To really understand COWLEY COUNTY HISTORY, you must read thefollowing long article that appears in
Cowley County Democrat, Winfield, Kansas, Thursday, July 13,1876.
Walton's History bears up under close scrutiny. Kay studied itvery intensely and learned more from it about the early county history thanfrom anywhere else. Walton did a lot of study to come up with this. By theway, he died a horrible death later on. He obtained permission from engineer[who had no right to give it] to ride in the cab with him. Walton died whena train wreck occurred from the hot engine steam. The engineer got suedfor permitting him to ride in engine with him. Walton was the only fatality.
Before we get into the murder, it is necessary to get what backgroundwe have on Leland J. Webb and Jay Page. So here goes...MAW
Webb family explained...
W. C. Webb, Leland J. Webb's father.
H. G. Webb, Leland J. Webb's Uncle.
J. H. Webb, Leland J. Webb's Uncle.
C. M. Webb, Leland J. Webb's Uncle.
Leland J. Webb had a number of brothers and sisters...
LELAND J. WEBB.
Cowley County Censor, May 13, 1871.
LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
OFFICE AT FULLER'S BANK, MAIN STREET.
Cowley County Censor, May 13, 1871.
We welcome to our place Mr. L. J. Webb, late of Columbus. He is a younglawyer of promise and comes from good legal stock, being the son of JudgeWebb of Topeka and the nephew of the present Judge of this district. Weextend the same to his brother, L. S. Webb, who also has arrived here forthe purpose of going into business.
Leland J. Webb's father, Judge Webb...
Walnut Valley Times, June 2, 1871.
Judge Webb has declared the Herd Law unconstitutional in Cowley County.It is claimed that two of the three judges of the Supreme Court of the Statehold that it is Constitutional. This is all that we know about it.
Back to Leland J. Webb...
Walnut Valley Times, June 16, 1871.
L. J. Webb assumes the editorial chair of the Cowley County Censor,hereafter. Mr. Webb is an old typo, and an experienced newspaper man.
Cowley County Censor, Saturday, July 1, 1871. [Vol. 1, No. 44.]
Winfield is ahead, and now has three stage lines running to it from variouspoints. The Southwestern Stage Company have just established a tri-weeklyline from Independence to Winfield; it runs via Elk Falls and Canola, inHoward County, and crosses Grouse Creek at Jeffersonville, in this county.This gives us stage communication with railroad lines to the east and north.
Mr. Isaiah Burns also runs a semi-weekly hack from here to Oxford, Nenescah,and Belle Plaine. Arrangements are being made for a hack line to the eastvia Dexter, Cedarvale, and Belleview. Semi-weekly mail service has beenput upon the last named route. These, with our daily stage line along theWalnut valley, give us ample mail and stage facilities. One more is needed,and we will have it: that is a stage line from here to Eureka via the valleyof Timber Creek.
Cowley County Censor, July 1, 1871.
A military salute will be fired at sunrise.
The procession will be formed on Main Street at 10 a.m., by the Marshalof the day, and march to the grove at 11 o'clock accompanied with a bandof music under the management of Prof. Palmer.
On arriving at the Grove the following order of exercises will be observed.
1. Song: Star Spangled Banner, by the Winfield Quartette Club.
2. Prayer by Rev. Mr. Johnson, Chaplain of the day.
3. Reading of the Declaration of Independence by Mr. L. J. Webb.
4. Music by the Band.
5. Oration.
6. Song: "God Bless Columbia."
7. Music by the Band.
8. Dinner. After which music by the Band.
1. "President of the United States." Response by Mr. A. W.Tousey.
Song: American Flag Song.
3. "The Day We Celebrate." Response by Judge Ross.
Song: "Firmly Stand."
5. "Cowley County." Response by the Rev. Mr. Inman.
Music by the Band.
7. "Lo! the Poor Indian." Response by Col. Alexander.
Song: Shout for the Banner.
8. "The Ladies of Cowley County." Response by the Rev. E. P.Hickok.
9. "Our Railroad Enterprises." Response by Mr. D. A. Millington.
Song: "National Hymn."
10. "The Rising Generation." Response by Mr. Lemon.
Song: "Sweet Spirit hear my prayer."
Music by the band.
Conclusion. Doxology.
N. B. -- All are invited to join in the procession and march to the Grove.
Leland J. Webb...
Cowley County Censor, July 1, 1871.
When you want a Deed, Bond for a Deed, Mortgage, Contract or other instrumentdrawn, call on Webb & Coon.
Cowley County Censor, July 1, 1871.
Notice to Settlers. We will prepare and file Declaratory Statements forfour dollars. This includes the fee at the Land Office. WEBB & COON,Attorneys at Law.
Walnut Valley Times, August 11, 1871.
The Cowley County Censor has changed hands, Patrick having soldout to Messrs. Webb & Doud.
Emporia News, August 18, 1871.
The Cowley County Censor has changed hands, Patrick having soldout to Messrs. Webb & Doud.
[E. C. MANNING: ARKANSAS TRAVELER/"KOWLEY COUNTY CENSOR."]
Walnut Valley Times, August 25, 1871.
"Mr. E. C. Manning bought the Censor office about two weeksago, and placed it in the hands of Mr. Webb to manage it, while he (Manning)will do the editing under the cover of Webb's name." Arkansas Traveler.
Of which, we most blandly say, it is a base falsehood, and our neighborknew it before it published what it thought would work down deep in theminds of the people, and have a tendency to injure the reputation of theCensor, which is striving to establish among its many patrons.Kowley Kounty Censor.
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
See dissolution notice of Webb & Coon. Mr. Coon remains at the Bankbuilding of J. C. Fuller, where he is prepared to do all business in thelegal line. Mr. Webb has moved his library to the CENSOR office.
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW -AND- NOTARY PUBLIC. WILL PRACTICE inall the Courts of the State. Office in the "Censor" office, MainStreet, Winfield, Kansas.
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
DISSOLUTION NOTICE...PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN L. J. WEBB. AND L. J. COON...WINFIELD,KANSAS, OCTOBER 16, 1871.
[REPUBLICAN COUNTY CONVENTION.]
Cowley County Censor, October 21, 1871.
Last Saturday the Republican Delegate Convention met at this place and,notwithstanding the day was stormy and disagreeable, all the townships wererepresented except Creswell. The following named gentlemen were the delegates.
Richland Township: James Kelly and Frank Cox.
Windsor Township: S. Wilkins, B. H. Clover, and John Dudley.
Vernon Township: Geo. Easterly, T. A. Blanchard, and F. A. Schwantes.
Beaver Township: T. W. Morris, B. Y. Hunt, and L. M. Kennedy.
Tisdale Township: G. W. Foughty and A. B. Lemmon.
Pleasant Valley Township: W. E. Cook, D. Hostetter, and S. W. Greer.
Rock Township: John Irwin, A. V. Polk, W. H. Grow, and J. Funk.
Dexter Township: Jas. McDermott, J. H. Reynolds, and G. P. Wagner.
Winfield: E. S. Torrance, I. H. Coon, J. W. Hornbeak, C. A. Bliss, J.A. Myton, Capt. Tansey, D. A. Millington, and Jno. Stannard.
The convention was called to order by J. McDermott, Chairman of the CentralCommittee.
E. S. Torrance was chosen temporary Chairman and L. H. Coon, Secretary.
CANDIDATES FOR NOMINATION:
Representatives: E. C. Manning and S. M. Fall.
Sheriff: T. A. Blanchard, Warren Ablen, J. M. Pattison and E. M. Conklin.
Register of Deeds: John Irwin, F. A. Hunt, G. C. Swasey, and J. W. Tull.
Treasurer: A. H. Green, W. H. Grow, and G. W. Bullene.
Coroner: G. P. Wagner.
Surveyor: W. W. Walton.
County Clerk: J. W. Hornbeak and J. A. Myton.
Superintendent of Public Instruction: Jno. Dudley and A. B. Lemmon.
CENTRAL COMMITTEE FOR ENSUING YEAR:
Dexter township, James McDermott.
Creswell township, G. H. Norton.
Beaver township, L. M. Kennedy.
Rock township, John Irwin.
Winfield township, L. J. Webb.
L. J. WEBB WAS CHOSEN CHAIRMAN AND JOHN IRWIN SECRETARY.
Cowley County Censor, October 28, 1871.
TO PRINTERS. We have a good Smith Press for sale. Plates 24 x 28. Thispress is in good order, and only for sale because we have purchased a largerone. Price $100 cash. Address WEBB & NICHOLS, Publishers CENSOR.
[SOUTHWESTERN KANSAS: COWLEY COUNTY.]
Walnut Valley Times, Friday, January 12, 1872.
L. J. Webb and E. G. Nichols have sold the Winfield Censor printingoffice to W. H. Kerns, who will continue the publication of the same atWinfield.
We notice with pleasure the fact that the Quakers of this town and vicinityare the most enterprising class of our citizens. Their religion is not stowedaway in some remote corner of their heart, never to be brought to light.
[JUDICIAL CONVENTION.]
Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.
A Convention of the Attorneys of the 13th Judicial District will be heldat Winfield, in Cowley County, on the 25th day of July, A. D. 1872, forthe purpose of recommending to the District Convention, or Conventions,to be held for that purpose, a Candidate for nomina-tion for Judge of saidDistrict to be voted for at the next general election.
W. S. TUCKER. J. T. SHOWALTER.
M. W. SUTTON. J. M. HOOVER.
D. F. BAYLESS. J. B. FAIRBANK.
THOMAS MASON. W. H. KERN.
J. M. McCOLLEN. JOHN REED.
J. J. WINGAR. E. B. KAGER.
R. B. SAFFOLD. E. L. AKIN.
D. N. CALDWELL. A. H. GREEN.
T. T. TILLOTSON. D. S. HEISHEY [?HEISNEY].
L. J. WEBB. JOHN G. TUCKER.
E. S. TORRANCE. REUBEN RIGGS.
J. M. ALEXANDER. S. D. PRYOR.
E. C. MANNING. T. H. JOHNSON.
H. D. LAMB. G. P. GARLAND.
D. DODGE. J. McDERMOTT.
and many others, attorneys of said district.
Winfield Messenger, July 12, 1872.
A township convention was held at the courthouse last Saturday, and delegateswere elected to the county convention. The delegates chosen were L. J. Webb,J. P. Short, and W. M. Boyer.
[CENTRAL COMMITTEE.]
Winfield Messenger, July 19, 1872.
Committees of the different townships, met pursuant to call. On motionL. J. Webb was chosen chairman, and John Irwin, secretary. On motion, Messrs.Kelly and Lenney chosen committee on candidates. The committee on credentials,reported the following persons as members of the County Central Committee.
James R. Bryan, Dexter.
L. J. Webb, Winfield.
C. R. Mitchell, Creswell.
J. B. Nipp, Pleasant Valley.
L. B. Wamsley, Nenescah.
James Kelly, Richland.
John Irwin, Rock.
E. P. Kennie, Bolton.
The remaining townships were not represented. On motion, L. J. Webb waselected chairman of the County Central Committee. L. J. Webb resigned, andJames Kelly, on motion, was duly elected chairman.
C. R. Mitchell was elected secretary of County Central Committee.
On motion, Messrs. Irwin and Kennie were elected as committee to ascertainthe number of persons on the tax roll in each township.
The committee to ascertain the number upon the tax rolls of the severaltownships reported as follows:
Vernon, 125.
Silver Dale, 66.
Creswell, 177.
Richland, 97.
Ninnescah, 87.
Pleasant Valley, 92.
Winfield, 560.
Cedar, 88.
Beaver, 83.
Bolton, 146.
Tisdale, 185.
Windsor, 170.
Rock, 230.
Report received, and committee discharged.
On motion, a Republican Convention was called, to meet on the 29th dayof August, 1872, at Winfield, at 1 o'clock P.M., to elect delegates andalternates to the Republican State Convention at Topeka and Lawrence, onWednesday, September 4th A. D. 1872. . . .
Winfield Messenger, July 26, 1872.
Convention met pursuant to call at 4 o'clock p.m., July 25th, 1872.
Col. Manning, of Cowley, called the convention to order and stated theobject to be for the purpose of recommending a candidate for the Judgeshipof the 13th Judicial District to a nominating convention.
Col. W. H. Knapp, of Sumner County, was chosen chairman, and L. J. Webbof Cowley County, secretary.
Committee on credentials were appointed, consisting of one member fromeach county represented.
Convention then adjourned until 7 o'clock p.m.
Convention met at 7 o'clock p.m., pursuant to adjournment. Committeeon credentials reported, and the report was accepted, and the Committeedischarged.
The following resolution was then unanimously adopted.
Resolved, That as two counties in this 13th Judicial Districtare unrepresented in this Convention, we deem it impolite to recommend acandidate for the consideration of a nominating Convention.
Commission then adjourned, sine die. L. J. WEBB, Secy.
Winfield Messenger, August 16, 1872.
The Republicans of Winfield and vicinity met at the courthouse in thisplace on last Saturday evening for the purpose of organizing a Grant andWilson Club. The organization of the club was perfected by the adoptionof a constitution and by-laws, and the election of the following named personsas permanent officers: L. J. Webb, president; E. B. Kager, Vice President;E. S. Torrance, secretary; H. Brotherton, Treasurer.
J. A. Myton, E. Davis, and E. P. Hickok were elected as members of theexecutive committee.
Winfield Messenger, August 30, 1872.
The Convention held at Winfield, Wednesday, August 20, for the purposeof nominating county officers, etc., was organized by electing J. B. Parmleetemporary Chairman, and J. P. Short temporary Secretary. A committee ofone delegate from each Township was appointed on credentials; during theirabsence the Convention call was read by the secretary, and speeches weremade by the different candidates notable among which was that of Capt. McDermott.Committee on credentials reported the names of sixty-six delegates entitledto vote, and at being present, or represented by proxy. Report receivedand committee discharged. J. B. Parmlee was then unanimously elected permanentPresident of the Convention and J. P. Short was elected permanent Secretary.On motion L. J. Webb was elected Assistant Secretary.
A committee of three on resolutions was appointed consisting of the followingnamed delegates.
P. G. SMITH, Dexter, Chairman.
C. A. EATON, Windsor, Chairman.
S. W. GREER, Winfield, Chairman.
On motion it was ordered that the nomination be made as in the publishedcall.
Skipped all of the resolutions!
On motion the Convention proceeded to an informal ballot for Representative,with the following result.
JAMES McDERMOTT, 32; M. M. JEWETT, 16; S. M. BALL, 10; A. H. BECK, 4;J. B. BROWN, 3; J. B. FAIRBANK, 1. On motion the nomination of Mr. McDermottwas made unanimous.
Convention proceeded to ballot for the following officers.
County Attorney:
E. S. Torrance 37; J. I. Mitchell 29.
District Clerk:
James Kelly 35, E. P. Hickok 19; W. W. Walton 12.
Probate Judge:
T. H. Johnson 52; _____ Millspaugh 13; J. B. Parmlee 1.
Superintendent of Public Instruction:
T. A. Wilkinson 38, J. B. Parmlee 25; S. W. Greer 3.
The ballot for delegates to the Congressional Convention at Lawrenceto nominate three members of Congress and State Presidential electors, resultedas follows--four delegates: J. P. Short; F. E. Collins; and E. C. Manningand W. M. Pickering as alternates.
The ballot for delegates to the State Convention at Topeka to nominateState officers, etc., resulted in the election of J. A. Myton and H. O.Meigs as delegates, and Messrs. Webb and Bonnewell as alternates.
Winfield Messenger, August 30, 1872.
A dwelling house and two lots for sale. For particulars inquire of L.J. Webb.
Winfield Messenger, August 30, 1872.
We call attention to the card of Foster & Webb. Mr. Foster was oneof the oldest attorneys of Missouri, and comes among us well recommended.We wish the new firm success.
Winfield Messenger, September 20, 1872.
L. J. Webb, of this place, is the member of the republican State CentralCommittee from this district.
Winfield Messenger, September 20, 1872.
James Foster has gone to Arkansas after a portion of his household furniture,which he was unable to bring with him. He will return in a week or so.
Next item puzzles me...were they referring to Leland J. Webb?
Winfield Messenger, October 4, 1872.
There were some very interesting specimens of Cowley County salt andcoal, also gypsum, and some stalactites from a cave in Tisdale Township,exhibited by Mrs. Magness.
There were placed on exhibition, but no premiums awarded, a cane, a beautifulspecimen of wood carving by Mr. Webb; two telescope rifles by Mr. Wigton,sewing machines by Mr. Boyer and Mr. Best, school desks by Mr. Boyer, Mr.Greer, Mr. Best, and Mr. Brower.
Winfield Messenger, October 11, 1872.
We notice a new building being erected near Mr. Webb's residence.
[PROCEEDINGS OF THE DISTRICT CONVENTION.]
Winfield Messenger, Friday, October 18, 1872. Front Page.
RECAP.
Convention temporary chairman: J. W. Custer.
Convention temporary secretary: L. J. Webb.
Credential committee member: John Irwin, Cowley County.
Named as delegates from Cowley County: John Irwin, C. R. Mitchell, E.C. Manning, R. L. Walker, and L. J. Webb.
L. J. Webb was chosen permanent secretary.
On motion of T. B. Murdock, of Butler county, the convention proceededto an informal ballot for Judge with the following result: S. P. Moore,of Howard Co., 5; J. M. Balderston, of Sedgwick, 5; W. P. Campbell, of Butler,10; C. Rizer, of Greenwood, 5. Total votes cast: 30. On motion of Col. Manningof Cowley County, the convention decided that it required a majority ofall the votes cast to nominate. On motion of Col. Manning, the conventionproceeded to a formal ballot, with the following result: Moore, 5; Fairbank,5; Campbell, 10; Rizer, 5; Balderston, 5. Convention continued to vote until6 o'clock, when it adjourned for supper without making a nomination. Aftersupper, the balloting continued till ten o'clock when W. P. Campbell, ofButler County, was nominated on the 63rd ballot. The following is the resultof the ballot: Campbell 16; Rizer 12. Judge Campbell was then declared nominated,and in a few brief remarks, thanked the convention for the nomination.
Member of Judicial committee for District:
C. R. Mitchell, Cowley County.
W. P. Hackney, Sumner County.
Winfield Messenger, October 18, 1872.
Mr. Webb's house is receiving a coat of paint.
Winfield Messenger, October 18, 1872.
L. J. Webb and family contemplate going to Pennsylvania to spend thewinter. We wish them a pleasant visit with old friends.
Winfield Messenger, November 1, 1872. Front Page.
ATTORNEYS AT LAW.
FOSTER & WEBB. [JAMES FOSTER/L. J. WEBB]
ATTORNEYS AT LAW AND NOTARIES PUBLIC. And will Practice in all the Stateand Federal Courts. Business at the U. S. Land Office made a specialty.Office on South Main Street, Winfield, Kansas.
Next item refers to Mart Robinson. MAW
Winfield Messenger, November 8, 1872.
Mr. Robinson, cashier of Read's bank, has bought Mr. Webb's residence.
Winfield Courier, February 15, 1873.
Walnut Valley Times, February 21, 1873.
The testimony in the case of the recent investigation of Judge H. G.Webb, who has resigned to avoid impeachment, is of a very damaging character.It shows that Webb sat as a judge in a case in which he had been previouslyemployed as counsel for one of the parties, and that his rulings and decisionswere all in favor of his former client; that he had improper communicationwith a juror in the case of Phillips vs. George in the Cherokee County districtcourt; that in the cae of the State vs. Hopkins and Hopkins he drove a witness,Charles Butts, a Cincinnati detective who had been employed to work up thecase, from the stand, telling said witness that he was a professional liarand hypocrite, and "you cannot testify in my court." That thebooks of one Wiggins, of Baxter Springs, contain entries proving that Wigginspaid him (Webb) $275 in money and goods for Mayor Boyd, of Baxter, who killedTaylor, the city marshal of that place, and who was acquitted before Webbwhen tried for the offense, etc.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, March 13, 1873.
There will be a meeting of the Republican voters of the several townshipsin the county, in which there are no Township Clubs, on Saturday, March22, 1873, at 2 o'clock, p.m., for the purpose of electing a Township Clubconsisting of three members, the Chairman of which shall be a member ofthe Republican Central Committee of the county. By order of the Committee.L. J. WEBB, Chairman.
C. E. MITCHELL, Sec'y.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 10, 1873.
L. J. Webb, Esq., has purchased Wm. Boyer's book store and news depot.Webb will make it a popular resort if anybody can. His enterprise and affabilityassure success.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 1, 1873.
Is as long as I can credit. Parties knowing themselves indebted to mewill please settle now or their bills will be presented. I shall settleup the 1st of each month.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 8, 1873.
Cowley County-Splendid Location-Excellent Water-Populous-EducationalInterests-Mills, Bridges, Fair Grounds-New School Buildings and Churches-$10,000Court House, and $2,500 School House on foot, etc.
Cowley County, Kansas, is the fifth from the east line of the State,in the southern tier of counties. It is situated mainly on the northernside of the Arkansas River, that stream flowing through the southwest portionfor a distance of twenty-five or thirty miles. Walnut Creek flows throughthe central part of the western half, from north to south, emptying intothe Arkansas about two miles below Arkansas City. Grouse Creek flows inthe same direction through the east half, and empties into the Arkansaswithin the "Cherokee strip." The country is otherwise wateredby Big Dutch creek, Little Dutch creek, and numerous other streams, fedby springs of excellent water; so that it is abundantly supplied with water,and is quite populous. It contains about twenty-five hundred voters. Wewere not a little surprised to find so many and such an excellent classof people in this border county, blooming and beautiful as these bottomsare. There is also a thick growth of timber along the streams. The soilis excellent and all kinds of crops that are raised in this climate areraised here. The county contains 4,320 quarter sections of land, all ofwhich is suitable either for culture or grazing.
The city of Winfield--for it was recently incorporated as such--and thesurrounding country is settled up by an enlightened and intelligent as wellas enterprising people. It is much here as it is in the older settled States.
Some idea of the interest they take in educational matters may be obtainedfrom the number of schoolhouses they have built within three or four years.Thirty-five are finished, and three are in course of construction; of thesethirty-eight, thirty-seven have been and will be--as soon as completed--furnishedwith the patent gothic desks, and seats to correspond. There are also tobe from thirty to forty additional houses built in the county the presentseason.
A rock school building, forty feet square and two stories, with basem*nt,has been erected by the good people of Winfield. The furniture is of thebest manufacture and latest improvements. The building will be heated bya furnace. The structure was finished in October last, at a cost of $5,000.The Teachers' Association of the Thirteenth Judicial District--embracingsix counties--was held in this building last week, closing on Friday the18th inst. Assistant State Superintendent Felter was in attendance and greatlypleased the people, and all who attended were delighted with the exercises.
An unusual degree of enterprise on the part of these people for so newa county, has been manifested in their arrangements for County Fairs. Neartown, on the south, they have enclosed about twenty acres of beautiful groundwith a good board fence, and furnished it with suitable buildings. The halfmile track is one of the finest we have seen anywhere. It is beautifullylevel and smooth. Last year they furnished two fairs, an agricultural anda horse fair. At the latter there was some of the finest trotting stockin the country in attendance, including the famous Goldsmith Maid.
Two very fine bridges of Baker's patent have been built by Hobson, ofWichita, across the Walnut, one a quarter of a mile west of town, and theother three-quarters south.
We had the pleasure of a little drive around in company with Hon. L.J. Webb, to see the Fair Grounds and the two new mills, one just below thebridge on the west of town, and the other on a narrow peninsula a half milesouth. The former is built of rock, three stories high. Two run of burrshave been put in, and it is the intention to add two more. It is run bywater power. There is a splendid rock dam attached. Messrs. Bliss &Blandin, proprietors.
The building of the latter has been attended by a marked degree of enterprise,in the construction of a tunnel one hundred and thirty feet in length, fromthe Walnut above to the same stream around a bench, at a cost thus far of$5,000 or $7,000, and it will cost to complete it about as much more. Thebuilding is a three story frame, 24 x 36, and will have a basem*nt in addition.One burr has already been put in, and it is the intention to add three more.Messrs. Koehler & Covert are the proprietors. So that this communitywill have no want of good mills, as well as school facilities.
Churches also are not wanting. The Baptists and Methodists have eacha neat church in Winfield. The former is stone and the latter frame. Thereare also organizations of the Presbyterian, Congregationalist, and Christiansocieties.
Besides, the County Commissioners have advertised for bids for the purposeof erecting a $10,000 courthouse. The proposition was first made on conditionthe city would build a $2,500 jail, which the City Council has accepted.We saw the plans and specifications of the courthouse, which is to be atwo story brick, 40 x 50, with stone finish. The first floor will containeight offices and a hall eight feet wide. The courtroom will occupy theentire upper story, except space for the stairways. The bonds have beennegotiated; and the City Council have appointed a committee to perfect plansand specifications for the erection of a jail at once.
The Kansas Nebraska Railroad, which is to intercept the C. B. U. P. Road,is to pass through Winfield. Subsidies to the amount of $150,000 have beenvoted by this county to take that amount of the railroad stock.
At present daily stages of the Southwestern Stage and Omnibus Companyrun north and south from Arkansas City to Wichita. A tri-weekly line isalso run to Independence (east) and the same to Oxford and Wellington, west.
Winfield polls about 170 votes, which would give it a population of 700to 800.
Two newspapers are very well sustained, viz, the Winfield COURIER andthe Cowley County Telegram. The former has just removed into moreconvenient quarters--over the "Old Log Store"--and has a veryfine office. This office does the county printing for L. J. Webb, to whomit was awarded. Jas. Kelly is the editor and proprietor. Allison & Steinbargerare editors and proprietors of the Telegram, which is a well printed,seven-column weekly, and has a good circulation.
Society here is excellent. It is like society in the old States. Lastevening, through the kindness of Maj. Davis, we enjoyed the pleasure ofattending an exceedingly pleasant social party at Major and Mrs. Davis'furnished suit of rooms in the Lagonda House. Mrs. Peyton, the landlady,from the old Buckeye State, was present; and Mrs. Davis, formerly of St.Joseph, and Miss Eudailey, from Kentucky. Messrs. Black and Byler entertainedthe company with very agreeable and beautiful, comical and sentimental songsand music, the latter upon the guitar, violin, and banjo. The music washighly appreciated by all, as well as the excellent lemonade and cake. ToMrs. Sprague, a genuine Massachusetts Yankee, the party is indebted formany a good hearty laugh. R. A. H.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 15, 1873.
[Skipped: A long editorial attacking Allison of the Telegram.]
JOHN MAC: Yes. It is generally understood that Allison, of the Telegram,did try to get a hundred dollars out of Major Durrow, by promising to supportthe railroad bond proposition.
EDITOR COURIER: I have heard it rumored that the editor of the Telegramoffered to sell to Maj. Durrow for "one hundred dollars" the supportand influence of his paper in the recent railroad bond election. I livein Winfield Township, am a farmer, and my name is not E. C. Manning, L.J. Webb, etc.; therefore, I do not want Mr. Allison to accuse any of thosegentlemen of writing this inquiry. I simply make the inquiry in self-defense,as I always believed Mr. Allison to be the friend of my interest as wellas of other farmers in the county. I did support the bonds and I know hedid not through his paper, therefore if the compromise of principle wasoffered at a price to Maj. Durrow, I and many other readers of the COURIERand Telegram would be pleased to know it. T. M.
Winfield Township, May 10, 1873.
[T. M.:--Alas, for poor, weak humanity, and Mr. Allison of the Telegramin particular! We are afraid that it is too true. There can be no doubtthat Mr. Allison did promise to support the bond proposition for a consideration,and that consideration was "one hundred dollars." Major Durrowrefused to pay him his price, and he then threatened to oppose the bonds.--EDITOR.]
Father of Leland J. Webb mentioned in next article.
[LAND PATENTS: PART OF THE OSAGE CEDED LAND.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, May 27, 1873.
W. C. Webb has filed in court a petition for a mandamus on the secretaryof the interior to compel him to issue land patents for certain lands inKansas. This land is a part of the Osage ceded land, and it is said thatthis case is a test one in which two or three hundred thousand acres areinvolved.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 5, 1873.
L. J. Webb has just received a new lot of the choicest Havana cigars.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 5, 1873.
The many friends of Mrs. L. J. Webb will be pleased to learn of her returnto Winfield. Her eastern visit must have been of a very pleasant nature,as she is now the picture of perfect health.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 19, 1873.
New Law Firm. It will be seen by reference to the law card of L. J. Webb,Esq., that he has associated with him in the practice of the professionMr. J. C. Bigger of St. Louis, Mo. Mr. Bigger brings with him the highesttestimonials of his proficiency as a well read and enterprising young lawyer,and the new firm under its two wise heads, will no doubt share a large portionof the public patronage.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, June 26, 1873.
Diaries for 1873, for sale at Webb's for less than cost.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 10, 1873.
The ball given at the Lagonda House on the night of the Fourth by Messrs.Webb & Jackson was a very brilliant affair. There were fifty or sixtycouples present. The supper was furnished by Mr. Peyton, proprietor of theLagonda.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, July 31, 1873.
ADS.
Wanted. Boarders, at W. W. Howard's. Two doors east of the Meat Market.
The Old Log Store is termed by some to be a bee hive, from thefact that they are most always busy.
Triplett has just received some fine California Wines, Imported Gin andBrandy, and bottled "Belfast Ginger Ale." All nice for familyuse.
Choice of coffee and the best of teas always on hand at the old log store.
Archie Stewart, Stone Cutter, Mason, Bricklayer, and Plasterer is preparedto fill all orders in his line. Mr. Stewart is a good workman and guaranteesto give entire satisfaction. Give him a call.
All kinds of legal blanks at Webb's.
Deeds, Bonds for deeds, Real estate Mortgages, Chattel Mortgages, etc.,for sale at Webb's.
Don't fail to call at the Diamond corner as Paul wants to see you.
Diamond Corner is selling the best New Orleans flour at prices to suitthe times.
Do not fail to go to the Old Log Store and see those shoes made by hand.Whole stock doubled soled and sewed, $2.00 a pair.
Great variety of cheap hosiery and notions at McMillen & Shields'old log store.
The Old Log Store (kept by McMillen & Shields) is establishing avery large trade, owing to their bringing on good goods and selling themat very reasonable rates.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, August 7, 1873.
W. M. Boyer has bought the book store and news office formerly ownedby L. J. Webb, and will continue the business in his name. Boyer is a thoroughbusinessman and all that is needed to find it out is to patronize him.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, September 11, 1873.
Let Allison tell if the COURIER has the ablest editorial corps of anypaper in the Southwest: J. B. Fairbank, E. C. Manning, T. H. Johnson, anduntil recently, L. J. Webb. We expect before long to add two or three moreto our staff. And, by the way, it accounts for the Telegram's editorialbeing so thin. Allison's friends have all forsaken him, and he tries towrite them himself.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 23, 1873.
At half past 2 o'clock the soldiers, to the number of about 150, fellinto line at the tap of the drum, and preceded by the Winfield Martial band,marched to the Methodist Church, which had been kindly tendered for theiruse. The meeting was called to order by T. A. Blanchard. L. J. Webb waschosen Chairman, and James Kelly, Secretary.
The chairman stated the object of the meeting to be to organize a permanentSoldiers' Union.
On motion a committee consisting of A. A. Jackson, A. D. Keith, Capt.Wm. H. H. McArthur, Capt. Henry Barker, and Col. E. C. Manning were appointedon permanent organization.
During the absence of the committee, D. C. Scull entertained the meetingwith a few appropriate remarks.
The committee on permanent organization reported as follows.
Mr. Chairman: Your committee on permanent organization, recommend thefollowing as a permanent organization for Cowley County, of the Union Soldiersof the late war.
1st. The association of all soldiers into an organization to be knownas the Cowley County Soldiers' Association.
2nd. That said association elect a president, 3 vice presidents, secretary,and assistant secretary, and treasurer, and adopt a constitution.
3rd. That said association request its members to subscribe the constitutionas an evidence of membership, giving the required company or battalion towhich each belonged, and to attend the meetings of the association.
4th. That said association meet semi-annually for celebrations, and asmuch oftener as business requires. A. A. JACKSON, Chairman.
The above was unanimously adopted. The roll being called; the following"Boys in Blue," answered to their names.
C. J. Duncan, Co. B, 1st Bat., 16th U. S. Cav.
Enoch Maris, Co. F, 4 U. S. Cav.
J. A. Barr, Co. C, 2nd Ill. light Art.
James Renfro, Co. K, 98th Ill. Inf.
J. P. Carter, Co. K, 80th Ill. Inf.
Z. T. Swigart, Co. D, 124 Ill. Inf.
W. F. M. Lacey, Co. K, 33rd Ill. Vet. Inf.
James Kelly, Co. A, 84 Ill. Vol. Inf.
A. T. Shenneman, Co. I, 7 Ill. Cav.
W. T. Dougherty, 45 Ill. Vol. Inf.
Frank Cox, Co. F, 61 Ill. Vol. Inf.
Max Shoeb, Co. D, 24 Ill. Vol. Inf.
A. A. Jackson, 12 Ill. Vol. Inf.
J. C. Bigger, Co. F, 92 Ill. Vol. Infantry.
Curtis Wilson, Co. D, 119th Ill. Inf.
Stephen Johnson, Co. E, 92nd Ill. Inf.
Jas. Benbroke, Co. K. 20th Ill. Inf.
J. L. Shaw, Co. K. 17th Ill. Inf.
H. H. Causey, Co. F, 11th Ill Inf.
Thomas Chappin, Co. I, 83 Ill. Inf.
T. W. Morris, Co. E, 92nd O Cav.
Sam Darrah, Co. K. 1 Ohio Cav.
L. B. Paul, Co. G, 125 Ohio Vol. Inf.
C. M. Wood, Co. C, 96 Ohio Vol. Inf.
P. Himrod, 105 Ohio Vol. Inf.
G. W. Foughty, Co. B, 57 Ohio Inf.
B. B. Dougherty, Co. A, 59th Ohio Inf.
Samuel Harvey, Co. K, 55 Ohio Inf.
Joseph Smith, Co. B, 1st Ohio Art.
John W. Millspaugh, Co. B, 19th Ohio Inf.
David S. Beadie, Co. G, 14th Ohio Inf.
W. H. H. McArthur, Co. G, 31st Ohio Inf.
Harry Smith, Co. Co. R, 14th Ind. Inf.
S. H. Wells, Co. G, 7th Ind. Cav.
W. E. Doud, Co. F, 151st Ind. Vol. Inf.
D. C. Scull, Co. C, 13 Ind. Vol. Inf.
A. H. Green, 9 Ind. Vol. Inf.
H. Parks, Co. H, 1st Ind. Inf.
A. B. Odell, Co. C, 86th Ind. Inf.
B. F. Harrod, Co. H, 57th Ind. Inf.
L. K. Barnewell, Co. K. 13th Ind. Inf.
H. S. Greer, Co. I, 53rd Ind. Inf.
W. B. Doty, Co. F, 2 Kan. Cav.
E. C. Manning, Co. H, 3 Kas Cav.
I. D. Newton, Co. D, 6th Kas. Cav.
H. L. Barker, Co. G, 15th Kansas Inf.
G. H. McIntyre, Co. C, 11th Kan. Inf.
Burt Covert, Co. H, 12 N. Y. Cav.
W. Q. Mansfield, 92 N. Y. Vol. In.
J. P. Short, Co. M, 8 N. Y. Artillery.
W. M. Boyer, Co. G, 15 N. Y. Vol. Cav.
Joel Mack, Co. M, 12th N. Y. Cav.
E. P. Hickock, Co. E, 2nd N. Y. Inf.
T. A. Blanchard, Co. K, 7th Mo. Cav.
E. Davis, Co. C, 4 Mo. Vol. Cav.
G. W. Robinson, Co. C, 3rd Mo. Cav.
I. N. Breman, Co. K, 1st Mo. Cav.
S. C. Cunningham, Co. D, 8th Mo. Inf.
B. E. Murphy, Co, I, 8th Mo. Cav.
T. C. Bird, Co. C, 31st Is. Inf.
W. M. Berky, 23 Iowa Vol. Inf.
C. A. Seward, Co. C, 2nd Iowa light Art.
Wm. Seucaney, Co. D, 13th Iowa Inf.
J. B. Nipp, Co. C, 40 Ky. Inf.
Reuben Rogers, 25 Ky. Inf.
W. K. Falar, Co. B, 26 Ky. Inf.
C. L. Rood, Co. A, 1st Mich. Cav.
W. H. Melville, Co. C, 4th Mich. Inf.
Oliver Decker, Co. H, 12th Mich. Inf.
John McClay, Co. E, 55th Penn. Inf.
E. S. Torrance, Co. G, 135 Pa. Vol. Inf.
D. N. Egbert, Philadelphia Union League Bat.
James Stewart, Co. F, 1st Col. Cav.
A. D. Keith, Co. G, 2nd Col. Inf.
M. L. Brooks, Co. H, 1st Tenn. Cav.
John Brooks, Co. C, 4th Tenn. Cav.
Archie Stewart, Co. G, 5th Vermont Inf.
H. H. Stewart, 2d Vermont light Art.
M. W. Everleth, Co. F, 1 Maine Cav.
J. B. Fairbank, 36 Mass. Inf.
L. J. Webb, Co. E, 16th Wis. Inf.
A. J. Truesdale, Co. K. 1st Minn. Inf.
The following were elected to hold the respective offices until the nextmeeting.
Mr. Wood, on assuming the chair, made a few brief appropriate remarks.
The following were appointed a committee to make arrangements for thenext meeting.
A. A. Jackson, L. J. Webb, J. P. Short, E. S. Torrance, and James Kelly.
A committee to draft constitution and by-laws to be submitted at thenext meeting was appointed as follows: Col. E. C. Manning, Capt. H. S. Barker,A. D. Keith, John W. Mills-paugh, and Capt. Wm. H. H. McArthur.
Several anecdotes and reminiscences of army life were told by Capt. Carter,Enoch Maris, D. C. Scull, and E. C. Manning.
"Rally Round the Flag Boys," "Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, theBoys are Marching," and other old songs were splendidly rendered byMiss Emma Leffingwell, organist, Dr. Egbert, John Swain, A. A. Jackson,and Capt. McArthur; the entire assembly joining in the chorus.
A rising vote of thanks was tendered to Miss Leffingwell for the music,which was given with a will. The following resolution was offered by L.J. Webb, and unanimously adopted.
Resolved, That we extend a cordial invitation to the soldiersof the Union Army in Cowley County, to meet with us at our next meeting,and to become members of the society; and that the papers of the countypublish this resolution and the proceedings of this meeting.
On motion the meeting adjourned to meet at Winfield on the 29th day ofNovember, 1873. C. M. WOOD, Chairman.
JAMES KELLY, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 30, 1873.
Among the lawyers in attendance at the District Court from abroad, wenotice Col. J. M. Alexander of Leavenworth; Hon. Wm. P. Hackney, of Wellington;Gen. Rogers of Eureka, and Judge M. L. Adams of Wichita. From Arkansas Cityare C. R. Mitchell and A. J. Pyburn. From Dexter, Hon. James McDermott.Our own bar is, as usual, ably represented by Fairbank, Torrance & Green,Webb & Bigger, Manning & Johnson, Louis T. Michener, Pryor &Kager, and T. H. Suits.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 30, 1873.
The members of the Fraternity of Odd Fellows will give a Sociable onWednesday evening, November 5th, in the large room at the Courthouse. Eveningentertainments will be of a social character. Supper will be provided atan early hour.
Mrs. M. L. Mullen, Mrs. J. J. Todd, Mrs. S. W. Greer, Mrs. Braidwood,Miss J. Stewart, Mrs. J. Bullene, Mrs. Jeffreys, L. J. Webb, T. A. Blanchard,A. S. Williams, G. W. Martin, Mrs. Fannie V. Curns, A. G. Jackson.
P. M. Shell, J. W. Curns, A. J. Thompson, Miss Ada Millington, Miss Quarles,Mrs. McMasters.
J. J. Williams, P. M. Sholl, F. D. Davis.
Miss Lewelia Blandin, Miss Kate Lowery, Miss Kate Porter, Miss Braidwood,J. Swain.
Mrs. Flint, Miss J. Stewart, Mrs. Capt. Davis, J. J. Williams, J. Swain,Dr. Houx.
By order of the general Committee.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 30, 1873.
NOTICE. All persons indebted to C. C. Stevens are notified that theiraccounts have been left with the undersigned for collection, and they arerequested to call and settle at once.
Winfield, Oct. 29th, 1873.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 13, 1873.
The Board of County Commissioners of Cowley County met in the CountyClerk's office November 7th, 1873. Present: Frank Cox and O. C. Smith.
Proceeded to canvass the votes of the election held Nov. 4th, 1873, whichresulted in the election of the following officers who were declared dulyelected.
For representative of 75th district: William Martin.
For County Clerk: M. G. Troup.
For County Treasurer: E. B. Kager.
For Register of Deeds: N. C. McCulloch.
For Sheriff: R. L. Walker.
For Coroner: Sam Moore.
For County Surveyor: W. W. Walton.
For Commissioner, first district, John Manly.
For Commissioner, second district. M. S. Roseberry.
For Commissioner, third district, R. F. Burden.
NEXT ITEM RE ROAD ILLEGIBLE!
Petition of A. A. Mills for county road was granted with E. H. Boyer,James Utt, and G. W. Gordenhein appointed as viewers. Survey ordered Dec.1st, 1873.
Time was extended on William Steel's road to Nov. 26th, 1873.
Ordered that the contract with L. J. Webb for County printing, be declaredvoid.
Ordered that the County printing be awarded to C. M. Scott, of the ArkansasCity Traveler, and James Kelly of the Winfield COURIER as per agreementon file in the County Clerk's office.
Bill of E. P. Hickok, rejected.
Bill of A. A. Jackson, County Clerk's fee, allowed $218.20.
Bill of J. P. Short et al, road viewers, allowed $14.50.
Bill of A. H. Green, office rent, allowed $40.
Bill of W. W. Walton, surveyor, $4.00.
Bill of Judges and Clerks of election Nov. 4th, 1873, allowed $286.80.
Bill of Frank Cox County Commissioner allowed $12.40.
Bill of O. C. Smith County Commissioner allowed $8.00.
Board adjourned. FRANK COX, Chairman.
A. A. Jackson, Clerk.
[EDITORIAL PAGE: THE TELEGRAM SOUNDS OFF.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 20, 1873.
The circ*mstances are just these: A short time ago, our readers willremember the Telegram was made by Mr. L. J. Webb the County printer,the official County Paper. Not liking the Telegram they laid theirheads together to concoct some plan whereby they could vent their spiteagainst the Telegram, and thereby deprive it of the County Printing.They agreed to annul the contract with Mr. Webb, but then came a littlehitch between Cox and Smith. Cox wanted to award the printing to the "COURIER"and Smith wanted his pet, the "Traveler," to get thebenefit of the change.
The other Commissioner being absent, neither could carry his point withoutthe assistance of the other, and consequently after a considerable amountof snapping and snarling over the bone, they agreed that both should havehis way. As the sequel to this, an agreement was entered into with Kellywhereby he is to receive ALL THE COUNTY PRINTING for which he is to receivethe fees allowed by law, and in addition to this five cents per line forall Commissioners' Proceedings. Another contract with Scott of the "Traveler,"was also entered into whereby he is to be furnished ALL THE COUNTY PRINTINGfor which he is to receive the same fees allowed Kelly for the same services.This makes each the "official paper," when the law provides forbut one--and by this they pay two dollars where the law allows but one.
Now the contract between the county and Mr. Webb, was that ALL such workshould be done FREE OF CHARGE. So you see by this contract being annulledand the Commissioners satisfying their feelings of spite, the county nowpays two dollars for the same work which they were formerly having donefree of charge.
Thus the people of the county are put to over $1,500.00 extra expenseper year just because Manning and the Commissioners do not like the Telegram.This is economy with a vengeance. Out upon such economy and the men whoso defraud the people. The jail is too good a place for such men--and indeedwe think that hanging is nearly too good.
It makes not a cent's difference to us. We were receiving no money forthe services we were rendering the County, and consequently can lose nomore in the change than any other taxpayer in the county, but we do despiseto see any set of men so devilish mean as to gratify their hates at theexpense of the people. As the editor of a peoples' paper, we feel that itis our duty to show up all such frauds, and to not be "mealy mouthed"in our criticisms of such officials.
These same officials we had occasion to show up several times last winter,and since they have been pretty careful not to dive too deep into the trickery.But now that the election is over and their term of office has nearly runout, they make one grand grab so as to gain all for themselves and friendsthat it is possible to wrench from the people.
And then to enter into these contracts while already under one with Mr.Webb, whereby he can make them pay to him all moneys likely to come to himunder such contract. This shows business tact, does it not? It certainlytakes two to make a contract and just as certainly one party cannot of hisown free will annul such contract--and so long as Mr. Webb holds himselfin readiness to fulfill his part, just so long can he hold the county forthe fees justly due him. If he had broken his contract, they had his bondsmento go back on. But did they do this? Not much! His bondsmen were Kelly,Manning, and Johnson, and if they sued on the contract, these worthies wouldstand the loss. By their own action they clearly recognized the fact thatMr. Webb had in every way come up to his contract. Yet they make a showof annulling it, as if he had no right in the matter at all. This arbitraryway of doing things might have been appropriate for the dark ages, but isnot to be borne by the people of this age, and these men should be madeto pay the amount of extra expense, to which they have put the County. Telegram.
The foregoing tirade from the little boy is piteous. If the Telegramdid not lie, it would be out of original matter for its readers. The firstlie [We think it best to call things by their right names.] in the above,is the statement that the Commissioners have by their action squandered$1,500.00 of the county money. The contract for publishing the proceedingsof the board of Commissioners in both papers at five cents per line amountsto only regular rates for such advertisem*nts in one paper, to-wit: Tencents per line. The COURIER and the Traveler reach about everyintelligent family in the county, and the County Board is desirous thatthe largest circulation shall be given to its proceedings, and did wiselyby directing that the proceedings be published in both papers. And the publicationof said proceedings will not amount to one fifth the amount stated by theTelegram. Just so many and no more blanks will be printed and used,and it will make no difference, so far as expense is concerned, whetherthe Traveler or COURIER does the work. This work will cost thesame it always has, so that there is no additional expense here. The balanceof the county printing does not amount to enough to speak of.
The second lie in the above article is the statement that Mr.Webb had made the Telegram the official paper of the county. Mr.Webb never had the authority to do this, and if he attempted to, he failed.If the county printing had been given to all three of the papers so as toinclude the Telegram, there would have been no howl.
Another lie is that "all the county printing is awardedto the Traveler and COURIER." For the most expensive and extensiveof the county printing is the blank work, and of course only so many blankswill be printed in any event no matter where done.
Another lie is the statement that this action of the Board causes"the county to pay two dollars where the law only allows one."There are no legal rates for Commissioners' proceedings, and the two paperscharge just half regular rates and thereby put the reports of county businessinto twice as many readers' hands as they would be if published in onlyone of them, and into four times as many hands as they would be if publishedin the Telegram. In fact, the Commissioners consider it a moreacceptable policy to the people to pay regular rates for publishing thecounty business in papers having a large circulation and some characterthan it would be to have it published free in a paper without either circulationor character.
Mr. Webb did violate his agreement with the Board of County Commissioners.The assertion that the violation of the contract by Webb made his bondsmenresponsible is rather hard on Webb, who is thereby admitted to be irresponsibleindividually. The Telegram had rendered the county no service,and of course was "receiving no money" for the said service.
The Commissioners have done in this matter what they consideredfor the best interest of the whole county. The falsehoods and howls of theTelegram have not deterred them in the past from exercising theirown judgment in such matters.
The Telegram would have the people believe that theCounty Board were bad men, but as one single evidence of their integrityand official ability, we call attention to the beautiful Courthouse erectedby them at less expense than any similar building in the state.
[ANOTHER EDITORIAL: TRAVELER SOUNDS OFF RE COUNTY PRINTING.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 20, 1873.
At the last meeting of the Commissioners, the award for the county printingwas again let. For sometime past the county has had no official paper, andthe proceedings of the Board, which the law requires to be published, wasleft undone. Knowing this to be the fact, we repaired to Winfield and putin the claims of the Traveler for the printing, as it has doublethe circulation of either of the other two, and is largely taken in partsof the county where the others are not.
Mr. Kelly then made his claims that the printing should be done at thecounty seat, and that the COURIER had a circulation where the Travelerhad not, and in order to benefit the greater number of people, it was decidedto award it to both, and divide the job work. This, we believe, will givegreater satisfaction to all than any previous award, except to the Telegram,who will, more than likely, howl as usual, because he was not there to seethat his claims were made known, and again the Traveler is theofficial paper of Cowley County.
Traveler.
Data that may be of interest:
I SKIPPED ON EDITORIAL PAGE THE "NOTICE TO TAX PAYERS" BY
E. B. KAGER, COUNTY TREASURER, WHICH SHOWED THE PERCENTAGE FOR STATE,COUNTY, TOWNSHIP, AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS. AT THIS TIME:
FOR STATE TAX, 6 MILLS ON THE DOLLAR.
FOR COUNTY TAX, 12 MILLS ON THE DOLLAR.
INTEREST ON BONDS IN CRESWELL TOWNSHIP: 3 MILLS.
INTEREST ON BONDS IN WINFIELD TOWNSHIP: 6 MILLS.
CORPORATION TAX OF WINFIELD: 10 MILLS.
CORPORATION TAX OF ARKANSAS CITY: 8 MILLS.
THIS WAS PRINTED IN NOVEMBER 20, 1873, ISSUE.
[BIG AD.]
Winfield Courier, November 20, 1873.
A CORDIAL INVITATION To participate in the festivities of the day ishereby extended to all the soldiers residing in the county. The followingPROGRAMME will be observed.
AT 10, A.M. THE Reception Committee will commence to make up the Rosterand distribute tickets for DINNER To all whose names are entered thereon.
AT 11, A.M. SOLDIERS will fall into line, in marching order, on MainStreet, the right resting on Ninth Avenue, under the direction of the officerof the day, CAPT. McARTHUR, And march to the COURTHOUSE Where an addressof welcome will be delivered by Captain S. C. Smith, The Mayor of Winfield,and the organization of the Soldiers' Union completed.
AT 1, P.M. SOLDIERS will fall in for dinner.
AT 3, P.M. THERE will be a meeting in the Courthouse, and addresses willbe delivered by the following soldiers: Chaplain E. P. Hickock, Maj. J.B. Fairbank, Capt. James McDermott, A. D. Keith, S. M. Fall, Maj. T. B.Ross, Rev. N. L. Rigby, J. C. Bigger, Esq., and other soldiers present.
AT 7, P.M. THERE WILL BE A GRAND BALL! And dancing will be in order,to conclude the festivities of the day.
The proceedings of the day will be enlivened with appropriate music bythe Winfield and Arkansas City Cornet Bands. A. A. JACKSON, Chairman Committeeon Arrangements.
J. P. SHORT, Secretary.
Committee on Music. T. A. Wilkinson, Chairman, Mrs. W. D. Roberts, MissEmma Leffingwell, L. J. Webb and John Kirby.
Winfield Courier, November 27, 1873.
The members of the Winfield Dancing Club are hereby notified that a meetingwill be held at Webb & Bigger's law office tomorrow (Friday) evening.All the members are earnestly requested to be present. By order of the committee.
Winfield Courier, November 27, 1873.
Notice is hereby given to all persons not to purchase a certain promissorynote executed by Michael Miller to Hiram Brotherton for $500, on the 1stday of November, 1873, due sixty days after date with interest at the rateof ten percent per annum after maturity, as payment thereof has been stoppedby the creditors of said Brotherton.
Winfield, Nov. 25th, 1873.
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1873.
The members of the Winfield Dancing Club are notified that a specialmeeting will be held next Monday night at Webb & Bigger's law officefor the transaction of important business. By order of the President.
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1873.
The Soldiers' ball Thursday evening was well attended, about 90 couplesbeing present, and was acknowledged by all as being the finest affair ofthe season. The courtroom makes a splendid dancing-hall, and everybody seemedto appreciate it. Messrs. Webb and Jackson deserve praise for the interestmanifested by them to make the ball pleasant and enjoyable.
Winfield Courier, December 12, 1873.
To be given for the benefit of Adelphi Lodge, A. F. & A. M. At theCourtroom, Winfield, Kansas, Dec. 25th, 1873.
There will be a public installation of officers of the Lodge at the Baptistchurch at one o'clock P.M. After the Installation there will be a few shortaddresses by members of the order.
Dinner will take place at the courtroom at five o'clock P.M.
A cordial invitation is extended to the public.
After dinner a grand ball will be given at the courtroom. Good musicwill be in atten-dance. A cordial invitation is extended to the fraternityto be present. Special invitations will be given by the Committee to thosenot members of the order.
The following is the list of the committees appointed for the occasion.
COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS. A. A. Jackson, T. A. Rice, J. E. Saint, W.M. Boyer, L. J. Webb, J. C. Fuller.
COMMITTEE TO PREPARE TABLES. J. F. Newman, James Parker.
SOLICITING COMMITTEE. A. T. Stewart, S. H. Myton, I. Bing, A. T. Shenneman,J. A. Simpson, J. Swain, T. A. Blanchard, R. B. Saffold, John Rhodes; Mrs.Flint, Mrs. McMasters, Mrs. A. H. Green, Mrs. Brotherton, Mrs. Tousey, Mrs.Limbocker; Miss Jennie Stewart, Miss Lowry, W. W. Limbocker.
RECEPTION COMMITTEE. Dr. Graham, M. L. Read, A. Howland, P. Hill, J.P. Short, Mrs. A. A. Jackson, Mrs. P. Hill, Mrs. Robinson, Miss Ella Quarles,J. L. M. Hill.
TABLE COMMITTEE. A. T. Stewart, J. F. Paul, T. A. Rice, W. M. Boyer,J. E. Saint, J. D. Cochran, J. C. Fuller, John Swain, J. A. Simpson, A.T. Shenneman, A. S. Williams, J. P. Short, Mrs. J. P. Short, Miss Read,Miss Mary Stewart, Mrs. Geo. Oakes, Mrs. J. F. Paul, Mrs. E. Maris, Mrs.J. C. Fuller, Mrs. W. M. Boyer, Mrs. L. R. Paul, Mrs. L. J. Webb, Mrs. J.C. Weathers, Mrs. Newman, Mrs. Howland, Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. W. G. Graham,Mrs. J. D. Cochran, Mrs. C. A. Bliss, Miss Parmelee, Miss Lizzie Graham,Miss Yount.
VOCAL MUSIC COMMITTEE. Mrs. Hickok, Mrs. Brotherton, John Swain, H. Brotherton,Mrs. Green, Miss Newman, Miss Parmelee, Miss Bryant.
TICKET AGENTS. C. A. Bliss, J. Newman, J. C. Weathers.
COMMITTEE ON INVITATION. L. J. Webb, J. F. Paul, T. A. Rice, W. M. Boyer,J. C. Fuller.
FLOOR MANAGERS. A. A. Jackson, L. J. Webb.
Instrumental Music for the Day: J. W. Johnston, J. A. Simpson, J. E.Saint.
Winfield Courier, Friday, December 19, 1873.
The members of the "Winfield Dancing club" are particularlyrequested to attend a meeting of the club at Webb & Bigger's law officeon Wednesday eve Dec. 24th at 7 o'clock.
[COUNTY COMMISSIONERS' PROCEEDINGS.]
Winfield Courier, Friday, December 19, 1873.
Board of County Commissioners met in Clerk's office, December 9, 1873.All present. After a thorough inspection of the work, the Courthouse wasaccepted from the contractors, and the bondsmen discharged.
L. J. Webb appeared for school district No. 45, asking to have one percentof the school tax remitted, it appearing that the same was taxed illegally.County Clerk was instructed to make the necessary change at the district'sexpense. In the matter of dividing tracts of land on tax roll, clerk wasalso instructed to make the change when applied to by the Treasurer.
Ordered that the County Treasurer be allowed to cancel $590.04 in countywarrants.
Bond of Sheriff fixed at $10,000.
Petition of W. B. Norman for section line road was laid over under therule, for want of affidavit.
Petition of James Stewart for change in road granted.
Time on Wm. Steeles' county road extended at request of viewers to December18.
Petition and affidavit of M. A. Graham on personal property laid on thetable.
District Clerk authorized to procure blanks for his office.
Superintendent of Public Instruction was authorized to procure a blackboard and stationery for his office.
The county officers were assigned to the Courthouse on Monday, December15, 1873. After that date no bills for office rent will be allowed.
James Kelly was directed to procure appropriate signs and place the sameon the office doors of the Courthouse.
The County Clerk was directed to have the wood prepared for the stovesin the county offices.
The sheriff was ordered to set up the county stove that is in the DistrictClerk's office in the courtroom of the Courthouse.
The following bills were audited and allowed.
A. A. Jackson, Co. clerk's fees: $449.00
T. A. Wilkins, Co. Supt.: $27.00
E. B. Kager, for tax sale: $8.05
J. M. Young, jailor and sundries: $41.07
James Kelly, Co. printing: $19.50
W. W. Walton, Co. surveyor: $64.80
L. D. Jacobs attending' prisoner Lyon Co. jail: $4.00
T. A. Wilkinson, stationery: $21.60
S. H. Myton, Co. wood: $45.00
S. H. Myton, stoves and pipe: $174.55
A. T. Stewart, ice bill: $6.00
O. C. Smith, gopher scalps: $2.40
E. C. Walton, gopher scalps: $4.20
James Parker, sheriff: $41.50
J. F. Paul, repairing seal: $2.05
Stewart & Simpson, last payment on Courthouse: $4,390.00
Stewart & Simpson, extra work: $131.00
Crain & Byron, books: $206.00
A. S. Williams, juror: $2.80
A. D. Keith, pauper bill: $20.75
W. S. Mullen, chamber for jail: $1.50
H. & Boyle, blankets for jail: $12.75
J. G. Bullene costs in case allowed.
Braden & Buford laid over.
McMillen & Shields paupers bill rejected.
C. M. Scott county printing laid over, not itemized.
A. J. Williams guarding prisoner rejected.
D. A. Byers juror rejected.
O. C. Smith, Commissioner: $12.00
J. D. Maurer, Commissioner: $12.40
Frank Cox, Com. and Supt. Courthouse: $49.40 A. A. JACKSON, Clerk.
Per J. P. SHORT, Deputy.
Description: Brilliancy of a Webb...
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1874.
Captain Dick Walker, the new sheriff, is one of the most popular menin the county. Everybody that knows him bets on him. His personal appearanceis strikingly favorable--
except to criminals. In form, tall, straight, and well proportioned;in motion, lithe, graceful, and dignified, and to those graces are addedan intelligent countenance whose flashing eyes and strong, well turned featuresat once attract the attention of the observer. In repose grand, in actionawful--his is a happy combination of the powers, arts, faculties, graces,and acquirements of the remaining members of the "ring." Withthe length of a Johnson, the sinews of a Green, the muscle of a Torrance,the nerve of a Kelly, the bearing of a Fuller, the decision of a Millington,the address of an Irwin, the brains of a McDermott, the brilliancy of aWebb, and the intuition of a Manning, Dick is calculated to get away withthe baggage of all the passengers he goes for. Girls, he is not married,but wants to--well, you can guess the remainder. His mustache is so ticklish!
[LEGAL NOTICE: APPLETON, NOYES & CO. VS. CHARLES C. STEVENS.]
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1874.
RECAP: George D. Appleton, Nathan D. Noyes, John B. Maude, as partnerstrading under the firm name of Appleton, Noyes & Co., plaintiffs, versusCharles C. Stevens, defendant...Judgment on the first cause of action insaid petition stated for the sum of $861.55 after the same shall have becomedue with interest thereon from and after January 1, 1874, and for the furthersum of $246.00 as alleged in the second cause of action, with interest thereonfrom and after the 7th day of February, 1874, and for the further sum of$11.25 as in the third cause of action alleged in said petition, after thesame shall have become due, with interest thereon from and after Feb. 11,1874, together with the costs of said action, and that the said Chas. C.Stevens must answer the said petition by Feb. 9, 1874. Attachment: Sheriffseized defendant's property: northwest quarter of Section 16, township 33,range 4 east, Cowley Co. Further, Sheriff garnished all bills, notes, accounts,goods, chattels, effects, and property of Charles C. Stevens in the possessionor under the control of L. J. Webb and J. C. Bigger, partners as Webb &Bigger. Said property and effects will be sold and applied to the satisfactionof said judgment.
R. M. RUGGLES & LOUIS T. MICHENER, ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS.
[LONG BROTHERS, PLAINTIFFS, VS. CHARLES C. STEVENS, DEFENDANT.]
Winfield Courier, January 16, 1874.
RECAP: Adam Long and John Long as partners doing business in the nameof Long Brothers, plaintiffs, versus Charles C. Stevens, Defendant. Judgmentdemanded in said petition for $445.74 (with interest from Oct 8, 1873, togetherwith the costs of this action)...defendant must answer said petition byFeb. 9, 1874...Attachment has been issued...Sheriff directed to garnisheeall bills, notes accounts, goods, chattels, effects, and property of defendantin the possession of L. J. Webb and J. C. Bigger, partners, as Webb &Bigger, on Nov. 11, 1873. Said property and effects will be sold and appliedto the satisfaction of said judgment.
R. M. RUGGLES & LOUIS T. MICHENER, ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFFS.
Winfield Courier, January 23, 1874.
Messrs. Webb and Manning tried skating on the mill pond the other dayand broke through. The latter went down to his arm-pits several times inwater over his head in depth, but caught on the edge of the ice each timeand managed to keep from dying a "stiff cold water man," untilMr. Webb by resolute daring got a board to him whereby he was enabled toget ashore.
Winfield Courier, January 23, 1874.
T. B. Stevenson, Esq., of Nebraska City, Nebraska, is in the city takingdepositions of witnesses before L. J. Webb in a case pending in the DistrictCourt of Pawnee County wherein the people of the State of Nebraska are plaintiffs;and Ortigal N. Palmer, George W. Waldo, and Celesta Randall are defendants.The defendants are charged with the murder of George Randall, the husbandof Celesta Randall, one of the defendants. The deceased was the son of acitizen of this county, and the witnesses whose testimony is being takenare children of the deceased. The deceased was found dead some months sincenear his home in Nebraska.
[DISSOLUTION NOTICE: L. J. WEBB AND J. C. BIGGER.]
Winfield Courier, February 6, 1874.
Notice is hereby given that the partnership heretofore existing betweenthe undersigned and J. C. Bigger is this day dissolved, Mr. Bigger havingopened an office in St. Louis, Missouri. I shall continue in the practiceat my office heretofore occupied by the firm of Webb & Bigger. The firmbusiness will be carried on by me, and I will collect all monies due thefirm and pay its debts. L. J. WEBB.
Jan. 17, 1874.
[DISTRICT COURT DOCKET FOR MARCH TERM.]
Winfield Courier, February 27, 1874.
The following are the cases which stand for trial at the March term A.D. 1874, of the Cowley County District Court, and have been placed on thedocket in the following order.
Civil Docket, Seventh Day, 55. John F. Graham vs. Leland J. Webb.
Civil Docket, Ninth Day, 68. Leland J. Webb vs. Thos. T. Rucker.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1874.
Owing to the fact that the District Court is in session this week, andthe fact that he is engaged in quite a number of important cases, preventedL. J. Webb, Esq., member from this district, from attending the meetingof the Republican State Central Committee at Topeka last Tuesday.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1874.
The following are the Attorneys attending at the District Court: Hon.Wm. P. Hackney, Wellington; Hon. Jas. McDermott, Dexter; C. R. Mitchell,A. J. Pyburn, L. B. Kellogg, Arkansas City; Gen. Rogers, Eureka; M. S. Adams,Wichita; Fairbank, Torrance & Green, L. J. Webb, Manning & Johnson,Judge R. B. Saffold, Lewis T. Michener, Esq., Suits & Wood, D. A. Millington,Winfield.
Winfield Courier, March 27, 1874.
We would call the attention of our readers to the new law firm of Webb& Millington, formed by the co-partnership of L. J. Webb and D. A. Millington.These gentlemen are too well known in this city to need any recommendationfrom us, but we will say for the benefit of strangers that they are bothenergetic businessmen, and can be depended upon.
Winfield Courier, April 10, 1874.
Graham vs. Webb & Bigger, dismissed and cost paid.
Webb vs. Rucker, Judgment for plaintiff and order of sale granted.
Winfield Courier, May 29, 1874.
L. J. Webb, Esq., went to Dexter last night to assist in organizing aMasonic Lodge at that place.
Sadie Webb was a sister of Leland J. Webb...married Sheriff Walker.
Winfield Courier, June 5, 1874.
Miss Sadie Webb was thrown from a horse last week and slightly injured.
Winfield Courier, June 5, 1874.
A complete organization of the first nine of the "Frontier"base ball club was effected last Saturday. The officers are E. C. Manning,President; W. W. Walton, Secretary; A. H. Hane, Treasurer; and L. J. Webb,Captain. The second nine should, and doubtless will, organize tomorrow.
[PROCEEDINGS OF 4TH OF JULY PLANNING COMMITTEE.]
Winfield Courier, June 12, 1874.
Public meeting of the citizens of Winfield, was held last Monday eveningat the office of Curns & Manser for the purpose of preparing for a celebrationof the 4th of July at Winfield.
On motion G. S. Manser was chosen chairman and L. J. Webb, Esq., Secretary.
C. M. Wood offered the following, which was adopted.
Resolved, By the citizens of Winfield and vicinity that we celebratethe 4th of July at this place, and that we extend a cordial invitation tothe citizens of the county to participate with us in the celebration.
N. H. Wood, James Simpson, and J. T. Hall were appointed a committeeto confer with the Soldier's Association and invite them to take part inthe celebration.
On motion it was resolved that the celebration be a basket picnic.
T. K. Johnston, Enoch Marrs, and C. M. Wood were appointed a financecommittee.
M. L. Robinson, James Kelly, and J. T. Hall were appointed a committeeto procure speakers.
A. T. Stewart, Max Shoeb, and H. B. Lacy were appointed a committee ongrounds.
J. T. Hall, T. A. Wilkinson, Mr. and Mrs. John Swain, Miss Mary Stewart,and Miss Baldwin were appointed a committee on music.
H. B. Lacy, C. M. Wood, and J. P. McMillen were appointed a committeeon ice water.
J. P. McMillen, Wirt Walton, and L. J. Webb were appointed a committeeon fantastics and amusem*nts.
L. J. Webb and James Kelly were appointed a committee on artillery.
Captain R. L. Walker was appointed Marshal of the day.
James Kelly offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted.
Resolved, That we extend a cordial invitation to the severalGranges of the county to attend and participate in the celebration.
The meeting then adjourned to meet Monday evening June 15th at 8 o'clockP.M.
L. J. WEBB, Secretary.
[PROCEEDINGS OF MEETING HELD RE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION.]
Winfield Courier, June 19, 1874.
Citizens met Monday evening, June 15th, at Curns & Manser's office,pursuant to adjournment.
Finance committee reported that the committee had received subscriptionsto the amount of $180.50.
Committee on invitations reported that they have extended invitationsto the several granges of the county and to the soldier's society, and thatthe latter had accepted the invitation.
Committee to procure speakers reported progress.
Same report from committees on grounds and music. Prof. Wilkinson, ofthe latter, requested to be excused from serving on the committee on accountof a previous engagement, and was excused.
L. J. Webb, L. T. Michener, J. B. Fairbank, W. M. Allison, and J. E.Allen were appointed committee on Toasts.
G. S. Manser, C. M. Wood, and J. P. McMillen were appointed committeeon programme.
Mayor Smith, Dr. Mansfield, and D. A. Millington were appointed receptioncommittee.
T. K. Johnson, H. S. Silver, and W. W. Andrews were appointed committeeon fireworks.
On motion of H. B. Lacy, resolved that the ladies be invited to attendthe next meeting.
Adjourned to meet Monday evening, June 22, at 8 o'clock p.m.
L. J. Webb, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, June 26, 1874.
Capt. McDermott, of Dexter, was in to see us this week. He in companywith L. J. Webb, Capt. Hunt, and T. A. Rice, visited Wellington on Tuesdayon business connected with the Masonic Order.
[THE 4TH AT WINFIELD CELEBRATION.]
Winfield Courier, July 10, 1874.
The 98th anniversary of the declaration of American independence wasushered in at Winfield with a round of 37 guns. a more beautiful morningnever dawned on the day made immortal by the heroes, who, to achieve theindependence of the thirteen colonies, pledged their "fortunes, theirlives, and their sacred honor." Before 10 o'clock the city was a perfectjam of people. But Chief Marshal Walker, with his corps of able assistants,soon had the mass in motion headed for the grove. The Winfield Silver CornetBand, closely followed by the car of freedom, containing 37 beautiful youngladies, and drawn by four horses driven by Mr. N. Roberson, headed the procession.Arrived at the grove everything was found to be in first-class order.
The meeting was called to order by G. S. Manser, president of the day.The Declaration of Independence was read by L. T. Michener, Esq. Speecheswere then made by Col. John M. Alexander and Judge Ross. The "StarSpangled Banner" was sung by Mrs. A. H. Green, assisted by J. T. Hall,and a full chorus of young ladies, when a short recess was had for
Everybody seemed to have plenty and to spare as we can testify, for wesampled more than one dinner basket.
After dinner several toasts were proposed, and responded to, by JudgeRoss, L. J. Webb, Col. Manning, Capt. S. C. Smith, and L. T. Michener.
3 o'clock, the hour announced for the races having arrived, the assemblyadjourned to the Fair Grounds. (As the races formed no part of the celebrationproper, we will treat of them in another place.)
The day was finished with a beautiful pyrotechnic display and a ballat the Courthouse where all went merry as a 4th of July belle, and everybodywent home fully satisfied with themselves and all mankind.
There were none. Any ordinary Saturday would have furnished a greatervariety of incidents or accidents. Never has a more orderly day been passedin Winfield. Not a solitary case of drunkenness; no fights, no cursing orswearing, nothing of the sort.
[CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS JUNE 17, 1874.]
Winfield Courier, July 10, 1874.
City Council met June 17th, at 4 p.m., in pursuance of adjournment. Present:Mayor S. C. Smith and Councilmen S. Darrah, H. S. Silver, R. B. Saffold,and J. P. McMillen. J. W. Curns, Clerk.
The minutes of last meeting were read and approved.
The committee to whom was referred the petition of A. G. Vincent, fordram shop license, reported the petition not sufficient. L. J. Webb askedleave to withdraw the petition, which on motion was granted. L. T. Michenerthen asked leave to withdraw the remonstrance against issuing dram shoplicense, which on motion was granted.
The sealed bids to build sidewalks were opened and read. Mr. L. Lippmannhaving the lowest bid, the contract was awarded to him. On motion the committeeon sidewalks were empowered to contract with Mr. Lippmann to build suchsidewalks as are necessary to be built.
The bill of J. W. Curns for one month's services as Clerk, allowed: $8.33.
The bill of J. W. Curns for dog tags, allowed: $9.75.
Mr. R. B. Saffold offered the following resolution, which on motion wasadopted.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to procurefor the city six ladders, to be placed at different business places alongMain street, where the use of water buckets can be had, said ladders tobe the property of the city and to be under the control of the City Marshal,to be used in case of fire. On motion R. B. Saffold, S. Darrah, and H. S.Silver were appointed a committee to procure said ladders.
On motion adjourned to meet at the next regular meeting at Curns &Manser's office.
J. W. Curns, Clerk.
Winfield Courier, July 24, 1874.
Last Saturday three young men who had just returned home from Texas werearrested here on charge of horse stealing. They had been followed from theIndian Territory by the parties who owned the stock, and overtaken in thiscity just as they were trying to dispose of the stolen property. It beinglate Saturday evening the boys were lodged in jail to await examinationMonday morning. However, late Saturday night, Brown, one of the number,with his attorney, L. J. Webb, Esq., appeared before Squire Boyer, waivedexamination, and in default of bail, was sent to jail to await the Septemberterm of the District Court.
The other two, Brocknell and Onstott, were brought up for examinationon Monday morning. Squire Boyer, on the motion of the County attorney, andknowing that the U. S. Marshal was ready to re-arrest and take them beforethe Federal court at Arkansas City, discharged the prisoners. No soonerwas this done and Hill, the U. S. Deputy Marshal, attempted to serve hiswarrant then revolvers were flashed in his face, by two or three deputySheriffs of the county. Of course, he was powerless, and the prisoners wereimmediately re-arrested by a warrant issued by Squire Wood.
Again they were locked up for the night, and Tuesday morning broughtbefore N. H. Wood, Esq., where they plead guilty, and in default of $1,500bail, each, they were again sent to board at the expense of the county,where all three now await their trial at the next term of the District Court.
This case certainly presents many curious and anomalous features. Itis the only case we have ever seen where the accused insisted upon theirown guilt, and retained three prominent lawyers to help them plead guilty.The County attorney was willing and even anxious to have them turned overto the U. S. Courts, and thereby avoid expense to the county. But, not theirattorneys, Messrs. Webb, Hackney, and Johnson, who insisted that their clientswere undoubtedly guilty, and should be held for trial here.
We have no wish to manufacture sentiment one way or the other--but ofone thing we are sure, and that is, if the ends of Justice could be reachedjust as well (which in our opinion it could) by handing them over to theU. S. Commissioner Kellogg, at Arkansas City, and save this county considerableexpense, that was just what should have been done. Cowley County has nodesire to pay for anybody's whistle but her own.
Don't know which Webb is referred to in next article...
Winfield Courier, July 31, 1874.
The Eldorado base ball club of Eldorado, played the Frontiers of thisplace a match game of ball on the grounds of the latter last Saturday, whichresulted in the victory of the Frontier's by a score of 35 to 38. Play was"called" at 3 o'clock p.m., and the game was called at 7, in themiddle of the ninth inning, it being too dark to finish the game with safety.According to the rule, therefore, the score was counted at the end of theeighth inning.
The game was a very poor one, which was mainly owing to the strong windwhich blew from the south, carrying the dust into the eyes of the catcher,and taking the ball whereso'er it listeth. The Winfield boys in none oftheir scrub games ever played so poorly. Not a whitewash was made on eitherside.
Bob Shethar of the Frontier's, made the only home run, and put ten menout on first base, Cruden assisting six times. Walton caught two fouls andput two men out on 3 strikes, but at the fifth inning, having badly bruisedhis hand, he took second base and Cruden took his place behind the bat.Cruden caught one fair fly, five fouls, put one man out on second base,and one on three strikes. Hane put one man out on second base, and Morrisone on third. Webb assisted once, Morris once, Walton once, Siemmons once,and Kenan twice.
On the side of the Eldorado's, Gossard caught two fair flies, Shryertwo, and Myers one. McIntire caught nine fouls, put one out on three strikes,and one out on home base, etc.
PLAYERS FOR FRONTIER BASE BALL CLUB.
Walton, Kenan, Siemmons, Shethar, Cruden, Morris, Webb, Hane, and Stewart.
Scorers: Frontier--V. B. Beckett. Eldorado--J. C. Elliott.
The ball in the evening was not as great a success as it would have beenif Sheriff Walker had allowed the use of the courthouse, which he refusedto do, whereupon the Valley House was procured and used, and a select, thoughsmall crowd, was in attendance. But everything passed off pleasantly, andas far as we know, the boys were well pleased with the entertainment.
The third game will be played at Douglass, on one of the days of thefair, which will be held in the middle of September next.
Article sez L. J. Webb...
[ORGANIZING A COMPANY OF STATE MILITIA: WINFIELD.]
Winfield Courier, August 28, 1874.
Pursuant to a call, the citizens of Winfield and vicinity met at thecourthouse on Monday evening, the 24th, electing J. J. Williams as chairman,and W. W. Walton Secretary; E. B. Kager stated the object of the meetingto be the organization of a company of State Militia.
Capt. J. B. Nipp, being called upon, made some very good suggestionsbesides giving the latest news from the frontier. He thought that therewas more danger of an invasion by the Indians now than there had ever been.The Osages demanded the return of the ponies and one thousand dollars eachfor the Indians killed in the recent engagement with the MilitiA. Theseterms will not be conceded by the Governor, and an open war on the extremeborder this fall and winter is threatened.
A sufficient number having signed the necessary oath, they were swornin by Capt. Nipp. They then proceeded to the election of officers, resultingas follows.
Capt., E. B. Kager; 1st Lieut., A. T. Shenneman; 2nd Lieut., L. J. Webb;Orderly Sergeant, W. W. Walton.
Recruiting has begun in earnest, and a large company will be formed here,the necessary arms and accouterments will be sent on immediately. YesterdayCapt. Kager received the following from Col. Norton which explains itself.
CAPTAIN KAGER: Please report to me the number of effective men in yourcompany that you can count on to go, both mounted and unmounted. This isby order of the Adjutant General. He says: "Have all the companiescarefully inspected and accept none but first-class men for service."Yours, G. H. NORTON, Lieut. Col. Kansas Militia.
Winfield Courier, September 4, 1874.
Webb & Millington have moved their law office into Fuller's bankbuilding.
Winfield Courier, September 11, 1874.
Quite a number of "the boys" of this city are serving in theArkansas City militia: Wirt Walton, Bob Sheather, Billy Anderson, and Douglash*te, a former employee of this office. They are now doing their duty assoldiers. L. J. Webb went down to the City to enlist, but was taken sickand brought home. The militia brought the Kickapoo squaws up to ArkansasCity for "protection" last week, and now they are patrolling theborder and running down into the Territory occasionally.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1874.
L. J. Webb presided over the recent Senatorial Convention at Wichitawith much credit to himself and honor to the county. For a young man hehas few equals as a skilled parliamentarian or live criminal lawyer. CowleyCounty could do worse than to elect him County Attorney this fall.
[EDITORIAL RE TELEGRAM, ETC.]
Winfield Courier, September 25, 1874.
Astronomers tell us that the planet Jupiter has four satellites, whoseapparent motion is oscillatory. That is, they weave first one way from Jupiter,and his attraction being so great as to force them to return, they fly backwith such velocity as to carry them beyond when they are compelled to returnagain, and so continue. All but one are represented as being larger thanJupiter. Singular as it may appear we have an imitation of this wonder inthe animal kingdom. Jupiter and his satellites--Manning and his delegates:Walton, Boyer, Kelly, and Webb. Telegram of Sept. 18th.
The curious orthography of the word "satellites" in two placesin the above extract and the remarkable discovery that three of Jupiter'ssatellites are each larger than Jupiter, are earmarks of such ample proportionsas to convince us that none other than the celebrated "God bless theGrangers" Alexander could be its author. As that would-be candidatefor Congress and the State Senate has a hankering for the office of CountyAttorney, we suppose that Webb must be the smaller satellite referred to.
Winfield Courier, October 2, 1874.
Court convened last Monday, the following lawyers in attendance: Webb& Millington, Pryor & Kager, Fairbank, Torrance & Green, Alexander& Saffold, Suits & Wood, E. C. Manning, W. P. Hackney, T. H. Johnson,and John E. Allen, of Winfield. J. Wade McDonald, of Wellington. M. S. Adamsand Chas. Hatton, of Wichita. James McDermott, of Dexter; and C. R. Mitchelland L. B. Kellogg, of Arkansas City.
[EDITORIAL: REPUBLICAN CENTRAL COMMITTEE MEETING.]
Winfield Courier, October 9, 1874.
A large and enthusiastic meeting greeted our candidate for Congress.The Winfield Silver Cornet Band discoursed some of their delightful pieces.
James Kelly, secretary of the Republican Central Committee, conducted.Maj. J. B. Fairbanks was elected chairman, who, in a few happy remarks introducedJudge Brown. Next speaker was Hon. Ed. Russel, of Leavenworth. Col. H. C.St. Clair, the republican candidate for state senator was next, followedby L. J. Webb.
Winfield Courier, October 9, 1874.
BIRTH. Born to Mr. and Mrs. Leland J. Webb--a son--it weighed just 9-1/2pounds.
Winfield Courier, October 15, 1874.
Brown, Brocknell, and Onstat, who have been resting here in jail forsome months past, had a hearing before commissioner L. R. Kellogg last Monday,and Brown was discharged. Brocknell and Onstat were bound over to appearbefore the U. S. District court of Arkansas; E. S. Torrance appeared forthe prosecution, and Hackney and Webb for the defense.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 22, 1874.
For Representative: Thomas R. Bryan, of Dexter Township.
For Probate Judge: Sim S. Moore, of Tisdale Township.
For County Attorney: Leland J. Webb, of Winfield Township.
For Clerk of the District Court: Ed S. Bedilion, of Winfield Township.
For Superintendent of Public Instruction: Thomas A. Wilkinson, of BoltonTownship.
For County Attorney we have LELAND J. WEBB, of Winfield. Every lawyerin the different counties in this Judicial district will bear testimonyto Mr. Webb's ability as an attorney. The county needs always a carefuland correct adviser, and this we have in Mr. L. J. Webb.
[THE WEBB FAMILY.]
Winfield Courier, October 22, 1874.
Judge W. C. Webb has been nominated for the legislature in the Fort Scottdistrict, and we trust will be elected. Judge Webb is, today, in our judgment,the best practical legislator in Kansas. Even if nominated by the democraticparty, we would be tempted to favor his election, for the highest practicalreasons; because he is an honest, industrious, and thoroughly competentlaw maker, one who will save the state from the infliction of numerous foolishlaws, and give it the benefit of his acute reasoning powers and his largeand varied experience. He is a man of strong convictions, and a nervous,irritable temperament, not calculated to make him friends; but to thosewho have overcome prejudice against these surface indications of his character,and learned to respect his honesty and undoubted ability, there can be butone opinion, that Fort Scott would be doing herself credit and the wholestate a favor by sending Judge Webb to the legislature the coming winter.Commonwealth.
Lowell H. Webb, of Fort Scott, son of W. C. Webb, has passed a successfulexamination and been admitted into the Naval Academy, at Annapolis, as acadet midshipman. Emporia News.
The first named gentleman is the father, and the latter, the brotherof L. J. Webb, of this city, who is the Republican candidate for CountyAttorney of Cowley County, and one of the ablest lawyers in the southwest.
[Note: When nominations were placed, C. R. Mitchell got 28; L. J. Webb29.]
[EDITORIAL: THE TRAVELER'S DEFECTION.]
Winfield Courier, October 29, 1874.
The Arkansas City Traveler, refuses to support L. J. Webb forCounty Attorney, and Sim Moore for Probate Judge, and supports Pyburn andGans, of the pie bald ticket. In reference to Mr. Webb's candidacy, theTraveler says: "L. J. Webb is one of the best criminal lawyersin Southern Kansas, and a personal friend of ours, but we consider A. J.Pyburn the most trustworthy."
And further on it says: "As we said in our former issues, we shallvote for the best men, regardless of party, local prejudice, or personalill-will. We are opposed to conventions but will be compelled to submitto them until the people are ready and willing to adopt a better plan. Theyare not essential in the election of county officers, where we all havethe opportunity of knowing the men."
It seems to us that it would be more manly for the Travelerto state its objections to Webb and Moore. So that should it appear to beanything serious, we could all drop them. We can see no difference betweenthe Traveler's course and that of any other self-styled reformpaper. "We shall vote for the best man," says the Traveler,"regardless of party, etc." In this case, Mr. Scott had no morebusiness in a republican convention than a Catholic Priest would have takingpart in a Presbyterian General Assembly.
We are sorry the Traveler has seen fit to take the course ithas in the present canvass. And until the Traveler shows whereinthe two democrats, Pyburn and Gans, are in any respect better, or more worthy,than the republican nominees, Webb and Moore, the people will be of theopinion that there is something besides a desire for "best men,"that actuates the Traveler.
Some of us will still think that the old jealousy of Winfield, of Winfieldmen, and Winfield things, still rankles in the breasts of our brethren ofArkansas City. It will be hard for Scott to explain why he didn't throwhimself in the breach at the convention and have someone other than Webband Moore nominated. Why didn't Mr. Scott tell the convention that he couldn'tsupport these gentlemen if nominated. Why didn't he nominate A. J. Pyburnand explain to the delegates that he thought him a "more trustworthyman" than Webb, instead of congratulating the latter gentleman on hisnomination. We do not believe that Mr. Pyburn is as fit for County Attorneyas L. J. Webb. Nor that H. D. Gans is as well qualified for Probate Judgeas Sim. S. Moore.
Winfield Courier, October 29, 1874.
Leland J. Webb has had 107 cases in the district court; 96 civil and11 criminal. He won 85 out of the 96 civil and the entire 11 criminal. Canyour "reform" candidate or any other Lawyer in the district bestthat? Webb was nominated because of his well known ability. And if the peopleof Cowley want a man who knows how, and will take care of their interests,they should vote for L. J. Webb for County Attorney.
Winfield Courier, October 29, 1874.
Judge Moore, L. J. Webb, and T. A. Wilkinson paid our village a shortvisit last week. The notices of the coming of these gentlemen were not receivedand the crowd was small which met with them here. But they thus got betteracquainted with the citizens whom they did meet.
On Thursday morning the Independent candidates met at the schoolhouseand entertained a number of our people with speeches. Mr. Manly Hemenway,our postmaster, presided, and speeches were made by Messrs. Walton, Williams,and Gans, and Ben Clover, Julius Woollen, and R. C. Story responded to sometoasts furnished by the preceding speakers.
A movement is on foot to put the parsonage in better and more comfortablecondition, and our citizens without regard to church, are supporting themovement.
On the 22nd, Mr. John Cunningham brought suit before H. D. Gans againstEugene Millard for the sum of five dollars, money loaned the defendant bythe plaintiff. Judgment for plaintiff.
Mr. Manly Hemenway has received his second lot of new goods for falland winter trade.
Many wagons pass and repass daily, going to, or coming from the cornfields of Elk River, where corn is held at from fifty to sixty cents perbushel.
The public schools along the valley are reported to be in a flourishingcondition.
On the 24th, the Grouse Creek Teachers' Association was permanently organized.The officers elected are as follows: President, R. C. Story; Vice President,Miss Ida Daggett; Secretary, Julius Woollen; Assistant Secretary, Miss BelleDudley; Critic, Miss Kate Fitzgerald. In the afternoon Mr. Story deliveredan address on the subject of English words, and their etymology. Miss Daggettread an essay on the aims and ends of our association. Mr. Woollen gavean address on the true basis of teaching. The meeting was pleasant and profitable.The next session will be held November 14th.
The chicken cholera is rapidly thinning out our hen roosts. In timesof trouble and calamity, deeds of heroism and self-sacrifice shine out allthe more brilliantly from the darkness of their surroundings. One of ourcitizens had a hen whose devotion to duty was her "ruling passion strongin death," for she was found dead in her nest with two eggs under her.Comments are unnecessary.
L. J. Webb defeated...
Winfield Courier, November 5, 1874.
The election in this county last Tuesday passed off quietly. No disturbanceof any kind marred the good feeling which has prevailed during the electioncampaign. Owing to the fact that a great many voters stayed away from thepolls a very light vote was cast, probably not over fourteen hundred inall.
The State Congressional and Senatorial tickets received handsome majorities.
The Republican Congressional and Senatorial tickets received handsomemajorities.
The Republican county ticket was elected with two exceptions, by majoritiesranging all the way from 100 to 225.
What we consider an infamous combination defeated Webb and Moore. Creswelland Bolton Townships, voted almost solid for their own man Pyburn againstWebb and the Democratic Gans against Moore. Surely neither Webb nor Moorehas cause to be ashamed of their home vote. And notwithstanding the miserablestories set afloat concerning them just before the election each ran aheadof his ticket in their respective townships. Especially may L. J. Webb beproud of the vote given him here. His own home vindicates him from the foulcharges of his enemies by seventy-five majority, while the reform candidateswith that exception run ahead by small majorities. Never was a campaignconducted fairer than Mr. Webb conducted the one just closed and he hasthe consciousness that while he has lost the position to which he aspiredhe yet retains his honor.
Take it all in all, the Republican party of Cowley County have reasonto be proud of that day's work.
Winfield Courier, November 5, 1874.
The reformers in Creswell and Bolton townships went solid against Webbfor county attorney because they said Pyburn is a better man, while at Winfieldthe reformers voted for Webb because they say he is a better man than Pyburn.Alas, we have lost faith in these reformers.
Winfield Courier, November 5, 1874.
A good girl who can do general housework, and take care of children,can find a good situation by applying at once at the residence of L. J.Webb.
[COMMUNICATION FROM "REPUBLICAN" - TISDALE.]
Winfield Courier, November 19, 1874.
In the Traveler of the 11th inst., the editor speaking of theresult of our county election, says:
"It has taught there is a power that effectually holds the balanceof power, and speaks through the ballot box rather than through party politics.That power lies in the sense and judgment of intelligent reasoning men,who cherish principles rather than politics."
Mr. Scott infers by this, the city in which he resides, alone of allour county contains intelligent reasoning men, and men who cherish principles.Now as Mr. Scott holds out to the people the idea that he is one of thatnumber, let us notice briefly some of the principles which he cherishes.
When the Independent convention met at Tisdale on the 12th of October,Mr. Scott was there, endeavoring with might and main to secure the nominationof C. R. Mitchell as a candidate for the office of County Attorney on theIndependent ticket, saying to members of that convention that Mr. Mitchellwas a straight out independent man. Failing to force his man upon the Independentticket, he had the impudence to attempt to secure his nomination on theRepublican ticket, claiming that his man was a straight Republican, andthat he would not have accepted the nomination of the Independents if hehad received it. But Mr. Scott's pet was too well known to be acceptableto the republicans, and he failed there. After this failure Mr. Scott wasone of the first to congratulate the successful candidate, Mr. Webb, andsay, "I have been trying to beat you, but now I will help elect you."In the next issue of his paper, he says that Webb is the best criminal lawyerin Southern Kansas, and yet he failed to support him.
In a former issue he said he would support the best man regardless ofpetty spite, local prejudice, or personal ill-will. Let us see.
The Creswell delegation claimed to favor the nomination of S. S. Moorefor the office of Probate Judge, and attempted to secure the support ofthe Tisdale delegates to C. R. Mitchell thereby, but when they failed toget the Tisdaleites to support a man whom they deemed unworthy, the supportof the Republican party, or the people, Scott bolted the ticket and claimedthat Moore was incompetent. If Moore was incompetent after the convention,why wasn't he incompetent before the convention? Why? Simply because hecould not be induced by a political trickster to vote in a Republican conventioncontrary to the wishes of his constituents.
Mr. Moore has certainly reason to be proud of the vote he received outsideof the immediate vicinity of the Traveler. In his own township,which gave a majority of 46 last fall against one of the best men in thecounty, at the late election gave Moore a majority of 21. a gain of 67 votesover Mr. Troup's vote of last fall. Again, which I dare say, no other mancould have obtained.
Then take for example the two precincts laying between him and his opponent,where both candidates were well known, and let them decide whether or notScott's support was "regardless of petty spite or personal ill-will."It is a fact well known to every delegate in the Republican convention thatthe Traveler's disaffection was caused wholly--as far as C. M.Scott was concerned--by local prejudice and personal ill-will. If theseprinciples are the principles that "intelligent reasoning men"cherish, God deliver us from such principles.
Leland J. Webb's sister...
Winfield Courier, November 19, 1874.
Miss Sadie Webb started this morning for Topeka, where she expects toreside.
Winfield Courier, November 26, 1874.
In Cowley County District Court 13th Judicial District, State of Kansas.
John A. Mimebaugh, Plaintiff, vs. Amos E. Mahaney, Martin L. Read, andLizzie M. Martin, Defendants.
The defendant Amos E. Mahaney, will take notice that on Monday, the 25thday of January, A. D. 1875, the plaintiff above named will take the depositionsof sundry witnesses to be used as evidence on the trial of the above causeat the office of Irving Howbert, at Colorado Springs, El Paso county, inthe Territory of Colorado, between the hours of eight o'clock a.m. and sixo'clock p.m. of said day, and that the taking of the same will be adjournedfrom day to day between the said hours until said depositions are completed.
Winfield Courier, December 3, 1874.
The third Quarterly meeting of the M. E. church will be held at WinfieldDecember 12th and 13th. Preaching at 2 o'clock, on Saturday evening. QuarterlyConference service on Saturday night. J. McQUISTON.
Winfield Courier, December 3, 1874.
At a stated communication of Adelphi Lodge No. 110, held last Tuesdayevening, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:
Leland J. Webb, W. M.
W. G. Graham, S. W.
J. E. Saint, J. W.
J. C. Fuller, Treas.
M. G. Troup, Sec.
J. Newman, Chaplain.
Perry Hill, S. D.
J. D. Cochran, J. D.
I. L. Comfort, Tyler.
Winfield Courier, December 17, 1874.
The Adelphi Lodge No. 110 will not hold a public installation Christmasday but will have a private one at their hall. A cordial invitation is extendedto the fraternity.
L. J. WEBB, Sec.
[LOST OR STOLEN: two pointer bird dogs...L. J. WEBB.]
Winfield Courier, January 14, 1875.
On or about the 10th or 11th day of January, 1875, two pointer bird dogs,one about 3 years old, white with several large cinnamon colored spots;also "double nose." Had on a leather collar with an iron ringin it, and a round brass tax tag for 1874. The other, a pup about six monthsold, same color and spots, with single nose, no collar. Old dog answersto the name of "Jack" and young one "Dick." Anyone givinginformation leading to the recovery of one or both of the dogs will be suitablyrewarded. Call on or address
Winfield Courier, January 21, 1875.
L. J. Webb and Mr. Bernard went hunting on Timber Creek Tuesday and slaughtered49 rabbits.
Winfield Courier, February 11, 1875.
From Mr. L. J. Webb, who has recently returned from Topeka, where hehas been attending to some suits in the Supreme Court, we learn that thebill for funding the indebted-ness of Cowley County has been introducedin the house.
It provides for issuing bonds to take up the indebtedness of the county,said bonds to be sold dollar for dollar. Representative Bryan is industriousand keeps track of Legislation, always voting right, but saying little.Capt. Folks, as Secretary of the Senate, is very popular, and has greatinfluence.
The bill to divide Howard County, having passed the House, has been reportedfavorably upon by the committee on counties and county lines in the Senate.
The bill allowing counties to issue relief bonds has passed both branchesof the legislature.
The bill authorizing the issue of $95,000 in state bonds to purchasewood and food for the destitute has passed the House and is likely to passthe Senate. Senator Peters from Marion County is the champion of the measurein the Senate. The democrats and opposition in the Senate are fighting thebill on political grounds, hoping to defeat it and then charge that a republicanlegislature refused aid to the needy.
Winfield Courier, February 11, 1875.
L. J. Webb has returned from Topeka.
Winfield Courier, February 11, 1875.
On the 19th day of January, E. S. Torrance was admitted to the bar ofthe Supreme Court of this state, and on the 8th inst., L. J. Webb was admitted.
Winfield Courier, February 18, 1875.
On Tuesday last, Charlie Black shot and killed a very large beaver. Onexamination, it was found to have but three legs, one of the fore ones beingoff at the first joint. The knowing ones say that some time or other thisdam builder had been caught in a trap, and to secure freedom, had cut itsown leg off. Charlie was accompanied by Capt. Hunt, Reuben Rogers, JasperCochran, and L. J. Webb. The party killed 51 rabbits and several ducks.
Winfield Courier, February 25, 1875.
In the Probate Court in and for said county.
NOTICE is hereby given that letters of administration have been grantedto the undersigned on the estate of Joseph Foos, late of said county, deceased,by the honorable the Probate court of the county and state aforesaid, datedthe 25th day of February A. D. 1875. Now all persons having claims againstthe said estate are hereby notified that they must present the same to theundersigned for allowance within one year from the date of said letters,or they may be precluded from any benefit of such estate, and that if suchclaims be not exhibited within three years after the date of said letters,they shall be forever barred.
Administratrix of the Estate of Joseph Foos, Deceased.
BY WEBB & MILLINGTON, her Attorneys, Winfield, Kansas, February 25,1875.
Winfield Courier, March 4, 1875.
The dwelling house standing east of L. J. Webb's, occupied by Mr. Fortnerand owned by Mrs. Flint, caught fire this morning, but was put out withoutit* doing much damage.
Winfield Courier, March 11, 1875.
The members of Adelphi Lodge No. 110, A. F. and A. M., are hereby notifiedthat there will be a special communication of said Lodge Tuesday eveningMarch 16, 1875, at half past seven o'clock sharp, at which time the GrandMaster of the Grand Lodge of Kansas will be present. L. J. WEBB, W. M.
Winfield Courier, March 18, 1875.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the Marchterm, A. D., 1875, of the District Court of Cowley County, to be holdenon and from the 22nd day, and have been placed on the Trial Docket in thefollowing order.
Civil Docket, Sixth Day, No. 512. Jonathan Newman vs. L. J. Webb.
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1875.
The District Court is in full blast, Hon. W. P. Campbell presiding. Thefollowing attorneys are in attendance: Webb & Millington, Hackney &McDonald, E. C. Manning, J. B. Fairbank, Pryor & Kager, T. H. Suits,John E. Allen, A. H. Green, Alexander & Saffold, T. H. Johnson, M. S.Adams of Wichita, C. R. Mitchell and L. B. Kellogg of Arkansas City, JamesMcDermott of Dexter, and A. J. Pyburn, County Attorney.
[BILL UNPAID: T. B. MURDOCK, ELDORADO, KANSAS.]
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1875.
ED. COURIER. Dear Sir: On the 9th of August, 1870, I printed and sentto your county 1,500 personal property statements (Assessors blanks) onthe order of your county clerk. I sent down the bill with the blanks ($17.50).I have repeatedly made out my bill, sworn to it, and sent it to your countyclerk, but your commissioners have never allowed the bill. Last year I sentthe account to L. J. Webb, and asked him to see to it for me. He wrote backto me that it was outlawed, and that the commissioners refused to pay it.
I wish to ask your people a question or two through your columns:
In the first place, I printed the blanks in good faith for your countybefore you had a printing office to do it for you in your own county.
I have made no fuss about the bill, believing your commissioners wouldpay it.
I write to ask some gentleman in the county to appear before the commissionersat their next meeting and ask them if they will pay it, and inform me throughyour columns what they say.
The bill is just and right, and ought to be paid. I cannot afford tolose it.
My bill, $17.50, with interest at ten percent for four and a half years,will be $26.85.
The question arises, does your county pay its honest debts, or does ittake advantage of the statute of limitations, and stand its creditors offfrom time to eternity? Will Mr. Kelly, Col. Manning, D. A. Millington, Mr.Webb, or some other gentleman present my claim to the commissioners? Yoursfor Justice. T. B. MURDOCK.
The bill mentioned in the above letter ought to have been paidlong ago. Surely our county has no intention of pleading the statutes oflimitations, the baby act, or anything else to avoid paying its honest debts.It strikes us that the bill is a reasonable one, at least, for those earlydays, and our county, instead of taking advantage of the lapse of time,ought to be thankful to Mr. Murdock for his leniency. Cowley County can'tafford to defraud her creditors in such a way.
[WINFIELD CEMETERY ASSOCIATION.]
Winfield Courier, March 25, 1875.
There will be a meeting of the stockholders of the Winfield CemeteryAssociation on Wednesday, March 31, 1875, at W. H. H. Maris' store. Allpersons owning a lot in the Winfield Cemetery are stockholders, and entitledto vote at the meeting. A full attendance is requested. The following isa list of the said stockholders.
John Lowrey, C. A. Bliss, Mrs. Clara Flint, Robert Hudson, W. L. Fortner,W. H. Dunn, Mallard, Dr. D. N. Egbert, J. H. Land, W. M. Boyer, A. Menor,S. J. Swanson, Mrs. Eliza Davis, M. L. Read. S. C. Smith, Kenton, Marshall,Henry Martin, W. H. H. Maris, Mrs. K. Maris, E. Maris, J. Newman, L. J.Webb, J. W. Smiley, George W. Brown, John Rhoads, H. H. Lacy, L. T. Michner,George Gray, N. H. Holmes, John Mentch, M. Steward, J. J. Barrett, J. W.Johnson, J. Evans, Cutting, W. G. Graham, S. W. Greer, Dr. W. Q. Mansfield,J. D. Cochran, C. C. Stephens, W. H. South, J. C. Weathers, Mrs. JosephFoos, G. S. Manser, Mrs. Southworth, A. A. Jackson, J. F. Graham, Mrs. H.McMasters, S. H. Myton, S. H. Darrah, M. L. Robinson, D. H. Rodocker, R.H. Tucker, James Kelly, W. Dibble, D. F. Best, Z. T. Swigart, R. Rogers.
Winfield Courier, April 15, 1875.
In the case of the State of Kansas vs. Sridler, for forgery, the juryfailed to agree on a verdict. County Attorney Pyburn entered a nolleprosequi and the defendant went free. In the conduct of the suit forthe defense, L. J. Webb, Esq., added new laurels to his already good reputationas a lawyer. His argument on the close was perhaps one of the best evermade to a jury in Cowley County, eliciting the highest encomiums from everyonepresent, and Sridler may thank his stars that L. J. Webb was his attorney.
[BAR MEETING: HONORING W. P. HACKNEY, WHO IS LEAVING.]
Winfield Courier, April 22, 1875.
At a meeting of the Cowley County Bar held at the office of J. E. Allen,in the city of Winfield, April 26th, 1875, Judge R. B. Saffold was calledto the chair and J. E. Allen appointed Secretary. The following were appointeda committee on resolutions: L. J. Webb, A. J. Pyburn, Amos Walton, and W.M. Boyer, who reported the following resolutions, which were unanimouslyadopted.
WHEREAS, The Hon. W. P. Hackney is about to remove from our midst, thereforeit
Resolved, That we, the members of the bar of Cowley County,do most sincerely regret the loss we sustain in his removal.
Resolved, That in Mr. Hackney we recognize a true lawyer, andone who graces the profession to which he belongs.
Resolved, That we recommend him as one in whom the people whereverhe may locate may repose implicit confidence, not only as a lawyer, butas a citizen and neighbor.
Resolved, That the Secretary furnish a copy of these resolutionsto Mr. Hackney, and a copy to each of the county papers for publication.R. B. SAFFOLD, Chairman.
J. B. ALLEN, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, May 27, 1875.
L. J. Webb, Burt Covert, A. D. Speed, and Will Doty started last Mondayfor Kansas City to attend a trial of Speed's in regard to some Texas cattle.They went in a spring wagon across the country, emigrant style.
Winfield Courier, June 24, 1875.
Frank Gallotti wants another Indian war since he is Quartermaster Sergeantof company "G."
At the meeting held by Company "G," last Saturday night, A.T. Shenneman was elected Captain, W. M. Boyer, 1st Lieut.; and J. E. Saint,1st Sergeant. 2nd Lieut. Webb gave notice of his intention to resign, andWirt W. Walton was recommended to fill the vacancy.
Winfield Courier, August 19, 1875.
At a special Communication held on the 13th inst., the following wasadopted.
WHEREAS, In the dispensation of an All-wise and Overruling Providence,the families of our worthy brothers, M. G. Troup and Perry Hill, have beenafflicted by the death of each of their eldest children since our last Communication;and while we submit with becoming christian resignation to the decree ofan All-wise God; yet had it been agreeable to His Divine Will, we wouldthat they could have been spared this great trial.
Resolved, That we tender to the bereaved brethren and theirfamilies our sincere, christian and brotherly sympathy, and our humble andfervent prayers to God that they may be sustained in this, their hour oftrial.
ATTEST: L. J. WEBB, W. M.
Note: A similar resolution was done by Lodge August 13, 1875,for Jonathan Newman, brother (and chaplain). They resolved to wear badgesof mourning for 30 days.
Winfield Courier, August 19, 1875.
RECAP: MISSOURI L. DARNALL, ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF ABIJAH J.DARNALL, DECEASED, THROUGH HER ATTORNEY, L. J. WEBB, WAS TRYING TO SETTLEALL CLAIMS AGAINST SAID ESTATE.
Sadie and Mary Webb, sisters of L. J. Webb...
Winfield Courier, August 26, 1875.
Miss Sadie, and her sister, Mary Webb, of Topeka, are down visiting theirbrother, L. J. Webb, of this place.
Foos mentioned in Book 1 of Cowley County History...
[PUBLIC SALE: REBECCA FOOS, WIDOW OF JOSEPH FOOS.]
Winfield Courier, September 16, 1875.
The undersigned will sell at public auction on
At her residence on the Walnut, 4 miles North of Winfield, the followingpersonal property: Seven Cows, Five Calves, Two Heifers, Thirty-two Hogsand Pigs. One Span of Mares, One Wagon, One Sett Double Harness, FarmingImplements, Household Furniture.
75 Bushels of Rye, 25 Bushels of Oats, Forty-five Acres of Corn in theField, and a number of Turkeys, Chickens, and Ducks. The sale is to commenceat 1 o'clock p.m.
The farm will be rented for a term of years. Early applications required.
For further information, inquire of L. J. Webb.
Winfield Courier, September 16, 1875.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the Septemberterm of the District Court, to be holden on and from the 27th, and havebeen placed on the Trial Docket in the following order.
Civil Docket, Sixth Day. Leland J. Webb vs. Thompson H. Johnson.
Winfield Courier, September 16, 1875.
Wanted! A good girl to do general house work, and take care of children.None but a neat and competent one need apply. To such a one good wages willbe given. For further information, call at the office or residence of L.J. WEBB.
Winfield Courier, September 16, 1875.
BUSINESS and Dwelling Houses to rent. Inquire of L. J. WEBB.
Sadie Webb, Leland J. Webb's sister.
Winfield Courier, September 30, 1875.
Miss Sadie Webb, late of Topeka, is writing in County Clerk Troup's office,and Mrs. Clara Flint in Register McCulloch's office at the Courthouse.
[EDITORIAL PAGE: THE TICKET.]
Winfield Courier, October 7, 1875.
The ticket nominated last Saturday by the Republican County Conventionis, all things, considered, one of the strongest and best ever nominatedin the county.
Of Col. Manning, whose name appears at the head of the ticket, we needsay but little. As a representative of tact and ability he has few, if any,superior in the State of Kansas. Whatever he undertakes to do he does manfullyand well. The poisoned barbs of cruel unscrupulous enemies has never yetturned him aside from the path of duty, honor, and integrity. We predictthat the people of Cowley County, regardless of the malicious persecutionsof malignant enemies, will prove their appreciation of Col. Manning's worthas a man and his ability as a legislator by giving him a rousing majoritynext November.
Of Sheriff Walker and M. G. Troup we need say nothing; they have eachserved one term and their work speaks for them. The people of Cowley Countybelieving in genuine reform, will see to it that these men who have servedthem so faithfully and well will still continue to serve them.
T. R. Bryan, of Dexter, E. P. Kinne, of Arkansas City, Wirt W. Walton,and Dr. John Hedrick, of Winfield, are gentlemen in every way worthy ofthe support of every voter in Cowley County, for the several offices forwhich they have been nominated.
The most important office by far is that of Commissioner. For this officewe have three gentlemen in every respect perfectly capable of managing theaffairs of the county.
William White, of Rock, although still young, is a man of mature judgment,good qualifications, and with a little experience will make a splendid Commissioner.
Of Mr. Sleeth we know but little, but his friends in whom we have fullconfidence, assure us that he is a gentleman of acknowledged ability andexperience, who will bring to the discharge of his duties that practicalbusiness knowledge which is so essential a requisite in a County Commissioner.
R. F. Burden is the present Chairman of the County Board, whose servicesare before the public. He is a gentleman of good heart and sound judgment,and with an experience of two years cannot fail to give entire satisfaction,at least as much so as mortal man could give on the Board of County Commissionersof Cowley County.
We have neither the time nor space this week which we would like to devoteto the different candidates, but will have more to say in the future.
As a whole the ticket is unusually strong. In its selection the Conventionshowed itself fully alive to the wants and wishes of its constituents, andwe have no shadow of doubt but the good work will be fully ratified at thecoming November election.
Since the above was put in type, we have been handed Col. Manning's carddeclining the nomination for Representative. We are extremely sorry, aswill be all his friends, that the Colonel sees fit to take this step. Believingas we do that he would be a representative of which not alone Cowley County,but the State of Kansas, would be proud, we most reluctantly consent tohis withdrawal from the canvass.
REPUBLICAN TICKET.
FOR REPRESENTATIVE: EDWIN C. MANNING OF WINFIELD.
FOR SHERIFF: R. L. WALKER OF VERNON.
FOR COUNTY CLERK: M. G. TROUP OF TISDALE.
FOR TREASURER: THOMAS R. BRYAN OF DEXTER.
FOR REGISTER OF DEEDS: EZRA P. KINNE OF CRESWELL.
FOR COUNTY SURVEYOR: WIRT W. WALTON OF WINFIELD.
FOR CORONER: DR. JOHN HEDRICK OF WINFIELD.
FOR COMMISSIONERS:
1ST DIST. - WILLIAM WHITE OF ROCK.
2ND DIST. - WILLIAM SLEETH OF CRESWELL.
3RD DIST. - R. F. BURDEN OF WINDSOR.
NOMINATED AT CONVENTION FOR REPRESENTATIVE:
E. C. MANNING, WM. P. HACKNEY, NATHAN HUGHES, AND WILLIAM WHITE. Thefirst was an informal ballot, which resulted as follows: Manning 32, Hackney11, White 5, Hughes, 12. After considerable sparing, Col. Manning, for thesake of harmony, declined the nomination. The names of L. J. Webb and JamesMcDermott were placed before the Convention. The friends of Manning insistedon still voting for him and so declared their intention, whereupon the namesof Webb and McDermott were withdrawn. The first ballot resulted as follows:Manning, 29 votes, Hackney, 22, Hughes, 9. No choice, Hughes withdrew hisname in favor of W. P. Hackney. Second ballot resulted as follows: Manning,32 votes; Hackney, 28. Manning declared nominated.
Winfield Courier, October 7, 1875.
Monday we surveyed the county road petitioned for by John Annis, et al,of Bolton Township. Beginning at the south end of the Arkansas River bridgeand running northwest to the township line. This is one of the most importantroads in the southern part of the county. The immense travel of Bolton,in this county, and Walton and other townships in Sumner County, as farwest as Caldwell, has been compelled to go at least one mile out of a directline in order to get to this bridge, the only crossing on the Arkansas southof Oxford. The aggrieved party in this case is Reuben Bowers, Esq., whoowns the land near the bridge. His damage he assesses at one thousand dollars.The viewers, Thos. H. Henderson and Geo. W. Melville, awarded him one hundredand fifty dollars. The reports went before the Commissioners on Tuesday,and the attorneys in the case agreed to lay it over till the next sessionof the Board. L. J. Webb, of this city, has been employed by the defendant,and Amos Walton is advisor for the principal petitioner.
Winfield Courier, October 21, 1875.
Hon. L. J. Webb has gone to Topeka on business.
Winfield Courier, October 28, 1875.
L. J. Webb has returned.
Winfield Courier, November 18, 1875.
I know who steals my wood, having twice seen the party. When he comesagain, I shall give him a load of buckshot. L. J. WEBB.
Winfield Courier, November 25, 1875.
L. J. Webb has taken up winter quarters in the neat law office of A.H. Green.
Winfield Courier, December 2, 1875.
There will be a stated Communication of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, A. F.& A. M., Tuesday night, December 7th, at 7 o'clock. After the regularbusiness the annual election of officers will take place. All members areexpected to attend.
Winfield Courier, December 23, 1875.
Last Tuesday evening the following officers were installed by AdelphiLodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M.
J. S. Hunt: W. M.
J. E. Saint: S. W.
A. B. Lemmon: J. W.
B. F. Baldwin: Treasurer.
Frank Gallotti: Secretary.
J. H. Land: Chaplain.
L. J. Webb: S. D.
C. C. Black: J. D.
W. W. Steinhour: Tyler.
Judging from the list of new officers we should say that Adelphi is inpretty good running order, and likely to be kept so.
Winfield Courier, December 23, 1875.
Mr. Henry Asp, late student of the Commercial and Business College atRock Island, Illinois, has commenced the study of law with our excellentlegal light, L. J. Webb. Mr. Asp is a young man of good culture and pleasingaddress. He comes among us well recommended. May the enterprise he embarksin here be a successful one. "There is always room at the top."
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
VOL. 4, NO. 1.
PRODUCED EVERY THURSDAY BY E. C. MANNING.
FRONT PAGE: HISTORY, RESOURCES, AND STATISTICS OF COWLEY COUNTYFROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT TO JANUARY 1ST, A. D. 1876.
There are at present four newspapers published in this county, threeof which, the COURIER, Plow and Anvil, and the Cowley CountyTelegram, are published at Winfield; and the fourth, the ArkansasCity Traveler, is published at Arkansas City. The first paper publishedin the county was the Cowley County Censor, the first number ofwhich was issued at Winfield, Aug. 13, 1870, by A. J. Patrick, who was theeditor and proprietor. The Censor was a six column paper. The firsttwo numbers were printed at Augusta, the type having been set up here andsent in galleys to Augusta. Number three was printed here on the historicalpress of Kansas, the history of which is given by S. S. Prouty as follows.
"Rev. Joseph Meeker brought the first press into Kansas Territory.This was in 1834. Mr. Meeker was a missionary to the Ottawa Indians. TheOttawa Mission was near where the town of Ottawa now stands. Mr. Meeker,a long time prior to the commencement of settlement by the whites, printeda book with that press.
"The State of Kansas should recover that Meeker press and preserveit at the capital. Kansas will have a centennial some day. From Meeker thepress passed into the hands of George W. Brown. In 1857 Brown sold it toS. S. Prouty. Prouty owned the press for years, and used it in the publicationof the Freemen's Champion and the Neosho Valley Register.Prouty sold it to S. Weaver, who used it at Lecompton. From thence it wentto Cottonwood Falls, and from thence to Cowley County. It is now supposedto be in the Indian Territory, on its march of conquest. It was a Seth Adamsmanufacture, oval at the top. There were twenty stars on it, indicatingthat at the time of its manufacture there were twenty states in the Union.This was in 1817, as the twenty-first State was admitted in 1818."
Prouty's supposition that the press was in the Indian Territory was notcorrect. About eighteen months ago it was sold by S. C. Smith to W. H. Kerns,Smith having taken it under a chattel mortgage given by Kerns in January,1873. Kerns took it to Missouri, where at last accounts he was publishinga paper with it.
Patrick was succeeded by L. J. Webb as editor of the Censor,June 3, 1871, and on the 5th of August following, Webb & Doud boughtPatrick out and continued the publication of the paper until the 26th ofthe month, when E. G. Nichols succeeded Doud, and the firm became Webb &Nichols. In the month of September following the paper was enlarged to sevencolumns. January 6th, 1872, Webb and Nichols sold out to W. H. Kerns, whenthe Censor ceased to exist. January 13th Kerns commenced the publicationof the Winfield Messenger, a seven column paper, and on the 4thof July, the same year, was succeeded by Yale Bro.'s, who published untilthe 5th of December, when they broke up and moved the office and material,except the old press, to McPherson County.
The next paper after the Censor was the Traveler, asix column paper, the first number of which was issued August 24, 1870.We believe it was the first paper printed in the county, coming out a fewdays before the third number of the Censor.
The Traveler was published by M. G. Mains, with H. B. Nortonas editor and C. M. Scott as local. On the 15th of December, 1870, L. B.Kellogg succeeded Mains in the proprietor-ship and became the editor, withNorton special contributor and Scott local. On the first day of September,1870, Scott bought Kellogg out, since which time he has carried on the paperalone.
Number 1, volume 1, of the Telegram, was published at Tisdaleon the 12th day of September, 1872, by W. M. Allison. Five numbers wereissued at Tisdale, and on the 28th of November No. 6 was published at Winfieldby Allison. In the month of January, 1873, Allison associated with him A.H. Hane, under the firm name of Allison & Hane, who published the paperuntil the 20th of March, when Hane was succeeded by A. B. Steinberger (nowof the Howard City Courant). Allison & Steinberger dissolvedJuly 3, 1873, since which time Allison has published the Telegram.The press on which the Telegram is now published is of the samemanufacture and age of the Meeker press. Allison has edited the paper sinceit started.
On the 11th day of January, 1873, R. S. Waddell & Co. started theCOURIER at Winfield and continued its publication with R. S. Waddelleditor and J. C. Lillie local editor until March 27th following, when JamesKelly purchased the office. Kelly at once assumed the publication of thepaper, editing it himself, with V. B. Beckett local. Beckett did the localsuntil March 4, 1875. Kelly conducted the paper alone from that time untilJuly 1st, when Wirt W. Walton became and has ever since been local editor.On the 11th of November last E. C. Manning became editor and publisher.
On the 19th day of November, 1874, the Plow and Anvil made itsfirst appearance, with Col. J. M. Alexander editor and proprietor. Col.Alexander was succeeded by Amos Walton and C. M. McIntire, the present editorsand proprietors, April 22 last.
The Censor was, and the Traveler and COURIERare, republican in politics. The Messenger was, and the Telegramand Plow and Anvil are independent in politics.
WINFIELD COURIER, THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 1876.
VOL. 4, NO. 1.
PRODUCED EVERY THURSDAY BY E. C. MANNING.
On the 29th day of October, 1870, a dispensation was granted to J. S.Hunt, A. H. Green, Enoch Maris, and eight others for a lodge at Winfield.J. S. Hunt was appointed W. M.; A. H. Green, S. W.; and Enoch Maris, J.W. On the 17th day of October, 1872, the lodge obtained a charter underthe name of Adelphi, No. 119, with the following charter members: J. S.Hunt, A. H. Green, Enoch Maris, C. A. Bliss, A. A. Jackson, W. M. Boyer,H. Shaughness, I. L. Comfort, E. Adams, Thomas Hart, W. S. Huff, S. H. Revis,T. A. Rice, and J. Traxler.
The same officers were installed under the charter and held their officesuntil Jan. 1st, 1873, when Enoch Maris was elected W. M.; W. M. Boyer, S.W.; and T. A. Rice, J. W.
January 1st, 1874, Enoch Maris was re-elected W. M.; T. A. Rice, S. W.;and W. G. Graham, S. W.
January 1st, 1875, L. J. Webb was elected W. M.; W. G. Graham, S. W.;and J. E. Saint, J. W.
For the present year J. S. Hunt was elected W. M.; J. E. Saint, S. W.;and A. B. Lemmon, J. W.
The lodge now has forty-six members and is in a healthy condition morallyand financially.
About one year after the organization of Adelphi, a dispensation wasgranted to the craft at Arkansas City, and in due time they received a charterunder the name of Crescent Lodge, No. 133, with O. S. Smith, W. M.; E. B.Kager, S. W. Dexter Lodge is spoken of elsewhere.
On the 15th of March, 1875, a dispensation was granted M. L. Read, H.P.; M. C. Baker, K.; John D. Pryor, Scribe; W. C. Robinson, C. H.; A. Howland,P. S.; W. G. Graham, R. A. C.; J. W. Johnston, M. 3rd V.; P. Hill, M. 1stV.; A. A. Newman, member. October 19th, a charter was issued to them underthe name Winfield Chapter, R. A. M., No. 31; and on the 26th of the samemonth the Chapter was instituted by J. C. Bennett, of Emporia. A list ofthe officers for this year was published last week. This branch of Masonryhere is in good working order and in a healthy condition financially.
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1876.
WALKER - WEBB. Tuesday evening, January 4th, 1876, at the residence ofthe bride's brother, L. J. Webb, by Rev. N. L. Rigby, Mr. R. L. Walker andMiss Sadie A. Webb.
Everybody in the county knows Dick Walker and no one has more friendsthan he. They all rejoice at his good sense and good fortune in selectinga companion for life. His new wife, though not one of the "old settlers,"has many friends in our midst and quietly captured the Captain that allthe girls were going crazy after. "Still waters run deep."
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1876.
In beginning the "Centennial year," with an enterprise likethe one we have engaged in this week, it is but right and proper that wemake honorable mention of the men who, by giving us their patronage, havegreatly helped us in the "financial" part thereof.
Alphabetically arranged, they appear as follows.
WEBB, L. J., the irrepressible, ex-newspaper editor; the jolly, hilarious,"one of 'em" when among the boys; the solid businessman, when"it's business," and the acknowledged leading criminal lawyerin the district, still liveth. His origin, like "Topsy's," weknow not. He has always been here and expects to remain here till he is--translated.
Winfield Courier, January 20, 1876.
Lawyer Webb is having his hands full of practice. If Webb can't win asuit, it cannot be won at all.
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1876.
LINUS WEBB, brother of L. J., is now a law student in Winfield.
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1876.
GRAND MASTER SHARP, A. F. & A. M., has appointed Leland J. Webb,of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, an Assistant Lecturer. Adelphi now holds itsstated communications on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, anda school of instruction on the second and fourth Tuesdays, at seven o'clockp.m.
[RAILROAD MEETING: RESIDENTS OF COWLEY COUNTY.]
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1876.
The undersigned, residents of Cowley County, cordially unite in invitingthe citizens of said county to meet in mass meeting at Winfield, on Saturdayat 2 P. M.,
to take such action as shall seem advisable upon consultation to securethe construction of a railroad into Cowley County. We desire each paperin said county to publish this call, and we hope that every township willbe fully represented at said meeting.
Dated January 25, 1876.
ROCK TOWNSHIP: John M. Harcourt, Robert F. Bailey, Andrew Dawson, JohnFoster, J. L. Foster, Jess. J. Tribby, H. D. Lee, W. B. Wimer.
BEAVER TOWNSHIP: William D. Lester, B. W. Jenkins, John A. McCulloch,W. A. Freeman.
VERNON TOWNSHIP: Wm. Martin, C. M. Denkin, R. L. Walker.
SPRING CREEK TOWNSHIP: R. P. Goodrich, Cyrus Wilson, F. W. Vance.
TISDALE TOWNSHIP: E. P. Young, D. H. Southworth.
LIBERTY TOWNSHIP: Chas. W. Frith, J. L. H. Darnall.
NENNESCAH TOWNSHIP: Elmore Ansen.
PLEASANT VALLEY TOWNSHIP: B. W. Sitter, T. J. Harris.
OTTER TOWNSHIP: H. C. Fisher, R. R. Turner.
OMNIA TOWNSHIP: Elisha Harned.
DEXTER TOWNSHIP: T. W. Coats, J. D. Maurer, Mark Kenton Hull, Levi Quier,J. A. Bryan, George Bryan.
WINFIELD: M. L. Read, S. D. Pryor, N. M. Powers, N. W. Holmes, N. L.Rigby, Thomas McMillen, L. J. Webb, Charles C. Black, J. S. Hunt, W. M.Boyer, John W. Curns, G. S. Manser, B. F. Baldwin, J. H. Land, A. H. Green,W. Q. Mansfield, E. C. Manning, S. H. Myton, J. C. Fuller, A. B. Lemmon,James Kelly, W. H. H. Maris, T. H. Henderson, A. N. Deming, H. S. Silver,J. M. Alexander, Amos Walton, D. A. Millington, J. E. Platter, W. M. Allison,And one hundred others.
[EDITORIAL COLUMN: E. C. MANNING, EDITOR.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, February 3, 1876.
On Saturday of this week the people of Cowley County will assemble atWinfield to give expression to their wishes upon the question of securingthe construction of a railroad into Cowley County. If the day is fair thegathering promises to be large. We hope the citizens of Winfield will endeavorto make the occasion as pleasant and harmonious as possible. The desirefor a road into the county is almost universal among its people. Withoutreference to particular routes or gauge let that desire be expressed inearnest and unequivocal terms.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 16, 1876.
The following is a list of Marriage Licenses issued by Probate JudgeGans, during the month of January.
Cyrus Watkins and Annie Wood.
George W. Arnold and Lorenia Zimmerman.
R. L. Walker and Sadie Webb.
Joseph Seeton and Mary Ann Smith.
M. L. Martin and J. Olmstead.
D. D. Jones and S. S. Trimble.
L. L. Newton and Malissa Dawson.
Chancy C. Robinson and Mary Wood.
M. H. G. Thomas and Vilenda W. Wood.
W. C. Webb...
Arkansas City Traveler, March 1, 1876.
The Apportionment Bill was worked at some in the Senate, and was turnedover to a committee for the finishing touches and passed in the afternoon,22 to 10. S. B. 104 prescribing how insurance policies shall be printedwas recommended for passage in committee of the whole. S. B. 120, allowingrailroads to build branches after having filed a notice in the office ofthe Secretary of State was also recommended. S. B. 71, exempting a years'crops from taxation was also recommended. Senator Robinson's bill in regardto the bonds to be given by county commissioners, was recommended subjectto amendment. The S. B. giving the counsel for the prisoner at the bar thelast speech. S. B. 202 occupied all the evening session. It is an able bodiedbill of 69 pages, and is a codification of the school laws, but makes veryfew radical changes.
The House passed an exciting day over the appropriations for the NormalSchools. The appropriation ($10,348) for the Leavenworth school was thefirst to come up. Mr. Hackney led off in the fight on the appropriation.Mr. Taylor, of Leavenworth, made a good fight for the school. Most of thetalk, however, came from the opposition, and finally Hackney's motion toindefinitely postpone, was carried, 56 to 37. The Emporia appropriation($13,667.50) came up next and a very bitter debate took place on Hackney'smotion to indefinitely postpone. Messrs. Eskridge, Cook, Elder and othersspoke in favor of the institution. Hackney's motion was adopted, 53 to 43.
In the afternoon the State University appropriation came up. Mr. Watersoffered an amendment appropriating $3,000 to establish a normal departmentin the University. Mr. Glick thought that the professors were paid too much,and moved that the bill be recommended to the Ways and Means committee withinstructions to report a new bill providing for a normal department andgiving an itemized statement of teacher's wages. This motion prevailed.
Mr. Hackney rushed in with a motion to indefinitely postpone the billappropriating $22,420.56 for the Agricultural College, but was voted down,83 to 7. Some of the items were stricken out and the bill appropriating$15,300 passed, 65 to 7.
In the evening the House complied with a request of W. C. Webb, counselfor A. J. Mowry, and the order to publish the testimony in his case wasrescinded. S. B. 182 passed. As amended it provides for the appointmentof the three following institutions: the Blind Asylum and the Deaf and Dumband Insane Asylums.
H. G. Webb...Uncle of Leland J. Webb.
Winfield Courier, March 2, 1876.
The apportionment bill that passed the Senate last Friday giving CowleyCounty one Senator and two Representatives, still hangs fire. It went tothe House Saturday morning and was a firebrand. All day Saturday was spentin its consideration. The House first disagreed to the Senate amendments.The bill went back to the Senate. That body then voted to postpone the considerationof the bill until Monday at 2 P.M. This frightened the House. It fearedthere would be no apportionment bill passed at all. The House then passeda resolution calling the bill back from the Senate. This soon brought thebill back into the House. It was then moved to concur in the Senate amendmentsand following this the previous question was ordered. This cut off all filibusteringand the roll was called. Fifty votes were obtained for final passage orconcurrence, which was all that was necessary. The Chief Clerk did not announcethe result, but gave the roll to his assistant to figure up while he wentamong the members and succeeded in having two or three votes changed fromaye to no, and thus defeated the bill.
Then the bill was returned to the Senate with the information that theHouse would not concur in the Senate amendments. Sam Wood and H. G. Webbfought the bill in the house vigorously. What will be the final result Icannot tell. But it is of so much importance to Cowley County that I feelthat I ought to remain here and help to save Cowley as a Senatorial Districtif possible.
The Committee on State affairs which has been hunting up the bogus schoolbond business have got trace of some fraudulent school district bonds fromCowley County. They interviewed me upon the subject and I ventured the statementthat no County Clerk or Superintendent of Public Instruction in Cowley Countyever lent his name or seal to any such swindle.
While I have not had the highest opinion of some of the aforesaid officersin our county, I cannot believe that they were bad enough to be partiesto a bond swindle. I pronounced the bonds, if any such have been issued,to be forgeries in toto and do not believe the parties thereto ever livedin Cowley County.
The names are suppressed at present in the hope that the rascals canbe caught. The reputation of Cowley County is excellent here. It is lookedupon as a first-class agricultural county and as being filled with honestmen, and the representative men from that county command respect everywhere.Of course, we all hope that no citizen of our county will be found guiltyof paying bonds of any kind, or of attempting a swindle of any character.
I have no railroad news to write.
Comments by Manning: "I am a looker on in the Legislative Halls.The session will close next week. It has been a boisterous one in the House.Very few laws have been passed. Some very much needed Legislation has beenneglected. Buncomb speeches and resolutions have been mainly indulged in."
Winfield Courier, March 9, 1876.
L. J. Webb has moved his law offices upstairs over Mrs. Howard's millinerystore.
Winfield Courier, March 30, 1876.
Jewels have been worn in all ages by all classes of human beings "withoutregard to race, color, or previous condition of servitude." From theworld's infancy down to the present time, ornaments of precious stones,or other valuable material, have adorned the figures, enriched the costumes,and designated the honored among men. The ice-bound Laplander and the Hottentot,under a meridian sun, alike give to their chiefs the most precious materialsfor their badges of office. Glittering diamonds always have and always willencircle the brows of eastern monarchs. Europe, the cradle of liberty andcivilization, will ever guard with zealous care the crown jewels of herEmpires. Pendant from the ears of the Sandwich Island belle will ever rattlethe ivory of the scuttle fish. The love-sick rural swain commemorates thebirthday of his help-mate in passe by the present of, to her, ajewel, though it be but a circular band of polished brass. The same love,admiration, or whatever it may be, that prompts him to show this preference,finds an abiding place, controlled maybe by different circ*mstances, inthe hearts of all men all over the world.
And this leads us to say that, at the regular meeting of Adelphia Lodge,No. 110, of A. F. & A. M., held at their hall on the 21st inst., ourfellow townsman, and Past Master of Adelphia, Leland J. Webb, was made thehappy recipient of the most beautiful "jewel" we have ever hadthe pleasure of seeing. It is an elaborately finished Past Master's jewel,emblematical of that distinctive office in the ancient order above referredto. It was purchased by his brother members and presented him in open lodgeas a token of their high appreciation of him whilst Master of their "work,"and further, as a milestone, as it were, to mark the era in his life whenhe publicly announced his intention to hope for brighter "jewels"in the world beyond. The ornament itself is a beautiful silver medal, sixinches in circumference, filigreed with the traditional "square andcompass." On the engraved side is finely marked the "All-seeing-eye,"the "twenty-four inch gauge," the "gavel," "plummet,""Ionian pillars," and a host of we-don't-know-whats. On the reverseside is engraved the words, "Leland J. Webb, P. M. of Adelphia Lodge,No. 110," and, "Presented by the Members." The jewel is suspendedfrom a silver pin by a broad blue ribbon, which, in turn, is clasped bytwo silver cross-bars, and all encased in a handsomely silk-lined casket.The presentation speech, made by A. B. Lemmon, J. W., is said to have beena splendid effort, and only eclipsed in brilliancy, by the light reflectingfrom the jewel in his hand.
Cowley County Democrat, Thursday, April 6, 1876.
LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW.--Two doors north ofMyton's Hardware Store, upstairs, Winfield, Kansas.
Linus S. Webb, Brother of Leland J. Webb...
Winfield Courier, April 6, 1876.
The following is the result of the vote cast at the city election heldin Winfield last Monday.
For Mayor, D. A. Millington: 81 votes.
For Police Judge, Linus S. Webb: 75 votes.
For Councilman, A. B. Lemmon: 86 votes.
For Councilman, C. A. Bliss: 81 votes.
For Councilman, T. B. Myers: 84 votes.
For Councilman, H. Brotherton: 88 votes.
For Councilman, M. G. Troup: 91 votes.
For Mayor, H. S. Silver: 86 votes.
For Police Judge, J. W. Curns: 81 votes.
For Councilman, N. Roberson: 71 votes.
For Councilman, A. G. Wilson: 76 votes.
For Councilman, N. M. Powers: 70 votes.
For Councilman, W. L. Mullen: 57 votes.
For Councilman, Frank Williams: 76 votes.
SCATTERING: J. P. McMillen received 20 votes, C. C. Black 1; and J. P.Short 3, for Councilmen; and J. D. Pryor 5 votes for Police Judge.
Linus Webb, brother of Leland J. Webb, lost to Curns!
Cowley County Democrat, Thursday, April 6, 1876.
The district court opened on Monday; Judge Campbell on the bench. Attorneyspresent: A. J. McDonald of Wellington; C. R. Mitchell and James Christianof Arkansas City; James McDermott of Dexter; Mr. Ruggles of Wichita; ByronSherry of Leavenworth; J. M. Alexander, A. H. Green, L. J. Webb, D. A. Millington,A. J. Pyburn, T. H. Suits, W. P. Hackney, E. C. Manning, John Allen, Wm.Boyer, S. D. Pryor, W. M. Boyer, and Amos Walton of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1876.
City Council met in adjourned session, March 21st, A. D. 1876.
Present: D. A. Millington, Mayor; N. M. Powers, C. C. Black, and M. G.Troup, Councilmen; B. F. Baldwin, City Clerk.
Minutes of previous meeting were read and approved.
The following bills were presented, read, and allowed, and on motionof M. G. Troup, the Clerk was ordered to draw a warrant on the Treasurerfor the same.
J. M. Reed, clerk of city election, on April 3rd, A. D. 1876, $2.00;J. F. Miller, Judge of city election, $2.00; C. C. Black, Judge of cityelection, $2.00; M. Miller, padlock and nails for city, 85 cents; Simpson& Stewart, repairs on jail, $3.00.
Fee bill of W. M. Boyer, Police Judge, was read, and, on motion of C.C. Black, was laid over.
The Finance Committee made the following report on the cancellation ofcity warrants:
To the Honorable Mayor and Council of the city of Winfield, county ofCowley, and State of Kansas, we your Finance Committee beg leave to reportthat we have examined the enclosed package and find it to contain two hundredand forty-three vouchers of the value of $2,467.17, and that said vouchershave been duly canceled on the Winfield city warrant record, and recommendthat they be destroyed.
M. G. Troup, ) Finance Committee.
Chas. C. Black. )
On motion of N. M. Powers the report was received and the vouchers destroyed.
On motion of N. M. Powers, the City Clerk was instructed to make outand present to the County Commissioners a bill of $8.00, amount paid toSimpson & Stewart for repairs on the jail.
The City Council proceeded to canvass the vote of Winfield city election,held on April 3rd, A. D., 1876, which resulted as follows:
Whole number of votes cast: 182.
For Mayor: D. A. Millington, 81; H. S. Silver, 80, E. S. Bedilion, 1.
For Police Judge: Linus S. Webb, 75; J. W. Curns, 81; J. D. Pryor, 5.
For Councilmen: A. B. Lemmon, 86; M. G. Troup, 91; C. A. Bliss, 81; T.B. Myers, 84; H. Brotherton, 88; N. Roberson, 71; Frank Williams, 76; N.M. Powers, 70; A. G. Wilson, 76; W. L. Mullin, 57; J. P. McMillen, 20; C.C. Black, 3; J. P. Short, 1.
D. A. Millington, having received the highest number of votes for Mayor,was declared elected. J. W. Curns, receiving the highest number of votesfor Police Judge, was declared elected. A. B. Lemmon, M. G. Troup, T. B.Myers, C. A. Bliss, and H. Brotherton, receiving the highest number of votesfor Councilmen, were declared elected.
On motion the Clerk was ordered to furnish each of the above named aselected with certificates of election.
On motion Council adjourned.
Winfield Courier, April 13, 1876.
Mr. L. J. Webb had forty-two cases upon the trial docket of this termof Court.
Winfield Courier, April 27, 1876.
L. J. Webb was elected to the office of Worthy Chief Templar, of WinfieldLodge, I. O. G. T., last Monday night.
Winfield Courier, April 27, 1876.
On Monday evening last at the regular meeting of Winfield Lodge, No.79, I. O. G. T., officers were elected as follows: L. J. Webb, W. C. T.;Miss Ella Walton, W. V. T.; T. C. Copeland, W. R. Sec.; Fred C. Hunt, W.F. Sec.; Miss Nellie Powers, W. Treas.; Henry E. Asp, W. Chap.; F. W. Finch,W. M.; Miss Ella Freeland, W. I. G.; George Gray, W. O. G.
Arkansas City Traveler, May 10, 1876.
L. J. WEBB, of Winfield, is a prominent officer in the Good Templar'sLodge and member of church.
Winfield Courier, May 18, 1876.
Pursuant to call the Republican delegates from the townships of the 88thRepresentative District met in convention at the Courthouse in Winfieldlast Saturday.
On motion, W. B. Norman, of Maple, was chosen chairman, and Wm. White,secretary of the meeting.
After the usual formalities were disposed of, the delegates present proceededto vote for two delegates and two alternates to represent this districtin the State Convention, May 24, 1876. The choice fell upon D. A. Millingtonand E. P. Kinne, with respective alternates, as follows: Charles Eagen,of Rock, and J. M. Alexander, of Winfield.
All motions to adopt resolutions declaring for Presidential candidateswere tabled, though the meeting was strongly Blaine in sentiment.
On motion the following District Republican central committee was chosen:L. J. Webb, B. Shriver, and W. B. Norman.
On motion the convention adjourned sine die.
[FOURTH OF JULY PREPARATIONS.]
Winfield Courier, June 1, 1876.
Last Saturday, pursuant to call, the citizens of Winfield met at theCourthouse and organized a meeting by calling D. A. Millington to the chairand electing C. M. McIntire secretary.
After deliberation as to what steps should be taken to appropriatelycelebrate the 4th of July of the Centennial year, the following committeewas appointed to draft a plan of procedure and report to a meeting of citizenslast night: James Kelly, J. P. Short, C. M. McIntire, W. B. Gibbs, and W.C. Robinson.
At the appointed hour, Wednesday evening, the meeting assembled at theCourthouse and organized by selecting C. A. Bliss, chairman, and J. E. Allenas secretary. The committee made a report which, after some amendments madeby the meeting, was finally adopted.
Gen'l Supt.: Prof. A. B. Lemmon.
County Historian: W. W. Walton.
Committee of Arrangements: C. M. Wood, M. L. Bangs, W. B. Vandeventer,John Lowry, J. D. Cochran.
Committee on Programme: H. D. Gans, E. P. Kinne, James Kelly, B. F. Baldwin,W. M. Allison.
Committee on Speakers: E. C. Manning, L. J. Webb, Chas. McIntire.
Committee on Finance: W. C. Robinson, W. P. Hackney, O. F. Boyle, M.G. Troup, J. C. Fuller.
Committee on Music: J. D. Pryor, Mrs. W. D. Roberts, Miss Mollie Bryant.
Committee on Toasts: A. J. Pyburn, J. E. Allen, J. P. Short, Dr. J. Hedrick.
Committee on Stand: W. E. Tansey, T. B. Myers, W. B. Gibbs.
Committee on Decoration: Frank Gallotti, John Swain, I. Randall, MaryStewart, Jennie Greenlee, Ada Millington, Mrs. Rigby, Mrs. Mansfield.
Committee on Invitation: D. A. Millington, L. C. Harter, J. B. Lynn,C. A. Bliss, J. P. McMillen, H. S. Silver, A. H. Green, S. S. Majors, C.M. Scott, T. B. McIntire, R. C. Haywood, J. L. Abbott, John Blevins, T.R. Bryan, H. C. McDorman, Mc. D. Stapleton, S. M. Fall, J. Stalter, Wm.White, S. S. Moore, Jno. McGuire, H. P. Heath, J. O. Van Orsdol, G. B. Green,W. B. Skinner, J. W. Millspaw.
Committee on Fireworks: G. S. Manser, T. K. Johnson, C. C. Haskins.
Meeting adjourned to meet at the call of the General Superintendent.
Winfield Courier, June 1, 1876.
Attention is called to the card of the new law firm of Messrs. L. J.Webb and E. S. Torrance in this issue. These gentlemen are so well knownin our county that it would be useless to say that they will command a goodpractice.
NOTICE SHOWED: Office upstairs, over Mrs. Howard's Millinery Store, Winfield,Kansas.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 21, 1876.
At a meeting of the County Central Committee, held Monday, June 19th,Prof. Lemmon was chosen Chairman of the District Judicial Committee. Present:Esquire Morris, of Beaver, L. J. Webb, of Winfield, R. L. Walker, of Nenescah,A. B. Lemmon, of Winfield, C. M. Scott, of Creswell.
Linus Webb, brother of Leland J. Webb...
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1876.
That is not a statue, representing a Knight of the 13th century, withlance at rest, that has been standing under the bridge at Bliss' mill damfor the past week, but Linus Webb, with pitchfork in hand watching for afish.
Has to be Leland J. Webb...
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1876.
On returning from Wellington last Sunday, Mr. Webb drove into a swarmof greenhead flies, which attacked his horses, causing them to run a distanceof nearly a mile. They were frenzied with pain and fear. It was impossibleto hold them. The off horse, kicking violently all the time, ran the entiredistance astride of the buggy pole. On nearing a bridge Mrs. Webb, realizingthe danger, assisted her husband in swinging the team into a hedge fence,thereby stopping them with but little damage to horse flesh or buggy. Mr.Webb says the flies literally covered the horses. Had they not telescopedthe fence when they did, they might have had a serious accident at the bridge,resulting fatally to one or both of them.
Winfield Courier, June 29, 1876.
In company with J. Ex. Saint, we drove over to Wellington last Saturdayand attended the "Masonic Fourth of July," or the anniversaryof St. John's Day. The celebration was held in a beautiful grove, abouta mile south of town, to which the Wellington Masonry, accompanied by visitingbrethren, marched in regalia from their lodge. Arriving at the grove JudgeM. S. Adams, of Wichita, was introduced as the orator of the day. He cameforward and delivered a fine oration, giving in detail the history of thetime-honored institution of which he is a worthy member. His speech waswell received. After the oration, which lasted about an hour, the brethren,sisters, and everybody else were called from--speeches to refreshment--acall that was gladly responded to by the hungry multitude. Dinner beingover, order was once more restored, whereupon the Master introduced ourfellow townsman, L. J. Webb, who delivered an address well worth listeningto. It was a brilliant and succinct history of the rise and progress ofthe mysterious brotherhood, and contained many useful and valuable lessons.The address closed the public exercises. The members repaired to the lodge,where Winfield was again honored by having three of our shining lights chosento conduct in due form the closing proceedings of the day.
The persons in attendance from Winfield were W. P. Hackney and wife,Judge McDonald and wife, Prof. Lemmon and wife, L. J. Webb and wife, J.Ex. Saint, and the writer hereof. A part of our delegation remained andtook part in the "light fantastic toe" performance, which beganat the courthouse at "early candle light" and was kept up tillthe near appearance of Sunday. Everybody seemed gay and happy,in spite of the thunder storm, which was raging without, and all went homewell pleased.
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1876.
Greene, correspondent of the Kansas City Journal, writing fromCowley County, says L. J. Webb is a candidate for Judge of the 13th JudicialDistrict. He is an able lawyer, but is rather young to aspire to the bench,we should say. The same correspondent says everybody in the Walnut Valleyis in favor of Ryan for Congress; but then Greene lives at Topeka and maybe biased, you know. Elk Falls Ledger.
Mr. Webb will have a good many friends in a judicial convention.
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1876.
L. J. WEBB, Esq., of Winfield, delivered an able and eloquent discourse,to the Masonic fraternity, at the celebration last Saturday. Mr. Webb'saddress came in just after dinner, when everybody was in a good humor, andit was of course, well received.
Sumner County Press.
Mrs. L. J. Webb...
[CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION.]
Winfield Courier, July 6, 1876.
Tuesday, as the sun stole softly out and the grey streaks of morninglit up the eastern horizon, a hundred guns pealed forth the dawn of theNation's one-hundredth birthday. The firing had barely ceased when the roadsand by-ways for many miles around could be seen lined with sturdy yeomenof our county, all hurrying to Winfield to join in the festivities of "Theday we celebrate." Soon the streets, avenues, and vacant lots of ouryoung city were swarming with a moving mass of happy people. And still theycame till it seemed the Walnut Valley would scarcely contain the vast multitudethat were entering it from every side.
They came in wagons and carriages. They came on horse-back and they cameon foot. They came from the prairies and valleys, and from the towns andsurrounding neighborhoods. Old folks, young folks, big folks, and littlefolks, all came. Everybody came and
and sweethearts, their friends and relatives, their neighbors and theirneighbor's children. They brought wagons full of baskets, and baskets fullof dinner. They brought everything they wanted, and were happy.
They made big preparations to celebrate the 4th of July. Held meetings,appointed good men on committees, and set them to work. They arranged aprogramme and furnished the funds with which to carry it out. They filledtheir baskets; invited strangers to help empty them, unfurled the starrybanner, burnt powder, turned the American Eagle loose, and were happy too.
They formed a procession--a procession reaching from the center of townfar out into the country--a procession in which everything, from a countryeditor to the Congress of the United States was represented. Led by theWinfield Silver Cornet Band, and following, in the order named: By the Goddessof Liberty, the American Congress, the Sisterhood of States, and a long,unbroken line of Masons, Odd Fellows, Good Templars, Grangers, and citizensin carriages, wagons, and horse-back, the procession marched out to andaround the race track, back by way of Ninth Avenue to Main street, up Mainto 8th, across to Manning, down Manning to the brewery road, and thencealong it a half mile to the grove.
The Silver Cornet Band made a festive appearance in their sky-blue uniform,mounted on a wagon covered with the "red, white, and blue," drawnby four horses, as they led off in the procession to the tune of "HailColumbia" and other familiar hymns. The boys played well and added"fresh laurels" to their old wreath.
was represented in the person of Mrs. L. J. Webb, dressed in a beautifulwhite robe, from which glittered hundreds of golden stars. She wore a crownor head-dress, upon which was emblazoned the word "Liberty." Overher floated our country's flag, and around her, seated on the platform,were some of Winfield's leading men, representing the Congress of the UnitedStates. The wagon, drawn by four white horses, presented an imposing appearance.
agreeable to a suggestion of ours made a few weeks ago, was representedby about fifty ladies on horse-back. This, without doubt, was the most interestingand attractive part of the procession. The ladies, be it said to their credit,without a single exception, rode well, although several of them had notbeen in a saddle more than once or twice for years. They managed their steedswith an easy grace, entirely surprising to that male portion ofthe lookers on, who, so vainly imagine that they alone can sitand guide a horse correctly.
The States and Territories appeared in the order of their admission intothe Union. The "original thirteen" led off, with New Hampshirerepresented by Mrs. Hickock; Massachusetts, Miss Thompson; Connecticut,Mrs. Bliss; Rhode Island, _____; New York, Mrs. Mansfield; New Jersey, Mrs.Dever; Pennsylvania, Mrs. McClelland; Delaware, Mrs. Hunt; Maryland, ______;Virginia, Mrs. Klingman; North Carolina, ______; South Carolina, Mrs. W.D. Roberts; Georgia, _____; Vermont, Miss Jennie Greenlee; Kentucky, Mrs.Maris; Tennessee, Miss Mary Greenlee; Ohio, Mrs. Bedilion; Louisiana, Mrs.A. J. Thompson; Indiana, ______; Mississippi, Miss Sophia Loubner; Illinois,Mrs. Godard; Alabama, ________; Maine, Mrs. Bates; Missouri, Miss LizzieThompson; Michigan, Miss Clark; Arkansas, Mrs. Ireton; Florida, Miss EllaPierce; Texas, Miss Florence Prater; Iowa, Mrs. G. W. Martin; Wisconsin,Miss Mary Stewart; California, Miss Marks; Minnesota, Miss Mollie Bryant;Oregon, Mrs. Simpson; Kansas, Miss Allie Klingman, West Virginia, Mrs. T.B. Myers; Nevada, Miss Kate Millington; Nebraska, Mrs. Lemmon; Colorado,Miss Etta Johnson; New Mexico (Territory), by Miss Seely; Arizona, MissSue Hunt; Dakota, Mrs. Stansberry; Wyoming, Miss Robertson; Montana, MissSnow; Washington, Miss Norman, Indian Territory, by an Indian Squaw; Utah,by "Brigham Young and family," and Alaska, by Miss Hess.
Among the ladies who represented their respective States or Territoriesby costume suggestive of the wealth, products, or peculiar characteristicsof the people, we find, taking them in the "order of their admission"(we don't want to get into any trouble) that Miss Jennie Greenlee rode ahorse completely enveloped in a green cover, to indicate her preferencefor Vermont.
Mrs. Maris, for Kentucky, wore a blue riding habit, hat trimmed in bluegrass and bound in hemp, and carried a banner with the words, "DanielBoone, Henry Clay, Zach Taylor, Crittenden, and Breckenridge" on oneside and upon the other, the motto, "United we stand, divided we fall."
For Tennessee, Miss Mary Greenlee bore a banner with the "Home ofJackson, Polk, and Johnson" printed in large letters upon it.
Miss Highbarger, for Indiana, had printed in bold letters upon her saddleskirt this suggestive sentence, "Divorces granted in five minutes."
Another beautiful banner was the one carried by Mrs. Goddard, for Illinois,which bore the words, "The home of our martyred President."
The nine months' winter of old Maine was suggested by Mrs. Bates, ridingenveloped in a heavy set of furs.
For Florida, Miss Pierce held aloft a branch with a dozen live, genuineluscious oranges.
Miss Florence Prater, mounted on a wild looking colt without a saddle,carried an ugly looking revolver in one hand and swung a lasso with theother, just as they do down in Texas.
California, the "field of gold," was well characterized inthe rich costume and bright trappings of Miss Marks. Everything about herseemed to glisten with the precious metal.
Our Kansas, by Miss Allie Klingman, could scarce have been better. Hercostume, "lined and bound" with a bristling row of golden wheatheads, readily suggested the wheat growing state of the Union. Hat, habit,and horse were all arrayed in wheat. She did well by Kansas.
Miss Kate Millington rode a fine black horse richly caparisoned withboth gold and silver. Her black riding suit was also trimmed in the samemanner, and the name of her state printed in gold letters on her hat. Itwas not difficult to recognize in this brilliant costume, the leading miningState, Nevada.
Arizona, the silver district, was honored by Miss Sue Hunt's attractivehabit trimmed in that metal alone. It was very pretty.
The Colorado transformation, from a territory to a state, while the processionwas in motion, deserves special mention. Miss Ettie Johnson, a little girl,represented her in her chrysalis state by standing in the midst of "Congress"on the platform. Her pony followed close to the wagon all saddled, readyfor the word. It was given just as the procession moved up Main street,and Miss Ettie was lifted into the saddle and escorted back to the lineto her place in the sisterhood of States. It was certainly a rare pieceof public legislation and the originator of the programme shouldbe presented with a chromo.
The Indian Territory, by Samuel Davis, was a complete success. The angledescribed between his feet was just ninety degrees with a good-sized ponybetween them. That is the way Mrs. "Lo" rides; hence it was thatthere were no bidders for this character among the ladies. Sammie made agood squaw, and was lots of fun.
Utah, the home of "Brigham," was the last in the train. A littlerunt of a mule walked along between the legs of Charlie Floyd, Will Finch,and Allen Bates. The latter two, dressed in female harness, occupied theafter deck of the brute, while Brigham sat in front and steered the craft.It was the most comical representation in the "sisterhood," andwas properly placed in the rear.
The MASONS, ODD FELLOWS, GRANGERS, CITIZENS, etc., without regalia orany particular position, brought up the other end of the lengthy procession.
the order of the day was followed out strictly as per programme.
Music: By the Silver Cornet Band.
Prayer: By the Chaplain, Rev. Croco.
Song: Hail Columbia, led by the Glee Club, assisted by the entire audience.
After which came the reading of the Declaration of Independence by Prof.A. B. Lemmon, followed by vocal and instrumental music.
The oration of the day was then delivered by Rev. Rushbridge. More musicby the Band. Then followed an address, "The History of Cowley County,"by Wirt W. Walton, and some more music by the band.
Dinner was then announced and everybody joined in the exercise withoutregard to race, color, or previous condition of their appetites. It is hardlynecessary to say that this exercise was a success.
came songs by the Glee Club, music by the Band, and volunteer speeches.
To the toasts.
"The Patriots of 1776." Judge Christian, of Arkansas City,entertained the audience for twenty minutes, with a review of the heroesof Valley Forge and Bunker Hill. His speech was well received.
"The Day We Celebrate," was replied to by Mr. F. S. Jenningsin a manner creditable to himself, the toast, and the occasion. It was,in our opinion, the most brilliant short speech of the day. The audienceappreciated it, as was shown by their renewed acclamation.
Judge W. P. Campbell made one of his characteristic speeches in replyto the toasts: "Our Country." A man that would say that our countrywas retrograding in any manner whatever, after hearing the Judge's speech,ought to be banished forever.
To Dr. Headrick we were indebted for the eulogy on Cowley County, inresponse to the toast: "Cowley, the banner county of the State."He convinced his hearers that the toast was
literally correct.
Our county's greatest need--a railroad, was responded to by Col. Manningin a manner as only a person could, whose time, money, and influence hasbeen used to bring about the era we all so much desire.
"Our Early Settlers," by Judge T. B. Ross, was a review ofthe pioneers of Cowley, of which he stands, figuratively, the oldest treein the forest. His speech was long and vocifer-ously applauded.
The regular proceedings of the day being over, the people resolved themselvesinto a committee of the whole, for pleasure, handshaking, and a generalgood time, and came back to town to watch the base ball game and other amusem*nts.
In a few moments a band of outrageously dressed beings issued from theCourthouse, jumped upon wagons, horses, and oxen, and started up Ninth Avenueto the tune of "Yankee Doodle" and "Auld Lang Syne."As they rushed up the avenue, followed by wonderful crowds of people, horsesfrightened, men whooped, and women cried:
have come. The "band" consisted of a fife and drum, a yokeof oxen, three "nigg*rs," and a big horn. The driver beat thedrum, the drummer the oxen, and they all yelled vociferously. A little negroboy, the whites of whose eyes could be seen a half-block, sitting on a drygoods box on the top of another wagon drawn by oxen, had on his back a placardwritten in large letters, "The God of Liberty." The ragged endof this motley crew was composed of masqued horsem*n, Indians, Revolutionarysoldiers, wild border rangers, and hoodlums; all went whooping along together.The procession was headed by a masqued leader dressed in a bed-ticking suit,with an immense paste-board hat. He blew a long dinner horn and kept hishoodlums in good shape. They marched and counter-marched up and down thestreets for an hour, much to the amusem*nt of the thousands of spectators,and then disappeared. The Calithumpians were a complete success.
This ended the day's enjoyment, after which came the
The "fire works" were not a complete success. The committeeon fire works were appointed to make a grand fizzle, not a success.They accordingly made a fizzle. It was not in accordance with the "programme,"nor with the wishes of the hundreds of people who lay around the courthouseand nervously watched the platform where the roaring rocket was expectedto scoot till a late hour that night. We don't see why the fire works didn'tcome. We know they didn't come, however, and the committee alone must bearthe blame.
With the single exception of the "firework" business, the entireprogramme was a complete success, from beginning to end. From the estimatesof careful observers, we find that there must have been nearly threethousand persons in attendance at Winfield's Centennial Celebration.They with one accord, we believe, will say that it was the biggest day thatour County has ever seen.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 12, 1876. Editorial Column.
L. J. WEBB, Past Master of Adelphi Lodge at Winfield, delivered the Anniversaryaddress on St. John the Baptist, at Wellington, on the 24th of June, toa large audience. A few years ago public addresses by Masons was almostunknown, and the workings of the Order rarely alluded to outside the Lodge;but this is an age of progress, and the desire for more light is increasingwonderfully.
Giving portion pertaining to Leland J. Webb only...
Cowley County Democrat, Winfield, Kansas, Thursday, July 13,1876.
On the 20th day of October, 1870, a dispensation was granted to J. S.Hunt, A. H. Green, Enoch Maris, and eight others, for a lodge at Winfield.J. S. Hunt was appointed W. M.; A. H. Green, S. W., and Enoch Maris J. W.On the 17th day of October, 1872, the lodge obtained a charter under thename of Adelphi, No. 110, with the following charter members: J. S. Hunt,A. H. Green, Enoch Maris, C. A. Bliss, A. A. Jackson, W. M. Boyer, H. Shaughness,I. L. Comfort, E. Adams, Thomas Hart, W. S. Huff, S. H. Revis, T. A. Rice,and J. Traxler. The same officers were installed under the charter and heldtheir offices until January 1, 1873, when Enoch Maris was elected W. M.;W. M. Boyer, S. W., and T. A. Rice, J. W. On January 1, 1874, Enoch Mariswas re-elected W. M.; T. A. Rice, S. W.; and W. G. Graham, J. W. On January1, 1875, L. J. Webb was elected W. M.; W. G. Graham, S. W.; and J. E. Saint,J. W. For the present year J. S. Hunt was elected W. M.; J. E. Saint, S.W.; and A. B. Lemmon, J. W. The lodge now has 50 members and is in a healthycondition, morally and financially.
The first newspaper published in the county was the Cowley CountyCensor, the first two numbers of which were printed in Augusta, thetype having been set up here and sent in galleys to that town. A. J. Patrickwas its editor and proprietor. Number "3" was printed at Winfieldon the historical press of Kansas, the first printing press ever withinits territory. August 13, 1870, was the date of the Censor's firstissue. On the 3rd day of June, 1871, L. J. Webb succeeded Patrick as itseditor, and on the 5th day of August, 1871, Webb & Doud (Doud of theCensorial, at Eureka) bought Patrick out and continued the publicationof the paper until the 26th of the month, when E. G. Nichols succeeded Doudand the firm became Webb & Nichols. On January 6, 1872, Webb & Nicholssold to W. H. Kerns and the Censor ceased to exist. On the 13thof January, Kerns issued the first number of the Winfield Messenger;and on the 4th day of July, 1872, Kerns was succeeded in proprietorshipby Yale Bros., who published it until the 5th day of December, 1872, whenthey broke up. The office and material (except the old press) was movedto McPherson County.
The next paper after the Censor was the Traveler, publishedat Arkansas City by M. G. Mains, with H. B. Norton as special contributorand C. M. Scott as local editor. August 24, 1870, was the date of its firstissue. This was the first paper printed wholly in Cowley County. On December15, 1870, L. B. Kellogg succeeded Mains as proprietor, and on September1, 1871, C. M. Scott bought Kellogg's interest, since which time he hasconducted the paper alone.
On the 12th day of September, 1872, Will M. Allison published the firstnumber of the Telegram at Tisdale. Five numbers were publishedat Tisdale; and the sixth, published on the 28th day of November, 1872,was issued at Winfield. In the month of January, 1873, Allison associatedwith A. H. Hane, under the firm name of Allison & Hane; and they publishedthe paper until the 20th day of March, 1873, when Hane was succeeded byA. B. Steinberger (now of the Howard City Courant). Allison &Steinberger dissolved on July 3, 1873, since which time Allison has publishedthe Telegram.
R. S. Waddell & Co. started the Winfield Courier on January11, 1873, with R. S. Waddell as editor and J. C. Lillie, local. On the 27thday of March, 1873, James Kelly purchased the office and assumed the editorialchair. He associated with him V. B. Beckett as local editor until March4, 1875. From March 4th to July 1st, Mr. Kelly conducted the paper alone,at which time Wirt W. Walton became, and has ever since been, its localeditor. On the 11th day of November, last, Col. E. C. Manning became theCourier's editor and publisher.
On November 19, 1874, the Plow and Anvil made its appearancein Winfield, with Col. J. M. Alexander as its editor and proprietor. Onthe 22nd day of April, 1876, Messrs. A. Walton and C. M. McIntire purchasedthe office and continued its publication together, till the 17th day ofMay, the present year, when Walton retired, leaving it in sole charge ofMr. McIntire. On the 24th day of February, 1876, its name was changed fromthe Winfield Plow and Anvil to the Cowley County Democrat;the name it bears to-day.
The Censor was, and the Traveler and Courierare, Republican in politics. The Messenger and Plow and Anvilwere, and the Telegram is, Independent in politics. As its nameimplies, the Democrat is Democratic in politics.
I would be unfaithful to my trust, should I, in noting our history upthe present time, fail to mention our long-legged, hooked-nosed, India-rubber-sidedvisitors of 1874. True, they did not come by invitation, but let it be recorded,that they came, nevertheless; that they came in countless millions and allbrought their relations and their wife's people.
Ah, distinctly we remember,
'Twas on a hot September
Afternoon of eighteen seventy four,
The grasshoppers fell upon us
With their war-paint and harness,
Like the crusading Knights
Of the brave days of yore.
It is useless for us to say here they ate up what the "drouth"left; that in consequence of their visit, many newcomers were thrown upon"half-rations" and the charity of eastern friends; that with difficulty,in many instances, the wolf was kept from the door. These facts are a matterof history--facts we all well know--facts upon which we do not like to dwell.But to-day, as we rejoice over the blessings of a bountiful harvest, itis but mete and proper that we kindly remember those unknown friends beyondour borders, who did not forget us in our hour of need--the grasshopperyear.
It is with feelings of pride, that I look back over the few short yearsof Cowley's history--a history filled, not with the deeds of warriors, reachingback to the revolution or later war of the rebellion--but a history filledwith the industrial workings, the growth and progress of an agriculturalpeople.
And as I look abroad to-day and see her ten thousand citizens, reapingthe annual harvest of her million bushels of golden grain; see her churchesand schoolhouses in every valley; her rich, broad prairies dotted all overwith happy homes--a vision only surpassed in wealth and beauty by the diversityof scenery spread out upon every side--I cannot help but exclaim: BeholdCowley county--
Beautiful land of fragrant blooms,
Emerald carpet and rich perfumes,
Land of the brave, leal, the true,
Whose skies are softer and deeper blue,
Than the mellowed light of a moonlight pale,
'Neath the starry gleaming of midnight's veil.
Land of the prairies, the wide, the free,
That sleeps to the hum of the droning bee,
Where the day-god raises his jeweled crest,
Or sinks in dreams on the twilight's breast,
With a sweeter grace, and a kindlier power
And a dainty guilding of tree and flower.
Land where the live oak rears its head
With a kingly bearing, to list the tread--
The steady tramp of the myriad feet,
That seeks its shade, with hoofs as fleet,
As the wild gazelle where the lightning's play.
Land where the seasons gently flee
To the measured march of eternity.
Soft as the babe, that sinks to rest
Now cradled and lulled on its mother's breast;
Where ambered grain, steals the winter's kiss,
And spring-time warms it to newer bliss.
Winfield Courier, July 13, 1876.
Suit has been brought against Winfield city for false imprisonment. Webb& Torrance, attorneys for plaintiff. It will be an interesting case.
Winfield Courier, July 27, 1876.
TELL WALTON was over from Sumner yesterday. He reports politics as warmingup. He thinks the Sumner County delegation will be divided between Campbelland Webb for the Judgeship. Sumner claims to have the votes that will elect.
Winfield Courier, August 10, 1876. Editorial Page.
Recap: Involved Winfield Township: Republican local hierarchy versuslocal Democrats and Independents (self-styled Reformers).
At meeting in Courthouse 45 "Reformers" tried to control theorganization of meeting called to obtain candidate for State Senator nominationfrom 88th representative district.
"Suddenly A. H. Green, a 'leading Reformer,' took the floor andcalled the meeting to order and nominated as chairman one of his followers.. . . James Kelly, chairman of the Republican Township Committee, calledthe meeting to order and L. J. Webb nominated Capt. J. S. Hunt as chairman.A rising vote was called for, resulting in 39 for, 12 against Hunt, a fewnot voting. J. P. Short was chosen secretary. . . . The balloting commencedand a large number of names had been registered, all of which voted forwhat were known as the Manning delegates, whereupon 'the Reformers' discoveredthat they were in the wrong convention. . . . Subsequently, and after nearly100 ballots had been cast, and many voters had retired from the hall, W.P. Hackney and two or three others returned to the meeting and complainedthat the call for the meeting was irregular and he thereupon gave noticethat on next Tuesday Aug. 8th at 4 o'clock p.m., the Republicans would holdanother meeting. He and Tansy denounced the resolutions [made voters pledgethemselves to support Hayes & Wheeler] as a gag and the meeting untimely,etc. Aligned against them: Prof. A. B. Lemmon, E. S. Torrance, L. J. Webb,Samuel Burger, and S. W. Greer.
The Cowley County Telegram dated August 4, issued on Mondaymorning, August 8, had the following article.
Within the past few days Cowley County has been the scene of more ofthat contemptible trickery and political intrigue and corrupt practiceswhich has made the leaders of the Republican party, in the county, so odiousin the sight of an honest people. And especially was Winfield the groundon which one of the dirtiest of these jobs was put up. Knowing that if themasses of the party were present at the primary convention, called for thepurpose of electing 10 delegates to the county and district conventions,to be held on the 12th of the present month, the delegates selected by them,and who would, without question, vote for their men, no matter how odiousthey were, or what their records were, would stand no show for election.So they hit upon a plan whereby their friends would be sure to be presentwhile the opposition would be busily at work on their farms and in theirshops.
The day set by the county central committee was the 8th--the call soread--the Repub-lican organ so stated in an editorial, and urged that uponthat day every voter should turn out. Right in the face of this they quietlysend out their strikers to tell the "faithful" that they mustcome in four days earlier, as the convention would be held then and theirpresence was needed. On the morning of the earlier day determined upon,a few posters were posted up in out-of-the-way places calling a primaryfor that afternoon. So far their little plan worked well, but when the Republicanswho were opposed to this way of transacting business saw this, they wentto work and gathered together a force sufficient to scoop them, which theywould undoubtedly have done, had not one of the ring-leaders of the corruptgang rushed through a resolution requiring that each man who voted shouldsubscribe a pledge to support the nominees on the National, State, and countyticket. The "gag" a hundred or more Republicans refused to swallow,and they had it all their own way, electing their ticket by a majority equalto the number of their friends present. The whole proceedings were corrupt,illegal, and scandalous, and engineered by a set of political trickstersof whom the people of the whole county entertain feelings of the greatestdisgust. It is only a continuation of the corrupt practices they have beenfoisting upon the people as Republicanism for years past--and such a jobas will cause the honest voters of the county to repudiate their entireoutfit at the polls next November.
The men who managed the affair are respectively candidates for StateSenator, County Superintendent, Probate Judge, Representative, DistrictJudge, and County Attorney. Let the voters spot them. . . .
On Tuesday, August 8, before 4 o'clock, Cliff Wood, A. H. Green, T. K.Johnston, John D. Pryor, N. M. Powers, Joe Mack, and 5 or 6 others who donot desire to have their names published, because they do not approve ofthe action taken, slipped over to the courthouse one at a time by differentroutes and pretended to hold a meeting. . . . A few minutes before 4 p.m.,Mr. Manning went to the courthouse to have the bell rung and upon enteringthe courthouse found that C. M. Wood was occupying a chair at the tableas chairman and John D. Pryor occupying another chair in the capacity ofsecretary. Mr. Manning took the floor and inquired if the meeting was organized,and to what style of proceedings it had arrived whereupon a "reformer"at once moved an adjournment, which was at once put and carried, and tenof the purifiers of Cowley County politics fled the room in such haste asto leave three or four others who had not fully comprehended the trick,sitting in wonder at the unseemly haste of those present, and expectingto have a chance to vote for delegates.
As soon as Mr. Manning entered the room a bystander rang the bell, whereuponnearly one hundred voters poured over to the courthouse. A meeting was organizedby electing S. D. Klingman as chairman and B. F. Baldwin secretary. Theaction of the "reformers" was related to the meeting. A committeeon resolutions was appointed, which soon reported the following, which wasadopted by sections, with but one dissenting voice to the first resolution.
They passed more resolutions, which endorsed the previous action taken.
Manning and his group won again!
[COUNTY CONVENTION.]
Winfield Courier, August 17, 1876. Editorial Page.
The Republican county convention convened at the Courthouse, in Winfield,on Saturday, August 12th, at 1 o'clock p.m., and was called to order byA. B. Lemmon, chairman of the Republican county central committee. R. C.Story was elected temporary chairman and James Kelly secretary. A committeeon credentials was appointed, consisting of Messrs. E. S. Torrance, J. W.Tull, A. B. Odell, T. R. Bryan, and S. M. Jarvis. The committee reportedthe following persons as having been duly elected as delegates and alternatesto the convention.
Silver Creek Township: Delegates, S. M. Jarvis and Z. W. Hoge. Alternates,H. Smith and A. P. Brooks.
Spring Creek: Delegates, F. M. Nance and R. P. Goodrich.
Pleasant Valley: Delegates, S. H. Sparks and C. J. Brane.
Nennescah: Delegates, A. B. Odell and Wm. Bartlow.
Beaver: Delegates, T. W. Morris and L. Bonnewell.
Dexter: Delegates, J. D. Maurer, T. R. Bryan, Jno. Wallace, and G. P.Wagner. Alternates, W. W. Underwood, J. H. Service, T. A. Creager, and O.P. Darst.
Maple: Delegates, H. H. Seiberd and W. B. Norman.
Otter: Delegates, J. J. Smith and B. Hockett.
Harvey: Delegate, R. C. Story.
Tisdale: Delegates, S. S. Moore and A. B. Scott.
Vernon: Delegates, J. S. Wooly, J. Millspaugh, and F. W. Schwantes.
Sheridan: Delegates, Barney Shriver and E. Shriver. Alternates, J. W.Hamilton and R. R. Longshore.
Rock: Delegates, Frank Akers, A. V. Polk, Hiram Fisk, and C. H. Eagin.Alternates, J. C. McGowan, E. G. Willitt, L. J. Foster, and R. P. Akers.
Richland: Delegates, Alex Kelly, M. C. Headrick, Danl. Maher, and J.H. Phelps. Alternates, J. O. Vanorsdal, F. W. Bowen, N. G. Larkin, and S.D. Groom.
Bolton: Delegates, W. E. Chenoweth, Frank Lorry, and Will Thompson. Alternates,H. B. Pruden and Strong Pepper.
Windsor: Delegates, C. W. Jones, D. Elliott, and J. W. Tull.
Creswell: Delegates, I. H. Bonsall, Nathan Hughes, Geo. McIntire, O.P. Houghton, H. D. Kellogg, and Wm. M. Sleeth. Alternates, A. A. Newman,R. A. Houghton, T. C. Bird, W. H. Speers, Elisha Parker, and W. S. Hunt.
Winfield: Delegates, R. L. Walker, A. B. Lemmon, Nels. Newell, T. B.Myers, C. C. Pierce, M. G. Troup, E. P. Kinne, Jno. Mentch, James Kelly,and E. S. Torrance. Alternates, W. M. Boyer, T. L. King, Jno. Weakly, S.D. Klingman, S. Johnson, H. L. Barker, G. W. Robertson, J. E. Saint, JohnC. Roberts, and A. Howland. E. S. TORRANCE, Chairman.
A. B. ODELL, Secretary.
On motion the report of the committee was adopted.
Subsequently the following delegates presented credentials and, on motion,were admitted to seats in the convention: E. C. Clay from Liberty, L. Lippmannand Ben. French from Silverdale, and D. W. Willy from Cedar Township.
On motion B. H. Clover was allowed a seat in place of delegate Jones,who was absent.
On motion the officers of the temporary organization were made permanentofficers of the convention.
On motion the convention proceeded to nominate, by ballot, a candidatefor State Senator. The result of the ballot was as follows: E. C. Manningreceiving 42 votes; C. R. Mitchell 5 votes; I. Moore 1 vote. E. C. Manninghaving received a majority of all the votes cast was declared duly nominated.
On motion the following named persons were selected, by acclamation,as delegates to the 3rd District Congressional convention: L. J. Webb, R.L. Walker, J. B. Evans, M. G. Troup, and E. C. Manning; and the followingnamed as alternates: L. Lippmann, J. W. Millspaugh, S. S. Moore, T. W. Moore,and A. B. Lemmon.
On motion the following named persons were elected as delegates to the13th Judicial convention: W. B. Norman, T. R. Bryan, E. Shriver, S. M. Jarvis,Dan Maher, E. S. Torrance, and D. Elliott. Alternates: S. H. Aley, C. R.Mitchell, T. A. Wilkinson, S. S. Moore, L. Lippmann, A. V. Polk, and A.B. Lemmon.
On a rising vote the following resolution was unanimously adopted bythe convention:
WHEREAS, For the first time in the history of Cowley County,the Republicans thereof are called upon to nominate a candidate for theoffice of State Senator to fill said office for the next four years fromsaid county in the Senate of Kansas, and
WHEREAS, during the term of four years next ensuing, for whichthe said Senator from Cowley will be elected, there will occur the electionof two United States Senators by the legislature of the State of Kansas,and
WHEREAS, the honor of our State, and particularly of the Republicanparty thereof, has heretofore been sadly tarnished by the open, notorious,and unscrupulous use and receipt of money in aid of the election of UnitedStates Senators by the legislature of the State of Kansas; therefore beit
Resolved, by the Republican party of Cowley County that everyconsideration of public policy and political integrity imperatively demandsthat our representatives in each house of the State legislature, at thetime of such approaching United States Senatorial elections, should be menagainst whom character for personal probity and political integrity noteven the breath of suspicion has ever blown. And, be it further
Resolved, that as the Republican party of Cowley County numbers,within its membership, hundreds of men whose characters are as spotless,both personally and politically, as the new fallen snow, and whose abilitiesare fully adequate to the honorable and efficient discharge of the dutiesof State Senator, we will therefore, in the coming contest for that importantand honorable position, support no candidate therefor whose past and presentpolitical as well as personal history will not bear the closest scrutinyand most unsparing criticism when viewed in the light of the foregoing resolution.
On motion the convention adjourned sine die. R. C. STORY, Chairman.
JAS. KELLY, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, August 17, 1876.
Considerable sickness prevails in this vicinity among the children. Withinthe last few days we have heard of several, among the number are the littleones of O. N. Morris, J. W. Curns, F. M. Freeland, and L. J. Webb.
Lowell H. Webb, another brother of Leland J. Webb...
Winfield Courier, August 31, 1876.
LOWELL H. WEBB, a cadet midshipman of the U. S. Naval Academy, at Annapolis,Maryland, is visiting his brother, L. J. Webb, of this city. Mr. Webb wasadmitted into that honored school in the fall of 1874, from the 2nd CongressionalDistrict. He has a walk and mien suggestive of the strict military disciplinegoverning that institution.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 6, 1876.
CANDIDATES. L. J. Webb will probably be the nominee, on the Republicanticket, for Representative from the northern district of Cowley County;J. M. Allen for County Attorney; R. C. Story for Superintendent of PublicInstruction--that is, if "straws show the way the wind blows."The friends of Capt. McDermott insist on him coming out in place of Allen,but the Captain is slow to aspire for any honor. On the Democratic ticket,Amos Walton is fishing for Representative again, from this district, andthe friends of Judge Christian want him to come forward as County Attorney,and Judge Gans for Probate Judge.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1876.
Linus S. Webb has a "corner" on a case in the Wichita Eagleoffice.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1876.
The City Hotel has a new register and blotter. The blotter contains theadvertising cards of Messrs. Webb & Torrance, Wm. and Geo. Hudson, M.L. Read, J. D. Pryor, John Nichols, W. G. Graham, J. M. Reed, A. G. Wilson,B. F. Baldwin, Joe Likowski, Henry Jochems, J. B. Lynn, W. B. Gibbs, McGuire& Midkiff, and Hill & Christie. It the neatest register in the valley.Mr. Hudson is starting off on the right foot this time.
Winfield Courier, September 14, 1876.
H. T. FORD, who has been in the mercantile business here for two years,was arrested last Saturday and lodged in jail on the charge of disposingof his property with intent to defraud his creditors. A. G. Wilson, an endorserof one of his notes, made the affidavit and Ford was committed. Monday morningWebb & Torrance applied to Judge Gans for a writ of habeas corpus,which was not granted. Mr. Torrance is now in Chautauqua County before hishonor, Judge Campbell, on the same business. Hackney & McDonald areattorneys for the creditors.
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876. Editorial Page.
It is with no small degree of pleasure that we place the name of Mr.Webb on our ticket as the nominee of the Republicans of the 88th district,for the honorable position of Representative. He was nominated by last Saturday'sconvention by acclamation, without a single dissenting voice. This was atribute to his worth and ability that his friends will ever appreciate.We have known him for six years. As a lawyer he stands at the head of thebar in Southern Kansas. For the last nine years he has practiced in allthe courts of the State with unmeasured success. As editor of one of thepioneer newspapers of Cowley, he did noble service in helping to build upthe county to its present proud position. No public enterprise has beeninaugurated in this valley without receiving aid at his hands. He is young,enthusiastic, and energetic, and, if elected, will make a leader in theKansas House of Representatives of 1877. The people of the 88th districtknow Leland J. Webb. They believe in him, they have faith in him, and theywill elect him by a rousing majority in November.
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876. Editorial Page.
In a very able article in last week's Walnut Valley Times, headed"Something Must Be Done," among other good things, Bent Murdocksays:
"If our delegation in Congress could be made to see the importanceof the opening up of a national highway through the Indian Territory fromthe mouth of the Walnut River, this would make our valley an objective pointfor new lines of road."
Col. Manning and Mr. Webb have both pledged themselves to vote for noman to the U. S. Senate who will not use his best efforts to secure sucha desired communication with the Gulf and South Pacific railroad.
Winfield Courier, September 21, 1876.
Nennescah went solid for Webb. That old wheeler, Wm. Bartlow, and A.H. Beck did the voting.
[FROM THE COURIER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 27, 1876.
B. F. Baldwin, S. S. Moore, R. C. Story, A. H. Siverd and Daniel Maherwere appointed members of the Republican Central Committee, for the 88thRepresentative district.
The members of Adelphi Lodge No. 110, A. F. & A. M., are hereby notifiedthat P. G. M. Harmon G. Reynolds will address the fraternity at our hallin Winfield, Thursday evening, Oct. 15, 1876, at 7 o'clock p.m. All Masonsin good standing are invited to attend, and bring with them their wives,mothers, sisters, and daughters. After the address a Chapter of the EasternStar will be organized by Bro. Reynolds, if desired. By order of the Lodge.J. S. HUNT, W. M.
L. J. WEBB, Sec'y.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 27, 1876.
Mutual Friend Scott:
Mr. Gilstrap in his answer to a communication from me to the TRAVELER,makes some assertions and some insinuations that I feel inclined to replyto. I do not care for his twaddle if he would not misrepresent me. He makesa very nice distinction about what he said at the convention and what Imake him say. The difference is certainly astounding to the many readersof the TRAVELER, that he said "she" [Silverdale, I cannot accountfor the gender,] "was not represented nor did she wish to be, and shewanted nothing to do with it," and audaciously made him say, "shewould not have anything to do with it."
If anyone can find any material difference in the two assertions, theyare in possession of a happy faculty for judging small matters. It seemsto me, even in my blind adherence, that if Silverdale did not want to haveanything to do with that convention, no power could make her, and as H.L. C. Gilstrap is not Silverdale Township, and the only one that I knowof who asserted she wanted no hand in the matter, I presume to say he couldnot speak for a number of other citizens of this township who did; consequently,I am forced to think that Friend Gilstrap attached too much importance tothe reputation and influence of one H. L. C. Gilstrap. So much for thispart of the communication.
Now, Friend Gilstrap, a word to you in regard to the imputation you striveto cast, about my booming around for this felon, E. C. Manning. You say"do it fairly." I defy you or any other narrow, prejudiced, andharping person to show otherwise, and I would advise you before impugningmy motives, to scrutinize yours and see if you are not looking into a mirrorthat casts back your own shadow.
As for the ring-master thrust, I am sorry your influence is of so littleimportance that you cannot supplant him, but it can be helped.
Do you remember my answer when L. J. Webb was a candidate and you stroveto have me vote according to the dictates of your prejudice, by tellingme at the polls that if I voted for him, you never would support me forsheriff? Do you remember that? Well, I am just as independent now as I wasthen, and if at the proper time I make up my mind to run for sheriff, Iwill have to be fully satisfied that my course and actions are condemnedby better friends and truer republicans than you are, before I will be drivenoff the track. L. LIPPMANN.
P. S. Since writing the above, I have been informed that I was secretaryof the meeting that elected me as a delegate and failed to write my credentialsuntil I reached Winfield, and wrote them in C. A. Bliss' store and thatC. A. Bliss was a witness to the shameful sight. And now that I am pushedso close, I feel an open confession would be a relief, so I will acknowledgethat at the primary held in our township on the 9th of this month for thepurpose of electing delegates to the county convention and to the representativeconvention, the occasion upon which you promised to see that "thatfellow Lippmann would not have the opportunity to misrepresent SilverdaleTownship again, "having assured those gentlemen who did not wish tosee me a delegate, that you would be there and all would be right. The resultI hope you have not forgotten, but as secretary to that meeting, I was compelledto write out credentials in favor of my master's servant and did not doit until the day of the convention, in Ed. Bedilion's office; and stillI rear my head in effrontery and do not feel ashamed of my act, but I aminclined to think that there is ample ground that somebody should feel ashamed.
In conclusion, friend Gilstrap, let me say this to you in that spiritof kindness that ever characterizes my actions, don't cast too many insinuations,don't slur those that cannot in their ignorance see wisely like you, andof all things don't make so many statements that will have to be verifiedat a future time; and in all probability, there will be no cause for youand I to see who can say the meanest things. Boomingly, L. LIPPMANN.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
We see that the Republican convention of the 89th district, held lastSaturday at Dexter, put in nomination for the office of Representative,C. R. Mitchell of Arkansas City. This is as it should be. The Republicansof that district following the example of this, have done themselves honorin their selection.
"Bob" Mitchell is one of the squarest men in this part of theState. He is a good lawyer and a worthy citizen. He is one of the oldestsettlers, and is consequently familiar with the wants and necessities ofthe banner county. He has never been honored with an office, yet he hasdone good service for the party in the past and is capable of doing a greatdeal in the future. Arkansas City need have no further fear of any man orset of men getting away with her interests as long as she has C. R. Mitchellin the legislature. He will be elected with a rousing majority and willanswer roll call next January at the capital, along with Cowley's otherservants, L. J. Webb and E. C. Manning. Hurrah for the trio!
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
Pursuant to a call of the committee of the 88th Representative District,the delegates to the representative convention met in the courthouse atWinfield on Saturday, September 16th, at 10 o'clock a.m. Capt. J. S. Hunt,of Winfield Township, was elected temporary chairman, and Chas. H. Eagin,of Rock Township, temporary secretary.
On motion a committee of five on credentials was appointed: C. H. Eagin,G. L. Walker, S. S. Moore, H. H. Siverd, and F. M. Small were the members.
The committee on credentials reported the following delegates entitledto seats in the convention.
Winfield Township: N. C. McCulloch, J. H. Hill, Chas. Love, J. M. Bair,G. W. Arnold, E. G. Sheridan, J. S. Hunt, W. D. Roberts, G. S. Manser, W.G. Graham.
Maple Township: W. B. Norman, Capt. H. H. Siverd.
Richland Township: Sam Phoenix, J. O. Vanorsdol, Amos Jarvis, W. F. Brown.
Sheridan Township: L. W. Graham, F. M. Small.
Vernon Township: T. B. Ware, B. N. Hopkins, Geo. L. Walker.
Nennescah Township: Wm. Bartlow, A. H. Beck.
Silver Creek Township: John M. Clover, Wm. May.
Tisdale Township: J. F. Thomas, S. S. Moore.
Harvey Township: A. D. Smith.
Rock Creek Township: Reuben Booth, C. H. Eagin, Wm. White, J. M. Barrack.
On motion the report of the committee was adopted.
A motion to allow W. P. Hackney to vote as proxy for G. W. Arnold, principal,and E. P. Hickok, alternate, and to allow T. K. Johnston to vote as proxyfor J. H. Hill, principal, and W. E. Christie, alternate, was lost.
On motion the temporary organization was made the permanent organization.
Nominations being next in order, the name of Leland J. Webb was placedbefore the convention, and he was nominated by acclamation.
The convention then adjourned sine die. J. S. HUNT, Chairman.
CHAS. H. EAGIN, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
There will be a meeting of the Republican Central Committee of the 88thRepresentative District, at the COURIER office in Winfield on Saturday,September 30th, 1876, at ten o'clock a.m. for the purpose of organizingand transacting such other business as may come before the committee. Thefollowing gentlemen constitute the committee: B. F. Baldwin; Daniel Maher;R. C. Story; H. H. Siverd; S. S. Moore.
Winfield Courier, September 28, 1876.
The members of Adelphi Lodge No. 110, A. F. & A. M., are hereby notifiedthat P. G. M. Harmon G. Reynolds will address the fraternity at our hallin Winfield, Thursday Evening, Oct. 12, 1876, at 7 o'clock p.m. All Masonsin good standing are invited to attend, and bring with them their wives,mothers, sisters, and daughters. After the address a Chapter of the EasternStar will be organized by Bro. Reynolds, if desired. By order of the Lodge.
L. J. WEBB, Secretary.
Winfield Courier, October 5, 1876.
The following attorneys are in attendance at the present term of court:M. S. Adams, of Wichita; L. B. Kellogg, of Emporia; C. R. Mitchell, A. Walton,and James Christian, of Arkansas City; James McDermott, Dexter; Webb &Torrance, Hackney & McDonald, Pyburn & Seward, D. A. Millington,J. M. Alexander, Jennings & Buckman, A. H. Green,
Pryor, Kager & Pryor, A. B. Lemmon, and John E. Allen, of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, October 19, 1876.
C. H. EAGIN, of Rock, writes to us that at their township caucus heldat Darien schoolhouse last Thursday night, W. Wisner was nominated by theRepublicans for trustee, George Williams, clerk; J. M. Harcourt, treasurer;J. M. Barrack, justice of the peace; Andrew Dawson and N. Rodgers, constables;C. Coon, overseer 1st district, Wm. Funk 2nd; and J. Parsons 3rd. Afterthe nominations had been made, Hon. L. J. Webb was introduced, and for anhour and a quarter held the audience by his magnetic eloquence and masterlyargument. His speech was complete, thorough, and convincing, and the bestthat has been heard in Rock during the campaign.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, October 26, 1876. Front Page.
Capt. Ryan filled his regular appointment here yesterday, speaking toa large crowd of the Cowley County yeomanry, at the courthouse, in the afternoon.Mr. Ryan never disappoints the people, either in the time of his appointmentsor the character of his speeches.
His visit to the localities in the district distant from the railroad,has made him many friends, even among the Democrats, and you may expectto be surprised at the extent of the majority he will receive in these counties.The people here like to be noticed, and to have some attention shown them,even though they are not possessed of a railroad. They belong to the district"just the same," and their votes will average twelve to the dozenall the way through.
Winfield is one of the best towns we have encountered on our route. Thepopulation is estimated at one thousand, and I think the estimate is small.Yesterday (Saturday) was a very busy day and the scores of teams on Mainstreet, the gaily blanketed Indians, and the festive auctioneer on the corner,reminded me very much of our own Kansas avenue. The beauty of Winfield asa residence point cannot be excelled anywhere in the west, uniting, as itdoes, a fine elevation, a pure, bracing air, magnificent views, mountainwilderness, romantic streams, beautiful drives, and in short, all the charmsof land and water combined. Wirt Walton is one of the institutions of Winfield.An impression is abroad in the land that Wirt is handsome. I think he musthave acquired that reputation last winter in Topeka, while I was absentfrom the city. This is also the home of Prof. A. B. Lemmon, the Republicannominee for State Superintendent. In making the canvass of this county,we have been under many obligations to Mr. Lemmon for valuable assistance--forLemmon aid, so to speak. I am going to take Lemmon in mine on the 7th ofNovember. The indications are that Col. Manning will be successful in therace for State Senator. Webb will go to the House from this county, andthe entire Republican ticket be triumphantly elected.
One of the grandest demonstrations of the year occurred here last night,in honor of the visit of Capt. Ryan and Col. Plumb, of Emporia. The courthousewas packed with ladies and gentlemen, and the enthusiasm was unbounded.An hour before the meeting the Hayes and Wheeler club paraded the principalstreets of the city with torches and flags, headed by the Winfield brassband. About fifty blazing torches turned night into day, and lit up thehandsome Continental uniforms of the men in fine style. All the anvils inthe city were converted into cannon and kept up a ceaseless fire for hours.After a song by the glee club, Col. Plumb was introduced as the people'schoice for United States Senator, the announcement being received with mildapplause, ranging from piping treble to alligator bass. After quiet hadbeen restored, and the brazen instruments became silent as a synod of stars,Col. Plumb proceeded to make an address, which for thoughtfulness, sincerity,logic, and pertinence of illustration, would do Bob Ingersoll no discredit.He spoke for two hours, and would have been listened to patiently for twomore.
Col. Plumb is doing good work for the party and lots of it. He came downto Wichita on Thursday night at 9 o'clock, drove ten miles in the countrythat night on business, returned to Wichita the same night, arose earlyin the morning and rode out several miles to see a friend, returning toWichita again at noon; in the afternoon he made a trip to Wellington, thirtymiles, speaking there Friday night. Saturday morning he journeyed from Wellingtonto Winfield, twenty miles, stopped here for dinner, then secured a freshteam and went to Arkansas City, fifteen miles, returning here last eveningand speaking until 10 o'clock, starting immediately after the meeting forWichita, in order to take the 4 o'clock train for Emporia, where he expectedto start without delay for a point in the interior of Osage County, speakingthere on Monday afternoon, returning to Emporia Sunday night, and startingimmediately on horseback for Eldorado, seventy miles distant, to fill anappointment on Tuesday. This is what I call campaigning in earnest.
Capt. Ryan's route ahead is to Cedar Vale on Monday and Sedan on Tuesday;then through Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, and Butler counties. We are muchrejoiced over the result of Ohio, but we are still without tidings fromIndiana.
Article written by Wirt W. Walton, acting editor of Courier,who had it in for Scott as did Manning. C. M. Scott was a "thorn"who really rankled Walton & Manning.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
What a fitting rebuke the people of the 88th Representative districtgave to Scott last Tuesday in the overwhelming majority polled for LelandJ. Webb. This is the same Webb whose nomination for county attorney theTraveler bolted two years ago, through purely mercenary motivesand no other. His reason for opposing Webb was, that "he was afraidhe couldn't trust him." The man whom he did support didn't give himthe "County Printing" after all.
Webb family explained...
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876. Editorial Page.
That's his majority in the loyal old 88th district, and his name is LelandJ. Webb. He is our Representative, your Representative, and the Representativeof every township in the district. He carried every township by a good roundmajority, not excepting his opponent's. We are proud of him, of course weare. He comes from a good stock. His father is a legislator, his three unclesare legislators, and he is going to be.
They are all lawyers. W. C. (his father) served three years in the Wisconsinlegislature, two years in the Kansas legislature, two terms on the Judicialbench, and is now Supreme Court Reporter of our State. H. G. (his uncle)served four years in the Wisconsin Senate, two terms on the bench in thisState, and was a leader in our last winter's "brainy legislature."J. H. (another uncle) served Pennsylvania in the legislature for six years,and was speaker of the House one term. C. M. (still another uncle) was aState Senator in Wisconsin two years and is now U. S. District Attorneyfor that commonwealth. When Leland completes his term for which he has justbeen chosen, the Webb family will have served nineteen years in legislativebodies during the past twenty. Is not this something remarkable? If L. J.does not come up to the standard set by his ancestry, we miss our guess.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
Webb's majority, 379.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
The following are Webb's majorities in the various townships in thisdistrict: Winfield, 114; Vernon, 66; Groom's, 31; Rock, 28; Harvey, 25;Nennescah, 31; Silver Creek, 20; Omnia, 18; Sheridan, 16; Floral, 15; Maple,14; Tisdale, 9. Total: 379.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
HURRAH for Vernon! Brave, glorious old Vernon rolled up seventy majorityfor the straight Republican ticket. She gave Webb 69 majority in his opponent'sown township. She gave Manning 69 and Hayes and Wheeler 69. The entire Republicanticket was elected--in Vernon. What a host of "vagabonds" theremust be in Vernon.
Winfield Courier, November 9, 1876.
The Democratic jollification last night, over the election of oneman out of the thirty-one on the ticket, was a huge affair. Atan early hour sundry dry goods boxes, barrels, etc., were fired at the crossingof Main and 9th, the band was brought out, and the unterrified proceededto get together. They met to rejoice over the election of Mr. Pyburn forfear that they wouldn't have anything else to rejoice over. Mr. Pyburn wascalled out and in a few words thanked the Democrats for his election, whichcooled the ardor of the bushwhacking Republicans, who were hanging on theoutskirts expecting to get a comforting crumb.
Mr. McDonald followed him, of course, and put on the finishing touches.By insinuating remarks he cast reproach upon the name of the defeated candidatefor State Senator.
This was more than his hearers could stand, and the only applause hereceived at its close was loud and repeated cries for "Manning!""Manning!!" Mr. Manning climbed halfway up the stairway that ledto the speakers stand and stopped, remarking that it was a time for "theRepublican flag of Cowley County to stand at half mast." From thisstand he gave the "bushwhacking" enemy in his own party such araking as they will remember for years. He had no feeling against the honestDemocrats, who voted their honest sentiments, but against the men who hadbeen nursed and petted by the Republican party until they thought they ownedthe entire thing.
Mr. Hackney, late of California, was then called out and tried to explainwhy he was furnished with a "sleeping car" to ride free from Topekato Galveston last winter, while his constituents were holding mass conventionsat home to persuade the same road to build them a line down this valley.He then spoke a few kind words to "my friends," the Democratsand Republicans, whereupon a full fledged "Dymocrat," about half"set up," yelled out, "Which side yer on?" This broughtour friend Hackney down, and after more music the next Democratic (?) oratortook the stand.
L. J. Webb, who had carried his district by a Republican majority ofnearly four hundred, gave the jollifiers a few words that convinced themthey had missed their man again.
Dick Walker, the Republican wheel-horse of this county, next stood upand put on the "cap sheaf." He spoke of Arkansas City's goingback on him, bolting Webb's nomination, Kinne's nomination, and every othernomination the Republicans had ever made that wasn't dictated by them, andthat loyal old Vernon, "the only loyal State in the Union," wouldremember them for all time to come.
Dick was followed by Capt. McDermott, Prof. Lemmon, and Mr. Kelly. Theyall made Republican speeches, which the poor Democrats were compelled toswallow. Prof. Lemmon said that he thought the meeting was called to attenda Republican funeral. That thirty out of thirty-one corpses were Democrats,and the anthem singers were nearly all Republicans.
The crowd was good humored and everything passed off harmoniously. Thefunniest thing is to find where the Democratic jollification came in. Themeeting was captured by Republicans, and seven speakers out of ten were"true blue Republicans."
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1876.
One of the grandest ovations ever tendered any man in Southwestern Kansaswas upon Wednesday night of this week, given the Hon. A. J. Pyburn. Hundredsof citizens proceeded en masse to the office of Mr. Pyburn on thecorner of Main Street and Ninth Avenue, and headed by the silver cornetband, serenaded Mr. Pyburn. Bonfires were kindled and the city was wildwith enthusiasm over the result of the Senatorial contest.
When Mr. Pyburn appeared upon the balcony in acknowledgment of the serenadingparty, he was greeted with prolonged cheers, and it was many minutes beforethe crowd could be quieted so as to hear him. He made a few remarks acknowledgingthe "honor conferred upon him," and thanking the citizens fortheir support in the contest, and "promising a faithful representationof the interests of the County." After him Judge McDonald was calledfor and made a neat little speech which was received with wild enthusiasm,especially when mention was made of the favorite candidate for Senator.
Seeing the enthusiasm which prevailed and being so completely filledwith bitterness that he could not hold himself, Manning sneaked across thestreet; and having had it arranged before hand with "backers"to call him, he passed half way up the stairs and there stopped, exclaimingthat "he thought it was about time the Republican flag was run up athalf-mast" and gave vent to his feelings in a bitter denunciation ofhis political opponents, denouncing those Republicans who voted againsthim as "Renegades," and declaring that if it had not been forthat "sink hole of Infamy, Arkansas City" that he would have receiveda majority of the votes cast," which was utterly false, for with everyRepublican vote cast in Creswell Township, there would still have been aclear majority against him.
After considerable more blubbering of the same sort in which he showedhis deep chagrin at his defeat, he attacked Hon. W. P. Hackney, and thenhe subsided; and the crowd called on Mr. Hackney, who in a few minutes speechcompletely upset everything that Manning had said, and again filled thecrowd with enthusiasm for Pyburn and reform.
Manning and his friends, still wishing to turn the meeting into his favor,called for several of his backers--Walker, Kelly, Webb, and McDermott--whoin turn pronounced a requiem over the corpse of Manning, which brought tearsto the eyes of their hearers--tears of joy that the County had been savedthe disgrace of electing such a man as Manning to the State Senate.
Taking all in all there was on that evening a greater display of wildenthusiasm than we have ever before witnessed in the State, and a greaterdisplay of petty spite, malice, and chagrin by the friends of Manning, thanwe have ever dared think they could be guilty of. A display of good feelingon one side and a display of despair and hopelessness on the other, whichprompted them to make complete asses of themselves, thereby losing the respectof the honorable minded citizens who were present at the demonstration.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 15, 1876.
On the outside of this issue will be found the letters of Messrs. Topliffand J. B. Hamilton, in refutation of the charges made against Mr. Scottby the Courier. It is a complete vindication, and bears so decidedlythe impress of truth that the ignomy and disgrace thus sought to be broughtupon Mr. Scott reverts to the parties who for the purpose of attractingthe voters attention to themselves would bring into disgrace an honest man.
Cowley County Telegram.
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, December 6, 1876.
W. C. WEBB, father of the Representative of this county, is a candidatefor Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives, and is among the best wehave heard mentioned.
Winfield Courier, December 14, 1876.
HON. L. J. WEBB left Tuesday morning for a visit to his "wife'speople" in Pennsyl-vania. He will return in time for the opening ceremoniesof the "Kansas Menagerie."
[DISSOLUTION NOTICE: WEBB & TORRANCE.]
Winfield Courier, December 21, 1876.
NOTICE is hereby given that the partnership relation heretofore existingbetween L. J. Webb and E. S. Torrance, in the practice of the law, underthe name of Webb & Torrance, has this day been dissolved. E. S. TORRANCE.
Winfield, Kansas, December 20, 1876.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 3, 1877.
HON. C. R. MITCHELL will take his departure for the State Capitol thisweek, in company with Hon. A. J. Pyburn. Hon. L. J. Webb, who has been rusticatingin Pennsylvania for some months, will join them in Topeka, fresh from theold hills, and full of vigor. The Cowley County team will be a hard oneto get away with.
Winfield Courier, January 4, 1877.
The Southern "Bulldozer" of modern times is a Democrat, who,failing to carry his point by reason, adopts a mask, and armed with black-snake,hangman's rope, or revolver, and the incendiary's torch, marches forth toconquer, through blood and fire. He is not a respectable being but an outlaw.He repudiates a government of law and inaugurates a government of force.The details of the atrocities committed by fiends called "bulldozers"during the last year alone causes the average American citizen to long forsome power that shall suppress their crimes.
The man who has no word of censure for their atrocities; the man whoexpresses a wish to kill the officers or instruments of the law used tosuppress such criminals, is a "bulldozer" at heart.
Today the American nation stands as it were, upon the eve of revolution.All good citizens express the wish, utter the hope, and are firm in theintent that the grave and critical political situation shall be settledby civil, peaceable, and lawful means and power. Force and bloodshed aredeprecated by every lover of his country, and the man who now tries to fanthe embers of discontent into the blaze of war is a murderer at heart.
The late Hon. W. P. Hackney essays to be a political leader. He assumesthe role of oracle and teacher, politically. During the past fewweeks, he has uttered such infamous political sentiments, while a journalcalling itself Republican in politics was at the same time besliming himwith flattery, that the COURIER took occasion to pull the mask from thepretended Republican by publishing some of his public utterances. The brickwas awkwardly hurled, but the duck was hit and fluttered terribly. Therewas no reflection upon his private character, no question concerning hisbravery, no imputation upon the record of his life either public or private.Nothing but his public declarations of a political character were referredto for the purpose of showing where his heart was, no matter under whichbanner he might enroll his name.
Instead of fairly and squarely denying these statements credited to him,he appears in "a card" nearly two columns long in the Democraticorgan of this city. The burden of that card is a justification of his politicalopinions and personal abuse of E. C. Manning. He assumes the character ofa very large dog by saying that a "fist is barking at his heels."An attack at the heels having merely thrown the large dog into hydrophobicconvulsions, we shall allow the tice to take him by one ear, byhis political ear, this time. The big dog's citizen ear, which bears themarks of an adventurous life, shall not be disturbed. Nor shall the stragglingofficial hairs thereon be ruffled. The tice will hold him by the politicalear while the hydrophobic fit holds the body, lest the unwary may be bitten.Here are bits of froth that escaped from his mouth and appeared as "acard" in the Democratic Telegram.
"I have said, and still say, that the conduct of the President,with regard to Louisiana and South Carolina, was unlawful, and that in myjudgment he ought to be impeached for a violation of the constitution ofthe United States. The only reason that I can see for sending them (troops)to Louisiana, is that Gen. Grant knew that Board ought to be killed.* * * I think his action since the election, with regard to Louisiana, SouthCarolina, and Florida, simply infamous. * * * I say that if a majority ofthe people of the United States want Tilden, they shall have him,and the man that says nay is a traitor. * * * * It will not do at this latedate to disfranchise a majority of the people of the United States in themanner attempted in Louisiana (by the Returning Board.) * * * *
"I expect to remain a Republican, and in the future I shall do politicallyjust as I have done in the past, what I please, and if there be any Republicansor Democrats who do not like it they can help themselves. I do not owe theRepublican party, as a party, anything. I endorse its principles, but notalways its servants, and I have a right to dissent from any acts of menelected by it to office, or oppose them for election if I want to, and todo this without being misrepresented or abused by characterless scoundrelswho, through the beneficent influence of too lenient bankrupt law and awant of the proper conception of the fearful crime of perjury committedin the securing of a discharge from debt, thereby are today enabled to publishnewspapers in which they abuse those whom they personally dislike, and ofwhom they are politically jealous."
COURIER RESPONSE:
The foregoing quotations from the "card" scarcely need a commentto amplify their infamy. A respectable Democrat would not utter such sentiments,but their author says he "is a Republican." Like the pirate uponthe high seas, he hoists the national flag of the merchantman he wishesto capture and sails alongside the vessel he intends to scuttle and in anunexpected moment, draws his cutlass upon the throats of the too confidingcrew.
That "returning board ought to be killed." That is what the"Republican" Hackney says. No word of rebuke from him towardsthe perpetrators of ten thousand assassinations in Louisiana during thelast ten years. His hate is turned upon the Returning Board and towardsa loyal president who will not fold his hands and mutely see the officersof the law assassinated by the murderers of loyal voters. If there had beenno murders in Louisiana for opinion's sake there would have been no returningboard. That board was created by law to prevent outlaws from procuring byforce what they could not procure by logic. The Returning Board was createdby law to maintain the dignity of the law. The soldiers were sent underthe law to sustain the majesty of the law. It is a law that the bulldozerhates--not less in Louisiana than in Illinois--not less in Illinois thanin Kansas.
Again: "I say if a majority of the people of the United States wantTilden, they shall have him." Here comes your "bulldozer"again. A majority of the people of the United States voted against JamesBuchanan when he was made the Democratic President, but that majority didnot talk "wah" because he was inaugurated. It was the minoritythat rebelled at the close of his administration because they failed toname his successor.
"I will help inaugurate Tilden with bayonets, if necessary,"says Bill Hackney. Have any Republicans threatened war if Hayes was notinaugurated? Plenty of the brawling class of Democrats have threatened "wah"if Tilden was not inaugurated. We copy from the Inter-Ocean a pictureof the "Average Democrat." It says:
"By some law which it is not necessary to analyze, the Democraticparty draws to itself the reckless orders of society. Rule or ruin has alwaysbeen the creed of the party. The average democrat is inebriated with theidea of power. The country was made for him: The corn fields, the coal fields,and the 'nigg*r' are for his lordship. Whoever else aspires to, or acquires,an office, from the Presidency down to the whisky gauger, is an usurper,an embodiment of treason, whom it is right to scotch or kill with the readiestweapon. To bulldoze is to assert and defend certain inalienable rights,among which are power and access to the public crib. A horse-leech is nothingcompared to him in the cry, 'Give, give.'"
Could the most artistic limner have painted the Cowley County "wahhoss" in fairer colors? The New York Herald, the Nation,and scores of independent, non-partisan journals say that the man who now,while the public mind is excited, talks of bloodshed and "wah,"is a "miscreant."
"It will not do (for a returning board) to disfranchise the peopleof Louisiana," says Hackney. No, but it is all right for a rebel to"disfranchise" an American citizen that refuses to join a DemocraticTilden club by first emasculating him, then murdering him, then throwinghis dead body into the river, then stabbing his wife in a dozen places,outraging her person, killing the babe in her arms, and finally burningtheir house to the ground, as was done with the Pinkston family. That isthe kind of disfranchising that Hackney has no censure for. When it comesto throwing out the returns from East Feliciana Parish, which in 1874 cast847 Democratic and 1,688 Republican votes; and in 1876 cast but 3 Republicanand over 2,000 Democratic votes, "the returning board ought tobe killed." And "Grant ought to be impeached" for preventingit. East Feliciana was pretty well bulldozed. To disfranchise 1,685 voterswith the revolver, cowhide, and torch is not worth the notice of the "constitutional"mind of the Cowley County "wah hoss," but "the returningboard ought to be killed."
When a man's sympathies and excuses are all expressed for the shortcomingsof the Democracy and his censure and obloquy is aimed always at Republicans,it is not difficult to tell where he belongs. If he thinks the Democratsare right, he should say so and stand or fall with them. He certainly hasno business in Republican counsels.
To the closing sentences of the above quotations from his "card,"this is our reply. When he conveys the idea that Mr. Manning committed perjuryin obtaining a discharge from bank-ruptcy, he utters a falsehood that isas black as the heart that gives it birth. On the contrary, the creditorsof Baker & Manning were so well satisfied with Mr. Manning's actionin the case that they voluntarily signed his discharge from bankruptcy inMarch 1872. Neither is Mr. Manning "politically jealous" of Mr.Hackney. A man might be jealous of one with pure reputation and in whomall fair-minded men had confidence. Is Mr. Hackney such? No one would befoolish enough to assault his record to destroy him. He is his own executioner.
"In the future I shall do politically just as I have done in thepast, what I please," says the wah hoss. This brings us to the gristleof the big dog's ear. Now the tice closes on the real cause of the big dog'shydrophobia. The froth in the foregoing eighteen words is a manifest fromwhich a real diagnosis of the case can be made up. He means by doing "justas I have done in the past," that he will not do as he agrees to do;that politically he is utterly unreliable; that he recognizes no moral obligations;that he has no respect for the rights or feelings of others. As for doing"what I please," that is what ails the big dog. He cannot do ashe pleases as we shall proceed to show.
When the subject of filling the various national State, district, andcounty offices was before the people of Cowley County, our wah hoss, byhis own public (not private and confidential) declarations would have Tildenfor President in preference to Conklin. In this he could not "do whatI please." And when it comes to "inaugurating Tilden with bayonets,"he will not be permitted to "do what I please." In the matterof State officers he was going to "bust" Geo. T. Anthony, buthe failed to "do what I please." In the matter of having a handin naming a Congressman for this district, he was not permitted to "dowhat I please." In the matter of district Judge, he was going to "bustBill Campbell," but was not permitted to "do what I please."He promised the Cowley County delegation to Sluss, of Wichita, for the judgeship,but failed to "do what I please," but did what he has "donein the past," went back on it. He agreed to support Webb for judge,but did what he has "done in the past," and probably did "dowhat I please."
He agreed solemnly and faithfully to support Manning for Senator andfinally did as he has "done in the past," repudiated his pledgesand undoubtedly did "do what I please."
He repeatedly said he would not be a candidate himself for the place,but secretly strove for it and failed to "do what I please."
He was "going to bust Manning" in two different conventions,but failed to "do what I please." After the conventions, he voluntarilyannounced that he should not make any speeches in the canvass and then,during the last week thereof, sneaked out over the county and wilfully,intentionally, and wickedly misrepresented the Republican Senatorial candidate,thereby doing as he had "done in the past," violated his voluntaryagreement. He was not going to take any part in the canvass, but did writeseveral articles misrepresenting Mr. Manning that were published in theTelegram and Traveler over a fictitious name, therebydoing as he had "done in the past"--lied.
He was "going to bust Lemmon politically," but that gentlemanstepped out of the bulldozer's way, hence he failed to "do what I please."He was "going to take Story's scalp" in the Republican convention,but failed to "do what I please." He was going to name two orthree other county offices, but failed to "do what I please,"and hence did just as he had "done in the past." He peddled bogustickets all day at the polls Nov. 7, 1876, and hence did just as he had"done in the past."
The cruel imputations that the wah hoss makes in his "card"upon Mr. Manning's private life or public record were sufficiently answeredwhen Mr. Manning in a public card offered to withdraw from the Senatorialcandidacy if his enemies could establish the truth of any of the infamouscharges they were making against him.
The wah hoss of the Walnut says: "I do not want any newspaper warwith Col. Manning. I have no paper of my own to reply to him in." Thecolumns of two papers in Cowley County have been open to Mr. Hackney forthree months past and he has freely abused Mr. Manning therein during thattime. But no reply has ever been tortured out of the subject of his calumnies.The wah hoss has two newspapers under his thumb and is annoyed because thethird is not there.
During the last five years, more than two hundred columns ofnewspaper matter containing abuse of Mr. Manning have been published inCowley County. Of late Mr. Hackney has seen fit to contribute his share.It would be an outrage for him to finally resent some of it. A "tice"can be worried until he will turn upon a very large dog. Thus far,we have only animadverted upon the public declarations and political inconsistenciesof the wah hoss. No one ever made more generous efforts to cover with themantle of charity the missteps of the private and official record of anotherthan has the man whom Hackney calls a "fist" striven to do forthe wah hoss.
Some people have rights as well as others. A decent respect for the feelingsof our fellow beings, an honorable discharge of moral obligations, a respectfulexpression of difference in political opinions, ordinarily, should be acknowledgedand recognized, but under the present administration if you want peace,call off the "bulldozers." "Let us have peace."
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
It looks as though the whole Cowley County delegation at Topeka had goneback on the COURIER. Not a word from Walton, Lemmon, Webb, Pyburn, or Mitchellin two weeks. Even the ladies have not written. We are not so much surprisedat the reticence of Walton, Lemmon, and Webb; but the silence of Pyburnand Mitchell is mysterious. Here we are all anxiety about the prospectsof "our Wirt"--days and nights of suspense and no light. We thinkhowever the situation is safe or there would have been some "hollering."But to the time of going to press this is our latest news, taken from theold, reliable morning Commonwealth, of January 9th.
"We are authorized to state that Judge Webb is not a candidate forChief Clerk of the House. This we suppose assures the unanimous electionof Wirt Walton. He will make a No. 1 Clerk in all respects and is entitledto the office."
Judge Webb is the only opposing candidate that we have heard of and consequentlyMr. Walton must have a clear field.
Winfield Courier, January 11, 1877.
A Card. The partnership heretofore existing between the undersigned andMr. E. S. Torrance having been dissolved, I shall continue the practicealone, on my return from Topeka, and shall return in time to attend theDistrict Court at its next session. L. J. WEBB.
Arkansas City Traveler, January 24, 1877.
HON. C. R. MITCHELL is a member of the Committee on Appropriations, EducationalInstitutes, and Revisions of Laws. Hon. L. J. WEBB is a member of the Committeeon Printing and State Library.
Winfield Courier, January 25, 1877.
L. J. WEBB is a member of the committee on Printing and State Library.
Winfield Courier, February 15, 1877.
The time has come when plain talk is necessary to awaken the people ofCowley County to the dangers that beset them. All pretend to want a railroadconstructed into this county. We know that some men do not want one constructed.We know that the farmers, the mechanics, the laborers want one; we knowthat the men who are so involved in debt that they cannot save their farmsexcept by favorable crops and cheap access to market or by selling at suchfigures as the construction of a railroad only can bring are also seriouslyin favor of a railroad. We know, that as a rule, the money loaners do notwant a road, and that some of the merchants do not want a road, and theA. T. & S. F. company does not want a road, and that the paid attorneysof the various parties, corporations, and interests above mentioned, donot want a road built into Cowley County.
Now, oh, most respected legislators for whom are you going to legislate?If you allow the present railroad bond law to stand upon the statute book,you do it in the interest of the latter class, so far as Cowley County isconcerned. If you allow the majority of the voters of Cowley County to decidewhether they will aid a railroad or not, even at an election called by apetition signed by two fifths of the taxpayers of the county, then willyou legislate for the first enumerated class.
Most wise A. J. Pyburn! We warn you that it would be better for you tonever have seen the valley of the Walnut River than to record your voteagainst a bill which allows a majority of the people of Cowley County tosettle this railroad question for themselves. If you are even the remotecause of maintaining the present law, then shall you be made responsiblefor all the evils that follow.
At a meeting held in Winfield last Tuesday week, which was called forthe purpose of having some railroad men talk to our citizens, a resolutionwas offered asking the Representatives and Senators from this county tovote in favor of a change of the bond law from two thirds to a majorityvote. That resolution was tabled. The Telegram of this place, whichis the tool of those who do not want a railroad, parades the action of themeeting as an indication of public sentiment on the question of the changeof the bond law. But such is not public sentiment. The men who want railroadsfeel outraged by the action of that meeting.
The unwise and unjustifiable impulse that prompted the persons who opposedthe adoption of the resolution will be better understood and properly correctedin due time. The action of that meeting itself would not have been noticedhad it not been given a significance it does not deserve by the tool ofthe anti-railroad men. It is not time now to stop and quarrel. Unless thatlaw is changed, we get no railroad in Cowley County for three years. Thereare but a few days in which that work can be done. The taxpayers of WinfieldTownship are called together for consultation next Saturday, Feb. 17th,at 2 p.m., for the purpose of taking such action on this question as thesituation demands. Let every farmer, every taxpayer in this township whowants a railroad, be on hand. If you wish your voices heard, NOW IS THETIME TO SPEAK.
Skipped the rest of Manning's editorials. He criticized Hon. L. J. Webbfor being a member of five different committees and as a result neglectinghis house duties. He pushed for a narrow gauge railroad in two or threearticles. He praised Senator Plumb in another article. He condemned governmentfor pushing 500,000 acres of land belonging to the common school fund intothe hands of railroads.
"By act of February 23, 1866, the Legislature passed a law by whichthese lands were ordered sold and the proceeds given to certain railroadcompanies therein named to aid the construction of the several lines ofrailway represented by such companies. This act has been 'a harp of a thousandstrings,' whereon demagogues have made music to the bewilderment of thepeople."
Winfield Courier, February 15, 1877.
Speaker Wood has appointed Hon. L. J. Webb as chairman of two committees,Appro-priations and Revision of Laws. These are important committees, andit is a high compliment to our member.
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS: C. M. SCOTT, EDITOR.]
Arkansas City Traveler, Wednesday, February 21, 1877.
Nothing of special importance has transpired in the Legislature of late.L. J. Webb has been recognized and exceedingly favored on several Committees.The Senate passed a concurrent resolution asking Congress to give Kansasthe fort buildings and reservation at Fort Harker, the State to relinquishall claims on account of the Price and Indian raids. It was stated thatthe object was to make a reform school at Harker. About a dozen resolutionsinstructing Congress on various subjects, were then passed. Among these:The Senate concurrent resolution asking Congress to organize a TerritorialGovernment in the Indian Territory was passed. On the third reading thebill to allow the school fund to be invested in school bonds was lost, butleft in a shape to be brought up again. A resolution asking Congress toorganize a Territorial Government in the Indian Territory was adopted.
Winfield Courier, March 1, 1877.
TO JAMES KELLY, Winfield, Kansas.
Bill has passed the House O. K.
Signed: MANNING.
Dear reader: The above isn't much; but it means a great deal more thanwe can tell in this short article. It means that the bill to repeal theinfamous "two thirds" clause of the railroad law which was passedin the interest of the railroads then operated in Kansas, has passed bothbranches of the legislature, and that now the interest paying and mortgagebedeviled yeoman of Cowley County can get a railroad by a majority vote.
It means that brain and muscle has at last triumphed over money, wind,and brag. We cannot refrain from congratulating the good people of thiscounty upon their happy deliverance from the thraldom of the money ringof Winfield. Now we can get a railroad in spite of the opposition of Readand Robinson and their paid strikers, the Hackneys and Rushbridges.
The friends of a railroad have reason to thank Col. Manning, Leland J.Webb, and R. L. Walker for their untiring efforts in their behalf. Overthe active opposition of Pyburn in the Senate, Mitchell in the House, theTraveler and Telegram, the brick bank, with a Methodistpreacher and a lawyer as a tail to the kite thrown in. Leland J. Webb, solitaryand alone, aided by Col. Manning's fertile brain and Dick Walker's splendidtact, wins the fight and the people are again triumphant. Glory enough forone day.
[CRITICISM IN EDITORIAL OF E. C. MANNING.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 7, 1877.
The Courier of last week gives an exceedingly complimentarynotice of the editor himself, for the wonderful influence he exerted insecuring the passage of the new bond law bill requiring a majority voteonly, and says:
"The friends of a railroad have reason to thank Col. Manning, LelandJ. Webb, and R. L. Walker for their untiring efforts in their behalf. LelandJ. Webb, solitary and alone, aided by Col. Manning's fertile brain and DickWalker's splendid tact, wins the fight and the people are again triumphant."
The facts are that the two gentlemen spoken of, not members of the Legislature,learned at Winfield that the law was about to pass, as we learned here,and immediately hurried away to share the supposed glory of its success.The matter was all understood before the gentlemen left Winfield, and theybarely arrived to see the result of it, notwithstanding credit is givento the gentleman of "fertile brain" notoriety.
Mr. Webb worked earnestly for the bill, and with the assistance of Prof.Kellogg, of Lyon, and members from the Western counties, secured its passage,while the Winfield gentlemen were eagerly hunting over the papers to learnthe result.
Winfield Courier, March 8, 1877. Editorial Page.
Cowley County is out of the woods on the railroad question. The Kansaslegislature has cut the withes that bound us hand and foot. It is not possiblefor sidewalk politicians, money loaners, town-rivalry, and present existingrailroad lines to prevent the grain growers of Cowley County from obtainingcheap transportation over a direct line of railroad. We can help ourselves,and all know how it is with people who can help themselves; then there areplenty who are willing to help them. The men and communities who soughtto bind the withes tighter now hang their heads in shame and are shakingin their boots.
Never since Cowley has been settled have its people experienced sucha sensation as last week's COURIER created--consternation among the few,joy among the many. Such hand shakings and congratulations among the farmersover the news on the bond law question never was known in this new country.Last Thursday and Friday evenings men left their homes after dark to gotwo and three miles to read a copy of the COURIER containing the news. Byword, by letter, and correspondence to the COURIER the warmest commendationsand words of encouragement have poured in upon us for the persevering effortmade and success obtained right in the jaws of seeming defeat.
Several times during the last three weeks our friends at Topeka had informedus that help was needed at Topeka to pass the bill changing the law froma two thirds vote on railroad bonds. The first step necessary seemed tobe to get an expression of the people here in favor of the change. An attemptwas made to obtain that expression. It was defeated. Our readers know bywhom and how. While that meeting was held Senator Pyburn was here in personand informed all with whom he talked that the law could not and should notbe changed. As soon as he arrived in Winfield private letters left hereto the majority law friends in Topeka to push the bill through the Senateduring Pyburn's absence. It was done. On Thursday evening at 7 p.m., Feb.22, word was received from Topeka informing us of its passage and advisingthat it was necessary that help should be present to put the bill throughthe House. In two hours from the time of receiving the letter, three "solitaryhorsem*n" in an open buggy might have been seen leaving Winfield ata brisk trot. They drove to Wichita in six hours that cold, dark night,arriving about 10 minutes before the train started for Topeka. Arrivingat Topeka at noon they found the bill in the hands of the "Committeeon Municipal Corporations," which was hostile to its passage.
To get a favorable report out of a committee that was opposed to thepassage of the bill, to lift the bill over the Committee of the Whole, toput it on third reading without amendment over the heads of two hundredbills, each of which had friends anxious for their passage, to overthrowand outwit the opposition of the older counties, the railroad terminuses,the lines which carry our products, the three members from Butler, one fromSedgwick, one from Greenwood, Mitchell and Pyburn from Cowley (for Pyburnhad returned and opposed the passage of the bill through the House), andto finally obtain 67 votes, three more than was necessary, looks, now thatthe battle is over, an impossible task.
It would make a long story to tell it all; and furthermore, it wouldlet our enemies into the mysteries of legislative legerdemain which mightbe of advantage to them hereafter.
But we cannot leave this subject without giving the names of those whowere not members of the Legislature, but to whom the people of Cowley areunder special obligations for this great favor; this quick, decisive, andglorious victory, with all the odds against us.
Here they are: A. B. Lemmon, W. W. Walton, R. L. Walker, B. F. Baldwin,and a State officer in high position who would not like to have his namementioned in this connection. Modesty prevents our naming the other individual.
The heavy battle was fought in the House. It occupied the most of theday Tuesday. Of course, our own Webb was the only champion on the floorfor the bill from the great southwest. Hon. Ed. Hewins, of Cedarvale, didnoble work. Guy of Chautauqua, Dobyns of Elk, Hubbard of Sumner, Baldwinof Wichita, and Baker, one of the members from Greenwood, stood square upto the work in all the parliamentary dodges that were taken by the enemiesof the bill to defeat it.
Winfield Courier, March 8, 1877.
The stem-winder that runs the Traveler is worried about Manning'sbrains. Nobody ever worried about the brains of the stem-winder. The Traveler,the Telegram, old man Pyburn, handsome man Mitchell, the 4 percentring on one side; Webb, the COURIER, and the people on the other side--'twasan unequal contest. Poor Pyburn! Poor Mitchell!! Poor stem-winder!! Squeak.
[COMMUNICATION FROM *** AT WINFIELD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, March 14, 1877.
Hon. L. J. Webb returned from his labors (which, by the way, have beenmuch for this place) on the 8th, and will resume the practice of law.
The "Philomathic," a society organized among the enterprisingportion of the community for literary purposes, meets every Friday evening.The programme for tonight consists of music by the string band, essays,and debate. The topic for discussion tonight is, "Resolved,That man is a creature of circ*mstances." In connection with the exercises,they answer all scientific and historical questions.
Our new church buildings are progressing finely, and will soon be completed.It is the wish of the community that Rev. Rushbridge should be returnedto this charge, for which he has been laboring unceasingly.
Platter's and Williams' building will be pushed as rapidly as possibleuntil completed. W. H. Maris is refitting his store building with a newfront, when it will be occupied by T. E. Gilleland's boot and shoe store.The same gentleman will soon begin to build a stone store building, 25 x100 feet, on the same block, opposite the Central Hotel. As soon as completed,it will be occupied by J. B. Lynn. Mr. Wm. Newton, from Arkansas City, hasopened a harness shop in Mullen's old stand, where he keeps a full supplyof goods in his line. A new store is being opened in Boyle's old stand bya firm from Council Grove.
The above are only a few of the improvements taking place in our littlecity.
The repeal of the bond law is discussed often and long, and yet someare not convinced it is for the best. "And still we have no railroad."***
P.S. Since writing, or rather, while writing, the jubilee began, andthe enthusiastic ones are making things lively by firing anvils, buildingbonfires, making speeches, etc.
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1877. Editorial Page.
We believe in giving credit to whom credit is due, and hence are impelledto say a good word for our representative, Hon. L. J. Webb. He made Cowleya good member. Being quite familiar with his action during the session justclosed, it must be said of him that it was free from criticism, and thathis constituents endorse his course. We don't know of a measure which headvocated or identified himself with, from the election of Senator Plumbdown to the all important railroad bill, but wheat were successful. It canbe safely said that no new member had greater, and few as large influenceas he.
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1877. Editorial Page.
[THREE EDITORIAL ARTICLES DEALING WITH MANNING AND WICHITA.]
The article headed "The Kingdom of Wichita," in another column,was substantially true at the date of its publication one year ago lastNovember. But the situation is changed now. The power of the Kingdom iswaning. The legislature has taken the cattle trade from that city; it haslost its political prestige; the Minister of State and the Eaglenewsandtimesare divided in their counsels; railroads are being constructed towards theoutlying provinces; the heavens no longer rain manna; the day of Barbourbonds is passed. We owe Wichita no ill will, but its prosperity was ourdisadvantage. The march of empire will soon leave it as a monument by thewayside.
In the march of empire Cowley has been unfortunate. It has become a feebleand dependent province in the Kingdom of Wichita. It is located in an isolateregion fifty miles from the head of navigation on the river called Atchisontopekaundsantafe.Its people are vassals to the tithe gatherers who swarm the wharves of theprincipal mart of that busy thoroughfare.
The Kingdom of Wichita is of modern establishment. Its political conquestsare marvelous, its territorial accretions incredible. Insinuating and subtlein movement, its scepter bears away in all the fair region round about.
Its king, Enterprise, is a descendant of Count Brains and Baroness Nerve.The Count distinguished himself in the days of the American Republic, andfigures largely in its history; but was finally ruined in an effort to provethe Arkansas river (one of the streams of that Republic) navigable afterthe Almighty had pronounced it not navigable.
The Baroness Nerve lost her fortune in a struggle in the latter daysof the Republic, wherein a few theorists attempted to construct a narrowgauge railroad as a competing enterprise to the Atchisontopekaundsantaferiver.
Shortly after this the Count and Baroness were engaged in Barbour bonds,and out of this alliance, Enterprise, the King of the Wichitas, was born.He rules with a firm but cunning hand. If the heaven rains manna, he presentsthe imposing census rolls of Harper and other uninhabited provinces to theGreat Giver and receives a deluge of rations thereon.
Is there an international exhibition of the products of the earth? TheKing sends his runners into the fertile provinces of Sumner and Cowley,and plucks from the fields of his illiterate subjects the fairest specimensof fruits and grain and forwards them as the indigenous products of thesoil immediately along the banks of the Atchisontopekaundsantafe river encompassingthe capital city of the Kingdom.
Is a subjugating expedition planned against the barbarous tribes of anunconquered region? The forces must rendezvous, outfit, and march from thecapital city of the Kingdom of the Wichitas. Does a stranger from a foreignland with richest raiment and purses of gold wish to enter the provincesof the Wichita Kingdom, he must first disperse his gold and part his raimentamong the courtiers of the throne immediately upon landing at the wharvesat the head of navigation on the Atchisontopekaundsantafe river. If he escapesthe covetousness of the capital city with life enough to move his nakedbody, he is ordered to go in to the outlying provinces, and settles uponunoccupied lands and raise wheat for the tollgatherers of the capital city.
Do the scribes and wise men of the east come in large trains to viewthe promised land? They are shown through the dusty streets of the capitalcity and marched beneath the tail of the eagle that perches above them,and are then admonished that the provinces are occupied, it is the King'spleasure that you should go home to your people and invite them to comeand abide at the seat of the Wichita government.
The King, through his Minister of State, Meundbentundjake, has greatinfluence. He names the judges, and counselors, and land officers, and postmastersand officials throughout the provinces.
Notwithstanding the arbitrary conduct of the Minister, Meundbentundjake,the provinces waxed strong and grew great harvests. This caused them toseek other outlets for their products than down the Atchisontopekaundsantaferiver, whereupon the wicked Minister of the State, Meundbentundjake, causedan edict to go forth pronouncing the Atchisontopekaundsantafe the only navigablestream in the provinces and threatening destruction to all crafts that shouldattempt to float upon other waters.
All intercourse with the provinces was interdicted save that which passedthrough the capital of the Kingdom and over the favored stream.
The most noble King's subjects in the province of Cowley are becominguneasy. There are signs of an insurrection in this isolated land. The husbandmentherein complain of the tithe-gatherers at the capital, and the tolls uponthe navigable stream leading therefrom.
The tid-bits that from time to time have dropped from the King's thronehave been partially distributed among the centurions. The Budget is searchedin vain for a glimmer of hope or a straw to grasp. These mutterings comealso from other provinces. The Kingdom of Wichita is threatened with downfall.A change in ministry or policy would scarcely save it from decay. The loadedbarges that have floated so lazily on the bosom of the Atchisontopekaundsantafe river are going to seek other channels. The motto of the uprising is:"That God help those who help themselves." The rallying cry is:"Give us liberty or give us a rest."
Hon. William Ross evidently has read the "Kingdom of Wichita."He is a member of the House from Sedgwick County and sympathized with usin the struggle over the bond law, although voting against the change. Hewrites as follows to the Wichita Eagle.
"Among the distinguished visitors to the Capital this week was Col.Manning, Pasha of the benighted province of Cowley, accompanied by his ambassadors.He derived his name from once having been engaged in Manning a flatboatof the Atchisontopekaundsantafee river. His chief business here was thesigning of the Declaration of Independence of Cowley, March 1, 1877. Andthat the event might be celebrated in a becoming manner, the Pasha, hisHigh Priest Webb, Chief Secretary Walton, and Walker, High Sheriff of theProvince, were escorted along Kansas Avenue in great pomp, each bearingin his hand a copy of the document that should make their people foreverfree. Filing into a photography they were received by the painters withuncovered heads, who placed them in position. It was a night never to beforgotten. There stood the Pasha in the background, his shadow on the walllooking taller than usual. Near him stood the high priest, one eye watchingthe painter, the other watching a spider, who after several attempts reachingthe ceiling, which was considered a favorable omen, that the day was nearat hand when the Pasha and the Pashaers, the rest of the Cowleans, and theirwives and little ones, should have the pleasure of spending the happy days"riding on the rail."
"The chief secretary and the high sheriff of the Province sat crosslegged on mats made from the pelts of the cashmere goat. The object accomplished,the Pasha returned by steamer to the head of navigation on the Atchisontopekaundsantafeeriver, to tell the glad tidings to the Cowleyites, and live in high hopesof the future."
Winfield Courier, March 15, 1877.
L. J. Webb and family returned home last Thursday evening.
Arkansas City Traveler, March 21, 1877.
Leland J. Webb, of Winfield, will be appointed Register of Wichita LandOffice in place of H. L. Taylor, present incumbent. W. V. Times.
While we have no objections to Mr. Taylor, we should be gratifiedto see Mr. Webb so well favored.
Winfield Courier, March 29, 1877.
That game of base ball on last Tuesday afternoon between the two nines,one of which was made up of attorneys exclusively and the other of businessmen,of this city, was decidedly an interesting one. The players, and a largecrowd of spectators, assembled upon the ground, south of town, at [? failedto give time ?] o'clock p.m., soon after which the game commenced, withthe attorneys in the field and the businessmen at the bat.
The first man called to the bat was Mr. Thos. Copeland, who made a fairhit, making a home run. Next came Geo. Robinson and A. C. Dickinson, both"fouled out." Fred Hunt then went to bat and by a fair hit madesecond base, where he was left by Sid Major being put out by a fly catch,and being the third man out, when the businessmen went into the field andthe attorneys to the bat. Mr. L. J. Webb was the first attorney called tothe bat and "fouled out." Mr. Buckman then followed with a fairhit and went to second base. Jno. Pryor went out on three strikes. A. H.Green then went to first base by a good hit, and Mr. Buckman at the sametime making a score; Mr. Jennings went out on three strikes, being the thirdman out, put the side out, leaving Mr. Green on second base. The score waseven at the end of the first inning, the businessmen gained five in thesecond, and the attorneys gained three in the third, leaving the businessmenonly two ahead. The businessmen went seven more ahead in the fourth inningand sixteen in the fifth, leaving the score stand as will be seen below.The game was well played considering the fact that most of the players hadnot played a game of base ball for years and several of them never in theirlives. Considerable interest was manifested in the game.
At the beginning of the fifth inning, Mr. Green withdrew from the attorneys,whose place was supplied by Will Holloway, and Geo. Robinson withdrew fromthe businessmen, whose place was supplied by Mr. Guinn, of Sheridan Township,who made during this inning the strongest hit made during the game and madea home run. O. M. Seward, of the attorneys, did excellent playing behindthe bat. The game was called at the close of the fifth inning, at 5 o'clockp.m.; duration of the game 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Score given after article shows that Businessmen had 44 runs; Attorneyshad 19 runs.
Players--Businessmen: Copeland, c.; Dickinson, p.; Hunt, F. C., s.s.;Robinson, 1st b.; Major, 2nd b.; Stuart, 3rd b.; Wallis, B. M., l. f.; Hunt,J. S., c. f.; Starwait, r. f.
[FUNNY! THEY GAVE SOME INITIALS FOR DIFFERENT INDIVIDUALS AND DID NOTGIVE INITIALS FOR OTHERS.]
Players--Attorneys: Webb, 2nd b.; Buckman, p.; Pryor, J. D., 1st b.;Green, c. f.; Jennings, 3rd b.; Seward, c.; Asp, r. f.
Winfield Courier, May 10, 1877.
Henry E. Asp and Linus S. Webb, were examined and admitted to the baron last Tuesday morning. Both gentlemen have been studying law for sometime, and we predict they will make good attorneys.
Winfield Courier, May 10, 1877.
The following are the attorneys in attendance at the Cowley County districtcourt now in session: L. J. Webb, J. E. Allen, D. A. Millington, Jennings& Buckman, E. S. Torrance, Hackney & McDonald, James McDermott,A. H. Green, Pyburn & Seward, J. M. Alexander, Pryor & Pryor, HenryE. Asp, Linus S. Webb, of Winfield; C. R. Mitchell, E. B. Kager, James Christian,of Arkansas City; A. L. Redden, of Eldorado; M. S. Adams, of Wichita; J.D. McBrian, of Sedan, Chautauqua County; J. M. White, of Howard City, ElkCounty.
Winfield Courier, May 17, 1877.
Webb's card has been changed from Leland J. Webb to L. J. & L. S.Webb, as will be seen by turning to the first page.
CARD:
L. J. & Linus Webb, attorneys...
[ATTORNEYS IN ATTENDANCE AT DISTRICT COURT.]
Arkansas City Traveler, May 23, 1877.
The following attorneys were in attendance upon the present term of theDistrict Court: Hon. Alfred L. Redden, of Eldorado; Mr. White, Howard City;Judge M. S. Adams, Wichita; Mr. McBryan, Sedan; Hon. C. R. Mitchell, AmosWalton, Judge Christian, E. B. Kager and Col. McMullen, of Arkansas City;and Messrs. Hackney & McDonald, Pryor & Pryor, Jennings & Buckman,Pyburn & Seward, Jas. McDermott, Henry E. Asp, E. S. Torrance, J. E.Allen, L. J. & Linus Webb, D. A. Millington, A. H. Green, W. M. Boyer,J. M. Alexander, of Winfield.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
A. H. Green is sued for $5,000 damages for the false imprisonment ofJ. E. Searle, of this city. L. J. Webb, Attorney.
Winfield Courier, July 19, 1877.
Mr. Searle, of this place, was released from custody in Wichita lastFriday by writ of Habeas Corpus. L. J. Webb, Attorney.
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 25, 1877.
The Wichita Eagle says W. P. Hackney, Leland J. Webb, Hon. E.C. Manning, and W. M. Allison were all up at Wichita last week "andgot it."
[ITEM FROM THE WICHITA EAGLE, POSTMASTER MURDOCK'S PAPER.]
Arkansas City Traveler, July 25, 1877.
The prominent dignitaries of the city of Winfield were all up this week.W. P. Hackney, Esq., was after an injunction against the issue of railroadbonds in Cowley County. He got it. Leland J. Webb, Esq., wanted a writ ofhabeas corpus for a client. He got it. Hon. E. C. Manning was upfor a taste of city life. He got it. Will Allison, editor of the Telegram,was up for money. From his looks, we guess he secured an abundance.
Looks like another sister of L. J. Webb got married...
Winfield Courier, August 16, 1877.
J. H. Wood, of Wellsburg, New York, brother-in-law of L. J. Webb, calledupon us this week. Like all newcomers, he is delighted with Cowley Countyand thinks of becoming a citizen thereof.
Winfield Courier, August 30, 1877.
The District Court commenced its session on Monday with a light docket,and it is to be hoped that it will be cleared up this week. The followingmembers of the bar present: Hon. W. P. Campbell, Judge; E. S. Bedilion,Clerk; R. L. Walker, Sheriff; M. S. Adams, of Wichita, C. R. Mitchell, E.B. Kager, and A. Walton, of Arkansas City; J. McDermott, County Attorney,J. E. Allen, A. J. Pyburn, O. M. Seward, W. M. Boyer, L. J. Webb, W. P.Hackney, J. W. McDonald, E. S. Torrance, H. E. Asp, D. A. Millington, S.D. Pryor, J. D. Pryor, F. S. Jennings, G. H. Buckman, and A. H. Green, ofWinfield, attorneys.
Winfield Courier, September 13, 1877.
Notice is hereby given that on the 27th day of September, 1877, the undersignedwill apply to the Governor of the State of Kansas for the pardon of oneJohn W. Barber, now confined in the jail of Cowley County, Kansas, havingbeen convicted at the May term, 1877, of the district court of said county,of the offense of assault with intent to rape.
Winfield, Kansas, Sept. 6, 1877.
Winfield Courier, September 20, 1877.
The following persons are elected delegates to the Republican conventionat the Courthouse next Saturday.
Beaver. M. Teter, A. B. Littell.
Bolton. Hawkins, Buzzi.
Cedar. Wiley, W. A. Metcalf.
Creswell. A. A. Chamberlain, R. A. Houghton, T. E. Manter, Dr. Cormack,Mantor.
Dexter. J. F. Hardin, Wallace Craiger.
Harvey. Martin Barber, Robt. Strother.
Liberty. J. H. Mounts, Henry Collier.
Maple. H. H. Siverd, W. B. Norman.
Ninnescah. Dr. Keffer, Leonard Stout.
Omnia. W. H. Gilliard, E. Henthorn.
Otter. J. J. Smith, Hiram Utt.
Pleasant Valley. T. J. Harris, Chas. Seacat
Richland. Daniel Maher, Samuel Groom, John R. Thompson.
Rock. Chas. Eagin, W. J. Funk, Geo. H. Williams.
Silver Creek. Wm. May, Harvey Smith.
Silverdale. B. French, B. W. Herbert.
Sheridan. H. Treadway.
Spring Creek. Wiley.
Tisdale. J. S. Baker, O. P. West.
Vernon. F. W. Schwantes, P. M. Waite, C. S. Smith.
Windsor. M. Jackson, J. Reynolds, Geo. Lee.
Winfield. Jno. E. Allen, H. L. Barker, W. P. Hackney, N. M. Chaffee,L. J. Webb, and Sampson Johnson.
Winfield Courier, September 20, 1877.
Friends of the parties will be pleased to learn that our friend, LinusS. Webb, and his brother, Lowell, both brothers of our L. J. Webb, are attendingthe far famed University at Ann Arbor, Michigan. They are intelligent andgentlemanly fellows and we predict that they will prove an honor to theinstitution.
Winfield Courier, September 20, 1877.
JOHN W. BARBER gives notice in another column that on the 27th inst.he will make application for a pardon. We are surprised at his doing this.He is the guest of the county and is as highly honored in Winfield as Gen.Grant is in Europe. Some months ago the mayor presented him with "thefreedom of the city."
Notice is hereby given that on the 27th day of September, 1877, the undersignedwill apply to the Governor of the State of Kansas for the pardon of oneJohn W. Barber, now confined in the jail of Cowley County, Kansas, havingbeen convicted at the May term, 1877, of the district court of said county,of the offense of assault with intent to rape.
[EDITORIAL COLUMNS: THE CONVENTION.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 26, 1877.
On last Saturday the delegates of the several townships, chosen to nominateofficers for the Republican ticket, gathered together at Winfield. As considerableinterest and strife was manifested among several of the candidates, themembers of the convention met early to organize. After considerable dispute,the temporary organization was completed and Mr. Callison, of Spring CreekTownship, chosen Chairman, Chas. Eagin, Secretary, with R. A. Houghton andL. J. Webb, tellers.
Nominations being in order, Geo. Walker, Leon Lippmann, A. T. Shenneman,and S. W. Chase were nominated for the office of Sheriff, and an informalballot taken resulting in 21 for Lippmann, 16 for Shenneman, 15 for Walker,and 4 for Chase.
Fifty-two ballots were then taken in succession, with nearly the sameresult and without any delay further than remarks now and then by the friendsof the several candidates and one hour for supper, lasting from one o'clockp.m. until eleven o'clock at night. By this time everyone was tired, weary,and disgusted, and expressed themselves bitterly against the men who seemedto endeavor to prevent a nomination by shunning a compromise, or listeningto the advice of friends. Finally, one of the leaders of Mr. Walker's partywas overhead to say he was going to throw his votes for Lippmann. Mr. Shennemanwas made aware of the fact and ran in ahead and withdrew his name from theconvention in favor of Mr. Lippmann, who was unanimously declared the nominee.
Following this Dr. Graham was elected Coroner, E. P. Kinne, Registrarof Deeds; Thomas Bryan, County Treasurer; Capt. Hunt, County Clerk; N. A.Haight, Surveyor; Geo. L. Gale, County Commissioner of the first districtof Rock, Maple, Vernon, Beaver, and Winfield Townships; Major Wm. Sleeth,Commissioner of the second district, comprised of Creswell, Bolton, PleasantValley, Silverdale, Liberty, Spring Creek, Cedar, and Otter Townships; R.F. Burden, Commissioner of the third district of Tisdale, Windsor, Dexter,Silver Creek, and Sheridan Townships.
Mr. Leon Lippmann is a hard working, industrious mill man, andone of the best posted countrymen that can be found in the county. He isperfectly competent to fulfill the office of Sheriff and will pride himselfin doing it well. He is well known throughout the county, has been hereseveral years, and has the confidence of the different communities he comesfrom.
Mr. E. P. Kinne was formerly one of our fellow-townsmen. As longas he has charge of the county records, we know they will receive his wholeand individual attention.
Tom Bryan is too well known to say much about him. He has handledthe county funds prudently and carefully one term of two years; representedCowley County with credit in the State Legislature, and is a man peculiarlyadapted to the position.
Winfield Courier, September 27, 1877.
Pursuant to the call of the Republican County Central Committee, of CowleyCounty, the delegates assembled in convention at the courthouse, in thecity of Winfield, on Saturday, Sept. 22, 1877, at 11 o'clock a.m.
The convention was called to order by T. K. Johnston, Chairman of theRepublican County Central Committee.
On motion Albert Chamberlain of Creswell Township, was chosen temporarychairman, and Chas. H. Eagin, of Rock Township, temporary secretary.
On motion the following committees were appointed by the chairman: Committeeon permanent organization, C. A. Metcalf, A. A. Wiley, Robt. Strother, C.S. Smith, and H. L. Barker.
Committee on credentials, W. P. Hackney, H. H. Siverd, James Utt, G.W. Herbert, and Daniel Maher.
On motion convention adjourned to meet at half past 1 o'clock.
Convention called to order by the chairman.
The committee on credentials submitted the following report.
Mr. Chairman: Your committee on credentials beg leave to request thatthe following townships and delegates therefrom are entitled to representationand seats in this convention.
Maple: H. H. Siverd and W. B. Norman.
Winfield: J. E. Allen, H. L. Barker, W. P. Hackney, N. M. Chaffey, L.J. Webb, and S. Johnson.
Ninnescah: A. S. Capper, Len Stotle.
Harvey: Robt. Strother, Martin Barber.
Spring Creek: A. A. Wiley, J. B. Callison.
Richland: Sam'l. Groom, J. R. Thompson, Daniel Maher.
Vernon: W. F. Schwantes, P. M. Waite, Chas. S. Smith.
Sheridan: C. Treadway, J. W. Dow.
Tisdale: O. P. West, J. S. Baker.
Silverdale: Benjamin French, G. W. Herbert.
Beaver: S. B. Littell, M. S. Teter.
Windsor: J. W. Jackson, Jos. Reynolds, Geo. Lee.
Bolton: L. Harkins, M. Bussi [?Buzzi], J. O. Herbert.
Omnia: J. L. Parsons, E. A. Henthorn.
Otter: J. J. Smith, Jas. Utt.
Liberty: Henry Colyer, J. H. Mounts.
Rock: Chas. H. Eagin, Frank Akers, Wm. J. Funk.
Creswell: A. Chamberlain, D. W. Cormic, Kendall Smith, Reuben Houghton.
Silver Creek: Harvey Smith, Mr. Peters.
Dexter: Jas. Harden, Fred Coger, John Wallace.
Cedar: W. A. Metcalf, Henry Thompson.
Pleasant Valley: Chas. Seacat, T. J. Harris.
Total: 56 delegates.
Respectfully submitted.
On motion the report was adopted.
The committee on permanent organization submitted the following report.
Mr. Chairman: Your committee on permanent organization and order of businessbeg leave to submit the following report.
For permanent chairman, J. B. Callison; for permanent secretary, Chas.H. Eagin; assistant secretary, R. A. Houghton. That the order of businessbe as follows.
1st. Selection of County Central Committee.
2nd. Nominations in the following order: Sheriff, Coroner, County Clerk,County Treasurer, Register of Deeds, County Surveyor, and County Commissioners.
3rd. That in balloting for each candidate the secretary shall call theroll and each delegate as his name is called will answer with the name ofthe person he desires to vote for.
W. H. Metcalf, A. A. Wiley, C. S. Smith, R. S. Strother, H. L. Barker.
On the question of the adoption of the report, a motion prevailed toadopt the order of business, excepting the selection of Central Committeeand the manner of voting for candidates.
It was then moved and carried that the selection of County Central Committeebe the last thing in the order of business, and that tellers be appointedto receive and count the votes for candidates in the regular way.
Nominations being next in order, a motion to take an informal ballotto bring out candidates for Sheriff was carried.
On the first ballot Leon Lippmann received 21 votes; A. T. Shenneman,16; Geo. Walker, 15; S. W. Chase, 4.
The balloting continued until the 24th ballot was reached, when the conventionadjourned for supper.
At 7 p.m. convention called to order and proceeded with the ballot forsheriff. At the 45th ballot S. W. Chase withdrew from the race. When the53rd ballot was reached, A. T. Shenneman withdrew in favor of Lippmann,followed by Geo. Walker.
A motion carried to suspend the rules and call the roll of the houseon the question of making Mr. Lippmann the nominee. The roll was calledand resulted in favor of Lippmann, who was declared nominated.
Nominations for Coroner being next in order, Dr. J. Headrick and Dr.W. G. Graham were nominated. The ballot for Coroner resulted as follows:Dr. Graham, 38; Headrick, 13. Graham was declared nominated.
Nominations for County Clerk being next in order L. J. Webb announcedthat M. G. Troup had withdrawn in favor of J. S. Hunt and moved the nominationof Hunt by acclamation. The motion prevailed and Hunt was so nominated.
Nominations for County Treasurer being next in order, T. R. Bryan havingno opposition was nominated by acclamation.
Next in order was Register of Deeds. Jacob Nixon received 5 votes, E.P. Kinne, 30, Chas. Irwin, 10, M. G. Roseberry, 4, I. S. Bonsall, 5. E.P. Kinne was declared nominated.
Next in order was County Surveyor. G. S. Manser and N. A. Haight werenominated. Manser received 5 votes, Haight, 44; result declared in favorof Haight.
On motion a county central committee consisting of one member from eachtownship was chosen by the delegates from the respective townships. Thefollowing gentlemen were selected:
Maple, W. B. Norman; Winfield, L. J. Webb; Ninnescah, H. Martin; Harvey,L. L. Newton; Spring Creek, J. B. Callison; Richland, N. J. Larkin; Vernon,P. M. Waite; Sheridan, B. Longshore; Tisdale, S. W. Chase; Silverdale, JohnTipton; Beaver, C. W. Roseberry; Windsor, S. M. Fall; Bolton, Reuben Bowers;Omnia, W. H. Gilliard; Otter, C. R. Miles; Liberty, Justus Fisher; Rock,Frank Akers; Creswell, C. R. Mitchell; Silver Creek, A. P. Brooks; Dexter,H. C. McDorman; Cedar, W. A. Metcalf; Pleasant Valley, T. J. Harris.
The following named gentlemen were nominated by the delegates from theirrespective districts as candidates for County Commissioners:
1st District: Geo. L. Gale.
2nd District: W. M. Sleeth.
3rd District: R. F. Burden.
On motion convention adjourned.
CHAS. H. EAGIN, Secretary.
R. A. HOUGHTON, Assistant Secretary.
Winfield Courier, October 4, 1877.
EDITOR COURIER: I observe in the Telegram a call for an independentcounty convention, signed "C. C. Black, Secretary," and purportingto be by order of some commit-tee. It is a well-known fact that Mr. Blackis secretary of the Democratic committee, but this call does not come fromthat source, else it would be signed by the chairman of that committee,J. Wade McDonald. Mr. Black has been absent for more than two weeks, andnever saw or even heard of this call to which his name appeared. I am informedby Mr. McDonald, the chairman of the Democratic central committee, thatthere is nothing Democratic about this independent call, but that it wasgotten up in the interest of a few sore-head Republicans. The last clauseof the call shows the source from which it emanates. Here it is:
"Come Democrats; come Republicans; come all who are dissatisfiedwith the Republican nominees and want to see a square fight."
Republicans read this, look at the Republican ticket. It is worthy ofyour hearty support. Let us not be misled by those who are "dissatisfied"with the nominees. If such men are to rule, we had better turn over theparty to them and let them run it. L. J. WEBB.
Winfield Courier, October 18, 1877.
J. Ex. Saint and lady, James Kelly and lady, and L. J. Webb have goneto Topeka to attend the Masonic Grand Lodge, or the horse fair, or to visittheir friends, we forget which. Hope A. B. will keep them out of mischief.
Winfield Courier, October 25, 1877.
EDITOR COURIER: I understand that Mr. Troup and his friends are circulatingthe report that he (Troup) was "sold out" in the Republican convention,and did not have a fair show. When it became apparent that George Walkercould not be nominated for Sheriff, I told Walker that there was nothingto be gained by prolonging the contest, and he authorized me to act forhim as I saw fit, and therefore I withdrew his name. When I did so, Mr.Troup came to me and wanted to know what it meant, and I told him what Ihad told Walker. He replied, "Why didn't you wait a little longer andgive me a chance to make some votes out of it?" I told him he was allright, and in no danger. He went away and shortly came back and said hewas not going to have his name go before the convention. I tried to dissuadehim from withdrawing. I told him he was already before the convention, andI believed he could be nominated. He said he could not, and authorized meto withdraw his name. He now charges Capt. Hunt's nomination to be a "trade,"when there is no foundation for it. He was dissatisfied because he was notnotified of Walker's intention of withdrawing, in order that he (Troup)might "trade" on it. These are the facts, and I only state themin justice to myself, and others of Mr. Troup's friends, who were anxiousto have him nominated, but are now charged with these things, to secureMr. Troup's election, against the regular nominee.
Winfield Courier, November 1, 1877.
HON. L. J. WEBB: Dear Sir: I notice in this week's Telegramthat it is claimed that my interests are not entirely in Cowley County,but rather in Butler. I will simply say to the voters of the first district,that I never owned a foot of land or property of any kind in Butler County.All the real estate I possess is located in this county. Yours truly, G.L. GALE.
The above from Mr. Gale, the Republican candidate for county commissionerfor the first district, fully answers the insinuation that he is a Butlerite.Mr. Gale is a Cowley County man and as deeply interested in the welfareof this county as any other citizen. He is a warm, but judicious railroadman, and has heartily supported both the Parsons and the Emporia roads.He will use all judicious and honorable means in his power to secure thebuilding of an east and west railroad through the center of the county,and another down the Walnut valley, in the shortest possible time, at thesame time saving the county all unnecessary expense. The fears that someexpress that he will be disposed to throw obstacles in the way of any railroadcompany proposing to build into this county are entirely groundless. Weconfidently expect his election, and the aid of his strong, good sense,and his active work, in securing such improvements as our county still needs.
Arkansas City Traveler, November 7, 1877.
L. J. Webb, M. G. Troup, Capt. Hunt, W. M. Allison, and J. P. Short,all attended the Republican meeting last Monday evening, at this place.Speeches were made by all the gentlemen except Mr. Short, and a generaltalk engaged in.
Winfield Courier, November 8, 1877.
PUBLISHED EVERY THURSDAY BY MILLINGTON & LEMMON.
WINFIELD, KAN., Oct. 22. Seven years ago next December, a party of emigrantscamped on the banks of the Walnut River, about twenty miles above its confluencewith the Arkansas, in a beautiful bend of the stream where a prairie abouttwo miles in extent lay environed by gently receding hills and a dense growthof forest bordering the river with a
stretching far way beyond, and pleasant breadths of sunshine. It wasnot only a place to camp, protected from the breath of the winter windsand convenient to wood and water, but it was worthy of a habitation formore than a day, and the emigrants took this view of it as they discussedtheir supper around the log fire.
By dark it was decided to locate a town, and half an hour later the partywas out laying off the streets, with the north star for a compass and alariat rope for a surveyor's chain. There was a preacher, a teacher, anda newspaper man--the invincible Trinity of Kansas--and they talked of theirpurposes and hopes as they drove the stakes and gave names to the streets.Here was to be reserved a lot for a church, there another for the publicschool, while on the principle thoroughfare was to be the newspaper office,and to designate the spot, the editor tied the dish rag on a resin weed.Late at night they returned to camp and "turned in" to dream ofthe metropolis of the Walnut Valley.
Today it has a population of fifteen hundred, and is much the best townof its size in the State. It has two banking houses with a capital and accumulatedprofits of $200,000, two excellent flouring mills that run day and nightthe year round, a score of stores that would do credit both in stocks andbusiness to Topeka, and two newspapers that are doing more to settle upthe county and increase its material wealth than all the other influencescombined.
It is a young Brooklyn for churches, and boasts the phenomenon of a ministerwho exacts every dollar of his salary from his parishioners, and then faithfullycovers it all back into the church treasury. The Methodist church sufferedthe loss of its spire during the gale a week ago, a damage that will requireone or two thousand dollars to repair. The ungodly of the town considerthis a judgment upon the sinful pride of the society for getting their weathervane several fathoms
than any other. The humility of these sinners is commendable.
This is one of the few towns in Kansas that manage to keep its streetscumbered with building material the year round. Since I was here in thesummer, two dozen houses have been built, and fifty are now under way. Theprinciple ones of the former are Lynn & Gillelen's two story cut stone,25 x 100 feet, and a brick hotel at the south end of town. Among the latter,as conspicuous and handsome as any will be, the elegant seven thousand dollarresidence of Mr. J. C. Fuller, President of the Winfield Bank. Mr. Fullerhas been here since 1870, established the first bank in the county, andhas large and valuable tracts of real estate adjoining the town. He hasrecently laid off a part of his land in an addition, and is selling somevery desirable residence plats. The other bank is that of M. L. Read, ofwhich M. L. Robinson is cashier and W. C. Robinson assistant. This bankhas been established five years, and occupies the first brick building inCowley County.
Both banks are doing a good business and have the entire confidence ofthe community. They are supplied with the celebrated "Yale Time"locks. The principal mill is that of C. A. Bliss & Co., who also haveone of the most extensive stores in town. Mr. Bliss is a Kansan of twenty-oneyears' residence and knows how it is himself. He is
I noticed thirty teams loaded with flour for the Cheyenne agency, IndianTerritory, at one of the mills.
There are half a dozen hotels in town representing all degrees of excellence,from the Central Hotel, creme de la creme, down to a twenty-fivecent hash foundry. Sid Major and Jim Vance are too well known as successfullandlords to lose a wink of sleep over any threatened competition in thistown.
The principal hardware dealer is S. H. Myton, who occupies a large two-storybrick block, and keeps an extensive stock of shelf and general hardware.
An exclusive boot and shoe house is that of W. C. Root & Co. Theleading clothiers are Boyer & Wallis, who can stop at any hotel in Saratoga.The most prominent real estate dealers are J. C. Fuller, E. C. Manning,and A. H. Green, and from a score of lawyers I select as the probable leadersof the profession here Hon. W. P. Hackney, Hon. L. J. Webb, the presentrepresentative from this district, Messrs. McDonald, Jennings & Buckman,and E. S. Torrance. Mr. Henry E. Asp is a young limb of the law, just admittedto practice in the district court, and gives promise of a successful career.
The Courier changed hands some time since, Hon. A. B. Lemmon,State Superintendent of Public Instruction, succeeding Mr. Manning, thepresent style of the firm being Millington & Lemmon.
This county has voted the desired aid to the Kansas City, Emporia &Southern railway, now being built between Emporia and Eureka; Winfield andArkansas City being designation points. This secures to these towns thebest lines of railroad for its length in Kansas, and happily terminatesone of the most unfortunate struggles that ever disturbed the welfare oftwo worthy towns.
It is not improbable that the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe road willbe extended down the valley from Eldorado, to divide the business with thenarrow gauge road, and thereby give this section competing lines withina year.
In view of these advantages, this county is receiving a large accessionto its population this fall, and before another twelve months all the governmentland will probably be taken up. JOE FLUFFER.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877. Editorial Page.
EDITOR COURIER: I desire through your column to make a statement personalto myself. Some hard things have been said of me during the campaign towhich I would reply that my friends may not be led astray. It has been saidin speeches that a certain person (meaning me) was electioneering on theday of the republican convention for a nomination as commissioner becausehe could be used as Winfield dictated.
A report has been circulated by Mr. Gale's friends that E. C.Manning had stated that I could be thus used. What the effect of these statementswas I neither know nor care, but I wish to say that I have never in anyofficial capacity done anything favoring Winfield against the interestsof other portions of the county, and those who have circulated such statementshave simply given currency to falsehoods.
Mr. McDermott says the commissioners are not thoughtful men to say theleast. He may admit that one of them at least is not so thoughtless, whenhe learns that he was not the first man to discover an error in the statementsubmitted by J. D. Pryor. I myself first discovered something wrong in regardto district number 26, in which district I was a taxpayer. I happen to knowwhat I was doing when I signed that card.
Now, Mr. Editor, you would like to make the people of Cowley County believethere was something wrong about the commissioners. You say that but forthe efficiency of the County Attorney, the county would have lost so muchmoney, and in another column you attempt to show dishonesty on the partof Mr. Troup and the board of commissioners in the matter of the duplicatetax roll.
It is a little strange that, lawyer as you are, you are not aware thatyou are getting your efficient County Attorney in a fix, as he is the legaladviser of the board who indorsed the claim "County liable." Ibelieve that better men than Messrs. Sleeth and Burden for com-missionersnever were or will be elected to that office in this county, and such stuffas the COURIER contained in relation to them is mere trash fabricated forelectioneering purposes.
As for myself, Messrs. Webb and McDermott with the COURIER man have fixedme out. Now, MR. COURIER, I have always been a republican, am now, and expectto remain so. Mr. McDermott deserves no credit in the Kager matter becauseI discovered an error first, and I think I should have called Mr. Troup'sattention to it just about as repeatedly as I did Mr. McDermott's for sixmonths after the mistake was discovered.
You are right about my signing Mr. Troup's card. I did it because I washis friend and believed I was stating the truth in his behalf--not becauseI was fighting Capt. Hunt, whom I have always considered a gentleman andmy friend.
The future will probably develop the motives for using my name in thiscampaign, while I was not a candidate. Before this reaches you the electionwill be over, so it cannot be said this is for electioneering purposes.My object is to let my friends have the truth and not be led into errorby false statements about the county board. Yours Respectfully,
[We publish the above because Mr. White feels hurt by some matter whichhas appeared in the COURIER, and desires to be heard in reply thereto. Thestrictures we made were in reply to a card which termed our remarks referredto therein "gross misrepresentations," which was signed by Mr.White, knowing that it was to be published for electioneering purposes.If in proving that we did not misrepresent, we had to hit him, he has noreason to complain. We shall stand by our statement of fact. However, hedid not accuse the commissioners of any official wrong, and we think withMr. White that they are as good men for the office as we ever had or mayexpect to have. We do not think Mr. White's statement of facts warrantshis conclusion that Mr. McDermott is not entitled to the credit of discoveringthe error in the account of district No. 5, and of causing the matter tobe pursued until the total sum named was discovered.]--ED.
Winfield Courier, November 15, 1877.
BIRTH. Another lawyer has come to town and yet there is "room inthe upper story." This time the newcomer entered the house of W. P.Hackney. He weighs seven pounds. We owe Webb one for selling out the editoron this occasion.
Winfield Courier, November 22, 1877.
Linus and Lovell Webb and W. C. Campbell, of this city, are at Ann Arbor,Michigan, in the law department of the university. A recent letter fromMr. Campbell to a gentleman in Topeka states that they are all well andlike the place and school very much.
Commonwealth.
Arkansas City Traveler, December 5, 1877.
The case of L. J. Webb vs. Sarah Requa occupied the whole of Tuesdayin court, in which he sued the defendant for a balance of $72 on his feesas attorney in the suit of Requa vs. Requa, for divorce and alimony, triedin 1876--she having paid him $429, or rather attorney of record, W. P. Hackney,paid him the $429 out of her means. In this case she put in the defensethat she did not employ him, but that she employed Hackney & McDonald,and that Hackney employed Webb to assist them, as he (Hackney) must of necessitybe absent to attend the Legislature at Topeka.
J. W. McDonald and Judge Coldwell were retained for the plaintiff, andTorrance for the defense.
The case went to the jury as the court adjourned for supper. What theverdict will be is not known as we go to press.
First time Jay Page and Leland J. Webb are linked together...
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
On last Tuesday morning, Messrs. L. J. Webb, Jay Page, Bert Crapster,and others whose names we have not learned, started for a grand hunt inthe Indian Territory. They will return next Saturday.
Winfield Courier, December 13, 1877.
Court convened on the 3rd inst., with an unusually small docket. Forty-threecases composed the term's work. The criminal business was exceedingly light,there being but two or three cases for trail.
The Negro horse thief, Chas. Williams, charged with grand larceny, pleadguilty, and was given the mildest punishment prescribed by law, one year'shard labor in the penitentiary. The jury was only used in two cases.
Among the most important cases were the following.
Green vs. Requa, in which Green sought to recover $71 as a balance dueon an account for legal services. The services were performed by L. J. Webb,and the account was assigned by Webb to Green. Mr. Webb had received $429and claimed there was still $71 due him. The jury gave verdict in favorof Mrs. Requa, but a motion was made for a new trial, which was granted,and the verdict was set aside.
The cases of Dawson vs. Funk and Dawson vs. Brown, involving the titleto about five acres of land, which Dawson claimed under a line, as he supposed,established by the government surveyor. Funk and Brown claimed the sameland under a survey made by the county surveyor, Walton, and denied thatthe corner claimed by Dawson was the government corner. The land in disputeis worth probably $50; the costs in both cases is approximately $500. Thecourt gave judgment in favor of Funk and Brown and established the lineon the Walton survey. It is quite probable the case will go to the supremecourt.
The case of Wilson vs. County Commissioners was brought for damages claimedby Wilson to be sustained from the fact that a road was laid out throughhis farm. The road viewers assessed Wilson's damages at $20, but the courtraised them to $640. Pretty dear road for the county.
The case of Newlin vs. R. L. Walker, sheriff, involved the question ofthe validity of an assignment made by A. A. Estlin to Newlin, as assignee,for the benefit of his creditors. Walker held part of the goods assignedunder an attachment. The court held the assignment good and gave judgmentin favor of Newlin. It will doubtless go to the supreme court.
The case of Tout vs. Headrick Adair was brought to recover back purchasemoney for land, sold by Headrick to Tout, on the ground the title had failed.Headrick had pre-empted the land as administrator for the benefit of theheirs and then sold it, under an order of the probate court for expensesof administration. The court held that the land belonged to the heirs andwas not subject to the claims for which it was sold and gave judgment againstHeadrick.
The case of Gross vs. Funk was a foreclosure suit. Gross had purchasedthe note before due, and a plea of usury was put in. The court held thatit makes no difference when a note is secured, whether it is assigned beforedue or not, so far as usury is concerned. Appealed to the supreme court.
Court adjourned on Saturday.
Jay Page mentioned in paper...
Winfield Courier, December 20, 1877.
Jay Page, a gentleman lately from Eldorado and Topeka, has purchasedthe lot between Wallis & Wallis' grocery house and Boyer's clothingstore on Main street in this city, and will immediately go to work puttingup a two-story brick business house thereon.
Winfield Courier, December 27, 1877.
At a stated communication of Adelphi Lodge, No. 110, A. F. & A. M.,held last week (Tuesday evening), the following officers were elected forthe ensuing year: M. G. Troup, W. M.; C. C. Black, S. W.; James McDermott,J. W.; B. F. Baldwin, Treas.; L. J. Webb, Sec.; J. S. Hunt, S. D.; J. WadeMcDonald, J. D.; W. G. Graham, Chaplain; Perry Hill, S. S.; J. H. Land,J. S.; S. E. Burger, Tyler.
Winfield Courier, January 24, 1878.
A report has reached us that L. J. Webb of this city has been appointedand confirmed as register of the land office at Wichita.
Winfield Courier, January 31, 1878.
J. Hoenscheidt is the architect employed by J. C. Fuller, M. L. Robinson,Jay Page, the Misses Aldrich, E. P. Hickok, C. Farringer, and others inthe erection of their new resi-dences. These residences will be built inmodern style, to combine symmetry and beauty with convenience and stability,and will cost from two to seven thousand dollars each; hence the proprietyof employing a first-class architect.
Winfield Courier, February 14, 1878.
We understand that a change will soon be made in the Registership ofthe Wichita Land office, and that Hon. L. J. Webb, of this city, is talkedof for the place. We think that as far as our neighbors at Wichita are concerned,they should be satisfied with having the location of the land office andthe Receivership, and we believe they are. Mr. Webb received the endorsem*ntof a large majority of the members of the state legislature, of most ofthe state officials, of the county officers of Cowley County, of many ofthe leading citizens of Winfield, and last but not least, of the republicanstate, district, and county central committees. The people of Cowley endorsehim and would be glad to see him appointed. In fact, in the distributionof federal appointments in Kansas, Cowley County has been overlooked, andit would be no more than right that she should have this one. Mr. Webb possessesall the qualifications necessary for the office and we hope our congressionaldelegation will urge his appointment.
Arkansas City Traveler, February 20, 1878.
We understand that a change will soon be made in the Registership ofthe Wichita Land Office, and that Hon. L. J. Webb, of this city, is talkedof for the place. We think that so far as our neighbors at Wichita are concerned,they should be satisfied with having the location of the land office andthe Receivership, and we believe they are. Mr. Webb received the endorsem*ntof a large majority of the members of the State Legislature, of most ofthe State officials, of the county officers of Cowley county, of many ofthe leading citizens of Winfield, and last but not least, of the Republicanstate, district, and county central committees. The people of Cowley endorsehim and would be glad to see him appointed. In fact, in the distributionof federal appointments in Kansas, Cowley County has been overlooked, andit would be no more than right that she should have this one. Mr. Webb possessesall the qualifications necessary for the office and we hope our congressionaldelegation will urge his appointment.
The above, taken from the Winfield Courier agrees withour sentiments exactly, and we think should be considered by our Representativesat Washington.
Winfield Courier, February 21, 1878.
The new stone building of Jay Page is rapidly nearing completion.
Winfield Courier, March 7, 1878.
Hon. L. J. Webb is endorsed by every newspaper in this county as theman for Register of the Wichita land office. A very large number of Wichitabusinessmen ask for his appointment.
Winfield Courier, March 21, 1878.
Hon. L. J. Webb is in Chautauqua County attending court.
Winfield Courier, April 11, 1878.
Ed. Walker, in a scuffle with Webb recently, got his shoulder badly broken.
Winfield Courier, April 11, 1878.
The front of Jay Page's new saloon is painted black, will be gold leafed,and will be the handsomest front in town.
Winfield Courier, April 25, 1878.
The City Council met Monday evening last and voted to grant licensesto three saloons on petitions of J. Likowski, J. Page, and James Var.
Winfield Courier, Thursday, April 25, 1878.
MILLINGTON & LEMMON, PUBLISHERS.
WINFIELD, KANSAS, APRIL 10. Winfield is the county seat of Cowley County.It is situated on the Walnut River, about fifteen miles from the south lineof the state. It contains a population of sixteen hundred people. It isone of the best and most prosperous towns in Kansas. The streets are crowdedwith teams, and the entire appearance of the place gives evidence of life,thrift, and prosperity. There are a large number of residences in processof erection, many of which are fine, commodious buildings, among which maybe mentioned the house of J. C. Fuller, banker, which, when completed, willbe one of the best in the county.
A large number of good business houses have been built since my lastvisit here, among which is the fine two-story store by W. H. H. Maris, andoccupied by the leading dry goods house of Winfield, Lynn & Gillelen.Also, a large, fine brick hotel, kept by Frank Williams; a large two-storybrick by E. C. Manning, who is building a fine public hall, with stores.There is a great demand for business rooms in Winfield, and money couldbe invested to a good advantage here in putting up buildings. There is aninexhaustible supply of the magnesian limestone, which is equally quarriedand which is admirably adapted to building purposes or for flagging. Thestreets of Winfield are being paved with this splendid stone, giving thema decidedly metropolitan air. Since my last visit two fine churches, theMethodist and Presbyterian, have been built.
The schoolhouse is a large, commodious two-story stone, and is occupiedby a corps of most excellent teachers. There are about three hundred andfifty pupils.
The society of Winfield is as good as can be found in towns of its populationin the East.
The business of Winfield is as good as in any town of its size in thestate. The businessmen are intelligent and enterprising. Most of them havelarge stocks of goods and are having a fine trade.
The leading dry goods house in the city is that of Lynn & Gillelen.
Boyer & Wallis have a fine stock of clothing; are selling at lowprices.
C. A. Bliss & Co. have a fine stock of dry goods, clothing, and groceries.Mr. Bliss is proprietor of one of the Winfield flouring mills.
A. A. Jackson is keeping an excellent restaurant.
There are three banks here, viz: M. L. Read's, Citizens' Bank, and J.C. Fuller.
Read's Bank is located in a fine two story brick. The gentlemen connectedwith it, including Mr. Read and the Robinsons, are genial gentlemen andsuccessful businessmen.
J. C. Fuller is the oldest banker in the county. He is prudent, safe,and responsible.
The Citizen's Bank was formerly located in Arkansas City, J. C. McMullenis President and A. Berkey cashier. It has about twenty-five farms for saleon long time and low rates.
The principal drug stores in Winfield are kept by Giles Bros. and T.K. Johnston.
B. M. Terrell, formerly of Wichita, is running a livery stable in connectionwith Ferguson at Wichita. He claims to have the best teams in the state,and offers passengers the same rates as the stage to any point from Wichitato Winfield.
Harter & Hill also run a first-class stable.
W. L. Mullen is one of the principal stock men in Cowley County.
H. S. Silver, with Brotherton, is doing a splendid business in agriculturalimplements.
There are a number of good lawyers in Winfield, among whom are Hackneyand McDonald, Senator A. J. Pyburn, and Webb & Black.
I am unable to write anything too complimentary of Cowley County. Itembraces the finest body of land in the west, containing about 800,000 acres.
The western one-third of the county is what is called first and secondbottom lands, being the location of the valleys of the Walnut and Arkansasrivers. Some picturesque mounds and bluffs appear and in places along thevicinity of the streams, but very little of the surface is unsuitable forcultivation. The central one-third is more rolling, being a succession ofgradual slopes forming the fertile valleys of numerous small streams ofwater, but is mostly first-class land for the production of corn and wheat.The eastern one-third is still more rolling, having very rich valley landsand high ridges. The flint hills extend along the east line of the county,but are intersected by many rich valleys, while the slopes are fertile andproduce abundant crops. This part of the county is especially fitted forstock raising, and many large herds of cattle are found there already.
The bottom lands of the county are considered the most valuable and usuallyproduce the heaviest crops, but the uplands have produced heavy crops ofcorn, wheat, and most other agricultural products; in fact, sometimes evenbetter than those of the rich bottom lands.
Land can be had here at prices quite as low as those at which the landin the distant west is selling, and one acre here is worth twice as muchas the same quality of land three hundred miles west of Kansas City. Partieswishing information on this subject should address A. H. Green, at Winfield,who is one of the most enterprising and reliable real estate dealers inthe West.
Curns & Manser are also heavy operators in real estate, being theoldest firm in the county.
The people of Cowley County are exceedingly anxious for a railroad connectionwith Kansas City. They have given up the narrow gauge project from Emporiaand have lost faith in the proposition for an East and West road. They arelooking to the most feasible road for them to secure. It is an air linefrom Kansas City through Burlington and Eureka to Winfield. I am informedthat the route is quite practicable and passes through a magnificent country.This enterprise should be agitated until it is completed to this point.
Winfield has received some very interesting additions to its societywithin the past month. S. M. F.
Winfield Courier, May 2, 1878.
Judge W. C. Webb, of Topeka, is here on a visit to his son, L. J., anddaughter, Mrs. R. L. Walker.
Winfield Courier, May 9, 1878.
Monday, May 6th, 10 o'clock a.m. His Honor, W. P. Campbell, on the bench.Present: C. L. Harter, sheriff; E. S. Bedilion, clerk; Jas. McDermott, prosecutingattorney; attorneys C. Coldwell, W. F. Hackney, Henry E. Asp, J. E. Allen,D. C. Beach, E. S. Torrance, J. M. Alexander, A. J. Pyburn, N. C. Coldwell,Jas. Christian, G. H. Buckman, S. D. Pryor, J. Wade McDonald, C. R. Mitchell,J. D. Pryor, C. C. Black, R. C. Story, L. J. Webb, W. M. Boyer, F. S. Jennings,and D. A. Millington.
The docket was called. The following cases were dismissed: Geo. Stewartvs. R. B. Waite, Jas. Renfro vs. M. J. Renfro, J. E. Cox vs. Mary J. Cox,State ex rel. Cessna vs. A. H. Thurman, Nancy McManus vs. John S. Harmon,Parker & Canfield vs. R. B. Scott, Margaret W. Vessels vs. T. J. Vessels,Houghton & McLaughlin vs. L. Maricle, S. P. Channel vs. L. Maricle,S. L. Brettun vs. Adam H. Beck, R. Crapster vs. Clara E. Houx et al, M.Harkins vs. Elizabeth C. Hunt, J. C. McMullen vs. P. F. Endicott et al.,S. L. Brettun vs. L. D. Darnall et al, T. H. Barrett vs. W. D. Mowry etal.
Judgment for plaintiff by default was ordered in the following: M. L.Read vs. R. Hudson et al, B. C. Cook vs. W. F. Worthington, S. L. Brettunvs. J. C. Groce et al, Lizzie M. Martin vs. Peter Paugh, J. C. McMullenvs. J. Morgan et al, L. G. Yoe et al vs. T. E. Gilleland, A. W. Hoyt vs.Israel Tipton et al, E. Howland vs. J. W. Pearson et al, A. F. Faris vs.Julia A. Deming et al, Hackney & McDonald vs. W. W. Andrews, Mary H.Buck vs. M. Luckey, Samuel Hoyt vs. J. B. Gassaway, Buck, McCouns et alvs. T. E. Gilleland, Geysecke, Meysenburg & Co. vs. T. E. Gilleland,Charles Barr vs. T. J. Raybell, A. P. Dickey vs. T. A. Wilkinson.
The following cases were continued: H. Schieffer vs. J. F. Berner, L.McMasters vs. Nathan Hughes, Mercy M. Funk vs. Cynthia Clark et al.
The following cases stand on demurrer: H. B. Kay et al vs. D. B. McAllister,J. H. Hill vs. Geneva Jackson et al, J. C. McMullen vs. Martha Bowers etal, Elizabeth Meyer vs. W. H. Brown et al.
Motion was made by to admit M. G. Troup as member of the bar. Court appointedG. H. Buckman, J. D. Pryor, and L. J. Webb a committee to examine the applicantand adjourned to half past one for the examination and to 8 o'clock on Tuesdaymorning for the further business of the court. In the afternoon the candidatewas examined and admitted.
Tuesday, May 7. State vs. Coon; dismissed and defendant discharged.
State vs. Samuel Huston; H. E. Asp appointed by the court attorney fordefendant.
State vs. N. Hostetler; defendant plead not guilty.
State vs. W. H. Bilson; defendant plead not guilty on both indictments.
H. B. Ray et al vs. D. B. McAllister; demurrer withdrawn and judgmentfor plaintiffs rendered.
J. C. McMullen vs. Martha Bowers, administratrix, et al.; F. S. Jenningsappointed guardian, ad litem, of minor heirs of Reuben Bowers.
Venire for additional jurors ordered yesterday returned served on D.A. Byers, H. C. Catlin, H. C. McDorman, Simeon Martin, W. W. Thomas, J.W. Miller, L. B. Stone, A. C. Davis, and W. S. Gilman; John Young, A. C.Winton, and Andrew Ross not found.
State vs. Nicholas Hostetler called and trial proceeded; Attorneys J.McDermott for State, E. S. Torrance and H. E. Asp for defendant. This caseoccupied the balance of the day and is not concluded. It is a case in whichan old man is charged with incest. The details of the evidence offered arenot fit for publication.
O. M. Seward is one of the Winfield attorneys in attendance on the court.Had we not omitted his name or some other in yesterday's report, we shouldhave made it too nearly correct for any use.
Winfield Courier, May 16, 1878.
Jay Page keeps the only ice in town and that's used only for "medicalpurposes."
[COMMUNICATION FROM "SILAS"--WINFIELD.]
Arkansas City Traveler, June 5, 1878.
Since the small pox epidemic, business has been rather quiet, and ourusually thronged streets have been nearly deserted in comparison with afew weeks ago when, of Saturdays, one could hardly get along main streetwithout elbowing through large crowds. But at present there is no alarmon account of the small pox, and business is renewing again.
The large area and the fine condition of the wheat crop caused many farmersto buy a great deal of farm machinery of all kinds. There have been moreharvesters sold this season than usual, and one can hardly imagine whereso many are taken.
M. L. Robinson's beautiful residence is nearly completed, and Col. McMullenis pushing the work on his palatial residence as fast as money and men willallow. When completed it will be one of the most beautiful and commodiousresidences in Southern Kansas.
About a month ago the city council licensed three saloons for one yearin this city. Jay Page at considerable cost had built a nice two story brick,and fitted up the lower room for a saloon, and furnished a suite of roomsabove for gambling rooms. He opened four weeks ago last Saturday; and sincethen no two saloons in the county ever did such a rushing business. It wasthronged from daylight to midnight, and frequently the gambling rooms werein full blast the entire night. It was the duty of the city council, whenthese facts were brought to their notice, to revoke the license; but theywinked at it and allowed it to continue. Last Saturday about 4 p.m., Hon.L. J. Webb walked from the gambling room into the bar room where Page wasstanding, and shot him dead, and immediately gave himself into the handsof the Sheriff, James Hill. There is good evidence that Webb had been druggedand in a game of poker had been robbed of his money by Page. A coroner'sjury was empaneled and found in their verdict that Page came to his deathby a pistol shot in the hands of lawyer Webb. The preliminary examinationwas set for trial today, before W. M. Boyer, but on account of the illnessof Mr. Webb, it will be heard tomorrow, Tuesday, at 9 o'clock a.m.
There is a very strong feeling here in the matter, and there are somethings in which all agree and that is that the city government should nothave allowed such a hell hole to exist so long here, and that Jay Page wasa notorious desperado and unsafe for any community, one who would not onlygamble, but deliberately picked men's pockets.
Page's funeral was preached Sunday by Rev. Rushbridge, and he was buriedimmediately afterwards.
Hon. L. J. Webb is in jail waiting until the preliminary examination.SILAS.
[SHOOTING AFFRAY AT WINFIELD: WEBB KILLS PAGE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, June 5, 1878.
One of the most unfortunate affairs that has occurred at Winfield formany years was the result of a quarrel between L. J. Webb, Representativeof the 88th Legislative District of this county, and Page, the saloon man,who recently erected the new brick saloon on Main street at that place.It seems that the two had been gambling, and that Mr. Webb lost about $100he had collected for his clients, and crazed with liquor, he walked intothe saloon and shot Page dead, the ball passing through his heart. The affaircaused terrible excitement and much regret. Mr. Webb is now in custody,and will be held to await his trial at the October term of the DistrictCourt.
Winfield Courier, June 6, 1878.
On last Saturday, June 1st, about four o'clock p.m., Jay Page, saloonkeeper of this place, was shot and killed by L. J. Webb, attorney, and memberof the House of Representatives of the State. Crowds of men immediatelyassembled around the scene of the transaction and great excitement prevailed.At the time of the shooting Mr. Page was standing against the counter ofhis saloon in conversation with Frank Manny, when Mr. Webb entered fromthe back room; and walking up to within about twelve feet of Mr. Page, drewa revolver from his pocket and fired--the ball entering Page's left breastabout five inches above the nipple. Page ran out the front door, blood gushingfrom his mouth and nostrils, crying that Webb had killed him. He ran alongthe sidewalk perhaps 100 feet and fell. He was taken up, bleeding from themouth profusely. He expired immediately. No word was spoken in the saloonby either Webb or Page. After firing the shot Webb turned to the counter,where he handed his pistol to J. L. M. Hill, deputy sheriff, and went outin custody of Hill.
Coroner W. G. Graham caused to be summoned before him by J. H. Finch,deputy sheriff, a coroner's jury, composed of W. Q. Mansfield, B. F. Baldwin,A. A. Jackson, H. Brotherton, A. E. Baird, and W. Gillelen. Frank Manny,Newton Ball, and Jesse Herndon, eye-witnesses to the transaction, were swornand testified to the facts as above stated.
The jury returned a verdict to the effect that Jay Page came to his deathby a shot from a pistol fired in the hands of L. J. Webb.
Jay Page came to this city from El Dorado in January last. He had formerlybeen in Topeka and cities further east. He was a young man of about thirtyyears of age, well formed, active, wiry, of good address and prepossessingappearance. He was a professional gambler, and is represented as havingbeen not only skillful as a gambler but unprincipled, daring, and reckless,one of the kind who are quick and handy with the pistol and have plentyof nerve to use it.
When Page came to this place, he set himself to building a large stonetwo-story building with brick open front. The building was completed aboutsix weeks ago, and is one of the large, substantial, and showy businesshouses of the city. It stands on the east side of Main Street, the fourthbuilding north of Ninth Avenue. The lower story front room, about 25 by50 feet, was occupied by Page as a billiard saloon, in which were a pooltable and a counter and bar at the back end, where liquors were sold bythe glass. Back of this was another room where card tables were kept. Theupper story was divided into several rooms, some of which are supposed tohave been occupied for gambling purposes. There have been rumors and surmisesfor several days past that green ones who have thought they were smart havebeen enticed into these rooms, where they lost their money; and now thereare many dark hints being thrown out of drugged liquor, cold decks, pistols,roping in, etc., which in the present excitement it is impossible eitherto verify or refute. We are told that others have attempted to shoot Pagebut have been prevented by friends. Page leaves a wife, who was in a delicatesituation, approaching confinement, and the effect of this blow may proveespecially serious to her.
L. J. Webb is a young man about thirty years old, a bright lawyer, havinga large practice and many friends. He had a few years ago habits of drinkingand gambling, amounting to almost uncontrollable passion. Within the lastthree years he has made efforts to reform, joining the church and the temperancesociety, and has abstained from these vices so far that he regained theconfidence of the people; and was in 1876 elected to the State Legislature,and has received of our citizens other marks of esteem and confidence. Sincethe Jay Page saloon as been opened, it seems that by some means he has beenlured from his good resolutions and habits into drinking in this saloonand into gambling again, and has been taking opium to steady his nerves.It is said that he was in one of the rooms of that building all the nightprevious, where Page got away with his money by unfair dealing, and silencedhim by a show of two pistols; that Webb left in a half demented condition,and under the influence of whiskey, drugs, and frenzy has perpetrated thehomicide as above stated.
Webb has a wife and two children, to whom this tragedy will be the mostterrible catastrophe.
The funeral of Page took place from the M. E. Church Sunday, June 2nd.
Webb was held over in jail to Monday for his preliminary examination.On Monday he was very low and weak; too ill to be moved, and his examinationwas postponed until his condition will permit of it. Dr. Davis, who is attendinghim, expresses the opinion that his mind was in a shattered condition.
[MORE ON THE KILLING AT WINFIELD: WEBB SHOOTING OF PAGE.]
Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.
On last Saturday, June 1st, about four o'clock p.m., Jay Page, saloonkeeper of this place, was shot and killed by L. J. Webb, attorney, and memberof the House of Representatives of the State. Crowds of men immediatelyassembled around the scene of the transaction and great excitement prevailed.At the time of the shooting Mr. Page was standing against the counter ofhis saloon in conversation with Frank Manny, when Webb entered from theback room and walking up to within about twelve feet of Mr. Page, drew arevolver from his pocket and fired, the ball entering Page's left breastabout five inches above the nipple.
Page ran out the front door, blood gushing from his mouth and nostrils,crying that Webb had killed him. He ran along the sidewalk perhaps 100 feetand fell. He was taken up, bleeding from the mouth profusely. He expiredimmediately. No word was spoken in the saloon by either Webb or Page. Afterfiring the shot Webb turned to the counter, where he handed his pistol toJ. L. M. Hill, deputy sheriff, and went out in custody of Hill.
Coroner W. G. Graham caused to be summoned before him by J. H. Finch,deputy sheriff, a coroner's jury, composed of W. Q. Mansfield, B. F. Baldwin,A. A. Jackson, H. Brotherton, A. E. Baird, and W. Gillelen.
Frank Manny, Newton Ball, and Jesse Herndon, eye witnesses to the transaction,were sworn and testified to the facts as above stated.
The jury returned a verdict to the effect that Jay Page came to his deathby a shot from a pistol fired in the hands of J. L. Webb.
Jay Page came to this city from El Dorado in January last. He had formerlybeen in Topeka and cities further east. He was a young man of about thirtyyears of age, well formed, active, wiry, of good address and prepossessingappearance. He was a professional gambler, and is represented as havingbeen not only skillful as a gambler but unprincipled, daring and reckless,one of the kind who are quick and handy with the pistol and have plentyof nerve to use it.
When Page came to this place he set himself to building a large stonetwo-story building with brick open front. The building was completed aboutsix weeks ago, and is one of the large, substantial, and showy businesshouses of the city. It stands on the east side of Main street, the fourthbuilding north of Ninth Avenue. The lower story front room, about 25 by50 feet, was occupied by Page as a billiard saloon, in which were a pooltable and a counter and bar at the back end where liquors were sold by theglass. Back of this was another room where card tables were kept.
The upper story was divided into several rooms, some of which are supposedto have been occupied for gambling purposes. There have been rumors andsurmises for several days past that green ones who thought they were smarthave been enticed into these rooms, where they lost their money; and nowthere are many dark hints being thrown out of drugged liquors, cold decks,pistols, roping in, etc., which in the present excitement it is impossibleeither to verify or refute. We are told that others have attempted to shootPage, but have been prevented by friends. Page leaves a wife, who is ina delicate situation, approaching confinement, and the effect of this blowmay prove especially serious to her.
L. J. Webb is a young man about thirty years old, a bright lawyer, havinga large practice and many friends. He had, a few years ago, habits of drinkingand gambling amounting to almost an uncontrollable passion. Within the lastthree years he has made efforts to reform, joining the church and the temperancesociety, and has abstained from these vices so far that he regained theconfidence of the people; was in 1876 elected to the State Legislature,and has received from our citizens other marks of esteem and confidence.
Since the Jay Page saloon has been opened, it seems that by some meanshe has been lured from his good resolutions and habits into drinking inthis saloon and into gambling again, and has been taking opium to steadyhis nerves. It is said that he was in one of the rooms of that buildingall the night previous, where Page got away with his money by unfair dealing,and silenced him by a show of two pistols; that Webb left in a half dementedcondition; and under the influence of whiskey, drugs, and frenzy, has perpetratedthe homicide as above stated.
Webb has a wife and two children, to whom this tragedy will be the mostterrible catastrophe.
The funeral of Page took place from the M. E. church Sunday, June 2nd.
Webb was held over in jail to Monday for his preliminary examination.On Monday he was very low and weak; too ill to be moved, and his examinationwas postponed until his condition will permit of it. Dr. Davis, who is attendinghim, expresses the opinion that his mind was in a shattered condition.
Arkansas City Traveler, June 12, 1878.
L. J. WEBB had his preliminary trial before Esquire Boyer last week,and was bound over to appear at the next term of the district court, inthe sum of $ . He is now in jail.
[EVIDENTLY TRAVELER DID NOT FIND OUT DOLLAR AMOUNT.]
Winfield Courier, June 13, 1878.
Various statements in relation to this affair have appeared in the newspapersor been told about the country which have no foundation in fact; but havegrown out of the surmises of excited men. Much interest and a desire tolearn the facts are manifested.
At the preliminary examination of Webb, the courtroom was well filled,largely with men from the country, and we consider it due to our readersto give them the exact facts as far as possible, and endeavored to do solast week.
We will state that we were not much acquainted with Page and were wellacquainted with Webb, feeling for him a personal friendship; but we do notintend that this fact shall color our statements.
Our statement last week that Webb had been taking opium to steady hisnerves was doubtless an error. It is denied, and we find no one who knowsthat he ever took opium.
The statement of the correspondent of the Traveler that Pagehad won from Webb $100, which Webb had collected for his clients, is inerror.
C. C. Black, Webb's law partner, says that Webb could not possibly havehad any money belonging to clients. The statement in some of the papersthat Webb had threatened to kill or revenge upon Page seems to be withoutfoundation. No evidence of threats or malice was offered, or was attemptedto be offered, at the examination.
If there is any evidence that Page had played cold decks on Webb, druggedhim, or drawn pistols on him, it was not produced at the examination. Thereare many other statements and rumors that cannot be taken as truth, at leastnot until the case is fully developed at the trial.
took place last week, June 5th and 6th. Capt. McDermott, for the state,evidently endeavored to do his whole duty in an honorable way. Judge Coldwell,E. S. Torrance, N. C. Coldwell, and Judge Webb, the prisoner's father, werepresent in the interest of Webb. The hearing was before Justice Boyer inthe courthouse. Four witnesses were examined on the part of the state. Thefollowing are all the material facts testified.
I have been tending bar for Page lately. On the first day of June I wasin Page's saloon. Mr. Page was there. I saw L. J. Webb there; saw him shootPage. Page was standing at the north end of the bar, front side, leaningagainst the bar talking to Frank Manny. Webb came into the room at the backdoor, walked to within about ten feet of Page, took his pistol out of hispocket, and pointed it towards Page. The pistol made a report and I sawthe smoke. Page put up his hand to his left breast and said: "See wherethe son of a b___h has shot me."
Page walked out of the front door. I did not see Webb do anything afterthat. He gave his pistol to Mr. Hill. I did not see Mr. Page anymore untilabout half an hour, when I saw him in the doctor's office dead. What I havedescribed transpired in Cowley County, Kansas, about 4 o'clock p.m., Saturday,June 1, 1878.
I have been in Page's employ about two months. Mr. Page sold whiskeyand wine and allowed gambling in his place of business. The room I havedescribed was the retail room. The gambling was carried on in the back roomon the same floor. There were other rooms for gambling upstairs, but theydid not gamble there. There might have been one or two gambling games upthere. The building was well constructed for gambling purposes.
I have known Webb nearly all the time I have been here; had seen himabout the building before. He was there the Friday evening before; cameafter supper and remained all night and next day until the shooting tookplace. He did not leave the house to my knowledge until the shooting. Hadhe left I think I would have known it. He was in the back room where theywere playing poker most of the time he was in the house. Page was engagedin the game. Page would frequently go from the gambling room to the barroom and help his customers to some of the good things he had there. Mr.Webb drank during the night and during the day. I think he took the lastdrink about thirty minutes before the shooting. During the time Webb wasthere he might have drunk more than thirty times. He was drinking all thetime. I waited on them during the time he was there. The game broke up aboutdaylight. Page did not play any after that. They all drank the same kindof liquor, not mixed liquor but whiskey; they call it bean whiskey. I tooksome peppermint to Webb once. I prepared all the liquor they drank thatnight except one round. Page gave them one round about midnight. I was mostof the time in the gaming room. Webb was playing all the time until 4 o'clock.Page then quit the game because there was no more money in it. He had gotit all. Webb continued drinking all day. I did not observe anything peculiarabout Webb when he came out at the time of the shooting. Do not know whetherPage had been in the gambling room that afternoon. If he was in there, Ido not know it. I had passed a drink through a hole in the wall into thegambling room to Webb about twenty minutes before the shooting.
Frank Manny testified to the circ*mstances of the shooting substantiallyas did Herndon, and said he saw Webb in the gambling room about ten minutesbefore the shooting playing cards with two other men; said Webb when hecame into the room looked as though he was mad; had his eyes wide open andlooked toward Page with a hard stare. Webb leveled his pistol so long atPage before firing that witness thought it was a joke intended to scaresomebody.
Newton Ball and H. A. Adams testified to the facts of the shooting substantiallyas Herndon had, and Dr. Mansfield testified to the surgical results. Nowitnesses were produced on behalf of the prisoner. His counsel evidentlypreferred not to disclose their line of defense.
The Justice ordered that Webb be committed to jail to await his trialat the September term of the district court. An application that he be admittedto bail was refused and the prisoner was returned to jail.
There is a wide difference of opinion in this community as to the meritsor demerits of this case and some feeling is exhibited. We do not proposeto state our opinions, but only to state the facts as they are developed.It is probable that much other evidence will be adduced at the trial, anduntil then we think all should avoid forming fixed opinions.
Winfield Courier, June 20, 1878.
Mrs. H. L. Page, of Milwaukee, mother of the late Jay Page, and Mr. H.Barber, Jr., of Chicago, a relative, arrived in Winfield last Saturday the17th. They are here to assist in settling up the estate of Mr. Page andnot to influence in any way the prosecution of Mr. Webb. We met Mr. Barberand were much pleased with his gentlemanly bearing and with the intelligence,candor, and soundness of the views he expressed.
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
The time to "shoo fly" has come.
Heavy rains did considerable damage and the clatter of reapers are heardno more. Some are stacking and some are threshing wheat.
Overcoats were in demand in harvest up to the time of the storm. Umbrellasin demand since.
Health is generally good. Farmers in good spirits, but a little dampened.
Corn, oats, fruit, and vegetables are doing well.
Miss Mary Pontious closes her school tomorrow. She is a good teacherand understands her business.
Floral Grange meets fourth Friday night in June.
Floral Cooperative Association meets Saturday, June 29th, at the store.Let every stockholder be present.
With few exceptions, it is thought to be a blessing to the county thatPage is gone. Such hells in our midst should be spotted. Let Cowley Countybe too unhealthy for them from this time hence.
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
The Rev. J. L. Rushbridge recently delivered a very able address, inwhich he vividly portrayed the evils that have resulted from the sale ofintoxicating drinks in Winfield, and criticized forcibly and severely theactions of citizens in relation thereto, some of which criticisms pointedunmistakably to particular individuals. . . .
. . . Before the election we were told that Jay Page would apply fora license and that he was a gambler. Otherwise, we knew little about him.We were not in favor of giving him a license; did not believe it possiblefor him to procure near enough names on a petition to entitle him to one,and did not believe he would be licensed. We refused to sign his petition.We knew afterward that he had procured a license and supposed he was sellingintoxicating drinks, but have never been to the saloon or building exceptto the city council room. We never heard it intimated that gambling wasdone there until after the shooting tragedy. Had we known that gamblingwas being carried on there, we should not have said so in the COURIER forthe purpose of being informed of where they can find a gambling hell orother disreputable place in which to gratify illicit passions they willbe disappointed. We can do better than to advertise such institutions gratisor for pay. The "unsuspecting" will be likely to know the placeshould they desire to indulge in gambling. Had we known of gambling there,it would have been our duty, instead of advertising it, to have made complaintbefore the proper magistrate that the parties might be arrested and punished.
We do not deem it the mission of our paper to charge officials with corruption,fraud, or anything else unless we have the proof that it is true, nor unlesswe can do it "with good motives for justifiable ends." . . . .Skipped the rest. It appears that Rushbridge really attacked city officials,the Telegram, Druggists, and also the Courier.
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
EDITOR COURIER: In reply to a communication in your columns last week,dated 17, 1878, and signed by the Committee on Saloon License, I have thisto say:
On the evening of the 15th of April Jos. Likowski and Jay Page presentedto the city council their petitions asking for dramshop license. On thatevening the committee on saloon licenses was appointed and those two petitionsreferred to it for examination. On the afternoon of the next day the committeeexamined those two petitions, and by the courtesy of that committee andat the request of the temperance committee, it was agreed that I shouldbe present at such examination. I was present, and expressed myself satisfiedwith the manner in which the examination was made; but the two petitionswere on the same evening referred by the council back to the parties whopresented them that they might procure additional names, and they were notagain presented until the evening of the 22nd day of April.
At this meeting of the council the petition of James Fahey for dramshoplicense was for the first time presented, and the temperance committee presenteda census of the competent petitioners residing within the corporate limitsof the city, taken by three of our citizens and sworn to by them to be correct,asking the committee to examine the petitions in connection with such census,stating that the petitions to be legal should be signed by a majority ofthe persons named in said census and requesting that if the committee foundany names on the petition who were in fact competent petitioners that theyadd them to the census, and thereby form a basis from which to determinewhether or not the petitions contained a majority of the competent petitionersof the city.
On the same evening the two petitions before examined, and the petitionof James Fahey for the first time presented, together with the census, wereagain referred to the committee. They took them and retired for privateconsultation, and in a very short time they returned to the council chamberand made their report favorable to the granting of the saloon licenses,which was accordingly done.
The petition of James Fahey was said to contain about 400 names; thecensus contained 769 names besides the additional names that had been procuredto the petitions of Page and Likowski.
I desire to make no comments, but the above is a true statement of thefacts.
Winfield Courier, June 27, 1878.
Cornelius Perry and wife to Oscar M. Godfrey, se. 11, 34, 3; 160 acres,$300.
Austin Corbin and wife to Moody Currier, sw, 20, 32, 4, 160 acres, $1.
Jeremiah Fowler to James S. Chase, s. ½ ne. 21, 31, 4; 80 acres,$600.
Elizabeth Green and husband to Wm. Wise, sw. 2, 30, 3; 160 acres, $1,500.
Thos. L. King and wife to Samuel H. Rupp, nw. 11, 33, 3; 160 acres, $1,600.
Andrew J. Friesdell and wife to Andrew J. Wells, w. of ne., w. of se.,e. of nw., e. of sw., 8, 33, 6, lots 7 and 8, in 4, 35, 3; 320 acres, $1,600.
Strong Pepper and wife to Wm. J. Conaway, nw., and part of ne., 35, 31,3; 157 acres, $2,000.
James Fitzgerald to P. S. and A. S. Riley, nw. 14, 31, 6; 160 acres,$500.
State to Thos. R. Carson, n. ½ nw. 23, 32, 5; 80 acres; se. ande., ½ sw. 16, 30, 5; 240 acres, $910.
Edward E. Deland and wife to Hattie E. Baker, w. ½ nw., 30, 30,6; 80 acres, $600.
E. S. Field and wife to Geo. M. Fenn, lots 17, 18, 25, 26, in 7, 30,8; 160 acres, $1,500.
J. H. Walker and wife to Wallace Buford, n. ½ se., sw. of se.,and se. of sw. 11, 31, 3; 160 acres, $200.
Mary Ettenborough to Jesse Hubbard, nw. 20, 32, 3; 160 acres, $500.
James Hubbard and wife to Jesse Craven, n. of nw. 20, 31, 3; 80 acres,$250.
A. L. Stanley and wife to T. S. Green, e. of n. w. 1, 31, 3; 80 acres,$125.
S. B. and C. W. Brewer to Thos B. Wright, n. of ne., 19, 32, 5; 80 acres,$502.
S. L. Brettun and wife to John C. Hansen, e. of nw., 5, 31, 3; 80 acres,$300.
J. C. McMullen and wife to Anna E. Raupe, se. 16, 35, 4; 160 acres, $570.
Lewis S. Shawtell to Emma J. Pepper, n. of sw. 3, 35, 3; 80 acres, $400.
Nat. H. Banks and wife to John W. Nichols, lot 18, block 112, Winfield,$200.
John W. Nichols and wife to Mary C. Banks, lot 18, block 112, Winfield,$200.
Alva Requa and wife to M. L. Read, et al., lot 9, block 145, Winfield,$75.
J. C. McMullen and wife to Samuel H. Baker, lot 11, block 66, ArkansasCity, $115.
Winfield Town Association to Charles H. McBride, lot 10, block 166, Winfield,$50.
Winfield Town Association to Wm. H. Green, lot 11, block 186, Winfield,$45.
M. G. Troup, county clerk, to Samuel Theaker, 14 lots in Arkansas Cityand 19 lots in Tisdale. Taxes.
Read, Robinson, and wives to Ernest L. Hazard, lot 4, block 93, Winfield,$60.
Winfield Town Company to B. F. and A. D. Sparr, lots 2 and 11, block68, Winfield, $60.
Winfield Town Association to Mary R. Martin, lot 7, block 111, Winfield,$100.
Winfield Town Association to James H. Nichols, lot 2, block 187, Winfield,$20.
C. L. Harter, sheriff to Jay Page, lot 9, block 128, Winfield, $475.
Susan J. Ford to Jay Page, lot 9, block 128, Winfield, $1.
First Baptist Church to Pamelia Kingsbury, lots 20, 21, and 22, Parsonageaddition, $100.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 3, 1878.
The New York Sun, in commenting on the recent unpleasantnessbetween L. J. Webb and the late Jay Page, tells it thusly: "Jay Pagecheated at his faro game in Winfield, Kansas, and was instantly killed byL. J. Webb, a member of the Legislature."
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
We would call attention to the dental card of Dr. Van Doren in this issue.He is one of the best dentists in the state, and skilled in the use of thenew celluloid material as well as gold and silver for plates. Give him acall.
PROFESSIONAL CARD.
DR. VAN DOREN,
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
Notice the new card of Mrs. Van Doren, dress maker. She has been practicingthe art of dress making in Lawrence for many years, where her reputationfor perfect fits is well known. She has S. T. Taylor's new system for dressfitting, which is considered complete.
MISCELLANEOUS CARDS [HER CARD FOUND IN NEXT ISSUE OF PAPER]
MRS. VAN DOREN'S
in the Page building, upstairs, Cutting and fitting by the system ofS. T. Taylor of New York City.
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
The call of the Republican State convention to meet at Topeka on the28th day of August recommends that the county central committee call a meetingfor the purpose of electing delegates to the state convention, to be heldon Wednesday, August 21. . . a district convention to choose delegates tobe held Saturday, August 10th, at the call of the central committee of thecounty.
The Republican County Central Committee is as follows:
C. R. Mitchell, Cresswell, Chairman.
Justus Fisher, Liberty, Secretary.
W. B. Norman, Maple.
L. J. Webb, Winfield.
H. H. Martin, Ninnescah.
L. L. Newton, Harvey.
J. B. Callison, Spring Creek.
N. J. Larkin, Richland.
P. M. Waite, Vernon.
M. Longshore, Sheridan.
S. W. Chase, Tisdale.
John Tipton, Silverdale.
C. W. Roseberry, Beaver.
S. M. Fall, Windsor.
Reuben Bowers, Bolton.
W. H. Gillard, Omnia.
C. R. Miles, Otter.
Frank Akers, Rock.
A. P. Brooks, Silver Creek.
H. C. McDorman, Dexter.
W. A. Metcalf, Cedar.
T. J. Harris, Pleasant Valley.
The following constitutes the Central Committee for the 88th representativedistrict:
B. F. Baldwin, Chairman.
S. S. Moore, Secretary.
R. C. Story.
H. H. Siverd.
Daniel Maher.
The following are the Central Committee for the 89th district:
J. A. Bryan, Chairman.
E. B. Kager.
S. M. Fall.
W. A. Metcalf.
SKIPPED MUCH OF THIS!
After the 28th of August when the state and congressional tickets arein the field, we shall have a convention to nominate candidates for countyofficers viz: Probate Judge, County Attorney, District clerk, and Commissionerfor the first district, besides appointing a County Central Committee, andthen we will be fairly in the field for work.
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
The case of L. J. Webb, committed on the charge of murder in the firstdegree and denied bail by Justice Boyer, has been reviewed by the supremecourt on a writ of habeas corpus, which was first presented July 3rd, anddecided the same day, to the effect that the testimony for the state onthe preliminary examination does not make a prima facie case which justifiesthe denial of bail to the defendant, and that the defendant be admittedto bail in the sum of $12,000. The bail was readily obtained and the defendantwas on last Saturday released from jail.
Unfortunately there is a bitterly partisan feeling in this city concerningthis case. Webb has very bitter enemies as well as warm friends, and thereare strenuous attempts to prejudge the case and convict him before his trial.Now this is all wrong. He is in the hands of the law and will be tried forhis life by a court and jury, therefore it is desirable that the communitybe entirely unprejudiced if possible. If an unprejudiced, intelligent jurycannot be had in this county, it will not be right to try him here. It isof the utmost importance that the jurymen who try this case shall have noopinion as to the guilt of the prisoner until after the evidence is givento them under the forms of law. All attempts that have been, or are being,made to set men's minds in the belief of the prisoner's guilt or his innocenceare culpable in the extreme, and we think it much more culpable to createprejudice against than for a prisoner.
It is a maxim of law that it is better that ten guilty men escape thanthat one innocent man should be sacrificed. We do not desire to shield theprisoner from the lawful and just punishment for his act, but we do desirethat his act shall be fairly tried and judged by unprejudiced men in accordancewith evidence that shall be legally placed before them by both prosecutionand defense.
We have been charged with unfairness on both sides in the accounts wehave given of this case in the COURIER. We do not believe we could possiblyhave been more fair and impartial while attempting to give all the news.We took special pains to state all the rumors on both sides as rumors, allthe well known facts on both sides as facts, and the evidence given underoath as evidence. We gave all the testimony that was offered and if eitherparty failed to offer any of its evidence, it is not our fault.
As the accounts we gave were largely made up of the evidence given beforethe coroner's jury and the examining magistrate, and as that evidence wasall given by witnesses examined on the part of the state and was supposedto be the case of the prosecution, they at least could ask no more, andif the defense concluded that it was better for them to withhold their evidenceso as not to disclose their defense, they have no reason to complain ofus if we have given only one side of the case.
We have called attention to the fact that certain rumors against Webbwere untrue and that certain rumors in his favor have not been sustainedby the evidence offered, and have taken great care to be as correct as possible.We admit that we have formed an opinion. We have our knowledge of Webb forthe last ten years, his habits, characteristics, and acts under variouscirc*mstances, and think we have as good a right to form an opinion as mostpeople, but we have not expressed it in our columns.
If Webb's enemies as well as friends will let the case rest where itis until court, quit talking about it, quit trying to make political capitalor any other capital out of it, peace may again reign in our midst.
Winfield Courier, July 11, 1878.
Mrs. Jay Page attempted to kill L. J. Webb on last Saturday evening.Webb had just been released from jail on bail, and in company with SheriffHarter, H. E. Asp, and R. L. Walker, was walking from the jail west towardMain Street along the sidewalk, and when passing the house of B. M. Terrell,Mrs. Page ran out of the back door with a large revolver in her hand andpassing along the west side of the house toward Webb, attempted to get arange on Webb to shoot him, at the same time using violent and threateninglanguage. Sheriff Harter and R. L. Walker were between Mrs. Page and Webb,and under their cover Webb ran and escaped. R. L. Walker made some remarkand Mrs. Page turned on and threatened him.
Since the death of Jay Page, Mrs. Page has been living in the familyof B. M. Terrell in the house on Ninth Avenue next east of the post office.The house is on the south side of the street, with front end so close tothe sidewalk that it is but one step between the sidewalk and the frontdoor.
I was in the front door of my house when Webb and others were approachingfrom the jail. Mrs. Page came to the door and attempted to pass out. I pulledher back by her dress, but did not observe that she had a pistol. She thenran out at the back door and up towards Webb, saying: "You killed Jaybecause he said you was a stinker. You are a stinker and I will kill you."She tried to get a chance to shoot Webb, but others were in the way andshe did not shoot. I never heard Mrs. Page make any threat or express anyill will against Webb before this, except that when someone told her thatWebb was to be let out of jail, she said that Webb could not walk the streetsand live while she was around. She had expressed sympathy for Webb's family.The pistol she had belonged to me. About two weeks ago I observed it wasgetting rusty and took it to John Easton to be cleaned up, where it remaineda week. I then brought it home and put it in a case under a bed. There werethree cartridges in it. Both my wife and Mrs. Page knew where it was kept.I think she was waiting and watching for Webb at the back door. She nowsays she intended to kill Webb and will do it yet if he runs around loosewhere she is.
When I went to the jail to release Webb, I passed B. M. Terrill's house.Mrs. Page was sitting on the front door-step with her feet on the sidewalkand Terrill was sitting in a chair just behind her in the house. When Ireturned with Webb, Terrill was sitting on the door-step with his feet onthe sidewalk and a woman was sitting behind him in the chair. I do not knowif it was Mrs. Page. As we came along the sidewalk, Webb was on the leftof me, the side next to Terrill's house. Just before we reached the door,I went to Webb's left side and walked between him and the door. I did thisto prevent a collision, which I thought possible. No woman attempted tocome out the front door; but as I appeared between Webb and the door, awoman rushed back through the house. I heard her retiring steps and thenoise of her dress distinctly. As we passed the northwest corner of thehouse, I saw Mrs. Page coming from the back door. I told Webb to "git,"and kept between him and Mrs. Page. She rushed up to within six or eightfeet of me with a revolver aimed at me. I threw up my arm and said, "Don'tshoot me." She called Webb a cowardly, dirty stinker, and talked inan excited manner, but I do not think she used other profane or vulgar language.Webb soon got out of her range, and R. L. Walker, who had been close behindus, said, "Don't." She said, "You are as bad as he is andI will fix you too if you interfere," or words to that effect. Walkerkept his arm up and moved rapidly away until we reached the post office,when she turned and went back into the house.
[NOTE: LAST PARAGRAPH SHOWS "TERRILL" RATHER THAN TERRELL.]
I intended to kill Webb and would have done so if I could have shot withouthitting someone else. I will do it yet if he does not keep out of my way.It was not right to have brought him past my door. I did say to him thathe was a stinker, but that was the only bad word I used. I did not say thoseother words they accuse me of saying. I did not threaten Walker; all I saidwas meant for Webb.
I was present and heard Mrs. Page say to R. L. Walker: "I know you,Dick Walker. You are as bad as any of them. I'll give it to you next. I'llfix you for your coffin."
Winfield Courier, July 18, 1878.
Sparr Bros. are about to move their stock of groceries into the Pagebuilding.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878.
BIRTH. MRS. PAGE, wife of the late Jay Page, gave birth to a daughterlast Friday afternoon, at Winfield.
Arkansas City Traveler, July 24, 1878.
We have been favored with a communication tending to excite an argumenton the case of Page and Webb, at Winfield. Now we do not desire to causeany more comment on this unfortunate affair, one way or the other. As itis, it will be difficult to obtain a jury in this county, because of thehigh feeling in the matter. In fact, we are inclined to believe that thereare not a dozen men in this county who have refrained from expressing anopinion on the case, which precludes their acting as jurors, and will necessitatea change of venue. We are not overburdened with sympathy for Mr. Webb, orfor Mr. Page either, but we prefer to discuss the affair after his trial.
Winfield Courier, July 25, 1878.
BIRTH. Born to Mrs. Jay Page, on the 18th inst., a daughter.
Winfield Courier, August 22, 1878.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the AugustA. D. 1878 term of the District Court of Cowley County, and have been placedon the Trial Docket in the following order.
State vs. Leland J. Webb. [James McDermott; E. S. Torrance, Coldwell& Coldwell.]
[DISTRICT COURT OF COWLEY COUNTY: TRIAL LIST.]
Arkansas City Traveler, August 28, 1878.
The following is a list of cases that will stand for trial at the AugustA. D. 1878 term of the District Court of Cowley County, and have been placedon the Trial Docket in the following order.
State vs. Leland J. Webb.
State vs. Daniel P. Faler.
State vs. John W. Blissard.
State vs. Louis Tournier.
Winfield Courier, August 29, 1878.
Met Monday morning, August 26th, 1878.
Present: Judge W. P. Campbell, Sheriff C. L. Harter, Clerk E. S. Bedilion,Attorneys McDermott, Torrance, C. Coldwell, N. C. Coldwell, Hackney, McDonald,Pryor, Pyburn, Allen, Jennings, Buckman, Black, Webb, Alexander, Beach,Troup, Jarvis, Asp, of Winfield; and Dennison, of Osage Mission.
State vs. L. J. Webb; motion for change of venue. Defense given untiltomorrow morning to file additional affidavits in support of the motion.
Winfield Courier, August 29, 1878.
Mrs. Jay Page left this city last Thursday to take up her residence withher late husband's friends in Milwaukee, Wis.
Winfield Courier, September 5, 1878.
State vs. L. J. Webb. Venue changed to Sedgwick County. Defendant boundover to appear in $12,000 and witnesses recognized to be in attendance.
Winfield Courier, September 5, 1878.
Notice is hereby given that the partnership formerly existing betweenthe undersigned, under the firm name of Webb & Black, has been dissolved,the time for which said partnership was formed having expired.
Mr. Black succeeds to the business of the firm, will carry on the same,and is authorized to collect all accounts due the firm. LELAND J. WEBB,CHAS. C. BLACK.
[DISTRICT COURT PROCEEDINGS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 11, 1878.
The following cases were tried before Judge Campbell during the termof court, up to September 5, 1878.
State vs. J. W. Blizzard, charged with burning wheat stacks; tried byjury; verdict guilty.
G. M. Bailey et al vs. Drury Warren. Judgments for plaintiffs, $822.72.
State vs. L. J. Webb, charged with murder in the first degree for theshooting of Page, the saloon man. Venue was changed to Sedgwick County.Defendant bound over to appear in $12,000, and witnesses recognized to bein attendance.
Louis Tournier, charged with illegal intercourse, or living with KateUmbell without being legally married, was discharged.
M. L. Read vs. S. C. Winton et al. Judgment for plaintiff $637.57 andforeclosure.
Frank Porter vs. E. W. Coulson. Continued.
M. T. Wells vs. T. E. Gilleland. Judgment for plaintiff, $62.25
Mary H. Buck vs. John Tipton et al. Judgment and foreclosure.
Same vs. D. J. Bright et al. Dismissed.
The suit of L. McMasters vs. N. Hughes, for malpractice, was continued.
J. C. McMullen vs. A. Carey et al. Dismissed.
James Brayley vs. J. C. Groce et al. Judgment for plaintiff, $452.90.
John Lazell vs. I. N. Ellsbury. Judgment for plaintiff and foreclosure.
M. Brettun vs. William Smith et al. Continued.
M. Harkins vs. C. Gallert. Judgment for plaintiff, $498.82. This wasa foreclosure suit on some timber land at the mouth of the Walnut, to repayborrowed money.
Nancy Bishop vs. E. B. Johnson. Petition in error; dismissed.
S. Schemerhorn vs. Strong Pepper et al. Judgment for plaintiff $408.87and foreclosure.
Lizzy Kelly vs. W. A. Kelly. Divorce granted.
C. C. Harris vs. J. B. Lynn. Continued.
M. L. Wilson vs. G. P. Wagner. Trial by jury. Verdict for plaintiff,$70.
State vs. C. M. Wood, charged with drunkenness in office, as Mayor ofWinfield, was dismissed.
W. B. Skinner vs. C. Walck et al. Judgment for plaintiff quieting title.
Elizabeth Myers vs. W. H. Brown. Judgment for plaintiff quieting title.This suit arose from the sale of land by an administrator, and the proceedingsnot being regular. Mrs. Myers recovers the land and W. H. Brown holds SamuelHoyt responsible for the title.
Mary Strickland vs. Henry Strickland. Divorce granted.
C. L. Flint vs. N. J. Cease. Plaintiff's title confirmed.
City of Winfield vs. Lynch. Dismissed.
A. A. Jackson vs. Winfield Town Company. Continued for service.
Philip Hedges vs. E. C. Hedges. Divorce granted.
Sarah E. Aldrich vs. J. A. Kerr et al. Judgment for plaintiff $258.66and foreclosure.
Mary Buck vs. John A. Tipton et al. Judgment for plaintiff $220.80 andforeclosure.
J. H. Hill et al vs. Geneva Jackson et al. Judgment for plaintiff forrecovery of real estate.
Winfield Courier, September 12, 1878.
State vs. L. J. Webb. Removed to Sedgwick County. Admitted to bail in$12,000.
The Wichita Eagle, Thursday, Sept. 12, 1878.
H. G. Webb, of Labette, arrived in the city Monday evening. He, too,is a legal adviser in the Webb-Page trial.
Stevens, the traveling correspondent of the Leavenworth Times, ison hand again. He always has something good to say of Wichita in his correspondence.
Dr. Davis and Dr. Rothrick, of Winfield, are witnesses in the Webb trial.
Miss Coldwell, the accomplished daughter of Judge Coldwell, of Winfield,is in the city with her father.
Allison, he of the Cowley County Telegram, came up Monday, andcan be found during court hours sitting at the reporters' table.
E. S. Bedilion, clerk of the court of Cowley County, is in taking notesof Sedgwick's clerk of this court.
Drs. Graham and Emmerson, of Winfield, are in the city attending thetrial as witnesses.
J. L. Hill, under sheriff of Cowley is courting also.
R. L. Walker, ex-sheriff of Cowley, is also attending the Webb trial.
Mr. Baldwin, one of the leading merchants of Winfield, is in the cityfor a few days.
Arkansas City Traveler, September 18, 1878.
The argument on Webb's trial began yesterday, at Wichita.
Winfield Courier, September 19, 1878. Front Page.
The attorneys retained for the defense in the Webb trial are Judge W.C. Webb, of Topeka, E. S. Torrance, Coldwell & Coldwell, and C. C. Black,of Winfield, H. G. Webb, of Oswego, James D. Snoddy, of Linn County, andSluss & Hatton, of this city. The attorneys for the prosecution areJames McDermott, the county attorney of Cowley County, assisted by W. E.Stanley, Sedgwick County's attorney.
The Wichita Eagle, Thursday, Sept. 19, 1878.
The trial of Leland J. Webb, charged with killing J. Page at Winfieldon the first day of last June, has been in progress at this place for tendays. The previous high standing of the accused and the fact of his honorableconnections conspired to render the case unusually interesting. The chargewas given to the jury Monday night in the presence of five hundred citizens.An hour and a half were taken in delivering the instructions, which aresaid to be very able and comprehensive. To hear the eminent counsel thecourt-room again all day yesterday and last night remained crowded. Thearguments were masterpieces of oratory and legal acumen. W. E. Stanley openedthe prosecution, followed by Judge Coldwell. Hon. James D. Snoddy spokethree hours next day in which he made a masterly summing of the evidence.Judge Webb closed for the defense, and Hon. James McDermott for the prosecution.The jury retired at ten o'clock and at this writing, Wednesday morning,had not returned their verdict.
P. S. The jury returned a verdict this 3 p.m., of "not guilty."
Winfield Courier, September 19, 1878.
The case was called on Monday morning, September 9th, on the openingof the court. Defendant made application for a continuance because of theabsence of Dr. Mendenhall, a material witness for the defense. The courtheld the showing sufficient, unless the State would admit the affidavitof defendant as the testimony of witness. The State consented and the casewas set for trial next morning.
All day Tuesday was spent in getting a jury. The special venire was soonexhausted and balance was made up of tradesmen. It is considered a goodjury, and both State and defendant are satisfied. Most of them are fromthe country.
Wednesday, Jas. McDermott opened the case on the part of the State. FrankManny, Jessie Herndon, Adams, and others were examined as witnesses. Therewere no new features developed on the part of the State. The testimony wassubstantially as on the preliminary examination. The killing was provedand some evidence tending to show expressions of previous malice was introduced.
Col. James D. Snoddy, of counsel for the defense, cross-examined FrankManny, and when he concluded, the witness left the stand in a rather shatteredcondition.
The evidence for the State was concluded Wednesday evening. During thenight session, Judge Coldwell stated the case for the defense. The theoryof the defense was insanity at the time of the shooting; that this insanitywas caused by excessive excitement, loss of sleep, excessive drinking, andnux vomica, opium, and other poisonous drugs administered to him in hisdrinks. In his youth defendant had suffered a severe fracture of the skull,the walls being permanently pressed upon the brain, wounding and laceratingit; and in time of great excitement he is peculiarly liable to insanity,that the place of the killing was a dead-fall of the worst type.
One of the most important witnesses for the defense was Jessie Herndon,the principal witness for the State. As is known, he was Page's barkeeperand knew all about how the business of the house was conducted. The defensehad endeavored to draw out this testimony on cross-examination but the courtwould not permit it, and he was put on as a witness for the defense. Hetestified as to all the occurrences of the night previous to the killingand made many important additions to his testimony. He said that Page deliberatelyrobbed Webb that night by means of cold decks and drugged whiskey; thatWebb drank often that night, and Page had instructed witness to give Webbliquor from a particular bottle he called "all sorts," which witnessdid; that twice during the night Page went into the bar-room and put someliquid from a small vial which he took from his pocket into a tumbler ofwhiskey and instructed witness to give it to Webb the next time he calledfor drink, which witness did; that this bottle of "all sorts"was a villainous compound of whiskey and drugs, which Page kept for theexpress purpose of giving to men with whom he was gaming; that shortly beforethe conclusion of the game, and after Webb had drunk the whiskey preparedby Page, Page went into the bar-room and stacked a deck of cards, and instructedwitness the next time drinks were called for to bring this pack under thewater or server, and while Webb was engaged in drinking to leave them underthe server on the table, which witness did, and then Page dealt from thiscold deck, giving Webb a full hand and himself a better hand, on which hewon all Webb's money, and this concluded the game. Witness testified tosome expressions of anger made by Webb to Page upon the conclusion of thegame, saying he was robbed, but to no expressions of malice or threats ofrevenge. All the parties to the game remained an hour or more after itsconclusion, Webb drinking frequently; then all left except Webb, who remainedalone with witness. Webb never left the saloon from that time to the timeof the shooting. Witness testified as to Webb's condition and appearanceduring the day; said he looked very wild and had a jerking movement abouthis head, neck, and shoulders, was convulsive, and breathed hard. Witnesstestified that after the preliminary examination he went with By Terrilland Frank Manny to the saloon to make an examination for drugs. They washedout several empty bottles and one bottle that contained something that Pagehad used to put in liquor; what it was he did not know. When they emptiedit out and washed the bottle, he told Terrill and Manny that it was notright. He testified that certain vials and small bottles shown him lookedlike those which Page had used to fix up liquors with.
This witness suffered considerably in the hands of W. E. Stanley, attorneyfor State, on cross-examination. His attention was called to statementshe had made before Justice Boyer at the preliminary examination in directcontradiction to his present statements. These contra-dictions witness explainedby saying he had been advised by certain friends of Page that if he toldanything he knew about these transactions in the saloon they would let Webbgo and send witness up; that from those threats and the general excitementhe was afraid to tell all he knew about that saloon.
Further testimony for the defense from Burt Covert, G. L. Walker, JamesFahey, P. Hill, A. H. Green, R. F. Baldwin, Ed. Bedilion, and Dr. W. R.Davis corroborated Herndon in relation to the wild and insane appearance,the convulsive twitching movements of the throat, head, and shoulders ofthe defendant immediately before and subsequent to the shooting; also showedthe finding of some small bottles and vials in the counter used by Pagein his saloon; that these vials were taken from the counter sometime afterthe shooting and preserved with their contents and are the same that arenow exhibited in court; and the testimony of Drs. Davis, Rothrock, and Furleyshowed that these vials contained opium, nux vomica, and India hemp, andthat these compounded and administered would produce the symptoms describedin the defendant and would produce insanity.
The jury than examined the indentation which is apparent on defendant'shead. From inspection it appeared that a considerable portion of the skullhad been formerly removed, and that the left side of the skull is pressedin upon the brain.
The medical gentlemen testified that such is a frequent cause of insanity,and that any person thus afflicted was extremely liable to mental derangementor insanity in any unusual excitement, or the excessive use of intoxicatingliquors, or of such drugs as had been found in the vials.
Thursday, Friday, and a part of Saturday were occupied with the testimonyfor the defense. Rebutting testimony was then offered by both State anddefense but was of little importance. The testimony in many important pointswas conflicting.
On Saturday evening the evidence was all in and the court adjourned toMonday morning, when the court will give his charge to the jury and thearguments of counsel will be heard.
On Monday morning, the 16th, the Judge gave his charge to the jury, andwas followed by W. E. Stanley in the opening argument for the State. Stanleyscored the defendant and many of the witnesses for the defense fearfullyand evidently with great effect. His plea was long and pronounced to havebeen brilliant to a high degree. He was followed by Judge Coldwell for thedefense. This is the latest news we get as we go to press.
The Commonwealth, Thursday Morning, September 19, 1878. [TopekaPaper]
The news reached Topeka, yesterday afternoon that Leland J. Webb, whowas on trial, for the shooting of Jay Page, had been acquitted. Judge Webb,the young man's father, received the congratulations of all who heard ofit.
The Commonwealth, Thursday morning, September 20, 1878.
Personal. Judge C. Coldwell, of Winfield, is at theTefft House, and will remain several days.
[WEBB ACQUITTED.]
Arkansas City Traveler, September 25, 1878.
The Webb trial is over and Mr. Webb has returned home a free man. Theevidence was all in by Saturday night last, the Court read his charge forthe jury. At nine o'clock Monday evening the argument was opened for theprosecution by Mr. Stanley, of Wichita, who was followed by Judge Coldwellof this city, for the defense. The judge was followed by Col. Snoddy ofLa Cygne and Judge H. C. Webb, of Oswego. Jas. McDermott closed for thestate, and the case was submitted to the jury on Tuesday evening at twoo'clock. On Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 they returned a verdict of "notguilty," which makes Mr. Webb a free man.
Owing to the large volume of evidence taken in the case, we are unableto give it to our readers this week, but will devote most of our space nextweek to giving it and the charge to the jury by the Court. We congratulateMr. Webb and his family upon his acquittal. Telegram.
The Wichita Eagle, Thursday, Sept. 29, 1878.
The Webb case consumed so much of the time of the late session of theDistrict Court, that, at the adjournment, Saturday morning, the docket hadnot been noticeably curtailed. The same unsatisfactory result of affairsresulted last spring from the small pox scare, so that now it would takethree weeks of steady sitting to clear the records.
After the Webb case had been dismissed of the criminal cases alone weretaken up.
Wm. Lillie was found guilty and sentenced to three years for three yearsfor undoubtedly conveying to his own use $100 belonging to "Swede Mollie,"a woman of the town. He had accepted the money of her with which to purchasea lot or obtain a deed therefor, but before discharging his trust, he didgo on a drunk and either lost or made way with the money. He claimed thathe had been robbed. but the evidence did not corroborate the story. Lilliecame to Wichita over a year ago and opened up a billiard hall in the Occidental,and had, until lately, demeaned himself quite civilly. When arrested hewas working in Mr. Stackman's tailor shop. His attorney, H. G. Ruggles,felt aggrieved at the verdict of the jury.
C. Myers was also sentenced to the penitentiary for three years. He wasfound guilty of horse stealing. He had borrowed the horse for two hoursto go out to the Cowskin, but mistaking the road to that divided streamhe headed for Arkansas City, where he sold the horse. Myers is the ownerof a very seedy phiz in every lineament of which is written indelibly treacheryand untruthfulness, The penitentiary is the proper place for him and allhis kind.
Judge Campbell is holding court this week in Butler County.
[Note from MAW...This was one of the worst microfilmed newspapersI have seen in a long time. Almost impossible to read! Hard to believe thatthe Murdock who ran the Walnut Valley Times ended up with brother in Wichitaand did such a horrible job with a newspaper...but they did. I did not botherto try and garner more information about Cowley County and events in thattime frame. 8/4/99]
Next item came from book at Cherokee Strip Museum, Arkansas City...
The Courier and Arkansas City Traveler have both saidsome good words for the gentleman whose name heads this article, and arepressing his claims for the position of Register of the Wichita Land Office.We, too, unite with them in saying that Mr. Webb's appointment would giveentire satisfaction to our people. He is capable, energetic, and entirelyworthy of the appointment. We hope that the Kansas delegation will see thathe is appointed.--Telegram. [Someone added: 27 Feb 1878.]
Here is an endorsem*nt of every journal of the county, regardless ofthe county, regardless of politics, and one of the best recommendationsany man has had from this section. [Newspaper that printed the above isnot given.]
[KANSAS NEWS.]
Arkansas City Traveler, October 2, 1878. Front Page.
We are informed that at the suggestion of Acting-Mayor Wood, card tableshave been abolished from the saloons of the city.
Winfield Courier, October 3, 1878.
L. J. Webb has rented the front rooms in Bahntge's new building for hislaw office, and until they are completed, he is stopping temporarily inJudge Coldwell's office.
Winfield Courier, October 10, 1878.
City Council met in council chamber Monday evening, October 7, 1878.Present: J. B. Lynn, mayor, and Councilmen Gulley, Manning, Robinson, andWood; N. C. Coldwell, city attorney; and J. P. Short, clerk.
A committee of three, consisting of Messrs. Wood, Robinson, and Manning,was appointed to confer with the Board of County Commissioners in relationto deeding the county jail building and the county purchasing balance ofblock on which the courthouse stands and improving the same.
The following bills were allowed:
Walck & Co., for laying cross-walks: $37.90
Harter & Speed, livery: $8.40
J. F. Short, city clerk: $5.00
Ed. Nicholson, special police: $5.00
John Weatherspoon, special police: $5.00
Maggie E. Page, office rent: $30.00
E. S. Bedilion, District Clerk's fees: $3.00
On motion, Council adjourned. J. B. LYNN, Mayor.
Attest: J. P. SHORT, City Clerk.
NOTE: I SEARCHED SOME PREVIOUS ISSUES OF COURIER TO SEE IF RESULTSOF WEBB TRIAL IN WICHITA WOULD BE PRINTED...NOTHING FOUND! EVIDENTLY COURIERDECIDED TO FORGET IT WHEN WEBB WAS ACQUITTED AND RETURNED TO WINFIELD TOPRACTICE!
Winfield Courier, October 17, 1878.
We would call attention to the law card of Pyburn & Boyer in thispaper. They are gentlemen of much experience in the law and can be reliedupon for honor and strict attention to the interests of their clients.
AD: A. J. PYBURN. W. M. BOYER.
ATTORNEYS AT LAW, Winfield, Kansas. Office in Page building.
Winfield Courier, November 7, 1878.
DIED. On Wednesday morning, November 6th, of membranous croup, Herman,youngest child of Leland J. and Helen Webb, aged 4 years. The afflictedparents have the sympathy of the entire community in the loss of their beautifulchild.
[ATTORNEYS' CARDS.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, November 14, 1878. Front page.
CHAS. C. BLACK, ATTORNEY AT LAW. Office west side Main street, upstairs,between 8th and 9th Avenue, Winfield, Kansas.
LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW, WINFIELD, KANSAS.
ADDRESS NOT GIVEN.
Winfield Courier, November 21, 1878.
L. J. Webb has fitted up Room No. 1 of Bahntge's new brick for a lawoffice.
Winfield Courier, December 5, 1878.
Judge Campbell came down from Wichita on Monday and the session of courtcommenced.
Present: His Honor Judge W. P. Campbell; C. L. Harter, sheriff; E. S.Bedilion, district clerk; J. McDermott, county attorney; and Messrs. J.E. Allen, C. C. Black, S. D. Pryor, A. J. Pyburn, J. M. Alexander, F. S.Jennings, C. R. Mitchell, L. J. Webb, E. S. Torrance, N. C. Coldwell, W.M. Boyer, W. P. Hackney, O. M. Seward, C. H. Payson, H. E. Asp, G. H. Buckman,J. D. Pryor, D. C. Beach, W. M. Boyer, C. Coldwell, M. G. Troup, S. M. Jarvis,A. H. Green, attorneys.
Winfield Courier, December 26, 1878.
Council met in council chamber.
Present: J. R. Lynn, mayor; and Councilmen Gully, Manning and Wood; Absent,T. C. Robinson.
Minutes of previous meeting read and adopted.
The matter of the sidewalk on Tenth avenue was discussed, but no actiontaken.
The following resolution was introduced, read, and unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That that portion of the southeast quarter of section 28, township32 south, of range 4 east, known, platted, and filed for record as Fuller'ssecond addition to the city of Winfield be, and the same is hereby declaredto be within the incorporated limits of the city of Winfield.
Action was taken on the following bills, which were allowed.
H. Jochems, merchandise: $6.65
C. C. Stevens, city marshal: $40.00
Walck & Smiley, well rock, etc.: $6.50
Maggie E. Page, rent: $10.00
Levi Seabridge, repairing well curb: $1.50
Max Shoeb, repairs on engines, etc., $16.40, referred to finance committee.
There being no further business, Council adjourned. J. B. LYNN, Mayor.
Attest: J. P. SHORT, City Clerk.
[LIST OF NEW BUILDINGS ERECTED SINCE 1/1/1878.]
Winfield Courier, Thursday, January 2, 1879.
The following is a list of new buildings erected in the city of Winfieldsince January 1, 1878, with the name of owner and cost of building.
E. C. Manning, opera house, brick: $10,000.
J. C. McMullen, residence, brick: $13,000.
J. Page, store room, brick: $3,000.
J. C. Fuller, residence, brick: $10,000.
M. L. Robinson, residence, cut stone: $15,000.
J. M. Alexander, office, brick: $500.
Jas. Fahey, residence, frame: $800.00.
Frank Williams, residence, frame: $600.
John Moffitt, residence, frame: $400.
John Moffitt, office, frame: $200.00.
R. D. Jillson, store room, frame: $1,200.
Bahntge Bros., store room, brick: $7,000.
Nommsen & Steuven, barber shop, brick: $300.
Johnston & Hill, store room, brick: $2,500.
Dr. Mendenhall, residence, office, and barn: $2,500.
L. H. Hope, store room: $300.
J. M. Spencer, hotel, frame: $1,800.
B. M. Terrell, two residences, frame: $1,200.
Holmes & Bro., packing house, frame, 2 stories: $500.
D. D. Miller, blacksmith soft pine frame: $250.
N. M. Powers, barn, frame: $200.
W. L. Mullen, residence, frame: $500.
Clark & Dysart, machines p s ne: $1,800.
August Kadau, shoe shop, frame: $200.
J. Simpson, residence, brick: $900.
J. Simpson, residence, frame: $500.
W. D. Clark, residence, frame: $1,200.
D. F. Best, residence, frame: $700.
Lucinda Herrington, residence, frame: $250.
B. H. Lane, residence, frame: $300.
E. S. Bedilion, residence, frame: $300.
G. W. Sanderson, residence, frame: $200.
L. Browder, residence, frame: $200.
Mrs. Duncan, residence, frame: $150.
Geo. Bosworth, residence, frame: $100.
D. Layco*ck, residence, frame: $350.
Geo. Olive, residence, frame: $150.
J. O'Neil, residence, frame: $600.
Sarah Bishop, residence, frame: $100.
Wm. Robinson, residence, frame: $600.
U. E. Newall, residence, frame: $150.
W. A. Lee, residence, frame: $500.
Wm. Moher, residence, frame: $350.
O. Smith, residence, frame: $200.
J. Harrington, addition: $100.
T. Wright, house and barn, frame: $150.
W. R. Hybarger, residence, frame: $450.
W. Clark, residence, frame: $250.
S. Mullen, residence, frame: $350.
John Snyder, residence, frame: $350.
John Snyder, residence, frame: $300.
A. Hughes, residence, frame: $450.
Jos. Goddard, residence, frame: $250.
H. C. Cutler, residence, frame: $150.
D. Siefferd, residence, frame: $150.
S. Childs, residence, frame: $150.
E. G. Burnett, residence, frame: $500.
Mr. Thorp, residence, frame: $350.
Thos. Nicholson, residence, frame: $250.
Jerry Evans, residence, frame: $650.
Dr. Davis, two residences, frame: $650.
Mrs. Rust, residence, frame: $150.
Mrs. Floyd, residence, frame: $300.
E. L. Hazard, residence, frame: $350.
J. P. Short, residence, frame: $500.
J. P. Short, residence, stone: $400.
J. P. Short, residence, stone: $400.
Wm. Kelly, shoe shop, frame: $100.
Dr. Graham, residence, brick: $650.
Jas. Fahey, saloon, brick: $2,500.
Foults Bros., barber shop, frame: $200.
Wm. G. Hill, residence, frame: $850.
Ed. Weitzel, residence, frame: $200.
P. Stump, store, stone: $2,000.
G. H. Crippen, residence, brick: $600.
Baptist church, parsonage, frame: $850.
Jas. Kelly, store, frame: $450.
Geo. Martin, residence, frame: $500.
Mr. Wilson, residence, frame: $300.
Mr. Wilson, residence, frame: $200.
E. P. Kinne, residence, frame: $1,300.
Curns & Manser, residence, frame: $1,600.
W. P. Hackney, residence, frame: $1,200.
Wm. Bousman, residence, frame: $250.
A. H. Caywood, residence, frame: $200.
J. C. McMullen, barn, frame: $450.
J. Curns, residence, frame: $400.
J. Curns, residence, frame: $400.
J. H. Miller, blacksmith shop, stone: $400.
Henry Shaver, residence, frame: $250.
Henry Clausen, residence, frame: $100.
Henry Schoeffer, residence, frame: $250.
John Johnson, residence, frame: $200.
J. Boylan, residence, frame: $150.
W. W. Green, residence, frame: $350.
F. M. Friend, residence, frame: $450.
Mr. Charles, residence, frame: $250.
Mrs. Bodoft, residence, frame: $100.
Frank Gallotti, residence, frame: $650.
J. McBride, residence, frame: $350.
R. R. Stout, residence, frame: $200.
G. B. Roland, residence, frame: $100.
Mrs. Jenkins, residence, frame: $400.
Mrs. E. B. Read, residence, frame: $150.
R. R. Stout, barn, frame: $100.
W. McGraw, residence, frame: $550.
A. Requa, residence, frame: $400.
Wm. Kelly, Jr., residence, frame: $200.
Rev. Bigby, residence, frame: $100.
N. M. Powers, residence, frame: $300.
Jas. L. Allen, residence, frame: $1,000.
Jas. L. Allen, residence, frame: $500.
H. S. Silver, residence, frame: $1,300.
S. B. Brewer, residence, frame: $550.
E. P. Hickok, residence, stone: $900.
G. M. Miller, residence, frame: $700.
E. Werton, residence, frame: $150.
J. D. McGinnis, residence, frame: $150.
Wm. Hudson, residence, frame: $450.
J. R. Cochran, residence, frame: $200.
J. H. Foults, residence, frame: $250.
____ Kelly, residence, frame: $550.
Johnson & Hill, residence, frame: $200.
Mary Beale, residence, frame: $300.
C. G. Martin, residence, frame: $300.
Dr. Cooper, residence, frame: $550.
J. H. Fahnestock, residence, frame: $200.
J. H. Fahnestock, residence, frame: $450.
Lafayette Cady, residence, frame: $350.
J. F. Chamberlain, residence, frame: $150.
Frank S. Jennings, residence, frame: $650.
George Moore, residence, frame: $450.
J. S. Chase, residence, frame: $400.
Thomas Toole, residence, frame: $400.
N. C. Millhouse, residence, frame: $450.
Gus. Lilly, residence, frame: $200.
E. Donahoo, residence, frame: $200.
R. E. Stockwell, bowling alley, frame: $1,000.
F. S. Jennings, residence, frame: $1,100.
J. H. Olds, residence, frame: $1,400.
T. A. Wilkinson, residence, frame: $550.
C. C. Stevens, residence, frame: $450.
B. M. Legg, residence, frame: $450.
A. J. Pyburn, addition: $150.
J. Bachelder, residence, frame: $650.
Miss Aldrich, residence, frame: $2,000.
Mrs. Martha Tucker, residence, frame: $650.
Andy Gordon, residence, frame: $200.
Mr. Dion, residence, frame: $400.
M. L. Bangs, addition: $100.
T. A. Wilkinson, lumber office: $350.
John Hoenscheidt, residence, brick: $2,200.
John Hoenscheidt, residence, brick: $280.
D. F. Long, residence, frame: $380.
W. Gillelen, residence, brick: $2,200.
C. S. Shue, residence, frame: $1,100.
C. S. Shue, residence, frame: $550.
McGuire & Neal, livery stable, frame: $450.
J. Hodges, residence, frame: $1,000.
Frank Manny, brewery and ice house, stone: $13,000.
Samuel Lindsey, residence, frame: $350.
Samuel Lindsey, residence, frame: $550.
Samuel Lindsey, residence, frame: $1,100.
Lynn & Gillelen, store room, stone granary, frame: $250.
Herman Jochems, residence, brick: $3,000.
B. F. Baldwin, residence, frame: $550.
O. Berkey, residence, frame: $550.
S. L. Hyde, residence, frame: $600.
R. Tegard, residence, frame: $250.
Schoolhouse, frame: $1,600.
Robert Allison, residence, frame: $700.
E. E. Bacon, residence, frame: $750.
John Foults, residence, frame: $200.
Sparr Bros., residence, frame: $600.
J. L. Rusbridge, residence, frame: $300. [Named "Rushbridge"at times.]
J. L. Rusbridge, residence, frame: $300.
Mrs. Hernaman, residence, frame: $100.
Mr. Lillie, residence, frame: $250.
James Allen, residence, frame: $350.
I. N. Randall, residence, frame: $1,000.
Geo. Martin, residence, frame: $200.
Northrup, residence, frame: $500.
Lee, warehouse, frame: $100.
C. A. Austin, paint shop, frame: $100.
J. Ex Saint, residence, frame: $700.
J. E. Platter, addition, residence, frame: $600.
J. Wade McDonald, addition, residence, frame: $300.
J. C. Fuller, addition, residence, frame: $150.
Note: Will never be sure which is correct: Rusbridge or Rushbridge.MAW
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
[This issue listed Courier advertisers.]
WEBB, L. J., has acquired a wide reputation as a lawyer. Having a quick,active intellect, he sees instantly all the points of his case, and beingthoroughly acquainted with practice in the courts, he uses his points atthe right time and to the best advantage. Few lawyers, if any, are moreuniformly successful.
[ATTORNEY CARDS. (WINFIELD)]
Winfield Courier, January 2, 1879.
LELAND J. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW, WINFIELD, KANSAS. OFFICE UPSTAIRS, ROOM1, IN BAHNTGE BROS. BUILDING, CORNER MAIN STREET AND NINTH AVENUE.
Another occupant in Page Building...
LISTED AMONG ADVERTISERS:
J. T. WESTON. HARDWARE, STOVE AND TIN STORE. Main Street, Winfield.
In the Page Building.
Winfield Courier, May 1, 1879
We would call attention to the new law card of Graham & Webb. Thiswill make a strong legal firm. Judge Graham has for six years occupied thebench of the Atchison judicial district and is well known as an accomplishedjurist. Mr. Webb is too well known as one of the brightest attorneys ofthe southwest to require any notice from us.
AD: R. S. GRAHAM./L. J. WEBB
ATTORNEYS AT LAW, Winfield, Kansas. Office upstairs, Room 1, in BahntgeBrros. building, corner Main street and 10th avenue.
Winfield Courier, July 3, 1879.
Mrs. L. J. Webb is visiting in Wichita. L. J. Webb is building a neatresidence on Howland's land, 12th avenue.
Winfield Courier, July 17, 1879.
Messrs. Graham & Webb have dissolved partnership. Mr. Webb continuesthe business in room No. 3, Bahntge building.
Winfield Courier, July 17, 1879.
Gilbert & Jarvis and L. J. Webb have exchanged offices. Mr. Webbnow occupies room No. 3 and Gilbert & Jarvis room No. 1 in the Bahntgeblock.
Winfield Courier, July 24, 1879.
The notorious sneak thief who stole a brand new pair of gloves out ofL. J. Webb's office, belonging to A. B. Taylor, will confer a favor by returningthe same. He will also have the pleasure of listening to a very interestinglecture for which no charge will be made.
[DISTRICT COURT CALENDAR - AUGUST TERM.]
Winfield Courier, August 21, 1879.
DEFENDANT LAWYER(S)
SECOND DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
Patrick Harkins L. J. Webb
vs.
David F. Edmonds Hackney & McDonald
James C. Topliff Hackney & McDonald
vs.
Patrick Harkins Webb and Pryor & Pryor
T. H. Barrett Black and Webb
vs.
Wm. Parr, adm'r. Hackney & McDonald
W. H. H. Maris Pyburn and Boyer, Jennings &
vs. Buckman.
T. W. Gant, et. al. Pryor & Pryor, Webb.
THIRD DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
R. C. Haywood C. R. Mitchell
vs.
Matt. Chambers, et. al. Hackney & McDonald
Nancy Rogers L. J. Webb, Pryor & Pryor
vs.
O. M. Boyle Hackney & McDonald
M. L. Read Hackney & McDonald
vs.
Phillip Sipe L. J. Webb
Richard L. Walker Coldwell & Coldwell, Webb
vs.
Charles L. Harter Hackney & McDonald and
Torrance.
SIXTH DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
W. H. Gould L. J. Webb
vs.
Wm. J. Hodges C. H. Payson
EIGHTH DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
David Hitchco*ck L. J. Webb
vs.
Elizabeth Dever, et. al. Alexander, H. & McD.
NINTH DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
S. Frazee L. J. Webb
vs.
John Frazee
John Smiley L. J. Webb
vs.
Harry Bahntge Jennings & Buckman
TENTH DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
S. Weil L. J. Webb
vs.
August Kadau J. M. Alexander
Carson, Peoria & Co. Torrance & Asp
vs.
John W. Johnston L. J. Webb
[ATTORNEY CARDS.]
Winfield Courier, August 28, 1879.
LELAND J. WEBB, Office upstairs, Room 3, in Bahntge Bros. building,
corner Main street and 10th avenue.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.
L. J. Webb moved into his new brick home, east of town, Monday.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.
O. M. Seward is visiting his father, at Keene, Ohio. During his absence,Mr. Webb is acting city attorney.
Winfield Courier, September 18, 1879.
Ye local had the pleasure of a ride behind L. J. Webb's roadsters, lastSaturday evening, taking in the depot, railroad bridge, and Bliss mill inthe rounds. The south pier of the railroad bridge will be finished by Wednesday,when both gangs will be put on the north pier, and will be worked nightand day until it is completed. Mr. Lewis, the contractor, informed us thathe intended to have the piers ready for the bridge by the 27th.
[A connection to Shenneman.]...
Winfield Courier, October 23, 1879.
The Telegram, of yesterday morning, finally came out with itsbatch of full-blown lies, such as it had intimated by its insinuations beingmanufactured against Shenneman. After stating the lies without the leastevidence in proof, the Telegram has the cheek to say: "Ifthey are not true, let Shenneman and his friends go to Troup, Walker, Webb,or Hackney, and get their affidavits to the contrary." That is theirgame. If they charge that Shenneman sometime stole a sheep or robbed a hen-roost,they expect it to be believed unless he comes forward and performs an impossibilityfor any man by proving he never did such a thing. Never mind. You will seeaffidavits enough, and your timid, namby-pamby, money-getting candidatewill be somewhat shown up too, because of going into this contemptible modeof
electioneering.
[Article does not clarify which Webb.]...but L. J. liked to huntin Territory.
Winfield Courier, November 6, 1879.
Mr. Charles Steuven is lying at Arkansas City, in a very critical condition.While hunting in the Territory he was taken down by pneumonia, and was broughtto the city by Mr. Webb. At last reports he was some better, and likelyto recover.
Winfield Courier, December 4, 1879.
Judge W. C. Webb, father of L. J. Webb, was down from Topeka last week.
Winfield Courier, January 29, 1880.
L. J. Webb has been appointed A. A. D. C., on Gen. Green's staff.
[REPORT FROM "L. J. N." AT NORTH RICHLAND.]
Winfield Courier, February 5, 1880.
We can hear the whistle of the engine on the east and west railroad everyday.
A law suit has just closed before N. J. Larkin between J. W. Meador andJohn Stalter. Warner was attorney for Meador and L. J. Webb for Stalter.The defendant, not being satisfied with the decision, appealed to the DistrictCourt.
Winfield Courier, February 19, 1880.
We have received instructions from the Land Office that a party desiringto enter land may take the evidence of his witnesses, and his own testimony,before a Notary Public, by stating in his publication notice the officerbefore whom, and the day when, he will appear with his witnesses. We arefully prepared to transact all business in this line.
LOWELL H. WEBB, Notary Public.
Winfield Courier, February 26, 1880.
Leland J. Webb has succeeded in securing $705 back pension and $8 permonth for life, to Mr. Jacob Haynes, of Maple township. Mr. Haynes is aworthy citizen, and came near losing his life fighting for the old flag.
Winfield Courier, February 26, 1880.
"We would like to speak of each and every one of the charactersin the 'Spy' could we spare the space, as all deserve mention. Leland J.Webb as 'Albert Morton,' D. L. Kretsinger as 'Charles Morton,' Bert Covertas 'Uncle Tom,' George Buckman as 'Farmer Morton,' Master George Black as'Little Willie,' and J. E. Conklin as 'Col. Orr,' deserve special mention.Miss Florence Beeny as 'Mrs. Morton' did splendidly; Miss Emma Himbaughas 'Nelly,' was a general favorite; and Miss Jennie Hane, as 'Mrs. AnnaMorton' looked the perfect picture of a brave and loyal farmer's wife."
Winfield Courier, March 18, 1880.
Tuesday morning county attorney Torrance and L. J. Webb returned fromRock township where they have been trying the parties engaged in the schoolhouse riot which occurred in district 72 last January. Five of the parties,Jno. Bailey, Abram Brown, Jno. Chitwood, Dero Meader, and Ithinor Saunderswere convicted and fined one cent and costs, amounting in all to fifty dollars.The trouble occurred over the division of the district and the attempt ofthe above named parties to move the school house against the wishes of thedirectors.
Winfield Courier, May 13, 1880.
In the case of Tarrant vs. Hitchco*ck for the possession of the propertynext to the Williams House, judgment was rendered in favor of the defendant.Leland J. Webb was the attorney for the defense, and conducted the caseto a successful termination.
[Judge Webb offers to help Millington, Allison, and Greer oversuit with Judge W. C. Campbell.]...
[STATE SQUIBS.]
Winfield Courier, June 3, 1880.
Hon. W. C. Webb does not believe in muzzling the press. The followingdispatch shows where he stands. TOPEKA, KS., MAY 19.
TO D. A. MILLINGTON AND WM. M. ALLISON, WINFIELD:
Such services as I can render you on your appeal in the contempt casesare freely offered. Command me at your pleasure. W. C. WEBB.
Winfield Courier, June 3, 1880.
Messrs. Brush, Webb, and Black have returned from Topeka, where theywent in relation to the contempt cases.
Winfield Courier, June 3, 1880.
Hon. W. C. Webb, whose ability as a lawyer is second to no one in theState, has prepared a book on Kansas Pleading and Practice, whichwill soon be published and will be valuable to the legal fraternity.
Winfield Courier, June 3, 1880.
Commonwealth: Hon. Charles C. Black, one of Winfield's brightest attorneys,has been in the city for two or three days. He is associated with Messrs.Webb and Brush in the Allison-Millington contempt case before the SupremeCourt. The Winfield editors seem to be sustained by the Winfield bar intheir contest with Judge Campbell.
[Greer and L. J. Webb's brother, Lovell H. Webb, had rapport.]...
[YOUNG MEN'S REPUBLICAN CLUB.]
Winfield Courier, June 17, 1880.
A large number of the young Republicans of Winfield met in the COURIERoffice Monday, and completed the organization of a Young Men's Republicanclub. Roland Conklin was elected president, D. L. Kretsinger and W. H. Wilsonvice-presidents, W. A. Smith, secretary, and Taylor Fitzgerald, treasurer.Fred C. Hunt, Lovell H. Webb, and Ed. P. Greer were appointed as a committeeto act with the officers of the club in the organization of township clubs.It is earnestly desired that the young Republicans throughout the countyco-operate in the organization of these clubs, so that the county organizationmay be made perfect. The meeting adjourned until Thursday evening, whenthe committees on rules and resolutions will report.
Winfield Courier, July 22, 1880.
Mr. L. J. Webb has disposed of his household furniture, and broken uphousekeepng for the present. Mrs. Webb is east visiting her relatives.
Winfield Courier, August 5, 1880.
At the Primary Republican Meeting held in Walnut township last FridayJ. C. Roberts was elected chairman, and L. J. Webb, Secretary. John H. Morganwas elected a member of the County Republican Central Committee. J. C. Roberts,T. A. Blanchard, and Robert Weekly were elected a township Republican Committee.
Winfield Courier, August 19, 1880.
Supt. Lemmon has gone to the northwestern part of the state on his finaltrip visiting normal institutes. The remainder of his official term willbe largely devoted to the prepara-tion of his forthcoming biennial report.Most of this work will be done here. When down last week he rented the residenceof L. J. Webb, Esq., east of the city and will occupy the same until hisown house on Ninth Avenue is vacated, enlarged, and repaired.
[Do not know if Mrs. E. J. Page, of Canada, was or was not spouseof Jay Page.
Jay Page's mother was H. L. Page of Milwaukee.]
[BEAVER SCINTILLATIONS: NAME OF CORRESPONDENT NOT GIVEN.]
Winfield Courier, July 15, 1880.
REPORTER MENTIONS BEING A STUDENT AT MANHATTAN...NOW HOME FOR THE SUMMER.
Mrs. E. J. Page, of Canada, has been with us the past three weeks, visitingrelatives and friends in Winfield, Arkansas City, and the country, and lookingafter her large property interests in this county.
[Page Building: where murder took place.]
Winfield Courier, August 5, 1880.
Messrs. Hendricks & Wilson have rented the Page building, and willmove their stock of hardware as soon as the Roland stock can be removed.
[NOTICE: L. J. WEBB.]
Winfield Courier, September 30, 1880.
All my land office business is in the hands of Gen. A. H. Green, RealEstate Agent, who will attend to it. I shall be at home in time to attendto business in the District Court.
Winfield Courier, November 11, 1880.
L. J. Webb came down from Topeka to save his vote.
Winfield Courier, November 25, 1880.
Trial docket for December term, commencing on the first Monday (6th day)of December, A. D. 1880:
THIRD DAY - CIVIL DOCKET.
Appling & Burnet vs. Leland J. Webb et al.
Winfield Courier, December 9, 1880.
Leland J. Webb came down Monday to attend court. Mrs. Webb accompaniedhim. When he returns he will take his household goods with him and willhereafter make his home in Topeka. He has formed a partnership with hisfather, Judge W. C. Webb, and will hereafter practice law at the capital.
[Leland J. Webb's brother, remained in Winfield.]...
Winfield Courier, December 16, 1880.
G. W. Rogers was on Tuesday brought before U. S. Commissioner LovellH. Webb, charged with selling liquor without government license. The examinationwas continued to Jan. 21, 1881.
[Sister of Leland J. Webb, now Mrs. R. L. Walker, visits herfather and brother.]...a wee bit confusing. Her father would be Judge Webb,she could be visiting her younger brother, Lovell H. Webb, and perhaps theJudge was here also.]
Winfield Courier, January 6, 1881.
Mrs. R. L. Walker, of Wichita, is in the city visiting her father andbrother. Mrs. Walker (formerly Miss Sadie Webb), resided in Topeka severalyears, and has many friends here.
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1881.
The complaint against Geo. W. Rogers before Commissioner Webb last Fridaywas dismissed by District Attorney Hallowell as not having sufficient evidenceand importance to warrant his being held for trial.
[PETITION: LOVELL H. WEBB, JUSTICE OF THE PEACE.]
Winfield Courier, January 27, 1881.
A petition has been forwarded to Gov. St. John signed by members of thebar annd many leading citizens asking for the appointment of Lovell H. Webbas Justice of the Peace to the vacancy caused by the resignation of JusticeBuckman. We can heartily endorse Lovell. He is one of our brightest youngmen and has natural qualifications which fit him for the position.
Winfield Courier, February 17, 1881.
Linus Webb is located at McPherson in the loan and land business andis doing well.
Winfield Courier, February 17, 1881.
Lovell Webb, Esq., of Winfield, a thoroughbred young lawyer, son of Hon.W. C. Webb, of this city, arrived this morning and will remain in Topekaa few days. Topeka Capital.
Winfield Courier, March 17, 1881.
Lovell H. Webb will be a candidate for city attorney at the spring election.We hope Lovell will be elected. He is a rising young attorney and is wellqualified to fill the position. It looks now as if he would have no opposition.
Cowley County Courant, November 17, 1881.
L. H. WEBB, ATTORNEY AT LAW. Office over Read's bank, Winfield.
Believe this was Leland J. Webb's brother...
Cowley County Courant, November 24, 1881.
The many friends of Linus Webb in this city will be pleased to learnthat he was elected County Attorney of Rawlins County at the late election.
Kay picked up the following information concerning L. H. Webb...
May 19, 1902. George W. Miller was arrested for the Murder of GeorgeMontgomery by constable Cal Ferguson. His hearing was set for May 29 beforeJudge L. H. Webb.
[Note: It appears that Lovell H. Webb became known by 1902 asJudge L. H. Webb.
Another brother, Linus S. Webb, was also located in Cowley County.MAW]
[COURANT EDITOR PAYS A VISIT TO DISTRICT COURT, WINFIELD.]
Cowley County Courant, November 24, 1881.
We paid a visit to the District Court Thursday, with a view of takingin the situation so far as possible, and to see if District Court is thesame in Cowley County now as it was in 1872, when our city was in embryo,and the brilliant attorneys and learned judges of today occupied about thesame positions on the stage of life. On entering the room, many familiarfaces, and more strange ones, turned toward us as if to say: "Wonderif he expects justice here!"
George Haywood was being tried for forgery. Judge Torrance sat in hiscushioned chair, with a contented look on his beaming face, which wouldassure anyone that he was the boss, and proposed to run that shop. SheriffShenneman was looking extremely wise, and wore a satisfied smile on accountof having two years more to rustle for criminals. Knight was taking downthe questions and answers, so as to be able to furnish a transcript forthe Supreme Court, and get $75 or $100 from the defendant, who would receivein return about ten years in the penitentiary.
Frank Jennings, who would rather succeed in convicting a man then togo home to his family before ten o'clock at night, was asking all mannerof questions of an Arkansas City banker, who was so unfortunate as to payout $500 last May on a forged draft, and Henry Asp set to his side yelling,"We object" to every question, and would then turn and look JoeHuston uneasily in the face until the court would remark, "Objectionoverruled."
In fact, everything seemed different from the good old days of yore,and we imagined there would have been more merriment in the proceedingshad R. B. Saffold and L. J. Webb been there, throwing law books across theroom at each other, Judge Campbell leaning back utterly indifferent, gnawinga musty hunk of dried buffalo meat, and Sheriff Parker dodging around underthe tables like a cat shot in the eye with a paper wad. In the good olddays of these kind of court proceedings, there were no strings around thelawyers nor rocks suspended to the court's coat-tail, and everyone seemedto enjoy himself, no matter how many cases he had in court.
Then Torrance, a smooth faced lad, gave but little thought of anythingsave the day when he would get sufficient funds to send back east for hisfirst love.
Fairbank's only pride was to prepare a neat little talk for his Sundayschool, held at 9 o'clock every Sabbath morning in the little white churchon Ninth Avenue, which now supports a boarding house sign.
Wirt Walton cared only to get on his soldier jacket and talk about theswimming times he would have among the country lasses when elected Countysurveyor.
Allison kept an eye peeled on his Tisdale girl like a youth who had trustedhumanity once too often, and been everlastingly and unanimously left.
Billy Anderson would work hard all day in the lumber yard, and then atdusk, tuck the robes around his sweetness in a four dollar a day buggy,and skip out for Thomasville to a dance.
Judge Campbell would tell a lawyer to sit down, in the middle of a carefullystudied and written speech, because the verdict of the court had been renderedbefore the argument began.
A jury would retire to the rear end of Triplett's saloon, order a bucketof beer, and return a verdict of "not guilty" by ten o'clock nextmorning.
Jim Kelly, then editor of the Courier and Clerk of the court,would work in the courtroom all day and then sit up till midnight pouringover his exchanges, trying to get a few pointers from which to write a handsomenotice of the birth of a cross-eyed infant.
Father Millington was holding justice court in the front end of Fuller'slittle frame bank, and would tax up the cost with as much coolness as henow writes column after column of editorial matter on the grand jury system,five days after it is too late for the article to be of any good.
T. H. Johnson was about the only man in town who was really paying strictattention to business, and the way he would stick to the claim jumper untilhe got his last nickel as a retainer, would shock the modesty of a morecheeky demagogue than Gov. St. John.
But he is gone as well as many other shining lights of that day, andwhile only about half of the free and happy boys of then have raised towealth and prominence, with chubby babies growing up to call them blessed,Winfield has become a live little city indeed, and hundreds of energeticcitizens, who can never know the trial and pleasures of the early settlers,have made their homes here, and all join hands in the good work of pushingahead, until death shall call us to that celestial shore from which no trampprinter returns.
Cowley County Courant, December 22, 1881.
Mr. S. L. Gilbert, a loan agent in this city who has resided here forseveral years, the senior member of the firm of Gilbert, Jarvis and Co.,has been arrested and held to bail in the sum of $100, to appear beforeU. S. Commissioner Webb of this city, and answer to the charge of havingopened a letter belonging to the latter named firm after its dissolution.The action was brought upon the complaint of J. H. Finch at the instigationof Mr. S. M. Jarvis, of Kansas City, and will come up for hearing on the22nd of this month. Gilbert claims the letter in requisition was writtento him as a personal and was so answered, which he hopes to establish tothe satisfaction of the court and everybody else.
Winfield Courier, July 31, 1884.
Leland J. Webb has been appointed Major General Commanding of the Sonsof Veterans of Kansas.
I got the microfilm for Wichita Eagle (Weekly) Aug. 22, 1878-Sept. 15,1881. Put what little information I got in date order already. [Did notpursue paper much for further articles. Very hard to read: must have usedvery thin paper in those days!]
Checked a Topeka Newspaper called "The Commonwealth." Reallynothing about Webb-Page Trial. But I found some interesting items, whichI put in file labeled "Descriptions Various Items" as the descriptionsused in some instances were quite interesting. Did not go very far withnewspaper as it basically covered European news, State Politics, and Indianscares in that time era.
MAW August 3, 1999
Latest news (9/8/99)
Am awaiting a clipping from Janel Hutchinson stating that LelandJ. Webb committed suicide via cocaine circa February 3, 1893.
The trial was held in Wichita, Kansas, beginning Tuesday, September 10,1878, and according to the Wichita Eagle, September 19, 1878, tookabout ten days. The jury returned a verdict of "not guilty" onThursday, September 19, 1878.
The attorneys retained for the defense in the Webb trial were Judge W.C. Webb, of Topeka; E. S. Torrance, Coldwell & Coldwell, and C. C. Black,of Winfield; H. G. Webb, of Oswego, James D. Snoddy, of Linn County; andSluss & Hatton, of Wichita.
The attorneys for the proecution were James McDermott, county attorneyof Cowley County, assisted by W. E. Stanley, Sedgwick County's attorney.
The paper did not clarify who the presiding Judge was in this case. Asa general rule, Judge W. P. Campbell presided, but I am not certain thathe did in this trial.
