The Courant last week gave a short and hurried account of the disastrous fire, which the night of the 24th destroyed Elk County's fine $40,000 court house. Following are some additional paragraphs on the conflagration:

Who saw the first first? Louis Hamar says when he was going home he saw flames in the Surveyor's office. He was alone and saw nobody around. He fired off his pistol and yelled fire. He says the first men he saw were Mark McBee and Charley Chase, who were there almost at once. The Citizen publishes it that Lillian McBee first saw the fire and that her father, Mark McBee gave the alarm.

           The insurance on the court house was as follows:


     German American, H.G. Zirn, local agent........................$4,000
     National of Hartford, G. J. Sharp, local agent................. 2,000
     Connecticut Fire, H.E. Hubbell................................. 2,000
     American Central...................do.......................... 2,000
     Hartford of Hartford, G. K. Reid............................... 2,000
     Com. Union of London...............do.......................... 2,000
     Phenix of B........................do.......................... 2,000
     Ins. Co. of N. H...................do.......................... 2,000
     Liverpool, L. & G..................do.......................... 2,000

                  Total amount of Insurance....................... $20,000

The records in the office of the register of deed suffered very little. They were all in the big safe and vault, and were not damaged. When the vault was opened after the masonry had somewhat cooled, it was found the fire had broken through in two places, and all that saved it was probably the water thrown on it by the engine when the building was almost entirely burned down.

The records of the treasurer and clerk wre not damaged and their vault, a two compartment vault built together, furnished full protection. Some expensive office fixtures, an adding machine and so forth, were destroyed.

Probate Judge C. A. Jewett saved all his records by carrying them out, and it is well he did so, as his vault did not resist the fire, and a lot of old files left therein were destroyed or very badly damaged.

Sheriff Beaty carried his books, papers, and records to a place of safety and lost nothing but the safe and office furniture.

County Surveyor C. F. Osborn is a heavy loser. His office had no vault or safe, and all records and fixtures belonging to the county were destroyed. Not a map, record, plat, book, field notes or anything was saved. The instruments and apparatus were mostly the private property of Mr. Osborn and it is a serious loss to him. He had plats, maps, blue prints and negatives for all the work he has done for the six years he has been in office, and it is impossible to place a value on them. It would cost thousands of dollars to reproduce them.

The county superintendent had a safe full of records and papers which are probably all right, but many of files of the office were burned up, besides a lot of his personal effects, fine typewriter, books, etc.

The county attorney missed it, as he did not keep office at the court house, but at his own office in the First National Bank building.

The Comissioners have secured rooms in the Howard National Bank building for the county officers, till other arrangements are made. The county treasurer and clerk will together occupy the east room, downstairs. The register of deeds will occupy the downstairs room, east of the north side stairway, recently occupied by Patterson & Sims. The rest of the court house officers will be found upstairs in the rooms formerly occupied by the Citizen office. They will be very crowded, but it is the best that can be done at present.

It was a surprise to most people that the court-house was not insured for more than $20,000. The building and contents would easily have carried twice that amount. And $40,000 would look mighty good to the tax payers just now, with the county officers standing around in the cold and no shelter.

Rev. J. C. Reeve (?), late pastor of the Howard Presbyterian Church had his library and papers stored in the court house, and everything was lost. He had quite an extensive collection of books, the acumulation of a lifetime, and the loss falls on him very heavily.

The heaviest individual loser by the fire was J. Cammie Ross, whose valuable collection of geological specimens etc. were destroyed. This collection was worth many hundreds of dollars, and was probably the finest private collection in the state, representing fifteen years of hard and painstaking work. Marc McBee and others lost valuable collections of Indian and other relics that can never be replaced.

Two of the hardest and most effective fire fighters were Evangelist Pratt and Mr. Brison the singer. They took positions on the roof of the county jail where the heat was the most intense, and the danger the greatest, and worked until all danger was passed.

There was a strong sentiment the night of the fire for a system of water works in Howard. The proposition would have carried by a big majority that night.

The fire boys worked loyally and intelligently and they helped to save the valuable records in the recorder's office and some of the exposed buildings.

The Elk county court house was built in the summer and fall of 1886. Previous to that, the county dads had been located in the old court, first door north of Tom Bruce's store, where the big Burchfield stores now stand. The old court house was turned into a store and was burned down ten or twelve years ago. The first move made for the new court house was by a few business men to Howard headed by Nicholas Momma. There was some local opposition to it, as there was talk of asking the county to vote heavy railroad bonds and it was feared by some that both propositions could not be voted. However, the necessary petition was procured and the board of commissioners on March 1, 1886 considered the same and ordered an election for Tuesday, April 6 (?), 1886 to vote on a proposition to issue $40,000 in 5 per cent bonds to build a new court house, jail and seriff's residence. The campaign was short but vigorous. Local prejudices were prominent, for there was no business argument against the bonds. Level headed men in every township joined heartilly in the campaign in favor of the bonds. Meetings were held in the country school houses and every effot possible was put forth. Union Center, Paw Paw, Howard and Wild Cat gave practically their solid vote for the bonds. (Think of it--Moline lining up for a courthouse at Howard?) Elk Falls, Longton and all the other townships went unanimously against the proposition, except Greenfield, which cast about one third of its vote for the bonds. The total vote on the bonds was 1424. Against the bonds, 1092. Majority for the bonds, 332.

The laying of the cornerstone of the new courthouse was made a public affair and cememonies were conducted by the Masonic Fraternity and Hope Lodge No. 155. (Details of the cememony and who particpated in them have been omitted) In the cornerstone was placed a sealed metallic box containing the following articles: Copies of the Howard Courant and Democrat; and all the other Elk county papers; copy of the dispensation of the Grand Master authorizing Hope Lodge to lay the cornerstone; roll of workmen on the building, roll of county officers, names of members, and officers of Hope Lodge; cards of Howard business men or merchants; roll of members of the Howard Band; a 25-cent silver coin; a Masonic key-stone contributed by T. N. Jones, and other articles and relics. The terrible fire did not touch the corner stone, and it remains as firmlly in the wall as the day it was laid, 20 years ago.

The contract for building the new court house was awarded to J. S. Huntley of Cherryvale, who sub-let the stone work to Geo Steinmetz, Stout & Son, Topeka architects, furnished the plans and specifications. The blue limestone of which the walls were built was quarried near town, and the white stone trimmings were shipped in from Cowley county. The commissioners decided to superintend the construction themselves. The board composed of R. W. M. Roe, H.B. Marshall and Wm. Crooks, and they took turns in bossing the construction, paying themselves $3 a day. This started a scandal and the fun began. All sorts of kicks were organized and the air was full of trouble. The opposition appealed to the courts, the board was enjoined from paying themselves, but they went ahead and paid it just the same. The work of construction was criticized, and knowing once said the walls wouldn't stand five years. Some said everything was costing too much, and that there was a big steal somewhere, while others said it was not coating enough to be any good, and so it went on. But the court house was finished in a few months and the county officers moved into their new home shortly after the first of the year 1887. The commissioners'troubles were prolonged some years, however, finally winding up in the supreme court in their favor. They likely spent more for lawyers fees than all they made out of their $3 a day. The new court house was one of the handsomest and most attractive county court houses in Kansas and was admired and praised by all strangers coming to our city. Still; many people yet contended that it was a cheap, shoddy job and wouldn't last long. And it didn't---when the fire got at it. The fire alarm was sounded at about half past ten, and at exactly eleven the beautiful court house tower went tumbling down into the roaring, seething flames, and the sparks and cinders rolled up in a great cloud of smoke hundred of feet high.

The origin of the fire still remains a mystery. The first ones who discovered the fire say the flames were showing through the windows of the Surveyor's office in the second story, south east corner. The Surveyor had not been in his office since Tuesday morning and the fire was Wednesday night. He left no fire in his office when he went away. The room directly under the Surveyor's office is the Supeintendent's. Supt. Biddinger had not been in his office since Tuesday morning. He sometimes left a low gas fire burning in his grate, and may have done so this time, but nearly everybody who uses grates lets the fire burn indefinitely and it is never considered dangerous. It is impossible to say in which of these offices the fire originated, or just how it started. Revival meetings were being held nightly in the court room, but the meeting had been over and the crowd gone for more than an hour before the fire was discovered.

Submitted by L. Morgan

A young son of Floyd Tindle, living on a farm southwest of Howard, was kicked by a pony last Saturday. The boy, Merle Floyd Tindle, age about 10, had gone to the pasture to catch the pony, and as he did not soon return his mother went to look for him, and found him almost lifeless, lying on the ground, the pony near by. He was brought at once to town, but was dead before the doctor examined him.

It is not known just how the incident happened, but it is believed the pony turned and kicked the boy just as he was about to take hold of his head. The wound was just back of the boy's ear, and the skull was crushed in.

The body was prepared for burial at the Moon Funeral Home and the funeral was held Sunday afternoon. The obituary is published in this paper. The parents and family have the sympathy of all.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Fire which originated in the cream station in the Mill and Elevator at Moline early Sunday morning, resulted in the total destruction of that property with practically all the contents.

It is not known how the fire originated, but the building, a large frame structure, built in U shape, very rapidly succumbed to the flames. A large quantity of grain and baled hay was burned, and considerable other supplies, poultry, etc.

Word was phoned to Howard and the siren on the water tower in this city shrieked out the alarm and roused the whole town.

The Howard responded by sending down the engine and hose and quite a large delegation from our fire department, in addition to many auto loads of men who pitched in and did all they could to keep the fire from spreading to adjacent structures. The succeeded in their efforts, and nothing except the mill, elevator and attached shed were burned.

We have heard no estimate placed on the extent of the loss, but it must have been quite heavy, and only $5,000 insurance was carried.

The plant was owned by a corporation made up largely of farmers, and a dozen or twenty men were interested in it.

The Howard, contingent, made the ten mile run and was at work in only a little over half an hour after the siren was sounded.

Submitted by L. Morgan

The Wyler Packing Plant, which has been operating in the east part of Howard for a number of years, was closed down last week and E. H. Wyler, owner, is advertising a public auction for May 16th, to dispose of the land, buildings, pens, all equipment and supplies on hand, as well as three trucks which have been used in the business.

Mr. Wyler reports that due to ill health and other complications he finds it necessary to take time for medical and surgical attention. He plans to retain his farms and other interests here.

The company has enjoyed a good business during the past and their products were always high class and were distributed over a large territory.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Walter Platz, Elk county pioneer and beloved Howard citizen, will reach his 100th birth anniversary Friday, October 28th. For the past few years he has made his home at Coffeyville, but his heart and interests are still in Howard. At the present time he is being cared for at a nursing home at 514 West 11th, Coffeyville, and his son, Ted Platz, reports that Mr. Platz is in good condition, considering his age.

The members of the family are planning a family dinner at Ted's home, 111 West Third in Coffeyville, at noon on October 30th, and any frinds of his who are interested are invited to attend an open house from 2:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon of October 30th.

Walter D. Platz was born at Millersburg, Ohio on October 28, 1855 and came to Howard in 1889, which he has since called his home. He was always active and useful in many ways, serving his township as trustee for many years. His work as assessor was always perfect and his penmanship, at least until a few months ago, was almost perfect.

All hope Mr. Platz continues to enjoy good health during his remaining time with us and all send congratulations on his reaching his 100th birthday.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Monday afternoon a northbound special bumped into some cars at Fiat, tangling up the south bound accomodation and throwing several cars off the track. This delayed the evening passenger, and it was after midnight before the track could be cleared and the trains were able to come on to Howard, and quite a number of passengers had a dreary, tedious wait of it at the depot.

Mrs. Jacoby was on the accomodation coach and tells us that the special was pushing some cars ahead of the engine and were switching to get off the main line track to let the accomodation by. They had not cleared when the engine of the accomodation struck the cars, completely demolishing a car of baled hay and turning some other cars off the track. Several of the passengers in the coach were quite severely shook up, but none were injured. Mrs. Jacoby was given two pretty severe jolts and feels quite sore in her side as a result of the shaking up.

Submitted by L. Morgan

The building is owned by Dr. G.H. Grimmell and is occupied as his residence. The Doctor was away from home on a professional call, and did not return until after the flames were subdued. Mrs. Grimmell was at home, but did not know of the fire until she heard the alarm from the outside.

The building was insured for $3,000 and the loss will likely exceed that amount. The older part of the structure was built in the early seventies (1870's), and for forty years was used as a hotel, being added to at several different periods.

The Grimmell's saved the greater part of their household effects, and are now temporarily staying at the first house north of that place.

(This article pertains to the same location where the Zimmerman Funeral Home stands today. Zimmerman's Funeral Home burned completely to the ground about 2007, and a new facility was built about a year later)

Submitted by L. Morgan

Frank Morss and Miss Nora Smith were united in marriage in Howard, Kansas on March 17, 1894. The "Golden Anniversary" of this marriage was observed by Mr.and Mrs. Morss last Friday. No special celebration marked the day, but the relatives and many friends from all over the country remembered the occasion by sending gifts, flowers, letters and cards, offering congratulations and best wishes for many more years of happiness and good health.

They have continued to make this community their home during all these years and still reside on the farm northwest of Howard, where both are doing their full part to provide "Food for Victory" for our armed forces, the folks at home and our allies.

Mr and Mrs. Morss raised three children, W. L. Morss of Howard, Mrs. Sylvia Henderson of Harper, and Pfc. Vernon Morss, who is with an ordnance depot company in North Africa.

The entire community and friends from far and near extend congratulations and best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Morss and wish for them many more years together.

Mr. and Mrs. Morss greatly appreciate the thoughtfulness of the many friends for the messages of congratulations and best wishes and extend their sincere thanks to all through the columns of The Courant-Citizen.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Vern Keith Leckliter, 20 years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. B. Leckliter of Howard, has enlisted as a Naval aviation cadet in the United States Naval Reserve and been sworn in at the Kansas City Naval aviation cadet selection board. He was graduated from the Howard high school in 1940 where he was a member of the basketball team, and has attended Kansas Wesleyan university, Salina.

When ordered to active duty, Leckliter will report to the U. S. Navy Pre-Flight school, St. Mary's College, California, for three months of physical conditioning, instruction in Naval essentials, military drill and ground school subjects. After completing this course, he will be sent to one of the Navy's numerous reserve bases for primary flight training.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Special Sale Prices and Featured Attractions Heralds Opening of New Food Market

Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Miller, owners of Cob's Food Market, are announcing the formal opening of their beautiful new store.. In the building recently vacated by the Perkins G. E. store. The inside of the large building has been repaired and redecorated and the latest fixtures, equipment and accessories installed for the convenience in showing the merchandise and the ease in shopping for their patrons.

A full page ad in this issue of The Courant-Citizen tells of some of the special bargains offered this week end, and an invitation for all to drop in and partake of their hospitality and inspect the many attractive displays.

This is one of the finest stores in southeast Kansas and a credit to any metropolitan shopping center.

"Cob" and "Terry" and their force of sales people will be glad to see you and will do their best to make the event enjoyable and profitable for all visitors.
Submitted by L. Morgan

Dr. Berthelsen, well known physician surgeon, who formerly practiced his profession at Moline, has made arrangements to come to Howard to locate. He is well known in this section and all are happy that once again this community will have a medical doctor.

For the present he will be located in the old Dr. R. C. Harner building, just south of the theatre, now owned by Will O. Gibbon.

The news that Dr. Berthelsen was coming to live in Howard and practice medicine became a reality on Monday of this week, and the response to this news was demonstrated in a most unusual manner. When the doctor expressed a desire to start his work in the office building used by the late Dr. R. C. Harner, the citizens realized that this building needed painting and repairing. Several business men relayed this information to the Howard citizens and by 7:00 p.m. that same evening twenty-five men came in work clothes to start the job. So many came that shifts were organized and the renovation started. On Tuesday other volunteers came and again on Tuesday night, and the work will continue until all is in readiness for occupancy. By work, cooperation, and in the finest spirit of good fellowship, Howard is saying, "Welcome to our community, Dr Berthelsen and family. We are so glad to have you and we are ready to help you serve our community We want you to love it as we do."

Submitted by L. Morgan

F. E. Hottinger, who has recently succeeded Dr. Swan as proprietor of the East Side Drug Store has re-arranged the entire stock, added to it with fresh, new drugs and shelf goods and has as neat, clean and attractive a drug store as there is in the county.

Mr. Hottinger is a registered pharmacist of high qualification. He is a graduate from a school of pharmacy, and besides that has passed the examinatin before the State board.

He enjoys the rare distinction of having 33 state certificates as a registered pharmacist. Last year he went to St. Louis and passed the Missouri examination, and was one the the 110 who passed, out of 240 who tried. Mr. Hottinger is a competent drug man all right, and you need not fear out how he can handle your prescription workably and carefully.

He will carry a complete and up-to date stock of everything in drugs, medicines, druggist sundries, toilet goods, stationery, perfumery, etc. He handles the Rexall goods, and all standard proprutary medicines.

Drop in and see Hottinger. If he doesn't have it, he can order it. This doesn't refer to booze, for his store is strictly "dry" as regards unlawful goods.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Sweet will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with open house on Sunday, August 28th, from 2 to 4 p.m., at their home in Grenola, Kansas.

Floyd Sweet and Blanche Morris were married Aug. 25, 1927.

Their children Dwain Sweet of Blackfoot, Idaho, Floyd W. Sweet of Hutchinson, Kansas, John Sweet and Jim Sweet of Grenola, and their families invite all friends and relatives to attend.

There are 11 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter and 3 step grandchildren.

The couple request no gifts.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Marion invited Mr. and Mrs. James Marion for dinner Sunday, September 9th, to celebrate their 58th wedding anniversary, which was September 7th. When Mr. and Mrs. James Marion arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Maurince Marion, they were very much surprised to find the yard full of people and the table loaded with food.

Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Marion Churchman and Terilyn Kuhn of Eureka; Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hare; John and Jean, Mr. and Mrs L. N. Branner, Judy, Janet, Jacqueline, Larry, Jimmie, and Jennifer, Wichita; Mr. and Mrs. Elbert Marion, James, Charley, Bill and Karen,, Yates Center; Mr. and Mrs. Robert Moeror, Richard, Gene, Herbert, and Bobbi of Toronto; Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Schwindt and Joy of Neosho Falls; Mr. and Mrs. Luther Marion, Barbara, Jack and Phyllis of Grenola; Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Churchman of Chase; Margaret Swope, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Marion, Kathy, Nelda and the guests of honor, Mr. and Mrs. James Marion, of Howard.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Ralph E. Dewey, ex-clerk of the Court, hanged himself in his garage at about 11:30 today. He had been indicted for embezzlement of funds as county official, and his trial was to have been begun this afternoon in District Court now in session.

The case has been much discussed, and an auditing company has estimated the shortage, but Mr. Dewey has maintained that he could account for everything, claiming that several thousand dollars in the Moline National Bank at time it was closed would let him out.

Mr. Dewey leaves a wife and two young children in this city, and an aged father and unmarried sister at Berryville, Arkansas. He was about 44 years old.

Ralph E. Dewey, Ex-Clerk of the Court, Ends His Life, Thursday, the 10th, By Hanging

Perhaps no event in the history of Howard created a greater sensation than the report which ran over town last Thursday at noon that Ralph E. Dewey had committed suicide. He was to face prosecution in District Court that afternoon, the jury had been empanelled and the case was called for 1 o'clock. Dewey had been at the court room all forenoon till near 11 o'clock, when he walked out and went to his home in the west part of Howard. His wife was at home, and he asked her to take the car and go up town and get some meat for dinner, and while she was gone he went into the garage and adjusted a rope around his neck, stepped off a chair, hanging himself with his feet almost touching the floor.

Mrs. Dewey on returning from town found a note on the table telling her she would find his body in the garage, directing her to notify G. W. Tilton, the undertaker at Moline, and also telling her she would find his life insurance policies in the dresser drawer. Mrs. Dewey at once called Frank Dobyns on the phone--the Dobyns family live nearby, but in her excitement she could not make herself understood. Mr. Dobyns who was just sitting down to an early dinner, did not respond to her call, but a moment later in looking out of the window, saw Mrs. Dewey running up the street toward his house, so he and Mrs. Dobyns met her and were shown the note. They called J. W. Donnell who also lives next door, and the two men went to the garage and found Ralph hanging, life entirely extinct. They at once phoned the coroner and County Attorney. Mr. Tilton who was in Howard attending court, was also summoned. Dobyns and Donnell had cut the body down before the arrival of the other perties, and it was taken at once to the Moon undertaking parlors and prepared and later in the day was taken to Moline.

The arrest and indictment of Mr. Dewey occurred several months ago, and he at once gave bond and began preparing his defense. His claim was that the shortage in his accounts was mainly owing to the fact that he had deposited office money in the Moline National Bank, which was closed a year ago. An Audit was ordered for his office, and the auditors reported a shortage of $17,000. Later checking reduced the amount to a much lower figure. Mr. Dewey did not appear to be worried over the affair, and apparently was approaching the trial confident of his acquittal. It is believed that the rulings of the District Judge in the case against the bondsmen of Moline National Bank, which was tried last week, discouraged Mr. Dewey, and that he suddenly decided to end it all with suicide.

There has been much discussion of the case, and the real inside of it has not been made public. That there was a shortage is a fact. But that he used all the money himself is not believed by Dewey's friends, who believe firmly that the Moline National Bank failure was responsible for most of the trouble, and that officials of that institution wronged Ralph Dewey deeply, by inducing him to let them have money from his office to tide them over, and then when the crash came, he was swamped in the flood of disaster. Ralph Dewey's friends do not believe he stole the county money, though he undoubtedly handled it in a manner not countenanced by law and the statues.

The funeral was held at Moline, Sunday afternoon, and was perhaps the largest funeral ever held in that city, being attended by hundreds from Howard, and by people from all over the county. Ralph Dewey had many friends.

Note: Further research needs to be done to verify the accuracy of this information.

Submitted by L. Morgan

This week we have the announcement of Laurence M. Turner of Moline for County Attorney. Mr. Turner is a son of Mr. and Mrs. George Turner of Moline, the former who is chairman of the Republican County Central Committee. Laurence Turner was born and raised in Elk County, is a real native son. He is a graduate of the class of '25 of the Moline high school; a graduate of the class of '29 of K. U. School of LIberal Arts, and class of '31 of K. U. Science and Law school; was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, an honorary law fraternity; also Si Sigma Alpha, honorary science.

Mr. Turner has had several criminal cases in the district court and shows an ability as a trial lawyer. He has been practicing law in Moline since June 1931.---Grenola Gazette.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Denying that he stepped from a moving street car and that his wife following him by jumping, J. E. Curtis of Moline, Kan., yesterday gave his version of the accident in which he was bruised and his wife injured near Barr crossing, west of Colorado City, Saturday night, July 16. In the story obtained from witnesses of the accident, it was stated that Mr. and Mrs. Barr alighted while the car was moving.

According to Curtis, who is a ranchman, and who, with his wife and several friends, is camping west of Colorado City, he signaled the car to stop at Barr crossing. When it came to a standstill, he says, he got off, and his wife started to follow. At that moment, he alleges, the car started up and he was tripped to the ground, while his wife fell from the running board of the car and was rendered unconscious.

Mrs. Curtis has been quite ill since the accident, and two physicians, Dr. L. A. Miller of Colorado City and Dr. P. O. Hanford of this city, have been in attendance. According to the husband, yesterday was the first time that she has entirely recovered from her injuries.

Submitted by Lori DeWinkler

Sunday, October 28, 1956, was a happy occasion planned by Mr. and Mrs. Amos Bullington for a "sweet little old lady," Mrs. Ella J. Fooshee, who has been tenderly and comfortably cared for in their home for 18 months. The day brought smiles and cheer to her when groups of relatives and friends came to see her, bringing gifts, flowers, cards, and best wishes for her 99th birthday.

Mrs. Fooshee appreciative of the many things being done for her, was anxious and concerned that every guest enjoy the dainty angel cake, mints and coffee served by Mrs. Irvin Osborn and Mrs. Leslie Wisner. The guest book was signed by all and picture slides were taken during the afternoon.

Mrs. Fooshee seated in her armchair, weighing the pounds to equal her age, her hair iron gray, wore a gold blouse with a purple corsage, and a black cashmere wool brocaded skirt, which she had made by hand, nine years ago for her 90th birthday. She enjoyed opening her packages and her devoted granddaughters read the greeting and messages to her.

All left hoping she would enjoy health and meet and greet them next year at her centennial year.

Guests from out of town were her grandson, Harold Colyer, and wife of Piedmont; her great-granddaughter, Margaret Gragg, of Howard; granddaughters, Mrs. Thelma Fooshee Osborn or Piedmont, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Welch (Irene Fooshee) and two sons of Augusta; Mrs. June Henthorne, niece, and daughter, Mrs. Bessie Lou Dillen, and children, Johnny, Nancy, and Roger, of Winfield; Mr. and Mrs. Chester Miller of Piedmont.

Submitted by L. Morgan

Marsena Colyer was granted a divorce from Curtis J. Colyer.
Court adjourned Saturday until Wednesday.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, October 27, 1927
Chaffin, Indicted and Arrested

E. A. Chaffin, Resident and Manager of the Moline National Bank, Has Been Indicted and Arrested.

The press dispatches have told of the arrest of Ashby Chaffin, and of his being held for a bond of $10,000. Mr. Chaffin left Moline some weeks ago and had engaged in real estate business at Alpine, Texas. It is understood that the Federal grand jury at Wichita recently returned a true bill against Chaffin and some other parties in connection with the affairs of the Moline Natinal Bank which was closed a year ago. The charge against Chaffin is that he made false representations to the Federal Reserve Bank and procured the advance of $40,000, some time before the bank closed. Mr. Chaffin was in Howard Monday, so we have heard. We have also heard that he has arranged for his bond. The trial will come before the U. S. District Court at Fort Scott.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, September 12, 1929
Elk County Sheriff Shoots & Kills Man

Sheriff W. P. Brown of Elk County, working under a straight tip, took Bate Hamar and Harry Leckliter, his deputies and headed off J. D. Ellsworth, suspected of being a booze transporter. It was a short time after dusk, Sunday evening, about 8 o'clock and they stopped Ellsworth's car on the public road 12 miles northwest of Howard. Leckliter covered the suspect with his revolver and told him to consider himself under arrest. Instead of sticking 'em up, Ellsworth reached for Leckliter's gun, pushing it to one side and with the other hand apparently reached for his own gun. The sheriff who was on the other side of the car, beliveing that Ellsworth would quickly begin shooting, fired point blank at his body, and the man fell forward in the car. The men took charge of his pistol, a 38-calibre, large frame gun, and also found about 15 gallons of alcohol and some other liquor in the car.

Ellsworth, who was shot through the body, was brought to Howard and examined by Drs. DePew and Grimmell. They gave him first aid treatment and advised that he be taken to the Wichita hospital. He appeared to be suffering a good deal, and didn't talk much. He died soon after reaching the hospital. The body was brought to Howard on advice of the sheriff at Wichita, but was later sent back to Wichita.

Not much is known of Ellsworth, but he is believed to be about 50 years old, and lived at Latham. He has been in trouble with the law, and is believed to have been regularly in the horse-running business. The El Dorado paper says he lived with his mother, but had a wife and two daughters.

Regrettable as the affair is, everybody believes Sheriff Brown acted entirely with his reasonable rights, and that had he not fired, Ellsworth would have begun using his own gun, and that he might have killed one or more of the officers. A man with an auto load of booze and a big loaded revolver is not a safe man for an official to parley with.

No inquest has as yet been held.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, August 6, 1936
Frank Webb Estate

Probably never in the history of Elk County has a will for the sum of a half-million dollars been offered for probate, as in the case of that of Frank Webb, deceased, which was probated last Monday by Miss Irene Walker and Clifford Sullivan, attorney of Howard, who are named as executors serving without bond. By law as well as by will the widow Mrs. Clara Webb receives one half. With the exception of $5,000 to M.E. Church at Moline, the remaining is divided between members of his family and a few favorite workmen who have been with Mr. Webb for many years. The exact amount is the estate is not as yet known, the estimate is placed at a half-million.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, March 18, 1937
Gotobed's 50th Anniversary

Married at Rockford, Illinois, March 17, 1887, Miss Annie E. Price of Rockford and Mr. George Gotobed of Rock Island.

The above notice is an annoucement of a wedding solemnized fifty years ago. It refers, of course, to George Gotobed, our Howard Theatre man and his wife, who came to this vicinity in 1902 and for the first twelve years, lived on a farm in rural Howard. Since that time, this city has been their home. Mrs. Gotobed's health has been extremely delicate for some years. It is therefore a pleasure to record that she is much improved at this time, and able to receive the fellcitations of her friends and enjoy the celebrational dinner prepared by her relatives and served in her own home. The couple were remembered with many beautiful floral gifts, among them a stately pot of hydrangeas presented by the Presbyterian Ladies Auxiliary, of which Mrs. Gotobed is a member. Mr. Gotobed tells reporter that he is the third brother of his family to reach the fifty-year anniversary of their marriages, in itself a rather remarkable occurrence, and quite incidentally he said "though never great on celebrations" he was grateful that he and his wife had been permitted to spend fifty years of life together. Mrs. Holly Miller is the only child of this marriage. She and her husband and children, who also live in Howard, arranged the dinner. Besides the flowers, the table was adorned with one of the finest golden decorated cakes, it has been our lot to see and to taste. Guests at the dinner were: Mr. and Mrs. George Gotobed, Mr and Mrs. Holly M Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Elwood Miller (grandson), Agnes Miller and Helen Miller, (granddaughters), Mr. and Mrs. George Atkinson, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Atkinson, Moline, and Mr. and Mrs. Rensom Moffitt, Howard.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant-Citizen, June 16, 1955
Grand Opening Of Toot's Drive-In at Howard

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Giesy and children of the Moline community have opened up a new refreshment parlor at the east edge of the Jackson block, bordering on Highway 99. They have named it "Toot's Drive-In," and will have their formal opening Friday, June 17th, when free cones will be served to all from noon until 4:00 p.m. They feature malts, shakes, sundaes, pop, hot dogs, and tavern burgers. They urge you to attend their opening and will be glad to serve you often.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant-Citizen, August 31, 1944
Lyster Family Gathering

Sunday, August 20th, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Lyster of northeast of Howard entertained with a family gathering in honor of Capt. Gale Lyster, who just returned home from overseas duty. A cafeteria dinner was served at the noon hour and a very happy day it was to have Gale back after 14 months of overseas combat duty. Also T/Sgt. Howard Dobson and family of Gruber, Oklahoma were able to get a 3-day pass and be here for the day. Capt. Lyster and T/Sgt. Dobson are cousins and this was the first time they had met in 2 1/2 years.

Those present to enjoy the day were: Capt. and Mrs. Gale Lyster, T/Sgt and Mrs. Howard Dobson and two sons of Gruber, Oklahoma; Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Lyster, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hilyard, Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Henry, daughter and grandson Johnna Lou and Clara Yetta Gragg, all of Severy; Mr. and Mrs. Dale Lyster of Emporia; Mr. and Mrs. Ollie Henry and family of Eureka, Mrs. Guy Lyster and daughter of wichita, Mr. and Mrs. Robt. Dobson, Mr. and Mrs. Norman May and sons, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Lyster.

Capt. Lyster has seen lots of combat duty and had lots of interesting things to tell of his travels. He will be assigned somewhere in the States for farther duty. All departed rejoincing having spent a happy day and wishing both Capt. Lyster and T/Sgt. Dobson the best of luck in the future.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, December 8, 1927
Mayn Birthday Anniversary

A very enjoyable day was spent at the home of Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Mayn, northeast of Howard, on Thursday, December 1st, the occasion being the 75th birthday anniversary of S. H. Mayn and the 13 (?) birthday of Mae Small, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Small of Howard.

At the noon hour the dining table was laden with good things to eat. The centerpiece was a large birthday cake which was decorated with 75 birthday candles. This cake was baked by Mrs. Ella Lewis of Elk Falls. Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Mayn; Mr. and Mrs. I. N. Kling; Mr. and Mrs. Ray Wuchepfenig; Mr. and Mrs. Henry Kling and children, Harold, Alice and Loren; Mr. and Mrs. Sam McGee of Coffeyville; Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Shannon; W. B. Mayn; Mr. and Mrs. Orville Lewis and Lola Bell and Orville; Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Lewis and Loren; Mrs. Ivey (?) Small; Mrs. Ella Lewis; John Lewis; Louise Rose; Mr.and Mrs. Frank Small and Mae; Mr.and Mrs. Finis Small; Mr. and Mrs. Ed Carson; Mr. and Mrs. W. P. Heisler; Mr.and Mrs. Robert Moore; John B. Moore, J. E. Hebb; Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Clark.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, March 24, 1932
Harris'Celebrate Golden Wedding

Tuesday, March 22nd, was the fiftieth anniversary of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. N. G. Harris of this city and relatives and friends made the occasion a day of happiness for these honored citizens. Many visited the Harris home to extend congratulations and the home was beautifully decorated with flowers from relatives and friends. As element of sadness was the illness of Mr. Harris, who has been confined to his bed for several weeks as the result of an automobile accident and complications following. Yet, he was delighted to meet so many of his relatives and friends and all hope that it will prove a stimulant toward his complete recovery.

At noon the family and a few relatives enjoyed a fine dinner at the Harris home. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. N. G. Harris, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Harris, Mrs. Susie Chester of Wichita, Dale Chester of Wichita, Mrs. Bertha Quick of Toronto, Mrs. Jessie Maxey, Mr. and Mrs. Wilford Kissier and Shirley Mae Annabelle Maxey, Mary Maxey or Wichita, Mr. and Mrs. Amos Harris of Kansas City, Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Lankin and sons, Nicholas, Kenneth and Durrant, Forest Allison and William Brown.

Mr. and Mrs. Harris received many gifts from relatives and friends, one being fifty roses from Miss Annabelle Maxaey, which were presented to the women visitors during the day. Mr. Ben Eby presented a large box of flowers to them from the Board of Deacons of the Baptist church.

Rev. and Mrs. Bayles brought them a beautiful potted blooming geranium. A blooming Easter lily was the gift of Forest Allison. During the evening Suzanne Eby played several pleasing violin solos.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, June 13, 1929
DIED IN CHURCH SUNDAY

W. D. Shannon, Succumbed to Heart Failure in the Presbyterian Church, at 11:00 A. M., June 9th.

Last Sunday, just as W. D. Shannon was starting for the stairway to ring the last bell for church services, he was stricken with heart trouble and passed away almost instantly. He had just placed a pitcher of water on the pastor's reading desk and was returned to the rear of the church, and as he was passing where his wife was sitting in the pew, he was seen to hesitate and look down to her with a smile on his face, then sink to the floor. Those standing near, stepped to his side immediately, but it is believed that death was instantaneous.

His son-in-law, Dr. Walter Heisler, was present and when he gave a hasty examination, said he was undoubtedly gone. Dr. Grimmell was quickly summoned and was there in a few minutes, but nothing could be done. The ambulance was called and the body was carried to the undertaking parlor.

Pastor Griggs dismissed the congregation and no morning service was held.

Mr. Shannon had been caretaker of the church many years, and was especially faithful and efficient.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Howard Courant, September 8, 1927
Shannon's 55th Wedding Anniversary

On Thursday, August 25, 1927, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Shannon celebrated their fifty-fifth wedding anniversary. Five years ago, sixty or more of the relatives joined with them in the celebration of their Golden Wedding. This year only a few of the family and relatives could be present. Those present were H. H. Shannon of Longton; Chester Templar and wife (Pearl Shannon) and sons, Woodrow and Floyd of Moline; J. V. Shannon and children, Mary Elizabeth and Jimmie of Indianapolis, Indiana; and C. W. Shannon and wife and children Viola Ruth and Esther Beth of Norman, Oklahoma, and Lavina Rarick of Howard. Thursday was spent at the home in Howard. Friday noon witrh the Templar at Moline and Friday evening with H. H. Shannon at Longton.

Submitted by L. Morgan

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Courant-Citizen, 1976
Oldest Father Found

Father's Day ended the search by the Elk County Cowbelles for the oldest father living in Elk County.

Arthur Dillee. who was 92 years old on June 2, lives on a ranch south of Longton, close to the Chautauqua county line. His nearest neighbor is his only child, Maudine and her husband, Arlie Kaminska, who have a home on the same ranch.

Other close relatives include five grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. Mr. Dillee was born on a farm northeast of Elk Falls and received his formal education in the schools near there. Three years of his married life were spent on a farm near Longton but he did not move to his present home until 1940.

When asked what he attributed to his long life, he answered. "Hard work!" He was forman of the Moffit Ranch near Sun City, Kansas for 30 years and during World War I he was "riding herd" on 6,000 head of cattle in the Strong City area. Although most of his time was spent "in the saddle", he also worked in the oil fields in Oklahoma.

When he was 5 years old He learned to play "checkers", at the age of 7 he was a champion player and even now he gets few challengers as he still wins at his favorite game. He played some baseball and is an avid K C Royals fan.

Mr. Dillee has read many books on all subjects, has never worn glasses but due to recent eye problems he relies on the radio to keep him well-informed on world-wide news and says, "I am not too crazy about television".

Since there have been many Presidents in office during his lifetime, he was asked if he had any favorites. His reply was, "I was a teenager at the time of the Spanish-American War so I'll never forget "Teddy" Roosevelt. I guess Harry S. Truman impressed me, too".

His views on the future of the country are that there ia a great need for changes, especially in the conservation of our natural resources. He feels there will be a gas shortage in the near future unless definite measures are taken soon.

He hasn't completely grown accustomed to a couple of changes in styles, the long hair of the young folks and pants for women, a contrast to the long skirts worn years ago but with a shy bit of humor he said. "I like the ladies pantsuits".

When asked about beards and mustaches for men, he replied, "I like them. You know I grew up in the days when men wore beards". Then with a grin he said. "I grew a lovely beard a few years ago but Maudine made me shave it off!"

The Cowbelles presented Mr. Dillee with fudge and brownies, both made with roast beef. "I will enjoy these. I like "Sweets", was his comment.

To meet a man with Dillee's ability to retain and converse on the knowledge he has accumulated over a span of 92 years, along with his charm and wit, make our visit with him a great pleasure.

By Estellc M. Freeman Father's Day Committee Chairman

Submitted by Freida Wells

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