List of Hunters          List of Hunters
Selected by Captain      Selected by Captain
A.M. Jackson             L. Scott
H.C. Rush                Mark McBee
Oron Steele              Enos Mitchell
Tom Nutall               E.C. Lewis
Robt. Moore, Jr.         Lon Book
Henry Zirn               Chas LaBrant
Tom E. Thompson          Lou Strachan
J.F. Deal                Wm. Davis
Sam Coon                 Lou Flagler
Mark Hostetler           Jas Donnel
Frank Butler             I.N. Cooley
C.L. Kasson              T.F. Cox
John Moore               S.D. Lewis
Wm. Rutherford           Geo. K. Reid
C.L. Clark               Andy Moore
Jim Rodgers              W.D. Taylor
Owen Myers               John Cox
Wm. Heichert             Dr. Bruce
Tom Barackman            Robt. Dunlap
Ed Clark                 Dan Hurst
Oliver Hamilton          W.F. McClintock
Tom Strachan             F. Holmes
George Flagler           Frank Mason
Lew Mason                A. Goepel
Bert Good                A.C. Busby
Andy McDiarmid           P. Mason
Carl Burchfield          Wm. Prentiss
Chas. Williams           Frank Force
Lou Glenn                Dan Harkness
Chas.Hurst               Robt. Moore, Sr.
Joe Jones                Frank Shinn
Jack McBride             Chas Van Orman
Al Frailey               Dr. Hatfield
Wm. Maxey                Lou Hayner
Walter Platz             A.W.Steele

Howard Has Another Incendiary, the Third One in Less Than Thirty-five Days

Howard had another incendiary fire Monday morning, the third one in less than thirty five days. The buildings fired were the two frame additions to the rear of the Welborn House, the same ones that were fired about a month ago. The fire was discovered about 1:20 a.m., but was under too much headway to save the buildings, both burning to the ground. Loss, $250, covered by insurance put on since the last fire. The greatest damage done was to J.Q. Burchfield’s building adjoining the Welborn on the south, and it was only by the hardest kind of work that the building was saved. The rear end of the first building was badly damaged and the tin roof nearly torn off to get at the flames in order to quench them. The damage to the building is close to $500, and to the stock from three to six hundred all covered by insurance. In addition to this, he had three wagons burned, which were standing outside and which the insurance may not cover. The citizens generally worked with a will and deserve praise for their efforts.

It is a terrible condition of affairs to have a fire bug in our midst, and no reasonable conjecture can be made as to who it is. Whether it is some one who is endeavoring to wreak private vengeance on the parties burned out, or whether some one has a mania for setting fires, we are unable to ascertain. If the incendiary is desirous of inflicting personal loss, his efforts from this on will be largely in vain, as our citizens who have been uninsured, have with one accord uninsured or are insuring their property. Mr. McBee having taken insurance on the Welborn since the Red Front fire. We sincerely trust that we have recorded the last incendiary fire in our city.
Submitted by L Morgan

Mrs. Bertha Walworth of Moline died this morning from injuries and burns received a week ago when some gasoline with which she was doing cleaning caught fire and exploded. She was a young woman married but had no children. Her name before her marriage was Bertha Long. She and her husband conducted the Walworth Hotel in Moline.
Submitted by L Morgan

When the fighting was all done and the Civil War was won,
The soldiers went back to their farms and homes.
But it seems while they were gone, lots of damage had been done
So instead of staying, they began to roam.

Out of the mountains and valleys they came, Men with a vision, a past, and a name.
In search of equality, fortune, and fame, The men who founded Elk County.

With their families they went west where they were put to the test
For the country was unsettled and quite wild.
Grass and weeds were horseback tall, hardly any roads at all
And they came with their belongings, wife and child.

They came from the East right after the war
Between the North and South,
they came from afar For those opportunities they were searching for
And found them here in Elk County.

When they reached this countryside and found the land was occupied,
Of course they were beset with consternation.
Osage Indians were around who believed they owned the ground
So the government put them on a reservation.

This country was fertile with grass like a sea,
Abounding with game untamed and free.
With only the occasional sight of a tree,
When the white men first came to Elk County.

They were hardy pioneer stock who worked round the clock
In an effort to provide a better home.
So persistence, sweat, and toil, coupled with the fertile soil
Made it safe for generations yet to come.

They settled on Indian Creek to the Northeast
With deep fertile bottomland and grass for their beasts.
They planted their crops and awaited the feast
That they would grow in Elk County.

They came from many states never knowing what their fate
Would be, but still they knew they had to persevere.
Their efforts were rewarded as their farms and homes they guarded
And they made this country safer every year.

They migrated West and established claims South
toward the Territory as hundreds more came
For the country was rich and easy to tame
By the people who settled Elk County.

When they began to see the bounty in what now is called Elk County,
They stopped and started to put down their roots
Building cabins, barns, and shed--making furniture and beds
Plowing ground, sowing crops, and planting fruit.

The women came with them--their helpmates and wives
They stood by their side as they fought for their lives
To protect health and home brought continual strife,
To the women who came to Elk County.

The women worked really hard making soap and rendering lard
With little thought of recreation
Canning vegetables to eat, making kraut and drying meat
Because that was long before refrigeration.

Now most everybody knew that the proper thing to do
Was to organize a county they decided.
Howard County it became, but in five years they changed the name
And in 1875 it was divided.

It first was Howard County of very large size
But distance and discord led to its demise.
So they cut it in two as a compromise
Into Chautauqua and Elk County.

So Elk County we became and we still go by that name.
We have been around a century and a quarter.
We are pleased to have survived since 1875;
And we're mighty proud of every son and daughter.

So as we drive to every county town-
Howard, Longton, Elk Falls, Moline, and Grenola,
Remember there were many more--at least half a score,
Towns like Busby, Cave Springs, Fiat, and Upola.

These towns are now long gone but their memories linger on
As we contemplate our future and our past
Our people stood the test, we're the brightest and the best
And I have a definite feeling we will last.

So let's thank our predesessors and look back with pride
To those early day settlers who took that long ride
And made it so easy for us to reside
In this heaven that we call Elk County.

Submitted by L Morgan Note: Verbal permission has been given to post this on Genelaogytrails.

At Elk Falls, on the morning of the 5th inst., a fire started from a defective flue and burned S.A. Brown & Co.’s office, together with everything in and near the building. The railroad and express companies also occupied a portion of the building. One car, which stood on the side track, a car load of wheat, flax seed, castor beans, seven or eight hundred dollars in money, besides a lot of express matter, were destroyed. Not even the wearing apparel of the parties sleeping in the building was saved. The inmates narrowly escaped with their lives, not being awakened until by fire falling in their faces. The aggregate loss is probably no less than $6,000, of which S.A.Brown & Co. will sustain about $2,500.
Submitted by L. Morgan

Cave Springs, although only a month old, shows up the following business directory.

Dr. E.H. Long, proprietor of the Springs and the Cave Springs Hotel.
W.R. Adams, groceries and restaurant
E.F. Reser, dry goods, groceries and Post Office
Robert Drake, druggist
Robert Moore, livery and feed stable
W.C. Getty’s, publisher of the Cave Springs Globe
R.W. Rule, real estate and loan agent and notary public.

There are quite a number of new buildings going up and after July 1st, we understand there will be a daily hack line from Howard to Fall River through Cave Springs.
Submitted by L. Morgan

While gliding along it may not be out of place to briefly mention the business now represented in our little city.

Commencing with the attorneys we find but two: Mr. S.B. Oberlender and Mr. E.K. Longley, both bearing a good reputation for integrity and ability. The M.D. fraternity is very well represented; among this class of professional men we find Drs. Cline & Son, P.C. Topping, J.O. Allen, S. Lucas, E.E. Richardson, and A.P. Searcy. We have two hotels, one conducted by John McBee, the other by Warner & Baner. Then we find Mr. C.T. Adams, general dealer in dry goods, Notions, Gorceries, Hardware, Agricultural Implements, etc., Mr. T. Bruce, dry goods, Notions and Groceries, Mr. W.M. Vinson, dry goods and Groceries, Mr. Wm. Strachan, dry goods and Groceries, Mr. J.O. Allen, Notions and Groceries, Mr. P.M. Vinson, Livery and Feed Stable, Mr. S. Lucas, Drugs and Medicines, Mr. J.G. Albright, Tinware, etc., Mr. Thomas Farrell, Wines and Liquors, Mrs. Ema Albright, Photographer, Mr. D.B. Heaton, Wagon and Carriage Maker and Saddler, Messrs. Warner & Throp and Mr. John Miller, Blacksmiths.

In looking over the above list you may be lead to believe that Howard City has now all the business necessary to supply the demand; but such is not the case. Former local difficulties have kept back the growth of the town, while the country, for twenty miles surrounding it, has steadily gained until today it is far better developed and has more and finer improved farms than many counties in which there are large cities Our citizens, merchants included, have also expended a great deal of money in these local fights, and , of course, cannot be expected to carry very large stocks, hence there is a splendid opening here for men with capital. We are safe in saying that , in proportion to the amount of money invested, our merchants sell more goods than those of any other town in the state, notwithstanding the fact that many, even within an hour’s drive of the place, pass here and go where they can find larger stocks and more competition. Again we say that Howard City is one of the best places in the west for men of means and business to embark.
Submitted by L Morgan

Moline Mercantile Total Loss, Harrison’s, DeWaters’ Campbell’s Damaged. Office of Laurence Turner, Dr. Dunshee Destroyed. Several Other Businesses Severely Damaged by Raging Blaze.

One of the most disastrous fires in this section of the country took place at Moline, Tuesday night, April 6th, when raging flames fanned by a strong south wind completely destroyed Moline Mercantile store, and other business houses, leaving in its wake as estimated damage of at least a quarter of a million dollars, which may reach the half- million mark.

The fire which began in the back end of the Moline Mercantile Co., was first discovered about 9 p.m. by Bob Bennett night watchman at Ames Chevolet and Harold McClure. They noticed the blaze through the door and immediately reported the fire. Moline fireman fought frantically to conquer the raging flames, and thought they had the fire under control when a heavy south wind scattered the sparks in all directions, as if trying to laugh at their vain attempts. Soon, half the block was ablaze and completely out of control.

An emergency call went out over the long distance telephone wires and fire departments came in record breaking time from Winfield, Longton, Howard, Sedan, Severy, Eureka, and Independence to lend assistance, in the biggest fire in Moline since 1911. It was reported the blaze could be seen at least 20 miles away. Each town was assigned to different hydrants, three pampers were hooked on, the others receiving pressure from the hydrants.

The whole town, and people for miles and miles around turned out. Some to help remove contents from the burning buildings, and some to gaze helplessly at the scene while sparks danced to the sky, and the cracking of burning wood and the swishing sound of the water from the fireman’s hose mingled with the hysterical shouts of the on-lookers.

As the flames leaped higher and higher this whole town was endangered as sparked flew everywhere and it certainly looked as though the whole block would go. About 11:30 p.m. the wind died down, enabling the firemen to get the flames under control. At noon Wednesday, the Mercantile ruins were still smoldering.

Moline Mercantile, one of the finest and most up to date dry goods and general merchandise wtores in this section was completely destroyed. Harrison Grocery, Campbell’s Bakery and DeWater Drug were hard hit. The equipment in the offices of Laurence Turner, lawyer and Dr. Dunshee, Dentist was practically a total loss. Moline’s Food Market, Horns Grocery, Moline Food Locker received lesser damage caused mostly by water and smoke.

Moline Mercantile loss is estimated at atleast $50,000, but it is reported to be covered by insurance. George Kennetht Ames, manager says he plans to open another store as soon as a building is available. At the present time, he will sell furniture from the Masonic building.

The building which housed the Harrison Grocery and Union Gas Co., was owned by John Thompson who estimate his loss between $3,000 and $4,000.

Harrison Grocery has a permit from the City Council to open for business again in the City Hall.

The Food Locker owned by Roy Snodgrass estimates his loss at $500.00. Some of those who received a heavy loss were only partially covered by insurance.

Laurence M. Turner, Attorney at Law, announces the opening of an office in the Palace Hotel, using the middle entrance on the North. The Bakery will open within the next couple of days.

During the heat of excitement, much of the merchandise that had been carried to the streets was stolen.

High school was dismissed Wednesday morning and all the students helped to remove the debris from the streets and by noon most of the streets were cleared.

One accident was reported, Kenneth Marshall received a bad cut and bruises on his legs while helping to clear the refuse in front of the Mercantile Wednesday morning. He received treatment at Howard.

Moline will ever be grateful for the help given them by out of town fire departments, in fighting the fire and in helping to keep the crowd under control. A fine spirit of co-operation was displayed between the towns represented.

Earl McGlasson, Water Superintendent is to be highly praised for doing a swell job at the station, in keeping the tanks full of water.
Submitted by L Morgan

NAMED BY CAPPER--IMPRESSIVE HISTORY
LONGTON WAS SECOND CITY FOUNDED ALONG THE ELK RIVER

By Lily B. Rozar

Nestled between Elk City and Elk Falls is the second settlement to be established on Elk River. The town was established by the Elk Rapids Town Company in 1870.

The United States government did not approve of the name given the new town. Bearing the name Elk Rapids, it would make the third town within a thirty mile radius using the word “Elk” as part of its name.

To prevent confusion, especially for postal authorities, Herbert Capper was allowed to name the town. Capper was a hardware merchant in the community. Since his parents were from England, he named the new town Longton for their native home.

Herbert Capper was the father of Arthur Capper who became a noted publisher and a United States Senator. The Cappers lived in Longton two years. Arthur was six years old at the time of their residence there.

Longton is a town of impressive history--both factual and legendary. Many of these stories are recorded and the others have been perpetuated by the bench warmers who radiate with intriguing folk lore.

W.C. Hitchens was the first settler in the community. He settled on the east bank of the creek east of Longton. The creek now bears his name--he being the only pioneer who has been honored with a namesake in the form of a beautiful running stream of good water.

Twelve months from the day G. Hoffman, Dr. J.W. Kerr and M. Messick came from Ottawa and pitched their tents in the timber on Hitchen’s Creek -- Longton had grown to twenty- seven buildings and more under construction.

These founders had selected the town site for its beauty; its splendid view of the country and for its excellent farming land all around the town site. Also, the timbered lands were densely covered with black walnut, burr oak, hackberry, etc. Then there was the all important water power afforded by Elk River.

Stand in the main street of Longton today and it is difficult to realize that back in 1881 this quiet little village held supremacy over the other towns in the county-- that they had dreamed of becoming the “Metropolis of Elk County.”

The following editorial, written in 1882 was indicative of the hopes of the citizens: “Longton was started about twelve years ago and has a good school all paid for. There are four religious denominations here, Presbyterian, Baptist, Christian and Methodist and all have a good membership. One of the largest union Sunday Schools in the county meets here and a Masonic lodge of sixty members has one of the first halls in the state. Longton has enjoyed a large trade the past season and is the business metropolis of Elk County--it is the best business point between Winfield and Independence. White and Walker’s cash sales for 1881 were $35,000 and they have taken in $2,450 worth of butter, eggs, chickens, turkeys, apples, onions and potatoes.

They had paid $1,118 to the railroad company for freight the past year. The firm of Camengo took in 40,000 pounds of butter; 20,000 dozen eggs; 15,000 dozen chickens; 600 bushels of onions and an immense amount of other produce last year. This firm has been here one year.”

Despite the optimism of the citizens the lean years began. There was a lack of harmony and cooperation among the city officials. Wrangling between town factions began to mar all prospects of city improvement. Then too, the selection of Howard as county seat was another check to her advancement. There are many interesting, colorful and amusing anecdotes in connection with the history of Longton. The first death in the neighborhood of the present site is a matter of record. John Butcher had located his claim and built a cabin--supposing the location to be out of danger from high water.

The night of July 11, 1869, Butcher was aroused from sleep by the sound of water rippling through his cabin--the water rising at that time to a depth of forty feet in a few hours.

Because of the low ground between the cabin and the upland, it was impossible to escape that way. So, the frightened Butcher quickly decided the only hope was to try to reach a cluster of trees a few rods away and climb upon their branches. He took the two oldest children, his wife with the two youngest and they started to wade through the lake of water to the trees. He reached there safely with his burden, but his wife was not tall enough nor strong enough to hold her babies above water to avoid strangulation. They were drowned.

(Picture of Longton’s First House omitted)

Dr. J.W. Kerr was the first physician. He was an old frontiersman. His wife was an Indian and they had a beautiful daughter of whom he was very proud.

A post office was established in 1870 and he was given the commission as postmaster. The doctor had a curious method of performing official duties, especially in the distribution of the mail.

His custom was to open the mail bag, pour the contents into a small depression in the earthen floor of his drug store. Then he would tell those around to “find their own mail” and each individual would start hunting his own. At one time a letter came and there was no call for it. He first said he would send it to the dead letter office -- then one day a number of people were in the office and saw him open stove door and “consign the message to the flames.”

A.P. Searcy was another pioneer doctor of Longton. He would prescribe quinine and whiskey with an occasional dose of calomel. Needless to say, he was quite popular with all who liked whiskey and it is said that meant the majority.

Dr. Searcy always kept a pack of greyhounds that were trained to run deer. He wore a stove-pipe hat and carried his valuable papers in it. After he became probate judge the hat was the depository of the official documents of that office. Sometimes on a hunt the old plug hat would blow off and frequently marriage licenses and other public documents would be picked up on the prairie.

On the most amusing yarns woven into the history of Longton is the one of the poor, illiterate, but shrewd saloon keeper, He did not keep books, but drew pictures on the walls. If there were several of the same name running on credit he would draw something to distinguish one from the other. For example, a man by the name of Smith who hauled water was represented by the picture of a tank.

He sold a half-interest in the business to a young man who did not like the appearance of the dirty walls. One night he cleaned them thoroughly. The next morning he heard groans and curses instead of the expected approbation.

“What’s wrong,” he asked his partner. “Over one thousand and five hundred dollars in marks has been destroyed,” he answered in disgust.

“Oh well,” he added, “I will charge the accounts back on the wall and leave off the dead-beats. What they owe me I’ll charge to the ones that’ll pay.”

Which he did. One business man said the recharging cost him over fifty dollars.

All towns have their characters from infancy throughout the mellowing preservation of its heritage and antiquity. To Longton came the brave men and women led only by vision and hope. They came in covered wagons drawn by oxen or horses; came seeking new homes in new lands.

They found what they came seeking. They settled and were comfortable. They were happy in their God-made world around them with its animals, trees, flowers and fascinating activities one finds in carefree adventure.

The Kansas settlers were crusaders. Headed by their crusade were the editors--editors who were the embodiment of their drive and force. The editors of Longton down through the years, were no exception. They were men instilled with vision, imagination and humor. Through these gifts they enlightened their citizens and kept them interested in the welfare of their community and the world around them. They served as educators and entertainers.

The editor who made the most constructive contribution to the civic life of Longton was Harry E. Brighton. Mr. Brighton came to Longton in 1924 and lived there until his untimely death in 1942.

He had lived most of his life in Kansas, and spent fifty years in the newspaper business. During the eighteen years he spent as owner, publisher and editor of the Longton News- Reflector, he championed the ideals that make better citizenship. He pulled no punches in his editorial comments on current affairs. With his high ideals and courage to fight, he fostered many projects for his community --the last one was the city hall.

Three months after Mr. Brighton’s death the city hall was dedicated to the memory of their beloved Harry Brighton. They named the building Brighton Hall for their most noted citizen of all times.

Mr Brighton served as mayor of Longton for sixteen years. He was a loyal and active worker in his church and the Masonic lodge. He was one of the most widely and favorably known editors in Kansas. He was a courageous and most influential Republican party member. He served as state representative from Montgomery county in 1908-1911.

Mr. Brighton was active in the Kansas Press Association, and served as president of the Third District Editorial Association. His membership and accomplishments were countless. He was a friend of all and esteemed by many. His counsel along journalistic and political lines was eagerly sought, and willingly he gave of his wisdom. Yes, Longton’s Harry Brighton will long be remembered with haunting tenderness.

Longton strives to carry one the traditions of their founders by providing good schools and churches, and though it has been a struggle, they have managed to stabilize their population of four hundred and nine.

Up until 1956, United States Highway 160 went though the heart of Longton. In those days, though she was thin at the waist, one did not slip through without learning a few fundamentals of taking life easy.

The first impression is a lasting one of quaintness and quietness. Still to be found are some of the first buildings to be erected. In the middle of the three block business sections stands the first home built in the town. It still is in pretty good repair--yet looking a bit weary. Then throughout the little village are to be found other houses which seem to be on the verge of collapse from their weariness.

However, there are many lovely old homes as well as some new homes. The Marion Miller home is the pride of the town. Though built in 1906, it retains its indefinable luster-- inside and out, like silver which has been rubbed for generations. This home is beautifully furnished and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Miller.

(Picture of the Marion Miller Home has been omitted)

While Longton has never had the self-conscious, pulse- stirring air of prosperity, it continues to have an astounding vitality about its area. Chances are, it will always remain as it has for these many years. One likes to think this is true. For, it is little frontier town, such as Longton, which make up the anatomy of our nation’s policies--both political and economical.
Submitted by L. Morgan

The memorial pictured below, (may also be seen on this site by going to the Grace Lawn cemetery photos) in the advertisement of the monument company, is one of the finest tributes a granddaughter could pay to a pioneer family of which she is justly proud. It was recently erected in Grace Lawn cemetery in Howard.

The memorial was purchased by Mrs. Lillian McBee Myers of San Francisco, California through the Willaims Monument Works of Iola, Kansas. It was designed by Fred Steele of the Iola firm.

The "Rock of Ages" granite which was used, tells the story of John and Hannah McBee and their eleven children, making the long trek by ox drawn wagon train from Alabama to Howard, Kansas in helping the winning of the west. The fortitude of this pioneer family and other Elk county pioneers will live for ages to come in this true memorial.

A beautiful large "Rock of Ages" monument was also erected some time ago close by to the memory of Mrs. McBee's father, mother, sister and her husband.

Mrs. Myers has supplied us with the following interesting information concerning her grandparents and their family history, which will be of interest to the many old friends of the family and all who are interest in things that pertained to early days in this city and county and some of the residents thereof.

THE McBEE FAMILY

Before and during the war between the North and South, the McBee family lived in Alabama. John McBee and his eldest son Carrol McBee, served in the Confederate army, leaving the family alone at home on the plantation. Their home was in the direct path of invading Northern armies. Consequently the home was destroyed.

Among the soldiers who stopped to raid the place, there was a young boy about 14 years of age, who in later years, located in Howard and will be remembered by the old timers, Mr. Charles Christey, a blacksmith. My grandmother was very fond of him and when he aspired to be mayor of Howard, she almost took over his campaign. I remember going with her in her buggy, pulled by her trusted old horse, Joke, carrying people living in the outer edge of town to the polls to vote for Charley Christy.

The family departed from Alabama for parts unknown in the year of 1867, Uncle Carrol supervising the movement of stock and wagons. He walked all the way. They came as far as to what is now Lawrence, Kansas, living there that winter, moving in the spring to the southeastern part of Kansas, and settled on Rock creek on what is now known as the Morrow place, 8 1/2 miles northwest of what is now Howard, living on this farm for several years. On arriving and settling on this place, my grandfather prepared to plant a large crop of corn, which yielded abundant crop. The corn was shelled and cobs saved for fuel. Shelled corn by the several wagon loads was taken to the grist mill over in Wilson county, close to Busby, where it was ground into meal.

My grandfather would figure very closely what meal would be needed for his family; the balance he would divide among the other settlers, who were not so fortunate. Everyone killed wild game for meat.

They helped lay out the town site of Howard, moved into town, operated the town's first hotel, the Welborne House. It was located directly west across the main street from the present Howard National Bank building, where the Howard Production Credit Association is now located. It burned down many years ago, with several other buildings of the Burchfield block.

My grandfather and grandmother were married before, each having several children by their first marriages. To this union were born three children, Leta, Mrs. Wm. Crooks; Mark McBee, and a daughter who died while an infant.

Mark McBee had two daughters, Lillian and Bertha, Bertha passing away a few years ago. Lillian makes her home in San Francisco, California. Bertha's daughter, Frances Bardsley, with her son, Mark; daughter Kristan, and granddaughter Cindy, live in Tulsa, Oklahoma.--L.M.M.

Mrs. John McBee, who was Hannah Permelea Potts, was a granddaughter of the Pastor Isaac Potts, chaplain of Washington's army. Gen. George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette made their headquarters at the Potts mansion in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary days. This building is still standing, used as a museum, owned by the American Revolution Historical Society.
Submitted by L. Morgan

On Monday night last, W.H. Sanderson and John Logan, both of this city, had an affray during which Logan cut Sanderson with a pocket knife. The wound is in the lower part of the abdomen and is quite severe and may prove fatal, though the attending surgeon think the chances are in favor of his recovery.

Sanderson is a Kentuckian about 20 years old; he has been here but a short time and has made his home with Mr. H. Baird. He had engaged to work in D.H. Hatton & Son’s drug store and had commenced his duties there on Monday morning.

Logan is a colored boy about 16 years old and has lived in Howard four or five years. He was arrested and taken before Judge Bowen where he waived a preliminary examination and was bound over to appear at the District Court. In default of bail the sheriff took him to Eureka and lodged him in jail.

This is a very deplorable affair. There are several different accounts as to the quarrel and fight which led to the cutting. We have no opinion to express as the facts will all be brought out when the case comes up for trial.
Submitted by L. Morgan

Wm. Strachan owns the oldest mercantile establishment in the city. It was first started by T. Jeff Barnes, sold to Dr. J.O. Allen, who was first Postmaster of Howard, when it flourished north of PawPaw, and when located on the present site, then it came into the possession of the present owner, who keeps dry goods, groceries, hats and caps, boots and shoes, queensware, etc.

C.T. Adams has the next oldest establishment, and he is the second Postmaster of Howard. Mr. Adams carries hardware stoves, dry goods, groceries, boots, and shoes, hats and caps, and notions. He also deals in Agricultural implements.

The McBee House, was built by Parrot & Barnes. The first Landlord was C. McConnihey, the second was John McBee. Then it was kept by Daniel Miles, A. Garner and C.E. Hugg, John McBee again, R. J. Edwards, again by John McBee, and now by C.H. Cannon.

Wm. M. Crooks has the oldest Drug Store. It was started in the building on the corner of Wabash and Washington Avenues, by Frank Boutscheidt. It was sold first to A. Garner, Esq., then to Dr. P.C. Topping, then Dr. Richardson, Dr. S. Lucas, J.R. Hall, and Wm. M. Crooks.

Mr. Crooks carries drugs, notions, tobacco, cigars, etc.

Thomas Bruce commenced business in the room now occupied by Crook’s Drug Store. Then on the removal of Fletcher & Rambo to Elk Falls, he moved into his present location in the stone building adjoining the Court House . He keeps dry goods, groceries, boots and shoes, hats and caps, queensware, hardware and notions. He also keeps a large stock of clothing and deals in Agricultural Implements.

R.M. Duffield keeps the establishment that was started by H.E. Hubbell. His stock consists of dry goods, groceries, hats and caps, boots and shoes, clothing, queensware and notions.

The youngest and largest of our mercantile establishments is the Ek County Store, Momma, McKey & Eby. They commenced building their house in August and they commenced business the second week of October. They carry dry goods, clothing, boots and shoes, queensware , hats and caps, notions, etc. The building is of native sand stone, 25 by 70, cut magnesian (?) limestone and iron front.
(To be Continued)
------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial Joural January 29, 1879
HOWARD

Physicians--P.C. Topping. S. Lucas, I.Cline, T.C. Hutton, J.B. Lewis and J.F.Lewis. There are few places,that can boast of better physicians, and all are doing a fair share of business.

Minister--W. Bristow.

Attorneys--S.B.Oberlender, J.A. Oliphant, J.M. White, Luther Scott, N.R. Cartmell, R.H. Nichols, A.M. BOwen, and Daniel Carr. And for a four year old county, considering their number, they are all doing well.

Submitted by L Morgan

In honor of his 50 years as a barber, there will be an open house for Waldo Gray in the Cox Building on Sunday, Jan. 19, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Those who have frequented his shop have been entertained by hearing his many colorful stories about barbering, coon hunting, and days gone by.

By Betty Watson

Waldo Gray has been cutting hair in Howard since he got out of the service 50 years ago. He likes cutting hair but he admits his true love is coon hunting and it doesn’t take much encouragement to get him to go. There was a time when he had a fine coon hunting mule, as did two of his buddies. They, with the dogs, took hunting very seriously. From time to time coons have been valuable for their pelts, but it really didn’t make any difference, coon hunting was a great thing. Today Waldo still has a “mighty fine” coon dog but no mule.

Waldo learned to cut hair in the navy. He signed up to be a pipe fitter but was told to report to the barber shop instead. He said he tried to explain that he knew nothing about cutting hair, but was told he’d be experienced when the day was over. Through the years he cut the hair of some pretty important people, including Admiral Richard Bird.

The navy provided lots of unique experiences and Waldo remembers the crossing of the equator as an eventful time. He has fond memories of the fun with the pollywogs (sailors before crossing) and the shellbacks (experienced sailors after crossing).

Some years back when the movie “Bad Company” was being filmed at Severy, Waldo had a bit part. It is a time that he recalls with fond memories.

Waldo, the only male barber in Elk county, still gives hair cuts and shaves. He is usually open and there is a fairly steady stream of customers. He says he is “busy enough.” He doesn’t mind not being as busy as when he was younger. Gene Lanning came in for a hair cut and also got a shave. Completing the cut Waldo put shaving lather around Gene’s ears and shaped the hair. That’s something barbers don’t do without asking the customer, said Waldo. These days with AIDS and Hepatitis so prevalent, barbers can’t take the chance of nicking a customer. Gene didn’t really need the shave but he loves the way soothing feeling of a shave with a straight razor. Gene remembers when hair cuts were 25 cents. Waldo said he remembers when steak was 10 cents.

Waldo’s barber shop is furnished with the same barber’s chair his father used before him. In fact, the shop is probably an antique in its self. The theatre type seats for those who wait and other furnishing probably reflect to an area long ago. Shaves are not completely a thing of the past, but Waldo only does about two or three a week -- sometimes not that many.

Barbering isn’t what it used to be. But then Waldo has been cutting hair for 50 years in Elk County. He doesn’t mind that he has some time to spare.
Submitted by L Morgan

Damage Done to the Boston Store, and the G.A.R., W.R.C. and A.O.U.W. Halls Entirely Destroyed.

Monday night between 11:30 and 12:00 p.m. fire was discovered in the second story of the Momma building, the ground floor of which was occupied by the Boston store. The alarm was immediately turned in and quickly responded to by the fire department and scores of citizens, all willing and anxious to be of some assistance in saving property. The losses as nearly as can be estimated, are as follows: Boston store, $2500, fully covered by insurance; Mrs. Dusenberre, $400, partially insured; G.A.R., W.R.C., A.O.U.W. and F.A.M. halls, near $1500, no insurance; N. Momma, damage to building, $1,500, fully insured.

The fire department did excellent work and the saving of the goods and building was greatly due to the efforts of the ladies who did such noble work in doing a man’s work at the pump.

As to the origin, nothing definite is known, but many rumors are afloat, but undoubtedly it originated somewhere on the second floor--how, is unknown.

Many acts of stealing were also observed. We make no comment on this infamous work, the censure of all honest people being sufficient.
Submitted by L Morgan

Just as an old house that has been a happy home for families for many years will finally wear completely out and will have to be demolished- just so were some of the buildings on the main street in Longton, which were demolished this past week.

One of the buildings was a former bank owned and operated by George Amsbury and his son Glen. The vault in this building was still intact and that building was used to house the Elk County Fire Truck. This vault was still standing after the rest of the building came down. It was the last to be taken down.

Years ago, after the bank closed this space was used as a “Sweet Shop” owned and operated by Mark Mortimer who later married Lulu Vaughn Morgridge. This shop was a popular meeting place for the high school girls after school let out. One lady in town remembers when she went to this shop for the first “Eskimo pie,” she had ever eaten and it cost a nickel.

A hardware store was established by Herbert Capper, father of Arthur Capper, in 1871. Later hardware merchants were the Dobbs and Hammocks, Tom Carter, Ed Davis, Carl Ward and George Dame who came in the early 40’s and stayed until his health went bad in 1982. The doors closed at that time and didn’t re-open.

Another building being taken down housed a grocery and general dry goods store owned and operated by George E. Fitzgibbons for many years. After his death in 1931 his son, John, operated the store until his death in 1952.

There was also a grocery store owned by Roy Moore and operated by his son Thame along with a butcher shop owned by Roy Painter.

In one small building was a café owned and operated by Mr. and Mrs. Al Atkinson, some people said they made the best hamburgers ever.

This is a few of the businesses that were housed in these buildings. There were good times, bad times, happy times, sad times. It’s sad to see them go but such is life, nothing lasts forever.
Submitted by L Morgan

Well Preserved Copies of Paper Formerly Published at Cave Springs Owned by Bert Rule

Bert Rule, who lives in Indian Creek in the northeast part of Elk county, was a business visitor in Howard last Saturday and left with us two copies of “The Cave Springs Globe” dated May 3, 1882 and June 14, 1882. These copies are well preserved and had been in the Rule family for many years. Following are some interesting notes taken from these copies:

The Globe was printed at Cave Springs by the Globe Publishing Company. There is no record of The Globe in “History of Kansas Newspapers,” published by the Kansas State Historical Society, so evidently the paper was of short duration.

The City-Business Directory lists the following businesses in the then thriving city:

The Clyde Hotel, Mrs. E.H. Long, proprietress, good sample rooms
S.F. Reser, dry goods, groceries, boots, shoes, hats, caps and notion
Raven croft & Drake, drugs, medicines, dye stuff, paints, oils
R.W. Rule (father of Bert Rule) notary public, real estate, loans and insurance agent
Robert Moore, livery, feed and sale stable
Adam Nyhart, painter
James Milne, broom and feather brush factory
Wm. Koonse, plasterer
Henry Jones, barber, hair dresser, banger
W. Laughlin, carpenter and builder
Solomon Cox, stone mason
Thos. Marts, butcher
E.H. Long, physician and surgeon
H. Valiant, agent Cave Springs Town Company
Mrs. Wm. Koonse, millinery
Mrs. E.F. Reser, hair work
George Olin, billard and pool tables
W.R. Adams, restaurant and grocery

In addition to this list the following also carried advertisements in the paper;

S.W. Mullen, teacher of vocal and instrumental music
Cave Springs-Gould City hackline Robt. Moore & Co., proprietors

The first page contained as interesting story about "The Waters of Cave Springs and Opinions of Those Who Have Been Using the Water."

One of the advertisements read: "Use the Mineral Waters of Cave Springs for the treatment of rheumatism, neuraligia, dispepsia, effections of the liver, diseases of the kidneys, bronchial affections, putrid sore throat, external and internal piles, eresypeius, female complaints in their various forms, and all diseases arising from a diseased condition of the blood, such as salt rheam old and obstinate fever sores, etc."

Among the names mentioned in the personal families: Gen Thompson, county clerk; Mrs. O. Baumgartel, Lu Nave, Frankie Butterfield, the Rules, Wades, etc.

The issue of June 14th also contained a large advertisement telling of a big Fourth of July celebration to be held at the Springs, with "eloquent speakers from abroad, who will address the people from a large projecting rock near the Springs,"with a grand display of fireworks at night.

The latter issue also contains an interesting write-up of Cave Springs and its history, part of which we will print in a later issue of The Courant-Citizen.
Submitted by L Morgan

J.R. Hall, former editor of the Democrat and Citizen, and family left Monday morning for Kendrick, Idaho, where they will make their home in the future. Mr. Hall was one of the first settlers in old Howard county and has lived in Howard for sixteen years. His fair dealing, kindness and pleasant demeanor made him a host of friends and many are the regrets expressed at the loss of so good a citizen. He was our postmaster for over four years and no man ever filled that difficult position who gave more general satisfaction to all the patrons of the office. Mr. Hall took an active interest in building up our town and country, and every legitimate enterprise found him its earnest advocate. Mrs. Hall is a most estimable lady whose departure will be regretted by a host of friends. The CITIZEN joins the entire community in wishing Mr. and Mrs. Hall prosperity in their home in the far West.
Submitted by L. Morgan.

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