused to count the vote of the precinct for two causes: (1.) The voting precinct was declared illegally- formed in that the board had not granted an or- der for such voting precinct while in session. (2.) There had been an order signed by two members of the board and sent to White Rock without the knowledge of the other member, and without any notification of the fact to the county clerk until five days before the election. (3.) There were no notices of any election posted in the precinct. These seem to be tolerably fair reasons for rejecting the votes of White Rock, although the vote was heavy and nearly solid for Belleville. On motion of G. W.Johnson, there was a hearing given to certain parties from White Rock who were legal voters, and an abstract of their evidence of "Frauds Perpetrated" was ordered to be filed in the clerk's office; voted unanim- ously. The board declared in the acknowledgment of strong evidences of fraud and one case of apparent repeat- ing. On motion for the entire rejection, G. W. Johnson and Z. P. Rowe voted for the motion. J. H. Frint entered his protest against the second clause, declaring his opinion to be that the board had no jurisdiction over the matter, but must simply count out the ballots, and declare the re- sult without regard to the nature of the vote. 6. Scandinavia precinct called. Result, for New Scandinavia, 79. 7. The Republic precinct called. Result, for Belle- ville, 238; New Scandinavia, 4; Salt City, 1, Total number of votes polled, 468, of which Belleville received 305 ; New Scandinavia, 86 ; Salt City, 72. Thus it appears that the Scandinavians were solid for New Scandinavia, the Bellevilleians nearly the same for Belleville, while the denizens of the Marsh divided their strength between the three places. 66 History of Republic County. On motion of G. W. Johnson, the board ordered that Mr. Baker, Mr. Blankenship, G. Paulson, H. Wallen and Mr. Blunk, be sworn as to evidences of partiality and fraudulent voting. Ordered that an abstract of the evi- dence be filed in the clerk's office. Board then adjourned until 7 a. m. of the following day. Board met pursuant to adjournment, and proceeded to discuss the final acceptance or rejection of the poll books from Republic precinct; and, after a tedious attempt at a decision, the board adjourned until one o'clock, at which time Mr. Frint made the following proposition: Throw out all the votes of Republic precinct except 100, and declare the decision on the remaining number of polled votes in the county, or throw out the entire vote of the coun- ty as incorrect and fraudulent, and immediately order a new election. After much argument and many attempts at reconciliation of the whole board on one of the points named, Mr. Frint and Mr. Rowe cast their votes for the first jDroposition — that is, to count 100 votes from Repub- lic precinct and reject the balance. I suppose this was considered a compromise; yet it located the county seat at Belleville just as effectually as though the entire vote had been counted. I here give the concluding portion of the record in Mr. Hamill's own phraseology, spelling and punctuation: "Mr. Rowe requested the minutes of the following causes of action in the case and decision of made Con- siders the poll book alarmingly fraudulent and evidences of partiality and misdemeanor in the action of the judges of election — but thinks his judgment is that certain voters who were legally entitled to the same should be represent- ed and therefore gives his consent to the admission of the 100 votes. Com missioner Johnson declared his desire to re- cord his name against the whole procedure as destruc- tive to the declaration of the popular vote of the people — and that the people could be defended only by an entire and sweeping rejection of the poll books of every precinct History of Republic County. 67 known to be illegal in any part or parcel of the action of the officers of that election especially where such a glare- ing inconsistency stood so open to every honest Man." As before stated, the vote of the county in November, 1868, was65 votes; inNovember, 1869, 123votes;atthecounty seat election in August, 1870, 463 votes, with Albion and White Rock not counted. This shows a remarkable in- crease in the voting population, and it is barely possible that this increase may not have been entirely healthy, as we find the vote of the county at the November election, 1870, with Albion's 30 votes and White Rock's 40 counted, to be 322, or 141 less than were polled at the county seat election. Soon after the result of the county seat election was declared, J. S. Tutton, T. A. Eberhard, and T. C. Smith, judges of the election at Belleville, were politely in- vited to appear before Thomas J. Eckert, a justice of the peace at SaJt Marsh, charged with conduct unbecoming officers and gentlemen and especially as judges of election. In fact it was charged that gross frauds had been com- mitted at the election, that the purity of the ballot box had been invaded, and these officers were charged with complicity in the same. It will be remembered that, at this time, the office of probate judge was vacant, Judge Meyers having resigned some time before; and, in view of the circumstances, it was thought best by the citizens of Belleville, and especially by the prisoners, we suppose, that this vacancy should be filled. Accordingly, A. B. Tutton, as special messenger, was dispatched to Topeka, bearing a petition to Gov. Harvey, asking the appointment of our esteemed fellow citizen, Dr. J. C.Griffith, to this posi- tion. It is, perhaps, unnecessary to state that this petition was not largely signed by the citizens of Salt Marsh, but the signatures were probably procured in other portions of the county. Gov. Harvey acted on the petition at once, granting the same, and the special courier returned just in time to find the Eckert court in the act of committing the prisoners to 68 History of Republic County. jail. It must be borne in mind that jail accommodations were not as fine in those days as at the present time, and the prisoners were loath to be torn from the bosoms of their families, and incarcerated in a dungeon located in Washington county. Accordingly, the kindly offices of A. F. Heely, who now appeared on the stage, were invoked, a writ of habeas corpus issued by the probate court, and the prisoners brought to Belleville, before Judge Griffith, for trial. Now the scene is changed, no witnesses on the part of the prosecution appear, and when the prisoners are ar- raigned, the court, no doubt, in the language of one of old, is led to exclaim : "Where are those thine accusers?" But writs of attachment are issued to compel the attendance of the now unwilling witnesses, and, when all was ready, the case was called. A. J. Banta, of Washington county, coun- sel for the prosecution, addressed the court in substan- tially the following manner: "While at Salt Marsh and in 'Squire Eckert's court, I thought I had a case ; but now the scene is changed, and, with this change of scene, grave doubts arise in my mind as to my ability to convict these prisoners, therefore, if the court please, we desire to very gently intimate to the court that it has our permission to dismiss this suit." There being no opposition to this sug- gestion, it was acted on, the pipe of peace was passed and smoked, and all parties acquiesced in the decision. Thus it appears that, after a season of considerable excitement, some sectional bitterness, and probably a little tall voting, the county seat was established at Belleville, where it has since immovably reposed, although the question of relocat- ing was again agitated in October and November, 1881, by the circulation of petitions asking the commissioners to call an election for that purpose. Quite a large number of names were secured and some little excitement created. This agitation was kept up until May, 1882, when the matter was dropped and has not since been talked of. History of Republic County. 69 CHAPTER VL SOIL - CLIMATE — STREAMS — TIMBER — LIMESTONE— COAL - SALT- WATER POWER, RAIN-FALL— ETC., ETC. The general surface of the county is undulating, a very small per cent being what would be termed bluflfy, broken or hilly. The soil on the upland is a rich, black vegetable mould, very fertile and underlaid with a subsoil of porous clay, so that it is well adapted to either wet or dry seasons; the river bottom land is very rich, containing quite a large per cent of sand, together with the usual deposits of bot- toms. The creek bottom lands are less sandy aixd more nearly resemble the upland. About ten per cent of the land is river and creek bot- toms and ninety per cent what is usually termed high prairie. The county is very well watered, there being living streams in nearly every township, the Republican river being the principal one. As a mill stream it is not considered so valuable as many smaller ones, owing to its broad channel, with a bottom of shifting sand. Some of the most desirable land in all Kansas is to be found in its valley. It traverses the entire western portion of the county, the average width of the bottom lands being two miles. White Rock, Beaver and Oak creeks are its princi- pal tributaries from the west, while Otter, Dry, School and other small creeks flow into it from the east; West, Reily, Salt, Coal, East, Upton and Elk creeks, flow south into the Republican river, draining the southeastern portion of the county. Mill and Cherry creeks flow east and Rose creek northeast, out of the county. These streams have numer- ous tributaries, all of which, with the main streams, are belted with timber from ten to eighty rods in width, con- sisting of oak, ash, black walnut, hackberry, red and white elm, box elder and cottonwood. Some writers have placed 70 History of Republic County. hickory in the list, but I do not believe there is a hickory- tree in Republic county, at any rate I have never seen one. About five per cent of the area of the county is natural forest. In some places the larger timber has been cut, and its place is being filled with young oak, ash and walnut trees, which grow with great rapidity. Great attention has been paid to artificial forestry, there being on the first of March, 1901, 2663 acres growing, consisting of walnut, ash, elm, maple and other varieties, all of which grow with wonderful rapidity, and in a few years we will have all the timber needed for fence posts and fuel. Nearly every farm has its artificial grove, which adds greatly to the beauty of the landscape. These streams are distributed in such a manner as to give more or less timber to every township in the county. Well water is obtained at a depth of from ten to one hun- dred feet, according to locality, and fine, flowing springs are quite numerous. Notwithstanding all these facts, the country lying west of the 6th principal meridian, of which Republic county forms a part, had, up to the year 1870, borne a bad reputation as to its ability to support a civi- lized population; and prior to that time a few settlers, who had selected their homes along the streams west of that line, could scarcely say they had done so for the purpose of becoming permanent settlers, a large portion of the country being regarded as a desert, for all practical pur- poses ; and even as late as 1874 it was a debatable question whether the country would not have to be abandoned to the grasshoppers, coyotes, owls and rattlesnakes. But, thanks to the persistent efforts of an active and indus- trious population, a genial climate and fertile soil, all these questions are now forever set at rest. Magnesian limestone of most excellent quality is found in large quantities in almost every township in the county. I know of no other country having such an abundant sup- ply of building rock and so large a proportion of tillable land. This rock is of a light gray color, quite soft, easily History of Republic County. 71 quarried and easily worked. It is almost entirely free from grit, can be easily sawed with any kind of a saw without injury to the instrument more than if used in wood. This rock is very valuable for building purposes, makes an excellent quality of lime, and good building sand is found in almost every neighborhood. Several of the most substantial buildings in the county are built of this rock, including the opera house block in Belleville, the school house in Scandia, the basement of the court house, and many farm residences in different parts of the county. The great abundance of this rock, the trifling expense of quarrying, the facility with which it is shaped for masonry, compensate in no small degree for the lack of lumber. And sandstone is found in abundance in the southeastern por- tion of the county, which possesses all the characteristics of a reliable building stone; but it is not as popular as the magnesia, as it is not as easily worked. COAL, SALT, ETC. The southern one-third of the county is underlaid with coal, said to be of the lignite variety, although the pro- priety of thus classifying it has been questioned. It is probably of more recent origin than the anthracite bitu- minous coal of the proper coal series. It is tough rather than brittle, and cannot be easily broken except in hori- zontal layers. The veins are from sixteen to thirty in- ches in thickness, and are found beneath a firm layer of sandstone, which forms a good roof in mining. These mines have been worked since 1870, and have furnished the principal fuel supply for a large scope of country; and this coal has been extensively used for making steam in grist mills, although it has been rejected by the railroads on account of the large proportion of ashes it leaves, thus clogging the grates in the locomotive. The coal is sold at the mines at an average of two dollars and fifty cents per ton. It does not kindle readily, but burns well when ig- nited, makes a hot fire, produces no soot, burns to pure ashes and leaves no clinkers. If exposed to the weather 72 History of Republic County. for any considerable length of time it has a tendency to slack like lime, which greatly impairs its value. Coal of a good quality was mined as early as February, 1872, on the SE^of section 7, the claim of P. L. Norlun in Grant town- ship. A considerable quantity of this coal was hauled to Belleville by John Forney and sold for six dollars per ton — three dollars for mining and three dollars for the haul- ing. These prices would indicate a scarcity of fuel. This mine was worked one season only, being abandoned by reason of water flooding the mine. Within a short distance of these coal fields is situated one of the most extensive salt marshes in the country, commonly known as the "Tuthill Marsh," and is adjacent to the old town site of Seapo. This marsh embraces an area of about 4,000 acres, and wells of brine are obtained at a depth of six feet. Sixty-five gallons of this brine pro- duce a bushel of salt of unequaled purity, a chemical analysis, by Professor Mudge, showing less than two and a half per cent of impurities. It contains no chloride of lime, — a very bad impurity, found in all the salt manufac- tured in New York, Michigan and West Virginia. Profes- sor Taylor, Massachusetts' State Assayer, also made an analysis of this salt and reported it to be of a most excel- lent quality. The salt water rises to near the surface, evaporates and leaves a crust of pure salt, which, at all times in dry weather, can be scraped up and taken away. One hundred bushels of this earthy salt, diluted and evap- orated, will produce seventy-five bushels of clean, white salt. Borings have been made here — one to the depth of sixty feet and another two hundred and sixty feet; the latter threw up a column of brine five feet in height and three inches in thickness. It is hard to tell why capital has not been invested here to utilize this mine of wealth. Another marsh of about the same extent is found in Beaver township, near the southwest corner of the county, but no analysis of the brine has ever been made that I am aware of. History of Republic County. 73 WATER POWER. In this respect Republic county is not highly favored, although there is good water power on White Rock creek, in White Rock township, where a large flouring mill was built in 1878 by Geo. R. Thacker, wholly a water power mill, with Turbine wheel and three run of stone, two for wheat and one for corn. A forty horse-power engine was put in by Fred Cooper in 1881, so that the mill could be kept running during low water, which sometimes occurs during the months of August and September. Also on the Republican river about a mile above Scandia, utilized for several years by C. F. Ericson's large flouring mill; also on the river at Rocky Ford, near Republic City, which has never been utilized. There is also most excellent water power on Salt creek, on the SW \ of section 6, in Grant township, which could be utilized at a very small expense for dam, and water sufficient to run a mill of con- siderable capacity the greater part of the year. CLIMATE. The climate of northern Kansas does not differ materi- ally from that of the western slope of the Alleghany moun- tains and of states farther east, lying along and immedi- ately below the fortieth parallel of north latitude. Like all of these states, it has its extremes of heat and cold, but in a somewhat modified form, being modified as it is by latitude, altitude and proximity to the Rocky Mountain range. It is not far enough south to be enervating, nor far enough north for the rigorous and benumbing influ- ences of a northern climate. In short, it is a happy com- promise between the two. It is true that the climate of a prairie country is more variable than that of a timbered country, and the sweeping winds of winter on the high prairies are sometimes quite searching, but the severity of the winter winds is more than compensated by the salubrity and the generally agreeable character of the breezes of summer. In the most sultry July and August 74 History of Republic County. weather our nights are cool, usually inviting pleasant re- pose. Besides, the climate is remarkably healthy, being far more free from bilious diseases than localities in the same latitude farther east, and consumption is seldom or never contracted in this country. Our summers are longer than the average summers of other states in the same lati- tude and our winters shorter. RAINFALL. This subject has nearly ceased to be one of anxious in- quiry by the emigrant seeking a home on what Olney's Geography taught him was a barren and sandy desert. The crop statistics, given elsewhere in this book, must set at rest all doubts as to the sufficiency of the rainfall here for all the needs of agriculture. Below we give the obser- vations of the rainfall at Belleville for the years 1872 and 1873, reported for the Smithsonian Institute by A. A.. Carr, who was furnished with standard instruments by that institution for ascertaining the rainfall, temperature, etc. Mr. Carr was also a special reporter for the State Board of Agriculture from Belleville for the years named: BellevUle, Republic county. Latitude, 39 degrees 50 minutes. Longitude grees 40 minutes. Altitude, 1,540 feet above sea level. 97d.e Tan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May. June July. Aug. Sept. Oct. Nov. Dec. Total 90 0.10 1872 18?3 00 0.49 0.50 2.. 30 5.04 3.59 8.91 1 5S 6.60 6.62 0.92 2.03 1.90 3.30 3.05 1.47 0.84 .00 0.30 .00 1 10 22.29 28 76 Crops of all kinds for the two years named were abundant, although the rainfall was far below the average, as compared with the twenty-eight years succeeding the above report, which proves conclusively that crops do not so much depend on the amount of rain as on its distribu- tion, a small rainfall, evenly distributed during the grow- ing season, being far more desirable than a large amount unfavorably distributed. The rainfall for 1874 was above the normal during the spring months, being 16 57-100 inches, including snow fall to the depth of twelve inches during the month of History of Republic County. 75 February, and no spring opened with brighter prospects since Republic county has been settled. The drouth set in June loth and continued seventy-nine days, the temper- ature being high for the entire period, reaching 110 de- grees on July 115th, which with the grasshoppers made it one of the worst seasons ever experienced in Kansas, al- though the crops of small grain were exceptionally good that year. On the night of September 1st the heavens opened and rain fell in abundance from that time on, there being sixteen rainy days in the month of September, with a rainfall of almost eight inches for the month, badly dam- aging hay and grain in stacks, a loss which the farmers were illy prepared to stand. The rainfall for the entire year was considerably above the average but unevenly distributed. The grasshopper visitation came on Sunday, July 26th, a few, however, having made their appearance in some localities the day previous. About eleven o'clock great clouds of them began to make their appearance from the northeast, and although the day was cloudless the sun was almost obscured by myriads of moving pests. No pen picture I can make can convey to the understanding of a person who did not see them; the immense and enor- mous amount of grasshoppers that visited Republic county that year. Imagine, if you please, a blinding snow storm where a foot of snow falls in a few hours and that for every snow flake, there were at least three grasshoppers, then you can begin to form some faint conception of their numbers. They were the most hungry crowd that ever visited Kansas. Every green thing that suited their tastes vanished in an incredible short time, onions, red peppers and tobacco, being especially relished by them, sorghum cane being about the only thing they spared. Many stories were told of their voracious appetites, but I do not vouch for the truth of all of them. One man in- formed me "that he had to hitch his team to the wagon and run it all day to keep them from eating the wagon 76 History of Republic County. tires." Another says "he saw fifteen or twenty of them pull up a corn stock and tly off with it, eating as they went along." Another, that "after they had stripped off all the leaves, they would pull up the stalks, sit back on their hinder most, and swallow them whole." Another, "that they were so thick in his field that there was not room for one-half of them on the stalks, consequently a general row arose, and they commenced pulling up the corn stalks and beating each other to death, by which means he saved some of his corn." And still another, "that they ate the handle and commenced to eat the tines of his pitchfork." And lastly, "that after devouring every green thing on the place, they formed in line on the ridge board of his house and very complacently picked their teeth with shingle nails they had drawn from the roof . " The above stories are probably slightly exaggerated. CHAPTER Vn, WIND STORMS, TORNADOES AND CYCLONES. One of the severest storms ever known in this part of Kansas, although it could not properly be denominated a cyclone, swept over Republic county on the night of Sun- day, April 13th, 1873., After a heavy wind all day, and as night approached, big, black clouds could be seen in the western sky, and the vivid lightning and distant thunder warned our people of its near approach. The rain fell as if the flood gates of heaven had been opened, reminding one very forcibly of a little shower that occurred in ancient times. About ten o'clock it turned into hail, which lasted but a few minutes, when a blinding snow storm set in, continuing until Tuesday noon. The wind possessed such terrible force as to move the largest buildings from their foundations, and to dash the smaller buildings to pieces. The art gallery of F. M. Hopkins, in Belleville, was utterly History of Republic County. 77 demolished. The wind was so searching as to drive the snow through the cracks and crevices of the houses. Great loss was experienced among the farmers in the destruc- tion of their stock, occasioned by the severity of the storm. One of the saddest events which has ever happened in this county, and which draped the whole community in mourning, occurred while the gale was at its height. Two families lost their most loved members, eight in num- ber. The house of Mr. Crane, one of our most estimable citizens, who was absent from home, was burned on Saturday, and his family — a wife and four children — took shelter in the residence of Mr. Bennett. On Monday night the hurricane took off the roof of the house, a stone one, and blew in the gable end, crushing the floor, causing it to fall into the cellar, where the family had taken shelter from the fury of the elements. Mrs. Bennett was severely injured. When morning dawned Mr. Bennett proceeded to the house of the nearest neigh- bor to obtain help. He was unable to procure it, and made his way to the next house, where he succeeded in getting assistance. Upon his return a most terrible sight greeted his eyes. There, in the chilling embrace of death, lay his wife and three children, together with Mrs. Crane and two of her children. A boy and girl of Mrs. Crane's were still alive, and Mr. Bennett carried them to the residence of the nearest neighbor, at which place the boy died for want of timely assistance. The little girl recovered. What the feelings of Mr. Bennett, as a husband, father and friend were, can but be imagined. Mr. Crane's house was on the NW i of section 15, later known as the George Henek farm, now owned by Gus Kauffman, in Jefferson township, and Mr. Ben- nett's, where this sad catastrophe occurred, was on the NE \ of section 11, in the same township. Since the first settlement of the county it has been visited by only a few of what may, with propriety, be termed genuine tornadoes, none of which have proved 78 History of Republic County. very destructive to life, only one person having been killed and one or two slightly injured, but the property losses have been quite severe. The first occurred May 30, 1879, the day of the Irving disaster, in Marshall county, and the cyclone at Delphos, in Ottawa county. The storm struck Belleville from the northwest, carried away a few chim- neys, unroofed a few buildings, moved a few others from their foundations, including the "Duck elevator" * on the west side of the public square. At this place it was simply a high wind and showed none of the essential characteris- tics of a cjT'clone. Prom Belleville it moved nearly due east and it was not till it reached Tom Harkness' jilace that it commenced to cut its curious capers, taking his fanning mill, rending it into hundreds of pieces, and scattering them over a wide extent of territory. Portions of this mill were found one-half mile north, other pieces more than a mile south, and still other portions one and one-half miles east of where it was standing when the storm took possession of it. Passing on to the east, it moved Prairie Home school house from its foundations, but without doing much dam- age to the building. Still further east, it struck Ernest Cole's house, sweeping it away, leaving nothing but the floor and cooking stove, without injuring Mrs. Cole and the little one, who were in the house at the time. A family by the name of Matthews, emigrants, were just going into camp, near Mr. Cole's house, when the storm struck the wagon, rolling it over and over on the prairie, instantly killing a son of Mr. Matthews, a boy about fourteen years of age. The funeral of the Matthews boy was held at the res- idence of Al. Brown in Fairview township, Rev. A. N. See officiating. * The "Duck elevator" was a one-story wooden building standing on the pres- ent site of the opera house block, used by Vantrump & Hallowell as a poultry house In which fowls of all kinds were l^ept, while awaiting shipment. It was so named by J. E. Hallowell a member of the firm. History of Republic County. 79 Still further east, it moved the Farmington school house from its foundation, carried it about thirty feet to the east and damaged it considerably. Still further on, it picked up Richard Rowe's wagon, which was standing near his house, carried it away and completely destroyed it, without disturbing anything else on his place. This storm moved in a due east course for miles, was accom- panied by sharp lightning, heavy thunder and an unusu- ally heavy fall of rain, and, in places, hail. The second tornado visited Elk Creek township. May 25, 1880, striking the school house in district No. 5 about 6 o'clock in the afternoon, completely demolishing it. The funnel-shaped cloud, minutely described by several wit- nesses, when first seen, was moving in a northeasterly course, but, after destroying the school house, moved due east, striking Mrs. Streeter's house, damaging it but shghtly. After leaving Mrs. Streeter's it again moved to the northeast, doing no further damage. Its track was narrow, at no place exceeding a rod in width, and could be distinctly traced by the appearance of the grass, which presented the appearance of having been scorched. It lifted and carried away the sods from land newly broken, was accompanied by a light fall of rain, but no thunder or lightning. The school house had been built but two years, and was a substantial structure. .June 24th, 1894, will long be remembered by the citi- zens of Republic county as a day in which high winds, with cyclonic variations, ran riot in a greater portion of the county, the most damage being done between 5 p. m. and sundown. The general direction of the storm was from the southwest to the northeast, paying very little attention to the rules governing cyclones, but cavorted around in an indiscriminate manner and many places doing its work in a very effective way. The Republic County Mutual Fire Insurance Com- pany suffered more severely from this storm than from any other either before or since. I shall never forget the week 80 History of Republic County. following when in company with F. M. Johnson, then Presi- dent of the company, we as a committee to adjust losses, traveled from the southwest corner of the county to the northeast, working from seven a. m. to nine p. m., driving more than two hundred miles, adjusting twenty-five loss- es, the weather being as hot as it ever gets in Kansas. I believe I am safe in saying that this was the hardest week's work ever done by any two officers of the company since its organization. A genuine twister on a small scale visited Belleville on the afternoon of June 6th, 1899, but fortunately no one was killed or seriously injured. The fore part of the day was damp and chilly with some rain- fall and the afternoon continued cold with heavy rain, but at no time did that peculiar hot sultry condition of the at- mosphere exist that usually precedes a cyclone, hence no one was expecting a diversion of that nature. About four o'clock while it was raining about as hard as it ever does in Kansas, a wind cloud came from the southeast passing over the M. E. church, descending rapidly as it traveled northwest. When it reached T. N. Short's black- , smith shop it was low enough to scrape off a few shingles without otherwise damaging the building. About eighty feet north of the shop stood a substantial one-story brick building 22x50 feet owned by J. A. Mosher and occujDied by L. D. Speenburg as a meat market, and there is where the little twister gave an object lesson in the power and peculiarities of that apparently useless and dangerous combination of nature's elements known as a cyclone. The building seems to have been crushed as one would crush an egg shell in the hand, the greater portion of the debris lying in the cellar. Ordinarily, the debris is considerably scattered, but not so in this case, and the fact that it did no damage elsewhere indicates that after smashing the Mosher building it suddenly rose above the other buildings in the immediate vicinity and got out of town as rapidly as it came in. The fact that build- ings north and south in the immediate vicinity, w^ere History of Republic County. 81 scarcely shaken, makes it evident that the force — whatever it was — descended almost perpendicularly and as suddenly rose again. The last visit of this kind was on Sunday May 6th 1900. This storm struck the residence of J. C. Roberts in Norway township, shortly after 7 p. m., completely de- stroying it, then rose taking a northeast course passing within easy view of Belleville, descending again about 7:30 p. m. upon the residence of John Pachta, about 4i miles east of town, almost literally demolishing it. Mrs. Pachta was the only person about the premises at the time, and on the approach of the storm which was heralded by a loud roaring sound, had the presence of mind to take shelter in a cave in the rear of the cellar, thus saving her life. The storm after doing about all the damage it could at Pachta's passed on to the northeast, moving the barn of Tony Broct but slightly, next striking the farm of Tony Lesovsky, where the storm seemed to vent all its fury, tearing up and carrying away the buildings, leaving the place divested of everything looking like a home; apple trees from six to eight inches in diameter were torn from the ground and. carried away, leaving large holes in the earth where they had stood. Mr. Lesovsky and family on the approach of the storm took shelter in the cave all escaping injury ex- cepting Mr. Lesovsky, who had a finger crushed in closing the door of the cave. CHAPTER Vm, RAILROADS. A proposition to extend aid to the Central Branch of the Union Pacific Railway in the sum of $100,000 bearing in- terest at seven per cent., and running thirty years, con- ditioned that said railway company shall extend its line from Waterville to the center of Republic county on or be- 82 History of Rcpiihlic County. fore July 4th, 1873, and build and maintain a depot at said place, and to further construct said railway and have the cars running thereon to the Republican valley in said county of Republic, on or before the 31st day of Decem- ber, 1873, was voted on in the several voting precincts of said county on the 7th day of October, 1871, with the fol- lowing result: TOWNSHire. Albion Fairview . . . Farmington Freedom Elk Creek . . FOB. 1.T 41 42 91 5 n 4 1 AGAINST. 10 14 4 32 47 19 TOWNSHIPS. Norway Richland ■ • • Scandia — Rose Creek... FOR. 36 5 3 22 13 111 AGAINST . 42 1 78 38 21 Grant Lincoln Liberty White Rock . . Belleville 54 1 Total 4C3 383 Majority in favor of the proposition, twenty. This was the first railroad bond election held in the county. No bonds were issued as the railroad company failed to comply with the terms named in the proposition, greatly to the disappointment of the people of the county. At a called meeting of the citizefhs of Republic county held at Belleville, April 26th, 1878, for the purpose of tak- ing into consideration the proper steps to be taken to se- cure a railroad, the following named persons were chosen as a committee to visit Kansas City to confer with the of- ficers of the Kansas Pacific railroad and the Kansas City Board of Trade in relation to railroad matters: namely, Hon. W. H. Pilkenton, I. O. Savage, Ed. E. Chapman, Dr. W. H. Woodward, William Haskett, Col. D. C. Gamble, M. Patrie and H. S. Stone. All the members of this com- mittee, with the exception of Col. Gamble, left for Kansas City the following Monday and were successful in their mission, securing from the Kansas Pacific Railway Com- pany the following proposition which was submitted to the Board of County Commissioners in special session, June 4th, 1878. The company proposed to extend its line from Clifton northwest, entirely through the county, to build and maintain a depot within one mile of the then- thriving town of Seapo, one as near as practicable to the History of Republic County. 83 city of Belleville, one as near as practicable to the mouth of White Rock Creek, and one at the then-prosperous village of White Rock, with flag stations at convenient intermedi- ate points, conditioned that the county subscribe to the capital stock of said railway in the sum of four thousand dollars per mile, but not to exceed in the aggregate one hundred and thirty thousand dollars, the bonds to run thirty years at eight per cent, the road to be completed to Belleville by the first day of January, 1879, and through the county by January 1st, 1880. On presentation of a proper and lawful petition, the Board of Commissioners ordered a special election held July 13th, one thousand dollars having been deposited by the company with county treasurer, Crummer, to defray the expenses of the election. The vote was canvassed July 16th, and the fol- lowing result announced: TOWNSHIPS. FOR. A(;.\INST. TOWNSHIPS. FOB. AG.\INST Albion 4 59 Liberty 41 13 Beaver 71 Lincoln 64 37 Belleville . 161 13 Norway 3 88 Big Bend 2^, 33 Richland 11 87 Courtland . , . 116 Rose (reek... 15 84 E!k Cre'^k 18 HI Scandia 15 135 tairview 57 40 Union 48 63 Farniington .SO 71 Washington — 47 21 Freedom . 126 4 White Rock... 2 95 Graat lOS 4 — Jefferson 75 9 Total 850 J 126 And thus what seemed to me at the time, to be one of the best propositions ever submitted by any railroad com- pany to the voters of Republic county, and after a lapse of nearly a quarter of a century, my views on this question remain unchanged, was defeated by a majority of two hun- dred and seventy-six. My reasons for entertaining these views are, that at that time Seapo was quite an important trading point, and, had the road been built and a depot es- tablished there, it w^ould have held and constantly in- creased its trade, and by this time, in my opinion, would have been a city of fifteen hundred people. On the con- trary the town went to decay, has been wiped off the map, and the best energies of the citizens of two townships of this county have been devoted to building up a town in an 84 History of Republic County. adjoining county, which, without their support and patron- age, would have been today only a flag station. And Belle- ville, with a population of two thousand, would have had at least twice that number, but, worst of all, was the fate of White Rock, which, for years, was by far the most pros- perous town in Republic county, and which, had this road been built, would have remained so, being situated in the midst of one of the most beautiful and fertile valleys in the state of Kansas, the settlement in its neighborhood being rapid, and without any particular design or effort a town of considerable importance grew up here, having its full complement of establishments devoted to trade and the mechanical pursuits and the best water power in the county, which at one time was utilized by a saw and grist mill, both of which did a flourishing and thriving business, but like Seapo, it went into a decline and per- ished from the earth, all by reason of failing to secure a railroad, which was easily within its reach had its citizens been governed by good sense and sound reasoning, in- stead of allowing selfishness, jealousy and prejudice to control their action. The voters of White Rock claimed that inorder to further their interests, they must oppose the bonds, but how any man or set of men can further their interests by cutting their own throats, is a proposition I have never been able to understand. Had White Rock, Big Bend and Courtland given reasonably fair majorities for the bonds they would have carried, the road would have been built and Republic county, instead of a population of eighteen thousand, would have had today at least twenty- five thousand, with White Rock as its leadingcity. RAILROAD LINES. There are seven lines of railroads in the county having a total mileage of one hundred and forty miles, exclusive of side tracks, being exceeded by only fourteen counties in the state. The first road to build into the county was the Atchison, Republican Valley & Pacific, now known as the Missouri Pacific. This road enters the county on the History of Republic County. 85 south line of section thirty-three, Norway township, and runs in an air Une to Scandia, which place was first reached by trains December 24th, 1878. This road runs up the Republican valley and has a mileage of twenty -six and thirty-five hundredths miles in Republic county, con- necting us with Kansas City and St. Louis, via Atchison. The stations along this line in the county are Norway, Scandia, Sherdahl, Republic and Warwick. The assessed valuation of this road in 1901 was |116,375. The next line to build was the Republican Valley branch of the Burling-' ton & Missouri river railroad, built in the summer of 1880. This road enters the county near the northwest corner, running east along our northern border, with twelve and seventy -one one-hundredths miles of track in the county, one station, Byron, being located on the state line, three others being located just across the line in Nebraska. The assessed valuation of this Une for 1901, was |86,098. The next line was a branch of the B. & M., known as the Chicago, Nebraska and Kansas branch of eighteen and thirty one one-hundredths miles which enters the county on the east line a little north of the center, runs south- west and leaves the county about ten miles west of the southeast corner, these two lines furnishing direct com- munication with Missouri river points on the east and with Denver on the west. The stations along this line in Re- public county are Haworth, Cuba and Wayne. This road was built in the summer and fall of 1884. Its assessed valuation in 1901 is )f>83,449. The Junction City and Fort Kearney extension of the Union Pacific from Junction City to Belleville was built the same year, and it was a race between this road and the one last mentioned to see which should get to doing business first. The first reg- ular passenger train over this road to reach Belleville ar- rived on Saturday, November 29th, 1884, and received a hearty welcome by the citizens of the city and adjacent country assisted by the Belleville Cornet Band, construc- tion and freight trains having been running some two 86 History of Republic County. weeks. W. R. Wilbert, for thirty years a railroad engin- eer, and at present engineer at the city water works, ran the first train into Belleville November 15th, 18S4. The Union Pacific depot was completed and ready for occu- pancy December 1st, 1884. The stations on this line in Re- public county are Talmo and Belleville, the latter being the terminus. The mileage in the county is thirteen and thirty-one one-hundredths miles, and the assessed valua- tion for 1901 is $73,706. Thg Chicago Kansas and Ne- braska line, now known as the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific was built in 1887, reaching Belleville in September of that year. The first regular passenger train to leave Belleville over this line was on the morning of Sunday, September 18th, 1887, for Fairbury, Nebraska, returning at seven in the evening. This line has two branches, one from Kansas City enters the county in Elk Creek town- shij), on the SE \ of section 33, runs northwest to Belle- ville; the stations on this branch are Agenda and Cuba. The other enters the county on section 12, in Albion town- ship; runs southwest to Belleville, where the two unite and form the main line to Denver. The stations on this Une are Narka and Munden. On the Main line west the sta- tions are Belleville, Rydal, Scandia and Courtland. The mileage on both lines is fifty -four and ninety-otieone hun- dredths, and the assessed valuation for 1901 is $421,336. A branch of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe, known as the Chicago, Kansas and Western, enters the county about four miles east of the southwest corner; runs north- west and leaves the county about the center of the west line. This is a very important line of road and is very popular with the farmers, feeders and shippers of the southwestern portion of the countj'^, affording a good out- let to the south and southwest for their immense surplus of agricultural products. The mileage of this line is thir- teen and forty-eight one-hundredths and the stations are Kackley and Courtland. The assessed valuation for 1901 is $64,420. The road was built in 1888. The seventh line is History of Republic County. 87 known as The Pacitic Railroad in Nebraska, Jewell branch, one mile in length, extending west and north from War- wick. Theassessed valuation of this roadintlepublic coun- ty for the year 1901 is $4,245. In addition to the valua- tions above enumerated, the Pullman Car Company were frssessed $5,723; The Burlington and Missouri River Tele- graph Company, *2,168; Western Union Telegraph Com- pany, $8,225. Total assessed valuation for 1900, including the Pullman Car and telegraph hues, $849,196. There are sixteen stations in the county and four others in Nebraska within a half mile of our northern border, thus affording facilities unsurpassed by any county in Kansas for ship- ping our immense products to a ready market, the stations being so distributed that there is not a farm house in the county at a greater distance than eight miles from a rail- road depot. As shown in another chapter the entire bonded in- debtedness of the townships through which these same lines of road run amount to a fraction less than $722 per mile. CHAPTER IX. COUNTY AGRICULTURAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETIES. On the evening of February 20th, 1871, in pursuance of notices previously published, a meeting of the citizens of Republic county was held in the log school house on the east side of the public square, for the purpose of consid- ering the propriety of organizing a county agricultural so- ciety. Of this meeting J. W. Raynolds was chairman, and I. O. Savage, secretary. At this meeting it was decided unanimously to organize such a society, and a committee of five chosen to draft constitution and by-laws, with in- structions to report in one week. The following named persons composed the committee: I. O. Savage, chair- 88 History of Republic County. man, J. C. Griffith, R. P. West, A. Shaw and H. G. Dow. This was the first step ever taken in RepubHc county, or in any other county in Kansas west of the Sixth principal meridian, to organize an agricultural society. The com- mitte reported constitution and by-laws in accordance with instructions, which report was unanimously adopted and officers elected for one year, as follows : President, Albert Odell; vice president, R. P. West; secretary, I. O. Savage ; treasurer, John M. Ryan ; and an executive com- mittee of five, consisting of W. S. Latham, J. C. Griffith, J. W. Raynolds, W. P. Peake and H. G. Dow was also chosen ; and thus the Republic County Agricultural Society became fully organized, being the pioneer agricultural society in Kansas, west of the Sixth principal meridian. A fair was held the same year, commencing on the 4th day of October, two miles east of Belleville, on the SE iof SEi of section 36, in Freedom township. These grounds were considered as only temporary, and were fenced with a few posts and a rope. However, a start was made, and everything seemed to work favorably for the society. Sixty-five entries were made, and the premiums, to the amount of $44.75, were awarded and paid. The re- ceipts from all sources were $48.20, and the total expendi- tures $51.95, leaving a balance of $3.25 against the socie- ty. These figures now look small, but it was a beginning and a start in the right direction. The- settlers on the high prairie were just coming in, very little of their land was in cultivation, very few of them having raised any crops the previous year; there was but little stock in the county, no speed ring nor fast horses, consequently the material for making a very attractive display was quite limited. At the annual meeting in February, 1872, for the election of officers, A. Odell was re-elected president, R. P. West, vice-president; I. O. Savage, secretary; and J. M. Ryan, treasurer; and an executive committee of seven, as follows: John R. Bowersox, A. Kindy, Joseph Boothe, J. E. VanNatta, W. P. Peake, Frederick Collins, Sr., and History of Republic County. 89 A. B. Wilder. The rules, regulations and premium list for the second annual fair were printed by Wilder & Kir- by at the Belleville Republic office, in a neat pamphlet of twenty-four pages, each alternate page containing adver- tisements and notices by the business men of Belleville and Scandia, which paid all the expenses of printing. The following Card, by George Morningstar, were remembered by many of the older settlers of Scandia, probably con- tains more truth than is usually found in the advertise- ments of institutions of a similar character: REPUBLICAN VALLEY SALOON, Scandinavia, Kansas. Geo. Morningstar & Son, Prop's. This notorious establishment takes pleasure in noti- fying the public generally that it is fully prepared (having on hand a large stock especially selected for the trade) to supply at exhorbitant rates by the pint, half-pint and drink, to be drank on the premises or off the premises, by man, woman or child, preacher, lawyer or doctor, black-leg and bummer, the most diabolical rot-gut whiskey ever vended to the public. Special mixtures provided for church members, put up in small bottles, labled medicine, and deposited for their accommodation ten steps south of the southwest cor- ner of the saloon. Candidates for office supplied at wholesale rates. Customers from Belleville will have their drinks wat- ered properly. Beastly drunkenness insured in three drinks. Fam- ily ruin in six months. Free fights are an attractive fea- ture of this institution. In fact, we are prepared to sink the morality of the whole neighborhood in a few gulps. GEORGE MORNINGSTAR. It is scarcely necessary to add that the above was the means of securing a liberal patronage from customers from the vicinity of Belleville. The second annual fair was held on the third and 90 History of Republic Countv. fourth days of October, 1872, on lands proposed by J. C. Griffith and R. W. VanDyke as permanent fair grounds of the society. These grounds were about one-half mile northeast of Belleville, and comprised thirty acres, fifteen acres off the NW corner of the SE i, and fifteen off the NE corner of the SW i of section 35, Freedom township, and the right of way sixty feet wide leading to the same, both quarters being homestead land. The understanding then was that the society should take possession of these grounds, enclose the same with a hedge, grade a track for trials of speed, dig a well, erect a building suitable for a floral hall, and otherwise improve the grounds as the so- ciety saw proper, in consideration of all which Messrs. Griffith and VanDyke were to convey these grounds to the society in fee simple, whenever they could legally do so, for a price to be determined by disinterested parties. Unfortunately for the society and for Republic county to day, all of these conditions were not complied with. This fair was one of the best ever held in the county, everybody seeming interested and working for the general welfare of the society. Two hundred and six entries were made, cash premiums to the amount of $185 were awarded and paid, and the receipts exceeded the expenditures by $21.66. At this fair, liberal private premiums were offered and paid by Gardner Bros., Josiah Kindt and A. O. Kindy. On the 7th day of December, 1872, A. B. Wilder was elected a delegate to represent the society in the State Board of Agriculture. At the annual meeting in February, 1873, for the election of officers, the following persons were chosen: President, R. P. West; W. H. Pilkenton, vice president; I. O. Savage, secretary; and V. Vantrump, treasurer. The third annual fair was held on the society's grounds, October 1st, 2d and 3d, and a line exhibit made. There were two hundred and nineteen entries, and over 1200 in premiums paid. This year a building 20x30 feet was erected for a floral hall, at an expense of $240, a well History of Republic County. 91 dug and walled, hedge rows broken, and a large amount of money expended on the track. The receipts, although large, were not sufficient to meet these expenses, and a balance of !t^l06.92 was found against the society. The officers elected for 1874 were R. P. West, presi- deet; O. A. Gardner, vice-president; I. O. Savage, secre- tary; and V. Vantrump, treasurer. A fair was held Sep- tember 16th, 17th and 18th. but, this being what was called grasshopper year, the entries were few, the attendance meagre, and the receipts small. In 1875 the following named persons were elected officers of the society : A. B. Wilder, president ; A. J. Beers, vice-president; V. Vantrump, secretary; and J. A. Mosher, treasurer. The fifth annual fair was held Sep- tember 28th, 29th and 30th. Receipts from all sources, ^279.40; expenditures, $274.57; leaving a balance in favor of the society of $4.83. The officers for 1876 were I. O. Savage, president; J. Kindt, vice-president; A. B. Wilder, secretary; and J. A. Mosher, treasurer. No fair was held this year. At the annual meeting in 1877, the following persons were elected officers : J.Kindt, president; Milton Han- cock, vice-president; Adam Dixon, secretary; J. A. Mosher, treasurer. The sixth annual fair was held Sep- tember 20th, 21st and 22d, 1877. The weather was tine, the attendance large, and the receipts larger than in any former year. The officers elected for 1878 were: Wm. Hughes, president; A. J. Beers, secretary; I. O. Savage, treasurer. The seventh annual fair was held September 24th, 25th and 26th. The attendance was not large, but the receipts from all sources exceeded expenses by $79.25. On the 29th day of October an application was made by the treasurer of the society to the chairman of the board of county commissioners, asking him to issue an or- der on the treasurer of the county for the sum of money to which the society was entitled from the county, under 92 History of Republic County. ' section eight of chapter 37, of the laws of 1872. This ap- plication was accompanied by a certificate, attested by the president and treasurer of the society, under oath, iu strict conformity with the law above referred to. The chairman declined to grant the application, and did not treat the same with that consideration which the officers of the society thought its importance demanded; conse- quently, a writ of mandamus was applied for and obtained from the district court, citing the chairman to appear at the April term of said court; to show cause, if any he had, why he did not sign the order as asked for in the applica- tion. Everything had worked harmoniously down to this time, the society having had no trouble in getting the as- sistance from the county to which it was entitled under the law above referred to. Lars C. Hansen, of Scandia, was at this time chairman of the board of commissioners and he objected, and objected vigorously to signing the or- der, saying he would never do, so long as his name be Han- sen. Strange as it may seem, all the attorneys in the county at the time took sides with Mr. Hansen and freely expressed the opinion that the society could not recover, this being the first and only case I call to mind when all of themwere wrong at the same time. Of course,attorneys are expected to be wrong half of the time, but this case seems tohavebeenan exception and not the rule. The case came on for hearing, able counsel appearing on both sides. Along and tedious trial ensued, and the jury, after being out twenty minutes, returned a verdict in favor of the society, as under the instructions from the court it could not well do otherwise, as Judge Wilson in his charge clearly inti- mated that if any other verdict was returned he would set it aside. After mature deliberation on the part of the so- ciety, it was thought best, under existing circumstances, the society being compelled to resort to the courts to ob- tain the rights to which it was entitled under the law, to sell the building on the fair ground, pay off all indebted- History of Republic County. 93 ness, surrender the charter, and let the Republic County Agricultural Society be one of the things of the past, which was accordingly done, and it is a lamentable fact that the banner agricultural county of Northwestern Kan- sas has no agricultural society today. We do not state the above facts with the design or de- sire of censuring any one, as all parties may have acted for what they considered to be the general welfare of the county. It has, however, been clearly demonstrated that it is much easier to find fault with, break up and destroy such an organization than to organize one, and put it in successful operation. On this point, we are satisfied there can be no dispute. The advisability of reorganizing the society was talked of from time to time through the medium of the county papers and a few feeble and unsuc- cessful attempts to do so were made, the nearest approach to it being in August, 1887, when a few meetings were held, a charter procured, constitution and by-laws adopted and officers elected. The officers chosen were: E. M. Crummer, president; J. A. Mosher, vice-president; I. O. Savage, secretary; Wm. McCullough, treasurer; and who still have the honor, if any there be, of holding these offices, as their successors have never been elected. This was to be a joint stock company with a capital of $10,000 divided into 2,000 shares of $5 each, only a small portion of which was subscribed. COUNTY HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. As early as 1879 it had been demonstrated that fruit of almost every variety could be successfully grown in Re- public county. In pursuance of a call a public meeting was held at the court house in Belleville October 11th, 1879, having for its object the organization of a county hor- ticultural society. Of this meeting O. A. A. Gardner was chosen chairman, and W. P. Peake secretary. A committee, consisting of N. T. VanNatta, Ezra Powell and J. A. Mosher was appointed to draft a consti- 94 History of Republic County. tution and by-laws for such an organization, after which the meeting adjourned to the tirst Saturday in December. Met pursuant to adjournment when the committee re- ported a constitution, which after receiving careful con- sideration, was adopted, and the following officers were elected to hold until the regular annual meeting as pro- vided in the constitution: O. A. A. Gardner, president; J. A. Mosher, vice-president; W. P. Peake, secretary; Ezra Powell, treasurer; and N. T. VanNatta, Adam Dixon and Dr. Henry Patrick, trustees. J. A. Mosher was elected delegate to represent the so- ciety at the annual meeting of the State Horticultural So- ciety to be held at Holton on the 16th, 17th and 18th days of December, 1879. The organization, the simplest part of all the work, was now complete, but to keep the society alive and in working order required great effort on the part of its friends and promoters, the most zealous of whom many times, almost yielded to discouragement, however, for some time quite a lively interest was taken and much use- ful information disseminated. The third meeting was held at the court house March 3d, 1880, at which time Honorable N. T. VanNatta was, by a unanimous vote made a life member in consideration of live dollars, donated by him to the society. The following is a complete list of the members at this time: O. A. A. Gardner, president; J. A. Mosher, vice-president; W. P. Peake, treasurer; John Pulcomer,, Dr. H. Patrick, Adam Dixon, John E. Hallowell, E. M. Crummer, Edson G. Haven, N. T. VaNatta, Chauncey Perry and Selwyn M. McBride. The next meeting was held May 4th, 1881, at which time it was decided to hold the annual meeting on the third Saturday of December of each year, and the semi- annuar meeting in June, at such date and place as may be determined at the annual meeting. The second board of officers elected were: W. P. Peake, president; John Pul- History of Republic County. 95 comer, vice-president; O. A. A. Gardner, secretary; J. A. Mosher, treasurer. The society received its charter from the secretary of state July 14th, 1883. It was not until 1886 that Republic county commenced to attract attention as one of the leading fruit producing counties of Kansas. Quite a number of orchards of first planting had by this time come into bearing, being from ten to twelve years old, and this being a fine fruit year the society decided to make an exhibit at Topeka in the fall of that year. John Fulcomer and Henry Passmore were chosen a committee to represent the society and take charge of the exhibit. The fruit was selected with great care from the best orchards in different parts of the county and placed on exhibition in competition, not only with older counties of Kansas and Missouri, but with the world. The commit- tee returned with nine first premiums on best plates of apples, four second premiums on best plates, and third premium for best and largest display by counties, the premiums being $1 each for best plates, 50 cents each for second best plates, and $25 for third largest and best dis- play, aggregating $86, which more than defrayed the ex- penses of the exhibit. Peeling encouraged by this excel lent showing it was decided to try again when the proper time arrived. 1887 was also fruitful, two fairs being held in the state, one at Bis mark Grove and the other at Topeka. J. A. Mosher and Dr. H. Patrick were the committee to take charge of the exhibit at both places, being awarded the second premium for best and largest display of fruit at Bismark, the amount of the premium being $75. Were not successful at Topeka, the fruit having been handled considerably and reshipped did not present so fine an ap- pearance as in the first place. After paying all expenses of the exhibit at both places a balance of *9.10 was left in favor of the society. As before stated attention had been directed to Re- public county by its excellent exhibit at Topeka in 1886, so 96 History of Republic County. much so that the State Horticultural Society decided to hold its seventeenth semi-annual meeting at Belleville on June 27th and 28th, 1887. An able, cordial and hearty welcom- ing address was made to the society by Rev. Geo. W. Wood, then pastor of the M. E. church, which was appre- ciateingly responded to by Judge L. A. Simmons, of Wel- lington, in behalf of the society. The semi-annual address of Geo. Y. Johnson, president of the state society, was an able effort, full of encouragement, and was well received. Leading horticulturists from different parts of the state were in attendance, including Fred. Wellhouse, the cham- pion apple grower of Kansas. Interesting and instructive papers were read by Judge Simmons, Hon. Martin Allen, of Hayes City, Dr. Charles Williamson, of Washington, and A. B. Warner, of White Rock, and instructive addresses by Fred. Wellhouse and others. The next meeting of the society was held at the office of Cooper, Meek & Cooper December 22d, 1888, it being the regular annual meeting, when the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: W. M. Moore, presi- dent; J. M. Williams, vice-president; I. O. Savage, secre- tary; J. A. Mosher, treasurer. From this time the inter- est in the society began to wane and no meetings were held until June 28th, 1890, at which the attendance was small, and it became painfully evident that the days of the Horticultural Society were numbered. No meetings have been held since the above date. CHAPTER X, CROPS AND FARM ANIMALS. Reliable statistics in regard to crops, farm animals, etc., were not gathered in Kansas until 1872, and these were not as complete as desired, owing to the absence of any efficient official source through which they could be History of Republic County. 97 obtained, as the law providing for the collection of statis- tics by the township assessors was not passed until the session of 1873. The statistics here presented, therefore, embrace a period of thirty years, from 1872 to 1901 in- clusive. HORSES. HORSES. HORSES. HORSES. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. 1872 1500 1873 2322 1888 12116 1889 12787 1874 3199 1875 3103 1890 11093 1891 13867 1876 3316 1877 3711 1892 13761 1893 14513 1878 4481 1879 5868 1894 13448 1895 14667 1880 6942 1881 7471 1896 13014 1897 13054 1882 7703 1883 8793 1898 12744 1899 13040 1884 9270 1885 9876 1900 12607 1901 13249 1886 10636 1887 11155 MULES MILCH COWS MULES. MILUH cows Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. 1872 96 1877 3242 1888 1180 1893 6829 1873 227 1878 .3310 1889 1185 1894 6716 1874 319 1879 3788 1890 948 1895 8630 1875 308 1880 4248 1891 992 1896 7576 1876 272 1881 4766 1892 931 1897 7752 1877 384 1882 5925 1893 1133 1898 8958 1878 408 1883 7194 1894 1145 1899 9681 1879 544 1884 8583 1895 1622 1900 10207 1880 575 1885 9737 1896 1498 1901 12327 1881 645 1886 11450 1897 1467 Prior to 1877 sta- 1882 651 1887 11527 1898 1488 tistics in re ffardto 1883 832 1888 12709 1899 1591 milch cows were 1884 979 1889 14355 1900 1413 included i n the 1885 1154 1890 10359 1901 1356 whole number of 1886 1124 1891 10993 cattle. 1887 1185 1892 10362 OTHER CATTLE. This table gives the whole number of cattle in the county down to, and including 1876, after which milch cows are excluded. Yrs. No. Yrs No. Yrs. No. Yrs No. 1872 4944 1873 4682 1888 24551 1889 24112 1874 6649 1875 6050 1890 22368 1891 22560 1876 6746 1877 4690 1892 23347 1893 14516 1878 5623 1879 6390 1894 11009 1895 13739 1880 7422 1881 9189 1896 9878 1897 13285 1882 10185 1883 13532 1898 17881 1899 23995 1884 19287 1885 17965 1900 27063 1901 25978 1886 20721 1887 23522 98 History of Republic County. SWINE. SWINE. SWINE SWINE. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. Yrs. No. 1872 1232 1873 3336 1888 40939 1889 49306 1874 9897 1875 5038 1890 54939 1891 53769 187(i 7097 1877 18011 1892 49311 1893 14013 1878 31286 1879 38142 1894 16610 1895 32842 1880 44169 1881 40290 1896 33295 1897 48069 1882 41915 1883 48469 1898 64673 1899 64457 1884 69383 1885 81009 1900 62819 1901 57585 1886 55389 1887 54186 The falling- off in the numbers of live stock from 1874 to 1875 is accounted for by the grasshopper visitation of 1874, the corn crop that season being almost a total fail- ure, but very little being raised in the county. Large numbers of our people went back east to winter, taking their teams and milch cows with them, many not return- ing until late in the season of 1875, while others did not come back at all. In 1877 Republic ranked as the ninth county in the state in the number of swine, seventh in 1878, second in 1879, and first in 1880, leading Brown county, the next highest, by 2,827 head. In 1881 she ranked third, being surpassed by Brown with 41,279 and Miami with 41,040 head. In 1882 she ranked third again, being surpassed by Brown and Cowley. In 1885, in proportion to area, Republic led, with the unprecedented number of 81,009, being so far in advance of all other counties of the same area as to make it idle to institute a comparison. Cholera among swine broke out this year and was quite general throughout the state, raging with great fury in many counties during the years 1885, 1886 and 1887, seriously crippling this important in- dustry. The losses in Republic county from this cause alone were in 1885, 9,122 head; 1886, 51,513 head; 1887> 21,966 head; aggregating 82,601 head, in three years re- ducing the number to 40,939 in 1888, since which time this dreaded disease has not generally been prevalent. Years. 1872 1873 WHEAT. — (WINTER AND SPRING.) Acreage. Bushels. Years. Acreage. 4858 47252 1887 3006 12044 88203 1888 1057 Bushels. 32355 23846 History of Republic County. 99 Years. Acreage. Bushels. Year's. Acreage. Bushels. 1874 27757 289225 1889 2458 54389 1875 33092 476307 1890 8320 75118 187() 28925 361531 1891 1.3687 229855 1877 19174 282846 1892 18713 271036 1878 38936 681968 1893 22420 26838 1879 4()573 413612 1894 13254 45393 1880 42275 404154 1895 7137 28548 1881 25574 204592 1896 4514 <)4084 1882 8427 132948 1897 7231 144310 1883 4612 93712 1898 10829 193914 1884 758(i 141892 1898 21046 252204 1885 8204 116293 1900 8545 J 61398 1886 . 4975 55814 1901 23385 Republic county has not in any one year produced a million bushels of wheat, its nearest approach to it being in 1878 when 681,968 bushels were raised, hence it is not classed among the leading counties in the production of this important cereal, although during the 70s she ranked high in the production of spring wheat being located in what was known, from 1872 to 1881 as the spring wheat belt of Kansas, composed of seven counties lying in a compact body in the northwest, five of which, Marshall, Washington, Republic, Jewell and Smith, being in the northern tier,and the other two. Cloud and-Mitchell, adjoin- ing. In 1887 these seven counties produced 3,345,340 bush- els, or nearly three-tiftbs the entire spring wheat product of the state. In the number of bushels raised. Republic county ranked in the state as follows : 1872 as 2(i. 1873 as 6th. 1874 as 3d. 1875 as 1st. 1876 as 2d. 1877 as 3d. 1878 as 3d. 1879 as 1st. 1880 as 3d. 1881 as 2d. Thus it appears that, for a period of ten years, she held the first place three years, the second place three years, the third place three years, and the sixth place one year. But at present its cultivation is almost entirely abandoned, one reason for discontinuing its culture being that it was most successfully grown on new land, or ground that had not been ploughed more than two or three times at most. Another and the principal reason being that most of the farmers have found that corn growing 100 History of Republic County. and stock raising and feeding are more profitable and have turned their attention in this direction, although some very fine wheat, both spring and winter, are still grown, S. T. Collins, a leading farmer of B"'reedom township, holding a testimonial from the directors of the world's fair at Chicago for a sample of superior excellence ex- hibited there in competition with the world, the medal be- ing for the best one-half bushel of hard winter wheat. From 1874 to 1880, barley was quite successfully grown, the product being: Year. Acres. Bushels. Year. Acres. Bushels. 1874 907 18140 1878 67640 1875 2988 71719 1879 4939 98740 1876 7210 201040 1880 2219 H7723 1877 155700 This crop has also been nearly discontinued. CORN. Year. Acr-^age. Product in Bushels. Year. Acreage. Product in Bushels. 1872 20907 258240 1887 116382 1745730 1873 22726 568325 1888 132878 6378144 1874 21714 1889 140792 7039600 1875 23512 940480 1890 20432 245184 1876 26940 1077600 1891 131548 4735728 1877 47541 1806508 1892 129176 3875280 1878 36969 1478760 1893 164261 1806871 1879 51124 2044966 1894 147764 44.3292 1880 75969 2431008 1895 177218 1063308 1881 90317 1806340 1896 189737 6261321 1882 103263 4646835 1897 203662 7739156 1888 120990 4718610 1898 200125 2201375 1884 116761 5721289 1899 210131 6514061 1885 125439 5017560 1900 186283 2794245 1886 338739 4162170 1901 172230 Alf alf ti, 1901 ... . . 10389 acres CORN I S KING. In 1876, for the first time, the corn crop of the county exceeded one million bushels. In 1880 we ranked as the seventh corn producing county in Kansas, and in 1882 as third, producing, as shown in the tables, 4,646,835 bush- els, only two counties in the state producing a greater number of bushels, viz., Marshall and Sumner; but it History of Republic County. 101 must be borne in mind that these counties embrace a much larger area than Republic. The following shows the area of the three counties named, and the number of bushels produced by each : liepublic, I'lO square miles 4,646,835 bushels Marshall, 900 square miles 4,899,900 bushels Sumner, 1,188 square miles 4,671,520 bushels Prom the above it will readily be seen that Republic, in proportion to area, led both the others so far that it is hardly worth while to make a comparison, Jewell county, adjoining Republic on the west with an area of 900 square miles, produced 4,081,950 bushels. From a careful examination of the above table it will be seen that in the twenty nine year record, we have had one total failure of the corn crop, viz:, in 1874, known as the grasshopper year, this failure extending over the en- tire state, partial failures in 1881, 1890, 1894 and 1895. But it must be borne in mind that the crop was a failure through- out the state generally in 1890 and 1894, the total product for 1890 being lifty one million bushels and in .'94 a little less than sixty-seven million bushels, so we could not have been much behind the rest of the state. From 1875 to 1880 inclusive, were seasons of unex- ampled prosperity in all the departments of agriculture. A partial failure of the corn crop in 1881 owing to ex- treme wet and unfavorable weather in planting time, succeeded by long continued dry weather later in the sea- son, reducing the yield from 2,431,008 bushels in 1880 to 1,806,340 bushels in 1881, while the yield of small grain was very nearly up to the average. Again from 1882 to 1886 inclusive, we were blessed with abundant harvests, the greatest trouble of the farmer being to get sufficient lumber for granaries and cribs. The year 1884 was re- markably productive, the yield of corn being the largest in the history of the county up to this time, footing up 5,721,289 bushels, averaging forty-nine bushels per acre for every acre planted, and which would require for ship- 102 History of Rcpiibiic County. merit a train of cars eighty-five miles in length, placing Republic as third in rank among the corn producing counties of Kansas. In 1889 the yield was 7,039,600 or more than 400 bushels to each citizen of the county. Pol- lowing the failure of 1890 was the excellent showing of 4,735,728 bushels in 1891, a fairly good crop in 1892, an enormous yield in 1896, 6,261,321 bushels, while the crop of 1897 broke all former records with the unprecedented yield of 7,739,156 bushels, or more than one-twentieth of the entire product of the state. The crop of 1899 was the third largest ever grown in the county. Republic has always ranked high as a corn producing county, being located nearly in the center of the great corn belt of Kansas, composed of the counties of Nemaha, Marshall, Washington, Republic, Jewell and Smith, all in the northern tier. In 1897 these six counties produced 40,189,976 bushels, or more than one-fourth the entire product of the state. CHAPTER XL COUNTY INDEBTEDNESS. As Stated in a former chapter, the county was organ- ized in September, 1868, with a population barely suffi- cient for that purpose; and, the county lying wholly with- in the homestead area, consequently having very little real estate subject to taxation, and nearly every settler sheltering himself behind the $200 exemption clause in the constitution, it is not strange that the county found itself unable to pay current expenses. The total taxable property of the county in 1869 was but little more than $100,000, and under the law only one per cent could be levied for general revenue, raising only $1,000 for current expenses, providing the tax had all been collected, which, History of Republic County. 103 in those days, did not often happen. Then the lands known as the State or Steele lands, being the principal portion of the real estate in the county subject to taxation, paid no taxes for that year owing to some irregularity in advertising them for sale, consequently the tax collected for current county expenses was considerably less than $1,000. In 1870, the taxable property had increased to $202,829, on which the county tax was, in round numbers, 12,000. In the spring of 1871, a committee to investigate the financial affairs of the county was appointed, consist- ing of C. Perry, A. D. Wilson and T. J. Baird, who re- ported an indebtedness of l«5,500, and the same constantly increasing, which from the nature of the case, was un- avoidable; and the fact that the county had been organ- ized at too early a date became apparent to every one. County scrip depreciated to sixty cents on the dollar, and books, stationery and other supplies needed by the county, had to be paid for with depreciated paper. And so matters continued until April, 1873, when $15,000 in county bonds were issued by the county com- missioners, to liquidate outstanding indebtedness, in pur- suance of an act of the Legislature approved February 20, 1873. This measure afforded temporary relief only, as the amount was barely sufficient to liquidate outstanding indebtedness, leaving nothing for current expenses for the year. The tax levy of 1873 was insufficient to meet expenses and the indebtedness steadily increased until 1876, when the maximum of $42,800 was reached. During this year $27,800 in county bonds were issued in pursuance of an act of the Legislature, approved February 28, 1876, to pay off outstanding scrip, and provide for the current expen- ses for the year. These were ten per cent, bonds, run- ning fifteen years, the last of which were issued by the commissioners December 26, 1876. From that time the debt was steadily reduced, leaving a balance outstanding June 15, 1883, of $19,000, which was refunded in six per 104 History of Republic County. cent bonds running ten years, but subject to call after five years, the last of which were paid according to the terms of the bonds, leaving the county free from debt at the close of 1893, since which time no county indebted- ness has been created. The following table presents an exhibit of the town- ship, city and school district indebtedness on the first day of July, 1900: Albion township C. K. & N railroad *11000 Belleville twp Juct'n City & F. K. K. il. 8000 Belleville township refunding 9000 Courtland township refunding 11000 Elk Creek township refunding 7000 Richland township refunding 14000 Scandia township refunding 23000 Freedom township J. C. & F. K. R. R. 6000 Belleville city refunding 12000 Belleville city water works 500 Belleville city water works 500 Scandia city prospecting for coal 1500 School District No. 14 11000.. School District No. 38 200.. School District No. 46 600.. School District No. 45 200. School District No. 87 500 . . School District No. 113 200. . School District No. 118 350.. School District No. 121 400... School District No. 53 250. Due Rate per CL. July 1, 1921 £> June 1, 1H04 i July 1, , 1915 5 Jan. 1, 1920 t) July 1, 1914 5 July 1, 1!»26 5 July 1, 1920 o June 1, 1904 7 Jan. 1, 1920 5 July 1. 1900 7 July 1, 1901 6 Apl. 1, 1904 () This indebtedness may safely be set down as trifling when we take into consideration the facts that the county has 140 miles of railroad, fine county buildings and school houses, all the county bridges necessary and all comparatively new and in good repair. CHAPTER XIL DISTRICT COURT TWELFTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT. It is now more than thirty years since first the time- honored words of "Hear ye, hear ye, the Honorable Dis- trict Court of Republic county is now in session" rever- History of Republic County. 105 berated on the air of the bleak prairies where the beautiful city of Belleville now stands. During all this time the Twelfth Judicial District has maintained a rank second to none other in the state of Kansas. In its history we can- not find a single incident where any of its officers have ever by their official acts brought dishonor on its fair name. Its sessions in this county first began in a shanty and its first officers were pioneers on the frontier of a civilization dwelling, where but recently the savage in pred- atory bands went hither and thither, bedecked in paint and feathers, following the instincts of their savage natures and a menace to the peaceful and law-abiding pursuits of the Anglo-Saxon race. On Tuesday, May 7th, 1901, Sheriff Brown, as the bailiff of the court, shouted "Hear ye, hear ye!" from the window of one of the best court houses in the state — all paid for. His eyes looked out on one of the fairest land- scapes that would meet the eye of man in any country or any clime. Instead of the scene that greeted the first crier of this same court — the bleak prairie, the Cottonwood shanty, or the lowly sod house — he saw the handiwork of man wrought out in stone and brick and metal. Here are modern houses in the town and on the farm where dwell the highest type of American civilization, itself the best on earth. Here, since the first crier called out his doleful, monotonous cry, has been wrought a change that could not have possibly been foreshadowed by the most romantic and sanguinary dreamer of those who attended court at its first session in this county. Tbe Twelfth Judicial District of the State of Kansas was created by an act of the legislature approved Febru- ary 28th, 1871, and originally comprised the counties of Marshall, Washington, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Smith and Osborne. This territory has been cut down from time to time until at present it embraces three counties only, namely, Washington, Republic and Cloud. On the 19th day of 106 History of Republic County. March, 1871, Hon. A. S. Wilson was appointed judge of the new district by Gov. James M. Harvey. Judge Wil- son was born in Macon county, Illinois, in 1847, and grew up to manhood in that state. After graduating from the Illinois State Wesleyan University at Bloomington, he studied law with Stuart, Phelps & Brown, and at the age of twenty-two was admitted to practice before the Su- preme Court of the state of Illinois. Near the close of 1869 he came to Kansas and located at Washington, the county seat of Washington county, where he resided for nearly twenty years. At the election in November, 1870, he was elected to represent Washington county in the state legis- lature, being the youngest member of that body. As be- fore stated, he was appointed judge March 19, 1871, and served by appointment until the general election in 1872, when he was elected without opposition, receiving 9,014 votes out of 9,017 cast; was re-elected in 1876 and again in 1880. In October, 1884, he resigned and returned to the practice of law. Judge Wilson was a giant physically, intellectually and judicially; a man who had a host of warm friends and a very few bitter enemies, and won for himself a state- wide reputation as a jurist. Probably a less number of his decisions have been reversed than those of any other district judge serving an equal length of time in Kansas. He moved from Kansas to Sioux City, Iowa, where for many years he had a large and lucrative practice. On the 27th of October, 1884, Governor Glick appointed Hon. J. G. Lowe, of Washington, as judge, to till the vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Wilson. Judge Lowe served ten days, when he resigned, as he could ill afford to relinquish his extensive practice to serve so short a time as judge. After his resignation the governor ap- pointed A. A. Carnahan, of Concordia, who served as judge until Judge Edward Hutchinson, who had been elected in November, 1884, entered upon his regular term, and held courtinCloud, Marshall, Washington and Republic History of Republic County. 107 counties; the tei'm for Republic county being held in Jan- uary, J8S5, when the celebrated case of The State of Kan- sas vs. Sanford Sparks Voorhees was tried. The state was represented by T. M. Noble, county attorney, and Ex-At- torney General, W. W. Guthrie, was vigorously prosecuted; the late A. E. Taylor being counsel for the prisoner. Voorhees, as some of our readers will doubtless re- member, was charged with wrecking a passenger train on the B. & M. R. R. in Rose Creek township, near Hub- bell, by which several persons were badly injured, and after a trial lasting six days at an expense to the county of more than $50 per day, he was convicted and Judge Car- nahan, in giving him his sentence, said: "You are a young man and this may be your first offense, and in considera- tion of your youth and apparent inexperience, I shall be very lenient with you and shall sentence you to only fifty years at hard labor in the state penitentiary." Voorhees received the sentence very graciously and thanked the court for leniency. The verdict and sentence however, were not heartily approved by the public, as there was a strong presumption in the minds of the peo pie, which still exists, that Voorhees was nearly one hun- dred miles away when the wreck occurred. After serving eight years at hard labor he was pardoned in March, 1893, by Governor Lewelling. It is but fair to say, however, that Judge Carnahan presided with dignity and ability and maintained the high rank the court had attained during the incumbency of Judge Wilson. At the election in November, 1884, Edward Hutchinson, of Marysviile, was elected Judge and served four years, an able, conscientious and impartial Judge, presiding with dignity and to the general satisfaction of litigants and members of the bar. In November, 1888, Hon. F. W. Sturgis was elected, re-elected in 1892 and again in 1896, serving three full terms with distinguished ability. Prior to his election as judge he was county attorney 108 History of Republic County. of Cloud county and represented that county in the legis- lature of 1883, taking an active and leading part in the leg- islation of that session. In November, 1900, Hugh Alexander, of Concordia, was elected, carrying every county in the district by de- cisive majorities. The first term of the district court for Republic county vpas held at Belleville March 27, 1871, in a little, low room over the drug store of Dr. J. C. Griffith, on the site where the Masonic Temple now stands. There were five cases docketed, none of which came to trial at that term. As stated elsewhere, L. R. Dobyns, of Rose Creek township, had been elected clerk of the court in the fall of 1870, which being prior to the forma- tion of the district, his election was declared void, but he was appointed by the judge and discharged the duties of clerk at the first term of court. The remainder of his term was filled by deputies, I. O. Savage serving until June, 1872, and Chauncey Perry filling out the remainder of the term. The first business transacted at this term was the ad- mission of A. P. Heely to practice in the courts of this state, he having presented a certificate of admission in the state of Missouri. Mr. Heely was elected county attorney in November, 1870. N. H. Billings, of Billings county, Kansas, who, after undergoing a very rigid and severe ex- amination by the following committee appointed by the court, viz., A. A. Carnahan, A. P. Heely, and N. T. Vau- Natta, was duly admitted to practice in the courts of the Twelfth Judicial District. Mr. Billings was an attorney of fair attainments, good legal mind, and afterwards rep- resented Billings county (now Norton) in the state legis- lature. He was a pioneer in the homestead country, taking up his residence in Norton county in 1872, and was one of the first to discover the fine location of Jewell City and to aid in its selection as a county seat. The records of the court at this time were kept on History of Republic County. ]09 legal cap paper, and the office furniture consisted of two stools, one spittoon and a cracker-box. At this term the Judge ordered the clerk to procure, for the use of the court, the following books to wit: an appearance docket, a trial docket, a journal, an execution docket, and a recog- nizance docket, and a seal; after which court adjourned until September, when several important cases were tried, and the following named attorneys admitted to practice: Hon. W. H. Pilkenton, Geo. B. Austin, Aaron E. Taylor and H. G. Dow. This second term was held in a small building then standing on the north side of the public square on the present site of Young's barber shop. The building is now owned and occupied by Joshua Harlan as a residence. The following persons served as jurors for this term, being the first jury empaneled in the district court in this county: A. O. Kindy, John L. Daniels, A. J. Hill, James H. Bradd, L. C. Hanson, John R. Bowersox, Ezra Powell, J. P. Williams, John Engle, E. E. Monroe, J. A. Mosher and John Harris. The first grand jury summoned in Republic county was drawn September 23d. 1887, and consisted of the fol- lowing persons: James Kackley, Beaver; William Law- rence, Beaver; W. A. Brock, Belleville; A. R. Park, Belle- ville; S. T, Rider, Belleville; Wesley Klabzuba, Pairview; Anton Blocklinger, Pairview; W. A. Clark, Courtland; John Mattison, Parmington; C. R. Cleveland, Elk Creek; S. M. Stewart, Lincoln; J. B. Rickard, Rose Creek; Clark Emery, Richland; Silas Young, Elk Creek. The first trial for homicide in the county was at the spring term of 1872. The State of Kansas vs. Stephen Gidley, for the killing of John Walsh, on Salt Creek, near the residence of J. E. VanNatta, in January, 1872. A. P. Heeley, J. D. Brumbaugh and W. H. Pilkenton appearing for the state, and Borton & Linville for the defendant. This case attracted the attention of the entire community, 110 History of Republic Comity. and was ably handled, especially by Judge Linville, who succeeded in getting a verdict of not guilty. J. A. Linville was one of the most successful attor- neys that ever stood before a jury in Republic county, and after saving several clients from the penitentiary, was not, with all his tact and legal ability, able to save himself; he having served two terms since he left Republic county — one in Indiana and one in Kansas. The business of the court, we presume, was conduct- ed in those early days very much the same as at present with an occasional case which "drew, " among which we may name the case of Lemuel Sears vs. Lucinda Pitman and Dr. Hoxie. This case was first tried before Henry Ebbling, a justice of the peace, of Teutonic descent, in Union township, and in whose court the proceedings could not always be characterized as monotonous. This case, owing to its importance, the prominence of the parties to the suit, and the interest manifested by the denizens of the great valley of Dry Creek, was moved to Belleville, where a law library and supreme court decisions were of easy access, the large and commodious court room in the new court house secured, and ample facilities afforded the newspaper reporters to report the proceedings from day to day. The counsel for Sears was the late Judge L. W. Borton, at that time a central figure in important trials in the courts of the twelfth district, assisted by A. P. Heely and John Wilson, Jr., and one John Hughes, then running a saloon on the present site of The National Bank of Belleville. The last named party being quite an import- ant factor in the trial of the case, his resort being very popular with the court, the counsel, the jury and a ma- jority of the witnesses. The defense was represented by N. T. VanN;i,tta, who, against such fearful odds, battled bravely for his fair cli. ent, Lucinda, and the distinguished, long-haired, wild and woolly, doughty doctor. Objections as to the admissibil- ity of testimony were frequently made on both sides, by History of Republic County. Ill the learned counsel, on the grounds that the questions were unimportant, impertinent, incompetent, irrelevant, insignificant, improper, immaterial and incoherent, and several other objections which I do not now distinctly re- member, and were argued at great length by the learned counsel, in very much the same manner as at the present time, whenever the court will allow them to do so. When the court was asked how he would rule, he invar- iably decided, "That the witness must tell the truth." This decision was not popular with the attorneys on either side, but was the only one that could be obtained in Jus- tice Ebbling's court during the entire trial and for which he received the commendation of all disinterested parties. If this rule could beenforcedat the present time the ends of justice would be better subserved than they are. This suit, although originally brought bySears for the recovery of possession of a team of horses held jointly by the fair but frail Lucinda and the irrepressible doctor, which they claimed to have received from Sears for kindness shown him by Lucinda and services rendered by the doctor. By some legerdemain on the part of the plantiff's counsel the paternity of a certain male child born to the fair but frail defendant, Lucinda, some time prior to the commence- ment of this suit, was called in question, and was by the court admitted as a part of the case. For the purpose of the plaintifif it was necessary to show that said child was of premature birth. Defendant Hoxie, who at this stage of the proceedings was in that maudlin condition begotten by too liberal doses of homiletic elaborator imbibed at the resort kept by John Hughes before mentioned, was called as an expert, and was asked if he attended the fair Lu- cinda at the birth of said child, to which he replied in the affirmative. When asked as to the appearance of said child, said "its hair was short and hic-thin." "Well, doc- tor, what would that appearance seem to indicate?" "It would seem to indi-hic-ate that its-hic-hair was short and- hic-thin. " 112 History of Republic County. This seemed to settle this part of the case, as the court, jury and all the attorneys seemed to be satisfied with this lucid and highly scientific explanation. The counsel for the defense had prepared instructions which he requested the court to submit to the jury as the law in the case. This was vigorously opposed by Judge Borton, counsel for the plaintiff, on the grounds that it was un- necessary, highly improper, and an insult to such an Intel - hgent jury as to even propose to instruct them. Picking up from the table a copy of the first bi-ennial report of the State Board of Agriculture, he continued, "I hold in my hand, your honor, a book which is everywhere recognized as authority, and upon my honor as a man, and attorney- at-law, and with no desire to mislead the court, I defy any man to find one single sentence in that book in regard to instructing a jury. How does the court rule? I rule the instructions out, by golly." It is hardly necessary to state that the jury found for the plaintiff, but was after- wards reversed in the district court before Judge Wilson. Of the early practitioners, Brumbaugh, Borton, Mc- Hutcheon, Tibbetts, Wilder, Pilkenton and Taylor are dead; Heely, Humes, Austin, Dow and A. D. Wilson have moved away and have been lost sight of, while others have been heard from only occasionally. Great changes have been wrought in thirty years. Of all the attorneys who practiced before this court in the early 70's, only one remains in active continuous ser- vice; namely, Hon. N. T. VanNatta, who was admitted to practice in the courts of Kansas some time prior to the formation of the twelfth district, and who has been coun- sel in more cases in this county than any other attorney who has practiced here. Since the organization of the county. Judge Lynch has held but one session here, which was in the case of Fitz Myers, who stole a team, harness and wagon from Dock Hancock, of Union Valley, was pursued and cap- tured with the stolen property, near Blue Springs, Ne- HON. N. T. VANXATTA. History of Republic County. 113 braska, by William Stanley, brought back to Belleville, lodged in jail and one ({uiet Sabbath morning when Deji- uty Sheriff Latham went to the jail with the prisoner's breakfast, he found the door battered down and the pris- oner gone. Search was immediately commenced, and at the suggestion of Governor Doty, I believe, the searching party were headed for Riley Creek, directly'' west of town, where sure enough they found poor Pitz dangling from a butcher's derrick at the end of a rope. At this time the A. H. T. Association was well organized and ready to do business whenever its services were required. One of the most noted characters, one most widely known, perhaps, connected with the history of this court, was the late Judge L. W. Borton. Prom what has been said incidentally in another part of this chapter the read- er might get a wrong impression of Judge Borton's ability. So in this connection we have here a brief sketch of his history: Lewis W. Borton was born September 1st, 1831, in Guernsey county, Ohio, at which place he received his education, principally in the common schools; studied law and at the age of twenty years was admitted to the bar at Cambridge, the county seat of his native county, and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of the United States in 1885 He came to Kansas in '69 and set- tled at Clyde, Cloud county. In politics he was democratic, being the candidate of that i3arty for secretary of state in 1878. In 1882 he was elected to represent district No. 81, the same being the east half of Cloud county, in the state legislature, in which he served with distinguished ability. He died at his home in Clyde several years ago. To this we wish to add that Judge Borton's natural ability was far above the average, and no one who knew him, and who, himself, had a discriminative faculty above mediocrity, would fail to appreciate his wide range of information and his remarkable genius for "catching on" to the peculiari- ties of human nature. He was, without doubt, the most 114 History of Republic County. inveterate story teller — and most skillful — in the state. In the case of the State of Kansas vs. Jim Little, Judge Borton was counsel for the defendant. Little had been prosecuted for disposing of mortgaged property. At that time a chattel mortgage was considered pretty good security, but the rate of interest was very high, running all the way from two to five per cent a month, according to the necessities of the borrower. In this case Judge Wilson held that before the jury could find a verdict in a case wherein a person is charged with disposing of mortgaged property on which he has given a chattel mortgage, a fraudulent intent must be shown. Having secured the acquittal of his client under the ruling above noted. Judge Borton immediately, and while court was in session, wrote and handed to Judge Wilson the following verses: "A chattel mortgage in the west, Is like a cancer on your breast; It slowly eats your life away And saps your vitals day by day. A cloud by day and fire by night It stands before a poor man's sight, And haunts him in his dreams and sleep. While salt tears trickle down his cheek. A Sorghum Lapper, tired and poor, Sees B A N K in gold above the door, And when the threshold once is crossed The trap is sprung and all is lost. His team, his grain, his cow and hog. His bed and breeches, wife and dog, On the altar of three percent, are tossed. Time rolls along and all is lost. But now Judge Wilson comes and brings Good tidings on his healing wings. And says the man can't be rent Unless Old Shylock proves intent." History of Republic County. 115 CHAPTER XIL ELECTIONS AND ELECTION RETURNS. ELECTION 1868. Representative Ninetieth District. R. P. West, Ind. Rep 37 Capt. I. M. Schooley, Rep 28 State Senator Seventh District. A. A. Carnahan, of Cloud county 58 County Clerk John McFarlane 58 County Treasurer James G. Tuthill, Rep 60 Sheiiff II. H. Vining, Rep 61 County Supt. B. F. Sayler, Rep 59 Reg. of Deeds John McFarlane 58 Probate Judge Daniel Myers, Rep 64 County Commissioners. W. W. Nevvlon, Rep 64 Z. P. Rowe, Rep 59 Conrad Myers, Rep 63 County Surveyor William Hardaker, Rep 62 1869. Probate Judge. Daniel Myers, Rep 38 James VanNatta, Rep .. 33 Noah Kunkle, Rep 12 Francis McNulty 1 Supt. Public Instruction. Charles Hogan, Rep 48 B. F. Sayler 21 Coroner R. T. Harper, Rep ] Sheriff. W. H. Willoughby, Rep 90 J. H. Smock, Rep 33 Surveyor. E. P. Hedenskogg, Rep 59 N. O. Wilkie, Rep 69 Representative. R. P. West, Rep 68 John Manning, Rep 55 County Clerk. P. P. Way, Rep 71 116 History of Republic County. John McFarlaae, Rep 59 1869. Commissioners. A. Asbjornson, Rep 44 Z. P. Rowe, Rep 94 J. H. Frint, Rep 75 G. W. Johnson, Rep 73 G. Willoughby, Rep 55 Treasurer. Geo. J. Trovvbridg-e, Rep 64 John Swan, Rep 62 Register of Deeds. P. P. Way, Rep 64 John McFarlane, Rep 62 County Seat. Belleville 59 New Scandinavia 42 Sei 17-4-1 4 Salt Marsh 1 1870. State Senator Seventh District. A.G.Barrett, Rep... 87 Philip Rockefeller, Rep 223 Representative Ninetieth District. G. W. Johnson, Rep 112 N. T. VanNatta, Rep 211 Probate Judge. J. C. Griffith, Rep 182 1. N. Page, Rep 136 Clerk District Court. L. R. Dobyns, Rep 195 G. B. Austin, Rep 72 A. B. Tutton, Rpp 7 V. Vantrump, Rep 1 F. T. Powell, Rep 2 County Attorney. A. F. Heely, Rep 217 A. D. Wilson, Rep 27 Corey 3 County Superintendent. Charles Wilson, Rep 114 W. Lancaster, Rep 214 For the Herd Law 164 Against 28 History of Republic County. 117 ELECTION, NOVERIBER. 18ri REPRESENTATIVE 81ST DISTRICT. A. D. Wilson, Rep iTo R P. West, Ind. Rep XdA P. McHutcheon, lad. Rep I5i D. C. Gamble. Ind liep 77 Sam Austin 2 COUNTY CLERK. S. W. Skeels, Rep Sam Austin P. P. Way Andrew Engle Schenck SURVEYOR. J. G. Arbuthnot, Rep.. . J. S. Martin, Ind. Rep August Weld COMMISSIONER SKi;OND DISTRICT. J. H. Frint S. R Morlan A.B.Young S. A. McKay ELECTION STATE SENATOR 28TH DISTRICT. Elden Barker, of Jewell county PROBATE .1 DDOE. Joseph Boothe, Rep J. M. Rockhold, Ind. Rep Sam Austin CLERK DISTRICT COURT. ChauDcey Perry, Rep COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT. A. D. Marble E. T. Neel ELECTION REPRESENTATIVE 81ST DI.STRICT W. H. Pilkenton, Rep R. P. West, Ind. Rep A. D. Wilson. Ind. Rep COUNTY CLERK. Chauncey Perry, Rep E. M. Crummer, Ind. Rep A . Moree REGISTER OF DEEDS. R. J. Adams, Rep T. C. Smith, Ind. Rep John MeFarlane. Ind. Rep E. M. Crummer RAILROAD ASSESSOR. Perry Hutchinson, Rep I. B. Quimby. Dem 663 1 1 1 1 630 33 2 113 85 67 61 . NOV 1079 107.1 14 1 1129 1108 23 , NOV 51:-' 441 90 546 539 4 68d !-9 291 2 854 164 TREASURER. I. O. Savage, Rep 346 G. J. Trowbridge Ind. Rep .323 SHERIFF. W. W. Newlon. Ind. Rep 353 W. S. Latham. Rep 313 Joseph Merica 5 REGIS PER OF DEEDS. Ell O. Kindy, Rep 381 Volney Vantrump Ind Rep 273 CORONER. W. F. Compton, Rep 574 Dr. C. Taylor, Ind Rep 48 Ben Lake, Ind Rep 42 COMMISSIONER FIRST DISTRICT. J. P. Williams, Rep 99 J. M. Smith 5 Z. P. Rowe 1 COMMISSIONER THIRD DISTRICT. L. C. Hanson 113 G. W. Beebe 109 RAILROAD ASSESSOR. H. C. Sprengle 596 D. E. Ballard 36 EMBER, 1872. REPRESENTATIVE 8IST DISTRICT. Almond Shaw, Rep 724 R. P. West, Ind. Rep 412 S. B. Lum 6 COUNTY ATTORNEY. A. F. Heely, Rep 1 060 W. H. Pilkenton, Ind. Rep 29 Sam Austin l JUDGE 12TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT. A.S.Wilson 1088 EMBER, 187J. COUNTY TREASURER. I. O. Savage, Rep 826 J. E. Cooper. Ind. Rep 247 SHERIFF. Josiah Kindt, Ind. Rep 598 Robt. Swan, Rep.... 473 W. W. Newlon 4 COUNTY SURVEYOR. J. G. Arbuthnot, Rep 722 J. C. Price, Ind. Rep 365 CORONER. W. F. Compton. Rep 586 S. B. Lum. Ind. Rep 417 E. A.Hallo«^eU. Dem 63 J.C.Humphrey 7 118 Hisfoiy of Republic Comity. COMMISSIONER DISTRICT NO. 2. J. C. Reily, Rep J. Hooser, Ind. Rep L. C. Hanson, Ind. Rep J. H. Frint, Ind. Rep ELECTION, SENATOR 28th DISTRICT. Horace Cooper R. P. West, lud Rep REPRESENTATIVE 81ST DISTRICT. W. H. Pilkenton COUNTY ATTORNEY. A . F. Heely, Rep N. T. VanNatta, Ind. Rep PROBATE .JUDGE. Joseph Boothe, Rep W. H. Boyes, Ind. Rep H. G. Dow ELECTION, REPRESENTATIVE. R. P. West, Rep D C. Gamble, Ind Rep TREASURER. E. M. Crummer, Ind. Rep Robert Kyle A. Odell J. E. Cooper CLERK. C. Perry, Rep SHERIFF. Josiah Kindt, Ind, Rep R. W. Vandyke, Rep J. A. Mosher, Ind. Rep COUNTY SURVEYOR. J. C. Price, Kep ELECTION SENATOR 33D DISTRICT. James Strain, Rep L O. Savage, Ind. Rep L.'W. Borton, Dem REPRESENTATIVE 106TH DISTRICT. W. H. Pilkenton, Rep Milton Grim, Dem REPRESENTATIVE 107TH DISTRICT. Geo. L. White, Rep D. C. Gamble, Ind. Rep R. P. West A. J. Beers, Dem JUDOE 12th .JUDICIAL DISTl.ICT. A. S. Wilson, Rep COMMISSIONER DISTRICT NO. 1. 221 Robert Kyle. Rep 181 104 R, T. Stanfleld, Ind Rep 105 61 A. B Young, Ind. Rep 29 44 COMMISSIONER DISTRICT NO. 3. John Manning, Rep 166 S. R. Miller, Ind. Rep 78 R. Hodges, Ind. Rep 69 NOVEMBER, 1874. County superintendent. .510 D. C. (Jamble. Rep 670 491 B. W. Hollen, Ind. Rep 308 A. D. Marble, Ind. Rep 78 998 CLERK OF district COURT. John Brown. Rep 1050 563 Frank Sorgatz, Ind, Rep 20 470 Asa P. Wilbur appointed in April, 1876, to fill vacancy caused by resig- B64 nation of John Brown. 311 69 NOVEMBER, 1875. REGI^5TER OF DEEDS. 849 R J. Adams, Rep 1397 459 coroner. W. F. Compton, Rep 1378 520 COMMISSIONER 1st DISTRICT. 153 W. E. Day, Rep 186 152 C. A. Northrup, Ind. Rep 147 171 L. D. Smith 94 COMMISSIONER 2D DI.STRICT. 1379 J. T. Glasgow, Rep 260 L. C. Hanson, Ind. Rep 126 716 T. W. Johnson, Dem 101 457 COMMISSIONER 3D DISTRICT. 203 J. W. McCall, Rep '236 Geo. L. White, Ind. Rep 231 1398 , NOVEMBER, 1876. COUNTY ATTORNEY. 331 N. T. VanNatta, Rep 1098 1121 A. E. Taylor, Ind. Rep 603 310 PROBATE JUDGE. Joseph Boothe, Rep 998 625 J. C. Reily, Ind Kep 419 390 A. B. Young, Ind. Rep 370 SUP'T PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. . 354 J. C. Price, Rep 1362 60 J. M. Roach, Dem.. 431 104 CLERK DISTRICT COURT. , 169 Frank Armstrong, Rep., elected. .11.50 E. A. Hallowell. Dem 6.51 1482 Chas. F. Woodward appointed clerk October, 1878, to till vacancy caused by resignation of Frank Armstrong. History of Kepublic County. 119 ELECTION NOVEMUER, IH7 COUNTY CLERK. C. Perry liU:") COUNTY TRKASUHKB. E. M. Crummer, Rep Iiti4 SQERIFF. Wm. Norris 329 Brady Bowling. Dem 16V) Ffiink Brown, Ind. Rep 235 J. P. Forsbee, Rep 324 RE(;i.STER OF UBBDS. J. A. Mosher, Rep 574 E. A. Hallowell, Dem "i^'l CORONER. H. p. West, Ind. Rep 386 J. C. Reily, Rep 948 SURVEYOR. J. C. Price COMMISSIONER 1st DISTRICT. J. C. Keene, Rep W. E. Diiy, Ind. Rep COMMISSIONER. :Jnd district. L.C.Hanson, Rep W. McDonald, Ind. Rep Nicolas Marty. Ind. Rep ... COMMIS,SI()NER 3rd DISTRICT. J. H. McCall, Rep Peter Doctor, Ind. Rep :'4ti 131 268 127 11.5 2.'i3 182 ELECTION. NOVEIVIBER, 1878. REPRESENTATIVE 106TH DISTRICT Wm. M. Moore 284 J. (J. Arbuthnot, Ind. Rep 172 J. B. PoUurd 96 RBPRESENT.VTIVE 107th DISTRICT Geo. L. White, Rep 310 D. C. Gamble, Ind. Rep 199 A. D. Wilson . . 2.51 H. T. Wetzel 41 PROBATE JUDGE. Joseph Boothe 1220 COUNTY Attorney. N. T. VanNatta, Rep 1208 CLERK DISTRICT COURT. J. E. Hallowell. Rep J. P. Heaton, Ind. Rep SUP'T. PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. J. H. McOall. Rep J. H. Sherrard COMMISSIONER l.ST DISTRICT. A. B. Bachelor, Rep A. Steenblock W. W. Wait, Ind. Rep 911 411 I16« 193 196 20 157 ELECTION. NOVEMBER, 1S79. COUNTY TREASURER S. G. Stover, Rep 1878 50 M. W. Hodglns COUNTY CLERK. C. Perry. Rep 1074 M. C. Policy. Ind. Rep . . . . J. Williams SHERIFF. R. B. W^ard, Rep Josiah Kindt. Ind Rep J. P. Forshee. Ind Rep. .. E. D. Biigbee, Ind Rep... John A. Clark, Ind Rep . . Wm. Norris. Ind Rep. W. C. ShuU, Dem 820 39 549 648 229 28 29 258 199 REGISTER OF DEEDS E. A. Hallowell, Dem John Kh si, Kep E. D. Spafford CORONER. J. C. Reily, Rep G. W. Lash C. Taylor COMMISSIONER 2d DISTRICT. L. C. Hanson, Rep J. W. Smith. Ind Rep COMMISSIONER 3D DISTRICT. J. F. Wells, Rep Geo. Kidder, Ind Rep Conrad Meyers 1124 761 31 1125 52 693 384 293 337 271 20 SURVEYOR. J. C. Price, Rep 1339 W. H. Thompson, Greenback 299 E. W. Wagener, Ind Rep 55 120 History of Republic County. ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1880. CONSTITUTIONAL AMKNDMENT. For the constitutional amendment, prohibiting the manufacture and sale of intoxicating liquors Against SENATOh 3 !D DISTRICT. N. B Brown. Rep R. P. West, Ind Rep L. J. Crans, Dem County attokney. N. T. VanNatta, Rep L. J. Tibbetts, Dem T. M. Noble probate .judge. Joseph Boothe, Rep T. W. Johnson, Dem H. Smith Ind Rep CLERK of district COURT. J. E. Hallo well, Rep W. A. Allen, Dem Geo. H. Collins 919 477 1345 .733 158i 847 16 1941 536 130 1893 .^94 138 SUP'T. PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. J. M. Lawrence, Rep 1886 J. H. Sherrard 60S) W. H. Thompson l:^6 REPRESENTATIVE 106TH DISTRICT. W. H. Leigh, Rep 72.5 S. F. Vinton. Dem 332 S. M. Edwards, Rep 101 REPRESENTATIVE 107TH DISTRICT. D C. Gamble. Ind Rep 438 W P. Peake, Rep 689 F. N. Hart 40 W. ('. ShuU, Dem 275 COMMISSIONER 3D DISTRICT. J. F. Wells, Rep 583 .Samuel Whan, Dem 252 JUDGE OF 12th JUDICIAL DISTRICT. A. S. Wilson 2119 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, IsSl. COUNTY TREASURER. S. G. Stover, Rep 2U51 COUNTY CLERK. C. Perry. Rep, 1918 Geo. A. Terpening 162 REGISTER OF DEEDS J. A. Mosher, Rep 1039 E. A. Hallowell, Dem l(i7J SHERIFF. T. IVI Little, Rep .J36 Joriah Kindt, Ind. Rep 726 W. P. Rarick. Dem 700 J. B. Pollard 7 S. A. McKay, Ind. Rep 138 SURVKVOR E. W. Wagener, Rep W. H. Thompson, Greenback — CORONER. J. C. Reily, Rep A. Blocklinger, Ind. Rep COMMIS.SJONER 1ST DISTRICT. S. M. Edwards. Rep A. B. Bachelor. Ind. Rep COMMISSIONER 2NI) DISTRICT, E. S. McKay, Ind Rep John Goold T. Wohlfort, Rep 1717 399 1725 117 366 272 180 157 447 ELECTION, NOVEMBER. 188?. REPRESKKTATIVK 79TH DISTRICT. W.A.Reeves, Rep J. B. Pollard REPRESENTATIVE 80TH DISTRICT. Wm. Glasgow, Ind. Rep D. C. Gamble, Rep Geo. A. Terpening COUNTY ATTORNEY. T. M. Noble, Rep N. T. VanNatta, Ind. Rep B. K Surface PROBATE JUDGE. Joseph Boothe. Rep R. P. Cheney. Ind. Rep S. F. Vinton 603 350 490 561 183 11.59 . 825 25D 1392 299 545 SUP'T. PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. J. M. Lawrence. Rep 1.535 J. S. Carpenter, Ind. Rep 6 3 CLERK D STRICT I'OURT. E. A. Hallowell. Dem 1732 W. A. Hallowell. Rep 4'« COMMISSIONER 2ND DISTRICT. E. S. McKay. Ind. Rep 258 R. T. Stanheld ia5 T. Wohlfart, Rep 462 History oj Republic County 121 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 18^3. COUNTY THKA.SDKEK. E. M Crummer, Rep 151:- J. G. Arbuthnot, Ind. Kep 669 Robert Kyle. Ind. Rep 350 COUNTY CLKBK. Y. R. Parks, Dem 1376 Chuuncey Ferry. Kep 1138 SHKUIFF. T. C. Ueily 1115 Robert Swan 1390 RKGISTEIl OK DEEDS. L. K. White, Kep 1084 H. H. Hoffman, Dem 1-»13 Cheney Shu w, Ind. Kep 220 SUUVEYOK. Eli Wagener, Rep Fayette Smith COBONKB. J. M. Koolihold, Kep (ieo. Lembl^e. Ind. Kep C. W.Gvilick J. Woodhouse L. Altshul COMMISSIONER 3ltD DISTRICT. John p. Wells, Rep S. T. Rider, Ind. Rep Thomas Rider 2495 5 2.240 57 6 9 18 426 354 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1S84. •lUDCE 12th .JUD1C1.\1> di.stuict. Ed Hutchinson, Rep J. G. Lowe. Dem SBNATOH 27th DIST. Geo. H. Case. Rep. .1 C. Postlethwaite KEPKESENTATIVE 80TH DIST. William Glasgow, Kep A.I) Wilson, Ind Kep PltOB.^TE .JUDGE. Joseph Boothe, Rep K. P. West, Ind Kep 2112 1411 •2566 1080 103!) 89) 3,si3 654 COUNTY SUPT. John M. Lawrence, Rep 2417 J. H. Sherrard 1073 CLEHK OF DIST. COURT. John E. Hallowell. Kep 3450 COUNTY COMMISSIONER IST DIST. S.M.Edwards Rep 6.54 Wm. Brassfleld. Ind Rep 317 BEPRESENT.ATIVE 79TH DIST. W. A. Reeves, Kep 904 F. T. Outhbertson, Dem Iir3 COUNTY ATT'Y. T. M. Noble, Rep 3448 N.T. VanNatta 5 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1885. COUNTY TREASURER. E. M. Crummer. Rep W. F. Allen, Ind. Rep J. R. Bowersox, Prohibitionist.. COUNTY CLERK. H. O. Studley. Rep E. J. Fiala, Dem B. F. Surface, Ind. Rep SHEP.IFF. T. C. Roily, Rep I, G. Householder. Dem J. D Black, Ind. Rep J R. Hugos. Ind. Rep REGISTER t)F DEEDS. D. W. Hamilton. Rep H. H. Hoffman. Dem R. P. Cheney, Ind. Rep E. J. Dennison 1492 1379 328 1755 1086 332 1642 823 .372 304 1848 1053 230 10 COUNTY SURVEYOR. E. W. Wagner, Rep C. B. Keith, Dem J. H. Sherrard CORONER. Dr. H. Patrick, Rep S. B. Boyer, Dem L. R. Dobyns, Ind Rep COMMISSIONER 2D DISTRICT. J. W. Smith, Rep E. Stanton, Ind. Rep Gust Nelson, Ind Rep S. A. McKay, Ind Rep 2465 277 58 1800 834 336 429 191 403 51 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1886. COUNTY ATTORNEY. REPRESENTATIVE. 73D DISTHCT. Jay F. Close, Rep 2364 Gomer T. Davies Rep 831 122 History of Republic County. T. r. S. Cooper, Dem VIT,\ PUOBATB JUDGE. Edward Early, Ind. Rep 1~'()7 Joseph Boothe, Rep 1287 Geo. L. StubbleBeld, Dem 1082 COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT. B. T. Bullen, Rep 2166 Norn Pollard. ... 1309 J. M. Lawrence 16 CLEBK OF DISTRICT COURT. Jacob Beck, Rep 2575 Geo. A. Terpening 979 ELECTIOlf, NOVEMBER, 188 COUNTY TREASURER. S. M. Edwards, Rep 1089 Milton Grim, Dem 647 REPRESENTATIVE 74TH DISTRICT. J. A. Jacobs, Rep 1024 R. P. West, Ind. Rep 266 J. B. Edson, Dem 768 COMMISSIONER 3D DISTRICT. John F. Wells, Rep 8:i3 C.A.Campbell 368 C. P. Carstensen, Dem 1205 J. R. Bowersox, Prohibitionist, 131 I. O. Savage, Ind Rep 307 COUNTY CLERK. H. O. Studley, Rep 1673 F. W. Craft. Dem 939 Geo. M. Simpson 85 SHERIFF. T. C. Reily, Rep 1583 A. S. Orr, Dem 968 W. M. Moore 169 H. C. Swartz 4 REGI.STER OF DEEDS. D. W. Hamilton, Rep 1862 E. J. Fiala, Dem, 766 Charles Park Ill SURVEYOR. Fayette Smith, Rep 1960 CORONER. L. R. White, Rep 1834 G. D. Bowling, Dem 862 COMMISSIONER DI.STBICT NO. 1. Robert Kyle. Rep 368 J. S. Davenport, Dem 143 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1888. .JUDGE 12th JUDICIAL DISTRICT. F. W. Sturgls, Rep 2637 L. J. Crans, Dem 1027 STATE SENATOR 32D. DISTRICT. E. E. Swearengen, Rep 2392 1296 E. A. Hallowell, Dem. M. E. Grover J. B. Mosher 64 130 PROBATE JUDGE. Charles Northrop, Rep James J, Wilkes Joseph Boothe. Ind. Rep — J. M. Galloway COUNTY ATTORNEY. Jay F. Close, Rep Morris Cooper, Dem T, C. S. Cooper, Dem Steve Rost T. P. Harris REPRESENTATIVE 73D DISTRICT. Gomer T. Davies. Rep 1057 B. L. Mitchum, Dem 578 W, M. Moore 76 REPRESENTATIVE 74TH DISTRICT. A. D. Wilson, Rep 1117 Ernest Davis, Dem 683 T. J, Mahaffa, Ind. Rep 64 W. A. Glasgow, Ind. Rep 69 R. P. West, Ind. Rep 189 CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT. Jacob Beck, Rep D. H. Hamlin Oscar Parks County superintendent. B. T. Bullen, Rep Geo. W. Moore, Dem Mrs. M. O. Kamp Mrs. Angeline Allison COMMISSIONER 2D DISTRICT. J. W. Smith, Rep Geo. D. Bowling, Dem 2004 601 1039 111 2769 38 5 7 217 2763 80 124 2563 1068 92 137 756 .564 History of Republic County. 123 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1889. COUNTY TREASURKB. E. W. Wagener, Rep 1321 1873 68 C. P. Carstensen, Dem F. E. Thompson CODNTT CLKKK. R. H. Galloway, Rep 3093 G. M. Thompson 84 SHERIFF. Bruce Cuthbertson, Dem 13V6 H. C. S wartz. Rep 1838 C. C. Payne, Prohib &5 REGISTEROF DEEDS. J. A. Mosher. Rep 1686 A. A. Hamilton, Ind. Rep 1463 W.A.Glasgow 74 CORONER. L. R. White, Rep 3092 SURVEYOR. F. A. Smith, Rep 3114 COMMIS.SIONER, 3rd DISTRICT. John M. Campbell 824 .John F. Wells 406 William Beatty 8 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1890. REPRESENTATIVE T3rd DISTRICT. J. C. Dale, Rep 754 J. T. Ingraham, Pop 737 C.Payne. Pro 12 REPRESENTATIVE 74th DISTRICT. A. W. Miller, Rep 905 C. R. Cleveland. Pop 1188 S. M. Hunt, Prohib 10 PROBATE .JUDGE. C. A. Northrop, Ind. Rep 15'7 Joseph Boothe 638 J. F. Glasgow. Pop 1804 CLERK DISTRICT COURT. Jacob Beck, Rep 1893 A. Ellingson. Pop 1982 J. M. Ryan. Prohib 30 SUP'T PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. D. K. Thomas, Rep C. E. Costolo, Pop SURVEYOR. John D. Andrews, Rep J. F. Haley, Pop Perry Heaton COMMISSIONER l.ST DISTRICT. Robert Kyle, Rep David Van Aken, Pop COUNTY ATTORNEY. T. C. S. Cooper, Pop W T. DUIon •Special election held December 30th 1S90 for State senator to till vacancy caused by death of E. E. Swearengen. S. C. Wheeler, Pop of Cloud Co.. John W. Sheafor, Rep " 1816 2075 1700 2049 50 606 694 2223 1580 1663 1178 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1891. COUNTY TREASURER. Joseph Kuchera, Rep 1754 H. H. Collins. Pop 1.5.58 J. B. Edson, Dem 358 COUNTY CLERK. R H. Galloway, Rep 18,50 O. P. Miller. Pop 1648 M. E. Hall. Dem 185 REGISTER OF DEEDS. J. A. Mosher, Rep 1672 Orrin Abbey. Pop 1642 E. A. Hallowell, Dem 357 SHERIFF. H. C. S wartz. Rep 1C33 J. A. Donielson, Dem 434 Bruce Cuthbertson, Pop 1616 SURVEYOR. J, C.Price, Rep 1757 Geo. Parker, Pop 1636 CORONER. L. R- White, Rep 1763 J. W. Mcintosh. Pop 1593 J. H. Houck 319 COMMISSIONER DISTRICT NO. 2. Jonathan Taylor, Rep 533 C. G. Anderson, Pop 625 Mike Weislogel, Dem 46 124 History of Republic County. ELECTION. NOVEMBER, 1S92. SENATOR 32n DISTRICT. B. R. Hogin, Kep 2145 Geo. D. Bowling, Pop 2054 Geo. M. Simpson, Pro 103 REPRESENTATIVE 61ST DI&TKICT. .r. M. Foster. Kep 21f54 J. W. Wilds, Pop . . 20fi7 L. M. IMorris. Pro 99 .)UD(JB12TH judicial DISTl.ICT. F. W. Sturgi.s. Kep 2221 A. R. May, Pop 3029 PROUATE JUDGE. John A. .Jacobs, Rep 2l4t J.T.Glasgow. Pop 3076 Frank E. Thompson, Pro 74 CLERK OF DISTRICT COURT. Joseph H. Long. Rep 2092 A. FllingsoD. Pop 3i:i0 Chas. Early. Pro 96 SUP'T. PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. E. L. Glasgow. Rep 2174 C E. Costolo. Pop . . 2060 Mrs. E. S. Boyes. Pro . 76 COUNTY ATTORNEY. Jay F Close, Rep 2157 T. C. S. Cooper, Pop 2OS0 COMMISSIONER THIKD DISTRICT. A. R. Dillehay, Rep 723 W. H. Terpening 721 Oscar Park. Pro 54 ELECTION NOVEMBER. 1893. COUNTY TREASURER. H. A. Hansen, Pop 1338 Joseph Kuchera. Kep 1964 M. L. Canfleld, Prohib 101 F. M. Baxter, Dem 175 SHERIFF. Fremont Crummer, Pop 149s R. B. Ward, Rep 1919 C. C. Ingersol, Prohib 93 S.B.King, Dem 209 COUNTY CLERK. A. P. Gamble. Pop 1445 F. N. Woodward, Rep 1964 T S. Walter, Phohib 8j C. F. Scholer. Dem 310 REGISTER OF DEEDS D. C. Bowersox, Pop 1451 K. T. Jellison, Rep 1911 T. J. Baird, Prohib 88 W. M Babcock, Dem 252 SURVEYOR. James Rickel, Pop E. W. Wageuer. Rep F. A. Smith, Prohib A. E. Whan, Dem CORONER. J. W. Mcintosh, Pop, ... L. R. White Rep R. P. Cheney. Prohib G. D. Bowhng. Dem COMMISSIONER 1st DISTRICT. T. E. Collins. Pop Robert Kyle. Kep J. T. WBitOeld, Dem 1455 1926 110 211 1427 1898 100 214 510 663 16 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1894. REPRESENTATIVE 6IST DISTRICT. J. M. Foster, Rep 3038 Wm. Kamp, Dem 200 H.N Boyd, Pop 1653 Geo. M. Simpson, Prohib 91 PROBATE JUDCJB. J. A. Jacobs, Rep 2068 James Washburn. Dem 163 Frank Sager, Pop 1680 W. W. Hulett, Prohib 75 CLERK DI.STRICT COURT. S. A. Ingham. Kep 2076 Geo. Litsinger.Pop 1785 Charles Park. Prohib 86 COUNTY ATTORNEY. Jay F Close, Rep 2031 B. F. Surface, Pop 1819 SUP'T. PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. E. L. Glasgow, Kep 2072 Samuel J. Henry, Pop 1843 COMMISSIONER 2D DISTRICT. Wm. Bell, Kep 769 F. M Boyd 44 J. W. Ambrose. Pop 494 History of Republic County. 125 KLECTION, NOVKMBKIt, IS.Ii. TREASURKK. R. T. Stanfleld, Uep 14t55 H. A. naxter. Pop 1418 A. M. Cantield. Prohib 'ri COUNTY CLERK. K. N. Woodward. Kep 1008 A. EUingson. Pop 1299 Geo. M. Simpson, Proliib 69 RE(iISTEK OF DEEDS. U. T. Jellison. Rep 161.5 A B Cheney, Pop .. 128S H. B. Walter. Prohib 76 SHERIFF. li. B. Ward, Kep . I6C1 A. B. Brosh. Pop 785 A. Brosh. Pop 455 A. W. Dowd. Prohib 75 SURVEYOR. I. C. Ware, Kep D. A. Davies, Pop ('ORONEK. L. K. White. Rep .1. H. Mallory. Pop Dr. Hall, Prohib COMMISSIONER 3D DISTRICT. A. W. Miller, Kep G. W. Covvle. Pop 1607 1577 1276 73 513 499 ELECTION, NOVEMBEK. 1896. JUDGE OF 12th JUDICIAL DISTRICT. F. W. Sturges, Rep 2ft5:J A. A Carnahan, Pop 1467 SENATOR 3iD DISTRICT. Chas. W. Gulicli, Kep 1985 W. A. Mosher, Pop 18S4 REPRESENTATIVE 61ST DISTRICT T. Arbuthnot. Rep 1870 John M. Doyle Silver Rep 1970 C. C. Payne, Pro 20 COMMISSIONER IST DISTRICT. A. Wetral, Kep 621 H. H. Hollmun, Pop 620 A. W. Dowd, Pro 4 PROBATE JUDGE. John A. Jacobs, Rep 1986 A. M Canfield, Pro 20 J T. Glast?ow, Pop 1878 CLERK DISTRICT COURT. S.A.Ingham, Rep 2021 Walter CanQeld, Pro 27 James A. Lacey, Pop 1830 COUNTY ATTORNEY. B. T. Bullen, Kep 1977 N. T. VanNatta, Pop 1867 SUP'T PUBLIC INSTRUCTION. Lucy Howard. Rep 188.> Elenora Harris Ind 1763 Frank Kundus, Ind 212 ELECTKW, NOVEMBER, 1897. COUNTY TREASURER. R. T. Stantield, Kep 1799 Emmett Keith. Pop )731 COUNTY CLERK. D. Y Wilson, Rep 1879 R. A. Larabee. Pop 1627 RE(;iSTER OF DBEDS. B. D. Woods, Rep 1911 J. W. Plotner. Pop 1605 SHERIFF. Frank N. Brown, Rep 1889 Eugene McDonald. Dem 1616 ELEOTIOX, NOVEMBER, 1898. SENATOR 32D DISTRICT. COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT. R. B. Ward. Rep. • 2078 Lucy Howard. Rep 1977 Gomer T. Davies. I'op 1HU5 ICd. Benson, P.>p 1518 CORONER Dr. S. Morgan. Rep 1833 Dr. W. G. Haning. Dem 166? SURVKVOR. I. C. Ware, Rep 188.) Chas. E. Hoard. Pop 1586 COMMISSIONER 2ND DISTRICT. Wm. Bell. Rep 926 L. Rasmusson 499 126 History of Republic County. REPRESENTATIVE GlST DISTRICT. F.N.Woodward' Rep 2081 C. A. Potts, Dem 1381 CLERK OK DISTRICT COURT. B. B. McCall, Rep 3100 Joe Shimek, Pop... 1408 COUNTY ATTORNEY. B. T. Bullen, Rep 2:^45 John Brown. Pop 1295 PROBATE JUDGE. .1. T. Patterson, Rep 1917 H. T. Bedell, Pop 1632 COMMISSIONER DISTRICT NO. 3. A. W. Miller, Rep 718 Wm. J, Kennedy, Dem t02 ELECTION. NOVEMBER. 1899. COUNTY TREASURER. H. B. S wanson. Rep 2195 G. D, Bowling. Pop 1283 COUNTY CLERK D. Y. Wilson. Rep 2119 R. A. Larabee. Pop 1322 REGISTER OF DEEDS. B. D. Woods, Rep 9149 C. M. Kelly. Pop 130t) SHERIFF- F. N. Brown, Rep 1977 Eugene McDDnald, Pop 1493 SURA^EYOH. I. C. Ware, Rep 2166 CORONER. Wm. F. Howard. Rep 2005 Wm. Kamp, Dem 1318 COMMISIMONER FIRST DISTRICT. A. Wegal, Rep 612 Joseph Horak. Pop 411 ELECTION, NOVEMBER, 1900. JUDGE 12th JUDICIAI, DISTRICT. Jay F. Close. Rep ' Hugh Alexander, Dem STATE SENATOR .S2D DISTRICT. R. B. Ward. Rep John M. Doyle. Silver Rep RKPRKSENTATIVE 6JTH DISTRICT. F.N.Woodward, Rep John F. S wenson. Pop PROBATE JUDGE. J. T. Patterson. Rep A. B. Bachelor, Pop 1972 2382 2165 2204 2384 2005 2247 2145 CLERK DISTRICT COURT. B. B. McCall, Rep Alvin Campbell, Pop COUNTY ATTORNEY. John C. Hogin , Rep John Brown. Pop COUNTY SUPRRINTENDENT. Edgar E. Baird, Rep J. D. .James, Pop COMMISSIONER 2ND DISTRICT. R. Rimol. Rep H. H. Smith, Pop ; 2333 2048 2583 1779 2257 2117 840 527 I herewith present a list of all the officials who have been elected to administer the county government since its organization in 1868, down to and including 1900, also our representatives in the legislature, state senators and Judges of the District court. Year. COUNTY CLERK 1868 .John McFarlane 1869 Philo P Way 1871 Samuel W Skeels 1873 Chauncey Perry 1875 Chauncey Perry Year COUNTY TREASURER 1868 .Tames G Tuthill 1869 George .J Trowbridge 1871 Isaac O Savage 1873 Isaac O Savage 1875 Edwin M Crummer History of Republic County. 127 1877 Chauncey Perry 1877 1879 Chauncey Perry 1879 1881 Chauncey Perry 1881 1883 Yuba R Parks 1883 1885 Hiram O Studley 1885 1887 Hiram () Studley 1887 1889 Robert H Galloway 1889 1891 Robert H (Jalloway 1891 1893 Fred N Woodward 1893 1895 Fred N Woodward 1895 1897 Dick Y Wilson 1897 1899 Dick Y Wilson 1899 Year. SHERIFF. Year. 18(i8 Robert H. Vining 1868 1869 William H. Willoughby 1869 1871 William W. Newlon 1871 1873 Josiah Kiodt 1873 1875 Josiah Kindt 1875 1877 William Norris 1877 1879 Josiah Kindt 1879 1881 Josiah Kindt 1881 1883 Robert Swan 1883 1885 Thomas C. Reily 1885 1887 Thomas C. Reily 1887 1889 Henry C. Swartz 1889 1891 Henry C. Swartz 1891 1893 Richard B. Ward 1893 1895 Richard B. Ward 1895 1897 Frank N. Brown 1897 1899 Frank N. Brown 1899 Year COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT Year 1868 Benjamin F. Sayler 1870 1869 Charles Hogan 1872 1870 Wilson Lancaster 1874 1872 Albert D. Marble 1876 1874 David C. Gamble 1878 1876 Judson C. Price 1880 1878 James H. McCall 1882 1880 John M. Lawrence 1884 1882 John M. Lawrence 1886 1884 John M. Lawrence 1888 1886 Benj. T. BuUen 1890 1888 Benj. T. Bullen 1892 1890 Charles E. Costolo 1894 Edwin M Crummer Solomon G Stover Solomon Ci Stover Edwin M Crummer Edwin M Crummer Carsten P Carstensen Carsten P Carstensen Joseph Kuchera Joseph Kuchera Richard T Stanfield Richard T Stanfield Henry B Swanson REGISTER OF DEEDS. John McFarlane Philo P. Way Eli O Kindy Robert J. Adams Rob art J. Adams Edward A. Hallowell Edward A. Hallowell Edward A. Hallowell Henry H. Hoffman David W. Hamilton David W. Hamilton James A. Mosher James A. Mosher Robert T. Jellison Robert T. Jellison Ben D. Woods Ben D. Woods COUNTY ATTORNEY Asa F. Heely Asa F. Heely Asa F. Heely Nelson T. VanNatta Nelson T. VanNatta Nelson T. VanNatta Thomas M. Noble Thomas M. Noble Jay F. Close Jay F. Close T. C. S. Cooper Jay F. Close Jay F. Close 128 History of Repiiblif County 1892 Edward L. Glasgow 1896 Benj. F. Bullen 1894 Edward L. Glasgow 1898 Benj. F. Bullen 1896 Lucy Howard 1900 John C Hogin 1898 Lucy Howard 1900 Edgar E. Baird Year. PROBATE JUDGE. 1868 Daniel Myers 1689 Daniel Myers 1870 John C. Griffith 1872 Joseph Boothe 1874 Joseph Boothe 1876 Joseph Boothe 1878 Joseph Boothe 1880 Joseph Boothe 1882 Joseph Boythe 1884 Joseph Boothe 1886 Joseph Boothe 1888 Charles A. Northrop 1890 J. T. Glasgow 1892 John A. Jacobs 1894 John A Jacobs 1896 John A. Jacobs 1898 Joseph T. Patterson 1900 Joseph T. Patterson Year. CLERK DISTRICT COURT 1870 L. R. Dobyns 1872 Chauncey Perry 1874 John Brown 1876 Frank Armstrong 1878 John E. Hallowell 1880 John E. Hallowell 1882 John E. Hallowen 1884 John E. Hallowell 1886 Jacob Beck 1888 Jacob Beck 1890 Axel Ellingson 1892 Axel Ellingson 1894 Silas A. Ingham 1896 Silas A. Ingham 1898 Bert B. McCall 1900 Bert B. McCall COUNTY COMMISSIONERS. 1868 Appointed by Gov. Crawford on September^ 7th— John Harris John M. Campbell, T. C. Reily. Year. COUNTY SURVEYOR. 1868 William Hardaker 186!) N. O. Wilkie 1871 James G. Arbuthnot 1873 James G. Arbuthnot 1875 Judson C. Price 1877 Judson C. Price 1879 Judson C. Price 1881 Eli W. Wagener 1883 Eli W. Wagener 1885 Eli W. Wagener 1887 Fayette A. Smith 1889 Fayette A. Smith 1891 Judson C. Price 1893 Eli W. Wagener 1895 Isaiah C. Ware 1897 Isaiah C. Ware 1899 Isaiah C. Ware Year CORONER 1869 R. T. Harper 1871 W. F. Compton 1873 W. F. Compton 1875 W. F. Compton 1877 John C. Reily 1879 John C. Reily 1881 John C. Reily 1883 John M. Rockhold 1885 Henry Patrick 1887 L. R. White 1889 L. R. White 1891 L. R. White 1893 L. R. White 1895 L. R. White 1897 S. Morgan 1899 William F. Howard History of Republic County. 129 18()8 Elected— W. W. Newlon, Z. P. Howe, Conrad Myers. 1869 Elected— Z. F. Rowe, J. H. Frint, G. W. Johnson. 1871 Elected— L. C. Hanson, .1. H. Frint, J. C. Williams. 1873 Elected— Robert Kyle, J. C. Reily, John Manning. 1875 1st District, W. E. Day; 2 Dist., J. T. (xlasgow; 3rd Dist., J. H. McCall. 1877 1st Dist., J. C. Keene, 1 year, 2nd Dist., L. C. Hanson, 2 years: ."Jrd Dist., J. H. McCall, .5 years. 1878 1st Dist., A. B. Bachelor, ,3 years. 1879 2nd Dist., L. C. Hanson, 3 years: .3rd Dist., .Fohn F. Wells, 1 year. 1880 .3rd Dist, John F. Wells, 3 years. 1881 1st Dist., S. M. Edwards, 3 years: 2nd Dist.. Thure Wohl- fart. 1882 2nd Dist., Thure Wohlfart, 3 years. 1883 3rd Dist., John F. W^olls, 3 years. 1884 1st Dist., S. M. Edwards, 3 years, 1885 2nd Dist., J. W. Smith, 3 years. 1886 3rd Dist., John F. Wells, V> years 1887 1st Dist., Robert Kyle, 3 years. 1888 2nd Dist., J. W. Smith, 3 years. 1889 John M. Campbell, 3rd Dist., 3 years. 1890 Kobert Kyle, 1st Dist., 3 years. 1891 C. G. Anderson, 2nd Dist., 3 years. 1892 A. R. Dillehay, 3rd Dist., 3 years. 1893 Robert Kyle, 1st Dist., 1st Dist., 3 years. 1894 William Bell, 2nd Dist., 3 years. 1895 A. W. Miller, 3rd Dist., 3 years. 1896 A. Weg-al, 1st Dist., 3 years. 1897 Wm. Bell, 2nd Dist., 3 years. 1898 A. W. Miller, 3rd Dist., 3 years. 1899 A Wegal, 1st Dist., 3 years. 1900 R. Rimol, 2nd Dist., 3 years. STATE SENATOR 7TH DISTRICT. 1868 A. A. Carnahan, of Cloud County. The Seventh Senatorial District comprised the counties of Cloud, Republic, Marshall, Riley and Washington. Sen- ator Carnahan's majority in the district was 932. At this time there were only twenty-five senatorial districts in the state. 130 History of Republic County. 1810 Philip Rockefeller, of Washington County. Majority in the district 56S. Senator Rockefeller served in the 8th Kansas Infantry — John A. Martin's regiment. Sec- ond Lieutenant Co. D, April 30th, 1863; First Lieutenant same company, September 15th, 18(53, and Captain same company, November 4th, 18(i3. STATE SENATOR 28TH DISTRICT 1872 Elden Barker, of Jewell County. This district comprised the counties of Lincoln, Phillips, Smith, Jevirell, Republic, Cloud, Clay, Mitchell, Osborne, Ottawa and Norton. Senator Barker was elected without opposition, receiving 6538 votes in the district. STATE SENATOR 28TH DISTRICT. 1874 Horace Cooper, of Mitchell County. R. P. West, of Republic, was independent candidate. Sen- ator Cooper's majority in the district was 3991. STATE SENATOR 33 D DISTRICT. 1876 I. O. Savage, of Republic County. Composed of the counties of Cloud and Republic, the term of office having been changed from two to four years. This year James Strain, of Concordia, was the Kepublican nominee; Louis W. Bortoa, of Clyde, Democratic nominee; I. O. Savage running as Independent Rgpublican. Senator Savage's plurality in Republic county 477, in the district, 14. STATE SENATOR 33rd DIST. 1880 N. B. Brown, Rep., of Cloud county. The opposition was R. P. West, of Republic county, Ind. Rep., and L. J. Crans, of Cloud, Dem. The vote was as follows: Republic county, Brown 447 Republic county. West 1345 Republic county, Crans 728 Cloud county. Brown 1509 Cloud county, West 573 Cloud county, Crans 938 Senator Brown's plurality in the district, 38. STATE SENATOR, 27th DIST 1884 George H. Case, Rep., of Jewell county. The state having been redistricted, making this the 27th District. Including Republic and Jewell counties. Senator Case's majority in district, 2025. History of Republic County. 181 STATE SENATOR, 32d DIST 1888 E. E. Swearengen, Rep., of Cloud Couaty. The district having been changed to Cloud and Republic and numbered as the 32d. Ssnator Swearengen's plurality in the district, 2517. 1890 S. C. Wbeeler, Pop., of Cloud Couuty. Special Election. Majority in District, IKi!). STATE SENATOR 32D DISTRICT. 18!»2 George D. Bowling, Pop., Re])ublic County. Plurality in district, J 58. STATE SENATOR 320 DISTRICT. 18!»3 W. A. Mosher, Pop., Cloud County. Majority in district, 342. STATE SENATOR 32D DISTRICT. 1898 R. B. Ward, Rep., Republic County. To fill vacancy caused by death of Senator W. A. Mosher. Senator Ward's majority in district, 695. STATE SENATOR 32D DISTRICT 1900 R. B. Ward, Rep., Republic County. Majority in district, 74. SPECIAL ELECTION. Held December 30th, 1890, for State Senator to fill vacancy caused by death of E. E. Swearengen. S. C. Wheeler, Pop im2 John W. Sheafor. Rep 1178 1888 November 6th: E. E. Swearengen, Rep 2392 E. A. Hallowell, Dem 1295 M. E. CJrover, Ind 64 J. B. Mosher, Ind 127 1896 C. W. Gulick 1985 W. A. Mosher 1884 Gomer T. Davies, Pop 1580 R. B. Ward, Rep 2223 REPRESENTATIVES IN STATE LEGISLATURE. 18()8 R. P. West 70th Dist 1882 D. C. Gamble 80th Dist 1869 R. P. West 9()th Dist 1884 W. A. Reeves 79th Dist 1898 182 History of Republic County. 1870 N. T. VanNattaOOth Dist 1884 Wm. Glasgow 80th Dist 1871 A. D. Wilson 81st Dist 1886 Gomer T. Davies 73d Dist 1872 Almond Shaw 81st Dist 1886 J. A. Jacobs 74th Dist 1873 W. B. Pilkenton 81st Dist 1888 Gomer T. Davies 73 Dist 1874 W. H. Pilkenton 81st Dist 1888 A. D. Wilson 74th Dist 1875 R. P. West 81st Dist 1890 J. T. Ingraham 73d Dist 1876 W. H. Pilkenton 106th Dist 1890 C. R. Cleveland 74th Dist 1876 Geo. L. White 107th Dist 1892 J. M. Foster 61st Dist 1878 Wm. M. Moore 106th Dist 1894 J. M. Foster 61st Dist 1878 Geo. L. White 107th Dist 1896 John M. Doyle 61st Dist 1880 W. H. Leigh 106th Dist 1898 F. N. Woodward 61st Dist 1880 W. P. Peake 107th Dist 1900 F. N. Woodward 64th Dist 1882 W. A. Reeves 79th Dist JUDGES DISTRICT COURT 12TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT. 1871 A. S. Wilson 1872 A. S. Wilson Appointed March 19, 1871. 1876 A. S. Wilson 1880 A. S. Wilson Resigned October, 1884. 1884 Joseph G. Lowe appointed October 27th, 1884, held the office^ ten days and resigned. 1884 A. A. Carnahan appointed November 11th, 1884. 1884 Edward Hutchinson 1888 F. W^. Sturges 1892 F. W. Sturges 1896 F. W. Sturges 1900 Hugh Alexander CHAPTER XIV. COUNTY BUILDINGS. In the spring of 1872 the question of erecting county buildings at Belleville and building a bridge across the Republican at New Scandinavia was agitated, all agreeing that these improvements were badly needed. Petitions were circulated and signed, principally by those living in the vicinity of the two points named. These petitions were presented to the Board of County Commissioners at a meeting held June 14th, 1872, asking that an election be called for the purpose of voting the bonds of the county to History of Republic County. 133 the amount of !^30,000 — $15,000 of said bonds to be appro- priated to the erection of county buildings at Belleville and $15,000 to be appropriated to the erection of a bridge across the river at the foot of 4th St., in the town of New Scandinavia, whereupon it was ordered that an election be held in the several voting precincts, on Tuesday, July 16th, for the purpose of voting for and against the proposition as set forth in the petition. Said bonds to be drawn in amounts of $1,500 each, with interest coupons attached, payable annually, on the 1st day of July at the rate of 7 per cent., three thousand dollars of said bonds to be paid July 1st, 1877, and three thousand dollars each year there- after, until the whole amount be paid. This proposition was submitted in such a manner that a voter could cast his ballot for each proposition separate- ly; that is to say, he could vote for the county building bonds and reject the bridge bonds and vice versa. The board of commissioners met July 19th. 1872, to canvass the vote with the following result: Foi- Against Fo'* Against TOWNSHIPS BuiW. Build. Bridge Br'dge Bond Bond Bond Bond Albion 50 50 Belleville 65 8 34 28 Elk Creek 75 1 74 Farmington 5 44 1 48 Fairview (i 46 46 Freedom 16 46 24 26 Grant 2 79 3 78 Jefferson 10 3£> ;i 44 Lincoln 57 57 Liberty 43 42 Norway 47 2 45 Rose Creek 71 71 Ricbland 77 77 Scandia 38 62 93 9 Soldier 1 41 37 3 Union 3 77 8 72 White Rock 108 10 9H Buffalo Precinct 7 7 10 Total 14() 977 223 878 The result showing that both propositions were de- feated by a very decisive vote, Albion, Lincoln, Liberty, Rose Creek and Richland being unanimous in opposition 134 His/oiy of Republic Couiify. to both propositions, while Elk Creek and Farmington had one man each who wanted a bridge across the river, one man in Soldier township wanted county buildings and thirty-seven wanted the bridge across the river and three who thought the bridge unnecessary. Norway solid in opposition to county buildings and only two men who had any use for a bridge. White Rock unanimous in opposi- tion to county buildings, but ten men who wanted the bridge, Belleville being the only precinct in which both propositions received a majority. The result of this election would seem to indicate that the early settlers were averse to creating a bonded indebt- edness, although the fall before a proposition to extend the aid of the county to the Central Branch of the Union Pacific railroad in the sum of $100,000 was carried by a majority of twenty. The next proposition having for its object the building of a court house and which met with more favor and proved n ore successful than the one above described, was made to the Board of County Commission- ers August 12th, 1872, and was as follows: The Belleville Town Site company proposed to donate to the county of Republic, for the erection of a court house on the public square in the said town of Belleville, the sum of two thousand dollars, in town lots, providing the board of commissioners would appropriate for the same purpose, the sum of one thousand dollars, which proposi- tion was agreed to by the board, Mr. Print and Mr. Williams voting in the attirmative and Mr. Hanson voting in the negative, claiming that there was no law for mak- ing such an appropriation. August 13th the Townsite company presented a deed for 126 lots, which was accepted by the Boai-d. October 9th, 1872, the following building committee was appointed: viz, J. H. Print, Chairman; V. Vantrump and Charles H. Smith. The contract for building the Court House and jail was awarded to I. D. Edwards, he being the best re- sponsible bidder. The Court House was 24x50 feet and History of Republic County. 135 two stories high, situated on lots 11 and 12 in Block 16, N. side of square, the second story being all in one room and used for court room. The lower floor was divided into five rooms which were occupied by the county ofticers as fol- lows, beginning at the south door: No. 1, Register of Deeds and Clerk of District Court. No. 2, Sheriff and County Surveyor. No. 3, Probate Judge and County Attorney.' No. -4, Treasurer aod Coroner. No. 5, County Clerk and County Superintendent. And were occupied as county offices until the comple- tion of the present Court House in December, 188?, when it was sold to John Shemonski fur $1,705, was remodeled into a hotel and was finally destroyed by fire, Feburary 15th, 1890. At a meeting of the Board of Commissioners held April 15th, 1887, a contract was made with Ditto Brothers to remove the old jail from its location on lot 12, block 16, to lot 6, block 35, said last named lot being owned by the county, to place it on a good foundation, to remove the fence and place it around the jail, all to be done in a good workmanlike manner for the sum of fifty dollars, ■where the old building still stands as a relic of the early 70's. At a meeting of the Board of County Commissioners held August 4th, 1884, a levy of fifty cents on each $100 of taxable property in the county was made for the pur- pose of creating a Court House building fund. S. M. Edwards, of Albion township, was at this time commissinner from District No. 1 and chairman of the board; Thure Wohlfart, of Scandia township, was commis- sioner from District No. 2 and John F. Wells, of Belle- ville township, was commissioner from District No. 3, Y. R. Pa'ks being county clerk. Mr. Edwards and Mr. Wells voted in favor of the levy and Mr. Wohlfart record- ing his vote in opposition to it. This was the first step taken toward the building of the present Court house. The board met again on December 10th. 1884, and 136 History oj Republic County. contracted with HuLse & Moses and Uiricb brothers to erect the court liouse on plans and specifications furnished by George Ropes, architect, at a cost to the county of $r)52.80 for said plans and specifications. Hugh A. Scott was appointed by the board to superintend its construe tion at a salary of $3.00 per day time actually employed. 1883 Net court house tax collected was * i)")^" 8:! 1884 10707 57 Total 202-45 39 The original contract for the build ing was 189(58 00 Extras 294 00 Total cost of the court house proper 19262 00 Furniture for court house, A. H. Andrews efe Co 'MMS\ 50 Miscellaneous items, including- architects' and superin- tendents' bills 2020 55 Grand total when ready for occupancy $24344 05 The building was accepted by the commissioners De- cember 22, 1885. A special meeting of the board of com- missioners called for the purpose of adopting plans and specifications for a jail and jailor's residence and to order advertisement for bids for the construction of the same was held at Belleville February 12th, 1889. The commis- sioners at this time were J. W. Smith, commissioner Sec- ond district, chairman; Robert Kyle, commissioner First district; John F. Wells, commissioner Third district; all beingpresent,and after a careful examination of plans and specifications presented by Geo. W. Cochler, architect, then living at Belleville, it was ordered that the county clerk advertise in The Belleville Telescope for sealed bids for the material and construction of said buildings and for the jail cells. After examining several building sites upon which to construct said buildings, the board decided to build them on the southeast corner of the public or Court House square. The board met in regular session April 10th, 1889, that being the expiration of the time in which bids were to be received. The bids on file were opgned and found to be as follows: History of Republic County. 137 Van Ness & Crispin, of Belleville, Kansas, on build- in.ff, S4955.90; Lund & Carson, Belleville, Kansas, !B4884. 50, a difference of only ^^71. 40; Van Dorn Iron Works, Cleve- land, Ohio, cells and ironwork, $3640.00; Diebold Safe and Lock Co., Canton, cells and iron work, $4,950.00; Prank F. Dinsmoor, Lawrence, Kansas, cells and iron work, $4800.00; Champion Iron Fence Co,. Kenton, Ohi); cells and iron work $5273.38; Pauly Jail Co., St. Louis, Mo., cells and iron work, $5030.00; Hall's Safe and Lock Co., Cincinnati, Ohio, cells and iron work, -^6725.00, a difference of $3085 between the highest and the lowest bidder for the same job of work, (quite a margin. ) The Board then proceeded to the consideration of the bids for steel and iron work as made and filed by the dif- ferent competitors, giving each company an opportunity to exhibit materials used in the construction of their jail cells, also to show models illustrating plan of construction with locking devices, etc. All the afternoon was consumed in this work, whereupon the Board adjourned, to meet at 9 o'clock, a. m., April 11th. The board met pursuant to adjournment, all members being present, and proceeded with the consideration of bids for jail and jailor's resi- dence, listening to the arguments of the representatives of the different systems and testing materials, devoting much of the day to said work, and adjourned to April 12th at 9 o'clock, a. m. Met pursuant to adjournment, present the same as yesterday. The contract for the jail cells, structural iron work, steel and iron necessary to the completion of the jail, including four criminal cells on the first floor and two cells for females on second floor of jail was awarded to the VanDorn Iron Works, of Cleveland, Ohio, E. Jenkins, agent, to be built according to i3lans and specifications adopted by the Board of County Commissioners and now on file in the County Clerk's office as a part of the con- tract with said company for the sum of $3940, said work to be completed in all respects according to contract on 138 History of Republic County. or before the 15th day of October, 1889, and if equal to the requirements named in said contract and proved by rea- sonable test to be proof against cutting with saw, tile or other tools usually employed by jail breakers in escaping from jail, then the said jail and structural iron work is to be accepted by the board and paid for in full the aforesaid sum of $8940 — but if at any time prior to the complet'on of said jail by the Van Dorn Iron Works of Cleveland, Ohio, it shall be shown and proven that any prisoner has escaped from a jail of like construction and material which was built by the said Van Dorn Iron Works, by cutting, sawing or tiling out of said jail, then the Board of County Commissioners are by the terms of the contract, to pay for said cells and structural iron work, the sum of one dollar — said payment to be in full of all demand upon Re- public county or the said Board of County Commissioners for said material and work. Prom the above it appears that the board proceeded with extreme caution m making this important contract. The Board met again Ajjril 13th, all members being present and awarded the contract for building the jail and jailor's residence to Robert Lund and Charles Carson, of Belleville city for the sum of five thousand and fifty seven dollars, said building to be completed on or before the loth day of October, 1889. Hugh A. Scott was appointed to superintend the construction of said buildings at three dollars per day. Both of the above contracts were fully complied with and were accepted by the Board, Sept. 10th, 1889. The total cost, including extras was as follows: Van Dorn Iron Works for jail cells and struc- tural iron work 14153.75 Lund & Carson for building 6605.19 Total cost of jail 110758.94 COUNTY ASYLUM FOR THE POOR. The laws of Kansas make it lawful for the board of History of Republic County. 139 county commissioners in the several counties in the state, whenever they may deem it advisable, to purchase a tract of land in the name of their respective counties, and there- on to build, establish and organize an asylum for the poor. This was not deemed necessary nor advisable in Re- public county until the spring- of 1879 when the following described tract of land was purchased for such purpose, viz: The W^ of the SEi of section 4, and the N| of the NE I of section 9, town 3, range 3. This land was the homestead of John Engle, well remembered by many of the early settlers as a rather undesirable citizen, but whose loyalty was never called in question. After leaving the county Engle went south into Dixie, where he was shot and killed for too openly avowing his Union sentiments. This land was deeded to the county May 12th, 1879, the purchase price being s950. The contract for the erection of a suitable building to be used as an asylum was awarded to W. C. Shull on June 16th for the sum of $852, he being the lowest bidder. The commissioners at this time were L. C. Hanson, chairman and commissioner for Second dis trict; A. B. Bachelor, commissioner First district, and John F. Wells, commissioner Third district. The first superintendent of the county asylum was O. M. Wagner, he having having made the lowest bid, receiving $2.95 per week for the board, clothing and care of each inmate. This contract was made September 16th, 1679, and was for one year. O. A. A. Gardner was the second superintendent, his bond being approved October 5th, 1880, which position he held until March 1st, 188'4, when the contract was awarded to C. W. Wray for the sum of $2.69 per week for each and every inmate of the asylum, which position he held until the latter part of 1887, when he was succeeded by Simon Miller, who held the position until March 1st, 1892. Miller was succeeded by T. C. Reily, late sheriff of the county, who acted in this capacity until March 1st, 1900, receiving as compensation the use of the farm and $2.60 per week for each inmate until the last year when it 140 History of Republic Countv. was reduced to $2 per week. Reily was succeeded by P. P. Musser, who receives $2 per week for each inmate and exclusive use of the farm and sucli additional sum per week for the care of disabled and invalid inmates of the asylum as the board of county commissioners shall deem right and just. Mr. Musser is now in charge and is giv- ing good satisfaction. It is but simple justice to the state that all of the superintendents of this institution have been responsible, conscientious and humane men and that that unfortunate class of our fellow citizens who have been cared for there have uniformly received kind treat- ment and the best of care at their hands. An addition to the Asylum 22x26 feet was built in the fall of 1892, the contract being awarded to Al. Crispin, October 15th, the contract price being $590. Recapitulation. Cost of the land $!)50 00 Cost of the first building 852 00 Cost of first addition 590 00 Total $2392 00 This farm is now worth ^4,500. JOHN F. WELLS. John F.Wells, during his long term of service as county commissioner, made a record with which, as a whole, his friends may well be satisfied. In 1878 J. H. McCall resigned as county commissioner, behaving been elected county su- perintendent, and Mr. Wells was appointed to succeed him. Was elected in 1879 to serve one year, re-elected in 1880, again in 1883, and again in 1886, making eleven years of continuous service in this important office. He w'as fearless in the advocacy of measures which he believed to be for the general good of the county, and by his energj^ and perseverence, succeeded in securing improvements which otherwise, it is quite probable would have failed. The period of his commissionership was the most import- ant in the history of the county in the matter of bridges, History of Republic County. 141 public buildings and other improvements, and although some of the measures which he championed were not re- garded with general favor at the time they were made public, they afterwards received the general endorsement of the people, particularly the part he took in the con- struction of the court house and jail. After a lapse of ten years since his retirement from office the almost unani- mous verdict is that he was an unusually efficient and faithful officer. CHAPTER XV. TOWNSHIPS. The assessed valuation of the railroad property in the following sketches of townships, is for miles of track only and does not include telegraphic and Pullman car assess- ments, nor the mileage in cities. For total valuation of railroad property by townships and cities, see chapter on Census and Assessment of Real, Personal and Railroad Property for 1901. ALBION TOWNSHIP. As shown by the map, Albion occupies the northeast corner of the county, and is known as town 1 south, range 1 west, and is a most excellent township of land for farm- ing purposes, there being none better in Republic or any other county in Kansas. It is watered by Cherry Creek which flows southeast through the southern portion of the township. The first settlement was made on the S W i of section 26, by Reuben Phillips, in October 1869. The first school in the township was taught by Ed. Waterbury, in what is now Dist No. 13, in the spring of 1871. This was a three-months subscription school, the school room being a dugout, formerly occupied by Dr. Waterbury as a residence, situated on the NW \ of section 28, the school 142 History of Republic County. furniture and fixtures being about the same as others described elsewhere in this history. The first gospel sermon was preached by Elder Marks, a pioneer preacher from Jefferson county, Nebraska, and whose eccentricities are still well remem- bered by the early settlers. The first birth in the town- ship was George, son of Reuben Phillij^ts, before mentioned, in the summer of 1870. The second was Oliver B. Reeder, October 11th, 1870. The first marriage was Meredith Morris and Lydia A. Treon, September 2d, 1872. The first death was lola M., daughter of E. C. Crammer, Jan- uary 19th, 1872. The famous Chicago House, the first frame dwelling in the township, was erected on the SW iol section 14, by John Lester, a Chicago man, in the spring of 1870, E. W. Hall, being the architect and builder. This house was 16x24 feet, 14-foot studding and could be seen from any direction for miles around, and is still standing as one of the early landmarks in that part of the county. This man, Lester, as before stated, was from Chicago, and never seemed so happy as when airing his reminiscences of that windy city. He could not be engaged in a five min- ute's conversation on any subject without alluding to that celebrated city and the wonderful things he had seen there. Hence he came to be known as the "Chicago Man, '" only a very small number of the early settlers knowing him by any other name, and so when he come to build so pretentious a dweUing, it was but natural that it should be known as the Chicago House, and it is still so called by the citizens of Albion and adjoining townships. Albion township was organized July 5th, 1870, and the following otticers appointed: James H. Bradd, trus- tee; Francis McAferty, clerk; Jacob Smith, treasurer. The Chicago, Rock: Island & Pacific Railroad enters this township on section 12, runs southwest, leaving it on section 30, with 6.76 miles of track, valued in 1901 at $48,898. Hisloiy of Republic County. 143 ROSE CREEK TOWNSHIP. This township lies immediately west of Albion, is well timbered and well watered and perhaps possesses as many natural advantages as any township in the county. Rose Creek, a well timbered stream, flows northeast through the greater portion of the township, the bottom lands being very fertile. Magnesia limestone of excellent quality is found in great abundance on twelve different sections of land. The tirst settlement in this township was made by Thomas Regester and his two sons, Job and Robert, and one daughter. May loth, 1866. The first prairie -was broken by them on the NW i of section twenty-one (21) soon after making settlement, consisting of about five acres of bottom land which for nearly three years was the only land in cultivation in the township and which has been cropped continuously for thirty-four years and still produces well. Thomas Regester died in September, 1870, being the tirst death in the township. The first school was taught ia the winter of 70 and 71 by MyraDooiey in a log building with dirt roof, which had been previously occupied as the residence of William Dooleyand family. This was prior to the organization of the school district and was a subscription school. The first sermon was preached at the pioneer resi- dence of Prank Powell by Rev. R. D. Preston, a Freewill Baptist minister from Nebraska. This house was built of logs, and like nearly all of the early residences, had a dirt fioor and dirt roof, and was occupied by Mr. Powell and family for several years. Rev. Preston preached a very impressive sermon on this occasion, and during the most interesting part of his discourse a hen with brood of chick ens came leisurely out from one corner of the room, pass- ing immediately in front of the speaker, attracting his at- tention, as well as the attention of the entire audience. 144 History of Republic County. After carefully surveying this new addition to his audi- ence, the speaker in a meditative sort of way, resumed his discourse by saying, "Brethren and sisters, there's a better time coming." Probably alluding to the time when those chickens would be large enough for table use, as I have heard it frequently remarked that preachers gener- ally were quite partial to that kind of a diet. The first church in the township was built by the Methodists at Ida in the summer of 1885, the first pastor being Rev. J. W. H, Williams. The first child born in the township was Violet M. Rickard, adopted daughter of J. B. and Nellie Rickard, June 28th, 1869. The first marriage in the township was J. W. Ball and Martha Dooley February 14th, 1871. The township was organized June 5th, 1870, and the following ofiicers ap- pointed: Prank T. Powell, trustee; Edwin E. Monroe, clerk; L. R. Dobyns, treasurer. William Dooley built a substantial frame residence on the NWi of section twenty -one (21) in the fall of 1870. This house was for several years the best one in the township and at the time it was built was probably the best farm residence in the county. The Burlington & Missouri River Railroad traverses the northern part of the town- ship, there being 5 31-100 miles of track valued at -S6,259 per mile and the Chicago R. I. & Pacific 3.34 miles as- sessed in 1901 at $23,130. There are no stations in the township, but there are two of easy access, Hubbell on the B. & M., just across the north line in Nebraska, and Mun- den on the Chicago R. I, & Pacific, just across the south line of the township. Among the first settlers, who are still residents of the township, are J. B. Rickard, now the oldest continuous resident, Robert Kyle, Wm. M. Moore, A. Steenblock,Wm. Bobenhouse, Wm. Lugenbeel, G. W. Dixon, Leander Wells and Mirza Skinner, all of whom claim more than thirty years residence. History of Republic County. 145 LIBERTY TOWNSHIP. Liberty, next west of Rose Creek, is well watered and has considerable timber. The first settlement was made by J. L. Neville on the SWi of section 13 in the spring of 1869, who built a small log house with dirt roof, but he did not do the first breaking. The first breaking was done by a man named Preston, about an acre in the bend of the creek on the SE:^ of section 14, now known as the Rose Creek stock farm, in the spring of 1869. Preston made no permanent settlement, although it was his intention to do so, he having homesteaded the land. Soon after doing the breaking he went west on a buffalo hunt and never returned, having been killed by the Indians. Mrs. Preston planted a flower garden on the acre above referred to and among other seeds sown were some morning glories, which have bloomed there ever year since, having survived drouth, grasshoppers and the culti- vation of the land. Mrs. Preston sold her right for $75 to John Riley, who came on during the latter part of the year 1869, he being the second settler in the township. This same i section, with eighty acres additional, has recently been sold for 810,000. In the spring of 1869 Mr. Neville, thinking to get a start in poultry, made a trip to N'^uras- ka for the purpose of buying a few fowls, but could find none until within a few miles of Pairbury, where he pur- chased a rooster for $1 and a pullet for $1.25, returning late at night considerably elated with his success. Next morning, hearing a considerable commotion in the poultry yard, went out to find that a wily coyote had captured, killed and carried away the pullet and was on his return for the rooster which, owing to the presence of Mr. Ne- ville, he failed to capture. During the summer Mr. Ne- ville bought another pullet in Washington county, paying %1.25, which seems to have been the established price. With this one he had better luck, as she laid during the summer and fall one Qgg. Mr. Neville thought that at this rate it would be some 146 History of Republic County. time before he would be overstocked with chickens. The next settlers were the colony from New York, all being English and Scotch and all mechanics, princij^ally stonecutters. The colony consisted of J. J. Wilkes, An- drew Glenn, Thomas Benson, Sydney Pearce, Edward Thornton, Daniel McKenzie, Burns and Munro. This col- ony left New York City Dec. ^Ist, lis()9, and arrived at Belleville the first week in January, 1870. Selected eight quarter sections of land along Rose Creek, combin- ing timber and water. The claims selected were numbered from one to eight and the corresponding numbers placed in a hat, each man drawing a number, which decided the claim he should homestead. This entire party was con- veyed to the land office at Junction City by T. C. Reily, since sheriff of the county, where after declaring their in- tentions to become citizens of the United States, their homestead entries w-ere made. The four first named are still prosperous and respected citizens of the county, all owning the land first selected; the last four never returned to occupy their claims. The township organization, in which E. D. Bugby, then a citizen of the township, took an active and promi- nent part, was effected July 7th, 1871, and was christened Liberty by Mrs. Geo. A. Hovey. The officers appointed at that time were: Geo. A. Hovey, trustee; J. L. Neville, clerk; John Riley, treasurer. The first child born in the township was Flora Neville February 2d, 1870. The first male child born was Pearl Brown, May 20th, 1H71. These two after arriving at a suitable age, became man and wife, a coincidence without a parallel in the county and probably not in the state. The first marriage was Menzo Churchill and Sarah V. Clark, March 3d, 1870. The first death in Liberty township was Arthur Hart, an infant, son of Frank and Katie Hart, who died in October, 1872. This township has no railroad within its limits, there being only one other — White Rock — similarly situated, History of Republic County. 147 yet there is not a farm house in the township at a greater distance than seven miles from a railroad station. WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP. A. B. Turner made the first improvements in this township by breaking a few acres of prairie and com- mencing a sod house on the SW i section one the last of April, 1871. These improvements he abandoned on being notified from the land office that section one was within the limits of the St. Joe & Denver railroad land grant. Turner then horaesteaded the SE^of section 13, and commenced improving it about the 12th of May. Wm. R. Toll was the second person to make imjirovements, commencing to break prairie as early as May 10th. James Wilkins, Steve Madison and John Stevens all took homesteads about the same time and made settlement the same spring. W. A. Reeves took a homestead on the NE^, section 11, May 13, and commenced improving it the following week. John Rule, an Englishman, settled on section 2 soon after, he and members of his family homesteading the whole sec- tion. Other early settlers were N. W. Hayes and his son, William, and William Stewart, a son-in-law, J. W, Smith, Isaac B. Gaylord, Noah Miles and Ritchie Clark, all mak- ing settlement in the spring of 1871. Of all the above named, only three — Reeves, Smith and Clark — are living on the land first taken, the others having died or moved away. W. A. Reeves was the first justice of the peace in the township, being appointed by Governor Harvey in 1872. The tirst marriage was Sam. Wilkins and Mary E. Turner. This marriage was solemnized by W. A. Reeves, Esquire, at his residence in Washington township, Febru- ary 12, 1873. The first gospel sermon was preached by Rev. J. L. Millard, a United Brethren preacher, then liv- ing in Liberty township, soon followed by Elder Marks and R. P. West, all pioneers in religious work. The township was organized July 2d, 1872, and the following officers appointed: A. Watenpaugh, trustee; 148 History of Republic County. Spaulding Eddy, clerk; Rev. Milner, treasurer; A. B. Tur- ner, constable. At the first election for township officers held in April, 1873, the following were chosen: Noah Miles, trustee; C. Foskett, clerk; A. B. Turner, treasurer; W. A. Reeves and H. C. Swartz, justices of the peace; A. B. Gilmoreand J. D. Trimmer, constables. This township has the largest area of land in cultiva- tion of any in the county. The railroad mileage, B. & M., is 2.42 miles, assessed in 1901 at $16,393. BIG BEND TOWNSHIP. This township lies in the northwest corner of the county, is watered by the Republican river, which tiows through it from the northwest to the southeast. The first settlement was made by Daniel Davis, who broke the first prairie and built the first cabin in the township in the summer of 1866, on the SE^of section 34. This township was the theater of many thrilling and exciting incidents of repeated outbreaks and attacks by Indians, hardships endured and heroic fortitude shown by the pioneer set- tlers, much of which is narrated in the chapter on Indian depredations. No part of the county suffered so severely and so long from Indian incursions as the townships of Big Bend and White Rock. Often in the early history of these two townships, while the pioneer settlers were rest- ing in fancied security and safety, the treacherous savage, with deadly intent, was lurking near. This is but the same old story of aU new countries infested with Indians. The first school district embraced all that part of the township lying west of the Republican river and the first school was taught by J. D. Leigh, a highly interesting ac- count of which will be found in the chapter on schools. The first child born in the township was Myrtle, daughter of Oscar and Matilda Low, January, 1871. The first male child born was Tudor Charles, February 6th, 1871, and who is now living on the farm where born. The first goods sold in the township was by John Rus- Historv of Republic County. 149 sel, at the mouth of White Rock Creek, at which point Dan. Davis sought to start a town, and where James and John A. Clark had located a steam saw and shingle mill which they brought with them from Ohio, and had it in operation early in the fall of 1870, doing a good business until the following April, when they sold out to old Mr. Whitney, of Haddam, who soon after moved the mill to that place. This was the second saw mill in the county, the one owned by the Scandinavian Colony being the first. James R. Clark homesteaded the SEi and J. A., the NEi of section 10, in Freedom township. John A. sold out in 1874, and pre-empted a quarter in section o, in the same towQship. James R. afterwards bought theCapt. School- ey farm in Grant township, where he lived for several years. The grocery store above referred to was built of Cottonwood manufactured by the saw mill aforesaid. The stock in trade at this grocery was principally nails, to- bacco and whiskey. The institution was short lived, re- maining only a few months. The next store was kept by Jack Galbraith on the claim of W. R. Charles, in the win- ter of 1870 and 1871. Galbraith was in business there for a few months onlj^ when he removed to White Rock. The next business established was a general store by William Walton, in the northwest corner of the township, close to the state line in the summer of 1871. The first postoffice was established in 1871. was named Gomeria, and W. R. Charles appointed postmaster. The township was organized July 19th, 1872, at which time the following officers were appointed: A. B. Young, trustee; S. G. Stover, treasurer; H. C. Waffle, clerk; and the first election ordered to be held at the residence of Andrew Low. This township has three lines of railroad: Missouri Pacific 7.62 miles Assessed in 1901 $32347 Rep. Valley, ( B. & M. ). . . .4.98 miles Assessed in 1901 33735 Pacific Ry in Nebraska 1.00 mile Assessed in 1901 4245 Total - - 13.60 miles - - - - $70327 150 History of Republic County. This township having the greatest mileage of any township in the county, but not the largest assessed rail- road valuation. As shown in another chapter, this town- ship has the most taxible property of any in the county. WHITE ROCK TOWNSHIP Is SO called from a creek of the same name which Hows across a portion of the western and northern por- tions of the township. This part of Republic county is one of great historic interest, and was on account of its richness and beauty, a region of attraction, years before the most venturesome pioneer sought to establish a home here. And long before prudence warranted the under- taking, a few more daring than others, endeavored to build a home in this beautiful valley, some with the loss of their lives, and all living in constant dread of Indian incursions. The first settlement in the township was made by Philip Keyser, on the NW^of section 4, in the spring of 1862, who made the first improvements and broke the first sod in this part of the county. His settlement was not permanent, as he remained here only a little more than two months. Settlers came and went and it was not until 1866 that a few determined men — ^among whom I mention Thomas Lovewell as a leading spirit — came to stay, but all subject to an annual scare from an Indian in- vasion. The first school was taught in the summer of 1871, by Mrs. Emanuel Maudlin, in what was known as Crown's blacksmith shop, a large and roomy building, the upper story being used for general public purposes. This was a subscription school. The first gospel sermon was preached by R. P. West in 1870. The first church build- ing was erected in 1873, not purely denominational, but was known as a union church, its construction being con- tributed to by parties of all religious beliefs — and sinners as well — but later passed under the control of the Bap- History of Republic County. 151 tists. In the fall of 1871, a commodious and comfortable school house was built of rock, Thomas Lovewell being the architect and builder, and a term of school taught therein the following summer by Miss Ida Kirkpatrick. White Rock post office was established in May, 1871, and Chester L. Babcock appointed postmaster. The boundaries of the township were defined August 20th, 1870, and embraced a territory of twelve miles north and south, by six miles east and west, the voting place to be at the house of Joseph Kohl, but no township officers were appointed at that time. The first officers elected were: W. H. Leigh, trustee; A. B. Young, clerk; S. R. Morlan, treasurer; A. B. Warner, justice of the peace; Andrew Low, justice of the peace; W. Malory, constable; D. Rice, constable. The township has no railroad. UNION TOWNSHIP. The first settlement in this township was made by S. Sherdahl, April 10th, 1870. Mr. Sherdahl had his only team of horses stolen by the Indians May 18th, 1870. The township was organized July 7th, 1871 and the following officers appointed: E. K. Mahan, Trustee; David Rockhold, Clerk; J. R. Bowersox, Treasurer; J. M. Rockhold, Justice of the Peace; S. A. McKay, Constable. The first sermon was preached by Rev. Albert Odell, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister, about May 1st, 1871, in a board shanty located on the SW|of section 28 the same being occupied by J. R. Bowersox as a residence. School district No. 39, one of the leading school districts of the county, was orgaaized May 23d, 1871, and the first school meeting was held on the third day of June follow- ing. The first school district officers were Andrew Engle, S. A. McKay and John R. Bowersox. The first three months of school in this district was taught by Miss Zu- retta Rockhold in a dugout on the SE corner of section 22 152 History of Republic Coimtv. the site of the present school building. The names of the pupils who held down slab seats that term were: Prank Cooper, Calvin Gant, Benjamin Gant, Charles Gant, David Hall, J. Householder, Daniel Householder, Geo. Page, Van Rockhold, Fred Rockhold, Arthur Rockhold, Eddy Sims, Rose B. Woods, Racena Cooper, Albina Gant, Caroline Gant, Mary G. Householder, Clem Landreth, Esther Page, Lefa Robbins, Loretta Rockhold, Orpha Rockhold, Ann-i F. Small, Rachel Small, Irene Woods, Sarah E. Woods. This has been a graded school, employing two teachers since 1S91. This township embraces a larger area than any other in the county, the Republican river forming its western boundary. Has a railroad mileage of 6.12 miles assessed in 1901 at $26629. FREEDOM TOWNSHIP. This township lies in the center of the county, east and west, is well settled and well improved, the third ward of the city of Belleville being located within its boun- daries. The first settlement was made on the southwest quar- ter of section 35 in the spring of 1870, by Dr. A. B. Tut- ton, who built a small log dwelling where the residence of J. P. Talmadge now stands. This was thefirst building of any kind erected in the township. The first prairie broken was on the claim taken by Dr. J. C. Griffith, the SE \, section 35, in the spring of 1870. This breaking was done by T. C. Reily, afterwards sheriff of the county. Dr. Griffith built a comfortable stone house in the summer of 1870, recently occupied by T. M. Childs as a residence. Dr. Columbus Taylor, the same summer built a good frame house on his homestead, the NW \ of section 29. Among others who made settlement in this township in 1870, I name James Taylor, J. D. and S. L. Black, George and Ezra Couchman, J. F. Walker, Amos Moree, Robert M. Edgecomb, John Bodine, W. P. Weeks, D. M. Howard, Albert Myers. William H. Boyes, Ezra Powell, David Van Liesidence and Farm Buildings of H. J. Slutts, NEJ Sec. 15, Freedom Township. Residence of F. M. Johnson, Freedom Township. History of Republic County. 153 Aken, Aaron Bond, R. P. Cheney, P. L. Peck, Fredrick Collins, J. J. and P. F. Scofield. The tirst school was taught by Mrs. Albert Odell, at her residence on the southwest quarter, section 29, in the winter of 1S70-1. This was prior to the district organiza- tion and was a three-months subscription school. The school house was a combination of a dugout and sod, sim- ilar to others described elsewhere in this history. The tirst school taught after the organization of District No. 17, the first one to organize in the township, was by the Rev. Albert Odell. The township was organized July 7th, 1871, and was christened "Freedom" by William Hughes. The following were the officers appointed: Adam Dixon, trustee: Rob- ert M. Edgecomb, clerk; Philander L. Peck, treasurer; A. O. Kindy, constable. The first election was ordered to be held at the residence of R. M. Edgecomb, on theNE^, section 21. The first child born in the township was Ira W. Walker, December 9th, 1870. The first marriage was E. M. Bailey and M. E. Personett, February 3d, 1871. The first death was Maria E. Howard, wife of D. M. How- ard, who died January 18th, 1872. The township has a railroad mileage of 2.02 miles, assessed in 1901 at i&15483. FAIRVIEW TOWNSHIP Lies next east of Freedom and is a most excellent township of land for agricultural purposes, nearly its en- tire area being susceptible of cultivation. The first settle- ment was made in J 870 and the whole township was practi- cally settled up that and the following year. It was named by Joseph Northrup, one of the first settlers and the first township trustee being appointed January 4th, 1871, at which time the township was organized. The other officers appointed were Filer S. See, Clerk; Joseph B. See, Treas. The first election was held at the residence of Joseph Northrup. The population of the township is about equall.y di- 104 History of Republic County. vided between native and foreign born, the foreigners be- ing principally Bohemians. The first school in the town- shii3 was taught by Mary Dixon, in a dugout, on ihe SE \ of section 30, the farm now being owned by J. N. Snyder. This was a three months' subscription school taught in the spring of 1872, which was prior to the organization of any school district in the township. The following is a partial list of the pupils who attended this school, none of whom were advanced beyond the first reader during the term: William Ryan, Rosetta Ryan, Lincoln Hill, Mary Hill, Nancy Guthrie, Mary Guthrie, WiUiam Guthrie, John Hawkins. Both branches of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad traverse this township with a total mileage of 10.22 miles, assessed in 1901 at $72,428. FARMINGTON TOWNSHIP. Z. P. Rowe and Jacob Hull were the first settlers in Parmington Township, making settlement on section 35, in May, 1866. Wm. McBride and Calvin Mapes came in the spring of 1867, and John Harris, Sr., and Thomas Maxtield came in the fall of the same year. George Hard- enberg and William Herman came in May, 1868. Jacob Hull homesteaded the land where H.H. Hoffman now lives. This was the first township organized in Republic county as shown elsewhere. The second postoffice in the county was established in this township in the spring of 1868, and Z. P. Rowe, a pioneer settler and later County Commis- cioner, was the postmaster. A school was started in the summer of 1868, taught by Miss McBride, in what is now school Dist. No. 4. The territory embraced in this dis- trict was 9x15 miles and had a school population of 18 at the time the school was taught. The first marriage was John H. Oliver and Rhoda Spillman, June 3d, 1869. They were married on the open prairie by Rev. R. P. West in the presence of witnesses. Ifesiclence ot Hugh Colville, Fairvievv Township. History of Republic County. 155 The B. & M. Kuili'oad had a mileage of 8.24 miles in the township with an assessed valuation in 1901 of $14556. RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. John Harris and James Swan were the first to make settlement in this township, Harris taking a homestead on the N V of NW| of section 4, and Swan pre-empting the NE^of the same section on the 5th day of March, 1866. Edwin Enoch came in April, Z. P. Rowe and Jacob Hull in the summer of the same year. Henry Willoughby, Wm. Oliver and Samuel Elder came in the fall, setthng in the south part of the township. This township is well watered, has considerable timber, and an abundance of building stone. Ida Hai-ris, now Mrs. George Sissel, was the tirst child born in Richland township, July 12th, 1867. The lirst marriage was West Union Spillman and Amelia John- son in May, 1866. The township was organized July 7th, 1871, and the following officers were appointed: J. S. Bates, Trustee; Jacob Baird, Treasurer. The first election was ordered held at the house of Mr. Carpenter. The township has railroad mileage as follows: Chicago II. I. and Pacific 5.60 miles, assessed 1901. . . . * 40495 B. .'c M 3.92 " " " .... 16993 Total 9.. 52 Total * 57488 JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP. This township is one of great historic interest as it was here that the temporary county seat was located; the first law-suit in the county was tried, the first school taught, the first political convention held and the first gos- pel sermon preached, all of which are mentioned in pre- ceding chapters. The first settlement made was by J. E. VanNatta and WiUiam Harshberger, May 10th 1862, David Corey coming soon after, and still later, R. P. West, Henry Mead, J. H. Frint, Noah Kunkel, John Robbins, Hiram Jackson and Geo. Wilcox, all taking claims along the creeks. It was not until 1870 and 1871 that settlements 156 History of Republic County. on the high prairie were made and at the close of the year 71 all the desirable land in the township had been taken. This township is centrally located and possesses many natural advantages. It was organized Peburary 24th, 1872, and T. J. Baird appointed trustee, the tirst election to be held at the res- idence of Andrew Pfafif, a central location, and where the elections were held for many years. The township has two lines of railroad, namely: B. & M 4.34 miles, assessed 1901 $18814 Chicago, K. I. ife Pacific ...2.53 " " 17520 Total ().87 Total valuation $36334 BELLEVILLE TOWNSHIP. So called from Belleville, the county seat. The tirst settlers were J. C. Reily and T. C. and W. H. H. Reily, his sons, in 1866. They, like all the other early settlers, took land along a creek and named it Reily Creek, no one believing at that time that the high prairie land would ever be settled upon, but would always remain grazing land. J. C. Reily was the first assessor in Republic county being elected in the spring of 1868, which was prior to the organization of the county, and while it was attached to Washington county as a voting precinct. The whole number of votes cast was thirteen, of which Mr. Reily received eight, and Captain I. M. Schooley five, although it is probable that there were at the time, fifty or sixty voters in the county. Mr. Reily is remembered by the early settlers and by all who knew him intimately, as a man of mature judgment and conscientious and ui)right, both in public and private life. He died at his home in Belleville. September 7th, 1895, at the advanced age of eighty-seven years, five months and twenty days. T. C. Reily, for nearly a third of a century a citizen of Republic county, now lives in Woodward county, Oklahoma. W. H. H. Reily is still living on Reily Creek, where he first settled. History of Republic County. 157 The following;- sketch has never before appeared in print: A history of Republic county would be incom- plete that did not refer to the trials, difficulties and dan- gers attendant on the settling of the country. A sad event which occurred at Scotch Plains in 1H70, shows some of the trials to which pioneers were subjected. Jack Mc- Kenzie and wife, who were Scotch, came from New York City, with the Excelsior colony, homes teading and set- tling on the SE \, section 18, town 3, range 3, now owned and occupied by Thomas S. Doctor. After building a sod house and planting a little crop. Jack proceeded to dig a well, and being lone handed and an old sailor, he made him a rope ladder by which he went down, filled his bucket of dirt, ascended* by his ladder, and wound up by his windlass the bucket of dirt. (His wife, a young nimble woman, had learned to go down and up this lad- der by starting at the top when the excavation was quite shallow.) Jack had worked along in this way, some- times getting a hand from a neighbor to help him and again working alone until he had gone down about thirty - six feet, and at one time, at least, being compelled to quit work, on account of bad air in the hole. On the sec- ond of August, he went down to work as usual, his wife going around the place attending her chickens: heard some commotion in the well, running to it and looking down, she saw there was something the matter with Jack. Hastily calling a young man (James Kinnard), who was boarding with them, to run across the creek for help, she descended to Jack's assistance. When the help arrived at the well breathless from running and excitement, she was seen sitting supporting Jack's head on her knee. One of the party, James Lowden, immediately attempted to descend. On reaching nearly half way down, he looked up, saying, "Boys, I can't go; it chokes me I" He was ordered up. Then commenced a struggle for life: it was all he could do to get back far enough for the others to haul him out, when he lay on the bank vom- 158 Hisfoiy of Republic County. itinj^ for a couple of hours, before lie recovered. Word was sent around the neighborhood of the calamity, when a crowd gathered. After ventilating, by means of a fun- nel made of sheets, an old miner, the late Joseph Mc- Gowen, descended and sent the bodies to the surface. They were buried next day in the cemetery on the Preacher West place, R. P. West preaching the funeral sermon. The township was organized September 4th, 1871, and S. W. Skeels was appointed township clerk. No other officers were appointed. The election for township officers was held in Belleville, April 2d, 1872, when the following were elected: J. C. Reily, trustee: T. C. Reily, clerk: S. K. Waterson, treasurer: Joseph Boothe, justice of the peace; John Engle, constable: D. C. Bowersox, c-onstable. The township has two lines of railroad — the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific, 3.32 miles, assessed in 1901 at $24,651; the Junction City & Fort Kearney (U. P.) 4.90 miles, assessed in 1901 at $25,146. Total mileage, 8.22 miles; total assessed valuation, $49,797. SCANDIA TOWNSHIP. The first settlement was made by the Scandinavian colony in the fall of 1868. This township lies on both sides of the Republican river, which is spanned by a sub- stantial iron bridge at Scandia city, a place of consider- able commercial importance and the second city in size in the county. Among the early settlers who took homesteads on the high prairie in Scandia township, I mention Thomas and William West and Fred O'Ccmnell, William West tak- ing the NE i, section 24; Thomas, the NW i and O'Con- nell the SW i: David C. Gamble taking the SE i in the spring of 1^71. Soon after taking his claim, O'Connell went to Kit Carson, Colorado, to work on the Union Pa- cific railroad and never returned, presumably scalped by Residence of Hx-State Senator Geo. D. IJowling-, Scandia, Township. ilesidence of Thure Wohlfart, Scandia Township. History of Republic County. 159 the Indians, as it was well l^nown that several railroad workmen met that fate about that time. In the sprinji: of 1H72, John West, a brother of William and Thomas, came and took the 0'C(mnell claim, which he held until his death, which took place about Christmas, 1891, his land now bein^- owned by D. H. Riddlebarger. Thomas still lives on the land first taken, and William lives on the SE i, section 11-5, Scandia township. The township was orj^-anized January 2d, 1871, and comprised two congressional townships, namely, town 8, range 4; and town 8, range 5; but no township officers were appointed. At the first election, April 4th, 1871, the following were elected: Jacob Gui, trustee: Wm. N. Knoll, clerk: A. Asbjournson, treasurer: George Lembke, justice of the peace: William West, justice of the peace: Joseph McGowan, constable; Lars C. Hanson, constable. The tow^nshiphas two lines of railroad — the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific, 6.55 miles, assessed in 1901 at $50,064: and the Missouri Pacific, 5.10 miles, assessed in 1901 at $-21, 650. Total mileage, 11.65: total assessed val- ue, $71,714. COUKTLAND TOWNSHIP. The first settlement in the township was made by C. A. Holm Strom in the spring of 1869, who broke the first prairie and built the first house. The first school house was built by subscription, in district No. 42, in the summei- of 1871. The township was organized Feburary 24th, 1872, mainly through the efforts of John H. Crane, an early set- tler of the township, who suggested the name "Soldier" from the fact that a large number of the first settlers had served in the army. The name was afterward, without apparent good cause, changed to Courtland. J. Peterson was appointed first trustee. The first election was ordered held at the residence of John T. Sothers, but was really held in his stable. At the first election, held on the second Tuesday of April, 1872, the following officers were elected: 160 History of Republic County. C. C. Parkinson, Trustee; John H. Crane, Clerk; John T. Sothers, Treasurer; John M. Lawrence, Justice of the Peace; W. Stafford, Justice of the Peace; Charles Wynn, Constable; John T. Henry. Constable. The first birth in the township was a daughter of Otto Olsen and wife in the fall of 1871. The township has two lines of railroad, as shown by the map with a total mileage of 11.04 miles, assessed in 1901 at l?66312. BEAVER TOWNSHIP. E. B. Pedersen and T. A. Nelson settled on Beaver creek in 1869, being the first settlers in the township. It was called Buffalo precinct and was attached to Norway township until October 6th, 1873, when the township was organized and named Beaver from the creek which flows through it. R. M. Williams was appointed first trustee and the first election was ordered held as near the center of the township as practicable. This was the last town- ship organized in the county. The first birth in the town- ship was Joseph Munson, December 9th, 1872. The first marriage was Andrew Sederlin and Mary Knutson, in June, 1872. The first death was Gustav Werner, who died August 10th, 1872. This township had a railroad mileage of 6.14 miles, assessed in 1901 at $29,500. The population is about equally divided between native and foreign born, the foreigners being mostly Swedes and Norwegians. NORWAY TOWNSHIP. The first settlement in this township was made by Thomas Green, who built a log house and dug a well on the SE corner of the SE \ of section 17, in the fall of 1868. He broke a little prairie and planted a little sod corn in the spring of 1869, which the soldiers and Indians harvested. He left early in the summer of '69 on account of Indian troubles and never returned. His claim was contested by Joseph Merica,a man of heavy avoirdupois, the heaviest in the county at that time, tipping the beam at a little over 400 pounds. Merica occupied this claim for several years Residence of August Johnson, Beaver Township. Residence of S. A. Hag'gman, Beavei' Township. Residence of Fred Engwall, Beaver Township. History of Republic County. 161 and during his residence here, had a good team of horses stolen from him by the Indians. He moved to Jamestown, Cloud county, where he died several years ago. Mrs. Anna Pherson is the oldest continuous resident of the township, making settlement in the latter part of July, 1869. R. Rimol, at present county commissioner, came Aug. 15th of the same year, and is still a resident of the township. The first school was taught by Mary But- ton in a log cabin on the SW \ of section 35 in the spring of 1871. The second school was taught in the fall of the same year by Julia McCathron, daughter of J. G. McCathron, a pioneer settler in Peter Hammer's dugout, on the SE \ of section 11. Both of these were three months subscrip- tion schools and were taught prior to the organization of any school district in the township. The enrollment was about ten pupils in each school and very moderate wages were paid. The first marriage was Reuben Everhart and Jerusha McCathron, May 30th, 1871, The first child born was Nels Rimol, October 13th, 1870. The township was organized April 3d, 1871, at which time the following officers were appointed: John Hull, trustee; G. B. Burk, clerk; Noble Rogers, treasurer; Si vert Lehm, road overseer. The township has a railroad mileage as follows: Missouri Pacific, 6.01 miles, assessed in 1901 at $26,382; Santa Pe, 1.12 miles; assessed in 1901 at $5,040. Total mileage, 7.13 miles; total value , $31,432. I gladly give space to the following highly interest- ing sketch of Norway township, from the pen of Mr. E. Stanton, a pioneer settler, my only misgiving being that, perhaps, my readers may come to the conclusion that it would have been better had Mr. Stanton written the en- tire book: "Of incidents that transpired in the territory of Nor- way before the homestead settlement, but little is known. 162 History of Republic County. It is said that there were some Mormon emigrants up the Republican river on their way to Salt Lake in 1849. In about 1H52 the government laid out, and it is said, bridged the creeks on a wagon road from Fort Riley to Fort Kearney. I doubt the bridging. I remember in the spring of 1873, on returning from Scandia, on crossing Mud Creek, some three miles south of Scandia, my trusty oxen Buck and Bright, broke the chain and left the writer sitting in the wagon in the middle of the creek, just as the shades of night and a dismal rain was falling fast; if there was a bridge either up or down the creek, the writer did not observe it from where he sat. In 1806 Captain Pike no doubt passed through Nor- way township, but we are not claiming that he made any treaties with the Pawnees nor pulled down any Spanish fags, nor will we do so without evidence that such is the case. Our friends in different localities up and down the river, do not seem to be particular; it is all right however, and I am glad there is a disposition in the county to let no good thing get away for the want of a claimant, for the story is a very pretty and true one — as far as Captain Pike's part of it goes. As to who was the first settler, opinions differ, nor does it matter; they were "roving blades," taking choice claims with the intention to sell out at the first chance and move on and repeat the operation, making a living by hunting and trapping for the hide of the buffalo and beaver. The first permanent settler was Mr. Rasmus Rimol, now a county commissioner, he taking pos- session of the homestead on which he now resides, in February, 1869. He was soon followed by the rest of the Norwegian colony; the township took its name from the excellent people at the instance of J. G. McCathron, who was the first postmaster and first justice of the peace. The land in the valley and tributary creeks, was mostly taken during 1869-70. The prairie east of the val- ley was settled mostly in 1871, by a colony from eastern History of Republic County. 163 Indiana, an intelli^-ent, law-abidin*^- community and a credit to the locality from whence they came. The prairie land west of the river was mainly taken in 1H72,: there was no colony about it, about every state and every coun- try of Europe being represented at one time or another. The people seemed to lack the stability of colonists named before, some claims having changed hands ten or twelve times, but five of the original homesteaders now remaining. Of Indian trouble there was but little, the robbing of Mr. Olof Pehrson of a team of horses, being all that I ever heard of. Mr. Pehrson was breaking prairie, he took his gun out with him, but had laid it down at the end of the furrow, an Indian, who no doubt had been watching him, leaped from out of the grass and weeds and shot at Mr. Pehrson, who at once ran toward the end of the field to where his gun was, the Indian meanwhile making off with the horses. There may be those inclined to criticise the action of Mr. Pehrson in laying his gun aside; to such I say, next summer when the thermometer marks about 105 in the shade, attempt to navigate a breaking plow among the roots and sods, flies being bad, and carry a gun in such a position as to use it should an Indian appear, mean- while keeping a lookout for the plow, I think you would soon come to look upon the gun as a glittering superfluity and leave it by the coat and water jug, as Mr. Pehrson did. The first settlers, as a rule, were poor people and some of us were very poor, our dwellings and outbuild- ings were miserable makeshifts of poverty, what little money we had was soon gone, our bread was of corn, our fruit was from the pumpkin vine, our rags fluttered in the breeze as if to signal to the Hosts of Heaven our destitu- tion, and our dugouts became the abode of myriads of fl-ees, which drove the honest settler to distraction by day and by night. On Sunday, April 13th, 1873, began "The Great Storm,"' which lasted for three days and will be remem- 16-4 History of Republic County. bered by the old settlers during life. Saturday, the ll'th, was a very warm day, with a strong wind blowing from the south, people were busy plowing and planting, but on Sunday morning all was changed, a fierce gale was blow- ing, the snow as fine as flour, seemed to penetrate every crevice. The air was so thick that it was impossible to see more than a few rods. On Monday the storm was, if possible, worse, the cold became bitterly intense, the air was thick as deep fog, the wind seemed to come now in great, bounding billows, seeming to make the very earth tremble, then in a screaming hurricane as if bent on tearing everything from the earth, it was dangerous to go out of doors, indeed, many in Kansas and Nebraska perished, and the loss of stock was large. I remember the writer felt constrained amid the mighty uproar to re- turn thanks to the Lord for a poverty that had forbidden him to build even a shanty above the ground, but had com- pelled him like a coyote, to dig a hole in the earth for the protection of his family and himself. Tuesday morning the conditions were the same; the settlers became alarmed, it seemed as if the world had made a revolution endwise and we had come to the place formerly occupied by the north pole, but in the afternoon the clouds broke away and we were able to dig out, and give our stock water, some of which had not received that attention since the Satur- day before. In 1872 the corn was fair. In 1878 considerable wheat was raised and hauled to the railroad, sixty miles. The corn also was good in 1873. In 1874 the wheat was pretty fair, that was the grasshopper year that you may have heard of, it was a very dry year and the corn on the prairie would not have amounted to much anyhow. It was a great blow to the farmers to lose their hogs; they had seen that it would never do to haul corn so far to mar- ket, and had made every possible sacrifice to get a start of hogs, but now there was nothing to feed them but a little wheat, so, after the hogs ate up the wheat they had History of Republic County. 165 to be killed for such meat as they would make or starve to death. The winter of 1874 was the aid winter, when the kind hearted people of the east sent almost all kinds of things to Kansas. To see a person full rigged in eastern city toggery, was an amusing sight, why, I don't know, but there seemed to be akindof unfitness about it. I re- member that Mr. McCathron, the distributor for Norway, gave the writer a gray blanket; of which his wife made him a coat, never was garment more acceptable, for with- out it he would have been coatless that winter. In the spring of 1875 many left the country; much land that had been broken was not tended that year, how- ever there were many who had come to look upon a condi- tion of abject poverty as the proper condition of man by this time and they went to work with such seed of wheat and corn as they were able to obtain, and we bad fair crops that year and also in 1876. About this time there occurred an event that, from a frivolous beginning, created quite an excitement along the river. There appeared in a Missouri paper a flaming article, afterwards copied and illustrated by the New York Police Gazette, regarding a sea serpent which appeared in the river at Scandia. The article was about as follows: "On Sunday morning, as Mr. George Lembke. the toll collector of the bridge, approached the river, he saw a huge monster in the stream and uttered a Swedish cry of astonishment which brought the whole population running to the bank. The appearance of these persons seemed to astonish and enrage the creature, and rearing itself upon its hind legs, it reached its long neck over the bank, and was almost in the act of seizing an in- habitant; just at this moment Mr. Birchfield, who had rushed promptly to the scene with his fire extinguisher strapped upon his back, aimed the nozzle of his machine at the open mouth of the animal and discharged such a stream of chemicals down the creature's throat as to cause it to fall back into the water and depart rapidly down the river. Raising its huge, cut-water fin, it parted the waves, throw- 166 History of Republic County ing the water with great violence against either bank and soon disappeared around the bend." Now what concerned us was its departing down the river. The Republican river had its rise in the wild and unknown regions of the west and we did not know what kind of creatures had their being there. One settler, who farmed on the east side but lived on the west, refused to cross the river to tend his corn and let it go to weeds. An- other man. a Buffalo hunter and Indian killer, patrolled the river bank for days in the hope of adding fresh laurels to an already undying fame. The cause of the sea serpent scare was very simple. It seems that Mr. Lembke had set a hook in the river for the enticement of such w^andering cattish as might be pas- sing, to which some person had fastened an enormous bull snake, they being very plenty and of great size in those days. Mr. Birchtield, who was a very pleasant gentleman, al- History of Republic County. ]67 though a little odd, had procured a fire extinguisher, which he was fond of showing to his friends at the store, which stood on the corner where Morey's bank now is. A drummer, who saw Mr. Lembke pull the snake from the river and to whom was shown the tire extinguisher, being of romantic disposition and vivid imagination, wrote the thrilling tale which had created so much uneasiness. In 1878 the Central Branch railroad was surveyed up through the township and completed the next year. In July, 1878, we had a railroad county bond election for the aid of the Kansas Pacific to build a branch to Belle- ville. And now that I have mentioned something politi- cal, I wish to refer to our earlier politics, as time has healed all wounds and the cry that was wont to arouse us, " Belleville Ring," is no longer heard. In those days there was not much party politics, the county being overwhelm- ingly republican; there were a few democrats and they were much in evidence like a woodpecker on a knot — mak- ing considerable noise without much visible result. It seems that from the earliest settlement there had been a bitter rivalry between Belleville and Scandia for the pos- session of the county seat. I do not think the writer had been in the township twenty -four hours before he was fully instructed by the older settlers as to the innate vil- lainy and hopeless rascality of the "Belleville Ring;" they had stolen the county seat from Scandia, a wrong which was going to be speedily rectified. We, of Norway, were all for Scandia; it was our town and place of trade, and as the years rolled on and there were reports of fresh villain- ies, we were worked up to fever heat. Every year, just be- fore election, the Scandia lawyers would come around and tell us what candidate or measure to vote for, and they were willingly obeyed. I remember all our old arguments; "no water could be had in Belleville, or if one did get any, it was almost poisonous for an honest man or beast," although the 'Ring" seemed to thrive on it; no railroad could ever get there over those hills, and it was al- 168 Hisiorv of Republic County. together a pestiferous place." As for Scandia, there was water there in plenty, it was easy of access to a railroad, its lawyers were the most learned of the profession, with an eloquence equalled only perhaps by Clay and Webster, her merchants the princes of trade, and her editors — with what bitter sarcasm they assailed the "Belleville Ring, " especially Jim Humphrey and the Telescope." We sec- onded every move that Scandia made, and although most of her schemes miscarried and some of them had an effect opposite from what was intended, we never faltered in our allegiance, and great was the reward thereof. Selah! I remember that at the bond election of which I have written, we had visitors from Belleville, four I think, I do not now remember who, except Mr. Allen, commonly called "Dad." We were glad to see them, for in Norway our politics do not interfere with our friendships; they stayed some time and on preparing to go, Mr. Allen called the writer aside and asked a good many questions as to how far it was to the graders' camp, how many, if any, were legal voters here, how many votes we had polled up to the present moment, etc. When through, I asked him why all these questions. He replied that it had been reported in Belleville that we were going to run in a couple of hun^ dred railroad graders who were working just over the line in Cloud county, to vote against the bonds. After they had gone, I was asked what we were talking about, and I re- peated the conversation. There was considerable indigna- tion. One old gentleman said that because they were a set of black rascals themselves, they thought everybody else was, and blamed me for not kicking up a racket, or else informing him of what they said before they got away. To this day, I am not clear in my mind as to whether I did right or wrong in permitting the escape of the Belle- villians. In 1879 the village of Elgo was platted by Gus. Nelson, the proprietor. T. A. Nelson was the pioneer merchant. Elgo and Norway are identical; Norway being the com- History of Republic County. 169 mon, and Elgo the scientific name. In 1880 the township was divided into two voting pre- cincts. Norway proper, east, and Norway west side, west of the river, this division continued until after the building of the bridge. And now I approach a subject which has been the crowning event so far in the history of the township — the building of the Norway bridge, and how we got it, which, I presume, is a secret to some to this day, when all will be made clear. As soon as the railroad was in opera tion, many in the township thought they could see a fair prospect for a thriving town at Norway; there was a good productive country all around it, and if there was a bridge across the river there was no reason why it should not make an important trading point. So in 1883 we had a township bond election for building a bridge, which was defeated. About this time Captain Wm. Walker built the elevator, and he thought we ought to have a bridge, and with him, to think is to act. He went to Topeka at his own expense, and there wrote the present Republic county bridge law, and ably assisted by our then representative, Wm. Glasgow, pressed it through the legislature. And to that action can be credited the splendid bridge system of the county. Directly after the bill became a law, Captain Walker telegraphed his son at Norway to have the neces- sary petition circulated and tiled with the county clerk. In a few hours the petition was signed by nearly every voter in the township and on its way to Belleville. We then be- gan to besiege the county commissioners, singly and in delegations; we got fair words in plenty, but no bridge. As we were about to abandon all hope, one day in the spring of '86 I met an old friend who had been in the county clerk's office for years, Mr. Perry, who, I suppose from habit, kept the run of county affairs. He asked how we were prospering with our bridge project. I felt wearied by the question and made some answer, I do not recollect what. His reply, as near as I can remember, was as fol- lows: "You can get your bridge if you go about it in the 170 History of Republic County. right way, for at present the law certainly means the Nor- way bridge. If I lived in Norway township I would be in favor of engaging competent counsel that the matter might be properly presented to the board." Meeting some of the friends of the bridge in Norway, I repeated the conversation I had with Mr. Perry, and it was concluded that we would make another effort and the friends of the bridge were accordingly notified. From first to last we had many bridge meetings; pro- bably a hundred, and they had got to be an old thing; peo- ple had lost heart and supposed we would never get a bridge, at least not until all the rest of the county had been supplied. At the meeting only seven appeared, but they were good ones. Prom hints we heard we had become dis- trustful of our guides and mentors — the Scandia lawyers. Besides we considered it very probable that their feeling was that a brid|^ at Scandia was the only one they desired, as above all things they were loyal to Scandia and to no other place, hence it was unanimously agreed that if pos- sible we would secure the assistance of N. T. VanNatta to present our case. Our method of choosing a delegation to wait upon Mr. VanNatta was very simple — we just concluded we would all go. So in a few days we proceeded to Belleville and were fortunate in finding him in his oftice. On stating our case Mr. NanVatta produced a copy of the session laws containing the law, and after reading it attentively remarked, that from the present situation of the river bridges, the law certainly meant the- Norway bridge, and sent one of our number to the County Clerks's office for certain information, which Mr. Studley very kindly and promptly gave. Mr. Van Natta undertook our case, and on a certain day when the County Commissioners were in session, we were to return to Belleville, and meanwhile to say nothing about the matter; but everything got out, as it usually does in such cases. We heard that we were to be opposed, it seems, by a History oj Republic County. 171 petition iov a bridge at Sherdahl switch, claiming to be of an earlier date than ours, which was absurd unless their petition was dated before the law was passed. One of them being afterwards asked how he could champion the propo- sition when the law required the bridges to be at least six miles apart — Sherdahl being not four — said they did not mean to measure by section lines, the law did not require it, they meant to measure the meanders of the river! On the day appointed we repaired to Belleville and en- countered Mr. VanNatta in the hallway of the courthouse. He was there purposely, I believe, to head us off from go- ing into the county clerk's oftice where the commissioners were in session. He rounded us up and told us he had made some progress with our case, but that Mr. Wilder and Mr. Wilson were before the commissioners, and had been all the day before, and he very strongly suspected they were waiting to oppose our plans, and advised us not to go in, as the county commissioners had said they had no desire to hear any arguments, but to leave the whole mat- ter with him. Mr. Wells, chairman of the board, also said to some of our party whom he met on the street. "We will not have time to consider your bridge petition today; we will be in session several days, however, and it will receive attention before we adjourn; in the meantime it will not be neces- sary for you to remain, your representative will be sufli- cient. " We took this advice, but before leaving, the writer could not help steaUng back to the door to take one linger- ing look at our old time "Standard Bearers" waiting there, Oh, so patiently! When they saw him standing in the door they smiled, their smile resembling, I suppose, the grin of two amiable tigers about to feast on a victim, as they thought the time for doing us up had come. I gazed mournfully upon them, as I thought if this was all our re- ward for our years of devotion to Scandia, rent by all the pangs of a discarded lover, I fled from the Court 'house to 172 History of Republic County. conceal my emotions, when suddenly a great light broke in upon my mind and a voice seemed to shout in my ear, "Miserable deluded! all these years you have been swear- ing at the wrong ring!" In a few weeks we had the pleasure of seeing in the official paper of the county, the call for bids for building the Norway bridge. The bridge was built in 1887 and is a splendid structure, costing nearly thirteen thousand dollars. High up on the bridge the builders placed — and most properly so — a plate of bronze with the names of the coun- ty commissioners, Messrs. Wells, Kyle and Smith, en- graved thereon, and I presume the same is the case with all the river bridges of the county. But higher yet, over and above all, on every one of them, in letters of gold a foot high and on a plate of silver sixteen foot long, should be inscribed the name of William Walker. Since the building of the bridge there has been no incident proper to record here. We are at peace with all the world. Our dreams as to a thriving city at Norway are not, as yet, fully realized, although it is a busy place where much stock and grain is bought and many goods are sold. Shortly after building the bridge the Santa Fe road was built near the west line of the township and the town of Kackley, as it were, was built almost in our door yard, with the station of Courtland and Oneonta to the north and south of it, thus cutting off a great trade that would have come to us, so that our visions of the paved streets, brick blocks, shining minarets and golden towers, (and how mad we would get because people would continue to put Republic county on our letters) were but the empty fabric of a dream. The privations to which the pioneer settlers of Norway township were subjected, and the hardships endured by them, so graphically described by Mr. Stanton, were the History of Republic County. 173 common lot of nearly all the settlers of Republic county during the early 70 's. LINCOLN TOWNSHIP Was settled by Daniel Myers, in February, 1861, one of the first settlements in the county. West Creek post- office was established June 26th, 1871, and Joseph A. Dew- eese appointed postmaster. Sections 17, 27, 33, 34 and 35 are underlaid with coal, and pottery clay is found on the northeast quarter of section 16. Hydraulic cement is also found in the township in considerable quantities, and mag- nesia limestone of most excellent quality is distributed throughout the entire township. It is watered by West creek, and has considerable timber. The township was organized September 4th, 1871, and the following officers appointed: Alex Mclntyre, Trustee; Jacob Shafer, treasurer; Elisha Ray, Constable. Geo. J. Trowbridge, second treasurer of the county, was an early settler of this township. The first election was ordered held at the residence of Jacob Shafer, one of the early settlers. The Junction City and Port Kearney branch of the Union Pacific railroad has a mileage of 0.59 miles in this township assessed in 1901, at $3028. GRANT TOWNSHIP. As stated elsewhere in this history, the first settle- ment in the county was made in 1861 by Conrad Myers. He was soon followed by John W. Cory, James G. Tuttle Capt. Isaac M. Schooley, C. M. Way, P. P. Way, Charles A. Campbell, John M. Campbell, Dan Moreland and Thomas J. Durant, all of whom made settlement during the 60's, all selecting land with timber and water and some of the finest bottom land in Republic county, and that they have prospered is not to be wondered at. Grant is one of the most prosperous townships in the county, stock growing and feeding being the leading industries. The great salt marsh, described in another chapter, lies wholly within 174 History of Republic County. township. Grant was one of the three townships organ- ized by the commissioners at their first meeting after the organization of the county, and its history is interwoven with the general historj^ of the county. It has two lines of railroad: The B. & M. with 0.27 miles, assessed 1901 .$2883o Union Pacific with 5.73 " " " 31011 Total 12.00 Total $59846 Only two other townships have a greater mileage. ELK CREEK TOWNSHIP. Elk Creek, lying in the southeastcorner of the county, was settled early in 1868, the first settlers being W. H., Geo. W. and E. A. Willoughby, Wm. Oliver, A. Mapes, M. H. Harper, Samuel and Robert Edwards, Romante Alder- man and Prank Smith. John Manning, G. W. Johnson, Reuben James and John W. Jarrett arrived October ] 5th, the same year; and C G. Bowers and family, on the 16th. John H. Ranney came later in the fall. David Doran is among the early settlers and is still a resident of the township. Elk creek flows from north to south across the town- ship, affording plenty of water, and in many places along its banks, there is considerable timber. Limestone, for building purposes, is abundant. The township was or- ganized in 1871. At the election held in April, 1872, the following town- ship officers were elected: Robert H. Vining, trustee; P. McDonald, clerk; Geo. W. Johnson, treasurer; John Can- ary, justice of the peace; H. S. Cole, constable; P. M. Ja quays, constable. The first marriage in the township was R. H. Vining and Martha J. Ohver, January 1st, 1869. The township is crossed by C. R. I. and Pacific rail- road, with a mileage of 6.01 miles, assessed in 1901 ac $42- 804. 'a a P ^ i 0) rn Q) rn ^ en r3 bX) oT a a Sf O P o 3 History of Republic County. 175 CHAPTER XVL CITIES AND TOWNS. BELLE\aLLE CITY. The Belleville Townsite Company was organized on the 25th day of September, 1869, and the following named persons were reported as charter members: James E. VanNatta, A. B. Tutton, W. A. Means, J. H. Print, T. C. Reily, W. H. H. Reily, W. A. Dugger, John McParlane, John Harris, jr., B. F. Sayler, T. C. Smith, W. W. Newlon, John W. Cory, G. H. Jackson and N. T. VanNatta. The site selected was the NWi of section 2, town 3 south, range 3 west, the same being made with a view to a central location in the county. On motion of A. B. Tutton, the town was christened Belleville, in honor of Arabelle, his wife. At this time the town was on paper wholly, no buildings having been erected, nor improvements of any kind made. At this meeting the following resolution was unanimously adopted: ^^ Resolved, That this company proposes Belle- ville as a point for the county seat of Republic county, Kansas, and that we all use due exertion, as a company and individually, for its election." Subsequent events show that this company stood together to carry out this resolu- tion. At the second meeting of the company, held August 27th, the charter and by-laws were adopted, and the fol- lowing officers elected: J. E. VanNatta, president; John McParlane, secretary; John Harris, jr., treasurer; B. P. Sayler, J. C. Reily and A. B. Tutton, were elected direct- ors. A portion of the townsite was surveyed by E. P. Hedenskogg, county surveyor, in the fall of 1869. The third meeting was held November 13th, 1869, at which meeting R. P. West moved that a house 16x18 feet be erected for the use of the company, and that the logs for the same be placed on the ground by November 27th, which motion prevailed. A. B. Tutton was chosen chair- 176 History of Republic County. man of the board of directors, and the meeting adjourned. No more meetings were held until March, 1870, when 1,000 feet of native lumbei- was purchased for §35, de- livered, and Mr. Tutton authorized to receive bids for dig- ging a well. The next meeting was held April 4th and the job of digging the well was let to Dave Woodruff. Next meeting was held May 29th, 1870, when the fol- lowing plan and specifications for finishing the house were adopted: T^solved, That the town house be chinked with rock, daubed with mortar, covered with cottonwood shingles, one door and one window cut and finished, gables finished with lumber, window to be in the east and door in the west end. Opportunity was now offered for bids to finish the house in accordance with the above plans and specifica- tions, and the same being received and considered, the contract was awarded to John G. Rich for the sum of $26, the house to be completed in twenty days, which we pre- sume, was complied with, although this the record does not show. We may state, in passing, that W. P. Weeks slept in this house on the night of April 28th, 1870, before it was roofed, he being the first citizen that slept on the town site. This log building, standing alone on the high prairie, with no other buildings or timber in sight, pre- sented an apj^erance of incongruity; yet the squatty little structure had an air of newness about it that was quite refreshing. This house has frequently been referred to as the log court house. This is a mistake as it was never used for that purpose. The county commissioners held a few meetings in it in 1870 and one or two suits before justices of the Peace were tried there in the summer of 1871. In this house the first store was kept, by J. C. Bright; the first postoftice by A. B. Tutton, postmaster; and the first school taught by Mrs. Eliza G. Latham, in the winter Residence of J. C. Gui^nea, Belleville City History of Republic County. Ill of 1H70-71. It was also used for church purposes, lectures and lyceums and later was occupied as a dwelling house. The first building erected on the north side of the public square was the Belleville hotel, built by William Piper, from Macoupin county, Illinois, completed and opened for business about the middle of September, 1870, The original was about 16x32 feet, 14 feet in height and had a board floor and shingle roof. I mention the fact in regard to the floor and roof as being exceptional for these days, making this hotel a celebrated one west of the sixth principal meridian. It was what was then called a "box house," the siding being pine stock boards twelve inches wide, standing up and downand battened with pinestrips two inches in width, was sided with native lumber, principally Cottonwood, and unbattened, all without lath or plaster and was not guilty of paint either outside or in. Mr. Piper re- received from the Town Company, as a bonus for building this house, two choice lots on the public square and an ex- cellent residence lot three blocks away. At all times dur- ing dry weather, the guests of this house while seated at the table, enjoyed a fine perspective through the openings between the boards, which at times but partially enclosed the north end of the building, of the future fine farming lands of Freedom and Liberty townships, with the dimly described fertile plains of Thayer county, Nebraska, in the distance. In rainy weather, however, these openings would close and the beautiful landscape would be obscured from view. The front part of this building, 12x16, was used as an office, parlor, confectionery store, cigar store and wash room. The rear 16x20 feet, for dining room and kitchen, but where the dining room left off and the kitch- en commenced, I believe was never definitely determined. In cold and stormy weather some of the guests would, after having their meals served, take their plates and cof- fee and gather around the kitchen stove, while others would retire to the parlor, their footprints being easily traced in the snow, greatly to the annoyance and disgust 178 History of Republic Coiintv. of the chief cook and head waiter, who frequently in- dulged in remarks which could not possibly be construed as complimentary to the offending guests. The bill of fare consisted of corn bread and bacon, sorghum and cof- fee, with beans twice a week. On holidays and festival occasions, buffalo steak and jack rabbits were sometimes served. This period is known in history as the "Cornbread and Sorghum Era" in Republic county. The entire upper story was used for sleeping apart- ments, six in number, the bridal chamber 10x16 feet be- ing the south room and immediately over the parlor. The other rooms were occupied by Mr. Piper and family, the cook and waiters, regular boarders and transient guests. Mr. Piper was also the proprietor of another and less pretentious building, standing near the hotel, remembered by the early settlers as the cottonwood saloon which also has a history, as will be noticed in another chapter. In the spring of 1871 Piper moved to his claim two and one-half miles north of town, the farm now owned by S. T. Collins, the hotel being managed during the summer by J. B. Whitsell, reputed to be a bigamist from Mexico, Mo. Whitsell resigned in the fall, his place being taken by Mr. Solomon Wilcox, an old and highly respected citi- zen, father-in-law of J. A. Mosher. Mr. Wilcox kept the house until March, 1872. During the summer of that year V. Vantrump having purchased the premises, enlarged, refitted and refurnished the house and kept, for those days, a reasonably good hotel. Vantrump was succeeded by Geo. H. Wilkes, a practical hotel keeper, who made the Belleville hotel for the first time in its history, a desir- able stopping place, spreading a table which has not to this day been surpassed in -Belleville. Mr. Wilkes was followed by William Haskett, who raised the building, put in the basement and otherwise improved and refitted the house. Under his management the hotel was well kept and well patronized. History of Republic County. 179 James H. Bradd, of Albion township, took charge of the house the summer of 1875 and managed it until his death January 1, 1877. Mr. Bradd was succeeded by F. N. Munger, who tooli charge January 12th, 1877, and man- aged the same in a satisfactory manner until May 23d of that year, when he was succeeded by Capt. Geo. L. White, now of Scandia, who kept the house fully up to the de- mands of the times and was a genial and popular landlord. Capt. White's successor was Moses J. Post, now in Den- ver, Colorado, who built what was called the "new part" and under his management the hotel was a credit to the city and increased in popularity. This building about which so much historic interest clusters was, with four other frame buildings on the north side, with nearly all their contents, destroyed by fire on the evening of Sep- tember 25, 1888. During the summer and fall of 1870 several substan- tial business houses were built, among which we mention, a general store on the southwest corner of the public square, by G. D. Bowling, a drug and grocery store, by J. C. Griffith; a general store, by Vantrump & Hallowell; and a hotel on the north side of the square, by Wm. Piper. During the summer of 1870 the little Telescope was started, the first issue being on the 20th of September. Geo. Wood started the first blacksmith shop in the fall, on the south- west corner of the square. Charles Blanchard opened the first wagon shop, and manufactured the first wagon and the first buggy at Belleville in August, 1872. Everything seems to have worked harmoniously and well until the latter part of the year 1870, when A. B. Tut- ton, a member of the board of directors, accompanied by Marshall Stone and J. C. Bright as witnesses, proceeded to the land office at Junction City, where he represented himself as president of the Townsite company and author- ized and empowered by said company to make final j^roof on the NW i of section 2, town 3, range 3, the tract se- lected as the townsite of Belleville. With the assistance of ISO History of Republic Countv. Stone and Bright, on whom the obligations of an oath seem to have rested very hghtly, he succeeded in mak- ing final proof, taking receiver's receipt in his own name. We had heard before this of a man stealing a barn in the state of New York, but this was the first case we recollect of where a whole townsite had been stolen. Soon after this Tutton left for parts unknown, but was pursued by R. W. VanDyke and W. S. Latham, acting for the town company, who, after a long and tedious search, captured him at York Center, Nebraska, and brought him to Belle- ville to answer for his crookedness. A rope and a limb of a tree were talked of, but better counsels prevailed, a compromise effected, and Tutton deeded the townsite back to the company, after which he was allowed to depart in peace. This fraudulent final proof made by Tutton was after- ward cancelled by the general land office. On the 9th day of August, 1872, the town company requested J. C. Grif- fith, probate judge, to prove up on the Belleville town site. For this purpose he was provided, by the company, with agricultural college scrip. On the 10th of August the judge reported that he had made final proof as requested, whereupon the town company resolved to issue deeds on demand to those entitled to them. But towards the latter part of February, 1873, intelligence was received from the land office that the commissioner of the general land office at Washington had refused to accept agricultural college scrip in payment of townsites, and that the scrip sent had been returned. By direction of the town company, C. H. Smith and V. Van trump, accompanied by Judge Boothe, proceeded to Concordia, and made final proof on the town site, by paying cash, on the 28th day of February, 1873, just in time to make the town property taxable for that year; and so at last, after much delay and vexation, a title was obtained, the patent being received October 1st, 1874. On the first day of December, 1874, the unsold lots belong- ing to the company were divided by lot among the stock- History oj Republic County. 181 holders, and the Belleville Townsite Company, after an eventful career of over five years, was dissolved. Belleville was incorporared as a city of the second class January 10th, 1878, embracing 1,000 acres, com- mencing at the northeast corner of the SE^of section 35, in township 2 south, range three west, thence west 100 rods thence south 400 rods, thence east 400 rods, thence north 100 rods to the place of beginning. This description in- cluded the townsite of Belleville, viz., the NE \, section 2, town 3, range 3, and contained a population of 260. The first election was held January 26, 1878, when the following ofiicers were elected: Wm. H. Woodward, May- or; William Haskett, Police Judge; Chauncey Perry, Ed- win Knowles, Daniel Miller, Ed. E. Chapman and P. N. Munger, councilmen. The following were the appointed officers: Willis C. Allen, city marshal; A. E. Taylor, city attorney; Charles H. Smith, city clerk; Columbus Taylor, city treasurer; W. C. Allen, street commissioner. Among the first or- dinances passed was one relating to dram shops, saloons, taverns and tippling houses, also one to prevent intoxica- tion, so it seems our early city fathers were not unmind- ful of the existence of these evils and were employing their best talent in legislating against them. The first dram shop license issued by the city author- ities was issued to M. Patrie, February 12tli, 187H. The regular election for city officers was held April 11th, when the first officers were all re-elected. The mayors, while a city of the third class, have been W. H. Woodward, 1878 and 1H79; Chauncey Perry, 1880 and 1H81; F. N. Munger, 1H82; S. G. Stover, 1883. At the election in 1884 E. A. Hallowell and S. C. Crummer re- ceived an equal number of votes for mayor, which was de- cided by lot, the office falling to Hallowell. S. C. Crum- mer, 1885; W. C. Allen, issB; T. R. May, 1887. At a regular council meeting held November 1st, 1887, Joseph P. Sherer was appointed enumerator to take the 182 History of Republic County. census of the city with a view of orji,aiiiziiiy as a city of the second-class. Mr. Sherer performed that duty and re- ported December 8th that the city contain.ed a population of 2,104. Mr. Sherer must have been an expert, for lu> found a greater number of people here than any one els(> has been able to find either before or since. However, the report was accepted and a petition at once forwarded to Governor John A. Martin, asking that the city of Belle- ville be declared a city of the second-class, which petition was acted upon favorably and on February 14th, 1888, in pursuance of the proclamation of the governor, it was de- clared by the mayor and city council to be a city of the second-class, its boundaries greatly enlarged and divided into wards as follows : All that portion of the city south of the C. K. & N. Railway and east of Commercial street to be knowm as Ward No. 1; all that south of the C. K. & N. Railway and west of Commercial to be known as Ward No. 2, and all that portion north of the C. K. &. N. Railway to be known as Ward No. 3. The boundaries of these wards have never been changed. Mayors and clerks of Belleville as city of the sec- ond-class: MAYORS. CLERKS. E. M. Crummer 1888 J. H. Long 1888 Geo. S. Simonds 1889-1890 J.H.Long 1889 T. M. Noble 1891-1892 T. A. T'ordry first half 1890 G. E. Knowlton 189.3-1894 John C. Hogin. .. .last half 1890 Resigned October 22, 1894. E. B. Towle '91-'92- '93 John M. Doyle, from November R. M. Armstrong 1894 6, 1894 to April 9, 1895. John C. Hogin, from Novem- Amos Pierce '95- '96 6, 1894-'95-'96-'97-'98-'99-'0O. J ames Shepherd ' '97-'98 H. T. Crawford 1899 Resigned September 4, 1900. John M. Doyle, acting mayor until September 28th, when Geo S. Spencer was elected to fill vacancy. Amos Pierce 1901 The postmasters at Belleville have been: A. B. Tutton, a])pointed Feb. 18th, 1870 Volney Vantrurap, " Jan. 16tb, 1871 fe-||| JEl.LEill.LE apt STOHS^ J Belleville Cash Store, Loomis & HoUandsworlh. Proprietors. History of Republic County. 183 .June, 11th, 1877 .Oct. 25th, 1877 .June nth, 1883 .July 31st, 1885 March 28th, 1888 .Feb. 28th, 1891 March 20th, 1895 .April 1st, 1899 .Sept. 22nd, 1899 Eli W. Wagner, Volney Vantrump, William A lirock. Max J. A 1 wens, .John McLaury, William A. Brock, Charles P. Baldwin, ' Joseph H. Long, Madge E. Long, Mes.srs. A. H. Loomis and W. A. Hollandsworth came to Belleville February 27th, 1899, and opened a general store in the south room of the hotel block, which they now use as a flour and feed room. The building shown in the cut was erected especially for them during the summer of 1900. It has a frontage of fifty feet, is eighty feet deep, with a fine basement, making a total floor space in the two rooms of 56,000 square feet. They have more than quad- rupled their stock since they commenced business. They have their own light plant and have one of the lightest and best equipped store rooms in Republic county. They are both young men and hustlers, anticipating a bright future in their business. In answer to a question as to their success, said they owe it to selling lots of goods at small profits. Belleville, with a population of 2000 is beautifully sit- uated on high, gently rolling upland, very nearly in the center of the county. It is the junction for two divisions of the great Rock Island system. The Junction City branch of the Union Pacific terminates here, giving this section another direct line to the east and west. The city has a fine water system and the telephone service is sur- passed by none; a large first class flouring mill and ele- vator combined, and two other large elevators. There are nine church organizations here, with six substantial church edifices, all well sustained and flourishing. A graded school, with three handsome school buildings in which nine teachers are employed at least eight months in the year; a fine opera house, complete in all its appointments; two 184 History of Republic County. good weekly newspapers, one of which has the best plant of any city of its size in the state; an elegant court house and jail, although the last named building is but little used, as more peaceable and law-abiding people are nowhere to be found. SCANDIA CITY. The tirst settlement made at Scandia was in the fall of 1868, by the members of the Scandinavian Agricultural Society, of Chicago, Illinois. The first settlers to arrive were M. Johnson, Charles Lesom, P. Walin, Lundin, John Strom, F. Granstadt, A. Bergren, A. Erickson, J. R. Sandell, John Holmstrom and Peter Johnson. The town was named New Scandinavia. The first store was built in the fall of 1869, by J. R. Sandell, size 8 feet square, and his first stock of goods ia- voiced one hundred and twenty-five dollars. This was the first store started in Republic county. The second busi- ness house was built b}'^ A. B. Whiting, of Milford, Davis county, who kept a stock of general merchandise. The third was Wilson Brothers — Charles and A. D. — who kept a general store, starting in the spring of 1870. The next was a grocery house, by August Weld, who commenced business some time in the summer. A. T. Miller and Amos Coyle built a business house in the summer of 1870, and commenced general merchandising in the fall. Dr. Amos Coyle started a drug store the same fall. L. C. Han- son opened the "Hanson House" early in the spring of 1870, being the first hotel in Republic county. At the time the settlement was made at Scandia, the nearest settler on the south was one Dutton, in Cloud county, about sixteen miles down the river. The nearest on the east was the Salt Creek settlement, about fourteen miles distant, and S. M. Fisher and a few others had made settlement on White Rock Creek. In the spring of 1869, immediately after the killing of the boy Granstadt, by the Indians, E. B. Pedersen was dispatched to Fort Riley, the a D a- td History of Republic County. 185 nearest military post, for assistance, but failed to procure any at that time. A short time after, however, seventy- live men under the command of Col. Weir, were sent to Scandia, where they remained on duty about two months. The post otifice was established July 1st, 1869, E. H. Hansen being the first postmaster, and the office was called New Scandinavia. This was the third postoffice es- tablished in the county. The mail was brought from Junction City once a week. The postmasters at New Scandinavia have been: K. H. Hansen, aupointed June 24 1860 August Asbjournson, appointed Jan 24 1870 John R. Sandell , appointed Aug 11 1870 Jacob L. Gui, appointed Apr 25 1872 Charles N. Hogan, appointed .... Oct 11 1872 Jacob L. Gui, appointed Dec 12 1872 John R. Sandell, appointed May 1 1874 Charles Peterson, appointed July 16 1875 Name changed to Scandia June 7 187() Charles Peterson, appointed June 7 1876 Adelbert B. Wilder, appointed Feb 26 1877 John Hadsell, appointed Feb 211878 (xeorge L. White, appointed. . . . . Mch 17 1881 William Walker, appointed ... July 3 1886 Stoy E. Ware, appointed May 11891 William Walker, appointed Mch 29 1893 Albert B. Kimball, appointed May 6 1897 Geo. Lembke was the first Justice of the Peace in Scandia township, being appointed by Gov. Harvey, in the spring of 1870, which office he held for several years. The first school taught in Scandia was in the summer of 1870, by Maria Young, now the wife of Walter Johnson. This was a three months' subscription school, and was taught in the old colony building, afterward purchased by the district, and used for several years as a school house. The Atchison, Republican Valley, and Pacific Railroad company was organized in April, 1878, and work com- menced in June of the same year. The first train ran into Scandia, December 2-lth, 1878. The Hanson House was destroyed by fire, October 22, 186 Histoiy of Republic County. 1879; was rebuilt the same fall, and reopenedin just three months from the date of the tire. The order of incorporation of Scandia as a city of the third class, was made March 28th, 1879. First election held on the 15th of April, 1879, at which A. D. Wilson was elected mayor, C. W. Gulick, D. F. Longnecker, T. A. Nel- son, L. C. Hanson and A. B. Wilder, councilmen. R. L. Whitney was elected police judge. A. D. Marble was appointed city clerk; Isaac McClun, treasurer, and M. J. Sigsbee, marshall and street commissioner. The first sawmill w^as brought to the county hy the Scandinavian colony in the fall of 1868. It was hauled from Waterville on a wagon with six wheels, drawn by five yoke of oxen and was set up in Scandia on the river bank just south of where Finney's elevator now" stands. The mill was ow^ned by the colony and remained at Scan- dia until the spring of 1870, when it was moved three miles down the river to the quarter section which after- wards became the homestead of Charles Nordmark, where it was operated until the fall of that year by Ras- mus son brothers and L. Ellingson, these parties having rented it of the colony. It was then moved some three and one-half miles further down the river to the home- stead of Joseph Merica, the farm now being owned by Joseph Blosser, where it remained until the spring of 1871, when it was moved back to Scandia and a grist mill attached. William Bell, late county commis- sioner, being the foreman and boss miller in the grist mill department for the years 1871 and 1872. The mill was remodeled and considerably improved in 1873 by the addition of a new engine, two runs of new burrs, new bolt- ing machinery, etc. The dam across the river, one-half mile above the old site of the mill, was built in 1876, at an expense of $5,000, and the mill moved and rebuilt. Excel- lent water power was obtained, with a fall of six feet, Leffel's Turbine wheel running four burrs, two for wheat, one for corn, and one for middlings. Cai)acity of the History of Republic County. 187 mill, 150 barrels of Hour per day besides corn and mid- dlings: size of mill, 30x40 feet, two and a half stories high besides basement. This mill was successfully operated by C. F. Ericson until it was destroyed by fire and has not been rebuilt. Scandia is the second city in poi)ulation and commer- cial importance in Republic county, pleasantly located in the Republican valley at the intersection of the Rock Island and Missouri Pacific, has a graded school in which the higher branches are taught, a fine city hall, a good weekly newspaper, several churches and ample elevator facilities for handling the immense quantity of grain which finds a good market there. CUBA. The old town of Cuba was located on the NW i of section 4, in Richland township, and on the SW i of sec- tion 33 in Farmington township, on the main road leading from Belleville to Washington. John Swan built the first business house there in 1873 and for several years it was a place of considerable trade. When the B. & M. Railroad was built it missed the place and a new town also called Cuba was started about three miles southwest at the intersection of the Burling- ton & Missouri and the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroads. The town was laid out in the spring of 1884, and N. O. Danefer built the first general store and for several years was the leading merchant in the town. John D. Bennett published the first newspaper, "The Cuban," in the summer of 1885, it being the first paper published in the eastern portion of the county. It is now a flour- ishing little city of about 600 people, the population being about equally divided between native and foreign born, the foreigners being principally Bohemians, several of whom are leading business men of the city. It has two newspapers, a graded school, several churches, many first-class business houses and ample facilities forhandl- 188 History of Republic County. ing the jyrain and live stock of the county tributary to the phice, makinjj: it the third city in the county in population and tlie amount of business transacted. COUliTLAND. Courtland, in the west part of the county, located ;it the crossinj^ of the Rock Island and vSanta Fe roads, is an enterprising little city, with a weekly newspaper, a good bank, schools and churches, good facilities for handling grain and is justly noted as being one of the best grain markets in the county, as it is located in one of the best agricultural centers in the state, and no farming C(mimu- nity in Kansas is more substantial, intelligent or prosper- ous. Its history from the first has been one of steady growth, all its citizens working in harmony for the up- building of the city. It was incorporated as a city of the third-class July 18th, 1892, on the petition of A. A. Burk and fifty-nine others. The first election was ordered held at the office of the Courtland Register on Monday, July 25th, for the purpose of electing a mayor, police judge and five councilmen. The election was held as ordered, 112 ballots being cast, which being canvassed resulted in the election of C. Ever- est, mayor; C. F. Litsinger, police judge; A. N. Smith, L. F. Bradley, W. W. Stewart, T. L. Freeland, C. N. El- liott, councilmen. The mayors have been: C. Everest, 1892. L. F. Bradley was elected in April, 1893. and served until June 7th when he resigned, W. S. Conaway acting as mayor un- til November 13th, when A. A. Burk was elected and served until the end of the term. A. A. Burk 1S!)4 and ISS)-) A.N. Smith 18fl(i A. A. Burk 1897 Wm. Bateman IHHS and 189!) Paul Smitb 1900 C. M. Gevrev 1901 History of Republic County. 189 NARKA. The original plat of thetownsite of Narka was filed for record by M. A. Low, president, and C. J. Gilson, secre- tary of the Kansas Town and Land Company, Sept, 8th, 1887. A corrected plat was filed Oct. 13 th, same year, comprising 14 blocks, being all that part of section 16, town one south, range one west, which lies south of the right of way of the C. K. and N. Railway. Reeder's addition to Narka, containing blocks one and two, situated in the SW i of section 15, town one, Range one, was filed for record, April 4th, 1889. Brenneman's addition, containing three blocks in the NE corner of section 21, was filed for record Feburary 6th, 1894. Narka was incorporated as a city of the third class, April 9th, 1894, and the first election held May 14th,when the following officers were elected: J. V. Campbell, mayor; H. Beck, police judge; J. E. Walker, D. W. Dus- kin, S. H. Bacon, A. L. Brandon, A Brosh, Councilmen. The city council organized May 18, 1894. The mayor's have been: J. V. Campbell, 1894; B. H. Speer, 1895, '96, '97; R. A. Larabee, 1893; J. E. Arnold, 1899; G. E. Moore, 1900; S. M. Hunt, 1901. Population in 1901, 275, ranking as the 5th city in the county in population. The first hotel in the town was built in the fall of 1887 by James Foreman. The first buiness house was built by U. B. Mclntyre, a drug and grocery store, the same fall. The first physician was Dr. Edward Stone, who built the store now ocupied by Wm. Thomas. The first postmaster was S. M. Edwards. The Narka News, a live and bright paper, is published weekly by Howard E. Moore. Narka is surrounded by a fine farming country; is an excellent trading and shipping point, where all branches of trade are well represented. REPUBLIC CITY. Republic City is located on section 36, in Big Bend 190 History oj Republic County. township. In March, 1878, A. B. Young purchased the SW i of NE '\ of said section at a public sale of school land, with the view of starting a town. Mr. Young had asso- ciated with him, Milton Grim, H. S. Stone, T. F. Marlett. J. B. Pollard, Fred and Wm. Elliott each contributed ten acres of land, making seventy acres in all, with seven members as a town company. The company was chart- ered immediately and in May twelve blocks were laid off and lots offered free to any person who would build on them. About the first of October E. B. Duncan moved a small dwelling house from his farm, three miles away, and built a blacksmith shop about the same time. These were the first buildings on the town site. Gomeria postoflfice was moved from Mr. Pollard's, in October, to Duncan's, and Mr. Duncan appointed post- master. In May, 1879, Mr. A. Capers erected a business house, the town company donating him two lots. The postoffice was then moved from Duncan's to Capers, and the latter appointed postmaster, holding the ofiice until in 1882, when H. Stone was appointed. In June, 1879, Wm. Spotts built a small blacksmith shop and dwelling house combined. Mr. Spotts opened the first boarding house in the city. In September, E. Kerns erected the second business house, keeping dry goods and groceries. His building was blown down and Mr. Kerns soon after left. At the close of the year there were eight or nine buildings on the town site. In June, 1879, the town was surveyed,and lots offered for sale. In the fall, the extension of the Central Branch from Scandia to the state line was commenced, and some grading done. In the spring of 1880 the railroad was completed, depot built and trains commenced running in June. C. W. Gulick built the famous New York store, 20 x50 feet, in May of the same year. The Chicago Lumber Company opened a yard in June, with D. S. Zanker as manager. In the fall, George Michel erected his large History of Republic County. 191 and commodious livery stable. Another blacksmith shop was built, and an elevator erected. During the year 1881, the growth of the town was rapid. Many large business houses and several elegant dwelling houses were erected, and its growth has been healthful and continuous ever since, until it has become one of the liveliest little cities in Northern Kansas, being noted far and wide for the vast amount of grain and live stock it ships annually. An elegant city hall 40x80 feet, of which the citizens feel justly proud and which would be an honor to any city of three times its size, has just been completed. Republic City was incorporated as a city of the third class, April 23rd, 1885, since which time the fol- lowing well known citizens have been chosen mayors. Ralph W. Polly 1885 R. T. Stanfield 1887 and 1888 J.W.Goodrich 1889 F. W. Craft 1890 R. T. Stanfield 1891 and 1892 J. W. Goodfioh 1893 and 1894 R.W.Polly 1895 Gomel- T. Davies 1896 H. A. Baxter 1897 E. V. Rockhold 1898 and 1899 J. W. Boughner a part of 1899 W. H. Stinson 1900 and 1901 The village of Munden, so called from John Munden, owner of the land on which the town is built and trustee for Jane Ann Stephens, is located on the north line of Pairview townshiji. The original townsite was surveyed by E. W. Wagner, county surveyor, on the 29th and 30th days of September, ],887, containing seven blocks situated north of the C, K. & N. Railway in the northwest corner of section three (3) and the northeast corner of section four (4). The original plat was tiled for record October 31st, 1887. The tirst addition comprising blocks eight, nine and ten lying south of the C, K. & N. Railway, was filed for record August 18th, 1890. John Washichek built the first general store in the fall 392 History of Kepiiblic County. of 1887 and commenced selling goods in October of that year. Wesley Skocdopole was the first blacksmith com- mencing business early in the fall of 1887. A. M. Cantield, postmaster at Bethel, built a store building in the fall of 1887 and commenced business the last of October, 1887. He was the first postmaster at Munden. John Epherson, a Swede, built a millinery store building in the winter of 1887 and 1888. Joseph Kuchera built a hardware store in the spring of 1888, moved to Munden and commenced selling goods May 6th of that year. Anton Stransky built a business house in the summer of 1888 and commenced selhng goods August 1st. Amasa Welch built and kept the first restaurant and boarding house in the summer of 1888, running until fall, when he sold out to John Whitlach. The building is now occupied by Dr. G. E. Gray as a drug store. The Odd Fellows' hall, a two-story frame building, was moved from Ida to Mun- den in the summer of 1888. C. L. Houdek was the first to do business in this building in Munden. It was destroyed by tire June 28th, 1895. Was rebuilt of brick and dedi- cated April 26th, 1896. This building stands on the Rose Creek side of the line, is the best building in the town and is now occupied by Bowersox & McCall as a general store. Mr. O. A. Allen commenced business in 1892 as grocer and confectioner and is still in business as a general store- keeper. Joseph Stransky built a general store in 1894 and has been in business ever since. Mr. Stransky is the present postmaster. The grain business is represented by John W. Kelley and the Davis Elevator Company. The station agent is H. H. Howes. NEVA OR AGENDA. Neva is the name of the town and Agenda the name of the railroad station and postoffice. This town was laid out in 1887. The first building erected on the townsite other than railroad buildings was a store 28x50 feet, built by Joseph Cox in the fall of 1887. This building was rented History of Republic County. 193 by Stephen Bradley, who commenced selling goods in No- vember of that year and is still in the business at the same place. Geo. W. Smith built the second store and sold goods for several years. The grain elevator was built some two years later. The postoffice was kept at the depot for some time, when it was moved to Bradley's store and Bradley appointed postmaster, where it has been ever since, except during the four years of Cleveland's administration, during which time Geo. W. Smith was postmaster. WAYNE. The town of Wayne was laid out in May, 1884, imme- diatel}' after the B. & M. railroad was built. It is located on the SE i of section 9-4-2, this quarter being the home- stead of Isaac Walton, and which had been purchased by the Lincoln Land company for a town site. Wm. Hill erected a small frame building in August, 1884, which he occupied as a store, selling the first goods in Wayne. Olof and Hans England built a store in the fall of that year, which was rented to and occupied by George A. Ho- vey, as a store. Isaac Walton erected a store building about the same time. The stone block was built in the lat- ter part of 1884 and the spring of '85. The east room was built by M. S. Herring and occupied by him as a bank. John M. and Charles A. Campbell built the next two rooms and V. W. Wimer, the west room. John M. Campbell built the hotel in the fall of 1885. Wayne is surrounded by a fine farming and stock- raising country and is a good trading point, all branches of trade being well represented. HARBINE OR BYRON. Harbine is located on the NE i of section 4, town 1 south, range 4 west, in Republic county, and on the SE i of section 33, town 1 north, range 4 west, in Nebraska, and is on the line of the B. & M. railroad. The first building erected on the townsite was the 194 Hisforv of Republic County. railroad depot, in August, 1880. The second was a busi- ness house, by Boorman & Waite, on the Kansas side of the railroad. The next were a dwelling house, by David Carpenter, and a grain house by Gregg & Keyser, in the fall of the same year. Mr. Noah Miles, an old resident of Republic county, built the hotel in 1881, and Harsh & Son opened a lumber yard about the same time. Boorman & Waite built a second business house on the north side of the railroad, in March, 1883. Since that time as business increased, several business houses have been erected. This is a convenient shipping point, for one of the best ag- ricultural sections of country in northern Kansas and southern Nebraska. Nearly all branches of trade are represented here, and the town is in a highly prosperous condition. KACKLEY. This thriving and prosperous little town is located in Beaver township on the A. T. & S. Fe railroad, is sur- rounded by a rich agricultural country and is justly noted as being one of the best grain markets and shipping points in Republic county, especially for corn, which frequently commands a higher price here than at any other point in the county. CHAPTER XVIL CHUROHES. Every shade of religious opinion and beUef is repre- sented, from Roman Catholics to Latter-Day Saints. As stated in another chapter, the first gospel sermon preached was by a rep resenta live of the M. E. church, at a very early date in the history of the county; and this denomination seems to have been the pioneers in religious organization and work, and are, perhaps, more widely diffused than any other in this county. Methodist Episcopal Church, Belleville, Kansas. History of Republic County. 195 The tirst to organize was the M. E. church in Grant township, known as the Fairview church, during the latter part of the year 1870, and the meeting house was built in the summer of 1872, being the first house of worship erected in the county. Rev. E. R. Brown was the insti- gator of the enterprise, Thomas Gray being the architect and builder. This house was erected under great disad- vantages, as nearly all the lumber was hauled from Water- ville. This building is on the farm of A. W. Way and has been used by him for several years as a barn. In 1885 the Evangelical society erected a tine house of worship in Wayne at a cost of about $2600, and it was dedicated as an Evangelical church, but it was also used by the Metho- dists, who a few years ago purchased the house and now own and occupy it as a place of worship. Preaching once in two weeks, Rev. Mann being the pastor. I am indebted to Mr. John Pulcomer for the following highly interesting historical sketch of the M. E church at Belleville: THE BELLEVILLE M. E. CHURCH. In reviewing the proceedings of the church from its infancy, which is nearly all within the last quarter of a century — that being just the time that has elapsed since the issuing of the charter of its incorporation — Methodis- tic aggressiveness is clearly visible in all the enterprises that tend to the elevation and eternal welfare of mankind. And to this rule the pioneer settlers of Republic and ad- joining counties were no exception, when we remember that not many ages have passed since this vast domain was considered as being a worthless and barren waste, but by the heroic efforts of the people who, by their per sistence and the use of brain and muscle have caused it to blossom as the rose, at the same lime remembering the source of all blessings. So in order that they might the more acceptably worship God they banded themselves to- gether in Christian fellowship and commenced the holding 196 History of Kc public County. of religious services. The names of the persons thus unit- ing in the years of 3 870 and 71 were in part as follows: R. P. Cheney and wife, J. F. Wells and wife, James S. Price and wife, R. P. West and wife, G. A. Hovey and wife, S. K. Waterson and wife, W. P. Compton and wife, H. B. Buck and wife, Ezra Mackey and wife, J. P. Ball and wife, Charles Counter and wife, Wm. Bond and wife, J. Beers and wife, John Watson and wife, Mrs. Annie S. Humphrey, Samuel Thompson and wife, Mrs. J. G. Rich, Mrs. W. S. Latham, James Anderson and J. Pulcomer and wife. The tirst services held in the city of Belleville, accord- ing to the best recollection of persons now living here, were held in the log court house the day after the roof was put on. The dimensions of this building were about 16x18 feet, one story high. The sermon on that occasion was preached by Rev. J. W. Reynolds, of the U. B church, and the first Methodist Episcopal sermon was preached by R. P. West a week or two later, which was followed shortly after by Dr. Griffith, Christian, and Rev. Odell of the Cumberland Presbyterian persuasion. The records show that in the year A. D. 1871 Belle- ville was embraced in the Lake Sibley and Concordia cir- cuit and Manhattan district. It also shows that the preaching points embraced in this circuit were Lake Sib- ley, Concordia, Norway, Belleville, Pairview, Rose Creek, White Rock, and all the region lying beyond, which, to my mind, leaves the western boundary very indefinite. The first quarterly conference ever held in Belleville was on May 27th, 1871, with Presiding Elder G. S. Dear- born officiating and Rev. Preem preacher in charge. Jas. S. Price was appointed secretary ; others named as being present at said first quarterly conference were R. P. West? R. P. Cheney, W. ¥. Compton and G. A. Hovey. There was also ^ippointed at that conference a committee on church building consisting of J. P. W^ells, R. P. West, S. K. Waterson and J. S. Price. And the Presiding Hisfoiy of Republic County. 197 Elder was requested to send a young man to the work who would make his headquarters at Belleville. This implies a resignation on the part of the pastor, and it is claimed that this young preacher, though a college grad- uate, gave as a reason the cause of his resignation "that there was too much intelligence in 'this neck o' the wood." Admitting that to be the fact, is it any wonder that Belle- ville has gained the very unenviable reputation of sending away a great per cent of her preachers long before the ex- piration of their term ? It is also very evident that in the early history of the church the ladies were considered an important factor in the onward march of Methodism, as has been demonstrated by the first committee ever ap- pointed, on missions, which was by a Quarterly Confer- ence, held on January 18th, 1872, consisting of Mesdames Latham and Price, for Belleville, Mrs. Hovey, for Rose Creek, Mesdames Fisher and Persinger, for White Rock, Mrs. McCathron, for Norway, Mrs. Bean for Concordia, and on tracts, Mesdames Price, West, Cheney, Raymond, Smith, Silvers, and Scribner. The said quarterly confer- ence also appointed a committee to secure a charter for the legal organization of the church at Belleville, said com- mittee consisting of the following named persons, viz., I. T. Hull, Jas. Wood, Waterson, West, Compton, and Price. It was also ordered that the circuit be divided so as to cre- ate a new one, to be known as the Belleville circuit. A committee consisting of the pastor. Rev. Nicholson, Hull and Sprague were appointed to establish the boundary line between the Concordia and Belleville circuits. Under the pastorate of Rev. James Walters in the summer of 1872, a parsonage was built at Belleville, the total cost of which was about $400. Early in January, 1873, application was made to the state for a charter of incorporation of the Methodist Episcopal church at Belleville, in which docu- ment the following names occur: Charles H. Smith, Ed. E. Chapman, W. S. Chapman, J. F. Wells, S. K. Waterson, James Price, G. A. Hovey, R. S. A. Tar bell and Albert 198 History of Republic County. Myers, and on the second day of May, 1873, a charter was issued, signed by W. N. Sraallwood, secretary of the state. Under the careful management and heroic efforts to more thoroughly estabhsh Methodism in Belleville, the Rev. J. T. Shackelford and his staff, which consisted in part of such persons as James VanAkin, J. E. McCuUough, W. Bond, W. G. McBride, Samuel Thompson, J. N. Sny- der, and James Swan, whose names had not occurred in the preceeding allusions of this sketch, the erection of a church edifice was contemplated. This was in the sum- mer of 1873, after a very noted revival held in the frame court house on the north side of the square in the latter part of December, 1872, and the early days of 1873, con- ducted by Rev. J. T. Shackelford, assisted by Rev. Jones, pastor of the Presbyterian church. It will be remembered that up to and for some ti me after this date no chu rch organ- ization represented in Belleville had a building of its own in which to worship. Thus, under the pastoral manage- ment of Rev. J. T. Shackelford, the erection of the first church edifice of Belleville was commenced, near thecloseof the year, 1873, being completed some time during the sum- mer of 1874, and was dedicated on the 17th day of October, 1875, the sermon being preached by the Rev. C. Holman. There were present Rev. James Lawrence, P. E., Rev. Gray, pastor. Rev. George Winterbourn, pastor at Cuba, also Revs. Jones and Odell of the Presbyterian churches. The cost of this church was about $2,000. The Presbyter- ian congregation, not having any house of worship of their own, used the M. E. church every alternate Sabbath dur- ing the first year after its completion. And the Rev. Joy Bishop, Universalist, who resided at Delphos, Kansas, and traveled the entire distance on horse back, also preached in the M. E. church once in four weeks. In its struggle for existence during and shortly after the memorable year of 1874, known as the grasshopper year, Methodism, in order to hold the fort and more fully establish her bor- ders, found it necessary to take up some new appoint History of Republic County. 199 ments. Hence there were added to the Belleville circuit Union Valley and Washington and later still, Beauchamp and Scandia. The first M. E. Sabbath school organized in Belleville was in the new church in the spring of 1875, with J. Pulcomer as superintendent, all previous ones be- ing, undenominational or union in sentiment. The first ladies' organization was known as the Mite Society and was organized prior to 1876. The first Sabbath school organized into a missionary society on Belleville circuit was in 1878, and as time rolled on and the wealth of the church increased and other names were annually added to its membership, it was found necessary to commence the pruning process by lopping oflf some of its outside appointments. Fairview being the first, which was added to the Seapo circuit in 1877, and Washington, was set out the same year. Union Valley was dropped in 1880 and Scandia which was appor- tioned §25 per year on the pastor's salary, was set out in 1881, and in the spring of 1884, the Beauchamp appoint- ment was discontinued by request of its membership, thus leaving Belleville circuit with but two outside appoint- ments. Spring Hill was attached in 1886 to Rose Creek circuit, and Belleville was declared a station, which was more in name than practice, as the Grace Hill appointment was not dropped for several years thereafter. The charter of the Epworth League organized at Belleville bears as date of issue June 8th, 1890. In the years of 1890-91 it became evident that the old church building was inadequate for the accommodation of its congregation, the natural result was the agitation of the project of building a new and more commodious one, which in the summer of 1893, under the labors of the irrepressible pastor. Rev. D. A. Allen, was commen- ced with the understanding that its cost would reach $5000. The erection of this church was crowded to its completion with all possible speed, which was accomplish- 200 History of Republic County. ed by the middle of January, 1898. On investigatioa it was ascertained that about $3,500 was not yet provided for, thus it became necessary to ask for pledges covering the amount before any further steps could be taken in the line of dedication. And Bishop Warren with his very earnest appeals to the people during the morning and early evening services succeeded in getting pledges to the amount asked for and immediately proceeded with the dedication services, being assisted by Rev. E. P. Michener, P. E., and Rev. D. A. Allen, pastor, thus ended the dedica- tion services of January 15, 1893. And all hearts were aglow with bright anticipations of the future of Belleville, realizing that a great work was accomplished for God and the church. But lo, the scene was soon changed when in midsummer the clouds withheld their rain and south winds began to blow and the corn tassels were withered and the ears hung down by the sides of the stalks. Men's hearts began to fail; the condition of pledges were not com- plied with; interest was accruing every day on the debt. The board of trustees heroically stood shoulder to shoulder, each one becoming personally responsible for the whole amount. Thus having been tried as b}'^ fire we have now entered upon a new era. The early and the later rains have descended in copious showers; the husbandman reaping such a harvest as has hitherto been unequaled; prosperity has returned; the dark clouds, which for three long years hung as a harbinger of despair over our little city have disappeared, and the glorious sun of righteous- ness has arisen with healing for the nations. So is it any wonder that with the uplifted eye of faith, men and wo men are heard every week in the prayer circle crying for a hundred souls in Belleville for God and the church. Who can estimate the value of, or what will a man give in exchange for his soul. Following are the names of all the Presiding Elders and Pastors since the organization of the church, in their regular order: History of Republic Countv. 201 PRESIDING ELDERS. G. S. Dearborn, C. L. Shackelford, James Lawrence, E. P. Michener, W. J. Mitchell, F. D. Baker, J. H. Lock wood. PASTORS. Rev. Freem the fore part of 1871 G. E. Nicholson latter part of 1871, to March, 1872 J. .T. Walters March, 1872, to April, 1873 .7 F. Shackelford April, 1873, to April, 1874 T. B. Gray April, 1874, to March, 1876 C. B. Crysler March, 1876, to March 1877 Geo. Winterborn March, 1877, to March, 1879 W. B. Holland March, 1879, to March, 1882 R. A. Hoffman March, 1882, to March, 1885 .T. F. Shackelford March, 1885, to March, 1887 (i. W. Wood March, 1887 to March, 1888 W. T. Robinson March, 1888, to August, 1888 C. T. Shackelford August, 1888, to March, 1891 W. H. Pierce March, 1891 to September, 1891 D. A. Allen October, 1891. to October, 1893 D. McGurk October, 1893, to March, 1894 O. L. Housel April, 1894, to April, 1895 W. L. Cannon April, 1895, to April, 1897 E. L. Hutchins April, 1897, to April. 1901 PROVIDENCE CHAPEL. Situated on the southeast corner of section 25, Scan- dia township; was built in September, 1892, under some- what peculiar circumstances, inasmuch as there was at that time, but one professional member of the Methodist church in the neighborhood, that being Mr. Henry Ful- comer, and it was through his suggestion the project of building a church was taken into consideration. Upon his interviewing the neighbors, it was found that although a large majority of them were members of no church, all of them were God-fearing men and women who readily acquiesced in his suggestion to erect a church, conse- quently a meeting was held at Red Top school house and all that were interested were invited to attend. Rev. Al- 202 History of Republic County. len, at that time the Methodist minister at Belleville, was consulted and readily offered his assistance, and was there to preside at the meeting, giving a preliminary discourse from the text found in John, 1-4(5: "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" He evidently thought that be- cause there were no members in the vicinity, he was jus- tified in making the comparison. After the sermon the business part was taken up and Mr. Fulcomer chose the present location, which was not objected to by any one. The site being on the southeast corner of Mr. Brady Bow- ling's farm, that gentleman arose and offered to donate one acre of ground as his share towards the church. The site being thus secured, subscriptions were next in order, and before the meeting closed enough money and labor had been subscribed to insure it safe to go ahead and build. Thereupon a building committee composed of George Bowling, Mose Bushby and Henry Fulcomer was chosen and instructed to proceed to collect the money and have the building erected, which was done without delay, at a cost of $1,020; $600 of which was collected in cash, the balance in labor and material. As soon as it was fin- ished Rev. Allen notified Presiding Elder Michener of the Concordia district that it was ready for dedication, where- upon the Elder came up and conducted the dedicatory ser- vices, assisted by Rev. Allen, who also made arrange- ments with the Elder to have it attached to the Scandia circuit. Rev. Ryan having charge of that circuit at that time, was the first to hold regular services in the chapel, but was removed from Scandia the following spring and Rev. Jenkins assigned to the charge. He proved to be a good sermonizer and was held in high esteem by the Chap- el people, and through his instrumentality several con- verts were added to the one mentioned at the beginning. However, Rev. Jenkins only remained at Scandia one year and was followed by J. I. Osman, who did some hard work both at the Chapel and at Scandia, and was successful in adding some fifteen or twenty converts, besides six or History of Republic County. 203 eight who joined by letter, giving them a membership of twenty -live or thirty, who, strange as it may seem, every one of them have remained steadfast in the faith up to the present time. Rev. Osman remained on the circuit two years, and was succeeded by Rev. J. E. Elwell, a bright young man, an elegant speaker, and, although a good ser- monizer and an earnest worker while in the pulpit, his so- cial life was not up to what some of his members deemed the standard, consequently he was removed from Seandia at the end of his tirst year. Several members were added to the organization through his efforts at the Chapel. Next came Rev. Nichols a stranger who had just been transferred to this conference, but proved to be a failure as a minister of the gospel and gave up the appointment before the first year expired. W. W. Wells, now of Belleville, was our next minister, and gave fair satisfac- tion, and won the respect and admiration of the Chapel people for his kind disposition, largeness of heart, readj" to do good at every opportunity. He, too, at his owm re- quest, remained on the charge but one year, and was fol- lowed by Rev. James Kerr, a man of considerable exper- ience, having passed the middle mile stone of life, but still retains a strong, loud voice while speaking from the pulpit. He alw^ays seems to have words at his command. This makes his third year on this charge. The organi- zation at the Chapel now consists of forty or more mem- bers in good standing who have one of the best attended Sunday Schools in the county, the old people as well as the young attending regularly the year around. They al- so have preaching every Sunday alternately morning and evening. Providence Chapel is now known far and wide and its people have the reputation of being courteous, well behaved, and under all circumstances maintaining perfect order, even when crowded to its utmost capacity. Miss Howard, county superintendent, has held several commencement exercises at the Chapel and made the statement at the last one, May 7, litOl, that of ail the ex- 204 History of Republic Countv. ereises she has licld in the couiity, bettor order has bene maintained at the Chajiel than at any other phice in the county. So it seems after all, that some good did really come out of Nazareth, and if Rev. Allen should ever visit the Chapel neighborhood, he will find a nice little band of humble followers of the lowly Nazarene. KACKLEY M. E. CHURCH. A church was built by subscription at Kackley in 1892, at a cost of about $700, and was dedicated by the Pente- cost. This church has recently passed into the hands and under the control of the Methodists, and forms a part of the Courtland charge. Preaching once in two weeks. AGENDA M. E. CHURCH. The Agenda M. E. church was chartered August 29th, 1891, with A. R. Dillehay, W. J. Clark, M. Kenney, Geo. W. Smith and Stephen Bradley as charter members. The tirst pastor of this church was Rev. D. A. Allen, before the present building was erected and while the meetings were being held in the school house. The church was built the latter part of 1892 and the spring of 1893, at a. cost of about $1,800. Was dedicated in July, 1893, by Rev. E. P. Michener. Sunday school every Sunday and jjreach ing once in two weeks. SPRING HILL M. E. t^HURCH. In the spring of 1892 the Spring Hill Society of the M. E. church, which had regularly held services in the Spring Hill School House (District No. 43) since 1873, decided to build a church. Accordingly, a regular or- ganization was effected, a charter procured and a society incorporated. A subscription paper was circulated, the community generously responded and in a short time a sufficient amount was subscribed to erect a commodious church. A site was selected on the southwest corner of History of Republic County. 205 A. M. Bond's farm, on the SW I of section eleven, Free- dom township. In December the building was completed and dedicated, with Rev. M. J. Baily as pastor and Rev. E. P. Michener as presiding elder. The cost of the church was about $1,300. Services have been held week- ly since the erection of the church, and the present pas- tor is Rev. M. O. Moyer. MUNDEN BETHEL M. E. CHURCH. The Bethel M. E. church at Munden, was commenced in the fall of 1884, and finished early in the winter of that year. The house is 28x45 feet with a 20-foot ceiling, and cost ^2,000. It stood on the southwest corner of the SE -^ of section three, town two south, range two west, land owned by Joseph Northrup, a pioneer settler of that town- ship, and to whose untiring and well-directed efforts the building of this church was made possible, he having con- tributed in time, labor and money, far more than any per- son connected with it. At the time it was built, it was probably the best house of worship in Republic county. The building was dedicated December 28th, 1884, by Rev. B. D. Fisher, assisted by Rev. C. L. Shackelford and Rev. J. H. Lockwood. The house was moved to Munden in the summer of 1888, and a parsonage built soon after. Rev. M. J. Bailey was the first resident pastor. The following have been pastors of this church: A. N. See, S. Brooks, George Winterborn, J. W. H. Williams, Don A. Allen, Jos- eph. M. Ryan, B. F. Rhoades, M. J. Bailey, G. W. Burch, W. Vandervoort and M. O. Moyer, the latter being the present pastor. The present membership is forty-four. COUKTLAND M. E. CHURCH. The Methodist Episcopal church, of Courtland, Kan- sas, was organized in the year 1888, on the 25th day of November, by James Flowers, who at that time lived at "White Rock. The class began with a small membership and, like all churches, has had its time of adversity and also of prosperity. In the year 1893 the present house of 206 History of RepiiNic County. worsliii) was erected. It is a neat and coniiuodious Iniild in^, conveniently located on the west side of Main street. The entire cost, including the furnishing, was about $2,200. The first class leader was Nathan Pilcher, better known as Father Pilcher, w^ho, after a faithful service of two years, w^ent to his reward. The church has been served in succession by the following pastors : James PlowTn-s, George T. Rarick, W. S. Sedore, S. A. Greene, M. J. Bailey, James Flowers, Rev. Wright, J. Ramsey, B. F. Hutchins, J. H. Brown and W. A. Pierce, the last named being the present pastor. The present member- ship of the class at Courtland is forty-five. It has had at different times the following outlying classes attached to it: White Rock, Lincoln and Kackley. The last two named belong to the Courtland charge at the present time. CUBA M. E. CHURCH. In the spring of 1890, the annual conference of the M. E. church decided to take up Cuba as a work, and a class was accordingly organized there under the ministry of D. A. Allen, who continued as its pastor until October, 1891, when he was transferred to Belleville. Rev. E. G. Alderman was appointed to fill out the unexpired term. Since that time G. L. Rarick, E. Price, W. E. Jenkins, L. B. Tremain, and N. S. Ragle have successively served as its pastors, Rev. N. S. Ragle being the pastor present. While D. A. Allen was pastor, a lot was purchased and a house erected for use as a parsonage, which, however, was not entirely cleared of debt until 1898. Rev. L. B. Tre- main served the longest pastorate — four years. During his service the old Free Will Baptist church was bought and repaired and made free of debt. It was made ready for use January 1, 1899, at which time also our first Sun- day school was organized, which is still prospering, with a membership of about seventy-five. Among the first members of this class were Mr. and Mrs. John Harris and Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Ingham, Avho are still mem- History of Republic County. 207 bers of the same. The present membership is about thirty. PLEASANT VIEW M. E. CHURCH. In the summer of 1892 it came into the hearts of the Methodist people of the Beau champ and Star classes to unite and by their joint efforts erect a suitable house of worship, these two classes belonging to the Munden charge which forms a part of the Northwest Kansas Con- ference. The church building was dedicated to the Lord February 26, 1893, by Rev. E. P. Michener. Presiding Elder. The Rev. M. J. Bailey was the pastor at the time the church was built and dedicated. The cost of the building was $2400. The following are the trustees : D. A. Zech, President : R.M. Vaughn, Secretary; John Moss- hart, Treasurer; Wm. E. Whitney, Welden Worrel, C. C. Ball, G. S. Wells, E. C. Carson, C. L. Porter. THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH AT SCANDIA. Owing to the fact that the records of the Methodist church at this place were lost a few years ago, it is im- possible to give a complete history. The church was or- ganized in 1883. The trustees were, C. G. Bulkley, S. Albro, W. O. Boots and two others. Dr. J. H. Lockwood, who was Presiding Elder at that time writes as follows : "It would be impossible for me to write a correct sketch of the Scandia church. It has been too long, and I have no record to refer to. I think Bro. Albro could come as near giving you the facts as any man I know of. I was the Presiding Elder when the appointment was really estabhshed. I have a very distinct recollection of Bro. Albro, who then as now was upon the streets with his dray, stopping me on the streets as I was driving through from Beloit to Belleville and saying, as he held my horses by the bits, 'When are you going to send us a preacher?' I sent Bro. Hollen. G. H. Woodward fol- lowed him. While Bro. Woodward was pastor, the church was bought from old Father Marks, of Reynolds, Neb. I 208 History of Republic County. met him on the road between Scandia and Belleville. We did not know each other, but we introduced ourselves and I bought the church before we parted, and Brother Wood- ward completed the contract. The church was enlarged while Bro. J. O. Osman was pastor. I dedicated the church. I cannot give you all the pastors during these years. Before the church was bought we held our ser vices in the Presbyterian church when it was on the hill." The church was rebuilt and enlarged to its present handsome proportions in 1894. This was the year that Rev. Henry Williams conducted his celebrated revival here. The meetings were held at first in the old church, but speedily outgrew the room and were transferred to the city hall. Since the church was enlarged the pastors have been: 1894-5, Rev. J. O. Osman; 1896, Rev. C. S. El- well; 1897, Rev. W. W. Wells; 1898, Rev. A. A. Nichols; 1899, Rev. James Kerr, who is now in the pulpit. NARKA M. E. CHURCH. The Narka M. E. church was organized in the District school house in 1881, with twelve members. Organized by D. A. Allen. Church was built in 1893 and dedicated in February, 1894, by Rev. E. P. Michener, assisted by Rev. Sedore, the pastor. The cost of the church building was $2,250. The present membership is about eighty. The present pastor is G. P. Miller. Sunday school organ- ized about the same time and has been kept up continuous- ly ever since, and is well attended. WAYNE SWEDISH M. E. CHURCH. The Swedish M. E. church at Wayne, was organized May 17th, 1878. A house of worshij^ was built on the southeast corner of the SW i of section 9, town 4, range 2, in 1882. The church site contains one and one-half acres of land. Rose Hill cemetery, belonging to this church, comprising about two acres of land, is located in section 17, in the same township. Services have been held regularly once a week until the present season. History of Republic County. 209 Preaching only once a month now, Rev. Oscar J. Shaw pastor; membership forty. RICHLAND METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH. The Methodist Protestant church in Richland town- ship is located near the southeast corner of the SE \ of sec- tion 25. The house was built during the winter of 1900 and 1901, is 26x36 feet and cost $500. It was dedicated in January, 1901, by Rev, Shepherd, assisted by Rev. Green, the pastor. Preaching every two weeks. A Sunday school, has been organized in connection with the church which is doing well. The congregation is made up of members from both Washington and Republic counties. The church membership is not large, but the meetings are well attended. BELLEVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The first Presbyterian church of Belleville was organ- ized in May 1873. The foundation of the church building was laid by William Phelps of Prairie Home in September and October 1874. I. O. Savage was treasurer of the board of trustees until the completion and dedication of the house. The Belleville Town Site company donated the society the south half of block No. 15 on which to erect a building. Among those who contributed largely in labor I mention Mr. James Taylor, Capt. W. W. Wait and S. T. Collins. Caleb E. Jones was the first pastor and preached during the spring and early summer of 1875 in the M. E. church in Belleville, also had regular appointments at Scotch Plains during that time. At a Congregational meeting held June 20th the fol- lowing church officers were elected: W. W. Wait, ruling elder, S. T. Collins, deacon and Mrs. Charlotte A. Taylor, Mrs. Mary Lawton and Miss Chryssie Kindt as deacones- ses. The first sermon preached in the house was on Aug- ust 17th, 1875, by Rev. Jones. The house was dedicated August 25th by Rev. T. Hill, ably assisted by Rev. Jones, pastor, who served the church three years, was succeeded 210 History of Republic Count}'. by Rev. Laughlin for one year, Rev. Moffatt three years, Rev. Smith one year, Rev. Abram Steed nine and a half years. Rev. Gane one year and the present pastor now in his third year. SCANDIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. "Oh that men should praise the Lord for His good- ness, and His wonderful works to the children of men. Let them exalt Him, also in the congregation of the people, and praise Him in the assembly of the Elders." The Presbytery of Solomon met at Concordia, April 26, 27 and 28, 1877, appointed the following committee to visit the field and organize a church a^. Scandia: Rev. A. D. Laughlin and H. Falbright and Elder A. D)ctoi:". On June 10th, 1877, the committee proceeded to organize a church, consisting of the following members, viz , James Kelley, Mary Kelley, Joseph T. Cooper, Nancy J. Cooper, Mrs. Louisa Whitney, Mrs. Elizabeth F. Laughlin, Ellen F. Laughlin, and Mr. Charley M. Laughlin. James Kel- ley was chosen elder. Services were held in the school house in the western part of town until a church building was erected on the hill in the eastern part of town, ad- joining the present residence of H. S. Cooper. This house of worship was dedicated January 25th, 1880. "For the Lord has chosen the vine." He has desired it for his habitation. In the year 1888 the church building was removed to pres- ent situation on Fourth street and improved. Improve- ment committee was Messrs Hunter, Caldwell, Bulkley, Wilson and Mesdames Louisa Whitney, Caldwell, Donald- son, Bulkley, Kelly, Laughlin, Kerr and McGillivary. The records show that the above named committee was very faithful and zealous, and performed a great amount of work before their labor was finally crowned with success, and the house of worship improved and furnished to meet the requirements of the congregation. "And let the beauty of the Lord, our God, be upon us; and establish thou the zcork of our hands upon us. Yea, the zcork of our hands establish thou it." ^ History of Republic County . 211 Of the members of the original committee there re- main in this field only the following: Mr. and Mrs. Bulk- ley and Miss Louisa Whitney, the others having removed from Scandia. Those now living are nearly all widely separated and are now located, some on the Pacific coast, some in Kansas and some in Georgia. But nearly all hold property interests in Scandia and return from time to time to the scene of their early church work. To say of this committee that their friendship and religious ties, formed in those early days grow stronger as the years pass, would perhaps hardly express their feelings or their deep inter- est in each other and the church work, in which they were instrumental inorganizingandperpetuating all these years. Since the church was organized there has been a succes- sion of ministers as follows: Revs. Laughlin, WoodruiT, McMeekin, Hensh, McGillivery, Maxwell, Philhps, E. P. Shier, H. H. Gain, W. W. Kilpatrick and H. Cooter who now occupies the pulpit. There have been nine elders, two deacons and nine trustees. The records show a mem- bership of eighty-two; of this number eight are deceased and forty-eight have removed from the bounds of the Scandia church, but none are forgotten. " This gospel of the Kingdom shall he preached in all the world for a witness for all nations and then shall the end come." SCOTCH PLAINS PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The Scotch Plains Presbyterian church was organized May llth, 1873, at the Bowling Green school house by Rev. S. G. Clark of the Highland Presbytery with the following named persons as members viz: James Lowden, Hugh Scott, Mrs. Hugh Scott, Mrs. Alexander Maxton, Eliza- beth Donaldson, Mrs. Janett Curry, Mrs. James Kelly, Mrs. Mary Bainbridge, Margaret J. Hamill, R. A. Hamill, Marion Duncan, Ellen Doctor, Margaret McGuire, Janett Doctor, Ann Kerr, E. C. Baker, Helen Chalmers and Cath- erine Hay; at which place meetings were held until 1878 when the place of meeting was changed to the school house 212 History of Republic County. in district No. 35 where it remained until 1885 when a church building was erected on the SW corner of the SWi of section 18, town 3 south, range 3 west, at a cost of 5>1,250, C. E. Jones being the first pastor. Services are held reg- ularly every two weeks, Rev. Kilpatrick being the last pastor. The present membership is 35. A Sabbath school was organized in connection with the church and has been maintained ever since. CONCORDIA UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The Concordia United Presbyterian congregation was organized the first Monday in December 1875. The church is located on the SE corner of section 29 in Lincoln town- ship, the church site containing one and three-fourths acres of land. Had no regular pastor until 1879, the pul- pit up to that time being filled by supjDlies, Rev. Joseph McKelvey being the first. In 1879 Rev. P. D. Patterson became the first called and regularly installed pastor. The meetings were held in the school house in district No. 98 until 1885, when a commodious house of worship was erected. The present pastor is J. P. Stevenson and the membership is 47. CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. The Republican Valley Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian church consisting of congregations in Re- public, Jewell, Washington and Cloud counties was organ- ized at Belleville, November 20th, 1874. Rev. Albert Odell acting as moderator and Rev. G. H. Hawks as clerk. On the election of permanent officers Rev. Odell was chosen clerk and Rev. J. M. Pantier treasurer. The sec- ond meeting of the Presbytery was held at Belleville, June 4th, 1875 at which time Rev. R. P. West united with the Presbytery. At this time the Belleville congregation was the only one represented from Republic county, Rev. A. Odell being the pastor. Steps were taken at this meeting to organize Sabbath schools throughout the entire Presby- tery. Courtland Center congregation was organized in History of Republic County. 213 1877 and the Albion congregation in the spring of 1878, and the Rev. S. M. Hunt appointed pastor which charge he held continuously for four and a half years. He was chosen moderator of the Presbytery August 21st, 1879. West Union congregation, seven miles southeast of Belle- ville was organized in 1881, by Rev. R. P. West. Concord congregation in Albion township was organized by Rev. Hunt in 1887. Minersville was organized in 1888 and Agenda and Seapo in 1889, making seven congregations in Republic county. The Albion and Concord congregations were merged into one and formed what is known as the Narka congregation, which has a fine church building, a handsome parsonage and is free from debt. The congre- gation at Agenda has a good house of worship and is also free from debt. A fine building site has been purchased and paid for at Courtland, but no church has yet been erected. Among the early ministers of the Cumberland Pres- byterian church I mention Revs. A. Odell, G. H. Hawks, R. P. West, S. M. Hunt, Smith McCall, A. Short and P. M. Madden, all residents of Republic county and all preached here during the 70s. GERMAN BAPTIST BRETHREN (DUNKER) CHURCH. In 1871 an organization was effected in Farmington township. This is now known as the east branch of the Belle- ville church. There are now about fifteen members, with Daniel Smith as minister. August 1880 Elder Lemuel Hillery took residence five miles southwest of Belleville on the NW quarter of section 20. In the autumn of the same year the Belleville church was organized at the home of Wm. Gooch with the following charter members: L. Hil- lerj'- and wife, Kate Gooch, Sarah Daggett, Chester Dag- get, Nellie Daggett, Rufus Hillery and wife, Mary Gooch, Carrie Gooch, Susan Wise and Louisa Williams. The membership increased greatly under the care of Elder Hillery. In 1884 A. W. Austin, a minister from Jewell 214 History of Republic County. county, Kansas, took residence in the congregation and rendered assistance. During the autumn of 1884 Elder M. M. Eshelman took charge of the church, remaining until the close of 1887. In this time the membership was com- mendably increased and a commodious house of worship built on the NW quarter of section 20. This house was dedicated by Elder Jacob D. Trostle of Abilene, Kansas, October 25th, 1885, sixteen other ministers being present. The first children's services were held October 25th, 1885, forty bright little ones being present. It was at this time through the efforts of Elder M. M. Eshelman that the first collection, resulting in $71.90, was taken up for the pur- pose of purchasing a farm for Elder C. Hope, who had spent nine years in Denmark as the first foreign mission- ary of the Dunker church. The home was eventually pur- chased for him at Herrington, Kansas. The bible for the church was donated by Elder 'D. N. Workman and wife of Ashland, Ohio. The first love feast was held in the new church October 24th, 1885. On the 29th of December 1886 at a meeting called for that purpose, Albion C. Daggett was elected to the ministry. He is now an ordained Elder and is one of the district evangelists. September 1887 Elder M. M. Eshelman, being identi- fied with the McPherson, Kansas, college, moved to Mc- Pherson, and he was succeeded by Elder C. S. Holsinger who had charge until 1899 when Elder Samuel Henry as- sumed the oversight. There being a need for more minis- terial workers, D. R. Holsinger was chosen to the minis- try in 1894 and is still an efficient worker in the congrega- tion. June 3rd, 1899, C. F. Daggett was elected to the ministry. A large and flourshing Sunday school has been maintained since the erection of the church house. Re- cently through the directions of a committee a thorough canvass by sections was made by sixteen members to en- courage those who attend some Sunday school, and invite those to become attendants who are not identified with the work. Thorough organization and proficient work char- History of Republic County. 215 acterizes the Sunday school efforts of the Pleasant Hill school. At this time the enrollment is 82, teachers 5, col- lections past year ,^28.53, conversions 6. The membership of the church is about 100, with six ministers and six dea- cons and a mission board of three members. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, BELLEVILLE. Orofanized September 28th, 1884. Charter members: Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Haven, Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Beecher, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Andrews and Janet Beecher. Worshipped awhile in Powell's hall and other places. But through earnest endeavor and noble sacrifices a splendid brick edifice was constructed, at a cost of nearly $4,000. It was dedicated January 3j , 1886. A Sunday school was organized Feb- ruary 14th, 1886. The pastors: J. W. Mcintosh September 28, 1884, to July, 1887. J. D. Matthews July, 1887, to September, 1889. Thos Phillips September, 1889, to September, 1890. L. M. Newell November 9th, 1890, to November, 1893. R. N. Martin February, 1894, to February, 1895. Frank L. Rozelle . Supplied a few months in 1895. J. D. Matthews 1895, to February, 1897. C. E. Flanigan February, 1897, to February, 1899. G. M. Adams February, 1899, to August 28, 1900. Lee Boyce Parker February 1st, 1901. Members now, 125. FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF REPUBLIC CITY. On March 23, 1879 the following named persons: Mr. and Mrs. H. R. Sherwood, Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Sherrard, and Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Baxter, Mr. and Mrs. F. E. Thompson, bringing letters from the Otter Creek Bap- tist church in Republic county met in Big Bend town- ship and proceeded to organize the First Baptist church of Big Bend. Their first pastor was Rev. J. C. Thomas, who served until December 1879, when D. H. Babcock be- came pastor. In 1881 J. W. Mcintosh was called to the pastorate and served in that capacity until April 1885. In 1883 it was decided to move the organization to Republic 216 History of Republic County. City and change the name to the First Baptist church of Republic City and to build a church house. The follow- ing trustees were appointed to look after the work of building the new church: P. E. Thompson, Wm. Maguire, H. H. Smith, R. W. PoUey and I. M. Baxter. It was de- cided to locate the building in East Republic. Lots were donated and the work begun. The house was dedicated May 25th, 1884. The cost of building and furniture was $2,000. The pastors of the church since have been: John M. White, 18H5; J. W. Hough, 1890; J. D. Matthews, 1893; John Parley, 1894; E. G. Boyer, 1897; P. L. Cox, 1899; John Melmaker, 1901. In Pebruary of 1897 in the midst of a series of revival meetings the church was totally destroyed by fire. The members felt their loss keenly and at once set about form- ing plans for the erection of a new church house. W. H. Stinson, H. A. Baxter and A. Pogelberg were chosen as a building committee. A larger and better church was planned and it was some time before the actual work on the building could be begun. The work proceeded rapid- ly however and the house was ready for use in Pebruary, 1898, and was completed and ready for dedication in Oc- tober of that year. Present valuation of church property $3,000. Present membership (1901) 79. White Rock Regular Baptist church was organized March 1st, 1872, Rev. L. McDaniel, moderator; A. L. Crouch, clerk, making it one of the oldest religious or- ganizations in Republic county. A suitable church edifice was erected in the summer of 187H. UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH— SCANDIA. The United Brethren church of Scandia was born in a revival in Pebruary and March, 1894. This was the larg- est revival ever held in Scandia and was conducted by Rev. H. H. Williams, who was appointed pastor of Scan- dia mission by Rev. M. R. Myer, presiding elder. In April of 1894 the church was organized with more History of Republic County. 217 than one liundrecl members. Preparations were made to build a church house and the following board of trustees were elected: Geo. L. White, president; L. Cullers, C. W. Gulick, R. A. Heddens, John Garman, A. J. Hollen- beck, Al. Mahan. W. W. Woods was chosen secretary and treasurer. Brothers White, Heddens and Gulick were chosen as building committee. The building was completed in January, 1895, at a cost of $3,000. The main building is fifty by thirty feet, with a wing fourteen by twenty-eight feet. The seating capacity is four hundred. The following pastors have served the church in their order: Rev. H. H.« Williams, two years; Rev. H. Eby, one year; Rev. E. R. Baber, two years; and Rev. P. M. Herrick is pastor at present. The church from the beginning has. maintained a thriving Sunday school of about one hundred enrollment, a Ladies' Aid Soeiety, Young People's Society, Woman's Missionary Society and a large children's band. P. M. Herrick was pastor of this church one year and the pulpit is now occupied by Rev. G. M. Beeler. The Washington United Brethren church was char- tered September 13th, 1892, with the following charter members: David E. Vance, L. E. Stone, Geo. W. Stew- art, Wm. H. Mead and J. W. Brumbaugh. The church was built on the NE corner of the SE i, section 21, town 1, range 4. The meetings were first held at Blue Mound, J. D. Baker first pastor, and Noah Miles, first class leader. This class formed a part of what was known as Republic Mission West Kansas conference, known at first as Blue Mound class and afterward changed to Otterbein class by which name it is now known. This class took steps to build a church in September, 1892, by circulating a subscription paper, $1,693.32 being in a short time sub- scribed. Work was immediately commenced and pushed rapidly to completion, the house being dedicated Febru- ary 12th, 1893. The cost of the building was about $1,800. 218 History of Republic County. The present pastor is George Cavanaugh and the present membership is thirty-seven. ST. isadore's catholic church. St. Isadore's CathoUc church was organized at Cuba in 1878 and a stone church 14x24 was built the same year by Asa "White and James Dorman. The building was en- larged some ten years later by a frame addition 24x40 feet. The church site consists of ten acres of land on which is the preist's residence and a fine well kept cem- etery. The membership consists of twenty families, at present under the charge of Father Dragoun, an able and highly educated man who is very popular with all classes of the community in which he resides. ST. JOSAPHAT catholic CHURCH. St. Josaphat Catholic church, located on the north- east corner of section seven in Freedom township, was organized in 1874 and meetings were held regularly once a month at the residence of John Shemonski until 1883 when a fine church building was erected at a cost of about $1,000. The church site contains three acres of land with a well fenced and carefully kept cemetery. The member- ship consists of 24 families, with services at least once a month by Father Dragoun. ST. GEORGE'S CATHOLIC CHURCH. St. George's church (Catholic) was organized in 1886 and a fine house of worship erected on the southwest corner of section 17, in Fairview township in the summer and fall of 1887. The building is 30x60 feet and cost about $1,500. The building site and cemetery grounds com- prise three acres of land. The membership comprises seventeen families, services being held at least once a month. Father Dragoun in charge. BELLEVILLE CATHOLIC CHURCH. A Catholic church was erected in the Third ward of the city of Belleville in the summer of 1901. The build- t Hisioiy of Republic County. 219 ing is 24x40 feet, is nearly completed, but has not yet been dedicated. The cost of this building has been up to this time about $1,000, exclusive of the lot. OUR savior's evangelical LUTHERAN CHURCH. Our Savior's Evangelical Lutheran church at Nor- way, Kansas, was organized at the home of C. J. Strom- gren, on the NWi of section ten, on the 4th day of Aug- ust, 1872, by the pastors Brun and Andersen and at which R. Lehn presided and R. Rimol was elected secretary. The total membership was 19. The congregation was then somewhat regularly attended by R. C. Chilleene a Swedish minister from Clay Center who held services once a month for nearly two years. During the next two years the congregation had no regular minister, but services were held at different times by J. A. Holl- and from Buffalo Creek, N. Nelson now of Oneonta, and others. In 1876 J. A. Holland became its regular min- ister until 1880 when he resigned. In 1881 H. C. Roernaes was called as minister. A parsonage was built by the congregation in the fall of 1881 but was sold to H. C. Roernaes in 1888. The present church at Norway was built in the spring of 1888 by pop- ular subscription among its members, and others in the neighborhood who contributed liberally. Assistance was also given by the Ladies' Sewing association, who had then been in existence for a number of years. The build- ing of this church was largely due to the earnest and energetic efforts of its minister at that time, H. C. Roer- naes. The corner stone was laid on the 19th day of April, 1888, by Rev. J. E. Maurer, Lutheran minister at Hardy, Nebraska. On the evening of the 26th day of May of the same year, and about two weeks after it had been enclosed and after one service had been held in it, the church was struck by a terrific windstorm and turned over on its roof and the steeple torn completely from the main building. At a cost of some over $200.00 it was put 220 Histoiy of Republic County. back on its foundation and tinally tinisliod. Thtn-c was no insurance on the church at this time. Throuy:h the strenuous effort and influence of Rev. H. C. Roernaes. a loan of $200 was at this time obtained from the "General Synod's Church Extension Fund," which amount was used for seven years without interest. The size of the church is 24x40, belfry 12x12, hei|?ht of spire, 60 feet. Through the praiseworthy efforts of Mrs. Amund Larsen, who superintended the subscription, a bell cost- ing- about $85 was hoisted in the steeple in the spring of 1893. In 1892 Rev. N. Fosseland was called as minister, Rev. H. C. Roernaes having previously retired, and con- tinued as its minister until 1896, Avhen he removed to Iowa, and Rev. N. Holm took his place and is the present incumbent. SWEDISH EVANGELICAL AMANA CHURCH. The Sw^edish Evangelical Amana church in Beaver township was organized in 1873. A fine church building 34x95 w^as erected in 1883 and was at that time the finest church edifice in the country and is yet far above the average. Services are regularly held every Sabbath, Rev. Oden being the resident pastor. In connection with, and composed of members of this church, are the Old La- dies' Society, the Young Ladies' Society and the Lutheran Language Society, all doing effective religious work, and a church choir of about forty members. The present membership is 200. SCANDIA SWEDISH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH. The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran Amana church at Scandia, Kansas, was ' organized in June, 1873. Charter members were thirty-eight. Name of first minister, O. Chilleen. Cost of church completed, $1,000. Present number of members, 130. Name of pastor, C. J. Maxw^ell. SWEDISH METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH. The Swedish Methodist Episcopal church of Scandia was organized 1877. Some of the early settlers in Repub- History of Republic County. 221 lie county were Methodists and a local preacher, Mr. Nels Peterson, was the tirst to hold relig-ious services in the Scandia settlement. At his request there came two min- ist(n's from Clay county, John B. Anderson and Jonas Enj>:strom, who held a series of meetings in February, 1887. Rev. John Linn, Des Moines, Iowa, was presiding elder in charge of the missionary work in Kansas at that time and he also visited the place and perfected the or- ganization. The first members were Nels Peterson and wife, A. M. Swanson and wife, and Mrs. Lysholm, who already belonged to the church from other places. Among those who joined the church at the organization or soon after may be mentioned: P. E. Walen, Olof Olson, An- drew Rosene, A. P. Rosene, H. J. Rosene, A. Westine, Henry Anderson, A. F. Granstedt, A. Johnson and their wives. A substantial church building was erected the same year, 30x50 feet, of stone, and a parsonage was built in 1878. The first preacher in charge was Jonas Eng- strom, but he did not reside in the place. Rev. J. B. An- derson was the first pastor who lived there. He had charge for tw^o years and was succeeded in 1880 by Rev. C. Charmpiist. The present pastor is O. J. Swan and the membership is some over a hundred. Last year the con- gregation, after having put new pews in the church and other improvements, gave to missions and other be- nevolent work S332, besides the current expenses and pastor's salary. This year, 1901, they have built an addi- tion to the parsonage, making it the best in the district. Assisting the pastor in the work is C. J. Peterson as Sun- day school superintendent, Otto Chellberg and A. J. Blom as local preachers, and Johannes Johnson, exhorter. SWEDISH EVANGELICAL MISSION CHURCH. The Swedish Evangelical church in Courtland township dates back about fourteen years, a christian family by the name of Anderson being identified with its early his- tory, by gathering the Swedish people together and urg- 222 History of Republic Coun/y. ing' upon them the importance of Evangelical work. Axel R. Anderson, a son in the above named family being es- pecially active and zealous in establishing the church and who later became the pastor of a church of the same name in Kansas City, Missouri, afterwards pastor of a church at Seattle, Washington, and for the last two years evan- gelist at Cape Nome, Alaska. The meetings of this church were held at first in school houses and family homes until about five years ago a building was secured in Scandia, rebuilt and consecrated to religious worship. Rev. August F. Carlson being in charge of the church for about six months when he moved to Enterprise, Kansas. Rev. J. H. Hanson succeeded him, being in charge over a year. Then for some time the church was without a pastor, but was frequently visited by S. Armqvst as trav- eling evangelist, until June 19(i(), w^ien the Rev. Joseph Esterborg was chosen pastor and is now in charge. After due deliberation it was decided to establish the head of the church near Courtland and to erect a suitable house of worship which was accordingly done, the building be- ing completed in the spring of 1901 at a cost of $2,200, and is one of the neatest and finest looking country churches in the county. To the credit of the American people in the neighborhood it must in justice be said that they contributed liberally to the building fund, about two- thirds of the cost of the building being subscribed by them. Rev. Esterborg gave freely of his time and labor to this enterprise and w^ithout whose valuable assistance it is not probable that the work would have been brought to a successful termination. The church was dedicated June 16th, 1901, over seven hundred people being in at- tendance. CENTRAL CHRISTIAN CHURCH. The Central Christian Church of Belleville w^as or- ganized in January, 1889, in the small hall in the opera house block, by R. L. Downing, an evangelist from West- Hisfoiy of Republic County. 223 moreland, Kansas, who was an active and earnest worker in the church. At first it was distinctively a missionary movement. There were sixteen charter members, namely: A. O. Baldwin and wife, D. B. Perry and wife, C. A. Clark and wife, James McKenzie, Frank and Susie Perry, Mrs. M. J. Watkins, Mrs. E. A. Everts, Mrs. Nellie Rose, Miss Cora Davis and three others whose names do not appear in the record. The first pastor was J. H. Speer, who came from South Haven, Kansas, on the recommendation of the State Missionary board. The first elders were A. O. Baldwin and Charles A. Clark; the first deacons were D. B. Perry and J. W. McKenzie. A meeting was held at the home of A. O. Baldwin in October, 1889, when the first steps toward the erection of a house of worship were taken. Charles A. Clark was chosen president and John Nesmith, secretary. The following members were elected trustees: Charles A. Clark, John Nesmith, J. L. Daniels, J. L. Spillman and A. H. Perry. It w^as then resolved to build a house of worship 24x40 feet and the following members w^ere appointed a building committee: John Nesmith, C. A. Clark and J. L. Spillman. who were di- rected to proceed accordingly. The building was erected in the fall of 1889 on lot 8 of block 41, city of Belleville. This lot w-as purchased by Joseph B. McCune, of Brad- ford, Pennsylvania, for $250 and donated by him to the church as a building site. Mr. McCune during his life was a steadfast friend of this church, often assisting it in afinancial way; donating at one time $100 in payment of a bill for lumber. John Nesmith, chairman of the building committee, received the thanks of the church for the prompt and creditable manner in which his duties were performed. The house, which was begun in October, 1889, was completed and opened for services in January, 1890, The cost of the building, exclusive of the lot, was $1,400. The pastors of the church have been: J. H. Speer, 1890; J. W. Bryant, -24: History of Republic County. 1892; J. R. French, 189^: John L. Stine, 1895; C. Earley, 1896; W. I. Thomas, 1897: W. E. Pitcher, 1898; C. Hen- derson, 1900, all earnest and faithful in their religious work. Especially we mention J. R. French, whose pastor- ate marked an epoch in the history of this church, more than one hundred members being added while he was in charge. He died at the home of F. N. Munger December 10, 1894, deeply regretted by all classes of the communi- ty. The membership of this church February 1, 1901, was 216. CHERRY CREEK CHRISTIAN CHURCH. The Cherry Creek Christian church, located on the northeast corner of section 23, town 2, range 1, was or- ganized by Elder J. C. Griffith, of Belleville, February l")th, 1873. The church site contains li acres of land. The house of worship, was built in 1890 at a cost of $1000. The following are the names of the charter members: David Edwards, Nelson Mapes, William Flint, Sarah Spencer, Cary Mapes, Webster Mapes, A. W. Stone, Sarah Mapes, John E. Edwards, Susan Flint, America Edwards, Mary J. Griswold, Nathan Mapes, Lucy Oliver, Lovina Mapes, Sarah Stone. J. C. Griffith and R. R. VanWinkle have been pas- tors of this church, but at present it has no pastor, but a Bible school is held every Lord's day at 10 a. m. The present membership is 31. CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF COURTLAND. The Christian Church of Courtland was organized in the year 1889 by Elder Pickett, then state evangelist, with a membership of fifteen. Elder Garner the same year held a protracted meeting and made eighteen additions, after which the society gradually grew until it now has a membership of sixty. The present church building was erected about 1893 and is a neat, commodious structure History of Republic County. 225 located in the east part of town. Elder Bryant followed as pastor in 1893 and Elder E. J. Babcock in 1H9j. Elder W. P. Jewett came iii 1896 and remained until the present time. He has but recently moved to Hill City and his place will be filled in the near future. SOCIETY OF FRIENDS. In the spring of 1872 the first Friends' meeting was held by appointment, with fourteen members, at Wm. A. Brown's home on Mill Creek, near Cuba, Republic county, Kansas. Mill Creek preparative meeting and meeting for worship on first and fourth days w^as set up by Tonga- noxie monthly meeting at the home of Isaac Mardock with Abner George clerk for the day of the preparative. The meetings were held from house to house until the sum- mer of 1H77 a log house was built in which they held their meetings until the fall of 1883 the present building was put up, a frame 30x40. John W. Stribbling, of Iowa, holding the first meetings in it. The charter members were Isaac and Nancy Mardock, Nathan and Jemima Bales, Wm. A. and Mary W. Brown, Richard and Joanna Brown, Elkanah and Sallie Mardock and John F. Mardock from Iowa and Indiana yearly meet- ings. At the time of the setting up the preparative meet- ing there were twenty-one members. Through the stead- fastness of these fathers and mothers and the faithful- ness of Elkanah and John F. Mardock, w^ho were chosen vessels of God to watch over and feed the flock, the mem- bership increased till November, 1876, union monthly meet- ing was setup by Spring Dale quarterly meeting, which was held alternate at Mill Creek, Riddle Creek and Peach Creek, the latter now called Dale. Under the ministry of the above named Friends and others of God's servants which came among them, their borders were enlarged and their stakes strengthened, until February, 1879, God saw it proper to remove by death Elkanah Mardock. His last meetings were held at 226 History of Republic County. Mill Creek and many can now say that he was the instru- ment in God's handvS in bringing them to Christ. Just be- fore the close of the meeting he said"that the veil was get- ting very thin between him and God. Oh, if I only knew you would be faithful I would not hate to leave you." After the meetings closed he went home, told his wife that that was as far as he could see, and thought God was going to call him to distant lands or was going to call him home, he thought the latter. He withdrew all of his appointments, "He being dead, yet speaketh." (Hebrew 11-4.) Among our home workers who carried on the work w^ere Townsend Mardock, Steven Hankers and Leah Bales. Wm. P. Haworth, James Kerr and Wm. Harris each labored for a season with them. Lealds Mardock and James Henley too have been efficient ministers. In 1882 they had a membership of 172. In 1886 the number had increased to 351. Owing to the setting up of other meet- ings in Washington county their numbers were reduced in 1887 to 292, in 1892 again they reached 310, by 1897 their numbers were reduced by removals, death andreleasements and a few disowned to 250. At this time the enrollment is the same as in 1882, 172. BOHEMIAN CHURCH, CUBA. The Bohemian church at Cuba was organized in 1876 but meetings had been held at school houses in the neigh- borhood of Tabor prior to that lime. The church was di- vided in 1888, one part remaining at Cuba under the Pres- bytery and the other establishing itself at Munden as an independent Bohemia Reform church, having a pastor of its own and owning its house of worship. The church at Cuba has aline church building, erected in 1890 and dedicated in October 1891 by Rev. V. Pisek of New York. Prank Rundus was the first pastor at Cuba after the church was built, the cost of which was about $1500. The present membership numbers 50. Preaching 5 ^ CO 3 :Sh^ <: 1— f»c ^ <:pV ? i':* j-i -< XI P U Q < J ^ ^H a 'v-^ 3 a 'J?. «Cfi SCiu btS C3 t. ss •30 5 >. «« N « History of Republic County. 227 every Thursday night and every Sunday morning by J. A. Kohout, pastor, under whose able and efficient manage- ment much good is being acompUshed. CHURCH OF CHRIST, WAYNE. The Church of Christ at Wayne was organized by J. H. Speer, September 20th, 1891. Elders James McPar- land and J. C. Morford; Deacons, Solomon McVey and B. P. Bashford; Treasurer, Z. Reeder; clerk, Ida A. White. First pastor, I. T. LeBaron. A store building was soon afterwards purchased and fitted up for a church, where social meetings have been regularly held ever since and preaching most of the time. Present membership 35. CHAPTER XVm. SCHOOLS. The first school house in Republic county was built in 1867, and the first school was taught in the fall of that year by Margaret Tate, a married lady, and oldest daughter of J. G. Tuthill. This was a log house built by Peter Moe, a Swedish pioneer settler, for a dwelling, afterwards pur- chased of him by the early settlers and finished up for a school house, was located on the N^ of the SE^ of section 18, town 3, range 2, now known as Jefferson township. This building was 18x20 feet, 12 feet high at the eaves, roofed with split oak shingles, known in some timbered countries as "shakes, " contained but one room, one door and two windows, was ceiled ov' erhead and had a good board floor, and was, without doubt, the finest and most preten- tious building of any kind in Republic county at that time. In it the first political convention and a few of the first meetings of the board of county commissioners were held, the site of this building having been designated by Gover- 228 History of Republic County. nor Crawford as the temporary county seat. The district where this school was taught was twelve miles long and six miles wide and embraced all the territory occupied by the first settlers in this part of the county. On the divis- ion of this district, for some reason which has never been explained, that part having the first school house and where the first school was taught was named No. 2, and is still so known, and district No. 1 was formed from territory lying next on the south. There has been some little controversy about where the first school was taught, but from the best information obtainable I am satisfied that the above is correct, in fact there is scarcelj'' a reasonable presumption that it can be otherwise. The following is a list of the names of the pupils who attended the first school, some of whom are still residents of this county: George Harris, Sanford Robbins, Andrew Frint, Inez Jackson, Fred Frint, Mary Robbins, Mary M. Frint, Nettie Myers, Elizabeth Frint, Nate Myers, Delia VanNatta, George Myers, Hattie Stout, Eva J^eily. There may have been others but these are all the names I have been able to obtain. Mrs. Tate, the teacher, believed with Solomon in a liberal api^lication of the rod. This statement will be verified by George Harris of Cuba, to whom, by permission I refer in case the reader has any doubt. In this first school house above described, Hon. N. T. VanNatta taught two terms of school; viz, in 1873 and 1874. In the meantime a stone school house had been built on the hill in the same district in which he taught three terms. He was succeeded as teacher by his daughter, Maggie, now the wife of Senator Ward, who taught four terms, and she after a lapse of several years was succeeded by her son, Guy, w^ho taught one term, thus the representatives History of Republic County. 229 of thi-ee generations have been teachers in the same dis- trict and in the same school house. How long this succes- sion is to continue remains to be seen. A school house was built in what is now school district No. 4 in the fall and winter of 1867-68, and a school taught by Miss Viola McBride in the summer of 1868. This school district embraced at that time a territory of nine by fifteen miles and a school population of 18. Among the other schools taught about the same time was one taught in what is now district No. 1, by a Miss Adkins in a part of Captain I. M. Schooley's residence on the NW^ section 7, Grant township, the particulars of which I have been unable to obtain. I am indebted to Mr. J. D. Leigh of Hardy, Nebraska, for the following sketch of the first school taught in Big Bend township. This was in the winter of 1871-72. "The building used for a school house was on John Pecht's claim being the farm recently sold by Judge Hurst and being about three and one-half miles northwest of where Republic now is. 'Twas a 'little log cabin' 10x12 or possi- bly 12x14, built of small cotton- wood logs chinked up and daubed with earth and straw, the straw answering the same purpose hair does in plaster. The building was cov- ered with split poles, brush and straw and also earth. It had a board fioor made of rough cotton-wood lumber, and in the south side of the building there was a hole 12x18 inches to admit light and air and watch for Indians by the parties who occupied the building previous to this time. "After Mr. Pecht bought the claim that had this build- ing upon, he built for himself and family quite a preten- tious house out of hewn logs with a shingle roof, moved into it leaving this smaller building vacant which was se- cured for school purposes. The loop hole was closed up and windows were put into each end by putting in the sash lengthwise, and a board shelf 12 or 14 inches wide was fastened against the wall at each end for the desk, two heavy cotton-wood slabs were secured from the saw mill 230 History of Republic County. at White Rock, out of which seats were made by boring holes and inserting wooden pins for legs. When a pupil wished to use the desk or shelf he had to turn around and sit with his back to the teacher; and there may have been ten pupils enrolled that term. The first thought that would naturally come to us would be that these boys and girls must have been very backward, this being the first term of school ever taught in the township, but they were from the east and had been out of school less than a year. One of them, Harry Lowe, was from the graded school of Lena, Illinois, and in mental arithmetic was a 'cracker.' It was all that I could possibly do to follow him through the long mental problems that he solved most readily, and Will Hill of McHutcheon's family had attended some Cath- olic school in Canada, where he studied French, and was naturally as bright as a star. One day I was hearing him read, it was about Washington's home, he came to the word, 'Potomac,' and stopped. I looked at the word, be- came confused, finally jumped onto it and called it 'Po-to- mack, ' with the accent on the last syllable, and that boy looked up and laughed in the face of as kind a teacher as ever failed to get a certificate, and I saw the confidence in the superior intellectual ability of his teacher fade away from his bright countenance, and I knew something had to be done, and that 'quick too. so I said: Young man, all proper names are either herbiverous or corniverous and may be effervescent or suffruetescent and are subject to bifercation, and the accent is always on the ante-peanut syllable, if it was not somewhere else, and it was hard to tell always whether they were roasted or raw, and that in this case I believed 'Po-to mack' was a little raw. And I had him squelched and held his confidence and respect for the balance of the term of three months, for which I re- ceived $25 per month. I say it without boasting or fear of contradiction that it was the best school that had been taught in the township up to that time, and there was not a pen or pencil tablet within fifty miles of us." History of Republic County. 231 Other pioneer schools are referred to in the chapter on Townships, all of which clearly indicates that the early- settlers of Republic county were not only interested in securing homes for themselves and families, but used all the means at their command to secure educational advan- tages for their children. And, kind reader, do not for one moment imagine that because these primitive conditions existed that there were no good teachers or bright pupils in those days, for there were as thoroughly well qualified teachers in Republic county in the early 70s as there has been at any time since; some of them holding state, and several holding first grade certificates, among whom I mention: N. T. VanNatta, David C. Gamble, R. H. Galloway, E. W. Wagener, J. C. Price, H. O. Studley, Miss Clara Jones, Lou Arbutnot, Cordelia Bradley, Clara Tur- ner and Mrs. Eliza G. Latham. I am indebted to Mr. E. E. Baird, our gentlemanly county superintendent, for the following highly interest- ing sketch of the present conditions of the schools of the county: "Republic county has one hundred and twenty- six organized school districts, one hundred and twenty-one of which lie entirely within its boundaries, and five of which are joint districts — Joint No. 1, Republic and Jewell counties; Joint No. 1, Republic and Cloud counties; Joint No. 1, Republic, Cloud and Washington counties; Joint No. 2, Republic, Cloud and Washington counties; and Joint No. 1, Republic and Washington counties. One hundred and forty-eight teachers are required to teach these schools. The school population at this time is 6,541, with an enrollment for last year of 5,478 pupils. The districts having the largest school population are No. 14, with 712; No. 6, with 268; and No. Ill, with 214. These districts in- clude the cities of Belleville, Scandia and Cuba respectively. •'To maintain our schools requires an expenditure of nearly S60,000 annually. Of this amount $40,250 is paid for teachers' wages. The average salary per month paid to male teachers being $40.37 and to female teachers $34.77. 232 History of Republic County. The school districts are now comparatively free from debt, the bonded indebtedness at present being only $15,350. "For the better preparation of teachers the county nor- mal institute is held at Belleville four weeks each year, as has been the custom since the law was enacted providing for institutes. The largest institute ever held was in the year 1899, when 226 bona fide members were in attendance. This was the largest institute held in the state that year. "The Republic County Educational Association is a permanent organization of the teachers of the county for the mutual benefit of the teachers and for the promotion of education. Seven sessions are held annually at the var- ious cities in the county. Each teacher in the county is considered a member and it is his duty to attend, and to take a part in as many of the meetings as possible. "At no time have the schools been in better condition than at present, and at no time has the teaching force been so well prepared for the work of the profession. Even district schools are graded and a definite course of study is followed. A system of graduation from the common schools at the completion of the eighth grade work has been in vogue since 1892. The number of graduates for the different years is as follows: 1892, 15; 1893, 21; 1894, 117; 1895, 113; 1896, 113; 1897, 40; 1898, 69; 1899, 59; 1900, 74; 1901, 88; total 709. Each year commencement exercises are held at convenient places in the county. Each gradu- ate delivers an essay or an oration of his own preparation. Representatives of each class take part in a central com- mencement held at Belleville at the time of the normal in- stitute. "The teachers' Reading circle has been an impetus toward the reading of professional books by a majority of our teachers, and this has been one means of raising the standard of the profession." Residence of J. C. Humphrey, Belleville City. History of Republic County. 233 CHAPTER XIX. NEWSPAPERS. The Belleville Telescope, the pioneer newspaper of Republic county, was established by James C. Humphrey, in September, 1870, when there were only two buildings on the townsite. The paper was issued regularly for six- teen months, when its publication was discontinued, the last issue being January 19th, 1872. The reason for so do- ing, as briefly stated by Mr. Humphrey in his valedictory, was "to make room for a larger paper, as he had not the capital to enlarge to such a size as the county demands."' After a lapse of eighteen months he resumed its publica- tion, the first issue being July 3d, 1873, greatly enlarged and improved and fully up to the demands of the town and county at that time, Mr. O. A. A. Gardner assuming editorial management of the agricultural department of the paper, Mr. Humphrey being the editor-in-chief, pro- jorietor and publisher until October 23d, 1884, when the late Mr. E. B.Towle took the place of Mr. Humphrey as edi- tor, remaining in charge of the editorial columns until Sep- tember 29th, 1887, when the paper was sold toE. E. Brain, erd, who took possession October 6th, 1887, having sole con- trol until March 22, 1888, when a partnership was formed with J. W. Shackelford, which continued until November 1st of that year, when the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Brainerd again assuming entire control until September 1st, 1889, when Humphrey and Shackelford purchased the paper, Mr. Shackelford becoming editor, continuing as such until November 14th, 1890, when Mr. Shackelford re- tired, leaving Mr. Humphrey again the sole owner of the paper, remaining so until July, 1900, when he formed a partnership with his daughter, Adela, which continued until July 1st, 1901, when they sold the paper to Mr. A, J. Bayse, who is now conducting the paper. The Telescope 234 History of Republic Countv. has always been republican in politics, has labored earn- estly and persistently for the advancement of the material interests of Belleville, Republic county, and northern Kan- sas. SCANDIA JOURNAL. The paper now published as the Scandia Journal was first published in Belleville under the name Belleville Re- public. The first issue was printed February 7, 1872. For eighteen months it was the only paper in the county, hav ing taken the place of the Telescope, suspended in Janu- ary, 1872. A. B. Wilder was the founder of the paper and was associated with it off and on until 1888. At different times other men were associated with him or bought it from him, but none of them made a success of the busi- ness. During the time Mr. Wilder had the paper it was Independent Republican in politics. Since that time it has been radically republican. Mr. Wilder 's first partner was a Mr. Kirby. From May, 1872, to February 5th, 1873, it was under the editorial control of Hugh M, Sawyer, a scholarly man, afterward a prominent school man in Iowa. May 6th, 1874, it was sold to Frank Kirk and the office re- moved to Jewell Center, re-established under the same name at Belleville August, 1875. The last issue of the Belleville Republic was August 9th, 1876. The next issue came out as the Scandia Republic, Mr. Wilder having moved the plant to Scandia during the week. On January 1st, 1878, the paper was sold to L H. Tibbitts, a Scandia lawyer, who changed the name to the Republic County Journal. Mr. Tibbitts did not become a shining light in the newspaper field and on August 21st of the same year the plant was returned to Mr. Wilder. He now associated with him A. P. Wilber, who remained on the paper until November 15, 1879. At this time it was sold to S. W. Moore, who edited it until June 4, 1881. On this date it was sold to Charles F. Woodward. Mr. Woodward con- tinued in control of the paper until after the tragic death A. B. KIMBALL, Editoi- Scandia Journal and Post- master, Scandia. Kansas. History of Repithlic County. 235 of his brother, Dr. Wm. H. Woodward. On April 29th, 1882, Mr. Wilder again came into possession and continued to wield the editorial pencil until January 1st, 1887. During the month of August, ]885, the Journal was published as a daily, the only daily paper ever published in Republic county. On the first day of January, 1882, Mr. Woodward changed the name from Republic County Journal to Scan- dia Journal, which name it has since borne. From January 1st to October 7th, 1887, George F. Page was editor. On May 18th, 1888, Mr. Wilder sold the Journal to Stoy E. and I. C. Ware and finally severed his connection with news- paper work. The paper was published by Ware & Co., until September, 1890, when Stoy E. Ware was appointed postmaster, and I. C. Ware continued the publication alone. In August 1889 the Journal absorbed the good will and subscription accounts of the Scandia Independent, de- ceased, since which time it has been the only newspaper in Scandia. Mr. Ware retired from the newspaper work December 1st, 1891, being succeeded by George F. Page as editor and proprietor. In September 1892 the plant was burned and was a total loss, there being no insurance. Through the generosity of friends Mr. Page was put on his feet and not an issue was missed. Entirely new equipment was put in and the jDaper became a five-column quarto and one of the handsomest in the state. This form has been re- tained and the paper is now issued with from eight to twelve pages as the business requires. In 1895 Mr. Page contracted the California fever and on March 1st sold the plant to Albert B. Kimball, who has conducted the busi- ness ever since. In his hands the paper has been more of a success, financially than ever before. From time to time material additions have been made to the office, until at this time it is probably the best equipped newspaper and job office, size of town considered, in the state of Kansas. In July 1900, the proprietor bought as a home for it, the two story stone building it now occupies, and last spring 236 History of Republic County. put in an engine so that ail the machinery is run by power. Mr. Kimball has been postmaster at Scandia for the past four years and has the postoffice in the same room as the Journal. SCANDIA SENTINEL AND REPUBLIC CITY NEWS. The Scandia Sentinel was established at Scandia by William H. Ketch urn early in the year 1881. In May of that year Mr. Ketchum found that it would be to his advantage to move his plant to Republic City, which was done, and the name of the paper changed to the Republic County Sentinel. Ketchum was a practical printer and a newspaper man with more than the average ability. His editorials possessed a vigor which made the Sentinel a popular country newspaper. He was a staunch republican and was fearless in his advocacy of republican principles. But like many another — liquor and convivial habits got the better of him and in May 1882 he was forced to suspend publication. He next moved his plant to Table Rock, Ne- braska. The place of publication at the time the Sentinel was first issued in Republic City, was in the top story of a large frame building known as the "Garside Block." Later it was moved into a building which yet remains on the town- site, and on the front of which may be seen to this day the sign "The Repubic County Sentinel." It may be of inter- est to say something of the building itself. It was first built on Rose Creek, for a store, 15 or 16 miles east of where now stands Republic City. Along about 1879 or 1880 it was moved to a site on Otter Creek, on the farm where Mr. John Sumbler now lives, where it contained "a large and complete stock of general merchandise," — it having the prodigous dimensions of 16x24, with a Boston front. Shortly thereafter, when it was determined to have a town on the site of Republic City, the building was once more put on to a truck and moved to "the city," and set down on the corner of Broadway and Repubhc avenue. His/oiy of Republic County. 237 There it was occupied as a drug store where behind its capacious prescription case the earjy denizens of "the city" were wont to slack their thirst with hberal libations of "squirrel whiskey" — "squirrel, "because as soon as two or three drinks were imbeded in a man's frame he wanted to climb a tree, or a telegraph pole, for a lack of a single tree on the townsite. A Kansas zephyr came along one day and blowed the shack down and the badly fractured remains were gathered together and moved "up the avenue" a bit further, to its present site. The Sentinel was moved into the building in the new location and remained there until its early demise, which incident happened, as near as I can remember from the hearsay evidence, before it was yet a year old. The editor and proprietor might have done well, in fact did do well, if he had devoted his time to his business, but he had very little time for that, as he was very busy most of the time "looking for another drink." The town was for some time without a paper. In March, 1883, one Charles HL. Wolfe, learning the necessity of a newspaper at Republic launched the News. He was lacking in all the essential traits and qualifications of a newspaper man, and after six months' experience sold the venture toGomer T. Davies, a native of Wales, the pur- chase price being §150. Gomer developed into a practical and fearless newspaper man, possessing rare qualifications for the work in which he was about to engage, and who made for Republic City, through the medium of the News, a reputation that will live for many years to come. Gomer T. Davies is one of the few men who have in Kansas made a success of a country newspaper. While editor of the News he was twice elected as a republican to represent his district, comprising the north half of Republic county, in the state legislature, sessions of 1887 and 1889. Later he became an earnest advocate of the principles of the popu- list party, and is at the present time the editor and pro- prietor of the Kansan, a paper of state reputation. D. A. Davies, a brother of Gomer, succeeded to the proprietor- 238 History of Republic County. ship of the News in 1897 with George H. Litsinger as edi- tor. After a few months Litsinger severed his connection with the paper to take a course in medicine, and in 1900 graduated at the head of his class of 125, from the Univer- sity Medical college of Kansas City, Missouri. He is now engaged in a successful and lucrative practice at Riley, Kansas. Following D. A. Davies, Tom Charles, a half- brother, became editor and proprietor of the News in 1898. He was ably assisted in the editorial work by his mother, Mrs. Lydia Charles, a woman of rare attainments, and a vigorous writer. Under the management of D. A. Davies and Tom Charles the paper remained populist in principle. In 1900 the paper again changed hands and political policy. It is now owned and edited by Don Patterson who is keep- ing the paper up to the demands of the times and the sat- isfaction of its patrons. Tom Charles has taken charge of the Belleville Freeman and is running a paper of which a much larger town might feel justly proud. In conclusion it is but fair and just to say that the Republic City News has not been at any period of its history altogether obscure in the newspaper world of Kansas, nor is it now. THE BELLEVILLE DEMOCRAT. The Belleville Democrat was established at Belleville, August 1st, 1885, by J. and C. M. McLaury and was pub- lished as a democratic paper for about ten years. Its pub lication was suspended for about one year, while John, the senior member of the firm, was postmaster at Belle- ville. The paper came from Chester, Nebraska, where it had been published about seven months. It was a reliable new^spaper, always taking a lively interest in all measures calculated to promote the best interests of the city and county. THE BELLEVILLE ASTONISHER. The Belleville Astonisher was first issued as a weekly November 24th, 1886. The prospectus stating the objects and giving subscription rates was as follows: "The As- History of Republic County. 239 tonisher is published for the social and financial benefit of the residents of Republic county, Kansas, and also for the benefit of the editor. With the latter object in view the price is six dollars per year. If you do not think it is worth that amount please leave your name with the editor and you will receive it free. W. A. Godard, Editor and Proprietor." Under the last clause of the prospectus quite a large number of our best citizens were induced to become subscribers. This paper was published for some time as a weekly and afterwards as a monthly. It was neutral in politics. REPUBLIC COUNTY FREEMAN. This paper was established in June, 1880, by H. N. Boyd, as a greenback paper, at Logan, Phillips county, Kansas. In October, 1890, at the solicitation of the Re- public County Alliance it was moved to Belleville. During the period from 1880 the paper supported for President, General Weaver twice, Mr. Streeter once, and Mr. Bryan twice. In January 1889 he sold it to the Kimball Publish- ing Company, which again sold it in 1900 to Tom Charles, who is now publishing it as a populist paper and which has the largest circulation of any paper in Republic county. Mr. Boyd mentioned with some pride the fact that during his nineteen years ownership of the paper there were births, deaths and marriages in the family and the paper was moved 120i miles without missing an issue. THE NARKA NEWS. This paper was established by James A. Harris, edi- itor and publisher, the first issue being on June 22nd, 1893. Mr. Harris published the paper about one year when he sold to J. L. Addington, editor and publisher, who made it a spicy and readable paper, weilding considerable inftuence. During most of the time that it was published by Mr. Addington it was a Peoples party organ. After bout six years proprietorship he sold to H. E. Moore, who a 240 History of Republic County. took charge in September, 1900, and who published the same until August, 1901, when he sold to W. H. McCurdy, who is now publishing it as a republican paper. The News during its entire history has been ably edited, its columns always bright and newsy, and a credit to the town in which it has been published. THE TALMO ENTERPRISE. The Talmo Enterprise, a six column weekly, V. D. BuUen, editor and propdetor, was published at Talmo, the first issue being Septeniber 22nd, 1887. This was quite a breezy paper, republican in politics, devoted to the interest of Talmo and vicinity, had quite a liberal advertising pat- ronage, but like many other ventures of a similar charac- ter, died young. THE WARWICK LEADER. The Warwick Leader, republican in politics, was pub- lished at Warwick by J. H. Price in 1885 or 86. THE ADVANCED LEADER. The Advanced Leader also republican, was published at Warwick in 1888. Peter McHutcheon being editor, pub- lisher and proprietor. This paper like many others did not live to an advanced age. THE CUBAN RECORD. The Cuban Record was published at Cuba, commenc- ing in August, 1900 till March, 1901, by L. L. Moon. Re- publican in politics. THE CUBAN UNION. The Cuban Union, a republican paper, was published for a short time at Cuba by T. A. Cordry in 1887 or 1888. THE UNION AND PILOT. The Union and Pilot were merged and formed the Cuba Daylight, which is now being published weekly as a History of Republic Comity. 241 republican paper by Nutter & Novak; is a bright and newsy- local paper and well patronized. THE WHITE ROCK INDEPENDENT. The White Rock Independent, a weekly newspaper, was published at White Rock for about a year in 1877 and 78, by Harlan Taylor, a brother of the late A. E. Taylor, and was what its name indicated, independent in politics. THE WEEKLY RECORD. The Weekly Record, an independent paper was pub- lished at Belleville for a few months in 1883 and '84 by J. M. McAfee. THE REPUBLIC COUNTY CHIEF. The Republic County Chief, a republican paper was published at Scandia in 1884, A. E. Blank, editor and pub- lisher. THE WAYNE REGISTER. The Wayne Register, republican in politics, was pub- lished at Wayne in 1885 and '86, by B. W. Curtis, editor and proprietor. THE CUBAN. The first newspaper at Cuba was The Cuban, pub- lished in the summer of 1885, by John D. Bennett. THE REPUBLIC COUNTY PILOT. The Republic County Pilot was published at Cuba in 1886 and '87 by W. S. Elliott. RepubHcan in politics. THE COURTLAND REGISTER. The Cortland Register, (now Courtland) was estab- lished by F. M. Coffey and the first issue published Feb- uary 2nd, 1889. After about six months J. A. Litsinger was pen pusher. About 1893 H. A. Hoyt came into pos- session of the paper and continued to publish it for five years. On the 1st of May 1898 it came under its present management. This paper has seen its ups and downs. 242 History of Republic County. Twice its suspension has been announced but both times it failed to suspend and now is a money maker. It has had almost as many changes of politics as of editors but is now straight republican. THE CUBA ADVOCATE. The Cuba Advocate, a People's party paper is published weekly at Cuba, John Brown, editor, proprietor and pub- lisher. It is ably edited, has a large circulation and good advertising patronage. THE INDEPENDENT. The Independent, a four page paper, in size about 7x9, possibly a little larger, greenback in politics, was pub- lished in 1875 in the rear of Hart's furniture store in Belle- ville, by W. C. Thornton, commonly known as "Dirty Shirt Thornton," and this paper was pretty nearly, if not quite as dirty as its editor. THE SCANDIA INDEPENDENT. The Scandia Independent, a Democrat newspaper, was published at Scandia in 1888 by Newton and Scott. CHAPTER XX. CENSUS STATISTICS AND A.SSESSED VALUATION FOR 1901. The population of the county was, in 1860 00 1876 8758 1885 17540 1894 16771 1861 5 1877* 1886 18070 1895 16676 1862 13 1878 10132 1887 17539 1896 15658 1863 47 1879 12193 1888 17575 1897 16059 1868 630 1880 14913 1889 17539 1898 17161 1870 1281 1881 13117 1890 19092 1899 17925 1873 7055 1882 14057 1891 17048 1900 18248 1874 8020 1883 14897 1892 16933 1901 18562 1875 8048 1884 16237 1893 17047 * No report for 1877. Hisioiy of Republic County. 243 In 1880 about 1500 laborers employed in building the B. & M. railroad were enumerated by the United States census takers in the townships of Big Bend and Rose Creek, which accounts for the large increase from 1878 to 1880, and the falling off from 1880 to 1881. Census of Republic county by townships and cities for 1900 and 1901: Assessors Government. Townships 1901 Albion 725 Beaver 025 Belleville 663 Big Bend 772 Courtland 724 Elk Creek 757 Fairview 915 Farmington 763 Freedom 667 Grant. 804 Jefferson 649 Liberty 752 Lincoln 709 Norway 724 Richland 881 Rose Creek 742 Scandia 701 Union 740 Washington 776 White Rock 602 Belleville City 1984 Scandia City 601 Cuba City 476 Courtland City 287 Narka City 275 Republic City 248 1900 707 612 658 772 704 757 894 753 667 800 649 747 709 726 877 738 699 740 776 602 1833 598 445 286 258 241 Total 18562 18248 244 History of Republic County cc;p — cc — rj re CO -X" ^- i- !•>■ — c » CI. o ^ oi 1- — .-* cT* oi o -^ X' 00 o o ON >s a o U o 3 GU O o P:< a J3 o (0 ? O 0-" t< 3 S & ^>55. C. •£> CO CO IC r-l ro I-l -^ • _ 28 c: I- '-o to oc .^ i*^ i- t- i-H I5DC005CO •»tC:OT-l — (N » ■ iD OS '-' O OS lO 5D ■ O 00 "^ O — 1 — lO No; OCOt^MMUSlfiOt^ -M — X10M<~-^ IC CO « ^ M 30 —I CC l- CC — 00 t- ^^ O '^l O •* "5 -♦* -v t~ •* -»■ -i X CI =5 !« O ^ P< . 1^3*^ o ^> C3 00 N 5D oooin OOON C. 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OCOOJC — - — — 1 — Ncj--' "~ (MCMOlNlMTlfrlClNM S? ■Q O O OJ O •* Ol C<3 Of CI TO :JJ to " O: T CJ CI CI Cq CJ CI rt 01 ■«■-< . tH-5 a u o eS c3iS ulS O =3 S -O .£ iftOCOX-^XtOOOXCTil^^OS 1— i0;O^^C0-^'*i(5OC0X'^Xt000XCT)l^-^OS loototoc i-oicoosoacocioixcjxoi^cit^ ooos^ro-'jfoW'^toir^oscno'rxireoxo^^ iotooiio»r3-*t'X»reox-*ooic:ioxt^'»Tto « 4) fl -^S • «£l "^ 3 o eS c3 w O'-i o e3 g s S OOO-ttOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO looser-*— i^'MCOWX^OOiO^-^'^'— r-tCCOJ^D OQ©t^CC^aDi0^e0O03O050:t-iCC^CC3SC^ CO 00 »-< • l^ IS fli o as cSm 2; ^-d a « ^ can C 1) > 1) O t» 4) 25 t, i ^2(uajt,.^r-j3a>n(U4,ori3yyct/:. O ^ O History of Republic County. 245 CHAPTER XXL SOLDIERS' REUNION. ORGANIZATION. ETC. A public meeting was held in Belleville November 29th, 187H, for the purpose of making arrangements for holding a reunion of the ex- soldiers of the county, at which time a committee of arrangements was appointed, with instructions to report program, time and place of holding the meeting, etc. The committee reported on the 7th of December, nam- ing December 13th as the time and Belleville the place for holding the same, which report was accepted and adopted. Friday, the 13th, the day set for the reunion, turned out to be the stormiest of the season thus far; the wind being one of those peculiar Kansas zephyrs which, farther east, would be called a high wind, blowing at its best gait all day, and the snow flying so as to render travel- ing well nigh impossible. Notwithstanding all this, some 200 of the "boys," fired by the patriotism still so fresh in their bosoms, managed to be present, besides quite a number of citizens, including many ladies, who so kindly furnished the most bountiful supply of luscious rations, of which there was a large quantity left over. The day was passed in exercises, in drill, speaking, story telling, and drinking genuine soldiers' coffee, etc., all within doors, the weather being too inclement for outdoor exer- cises. The welcome address was delivered by Mayor Wood- ward, who was followed by Mr. Ed. Knowles, H. G. Dow and others. Hon. E. J. Jenkins, of Concordia, who had been expected to speak, expressed his inability to be present in the following sympathetic and patriotic letter: Concordia, December 11th, 1878. IV. H. Woodward, [Mayor, Belleville, Kan.: Dear Sir: Yours of the 7th has just been received. The time between this and the day of your reunion is so 246 History of Republic County. short that it will be impossible for me to arrange to be present. Nothing would afford me more pleasure than to be present at a reunion of the soldiers who defended the republic. During my official career in the Republican land district I have met many gallant fellows among the home- stead settlers who. having done gallant and noble service in the defense of their country, in time of peace exhibit the best evidence of good citizenship by improving and developing the prairies of the west, thus aiding the nation by advancing civilization westward, into the hitherto wild waste of wilderness. Many of them carry as many scars as were upon the person of Coriolanus of old, and I have frequently thought that our government, in the disposition of pubUc lands, has not done as much for the honorably discharged sol- diers as they deserve for their services. I believe every honorably discharged soldier, who fought for the defense of the Union, should have a quarter section of land, free of charge, to be selected from the public lands belonging to the government. If the odd-numbered sections within the limits of grants to the railroad companies, that have been granted to such companies since the close of the war, and during that struggle, had been reserved for and given to the honorably discharged soldiers, their widows and orphans, the government would have done a noble work as a partial compensation to the men whose patriotism and valor saved the government and the nation as a unit, with its escutcheon untarnished. A feeling of sadness comes o'er my mind as I contem- plate the remembrance of the departed who fell in battle, while there is one thought that is consoling, — that they are not forgotten by the true patriots living, while the mystic chord of memory stretches from every battle field and soldier's grave to every hamlet and dwelling place through- out the land. Very Respectfully, E. J. Jenkins. No steps were taken at this time to effect a permanent History of Republic County. 247 organization, but on the 9th day of August, 1879, in pur- suance of previous notice a meeting was held for that pur- pose, at the court-house in Belleville, and a permanent or- ganization effected by the election of the following officers for the ensuing year: President, J. G. McCathron; vice- president. S. A. McKay; secretary, P. F. Grant; treasurer H. G. WaUin. A committee of arrangements was then appointed, viz., J. H. Crane, George Lembke, S. A. McKay, E. C. Baker, Capt. W. W. Wait, and H. C. Swartz. At this meet- ing, it was decided to hold the annual reunion on the public square in Belleville, on September 18th. The following persons were announced as speakers: E. J. Jenkins, Con- cordia; Hon. I. O. Savage, Freedom township; Dr. W. H. Woodward, Belleville; L. C. Hanson, Scandia. The Second annual reunion was held at Belleville, Sep- tember 18th, 1879, and proved to be a perfect success, a more enjoyable affair having never before taken place in Republic county. From 7 a. m. until nearly noon, crowds Hocked in from all parts of the county, until the number reached the neighborhood of 2,000. They were about 500 soldiers present, who were formed into companies, and, under the command of Col. D. C. Gamble and their respec- tive captains, they were drilled add marched, marched and drilled-, until some of the boys cried, "Give us a rest." After dinner, the assembly repaired to the grove on the public square, which had been neatly seated, and where a stand had been erected for the speakers, so as to listen to eloquent and patriotic addresses by Mayor Woodward and others, all of whom were attentively listened to and loudly applauded. The music and singing, by the choir, was excellent; also, the martial music to the White Rock and Cuba martial bands did much to enliven the occasion. Great credit is due Messrs. J. E. Hallowell, J. H. Crane, S. A. McKay, and others of the committee of arrange- ments, for the zealous and earnest manner in which they 248 History of Republic County. worked to make the second soldiers' reunion a grand suc- cess. It was decided to hold the third annual reunion at Belleville on the first Thursday and Friday of September, 1880. The third annual reunion was held on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 14th and 15th, 1880. Gov. St. John and Senator Plumb were advertised to address the meet- ing, but, failing to attend, their places were filled by Col- onel Gamble, Dr. W. H. Woodward, Hon. R. P. West, and others. There were fully 400 soldiers in attendance, and the best of feeling prevailed. The weather was fine, the at- tendance of citizens large, and everything passed off in a most harmonious and satisfactory manner. The fourth annual reunion was held at Belleville, Sep- tember 9th and 10th, 1881. The crowd the second day ex- ceeded by far that of any former gathering in Republic county, and the programme was carried out to the letter. Not less than 3,000 people were in attendance. The fifth annual reunion took place at Belleville, Sep- tember 1st, 1882, and was well attended by the old soldier boys, as well as by citizens generally throughout the coun- ty. Dr. Griffith made the address of welcome to the boys, Thursday forenoon, which was able, interesting and well delivered. The oration delivered by Col. M. M. Miller was a masterly effort, and was listened to with the great- est interest and attention by all present. Captain Dixon was officer of the day, and acquitted himself nobly in the discharge of his duties. This occasion was one long to be remembered by all present. The sixth reunion was held at Belleville September 6th and 7th, 1888. Music was furnished by the K. of P. cornet band from Washington, the band from Republic City and two martial bands. Hon. Wm. Glasgow was president of the day. One of the leading features was the parade of Co. "E," com- posed of soldiers from Freedom and Liberty townships under command of Capt. B. Dutton. History of Republic County. 249 The principal addresses were made by Col. Dan L. Brown, of Concordia, Hon. David Heron, of Mankato, and Col. David C. Gamble, of Seapo. The ''Virginia Veteran" was played to crowded houses both evenings and everybody voted the sixth re- union a decided success. The seventh reunion was held at Belleville Septem- ber :25th and 26th, 1884. Col. D. C. Gamble, president, and Capt. Adam Dixon, officer of the day. Music by the Belleville cornet band, Walker's martial band of Freedom, Mosher's, of Scandia, and Wagener's, of Cuba. Hon. John A. Anderson, our member of congress, was the orator of the day, delivering a very able address, which was followed by a short address by John M. Law- rence. SECOND DAY. Speaking by Rev. R. A. Hoffman, T. M. Noble, E. B. Towle, J. F. Close and others interspersed with music. A recitation by Miss M. O. Davies, entitled "The Irish Veteran's Wife," rendered with pathos and feeling, was warmly applauded by her appreciative hearers. Much credit was due to Colonel Gamble and Captain Dixon for the very able and efficient manner in which they dis- charged their duties on this occasion. The eighth reunion was held at Scandia August 6th and 7th, 1885, and was one of the largest ever held in Re- public county. Although the weather was exceedingly warm, the exercises were highly enjoyed by all. The citizens of Scandia acquitted themselves nobly, doing everything in their power for the comfort and enjoyment of the vast number of veterans in attendance. The inter-state reunion at Beatrice was held the sec- ond week in September, 1885. Republic county was rep- resented there by about 200 veterans, John Brown Post attending practically in a body, carrying the new banner received by the Post September 3d, 1885. This banner 250 History of Republic County. was made of dark blue silk, surrounded by a heavy gold fringe, hung by a gold cord. The front contained a large painting of old John Brown, after whom the Post was named and the finest likeness of him I ever saw, and the lettering John Brown Post, No. 44, Belleville, Kansas, and the letters G. A. R. On the reverse side the grand army badge and the words "Mustered in March 25tli, 1882, Department of Kansas." This was the finest banner in the parade, admired by all and of which the Post justly felt proud. It was de- stroyed by fire November 4th, 1890, when the G. A. R. hall and all its contents were swept aw^ay. The sickness and sudden death of Comrade John M. Thompson while at this reunion cast a gloom over what otherwise would have been a most enjoyable occasion. The boys returned home one day earlier than they had intended on that ac- count. The eight annual reunion, September 9th and 10th, 1887. Weather unfavorable and the attendance light. All the exercises were held in doors, owing to the inclement weather. Addresses by Rev. Geo. W. Wood in the court room, on Friday forenoon, and Gen. J. C. Caldwell in the afternoon. Ex-Governor Geo. T. Anthony spoke on Satur- day. Music of a high class was furnished by the Belle- ville Cornet band and Walker's martial band of Freedom. A broom brigade from Republic City, was also in attendance, composed of young ladies in uniform, under command of Thomas F. Marlatt. Their drill was very fine, and had the weather been pleasant, they could have given a very interesting exhibition. The addresses of General Caldwell and Governor Anthony, on this occasion, were very able, and pleased the soldier boys so well a com mit- tee of three were appointed to draft resolutions expressive of the sense of the association. The resolutions were as follows: Resolved — First, that our asssociation has been very highly favored during the reunion, just held, by having the History oj Republic County. 251 pleasure of listening to the very able and interesting ad- dresses of General J. C. Caldwell and Governor George T. Anothony. Resolved — Second, that to these gentlemen our warm- est thanks are due for the services they have rendered, in adding to the enjoyment and permanent interest of the occasion. Resolved — Third, that we will hold them in grateful remembrance, and cherish the truths they gave us, and will be delighted to have them visit us again, assuring them of a warm and soldierly welcome. George W. Wood, H. O. Studley, I. O. Savage, Committee. Camp John A. Logan, Belleville, Kansas, August 9th, luth and 11th, 1888. This was the largest and most successful reunion ever held by this association. A large number of tents were obtained and pitched in the public square for all who wished to spend the night there, and on Friday night they were all filled. The music was by Walker & Wagener's martial bands combined, a martial band from Concordia, and the Belle- ville K. of P. band. The officers were : H. C. Swartz, colonel; C. H. Hansen, lieutenant colonel; Sam. M. Stew- art, major; W. W. Wait, adjutant. Officers of the day: John R. Bowersox, first day; T. F. Marlatt, second day; John H. Crane, third day. FIRST DAY. Address of welcome by H. O. Studley and address by Rev. Don A. Allen. Camp fire at night when short ad- dresses were made by several comrades. second day. Hon. Lewis Hanback, of Osborne county, delivered an able address in the forenoon and Rev. Geo. W. Wood, of Guthrie Center, Iowa, in the afternoon. 252 History of Republic County. THIKD DAY. In the forenoon Col. John W. Foster dehvered the principal address. In the afternoon a sham battle was fought in the open field west of the city, C. N. Hansen, colonel, commanding the Union forces, and Colonel James Smith commanding the Confederate forces. The boys labored under disadvantages in not having enough guns, and the few they had were muzzle loaders, consequently the firing was neither heavy nor rapid. Of course the Union forces were victorious and marched triumphantly back to town with the whole Confederate army as prison- ers. Taking everything into consideration, this was the most complete success of any celebration of the kind ever held in the county. The weather was exceptionally fine and the attendance the largest ever known in Belleville up to that time. It was estimated by good judges that on Saturday there were at least 6,000 people in attendance. Seventeen states were represented by ex-soldiers, Illinois having sixty- six, being the largest number from any one state. September 12th, 13th and 14th, 1889, twelfth annual reunion. Eminent speakers from abroad who had accepted invitations failed to put in an appearance, consequently home talent had to be called into requisition, of which there was no lack. Still it was a disappointment to many who never appreciate home talent anyway. The speakers were J. F. Close, E. L. Meek, W. H. Pilkenton, E. W. Wagener, D. A. Allen, H. O. Studley and Rev. Shackelford. The Belleville juvenile band, the Scandia cornet band and the Mosher-Sheeks martial band fur- nished the music throughout the reunion. On Friday afternoon the grand review took place and it was quite a creditable exhibition. Captain Wm. Walker of Scandia, commanded the column, which was reviewed by General Dixon, and staff, consisting of Captain Stud- ley, Jacob Beck and C. G. Bulkley. The exercises, though Hislo)y of Republic County. 253 not quite as interesting as on some former occassions, were of a creditable nature, when everything is taken into consideration. The following criticism of this reunion ap- peared in the Belleville Democrat, at that time edited by by Charlie McLaury, and although perhaps a little severe, very nearly portrays the situation at that time: The twelfth annual reunion of the soldiers and sailors of Republic county closed on Saturday. We do not say that the reunion was an entire failure, but do say that it bordered very closely to one, had but a small margin to go on, and in saying that it was not a fizzle we are making a distinction where but a slight difference exists. This is attributable to several causes, first and chief, perhaps, was the unfavorable weather the second day; second, dis- appointment in the speakers who were advertised, and third, the mismanagement, or rather total lack of manage- ment all the way through. Last week we questioned the propriety of sending off for United States senators and other celebrities when the committee inviting them feel pretty certain that none of them will show up and we are of the same opinion yet. But if the managers persist in this course, let us suggest a program something like the following for next year: FIRST DAY. Addresses by Right Hon. William E. Gladstone and Charles Stuart Parnell. SECOND DAY. The following distinguished speakers will address the assembled multitude: James G. Blaine and William Windom. THIRD DAY. Twenty minute speeches by Ben. Harrison, Secretary Noble, Assistant Secretary Bussey, Corporal Tanner and Private Dalzell. (It might be proper to append a footnote to the pro- 254 History of Republic County. gram, in small letters, stating that in all probability not a single one named would be here.) Whether the above criticism by Charley or a general feeling of apathy on the part of the members of the asso- ciation is responsible for the collapse of the annual re- union meetings is left to the careful consideration of the unprejudiced reader. At any rate no meetings have since been held. CHAPTER XXIL CORN JUBILEE. Belleville, Kansas, August 23, 1890. Dear Sir: — In view of the fact that Republic county will this year harvest the most bountiful crop of corn in its history, it is deemed just and proper that this event be celebrated in an appropriate manner; therefore a mass meeting of the farmers, and any and all others interested, will be held at the court house in Belleville on Monday, August 28th, at 2 o'clock p. m., for the purpose of making the necessary preliminary arrangements for the holding of a Corn Carnival or Pall Festival not later than the first week in October, to continue not less than three days, at which the agricultural and horticultural products of the county are to be exhibited, the display of corn being made a leading feature. It is also recommended that one day be devoted to ex- ercises conducted by the Old Soldiers' and one by the Old Settlers' Reunion Association of Republic county. The railroads running through the county have already signified their willingness to co-operate. Fellow citizens, let us for one week lay aside our ordi- nary business cares and celebrate with songs and rejoicing the fact that it is our good fortune to reside in one of the grandest and most fruitful counties on earth. History of Republic County. 255 You are earnestly requested to attend, also to give this circular the widest possible publicity in your neighbor- hood and see that your township is represented by a large delegation of your leading farmers at the meeting on Mon- day, August 28th. I. O. Savage, R. B. Ward, Geo. W. Collins. In pursuance of the above call, a meeting of the farm- ers and others, interested in Repubhc county, was held at the court house in Belleville, August 28th, for the purpose of considering the propriety of holding a Fall Festival or Corn Carnival that fall. The meeting was called to order by Hon. John M. Doyle and the object briefly stated by I. O. Savage. After an interchange of views, all present favored the project, a permanent organization was effected by the election of John Harris of Richand, president; I. O. Savage of Belleville, secretary; Capt. C. A. Potts of Lin- coln, treasurer; and a vice president from each township in the county. The meeting then adjourned to September 9th, when all necessary committees were appointed and the association was declared fully organized, the general management and very many of the .details being left to the executive committee, of which Senator R. B. Ward was chairman. A mammoth tent 70x110 feet in which to make the exhibit was procured and pitched on the vacant lots on the north side of the public square, also a tent suitable for secretary's oflice. The time was fixed for Oc- tober 4th, 5th and 6th, only twenty-five days after it was definitely determined to hold the jubilee. FIRST DAY. The first day, Wednesday, was devoted to getting everything in position in the tent where the display of products was made, and when evening came it presented a scene of interest and beauty. Broad tables extended around the tent and upon these were placed exhibits. 256 History of Republic County, those ui)on the south side being set apart for individual exhibits and they were all well filled. Below we give a complete list of the entries, which tells the reader what the tables contained. John A. Swenson had an individual exhibit of the products of his one farm, which was extraordinarily fine. The articles were numerous in variety and unexcelled in quality and took the first premium in its class. John Fulcomer also had a very fine exhibit of pro- ducts from his several farms. It consisted of several varieties of every farm product, in the aggregate number- ing about thirty, and all of the very best quality. In ad- dition to these his table was handsomely decorated with plants and flowers, canned fruits, etc., of his own rais- ing. It was a fine display, attracted much attention and took first premium. The township displays of Jefferson, Rose Creek and Freedom were in place and the only ones until Union pulled in her float after the parade the next day, and these were the only townships that made a display in the tent. Imagine what it would have been had all the townships participated. SECOND DAY. All nature seemed to smile upon this effort of the people of Republic county to display her (nature's) boun- ties, for day never dawned upon finer weather for such an occasion. Early in the morning people began to pour into town from every direction, and by 10 o'clock the streets were crowded and, but for the wise precaution of the committee in roping in the square to exclude vehicles, there would have been a complete blockade. The parade, which was to be the first and principal feature of the day, was a little late in starting, but the immense crowd kept itself interested by looking through the tent and listening to the music by the Clay Center and Belleville brass bands, both of which organizations were lavish with the Historv of Republic County. '2.'bl highest order of music, but tinally the parade started. THE GREAT PARADE. The parade was beyond all expectation, magnificent beyond description, and it is impossible to give a descrip- tion of the lioats that would convey to the mind of the reader who did not see them even a faint idea of their beauty, or of the artistic decorations made of corn, kaffir corn, the various varieties of grasses, wheat, oats and vegetables, all blended in perfect harmony, in designs that were really artistic, beautiful and pleasing to the eye and perfect beyond criticism. The line commenced to form at the ball grounds, and as the floats took their places the head of the line moved up into town, so when the parade was ready for the final start the head was on the south side of the square while the rear end was yet on the ball ground, and at about 11 o'clock the final start was made and everything moved along with the precision of clock work. The Belleville Military Band, one of the solid and most admired institutions of the city, led the parade and during the march of more than an hour was playing al" most constantly which, with the Clay Center band that rendered similar good service, and the schools on floats that were almost continuously singing, made music in abundance. The next, and one of the prettiest and most unique attractions in the parade, was a vehicle constructed of bicycles, upon which was a platform and on this a ped- estal, and upon this pedestal about ten feet from the ground stood Miss Eflie Chapin, representing the God- dess of Liberty; this was drawn by three bicycles, little Miss Ethel Lord beautifully representing an angel, lead- ing, followed by Mr. M. J. Chappius and M. Ed. Grat- ingny riding abreast, the former representing John Bull and the latter Uncle Sam, all apparently driven by the Goddess who had lines extending to each of the riders. 258 History of Republic County. Next came the Union township lloats, which were drawn by a large traction engine, nicely decorated and driven by Clint Brackney. The float was one of the hand- somest in the parade, and but for the failure of the town- ship to make the proper showing in the tent, which they could have easily done, it would certainly have taken one of the premiums. The float consisted of a platform nine or ten feet wide and probably twenty feet long on low wheels. On this was a neatly constructed and gracefully proportioned boat about fifteen feet in length, two and a half feet deep and nicely rigged with masts and yard arms, etc. , all made of cornstalks and grasses firmly bound together. The platform from the outer edge in to the bottom of the boat was laden with the products of Union township farms so arranged as to present a very attractive appearance; and the trimmings, which were unexcelled by any other float, were strikingly beautiful and artistic and all made from the products of the farm. And here we will mention another article — the result of genius backed with patience and perseverance which was on the float the second day. It is a rocking chair made of sixty-four horns from Texas steers. The chair was made by Capt. Dancy, and each horn represents one year of his age at the time he made it. Each horn is polished as smooth as glass and so arranged that every curve of bottom, back and arms were perfect. It was a pretty piece of work, solid and substantial, and required many hours of the Captain's leisure time to complete it. The float was followed by Union Valley school in full force on a neatly trimmed float, all singing as merry and happy as larks. Freedom township came next with a magnificent float drawn by six beautiful gray horses, followed by individual floats and other amusing and interesting features that at- tracted great attention. The main float, which in connection with their splen- did display within the tent, gave that township first Freedom Township Float. Awarded First Premium at Corn Jubilee, held at Belleville. October 4th. 5th and 6th. 1899. History of Republic County. 259 premium, consisted of a platform at least 10x20, decor- ated nicely about the edges, in the center of which was a pyramid about six feet at the base and gradually tapering to a point ten feet above with a nice red pumpkin at the top. The sides of the pyramid were richly ornamented with corn wrought into various pretty designs, producing a very pleasing effect. The portion of the platform not occupied by the pyramid was covered with the products of the township and so arranged as to make a splendid showing. At each corner of the platform stood a sheaf of grain and beside each of them, with an old time sickle in hand, one of Freedom's handsomest girls. Large as it was, but well proportioned and handsomely trimmed, it combined the grand with the beautiful and delicate in such pleasing harmony that the result was perfect. One of the very nice and suggestive floats was that of H. J. Slutts. The fore part of his covered spring wagon showed Kansas in her primitive state, that is it was or- namented with buffalo grass, nothing more, while the lat- ter part was well laden with the products of farm — corn, potatoes, pumpkins, squashes, apples, and various kinds of grasses. On the front end of a board attached hori- zontallj^ to the wagon on either side was the word "be- fore" and at the latter end the word "after" and between the words was a plow nicely outlined with grains of corn. It took first premium. Another beautiful float with a young lady standing upon a pedestal with the sword of justice in her hand and in front of a banner bearing the words "protection, peace, prosperity," was very elegant. Next came Scandia's contribution to make the parade a success, and no float excited more curiosity or attracted more attention. To many it was a moving mystery. The design was a large boat, longer and wider than the wagon upon which it was built. The top of the hull was as high as the wagon box, shaped and curved in to graceful form; from this to the ground, representing the part that would 260 History of Republic County. be in the water, was suspended a matting made of heads of kafifir corn, so closely and perfectly put together that at only a short distance away they closely resembled the dark, gracefully curved sides of the lower part of a boat in dry dock. On top of the craft was a small deck, and steering rigging. The propelling force was a mystery, no horses in sight, no smoke or steam or noise escaping, and yet a man at the wheel guiding it at his will as it moved noiselessly along, it put a good many to guessing. But by getting close enough to look through or under the mysterious force could be seen the form of a pair of mules. It was a uniqu3 and ingeniously constructed craft, and had its builders not quit too soon; that is to say, had they gone ahead and put on decks and masts and other rigging they would have been a winner. Next in line came Center Valley School, District No. 92, Washington township. Their float was handsome and loaded down with bright, happy, healthy children, all of whom seemed to be enjoying their day of recreation. Washington as a township, made ho display, never- theless ex-sheriff H. C. Swartz, here showed up in the line with a very handsome individual float, upon which he re- ceived a premium. Hank was determined his township should not go unrepresented, notwithstanding the fact that he could not get the people to see that it was to their interest to make a township disjolay. The Sons and Daughters of Justice, Lodge No. 106, followed with a large, elegant and tastily ornamented float. Miss Mabel Penfield, appropriately attired as the Goddess, standing upon a high pedestal blindfolded and holding in her hands the scales and sword of justice. The portrayal was complete. Next in the line was the Clay Center brass band of eighteen pieces, and as fine a musical organization as can be found in Kansas. Each member is a first class music- ian and a gentleman, and during their visit here they gained the respect of everybody. History of Republic County. 261 Rose Creek township's display was next in line. It was a beauty and attracted much attention. The big float was a house on wheels, a house that cost more money, time and labor to construct, and a house more pretentious in style and appearance than the houses that sheltered its builders in the early days in Kansas. The building itself did not constitute the merit of the display; that was in its ornamentation, and we don't see how it could have been improved. The window and door casings were orna- mented pieces of ears of corn arranged in pretty shapes and looked as neat as carved wood work; the sides of the house were beautifully ornamented with all manner of in- describably beautiful designs made of corn and grass, and the roof was equally as rich, and on the comb of the roof stood a board on either side of which was the outlines of Old Glory, the stars and stripes and back ground all clear and distinct in proper colors and made of kernels of corn. An immense amount of patient, persevering work was required to make this float. It was filled with child- ren and drawn by four nice horses hitched abrea&t. Ida school with 30 to 40 children on a float draAvn by four elegant gray horses made a fine appearance. Jefferson township received a fair share of the mer- it^ed compliments that were paid to the floats as they passed in review^ between the lines of people who thronged the streets on both sides along the line of march. The float was built on low wheels, the platform was large and commodious, and on this was constructed a raised plat- form about two and a half feet high, the sides sloping up at an angle of about 45 degrees, leaving a platform about twelve by three feet at top: on this was a boat trimmed up and rigged out in good style at the Salt Creek navy yard. The portion of the lower platform not covered by the upper one was covered with fruits and other farm products and the sloping sides referred to were also handsomely festooned and oramented, the products of the 262 History of Repttblic County. farm beinj^ the only material used, but so deftly arranged as to present a strikingly handsome effect. The next was an old covered wagon filled with child- ren and bearing the label, "The Crop that Never Fails." It made a good hit, everybody saw the point and cheered it as it passed. This float was from Liberty township and all agreed that the committee made no mistake in awarding it the first premium. Liberty township was also represented by a very handsome float carrying Excelsior school, district 66. Washington township by Center Valley school, dis- trict 92. Rose Creek by Star school. Courtland by Courtland school. Every school in the county ought to have been here. Citizens of Belleville had several attractions in the parade. The parade being over the people amused themselves in various ways until 4 p. m., when the glee club sang and the show of twenty -one samples of the "Crop that Never Pails in Kansas," took place at the grand stand. This was the baby show. In the evening again thousands assembled at the stand to listen to the Clay Center band, the colored vocal musicians of the same city, witness the cake walk by the same parties, and the marriage ceremony that made Fred Martin and Miss Maggie Regester man and wife. This closed the program for the day, but the corn throwing and other innocent amusement that sug- gested itself continued until late in the night. THIRD DAY. The third day was as nice and bright as either of the others, and though the crowd was not quite as large as the day previous they were just as full of fun and enthusiasm. It had not been the intention to have the parade over again on Friday, but it being so far beyond -what had been ex- pected hundreds wanted to see it again, and to accommo- date them and also those who did not see it the day pre- History of Republic County. 263 vious, it was decided to repeat its principal features, and those having charge of the main floats kindly consented, and accordingly at ten o'clock the parade was again on the march, as grand as before, though not so large, followed by "Sousa's Band, " which was not a feature the day before. In the afternoon all the sports and contests came off according to the programme and furnished an abundance of fun for all who could get within seeing distance. And here again was a demonstration of the good feeling and fellowship that prevailed throughout the jubilee, for if there is one thing more than another calculated to stir up bile and bad blood it is a contest where the physical prowess of man or beast is involved with money at the end of it, but in these several contests not a harsh word was uttered or a particle of dissatisfaction manifested. When these contests closed the great Republic Coun- ty Corn Jubilee of 1899 was practically over; a thing of the past, but its memory will last as long as anyone is living who is now old enough to realize its magnitude, and every- one who did something to help it along can always point with pride to his county's great jubilee and say "I did what I could." The following descriptive sketch is from the pen of Harry Root, correspondent of the Topeka State Journal, who attended the Jubilee as special reporter for that paper: Belleville, October 6. — Republic connty has been hold- ing a three days' corn Jubilee in Belleville. The big day was Thursday. Ex-Sheriff Kindt who has been here about as long as anybody, says the crowd outnumbered two to one any other crowd ever seen in Belleville, and Kindt has seen all of them. The crowd reminded everybody of the great populist rallies and picnics of 1890. Republic county has a just right to rejoice this year, and her people are celebrating over the most bountiful crops ever raised in the county. Her farmers had out over 210,000 acres of corn. There is not a poor field in he county, and they estimate not less than ten million 264 History of Republic County. bushels as the product for 1899. And they make the claim that when the statistics are all in, Kansas will then credit Republic county as the banner corn county for the year. And this year her people are holding a great corn jubilee, the like of which has perhaps never before been seen in Kansas. Atchison came nearer to it, but Republic county can go them several lengths better. A mammoth tent has been secured where the cereals of the garden and farm are shown by townships, and for which liberal premiums are offered for the best display. The contests have been spirited. The inside of the big tent is worth going miles to see. It is full of the products of Republic county farms. Ex-State Senator Savage, who came to Republic county in 1871, and who was one of the assistant commissioners to the Centennial from Kansas, says the display of corn at this jubilee beat anything in the corn line at that exhibition when Kansas made such an effort to get the best, by 50 per cent. He says the display of farm products at this jubilee beats any thing he has seen in all his travels. Every merchant bore his part in the decorations of windows and buildings, each one trying to outdo his neigh- bor in neat and artistic corn emblems or other farm cer- eals. Suffice to say that all the business men were with one accord to see the first corn jubilee made a crowning success. The parade was magnificent. It was headed by the queen of the corn jubilee, Miss Elfie Chapin, the Belleville military band in the lead. Union township came with a float representing a ship made of corn and farm products and drawn by a traction engine. Scandia township had another ship float, loaded down with vegetables, corn and farm and garden cereals. The float of the Sons and Daug- ters of Justice of Belleville council No. 6, was a most at- tractive one in its decorations. Rose Creek township's float was a house tastily trimmed with corn and cereals, and tilled with young girls, the beauty of this township). History of Republic County. 265 Freedom township's tloat was a large wagon, in the center of which was a huge pyramid built of corn, and tastefully trimmed with the products of the farm and garden. Lib- erty township had a lioat laden down with young girls and boys, with the inscription: "Crop that never fails." It was also artistically decorated with corn and other farm emblems. Every float was gotten up to attract. They were all good. There wasn't a bad feature in the parade. They were gotten up to entertain and the jam of people went away satisfied. To speak of each one separately, and they all deserve special mention, would fill columns. Many of the decorations and floats would be creditable to picture out in the leading magazines and newspapers of the country. Liberal premiums were offered by the committee which tended in a measure to increase the interest in the corn jubilee. Neighboring towns swelled the crowd until Belleville was overflowing with a perfect jam of people, es- timated from 12,000 to 15,000. The attractions put on the bills are numerous, each having scores of backers, though the main one was Republic county's farm and garden cer- eals. Republic is the first county in Kansas to hold a purely farm and garden carnival. The crowd was as orderly as it could possibly be at a corn jubilee, and when daylight came the streets were white with corn meal. Not a serious accident occurred. The corn jubilee is the biggest advertisement Repub- lic county and Belleville has ever had. The crops are large this year, specimens of which are on exhibition from most every township in the county. All of Atchison, which is the father of the corn carnival enterprise in Kansas, would praise the first successful efforts of the people of Belleville and Republic county in making so complete a success of their jubilee. In fact her people will not take a back seat in their first successful attempt at a corn jubilee. Many visitors from Topeka, St. Joseph, Kansas City and points east thereof, say it was the grandest displa.}'^ of 266 History of Republic County. farm products they ever saw and a number say they visited Philadelphia in76 and Chicago in 1892-93, but there was no better display of corn, wheat, rye, potatoes, etc., than those on exhibition here today. Old gray haired men and women who immigrated to this county in the sixties and seventies, looked on with amaze- ment and surprise that so many people had gathered to- gether, so many well dressed, well behaved people with happiness and prosperity written on their brows. Nearly every, if indeed not every township in the county, was represented either in the exhibition tent or in the grand parade and hundreds of business men and others fell in line. The following names, together with number of entry and products entered, and every individual in the list, has the happy satisfaction of knowing that he assisted in mak- ing Republic County's Corn Jubilee the greatest affair of the kind ever held in the state, and in doing so contributed to the two days' pleasure and enjoyment of the ten thous- and of his fellow citizens who attended it. Indeed it is a ROLL OF HONOR. B. F. Carson, Belleville township, I 50 ears White Dent corn. •Z 59 ears Yellow. M. M. Donges, Belleville City, 3 ^2 bushel Irish potatoes. L. W. Bethards. Belleville City, 4 '/i bushel Irish potatoes, six weeks 5 V« bushel turnips, 6 1 dozen Mangoes. J. A. Miller, Freedom township, 7 50 ears Yellow Dent corn. R. H. Boyes, Freedom township, 8 60 ears White Dent com. Sons and Daughters of Justice, Lodge No. 1-, 9 float. H. J. Slutts, Freedom township, 10 Decorated family vehicle. Edward Kipper. Freedom. II 60 ears pop corn, sample on stalk. Thomas Benson, Liberty. 12 '/J bushel Irish potatoes, 13 Plate of apples. 14 do do do 15 do do do Aaron Boyes. Freedom, 16 Plate of apples, 17 do do do Aaron Perry, Liberty, Is Decorated float. P D Patterson. Lincoln, 19 50 ears Yellow Dent corn, W. P. Hamilton, Belleville township, 2(1 25 heads of Kaffir corn. Orrin Jewett, Lincoln. 21 'e bushel Irish potatoes. J. F. M. Smith. Jefferson. 22 50 ears Bloody Butcher corn. W. W. Boyes, Freedom. 23 50 ears White Dent corn. Henry Osman Belleville township. 24 '-i bushel Irish potatoes, 25 14 bushel turnips, 26 1- pumpkin. Henry Passmore. Grant, 27 M bushel sweet potatoes. Orry Corey. Grant. 28 'i bushel Irish potatoes. Henry Passmore. Grant. 29 'i bushel Irish potatoes. Charles Passmore. Cirant, 30 50 ears White Dent corn. Henry Passmore, Grant. 31 50 ears White Dent corn. W. M. Owsley, City, 32 Vi bushel Irish potatoes. W. W. Wait, Freedom. 33 I4 bushel Irish potatoes. W. W. Wait, Freedom, 3t 50 ears White Dent corn. History of Republic County. 267 A. J. Hill, city. 35 50 ears sweet corn, 3(5 50 ears sweet corn. 37 50 ears pop corn. 38 60 ears nop corn. 39 M bushel Irish potatoes, 40 '.> bushel Irish potatoes. F. M. Johnson. 41 '2 bushel Irish potatoes. Charley Pangle. 42 iW ears pop corn. Z. J. Tate, 43 1 radish. 44 1 bungle horn squash, Mrs. Geo. Hodtjkinson. Freedom, 45 .50 ears pop corn. Orrin Abby. Freedom. 4t) >o bushel Irish potatoes. T. M. Hemphill. Belleville township, 47 50 ears White Dent corn. E. Howard. Belleville City, 48 "2 bushel Irish potatoes. Willis Childs, Freedom, 49 .50 ears pop corn. George McCune, Jefferson, .50 1 pumpkin, 51 1 squash, 'iZ \ squash. I. N. Champion. Jefferson. 53 .50 ears White Dent corn, r>4 .50 ears Bloody Butcher corn. 55 50 ears pop corn. 56 .50 ears Yellow Dent corn. Ted Black, Freedom. .57 .50 ears White Dent corn. H. D. Cooley, City, 58 1 squash. Geo. M. Adams, Belleville City, .59 50 ears pop corn. Ed Kipper. Freedom. 60 50 ears pop corn. M. L. Cantteld. Freedom. Gl ,50 ears White Dent corn, 62 25 heads white Kaffir coi-n, \Si 'i bushel Irish potatoes. C. Corbut, Lincoln. (!4 50 ears Yellow Dent corn, 65 V2 bushel Irish potatoes. Abbott Cheney. Freedom. 66 'o bushel Irish potatoes. L. W. Bethards. Belleville City, 67 ^i bushel Irish potatoes, 68 'o bushel turnips, 69 1 do/en Mangoes. E. B. Helwick. Liberty, 70 50 ears Bloody Butcher corn. R. T. Jellison Liberty. 71 50 ears White Dent corn. Geo. W. Sickels. 73 .50 ears Yellow Dent corn,(Ciolden Beauty.) H. C. Hancock. Albion, 73 50 ears Yellow Dent, (Gold Stan.) E. J. Millen. Washington. 74 2 Hubbard squashes. W. Steenblock. Rose Creek. 75 :25 heads white Kaffir corn. Jessie Jellison, 76 decorated bicycle. R T. Kelley, 77 5 pl-vtes apples. J. M. Randall. 78 .50 ears White Dent corn, 79 Yi bushel Irish potatoes. 80 .50 ears pop corn. Wm. Hadley. Liberty, 81 y« bushel Irish potatoes. Julius Beecher, 82 1 pumpkin. J D Pangle. Belleville City. 83 50 ears Yellow Dent oorn. F. N. Townsend, Big Bend. 84 Vi bushel Irish potatoes, 85 Yams. Geo. M. PoweU, 86 V« bushel Irish potatoes. T. J. Bucknell. 87 14 bushel Irish potatoes. A. P. Larsen Warwick, Kansas, 88 .50 ears White Dent corn, 89 .50 ears Bloody Butcher corn. Peter Welsh, 90 50 ears Yellow Dent corn. J. W. Abbott. 91 1 pumpkin. Anna C. Feight, 92 squashes. Geo. W. Cowle, 93 50 ears Yellow Dent corn, 94 oats, 95 squashes. 96 '/i bushel Irish potatoes. 97 35 heads white Kaffir corn. Smith Brothers. Norway township, 98 50 ears White Dent corn. D. W. Wilson. Lincoln, 99 1 peck wheat. Jonathan Taylor, Scandia towns 100 14 bushel Irish potatoes, 101 ^l bushel Irish potatoes. W P Hamilton. Belleville, 102 50 ears White Dent corn. John Kuhn. Belleville township, 103 onions. Thos. Benson. Liberty. 104 plate of apples, 105 plate of apples. P M Howard. 100 V« bushel potatoes. S Pentico. Elk Creek, 107 i4 bushel sweet potatoes, 108 '-I bushel Irish potatoes. P M Howard. 109 14 bushel of oats. 110 V4 bushel Irish potatoes, 111 '/j bushel Irish potatoes. 112 .50 ears White Dent corn. Thos Benson Liberty, 113 '2 bushel oats. B F Carson. Belleville. 114 .50 ears White Dent corn. P M Howrrd. 115 % bushel wheat. C A Ball. 116 .50 ears Yellow Dent, 117 ¥< bushel Irish potatoes. H. J. Slutts, 118 decorated float of f ai-m products. P M Howard. 119 1/2 bushel wheat, Chas Larson. 120 50 ears White Dent corn, 121 V2 bushel Calico corn, 122 Vz bushel Irish potatoes. Jamps S Price, 123 sample of alfalfa, 124 1 pumpkin, 125 1 squash. 268 History of Republic County. Geo. Thompson. 12() 50 ears White Uent corn . A M UiinMeld. Helleville City, 127 'a bushel .sweel potatoes. J. H Waterson. I\*ose t'rfek, I?8 ill) ears Bloody Butcher corn, i:.'9 ."iO ears Yellow Dent corn, 130 .^l) ears White Dent corn, 131 ') I ears t'alico corn, V.V2 .50 ears pop corn A. lU. Canlield, 1.33 Yi bushel onions, (grown from seed.) Mrs. (Gardner. Washington, 134 pumpkins. I C Ware, Scandia, 13s sweet corn, W Biiteman. Courtland. 135 .")0 ears White Dent corn, 13(i nO ears Yellow Dent corn. 137 apples J D Pangle, 13i» .')0 ears pop corn. W. M. Eccles, Farminston, 140 •")() ears White Dent corn, S T Colhns, 141 sample of wheat, 142 sample of corn grown from seed supposed to be 4,000 years old. Lewis Young, 143 '» bushel Irish potatoes. O. E. Haven, 144 % bushel Irish potatoes, 145 f 2 bushel Irish potatoes. M Kenney, 14(i y^ bushel Irish potatoes. .John L Lewis, Belleville township, 147 i4 bushel Irish potatoes. U. S. G Bower.sox. Union, 148 50 ears White Dent corn. C Baker, 14ii M ears Yellow Dent cora. J. A. f":ardwe)l, Union 1.^0 50 ears CJalico corn. Aaron Boyes, l.')l plate of apples. M Kenney, ElU. l.'2.')0 ears Yellow Dent corn. H. C. Hancock Albion, \r>.i 1 plate apples. 154 1 plate apples, 1.55 (i longest ears of corn. G. W. Hubbard, Lincoln, 156 50 ears pop corn. L. N. Bonner. HelleviUe, 157 Vo bushel svs'eet potatoes. Toney Han.sleek. Fairview. 1.58 }2 bushel Irish potatoes, 1.50 \--< do do do 160 '(. do do do John Randall Jefferson, 101 1 plate of grapes. J. O. Larson. Heaver, 162 Vi bushel spring wheal. Wm, Batemau, Clouriland, Ityi plate of apples. W. II. Remy, Washington. 104 '/i bushel Irish po'-atoes. W. O Tate, Norway, 165 y« bushel Yellow Dent corn. Thos Ward, 166 5'j ears squaw corn. Baby entries: Otis Lash, 4 mo.; Paul Fulcomer, 10 mo.: Helen R. Legerstrom, 7 mo.: Chas. W. Rae, !l mo., first prize: Trueman .^mith. II mo., second prize: Maude Buhner. 11 mo.; Lewis Harold CMastlc, 10 nio : Ester Hiclvs, 3mo.: Elmer Logue, 2 mo.: Leslie Waters. 8 mo ; Freddie Sherman. 4 mo : Isabelle Collins. 4 mo.; MoUie Nixon, 1 mo.; Willie Kelley. 12 mo.; Fern Cor win. (i ino ; Waller Polly. mo.; Bessie Kuhn. 4 mo.; Evert Thom- as. 1 year; Helen Bales, lu weeks; Kosey Robins. 4 mo : Elsie Swenson. 11 mo. Following are the Judges and awards: Com. on decorated bicycles and car- riages: Mrs. D. D. Bramwell, Mrs. Dr. Kamp, Mrs. Chauncy Perry. Best decorated hor.se and i ider: Mrs D. D Bramwell, Mrs. Dr. Karap. Mrs. Chaimc. Perry. Com Township display: T. M. Thompson, D. Lake. Joseph Brenneman Com. on Individual display: Wm. Bell, John Yale. John Mosshart Display by townships: Freedom lownship .. . .1st $,50.00 Rose CreeK township 2d 25. (X) Jefferson township 3d 15.00 White Dent corn: G. M. Hemphill. Belleville. . 1st 5. CO J. M. Randall Jefferson 2d 3.(0 Smith Brothers, Norway 3d 2. 00 Y'ellow Dent corn: M Kenney. Elk Creek 1st 5 00 George W. Sickel<. Freedom 2d 3. CO P. D. Patterson, Lincoln.... 3d 2. CO Calico corn : J. A. Cardwell. Union 1st 5.00 J H. Watterson 2d 3.00 Bloodv Butcher corn: J. F. Smith. Jefferson 1st 5.ro A. P. Larson. Warwick 2d 3.00 I. N. Champion, Jefferson. . 3d 2. CO Pop corn: rhas. Pangle, Belleville City 1st 2.00 Willis Childs. Freedom 2d 1.00 J. M. Randall. Jtffersi.n 3d .50 Sweet corn; I. n. V/Hre, Scandia City ..1st 3 00 A.J.Hill Belleville City... 2d 2.00 A.J. Hi 1, Belleville City .... 3d 1 00 White Kafllr corn; A. Steenblock. Rose Creek 1st 3 00 M. L. Canheld, Freedom. . . 2d 2 00 W.P.Hamilton Belleville .3d 1.(0 Squaw corn: Th' mas Ward 1st 2 OJ Irish potatoes: Abott Cheney, Freedom. ..1st 3.00 Lewis Young. Rose Creek ..2d 2.00 F. N. Townsend, Big Bend. 3d 1.00 Sweet potatoes: Henry Passinore, Grant 1st 3.00 A. M. CanOeld. Belleville C, 2d 2.0O L. N. Bonner. Belleville 3d 1.00 Six largest ears corn. H. C. Hancock, Albion, Te'escope 1 .year. History of Republic County. 269 Six heaviest ears of cora: A. P. Larsoa. Warwick. Telescope 1 year. A. P. Larson. Warwick, by Cash Store. 1 pound Tourist coffee. Best peck Irish potatoes: M. L. Cantield. Freedom, Telescope 1 year. Best plate apples: H. C. Hancock. Albion, Freeman 1 year. Best '.^ bushel onions; •Tohn Kuhn. Belleville township. loaves bread, S. S. Brown. Best plate grapes: John Randall, Jefferson, Freeman 1 year. Best 'o bushel wheat: J. O. Lar.son, Beaver— Cash Store. 1 pound Tourist coffee. ^N. Y. Store, towel rack and mirror. Lartjest S(iuash: Geo. Cowles. Lincoln— Cash Store, 1 pound Tourist coffee. Best Hubbard siiuash: E. J. Miller. Washington— J. C. Daw- son, pholo album. Largest pumpkin: J. W. Aboott, Big Bend— 1 pound of Tourist coffee by Cash Store. Sack Race .50 yards: C. L. Ward fl.OO Egg race: J. T. Fleming 1.0) Throwing sledge: W. Parks 2.00 Standing jump: W. Parks 2.00 Running jump: W. Parks .'. . 2.0'i Strongest team of horses or mules: A.C.Taylor 1st 5.00 Geo. Munger, no premium on 2d. Tug of war: Union, J. J. Eastman, Capt 1st 12 00 Rose Creek, L. Young Capt '.'d 6,00 Baby show, 20 entries. Mrs. Chas. W. Rea (1st baby !» month old) 6.00 Mrs. Truman Smith (3d baby lOmonthsold) 4.00 Best exhibit of farm product by any indi idual, grown on the land owned or controlled by the exhibitor.John Fulcomer Belleville City 10.00 Best display farm products any one farm, John A. Swenson. Freedom 10 00 Best decorated float of agricul- tural products by any one in- dividual: H. J. Slutts, Freedom 1st 10.00 Aaron Perry 3d .5.00 H. C. Swartz Washington, Telescope 1 year. "Crop that Never Fails in Kan- sas" represented by Liberty township float 1st 10.00 Jefferson township, Freeman 1 year 2d 200 yard foot race: "W. Parks 1st 3.00 S Baldwin 2d 2. CO Best p'3 Peake. W. P . 54-120 Rose Creek Township 143 Richland Township 1.55 Reilv, J. C .56-57-1 18-1.56 Reilv. T. C 58-121-122-156 Reily. W. H. H 1.5r,311 Rowe. Z P 59-64-6.5-115 Rirnol. R 126-161 Republic City 189 Reeves. W. A 121-47-148 Scandia Township 1.58 Scandia City 184 Page Skeels. S. W 117 Studley. H. O 121-1^2-272-281-315 .S wariz, H. C l!;3-2<)0-315 Smith. J. VV 121-122-136 Stover. S G .. . 119-1^0-281 .Schooley, I. M 37-45 Stantleld. R. T 48-50-12.5-315 Savage LO 3I3 Sturges. F. W 107-123-124-12.5 Shaw. Capt. A . 117-314 Tuthill, James C 36-116-173 Union Township 151 VanNatta, J E 38-39-56-58-61-155 VanNatla, N. T.. .93-94-108-110-112-116-118 119-317 Vantrump, V 180-182-183 Washington Township 147 White Rock Township 150 Warner. A B 30-96 Way. Philo P 63-1 1 5-320 Wilioughbv, Wm. H 48 Ward, R B 124-125-2.5.5-269 Woodvr ard, F. N 19-126 WMlson, D. Y 125-126 Woods, Ben D 12.5-126 Wagener, Eli W 120-121-231 Ware, I C 125-126 335 Wells, John F 119-121-122-13.5-140 White, L. R 122-123-124 Williams, J. C 117 Wegal. A 12,5-126-320 West. R. P 38-40-5«-88-115-l 18-158-212 Wilson. A. S 106-117-118-120 Wayne 193 WUson, A. D 103-117 White, Geo L 118-119-319 Wilder. A. B 91-234 Woodward. Chas. F 118-^34 Wohlfart. Thure 120 «^